On The Bay Spring 2020

SPRING 2020

A Stage Near You Spotlight on local venues

Real Estate & Development How to navigate today’s market

Branching Out Landscaping with trees

onthebaymagazine.com

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IN THIS ISSUE FEATURES 20 The Great Home Search As inventories of resale homes remain low and prices continue to rise, buyers may have to look a little farther afield to find their oasis. Best advice: be patient!

BY EMILY WORTS

20

37 A Developing Story As residential developers eagerly cash in on the growing demand for housing in Southern Georgian Bay – offering a mix of residential types to their new home palette – municipal planners scramble to keep up with development proposals, approvals and site services. Meanwhile, some local citizens are concerned about the sustainability of what they view as rampant building activity, fearing it will impact municipal infrastructures, local traffic, the environment and the character of the communities they love.

BY MARC HUMINILOWYCZ

51 New Homes On The Bay is pleased to present our annual guide to new home developments in Southern Georgian Bay currently at the sales stage.

60 A Stage Near You Our local performing arts venues are the perfect places to take in a show, with topnotch entertainment ranging from live music and theatre to films and festivals.

BY JANET LEES

79 For Art’s Sake Local group envisions a world-class arts and entertainment centre in Collingwood.

BY JUDY ROSS

60

82 From Church Manse to Urban Ranch This former parsonage in Sunnidale has been transformed into a chic home with modern horse-ranch style.

BY JANET LEES

98 Branching Out Everything you need to know about choosing, planting and caring for trees on your property.

BY JUDY ROSS

COLUMNS

DEPARTMENTS 10 12 114 117 125 126

From Our Editor From Our Readers Openings Gallery of Realtors Reader Buying Guide Looking Back

98

Fenceposts

16 A Halfway Henhouse

SPRING 2020

BY DAN NEEDLES A Stage Near You

Artist Spotlight

111 The Essence of Place Kara McIntosh uses vibrant, unexpected colours to evoke abstracted expressions of traditional landscapes.

Spotlight on local venues

Real Estate & Development How to navigate today’s market

Branching Out Landscaping with trees

onthebaymagazine.com

ON THE COVER: Mark Cassius performs in Theatre Collingwood’s “Love Cabaret,” staged at the First Presbyterian Church in February.

PHOTO BY JESSICA CRANDLEMIRE

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INF O R MATIO N A N D R A T E S FOR N A T I ON A L A D V E R T I SE R S Lo r i Fi t zg eral d

l.fitzgerald@zoomermedia.ca

Published by On The Bay Magazine Inc., A subsidiary of ZoomerMedia Limited.

President & CEO Moses Znaimer On The Bay publishes 4 issues per year and is available, free, at 55+ locations in the following communities; Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Nottawa, Craigleith, Thornbury, Clarksburg, Ravenna, Kimberley, Markdale, Meaford, Creemore, Stayner, Glen Huron, Singhampton, Flesherton and Eugenia. The magazine is also distributed to hotels, resorts, developer showrooms, realtor offices, and to members of private ski and golf clubs in the area. For a complete list of the exact locations within each of the communities go to onthebaymagazine.com Subscriptions outside the distribution area are $29.95 per year for 4 issues (including HST), payable by cheque or credit card. No part of On The Bay may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent of On The Bay Magazine Inc. The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or staff of On The Bay Magazine.

Letters to the editor are welcome: readermail@onthebaymagazine.com Publications Mail Agreement No. 40943009 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: On The Bay Magazine Suite 200, 115 Hurontario St., Collingwood, Ontario, L9Y 2L9 Tel: 705-444-9192 Toll-free: 1-888-282-2014 Fax: 705-444-5658 Printed in Canada by Renaissance Printing Inc.

Jane Moysey Broker (705) 888-1982 jane@janemoysey.com

8

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

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FR O M

O UR

E D IT OR

Staying Strong What makes a community?

Is it homes for people to live in?

Relationships with other community members? Coming together to enjoy shared activities and experiences?

Supporting one another when times are tough? I would argue that the best communities boast all of these aspects, and by that measure Southern Georgian Bay has grown ever stronger as a community. But we may be tested in the coming weeks and months.

As this issue went to press, the COVID-19 virus was causing concerns. We had our first diagnosed cases in our area, and many events and activities were being cancelled out of an abundance of caution. Our article in this issue about local arts and culture venues will, we hope, be widely read. Many events at these venues were being cancelled as we went to press, so please check their websites and Facebook pages for updates.

Once things are back to normal, people will want more than ever to get out and enjoy a show, and our wonderful venues will be ready as always to draw the community together.

As a sidebar to our story on local venues, you can read about a grassroots group that wants to build a new state-ofthe-art entertainment facility in Collingwood. This is an exciting prospect and one the whole community can get behind.

Also in this issue of On The Bay, we present our annual roundup of real estate and development throughout our region. There’s no question that more and more people want to live in this four-season paradise, and as a result resale homes remain scarce and a record number of

10

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

new home developments are moving in to fill the gap.

Buyers are having to look farther afield to find a home that fits their needs and budget. Meanwhile, our municipal governments are being called to ensure that our community is affordable for everyone, including service workers, young professionals and working families. Add to that the increased need for infrastructure such as roads (with bike lanes), public transit, schools and hospitals, and it’s clear that we have work to do to ensure that Southern Georgian Bay can sustain the demands of an ever-growing population.

Our hospitals are especially important right now, and we are blessed to have some of the best and most dedicated doctors, nurses and staff on the front lines looking after our health. The best way we can help them help us through this is to maintain ‘social distance,’ limit travel and self-isolate as much as possible.

All of the experts agree that these measures can potentially keep the spread and severity of COVID-19 to a minimum, protect those most vulnerable, and keep our hospitals, healthcare professionals and equipment from being overwhelmed.

These are challenging times, but after 20 years as a proud member of this community, I know we can make it through this newest challenge as a community and come out the other side stronger than ever. Remember that this too shall pass, remember your humanity, and most of all, remember to wash your hands! ❧

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R E A D E R

M A I L It is unfortunate that so many of our young people cannot afford to live here, but there will always be a position for some of them, as these people need someone to step and fetch for them. It is also unfortunate that your magazine promotes this lifestyle.

James Rendle Reeve-Newson, Thornbury

FROM OUR

READERS

RE: GRASSROOTS HEROES, WINTER 2019

RE: CLUB LIFE, WINTER 2019 My mother’s family (Ardiel) moved to the Beaver Valley 100 years ago, and my father moved here 94 years ago. As an agricultural community with some light industry, growing up here, it was an absolutely wonderful place to live.

In the latter part of the 20th century, the mass migration of monied people from the Golden Horseshoe and Greater Toronto Area started. They have their own very private clubs, built their ‘McMansion’ homes, and took over our harbour.

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ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

On behalf of the Meaford Hospital Foundation, a big thank you. As you know, we depend on getting our mission out to the public and what better way than through your fantastic publication!

As people become more mobile, our catchment seems to be growing with doctors coming from as far away as Wasaga Beach to work in our ER and with winter here, our admissions include outdoor enthusiasts from all over the Georgian Triangle so we truly serve the Southern Georgian Bay area.

Barbara Little Chair, Meaford Hospital Foundation I would like to comment on the recent article about the Marsh Street Centre in which the writer said: “local citizens and arts groups that provided a home for the local theatre troupe” by mentioning that the name of that troupe of volunteers, is The Thornbury Community Theatre (TCT).

Being named as a “local theatre troupe” does not do justice to what the TCT has contributed to the community since making the Marsh Street Centre (MSC) its theatrical home with their first production in November 2002. The TCT played an integral part in giving new life to the MSC and has donated thousands of dollars towards renovations and lighting over the years.

Susan Eijsenck TCT Member since 2001

159

$ from

*

UNTIL APRIL 21

EVERY DAY IS A GOOD DAY

RE: HAPPY TRAILS! FALL 2019 As an avid reader of On The Bay, I was pleased to read the trails article, a topic dear to my heart. I was one of a core of passionate people who formed a steering committee to begin the arduous process of the founding of the Georgian Trail, which runs from Collingwood to Meaford via Thornbury. Little did we know the process would take almost five years before actual approvals were obtained. It was spurred on by the death of a cyclist in the Craigleith area on Hwy. 26. Serendipidously, CN was opening up talks to sell off its old rail line in that same vicinity.

This was a new concept, to have a “linear park” back in the ’80s. It had been done in the U.S. to interconnect communities along abandoned rail lines, but there was only one precedent (that I know of) in the Caledon area, that we could look to. But it was located in one municipality. Ours traversed two counties (Grey and Simcoe) three towns (Collingwood, Thornbury and Meaford) and two townships (Collingwood Township now called The Town of The Blue Mountains and St. Vincent Township, west of Thornbury).

Each of these municipalities had different concerns, objections and bylaws that had to be brought into line with this novel concept.

St. Vincent, being rural, was concerned about

the liability of the spraying of apple orchards.

The Blue Mountains was quite lukewarm to this novel concept. Meaford, Thornbury and Collingwood saw the potential for ecotourism (a new word back then). If St. Vincent wasn’t onside, then it would isolate Meaford and the trail would have only gone to the town line between The Blue Mountains and St. Vincent, or probably just to Thornbury proper. Meaford really wanted it.

There was another stumbling block: CN only wanted to sell to one owner. The price was about $26,000. They would pull out all the old railway ties and leave the roadbed as it was, which was in remarkably good shape, considering it had not seen a train on it for about 20 years! Many property owners whose lands abutted the railway wanted to purchase their own section to enhance the value of their property. Others were NIMBY’s (Not In My Back Yard) who didn’t want the public nearing their property, fearing vandalism. If there was a gap between property owners who did not want to get on board, then it would be null and void.

Hence the Georgian Trail was formed as a legal entity. (Interestingly, all the studies on linear parks proved that they actually kept neighbourhoods safer, lessened vandalism,

were a greener option than driving, improved the safety of cyclists, provided an opportunity to improve fitness outdoors and open up more commercial enterprises along their way, thus improving the economy of the areas through which they traversed). It ushered in the huge growth of cycling, and the many businesses that support it, in our area alone.

Under the tutelage, persistence and leadership of Anne Bennett, our chairperson, we persisted, attending countless meetings in blizzards (one in which Hwy. 26 was closing as we left the meeting!) She went to the eastern seaboard of the U.S. to see the trails there. She met with the people in Caledon. She talked to the local MPPs of the area. She went to Queen’s Park as well. She just didn’t give up when more and more roadblocks were thrown in front of us. (For her efforts, she was awarded The Order of Collingwood).

We soon realized it became a matter of educating all parties on the huge potential and opportunity this presented. We zealously went out to speak to local groups, council meetings, stakeholders, businesses and landowners to convince them of the benefits of this trail.

There was more than one dark moment when we thought all was lost. The deadline was

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SPRING

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13

R E A D E R

M A I L mushroomed in the Southern Georgian Bay area specifically, but in Ontario as a whole and perhaps the world. Now, I believe, every new development has to have a series of trails that interconnect with the trail system in its community. Collingwood, as an example, has many kilometres of trails which are second to none, thanks to their amazing core of volunteers and the town itself.

Next time you are cycling through Thornbury, look for a green plaque near the crossing area at Bruce St. North, towards the harbour, that highlights the creation of the Georgian Trail and all those involved in its beginning!

Helen Bull, Collingwood

CORRECTION

quickly drawing near with CN (who had been very patient with us). At that time, the Town of Collingwood stepped in and promised to buy all the land in all the townships, counties and towns through which it travelled, to become the “owner.” This stroke of luck prompted all

the municipal stakeholders to come onside.

Once approved, then came the machinations of costing out and building the trail, and the consequent fundraising that followed.

So, for all those new to our wonderful area, think of how this concept of “linear parks” has

Editor’s Note: In my message in our Winter issue, I inadvertently wrote that the art director was hired after we created the On The Bay logo and prototype. In fact, our first art director, Susan Meingast, was hired shortly after me and created the logo and the prototype. Susan was instrumental in creating the look of the magazine in those early days and we are thankful for her talent and hard work in helping to launch On The Bay. I apologize for the error.

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ON THE BAY

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RE: PROPOSED TC ENERGY PUMPED STORAGE PROJECT I am a resident of Meaford, the proposed “host community” for the TCE Pumped Storage Plant. I live in the “impact zone,” approximately 1.25 kms directly below the 375-acre, 67-foot deep man-made reservoir with a capacity to hold 23 million cubic metres of water, which will be sucked in and out of Georgian Bay daily.

The project will encompass 500 acres of base property, most of which will be clear cut.

I attended the TCE public engagement presentation on Dec 11th. John Mikkelsen, Director – Power Business Developement, states this is an ideal location as it is isolated, has a 150-metre elevation, access to a body of water and can connect to the grid in Barrie. That’s it ... no consideration to the environment or our community. TCE has no plan “B.” His team of “subject matter experts” had no idea people live near the base, the closest resident being a mere 300 metres from the shoreline intake area. They produced postconstruction drawings and purposely omitted the neighbouring communities. His public relations lead, Jennifer Link, stated “it’s a real good recycling of land story.” An absolute insult to all the families whose land was expropriated

back in 1942. People were forced out of their homes and some lost their loved ones in the war effort. If the land is not needed it should go back to them or be preserved as a memorial site.

TCE boasts of 800 jobs over four years of construction. TCE is preparing for a transient labor force and will be building “worker housing.”

It’s a documented fact that this increases crime rates due to sexual assault, violence, and drug and alcohol addictions. Meaford is a tourist destination; will people still want to come here?

After it is built there will be 12 to 15 permanent jobs and some of those can be remote.

Talk in the community is that a cement-making plant will be built on the construction site. Local family-run contracting businesses, who have supported the area for decades, will be depleted of their laborers as TCE will entice workers with higher pay grades and benefits.

These local businesses will falter. TCE further projects a boost in the local economy through the purchase of goods and services over the fouryear construction phase. Is that worth devastating the Escarpment, the pristine waters of Georgian Bay and sacrificing our growing tourism industry?

The workers will be here for four years; the monstrosity they will build on the Bay will be

here forever. Even when they are done with it, no remediation required.

If we truly need a pumped storage plant, then it should be built as a “closed loop system,” which does not require a natural body of water, in an abandoned mine or quarry. This “open loop system” they are purposing will devastate Georgian Bay. None of their mitigation efforts will change that.

Joanne Devaney, Meaford Editor’s Note: The public comment period for the proposed pumped storage facility by TC Energy on Department of National Defence (DND) land in Meaford has been extended to July 31, 2020. Comments may be sent to Holly King at ThirdPartyAccess@forces.gc.ca

WHERE DO YOU STAND ON THE ISSUES? Do you have any comments, suggestions or additional information in response to any of our stories? Don’t be shy! We’d love to hear from you! To submit your letter to the Editor, go to www.onthebaymagazine.com and click on “Have Your Say.” Comments will be published in an upcoming issue of On The Bay. We reserve the right to edit for style, content and space considerations.

Interiors • Collingwood • Exteriors 70 5 .4 4 4. 833 0

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FA R ROWA RCA RO D E S I G N .C A ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

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F E NC E P O S T S

A HALFWAY HENHOUSE True confessions from the 9th Concession

by DAN NEEDLES

❧

illustration by SHELAGH ARMSTRONG-HODGSON

Every time there’s a divorce in the neighbourhood, I get more chickens. Anyone who owns a pickup truck knows that whenever a friend is going through a transition, they always ask you to help them move. If you also have a farm and a barn, they will ask you to bring the truck and take a pile of stuff off their hands, usually forever. Over the last 32 years I have stored mountains of furniture, fleets of cars, boats and trailers, and a ton of fine French bric-a-brac. I also get a lot of animals – dogs and cats, ducks and geese, the odd sheep or pig, wind-broke horses, and even cows. It tells you a lot about the state of farming in this country when people just drive up and drop off livestock at the gate.

It’s a reverse form of rustling. One time I came back to the farm late at night and found a sheep I didn’t recognize in the pen with a note pinned to its fleece: “Dan – This is Dolly. She’ll be very happy with you. Best, Robert.” (That was another divorce.) Dolly was getting up in years and had never been sheared. When we finally got the wool off her, it weighed more than Dolly.

I now have 25 hens in my coop, most of them ready for the pension. I get about three eggs a day from the flock, which is obviously a total waste of time and chicken feed. The only explanation I can offer for my chicken habit is that I like them. They run toward me, not away from me. They are all so quiet I can pick them up and put them on my lap for a visit. They even have names. I know it’s ridiculous but these birds have been loved so dearly by their former owners that I feel responsible for them.

Every so often, someone comes back to visit or even reclaim their loved one. But that is rare. Bobby Ransier, the handyman and problem solver of this community, left me three chickens last fall and he’ll be back for them any day now. He has built a massive henhouse at the end of his driveway that he calls Club Cluck, with hot and cold running water, a sound system tuned to Classical FM, and a remote camera hooked up to his iPhone for 24-hour security. But it is not insulated, so he sends the hens up to me for the winter.

A lot of my chickens are licensed because they once lived in town.

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This is yet another symptom of decay in our culture and a sure sign the revolution is at hand. It will not be long now, comrades. Chicken police from the provincial marketing board patrol the neighbourhood in big black Escalades. The township even has a chicken inspector, which is nuts. When I was growing up in North Toronto in the 1950s we had five henhouses on our street, including our own. Of course, there were complaints, but they came from people like the high-strung plastic surgeon next door who got upset if a feather blew onto his lawn. Nobody paid him any mind.

My cattle herd started with a drop-off. A neighbour had an orphan calf that he thought was unlikely to survive, so he gave her to me. She was a belted Galloway, a heritage breed called the Oreo Cookie cow because of the distinctive white band around its belly. (You eat the middle first.) I called her The Duchess, and like a good Russian Romanov, she enjoyed ill health for many years and produced a line of sickly ne’er-do-well calves who did their best to bankrupt the state. The Duchess was eventually carried off by a summer complaint and is buried out in the orchard beside a hundred other displaced animals who have lived out their declining years in these meadows.

People ask why I let people do this to me. “It must be hard to leave the place,” they say. That’s true, but as long as I crop the fields and keep the pasture full of animals, the property-tax people accept that I’m a farmer and are less likely to reassess my property as rural residential and double my taxes. Just to be on the safe side, when an old sheep expires, I stuff it and stand it up with wires out on the hill so it shows up on their aerial photos.

Still, if you’re thinking of dropping off a dear old friend, please don’t.

There is already a very long waiting list. ❧ Author and playwright Dan Needles is the recipient of the Stephen Leacock Medal for Humour. His latest book, True Confessions from the Ninth Concession (Douglas & McIntyre), is a collection from 20 years of his columns for On The Bay and other publications.

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As inventories of resale homes remain low and prices continue to rise, buyers may have to look a little farther afield to find their oasis. Best advice: be patient!

“

stories by EMILY WORTS illustration by SHELAGH ARMSTRONG-HODGSON

Bullish from Mulmur to Meaford.” That’s how local realtor Rob McAleer, sales representative with Chestnut Park Real Estate, describes the local housing market. With sale prices smashing

past records, it seems that with a new decade comes new highs. Though local realtors can’t predict the future, their insights, based on the last months of the last decade, tell us there is nowhere to go but up ... in prices that is.

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

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The average residential sale price was lowest in Wasaga Beach at $450,000 and highest in the Town of Blue Mountains at $715,000.

Over the past year there was a noticeable jump in properties selling over the $1 million mark, and though the high-end properties tend to stay on the market longer, if priced right they are moving.

But as prices increase, the number of sales has seen some levelling out in the past year. Gone is the frenzied panic of multiple offers, replaced by calmer, educated offers from buyers who are willing to wait for the property that is right for them. On The Bay sat down with a host of local realtors to get a read on the local real estate market as we head into the 2020s.

INVENTORY Southern Georgian Bay continues to struggle with a shortage of homes available for sale, while the appetite for homes in our region remains high. The supply problem creates both positive impacts (record sales for sellers) and negative impacts (lack of affordability for some potential buyers). In 2016 our market tipped from a strong buyer’s market into a balanced market and then quickly transitioned to a sellers’ market. For the past three years, low inventory and the type of inventory are the only things holding this area back.

“The area has a lot of positive momentum, new businesses are popping up all the time and there is no shortage of activities for people all year round,” says Josh Dolan, broker with Royal LePage Locations North. “Sales could be higher if we had better product to sell. In short, we need ‘good’ listings.”

With increased demand, of course, prices follow an upward trajectory. “It is hard to find something under $300,000 and everything under $600,000 seems to sell very fast,” says Dolan.

Across the region, there is currently an average four-month inventory of active residential properties for sale, well below the traditional eight to 12 months that existed before 2016. Supply is tightest in Collingwood, with just under three months of inventory available, which means we continue to see multiple offers, especially on properties priced below the half-million-dollar mark.

GTA EFFECT As prices in the GTA continue to elude first-time buyers, many are considering alternatives and investing in Southern Georgian Bay, which is relatively more affordable.

“The strength of the GTA market will continue to positively affect our local market,” says Sue Creed, managing partner and sales representative with Forest Hill Real Estate Collingwood. “Buyers who can no longer afford to buy in the GTA will be drawn to Collingwood’s affordability, and leverage remote work opportunities.” And for firsttime buyers who are struggling to get into the GTA market and don’t have the option of working remotely, purchasing a weekend home up here, while renting in the city, allows them to build equity.

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“The millennials are struggling to get into the market,” says Cheryl MacLaurin, sales representative with Chestnut Park Real Estate. “Here they can buy a weekend place, work like crazy during the week, and relax here on weekends.”

Renting in the city where you work, and buying where you recreate on the weekends, can be more achievable and signals the growing trend of the ‘reverse cottage.’

DEMOGRAPHICS The lifestyle Southern Georgian Bay affords translates to a demand for both full- and part-time residences; from starter homes and condos to acreage with a view, the offerings span the spectrum of demands. “Our communities continue to be a diverse mixture of young people, new families, entrepreneurs, artists, professionals and retirees,” says MacLaurin.

For those who want to live and work in the area, our local employment market is strong in many sectors. Combine work opportunities with the federal government’s revamped mortgage stress test, which makes it easier for borrowers to qualify for loans, add down payments of less than 20 per cent, and what was once unobtainable may be achievable. Firsttime home buyers might now be comfortable buying in the $600,000 range, the median price for homes in Southern Georgian Bay. And the baby boomers continue to move in every direction.

“They aren’t necessarily downsizing but transitioning from weekend properties for an in-town lifestyle or looking for full time over part time residences in Southern Georgian Bay,” says Melissa Worts, sales representative with Royal LePage Locations North [full disclosure: Worts is the writer’s sister].

CASTING A WIDER NET Although prices may be friendlier here than in Ontario’s urban centres, there are significant differences in supply, demand, and prices throughout our area. As a result, home prices remain out of range for many in the region’s hottest markets, forcing buyers to set their sights on surrounding communities. The average residential sale price was lowest in Wasaga Beach at $450,000 and highest in the Town of The Blue Mountains at $715,000 (Collingwood’s average price was around $550,000). If you are willing to drive just 20 to 30 minutes, you can save yourself a bundle of money.

Buyers are catching on to this, so demand – and prices – are on the rise in places like Meaford. “Meaford is a hot area,” confirms Worts.

“Outlying areas are increasing in value because there is nothing available elsewhere. It’s about managing expectations and buying where you can afford.”

NEW HIGHS In the past year the area has seen a big jump in properties selling over $1 million. In 2019 there were 23 properties in Clearview alone that sold for over $1 million, up from just 10 in 2018.

“One of the listings we sold in Mulmur smashed the highest residential sale record for our entire service area (Mulmur to Meaford).

It was listed at $6,850,000,” says Rob McAleer. “This demonstrated that our area is attracting a new level of purchase for very special properties.”

And it’s not just the prices of elaborate 200-acre estates with pristine forests, European-influenced chateaus and three-acre ponds that are soaring; new bars are being set for in-town properties as well.

The Creemore market is subject to what local realtors call the ‘Sarah Richardson effect.’ The TV personality and home show host spent a lot of time and money renovating a main street heritage home in the small

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REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

village while televising the transformation and then flipping the home, catching the area’s highest in-town price ever recorded. “She really shone a light on the community with her project house set in the town. It set a new sales high and set new expectations,” says Cheryl MacLaurin.

The Sarah Richardson Effect, known as the HGTV effect elsewhere, means buyers want a decorator’s house and they will pay a premium for the latest design trends, without having to endure a renovation.

Home prices remain out of range for many in the region’s hottest markets, forcing buyers to set their sights on surrounding communities.

“Buyers from Toronto are often double income,” says MacLaurin.

“They are busy professionals, and most want something they don’t have to worry about. That, or they want a really big project, like building from the ground up.” Despite the jump in sales and price tags, higher end properties are understandably harder to sell, and they remain on the market longer. “Buyers can be picky and they aren’t really in a rush for these higher end properties,” says MacLaurin. “Recreational properties are totally discretionary. Unless the property ticks all the boxes, people don’t have to buy.”

WHAT’S MOVING The market in 2020 has been described as a balanced market with a slight tendency towards a seller’s market, but that all depends on what price point you are looking at.

“In general, homes selling under $400,000 have a lower than average days-on-market and are selling quickly, often with multiple offers,” says Sue Creed. “Homes selling for over $1,000,000 generally are selling close to asking price; however, they are experiencing a slightly higher than average days-on-market.”

Homes in the lower price points are still the ones moving the quickest, attracting buyers of all ages, but what is considered ‘low’ has changed dramatically in the past few years.

“It wasn’t that long ago that homes in the $300,000 to $399,999 range sold best in Wasaga Beach, but given how few listings there are any more in that price range, the range has definitely bumped up to the next level,” says Scott Campbell, broker with Royal LePage Trinity Realty.

“It is worth noting that 60.7 per cent of our sales this year are between $400,000 and $599,999, and the reason for that is largely due to the fact that many of our buyers from the GTA (who are typically downsizing) feel most comfortable buying in this range given the levels of equity they still wish to keep to enjoy their retirement.”

NEW HOMES New developments are popping up faster than ever. Creemore is seeing its first ever new home development, Stayner has several on the go, attracting commuters from the GTA, Barrie and Collingwood, and in the Town of Wasaga Beach alone the building department statistics indicated a 57.7 per cent increase in construction values for the first 11 months of 2019, translating to $83.3 million versus $52 million in all of 2018.

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“The town’s construction value statistics continue to look very promising,” says Scott Campbell. “Further looking at housing ‘units,’ there were 298 units built in the first 11 months of 2019 compared to 94 units in all of 2018.”

With demand continuing to outpace supply, the only dark spot on the real estate horizon is lack of affordability for some buyers, says Campbell.

“For many of the younger buyers looking to move to, or stay, in our area and for our senior populations, who for generations have raised their families here (and not ‘sold out’ for record profits in the GTA), it can still be a bit of a struggle to buy (or rent) housing in our area.”

Across our area we are seeing very few units at entry-level prices.

“Right now we have a strong missing middle,” says Chris Keleher, broker with Royal LePage Locations North. “We need more housing in that range, even if it’s small; we don’t need palatial houses.”

Most new housing developments have some entry-level offerings, but many are listed in the $600,00 to $800,000 mark and are unattainable, even for young professionals. “We’re desperate for that entry level,” says Keleher. “Developers end up selling out their perfect price point units and end up sitting on the high priced units forever. The low prices are gone because it fits the market. People jump.”

Townhouses and apartment buildings weren’t that appealing eight years ago when an entry-level detached home could be purchased for $300,000. Today that same detached home is worth $650,000, so

Homes in the lower price points are still the ones moving the quickest, attracting buyers of all ages, but what is considered ‘low’ has changed dramatically in the past few years. apartments and townhomes are a better bet for those entering the market. “Apartment buildings, some townhouses and maybe a few bigger homes are what we need,” says Keleher. “Times have changed and if you want to get up here, you need entry level. People might need to live in an apartment for three or four years and build some equity.”

WHAT’S NEXT Year over year, housing prices in Southern Georgian Bay continue to climb, reaching all-time highs. With all things remaining stable – the global economy, the stock market, interest rates and quality available product – local realtors project our market will continue to see steady growth in terms of sales and prices.

“With interest rates projected to stay relatively unchanged in 2020 and with net-migration rates (in terms of people moving to versus away from our area) looking so positive, we anticipate 2020 to be another very good real estate year,” says Scott Campbell.

Many factors continue to impact property sales into 2020, with demand leading the way as people look to live, work and play in Southern Georgian Bay. Our market is driven by people of all ages, who themselves are ultimately driven by the desirable lifestyle our area offers. The new decade will require buyers to be patient, manage expectations and cast a wider net in their quest. ❧

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An interview with the president of our local real estate board

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For the first time since 2010, the average sales price for homes in Southern Georgian Bay surpassed the half-million-dollar mark. And the forecast suggests the new decade will continue to mean new highs.

It’s not surprising that the outlook is positive; Maclean’s magazine lists Collingwood as one of the top 25 communities in all of Canada in which to live, citing demographics, culture and community, and commute as the top three reasons to call our area home.

“Consumers locally, provincially, nationally and internationally continue to fall in love with our market from lifestyle and investment perspectives,” says Mike Scholte, president of the Southern Georgian Bay Association of Realtors (SGBAR). “Our area continues to be discovered as a suitable community to accommodate all stages of life combined with great infrastructure and proximity to major urban centers.”

On The Bay interviewed Scholte to get his thoughts on today’s real estate market in the SGBAR’s Western District, which includes Wasaga Beach, Springwater, Clearview Township, Collingwood, The Blue Mountains, Meaford and Grey Highlands. Here are his insights.

How would you describe the current resale home market, and why?

Mike Scholte: We’re seeing year over year growth in terms of sales and property values in the Southern Georgian Bay market.

Numbers have been steady and consistent. There are indications of a balanced market, which is nice. There is a slight favouring for the seller, but it’s not outrageous as in years passed.

Sellers around here don’t have as much power as the Toronto and Vancouver markets. Here there is still a trend of buyers having choice. We are unique because if this area doesn’t work for buyers, they can try the Muskokas or Haliburton. Or if they do want to move to this area, they have choice within it. In Toronto, they don’t have as much choice; if they have to be there for work, they have to buy there. We don’t see the ‘we will buy anything’ mentality here like you do in Vancouver or Toronto.

What are some key numbers to illustrate the current state of the market?

MS: The Southern Georgian Bay Association of Realtors (SGBAR) Western District had residential sales activity of 1,997 sales in 2019, up 10.6 per cent from the same period in 2018. There were 3,484 new listings with an average of 690 active listings per month.

Important metrics for the state of the real estate market include the sales to new listing ratio and months of inventory (MOI). The sales to new listing ratio is the ratio between the number of homes

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sold and the number of new listings entering the market. This metric normally falls around 50 per cent during a balanced market. A higher ratio implies a seller’s market and a lower ratio implies a buyer’s market. Given that our district has a 2019 sales to new listing ratio of 57.3, we can say that we are in a balanced market with a slight tendency toward a seller’s market.

The MOI metric indicates the supply and demand relationship in the housing market. This ratio represents the number of months it would take to sell homes, based on an area’s current rate of sales activity. For example, if there are 100 listings currently on the market, and 20 properties are being sold each month, then if no new listings appeared, the inventory would be sold within five months.

A balanced market has about five or six months of inventory on the market, indicating that the supply and demand for properties in the area is equal. If there were greater than six months of inventory, it would be indicative of a buyer’s market and less then six months of inventory would be indicative of a seller’s market. The fewer months of inventory, the more competitive the market. In the Western District of SGBAR, the 2019 year-to-date MOI was 4.1, again suggesting a seller’s market.

Finally, in the Western District of SGBAR, the average sales price was $548,373 which is the highest average since 2010.

How has the market changed since last year at this time?

MS: What I love about this year is that we have more consistent numbers to base decisions on. Last year at this time we were coming out of a very sporadic market and it was harder to make pricing decisions for sellers. There was a gap in expectations between sellers and buyers. There has been a stabilization in prices and now we have proof as to where things should be priced. It is about managing expectations and people are no longer basing prices on, ‘what do the neighbours say.’

There is currently a fourmonth inventory of active residential properties for sale, well below the traditional eight to 12 months that existed before 2016.

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Are there differences across the Western Region?

For example, between Collingwood and The Blue Mountains, Meaford, Wasaga Beach, etc.?

MS: Yes, each community has its own unique micro market within our district. Our area is geographically varied and includes town, rural, recreational, condominium and resort properties, which are unique not only in type but also location. Collingwood and the Town of The Blue Mountains see higher pricing and you might not find your starter home in those areas. It is important to be open to looking at different options. There are fabulous opportunities in some of the outlying areas like Wasaga Beach, Stayner and Meaford and people are beginning to look at these areas as suitable alternatives.

As realtors, it is our job to manage clients’ expectations and as buyers we have to be realistic.

Over the last two years, our market experienced the same intensity, as did much of the Canadian real estate market, and this led to a

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Renting in the city where you work, and buying where you recreate on the weekends, can be more achievable and signals the growing trend of the ‘reverse cottage.’ heightened urgency with buyers and sellers but also a fear of destabilization. Several measures were put into place by the government to ‘cool’ the market, including the introduction of the mortgage stress test and more stringent income qualification for purchasers. These measures are now entrenched, and impact both selling and buying decisions. You have to be open to opportunities and ask yourself what you can afford and get for your dollars.

How are low inventory and other market forces affecting home prices in our area?

MS: Low inventory increases the pressure on potential buyers and will impact price. However, we are starting to see new development projects in all areas, and this will offer some supply relief. Buyer

choice of community is likely to offset some of that pressure as well.

SGBAR’s Western District continues to experience a balanced market trending towards a seller’s market. That being said, we are finding that buyer and seller expectations have an enormous impact on the successful sale and purchase of a property. Overpriced houses do sit. It is important to listen to the numbers. Consumers have choice, no matter how low the inventory.

What are the challenges in the current market, for both buyers and sellers?

MS: Low interest rates combined with the stability of the SGBAR market make our community very attractive to suppliers of mortgage financing;

however, purchaser and seller qualification is still a challenge. There are unique and effective solutions to financing the purchase of a new home, but preparation is required. Get professional advice to make sure you are prepared. This allows you to work quicker and seek out a better experience in purchasing or in the sale of your house.

As president of the SGBAR, what is your forecast for the near-future real estate market in our area (next 12 months)?

MS: No-one is privy to a crystal ball; however, the market trends indicate the next 12 months will produce a strong market in our area. Low interest rates, a growing economy and stable job statistics will bolster confidence. This area continues to build momentum, especially in some of the outlying areas like Stayner and Wasaga Beach. More and more we are looking at all communities, not just one, with potential buyers.

Inventory will continue to be low, but as we ramp up into the summer season I am optimistic.

We had a really easy winter, because of the weather.

People were able to come here to look and realtors were busy throughout the winter. More temperate winters accelerate our spring market. There seem to be a lot of potential sellers prepping houses and getting ready, and there is a lot of interest from people within the area and outside. It is reasonable to forecast growth in our real estate market. There is a robust market in Toronto, and we tend to follow urban market trends shortly after. ❧

Congratulations, Nancy Our partners and staff are pleased to congratulate Nancy Locke for achieving her 25-year career milestone at BDO. “I first joined BDO when I was in high school and returned after graduating from university. For over 25 years, I’ve enjoyed the many relationships I’ve developed with clients, staff and partners. I’ve made new friendships and built connections in the community through my involvement with Rotary, my children’s school and sports organizations and other volunteer work.

I’m grateful for all of these experiences which have helped me develop as a professional and strengthened my ties to my community—and I look forward to continuing to building on them in the future.”

Nancy, thank you for the dedication you’ve shown on the way to this achievement. We look forward to all your further accomplishments.

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Buyers Sellers For many of us, real estate is our biggest investment, so both emotions and dollar signs can run high when we’re thinking of buying or selling. The real estate game is never an easy one, and in Southern Georgian Bay it can be ever more challenging. Ours is a sensitive market, with ups, downs and unique attributes that often make it rough to navigate. If handled carefully, the journey can be smooth; if not, mistakes and missteps along the way can be expensive and even lead to lengthy legal battles that can take years to resolve.

Buying or selling in our area means buying or selling within six municipalities and two counties, each with their own rules and regulations, geographical considerations and niche characteristics.

Below are some helpful, and often overlooked, tips from broker Chris Keleher, highlighting the importance of local knowledge.

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1.

TAKE IT SLOW

The reasons people are moving to Southern Georgian Bay are as diverse as the local areas people have to choose from, each with their own unique attributes. Different areas attract different types of buyers, from those who are moving their family here to retirees, weekenders and investors.

“There is so much to learn about each little pocket here,” says Keleher. “You can’t buy here in the same way you buy in the GTA, where you act quickly and realtors make you feel like you have to go go go or you’re not going to get it.”

Those looking to buy in Southern Georgian Bay don’t always know what they want when they get here, and there is such a variety of different options in this area that there’s no such thing as a one-sizefits-all scenario. Take the time to get to know the area, says Keleher; it is large and diverse with many lifestyle options, from living near the slopes at Blue Mountain or golf course living at Lora Bay, to waterfront or in-town living in Collingwood or Wasaga Beach.

“There are swampy low-lying areas. It’s far more buggy up the

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

hill than down the hill. Living in Thornbury is very different from Collingwood in terms of your day-to-day life,” notes Keleher. “Take your time to really learn. ‘What type of condo do I want to own and what’s the rental program on it? Do I want to live in Collingwood or the Blue Mountains? What is my life going to look like here? What is my long-term plan? Where are my kids going to go to school?’ ” Thankfully, in our area we have the luxury of time to make the right decision versus a quick decision. See as many homes as you can before you make your choice; it’s part of the learning experience.

Because Southern Georgian Bay is such a vast area, rules and

Gone is the frenzied panic of multiple offers, replaced by calmer, educated offers from buyers who are willing to wait for the property that is right for them.

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regulations can change within a five-minute drive.

“We have different rules, like short-term accommodation and licensing processes, and you can’t make assumptions,” says Keleher.

“With short-term accommodations and Airbnb, people are trying to do it but don’t recognize where they can do it and how that can affect their investment big time.”

When people aren’t informed and don’t know where certain regulations or restrictions apply, it can be hard to protect their investment. “Some people can no longer pay their mortgage because they were buying a property on the premise that they could rent it short term and make big money,” says Keleher. “Use a local realtor who understands rental rules and different municipalities.”

Another hurdle in our area is the Niagara Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) and the floodplain that runs through much of this area.

The NVCA regulations affect much of Southern Georgian Bay and the rules can have major impacts. If a buyer doesn’t have the facts, they may end up with a house they can’t expand as they’d like because it’s on the floodplain. “You could buy a house on Birch Street in Collingwood and you could double it in size because it’s not on the floodplain, but if your home is on the floodplain, you can only expand it a certain percentage,” notes Keleher. “It can be very limiting as to what you can do.”

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margins are tight. Spending loads of money on renovations doesn’t necessarily mean a big payout when it comes time to sell; it’s important to understand what the market will bear.

“If you’re going to get a margin, it will be a small margin,” says Keleher. “The fault is people try to make a big margin or they overimprove the house.”

Keleher sees those investing in local real estate tend to assess the

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value of the house based on alternatives, not the replacement cost or what has been invested in the house. “Buyers see it not as, ‘What is this house worth? But what else can I get for this money? Is this the best I can get for this money vs. is this worth this money?’ ” says Keleher. “There is such a variety of options. They may switch completely, from condo to freehold, based on alternatives.”

Whether buying or selling, there have never been so many sources of information available. Using a local real estate professional can help you navigate that information while applying their local knowledge and connections in your favour. When choosing a local realtor, word of mouth goes a long way. Ask friends, neighbours, family and co-workers who they have used to help buy and sell homes in the past. Look online at realtors’ websites. Are they easy to follow and well put together? Have investments been made on the realtor’s part to get the best price possible?

Once you have a list of potential agents, interview them and see who is the right fit for you, making sure you choose someone who is willing to take the time to help you maximize your investment.

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1.

SIZE UP THE MARKET

When considering putting a ‘For Sale’ sign on the front lawn, sellers undoubtedly have a myriad of questions and doubts. What is the market doing now? What will it look like six months out? Should I price it low in hopes of sparking a bidding war or try and get maximum dollars out of the gate? The neighbour’s house sold for this amount; can I get the same? Is my house likely to be worth more than recent sales in my neighbourhood?

Consulting a local realtor may help tame those doubts and answer those questions, and in the process save you time and anxiety. “Tell me where your house is and the condition of it, and we can tell you how the market is for that house,” says Keleher. “Right now, if you have a condo in Shadow Ridge, it will sell in multiple offers for over asking. And right now if you have a house in Georgian Meadows, it will sit on the market.”

There are a host of considerations realtors analyze when pricing homes to sell. The exact same house on a different street could be in a completely different price range. What school district your property is in will influence what it’s worth. Which side of the downtown core your house sits on might mean a higher price tag.

“There are all these nuances,” says Keleher. “And it cycles back to local knowledge.” If you want to sell your property, price it right. It’s that simple.

2.

PRICE IT RIGHT

“Your property won’t sell if you’re not pricing your home correctly, which people have been doing recently based on the 2017 hangover,” says Keleher. “People are pricing it high hoping for what we call the ‘unicorn buyer.’ ” When you price your property high, you put buyers in the position to disagree with the price, finding flaws they may have overlooked otherwise. On the flip side, if they agree with the price, they find things they love about the house and this could drive up the price.

“When things are priced right, they sell quickly in multiple offers,” maintains Keleher. “This does not mean they are going for crazy overasking prices. It could be $5,000 over asking, it could be asking price but they have created momentum of more than one buyer to bring the price to the highest it can be in that market.”

Like any market, our local real estate market can be slow at times, but

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when priced right, properties have more of a chance of selling quickly.

“I kind of imagine Southern Georgian Bay with a big hedge around it and all the buyers are hiding behind the hedge waiting for something good,” says Keleher. “When things seem quiet and a listing comes up at a great price, everyone jumps over the hedge and pounces on it.”

Local agents will tell you there is always momentum in our area, but the demand is unique because people often don’t need to move here right away. “People don’t need a vacation home NOW,” says Keleher.

“It is all tempered urgency, so it has to be the right product at the right price at the right time.”

3.

GET PREPARED

The nature of the real estate business means that with every transaction you have a buyer versus a seller.

“The buyer is going to come in and try and find ways to get that price down and not agree with the seller,” says Keleher. “When people see flaws, they start looking for more flaws; it multiplies.”

Do everything you can, months in advance, to get your house buttoned up, within reason, advises Keleher. Don’t break the bank and gut your kitchen, but everything that you don’t do – such as small renovations, painting, staging, or preparing the home for each showing – is going to affect your chance to get top dollar.

“I always compare it to dating,” says Keleher. “You don’t go out with messy hair and track pants and say, ‘Don’t worry, I freshen up nicely.’

Showing your house is like a first date; people are coming in critical.”

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For the past three years, low inventory and the type of inventory are the only things holding this area back.

4.

MARKETING MATTERS

Find an agent with a marketing plan that matches your expectations.

In today’s market it is all about having an online presence. “Marketing matters,” says Keleher. “It’s a big deal because there are so many out-oftown buyers. Your online marketing has to be great because people aren’t going to see a road sign from Toronto.”

Ask your realtor if staging consultation is included in their listing services. Look at their other listings and evaluate the quality of their photography, video tours and drone footage, all part of the standard package. Properties should be presented online as professionally as possible. Virtual visits mean potential buyers can eliminate homes without ever seeing them in person. But don’t overdo it, warns Keleher.

Because of where we live, buyers often drive great distances to shop for homes in our area, and false advertising can leave a bitter taste.

“Don’t oversell it online; you don’t want it to seem too good and have people disappointed when they arrive.”

Whether you’re thinking of buying or selling, following these tips can make the difference in your experience, your wallet and ultimately, your satisfaction. ❧

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As residential developers eagerly cash in on the growing demand for housing in Southern Georgian Bay – offering a mix of residential types to their new home palette – municipal planners scramble to keep up with development proposals, approvals and site services. Meanwhile, some local citizens are concerned about the sustainability of what they view as rampant building activity, fearing it will impact municipal infrastructures, local traffic, the environment and the character of the communities they love.

H

by MARC HUMINILOWYCZ

ow will increased residential development affect the character of our region? Speaking with municipal planners, the numbers look staggering. According to its target in the province’s “Places to Grow” Growth Plan for

the Greater Golden Horseshoe, the population of Wasaga Beach is forecast to grow from the last census of 20,675 to 27,500 by 2031. The town’s chief planner estimates 4,377 approved residential units in its coffer, with another 1,800 projected in the coming years.

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In Clearview Township, the numbers are even more dramatic, with 7,270 residential units in various stages of application, approval and construction. Doing the math (assuming 2.2 people per household) the total populations of these municipalities could increase by 13,590 and almost 16,000 respectively in the next few years.

This raises the question of sustainability. What will these increases in homes and populations mean to the character and quality of life in Southern Georgian Bay with respect to infrastructure (roads, water, sewer, etc.), traffic, the environment, services, amenities and schools? We spoke to several developers with notable projects in Southern Georgian Bay, as well as planners from all municipalities, to address some key questions that need to be asked: how municipalities are balancing housing demand with sustainability; what types of homes are being built; and how development is being managed to ensure smart growth.

Recent discussions with local planners about 2019 development activity reveal increased numbers across our region over the previous year. For example, The Town of The Blue Mountains reports issuing 320 building permits for new residential units with an estimated construction value of $181 million in 2019, compared to 201 units valued at $161 million in 2018. Owen Sound experienced a 48 per cent increase in total construction value in 2019 over the previous year. And Wasaga Beach experienced a “banner year,” with 363 new building permits issued.

WASAGA BEACH Wasaga Beach is well on its way to exceeding the population predictions of the provincial Growth Plan. Having identified several “development nodes” from east to west, the town is carefully and methodically plotting a course for a sustainable future, according to Doug Herron, manager of planning and development.

“In terms of text and timing, the Growth Plan was written for our town, with sustainability top of mind. It is reshaping how we think,” says Herron. “Social and environmental considerations direct our plans for a complete and fully integrated community, from cottages to multiunits to single family homes, and we’re working with our neighbouring municipalities to develop a connected trail system tied to the Georgian Trail and the Georgian Bay Waterfront Trail.”

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REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

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The Villas at Wasaga Meadows by Parkbridge comprises 66 land-lease units near Beach One.

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Doug Herron, Town of Wasaga Beach

Tel.: 705-446-0255 jamie.bennett@nbc.ca 108 Hurontario St. Collingwood, Ontario

MOD EL

We’re in discussions with developers about our Downtown Node, which could include a 50-unit condo on the river, a retirement home and long-term care home. And this spring, we will be issuing an RFP (request for proposal) to developers to see what they will offer regarding Beach One, paying special attention to our issue of rising lake levels and where it’s safe to build. For us, it’s all about the development of a complete community.

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A case in point is a development to the east of Wasaga Beach’s Downtown Node, where a new arena and a new, larger library will be situated in the same location. “Although the majority of our population is 50-plus, we want to bring in more families into our town,” says Herron.

“We are modernizing and continually coming up with programs that are best for our residents. A new library and a new arena will offer social gathering places for young and older alike.”

ON THE BAY

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39

Because we are experiencing significant growth, it is important that we maintain the small-town character and charm of our communities and provide a balance of residential growth, usually followed by commercial growth. Our new Official Plan, currently in progress, will be looking at how to address the ‘missing middle’ by encouraging or requiring developers to build more modest homes, around 1,000 to 1,500 square feet.

Mara Burton, Clearview Township On the new development front, Herron provides an update on new and existing projects and the town’s grand Downtown Master Plan. “Four years ago, 90 per cent of our housing was single family homes. Now we have a strong swing to a variety of units,” he says. “We’re in discussions with developers about our Downtown Node, which could include a 50-unit condo on the river, a retirement home and long-term care home. And this spring, we will be issuing an RFP (request for proposal) to developers to

40

ON THE BAY

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REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

Collingwood Quay, the final phase of the Shipyards development, will be released in the spring of 2021.

see what they will offer regarding Beach One, paying special attention to our issue of rising lake levels and where it’s safe to build. For us, it’s all about the development of a complete community.”

One notable development now taking shape is the Villas at Wasaga Meadows from Parkbridge Homes. Situated within the existing retirement community of Wasaga Meadows near Beach One, the project is offering 66 units ranging from 1,268 to 1,675 square feet, competitively priced at $281,914 to $345,023 (including HST).

“Because it’s a land lease arrangement where we retain ownership of the land, we are targeting the ‘missing middle’ of the market, offering a low price point that appeals to active, retired Boomers from all over (including the GTA) who want to affordably downsize,” says Kristen Wilkinson, Parkbridge’s vice-president, customer experience. “The Villas offer homeowners all the features and amenities they’re looking for and a sense of simplicity, including one-floor living, ‘lock and leave’ maintenance, enough space, and social connections. They can plug into the social networks in the larger Wasaga Meadows community.”

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CLEARVIEW TOWNSHIP According to Clearview’s most recent Project Input Summary, there are currently 30 residential development projects of various types in the application, approval or construction stages, representing the largest number of new units (7,270) in one of Southern Georgian Bay’s smaller municipalities.

One notable project, currently in pre-sales, is the adult lifestyle community of Simcoe Gardens in Stayner by developer Mamta Homes.

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Essentially, the Growth Plan lays out a framework for creating a more liveable, compact, and complete urban structure with good design and built form that supports economic and environmental benefits, including protection of the natural environment from the impacts of growth, while providing amenities for residents and visitors alike.

Our planning policies are supportive of sustainable building, meaning density and intensification targets, complete communities and compact urban form.

Mark Bryan, Town of Collingwood and priced from $390,000, will feature a wide unit footprint, high ceilings in the living room, and entrances to the backyard from the home and an attached garage.

“Ours is a unique site plan – it’s spacious, not crowded, with a real neighbourhood feel,” says Mamta president Harjinder Kang. “The common elements will feature a central gazebo area, benches, a walking trail and a unique rain garden. You can walk to shops in Stayner, and we’re only 10 minutes’ drive to Collingwood and Wasaga Beach.” He notes that the development will appeal to mature buyers – up to 70 per cent of which will likely come from neighbouring communities and the rest from the GTA. When asked about how Clearview Township is balancing growth with sustainability, director of community services Mara Burton replies that the municipality sees itself as the keeper of communities and infrastructure long after developers have moved onto other projects, making sure that they “work” and stand the test of time financially, environmentally, and for the ongoing well-being of the community.

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Collingwood Award Of Excellence

Collingwood Lifetime Award Of Excellence

Master Sales Award - Top 11-20%⁂

Thornbury

Collingwood Lifetime Award Of Excellence

Collingwood

Ellen Kalis* Collingwood

Patti Parsons* Collingwood

Collingwood Lifetime Award Of Excellence

Collingwood

Collingwood Award Of Excellence

Vicki Bell**

Donna Crane*

Dave Dick*

Shelby Elstone*

Nick Kardos**

Krista Lesage*

Linda Murphy*

Mike Poetker*

Jessica Ryerse*

Lesley Sullivan*

Abbey Westlake*

Laurie Westlake*

Collingwood Lifetime Award Of Excellence

Collingwood Lifetime Award Of Excellence

Collingwood

Meaford

Thornbury

Collingwood

Collingwood

Meaford

Wasaga Beach

Collingwood

Collingwood

Collingwood

Lifetime Award of Excellence - Presented to members attaining President’s Gold (or higher) ten out of fourteen consecutive years Award of Excellence - Presented to members attaining President’s Gold (or higher) five out of seven consecutive years

Karl Hannan**

Thornbury Award Of Excellence

President’s Gold Award - Top 6-10%⁂

Doug Beaumont** Collingwood Award Of Excellence

Christine Smith**

Collingwood Award Of Excellence

Diamond Award - Top 3%⁂

Rob Dubien*

Director’s Platinum Award - Top 5%⁂

Josh Dolan**

Sheila Shepherd* Collingwood

Erica Solmes* Collingwood

⁂

Top percentage of their residential marketplace based on sales earnings

PERSONAL PROFESSIONAL

PROGRESSIVE Real Estate Services

COLLINGWOOD: 705-445-5520 | CREEMORE: 705-881-9005 | MEAFORD: 519-538-5755 THORNBURY: 519-599-2136 | WASAGA BEACH: 705-617-9969 Not intended to solicit listings currently listed for sale

** Broker * Sales Representative

“The province has a number of policies and regulations which are consistent with our planning decisions. This helps to direct growth to fullyserviced settlements while protecting agricultural and heritage lands,” says Burton. “Because we are experiencing significant growth, it is important that we maintain the small-town character and charm of our communities and provide a balance of residential growth, usually followed by commercial growth.”

For Clearview Township, ‘smart development’ means ‘smart growth,’ which includes higher densities, a variety of housing options, walkable neighbourhoods (including trails) and transit. “To meet the housing demand, a variety of singles, semis and townhomes are being developed, and we permit apartments in homes,” says Burton. “Our new Official Plan, currently in progress, will be looking at how to address the ‘missing middle’ by encouraging or requiring developers to build more modest homes, around 1,000 to 1,500 square feet.”

COLLINGWOOD As with other Southern Georgian Bay municipalities, the Town of Collingwood experienced a significant increase in development activity in 2019, with 691 building permits issued for 244 single-family homes, eight semi-detached homes, 135 townhomes and 304 apartments.

According to Collingwood’s senior planner, Mark Bryan, this breakdown continues a trend seen over

the past years towards fewer single-family homes.

As examples, Bryan cites three new developments currently under review: Blue Fairway Phases 5 and 6, consisting of 257 units (apartment buildings and townhomes); Wyldewood Creek (168 condominium apartments); and Panorama North, comprising 756 units including 122 singles, 588 townhomes, 219 apartments, an elementary school block and a park.

Meanwhile, The Shipyards will be releasing its final phase, Collingwood Quay, in the spring of 2021. This will be a modern six-storey, 85-unit condominium building on the harbour, featuring one- and two-bedroom suites with unobstructed water views, contemporary finishes with a “Scandinavian flair,” ground-floor retail shops and generous amenities.

“Collingwood Quay condos will correspond with the insatiable appetite for living in the core of Collingwood, on the water,” says Shipyards sales representative Tara Parsons, noting that the complex currently has a population of 230-300, with the likelihood of growing to 500 in the future. “Our clients are people 55-plus who are downsizing and looking for a walkability lifestyle close to downtown and the Farmers’ Market. And we continue to see multi-generational purchases – parents investing in a property that accommodates their extended family’s full spectrum of year-round needs.”

Another multi-unit complex is taking shape in Collingwood’s Balmoral Village community. Royal Windsor, from developer Sherwood Homes, is a

five-storey, 132-unit condominium featuring one and two-bedroom suites ranging from 660 to 1,900 square feet, priced from $350,000 to $900,000. It is currently in sales, with the grand opening of its showroom scheduled for March 7.

“Royal Windsor is a project designed to appeal to people in their 50s and 60s wishing to downsize for the right size,” says sales and marketing manager Jennifer Muller. “They’re looking for all the comforts of home – space, good design, storage, walk-in closets – while taking advantage of the fourseason lifestyle they desire in a great, high-demand destination,” says Muller. “Our suites are curated to complement lifestyles and, for those who need it, we have quite a few barrier-free units available.”

How is Collingwood balancing its demand for housing and growth with sustainability? Senior planner Mark Bryan answers the question as follows: “Collingwood has been identified on the provincial Growth Plan as a Primary Settlement Area with policies to support the creation of complete urban communities. Essentially, the Growth Plan lays out a framework for creating a more liveable, compact, and complete urban structure with good design and built form that supports economic and environmental benefits, including protection of the natural environment from the impacts of growth, while providing amenities for residents and visitors alike.

“Our planning policies are supportive of sustainable building, meaning density and

We need a closer look.

R

adiologists, Surgeons and Family Doctors are just some of the many medical professionals who look closely at x-ray images to diagnose and care for their patients every day.

Last year, CGMH Doctors ordered over 32,000 x-rays to take a closer look at everything from respiratory problems to digestive tract disorders and broken bones.

Exceptional care first requires a fast and accurate diagnosis. Clear, detailed images are a must.

The x-ray machine at CGMH has been in use 24 hours per day for 12 years and has reached the end of its useful lifespan. A new x-ray machine will provide better image quality, have the potential for a lower dose of radiation and be ergonomically designed for the comfort of patients and staff.

Please help your physician get the closest, clearest look at your x-ray.

G&M HOSPITAL

FOUNDATION 44

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

To make your gift, visit www.CollingwoodHospital.ca

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

With high development activity, primarily in the areas of Craigleith, Blue Mountain and Lora Bay, we identified as a primary focus the need to be completely transparent, engage with the community and keep people continually informed about the status of projects. This includes access to complete information on our website, including staff reports, public documents and the latest plans. We are coordinating efforts across town departments to make sure that we are not overextending ourselves with respect to services and infrastructure.

Nathan Westendorp, Town of The Blue Mountains intensification targets, complete communities and compact urban form. The town’s updated Official Plan will strengthen our ability to balance sustainability with growth.”

THE BLUE MOUNTAINS Following a drop in 2018 from the previous year, The Blue Mountains saw substantial increases in 2019 in the number of new residential units built and total construction value, according to director

of planning and development services Nathan Westendorp: 320 compared to 201 in 2018, valued at $181 million versus $161 million in the previous year.

As with other municipalities, new development continues to escalate year after year, which can be an issue for some of the Town’s residents. Concerned about insufficient infrastructure and increased traffic resulting from rapid residential development growth, The Blue Mountains Ratepayers Association is pressuring council to complete a drainage plan and a transportation plan as integral components

of the town’s overall Strategic Plan. Without these, the group would like to see a moratorium placed on future development proposals.

“Growth continues to be a hot topic,” says Westendorp. “With relatively high development activity, primarily in the areas of Craigleith, Blue Mountain and Lora Bay, the town identified as a primary focus the need to be completely transparent, engage with the community and keep people continually informed about the status of projects.

This includes access to complete information on our

JOSH DOLAN

PERSONAL | PROFESSIONAL PROGRESSIVE REAL ESTATE SERVICES

REAL ESTATE BROKER

MONACO - $725,400 Collingwood’s Premier condo development. 2 bdrm/2 bath, 1182 sf. w/private balcony, underground parking and exclusive amenities. Breathtaking views of Collingwood, Blue Mountain + Georgian Bay.

23 BUCKINGHAM BLVD - $950,000 Stunning 4 bdrm/4 bath family home on a private 1/2 acre lot close to Collingwood. Three master bdrm suites hdwd flrs, vaulted ceilings, wood burning f/p. Heated floors, multi-level deck, hot tub & 2-car garage.

BLUESKI GEORGE CRESCENT - $895,000 Aspen model 4 bdrm, 3.5 bath townhouse. Features an open concept kitch/dining/living rm, hardwood flooring, stone fireplace. Master bdroom w/large walk-in closet + ensuite, + 2 lg. deck areas w/hot tub.

GEORGIAN BAY VIEWS- $729,000 Renovated 4 bdrm/2 bath home on 5+ acres. Open concept kit/din/liv, main flr master w/ensuite, heated det. workshop. Convenient location north of Ravenna, close to Thornbury and amenities.

100 ACRES - LOT 27 GREY ROAD 40 - $1,275,000 Conveniently located at Grey Rd 40/Grey Rd 2. Privacy of country living yet just minutes to Thornbury, Georgian Bay Club + Georgian Peaks ski club.

Also zoned for an Executive 18 Hole Golf Course.

17-15 DAWSON DRIVE - $295,000 Bright cozy 2 bed, 2 bath upper unit at Living Stone Resort, Collingwood. Take advantage of the resort amenities, rec centre pool, tennis and golf course for an additional fee. Centrally --located west side of C‘wood.

PERSONAL | PROFESSIONAL | PROGRESSIVE | REAL ESTATE SERVICES

TOP

National Gross Sales

2%

INDIVIDUALLY

Royal LePage 2019

TOP 3% National Sales 2013-2018

NOW is a great time to SELL. Let me PERSONALLY advise you on BUYING and SELLING in the Georgian Triangle.

joshdolan.com SIERRA WOODLANDS - $619,000 3 bdrm/2.5 bath townhome on Blueski George Cres. Large kitchen, open concept liv/din w/hdwd flrs & gas f/p, large deck facing green space.

Located near Craigleith, Alpine & Georgian Peaks ski clubs.

josh@joshdolan.com | 705-446-8404 ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

45

Rebecca Medeiros, BAcc, CPA, CA Baker Tilly SGB LLP Chartered Professional Accountants are pleased to announce that Rebecca Medeiros has completed her Chartered Professional Accountant, Chartered Accountant (CPA, CA) designation requirements! She successfully passed the CPA examinations after receiving her Bachelor of Accounting Honours degree from Brock University.

Rebecca has been with the firm since 2015, where she started as a co-op student, and was hired on full-time in January 2018 after graduating from Brock University. Rebecca is available to provide auditing, accounting and taxation services to businesses, individuals, not-for-profit organizations and municipalities.

Baker Tilly SGB LLP is a regional chartered accounting firm with more than 65 staff and offices in Collingwood, Meaford, Owen Sound and Walkerton.

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AUDIT • TAX • ADVISORY

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We’re getting ready for a tsunami this year with the volume of new developments and approvals in the works. Addressing sustainability, we have completed a service structure update to our Official Plan, taken a hard look at our growth demands, and given priority to redevelopments and intensifications of existing properties.

Over the next years, we plan to continue servicing upgrades and add attainable housing, a long-term care home and visitor accommodations to our portfolio.

Rob Armstrong, Municipality of Meaford

186 Erie Street Suite 202 | Collingwood 705-445-2470 WWW.ERIESTREETDENTAL.COM 46

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

website, including staff reports, public documents and the latest plans.”

Balancing demand with sustainability (environmental, social and financial) is a vital component of the Official Plan, Westendorp adds.

“The market remains strong, and we have enough supply, with a lot

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

CREEMORE GEM Custom log home recently upgraded inside & out. Master on main + 2 beds on 2nd floor.

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REGAN

Sales Representative

Site plan of Aquavil, a 63-acre waterfront development in Craigleith that will feature a mix of residences.

of properties available and a future growth reserve (in secondary plan areas) as identified in the Plan. And we are coordinating efforts across town departments to make sure that we are not overextending ourselves with respect to services and infrastructure,” he notes.

“The final piece of the puzzle is attainable housing. We have purchased the site of the former Foodland building in Thornbury. We are now completing initial studies and will move forward with initial public consultations, asking residents what they would like to see on the property.” says Westendorp. “In addition to this site, council would also like to see attainable housing in the Craigleith area.”

Speaking of Craigleith, The Blue Mountains has granted draft plan approval to Aquavil, a 63-acre waterfront development from Royalton Homes. Characterized by Westendorp as “a strong project in a designated settlement area with the potential to be a catalyst for the town,” the development will include an estimated 340 residential units, ranging from townhomes to semi-detached homes and condominiums on the water, along with a 6,500 square-foot clubhouse and 27 acres of natural forest with trails and benches.

“It’s a master community for everyone,” says Royalton co-owner Samer Chaaya. “Our vision was to create a resort-style community that’s different from standard subdivisions in blocks. Aquavil will feature clusters of residences with green spaces in behind – no squares, non-linear, organic.”

Aquavil’s first phase, the west end, will include 234 units – towns, semis and bungalow-style condos – on the lake, with private terraces on the rooftop level and two waterfront pools, Chaaya adds.

“Future development in the east end will include a commercial area,

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47

The time for Owen Sound is now. We’re a great community from a service perspective, with jobs, relatively affordable housing, lifestyle options, a hospital, Georgian College, recreation centres and art galleries. As to managing our growth, we have a positive environmental program and a focus on hard infrastructure, such as storm water management, sidewalks and bicycle lanes. And our wastewater and drinking water capabilities are only at 50 per cent capacity.

Pam Coulter, City of Owen Sound a restaurant and a small retail convenience store, some detached lots and other residences pending approval. We’re hoping to break ground this fall, with occupancy in 2021.”

MEAFORD “We’re getting ready for a tsunami this year with the volume of new developments and approvals in the works,” says Rob Armstrong, Meaford’s chief administrative officer and director of development and environmental services, noting that there are

48

ON THE BAY

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currently approximately 2,000 units in various stages of the process.

According to Armstrong, the municipality is currently working with purchasers and developers on several projects: the former Stanley Knight waterfront site including residential and accommodation units; approximately 200 downtown attainable singles and towns priced from the mid$200,000s to the low $300,000s; a 40-unit life lease condo project at the Meaford Golf Club, a five-storey condominium on Collingwood Street; and what could be the mother of all developments in Southern

Georgian Bay – a proposed 1,500-unit project on four hundred acres of land west of Christie Beach Rd. from Parkbridge Lifestyle Communities.

“Right now, we have significant demand for housing, with limited supply,” says Armstrong.

“Lots of people are looking to downsize here, but there’s not much available. Addressing sustainability, we have completed a service structure update to our Official Plan, taken a hard look at our growth demands, and given priority to redevelopments and intensifications of existing properties. Over the next years, we plan to continue servicing upgrades and

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

add attainable housing, a long-term care home and visitor accommodations to our portfolio.”

Armstrong adds that, while retirees are still the primary purchasers of new housing in Meaford, young families and entrepreneurs continue to be attracted by the town’s amenities and affordability, along with the construction of the new “superschool” (scheduled for completion in 2021) and a new library (to be completed this summer or early fall.)

GREY HIGHLANDS South of Meaford and The Blue Mountains, the mostly rural Municipality of Grey Highlands is experiencing considerably less growth from a development perspective than other municipalities, with the majority centred in its primary “settlement areas” of Markdale and Flesherton. Here, new developments are restricted to infilling projects.

Director of planning and building services Michael Benner reports two major residential projects in Markdale: Devonlea Homes – a 300-unit project consisting of townhomes and single-family homes; and Markdale Highlands – 55 townhomes in phase one and another 52 townhomes plus an apartment building in phase two. In addition to residences, a new hospital and a replacement school are planned.

As to future building, Benner anticipates slow and steady growth over the next years. “Demand for new homes is fairly healthy,” he says. “Right now, developers are testing the market.”

OWEN SOUND Situated on the western end of our region, Owen Sound is experiencing its own development boom.

Total building permits for residential units issued in 2019 amounted to 145 compared to only 37 in the previous year, and construction values in 2019 were up 48 per cent over the previous year at almost $47 million – the city’s second-best year ever.

“The time for Owen Sound is now,” says Pam Coulter, director of community services. “We’re a great community from a service perspective, with jobs, relatively affordable housing, lifestyle options, a hospital, Georgian College (which will soon be offering a degree nursing program), recreation centres and art galleries. “As to managing our growth, we have a positive environmental program and a focus on hard infrastructure, such as storm water management, sidewalks and bicycle lanes.

And our wastewater and drinking water capabilities are only at 50 per cent capacity.”

Is Southern Georgian Bay’s explosion of new residential developments due solely to the growing popularity of our region, or are province-wide economic factors coming into play? The recent Housing Market Outlook for Ontario by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), reports that many builders in the province virtually stopped construction in 2017 and 2018 because of the Mortgage Stress Test rules.

Development activity stabilized and began to improve last year and is forecast to rebound in activity in 2020 and 2021, primarily due to continued low interest rates and the steady growth of Ontario’s population. And the number of multiunit residential buildings is forecast to be double that of single-family homes.

Change is inevitable. With increasing residential development and a greater variety of housing, Southern Georgian Bay is poised for dramatic growth, which will alter the region’s populations, housing mix, traffic, services and ultimately its character. Fortunately, public input and vigilance are keeping our respective municipalities on their toes, with plans and procedures in place to ensure sustainable growth for the future. ❧

HAVE YOUR SAY! What do you think of the growth in new home developments in our region? Are our municipalities doing enough to ensure sustainable and ‘smart’ development?

What about infrastructure? Let us know your thoughts! Send a letter to readermail@ onthebaymagazine.com and we’ll publish your comments in our next issue.

We make house calls!

Can I do this myself?

Are maintenance plans worth it?

Do I repair or do I replace?

How much is this going to cost?

We hear these questions all the time and more importantly, we can answer them!

We have been serving Southern Georgian Bay for over 65 years. Whether you are looking for assistance on a new build, service or maintenance, you can depend on Clarksburg Contractors for all of your heating, cooling, ventilation, plumbing, and electrical needs.

We also provide service, maintenance and installation on indoor air quality, water treatment, generators, geothermal and refrigeration equipment.

Our skilled technicians are licenced and trained to work on all makes and models (except oil).

Whether it’s residential, commercial or institutional, we will be there. Give us a call!

519.599.2123 / 705.444.6026 www.clarksburgcontractors.com ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

49

At OslerBrook, Membership has its Privileges!

Seize the opportunity to join one of Canada’s finest private golf clubs.

OslerBrook offers a unique combination of beauty, pleasure and challenge for golfers of every handicap. This environmentally responsible championship course with its soaring timber and frame clubhouse offers both fine dining and casual patio service and all the amenities of a truly private club. Yes, membership does have its privileges at OslerBrook.

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Bill MacWilliam, President

DEVELOPMENT GUIDE

New Homes On The Bay is pleased to present our annual guide to new home developments in Southern Georgian Bay currently at the sales stage ALLISTON

lounge and two inviting restaurants that range from casual to gourmet. Within the Briar Hill community, the 16,000-square-foot community centre is a social hub where homeowners can participate in daily events, enjoy a game of billiards or shuffleboard, or simply relax in the sunshine on the garden patio.

BRIAR HILL Developer:

Briar Hill

Location:

Alliston

Offering:

Fully detached homes, semi-detached bungalows, bungalows with lofts and townhomes with openconcept floorplans, as well as superior features and finishes.

# of Units:

16 in current Hillside release. New release of home sites coming in summer 2020.

Amenities:

Situated adjacent to the Nottawasaga Resort, new residents are offered a one-year golf membership to the resort’s two award-winning golf courses. The resort also provides plenty of leisure options for staying in shape within their 70,000-square-foot fitness club, which includes a fully equipped gym, an indoor pool with a sauna and a whirlpool, as well as indoor racquetball courts, massage therapy and six kilometres of walking trails. An on-site arena, with two NHL-size hockey rinks, hosts organized leagues throughout the year. The resort also features a

Price Range: Starting from the $400s.

Targeting:

Active adults looking for an all-encompassing lifestyle.

Phone:

705-435-5503

Email:

info@briarhill.on.ca

Website:

YourBriarHill.ca

THE BLUE MOUNTAINS 11 BAY STREET THIRD PHASE lifestylesnorth.com

AQUAVIL aquavil.ca

Blue Vista by Royalton Homes is offering 135 ultra-modern singles and semis in The Blue Mountains.

ON THE BAY

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51

with Dr. Vera Kohut Consultant Medical Director CARP Health 360

Q A

How exactly does CARP Health 360 protect me in a case of a medical emergency? I’m not sure how this really works.

Maria Horner, CARP Member since 2000 A medical emergency can happen to any of us at any time. If you’re unable to communicate, your CARP Health 360 emergency wallet card gives doctors and first responders the information they need to treat you safely, accurately, and quickly.

Log in to CARP Health 360 and add your emergency information (doctor, contacts, medications, allergies) to your profile. Print your wallet card and carry it with you. When first responders follow the directions on the card, they will be granted limited-time access to a snapshot of your health record. This snapshot identifies the most critical information they need to provide you with prompt and accurate treatment, and to notify your emergency contacts.

THE ARROWHEAD COLLECTION solcorpdevelopments.com

It’s a great feature that’s included with the CARP Health 360 service, and is FREE via your CARP membership.

BAYSIDE BY CALIBREX

Please call, email, or online chat with us if you have other questions.

BLUMONT

calibrex.ca

Dr. Vera Kohut, Consultant Medical Director, CARP Health 360

1-888-245-0580

ON THE BAY

bluemountaintowns.ca

BLUE VISTA

health360@carp.ca

SPRING 2020

C01.JRK.004_CARP Q&A Ad Half Page Third Vertical ON THE BAY - FALL 2019.indd 1

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BLUE MOUNTAIN SEMI-TOWNS

Take control of your health.

Visit CARP.ca/health360 today and get started!

52

Summit View by Devonleigh Homes has 406 units at Poplar Sideroad and High Street in Collingwood.

2019-09-09 4:39 PM

Developer:

Royalton Homes has been a Developer and builder in the Georgian Bay area since 1998.

Location:

The Town of The Blue Mountains, nestled between the award-winning Scandinave Spa and the golf greens of Monterra.

Offering:

This master-planned community of approximately 135 ultra modern singles and semis, set on 50- to 60-foot lots, offers contemporary open concept spaces with two-, three- and four-bedroom designs.

Every element inside and outside the homes of Blue Vista is intentionally contemporary. Rooftop terraces complete with views of the mountain and golf course.

Amenities:

The homes at Blue Vista create a community neighbourhood, while also giving you and your family

DEVELOPMENT GUIDE

COUNTRY MANOR NEAR CREEMORE

Beautiful home on 99.4 acres with views. Big modern country kitchen w/walkout to screened garden room overlooking pool and tennis court + so many extras.

Generous home for extended family and friends. A must see! $2,995,000

‘QUIET PINE FARM’ IN MULMUR

1910 renovated farmhouse with character on 37.5 acres. Immaculately kept home with original flooring, Clawfoot tub, separate dining room & warm and cozy family room addition. Fantastic family home w/over 30 workable acres. $975,000

(705) 466-2115

Visit... Explore... Shop...

Explore The Seriously Fun & Whimsical

privacy in a natural setting. Community amenities include a clubhouse, pool and hot tub where people can connect while enjoying the beautiful mountain views, fresh air and nature. Blue Vista is just moments to the slopes and only minutes to Georgian Bay. Blue Mountain offers family fun and excitement all year round, with the mountain itself as the crowning jewel.

Price Range: From the high $500s Targeting

Everyone from young families to empty nesters looking for a seasonal home or forever home.

Phone:

705-293-9000

Email:

sales@bluevista.ca

Website:

bluevista.ca

LaBellaVitaDecor.com 519-400-9848 53 Arthur Street West Thornbury (Across from Tim’s)

Your one stop shopping experience • Deli Meats & Cheeses • Fruits, Veggies & Desserts • Sushi

105 Arthur St. W., Thornbury 519-599-3000 Open 7am to 10pm daily, including long weekends

“Don’t forget your Green Bags”

No single use plastic bags as of January 2020

THE BUNGALOWS AT PEAKS RIDGE solcorpdevelopments.com

CRAIGLEITH RIDGE Craigleithridge.com

CRESTVIEW ESTATES AT BLUE MOUNTAIN terrabrookhomes.ca

519-599-7300

Hwy#26 Thornbury

Specialized in Manufacturing and Installing Quartz and Granite countertops.

THE CHALETS AT GEORGIAN SHORES georgian-shores.ca

LORA BAY THE COTTAGES COLLECTION sherwoodhomesltd.com

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

53

LORA BAY THE MASTERS COLLECTION sherwoodhomesltd.com

MOUNTAIN HOUSE AT WINDFALL PHASE 3 MENTION THIS AD FOR

Creperie & French Cuisine FULLY LICENSED

20% OFF

Developer:

Georgian Communities

Location:

Town of Blue Mountains (corner of Osler Bluff Side Road & Mountain Road)

Offering:

One-bedroom + den, two-bedroom, two-bedroom + loft, and three-bedroom condominiums.

# of Units:

230

Amenities:

Hot and cold pools, après lodge, sauna, fitness and relaxation rooms, bike tuning area.

Alcohol not included.

Reservations Recommended 138 Main St. W., Unit 103 Shelburne, 519-306-3600

From ceiling to floor… and more!

We are your WHOLE Home Store.

FLOORING WALL COVERINGS KITCHENS & BATHS WINDOWS & DOORS RENOVATIONS

Price Range: Low $300,000s to high $400,000s Phone:

705-293-0954

Email:

sales@mountainhousewindfall.ca

Website:

mountainhousewindfall.ca

NIPISSING RIDGE IV picot@rogers.com

PEAKS MEADOWS locationsnorth.com/communities/blue-mountains/peak-meadows

THE PRIVATE RESIDENCES AT THE GEORGIAN BAY CLUB privateresatgbc.com or gbcbayview.com

278 Cook St., Meaford • 519-938-4303 meafordcarperts@bellnet.ca • meafordcarpets.com

MeaforD CARPETS

&

INTERIORS

THE RESIDENCES OF PEAKS BAY III peaksbay.com

THORNBURY MEADOWS thornburymeadows.ca

TOWNS OF THORNBURY townsofthornbury.com

TRAILSHEAD www.edenoak.com

WINDFALL AT BLUE MOUNTAIN PHASE 4 Developer:

Georgian Communities

Location:

104 Yellow Birch Crescent, The Blue Mountains

Offering:

Semi-detached, bungalows, bungalows with loft, two-storey.

# of Units:

609

Amenities:

The Shed to be built on site (pools, sauna, amenity building with indoor/outdoor fireplace).

Price Range: Mid $500,000s to High $700,000s Targeting:

Active lifestyles, second home, families, retirees

Phone:

705-293-0954

Email:

sales@windfallatblue.com

Website:

windfallatblue.com

WINDROSE ESTATES windroseestates.ca

COLLINGWOOD BALMORAL CONDOS balmoralcondos.ca

COLLINGWOOD QUAY CONDOMINIUMS

54

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

Developer:

FRAM + Slokker

Location:

The New Shipyards, Side Launch Way & The Terminus of Hurontario Street

DEVELOPMENT GUIDE

On The Bay Magazine is pleased to donate this space to a deserving charity or non-profit in our community.

For more information, please contact Jeffrey Shearer, Publisher, at (705) 444-9192.

bowls for beds

Date To Be Announced 11th Annual Bowls for Beds at the Georgian Bay Hotel & Conference Centre Vision: “Transforming the lives of youth at risk of homelessness” Mission: “Home Horizon transforms the lives of youth at risk of homelessness by providing them with the opportunity to rebuild their lives and achieve their full potential”

Despite it being a relatively invisible problem in our community, youth homelessness does exist.

Briar Hill in Alliston (top) is offering semi-detached bungalows, bungalows with lofts and townhomes.

Above, the detached homes at Wasaga Urban by Mamta Homes are close to local amenities.

Offering:

Waterfront mid-rise luxury with 85 condos suites: one bedrooms, one plus den, two and two plus den.

Register on the website to have priority invitation.

Amenities:

Party room, gym, hot tub

Price Range: Not available Targeting:

Aged 55+ for those looking to downsize

Phone:

Tara Parsons 705-888-8272

Email:

info@collingwoodquay.com

Website:

collingwoodquaycondos.com

GRANDEUR sunvalehomes.com

INDIGO ESTATES, PHASE II indigoestates.ca

In July 2017 we opened the Barbara Weider House (BWH) dedicated to youth aged 16-24 facing homelessness. The Barbara Weider House is a very special place that is about transformation.

Youth come there for a variety of reasons including abuse, neglect, addictions and mental health issues. When people like you support the House it allows us to provide programs to truly transform their lives. In addition to providing safe, stable and affordable transitional housing, we provide health and life skills education, mentorship, and individualized support plans for local, at-risk youth that helps them to set realistic goals and teaches them skills that last a lifetime. The BWH is the only facility in our community dedicated to serving youth at risk of homelessness.

Currently there is a high demand for the program.

Bowls for Beds is a magical event that brings together over 500 members of the community in support of the amazing work Home Horizon does. In preparation for the event, local school children learn about homelessness in our community and paint the bowls for the event. Ticket purchasers receive a bowl at the event and will sample a variety of delicious soups prepared by more than 20 local chefs in the South Georgian Bay area.

For tickets: homehorizon.ca/events • 705-445-5478 ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

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Come for a Walk In Collingwood!

EVERY SATURDAY MORNING Starting May 16 8:30 a.m. -1:00 p.m.

Collingwood Downtown

Farmers’ Market

• More than 70 local vendors featuring a wide range of freshly picked seasonal produce, naturally raised meat, preserves, baked goods and more • Corner of Second and Pine Streets in historic Downtown Collingwood

LOCKHAVEN

NEW EXPERIENCES EVERY MONTH

sunvalehomes.com

MONACO monacolife.ca

April

Choose from several self-guided discovery walks, rich with stories and sights.

EXPLORE THE HARBOUR April-October fun activities A guide to all the d the harbour available in and aroun

HERITAGE WALKS

Downtown Heritage Walk

Travelling through Collingwood’s history

May

Explore historic downtown Collingwood and the ‘art on the street’ including 20+ handpainted chairs.

MOUNTAINCROFT, FINAL PHASE Developer:

Grandview Homes

Location:

67 Clark Street (southwest side of Collingwood)

Offering:

Two-storey, bungalows & bungalows with loft ranging from 1,270 to 3,650 sq. ft. Freehold fully detached Craftsman-style homes with full brick or full wood siding exterior.

# of Units:

68 units in Phase 6 (final phase)

Amenities:

Brand new park with tobogganing hill, skating rink, picnic tables with pergola, swings & climbing centres.

Targeting:

First-time buyers, families, retirees & seasonal.

Phone:

705-444-0333

Email:

mountaincroftcollingwood@gmail.com

Website:

grandviewhomesnorth.com

THE NEW SHIPYARDS thenewshipyards.com

PERFECT WORLD perfectworldcollingwood.com

ROYAL WINDSOR

June

A traditional tribute to this glorious country on July 1.

Experience Collingwood

www.Collingwood.ca/ExperienceCollingwood 56

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

Developer:

Sherwood Homes Ltd.

Location:

Balmoral Village, Collingwood

Offering:

Wide selection of suites, 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom + den options, modern open-concept designs ranging from 660 – 1,900 sq. ft., featuring spacious balconies.

Amenities:

An 8,000-square-foot Residents’ Clubhouse complete with a wide range of recreational and social amenities. A planned 20,000-square-foot Medical/Wellness Centre with complete medical facilities and the support of a caring staff of health professionals. Pathways and sidewalks connecting to the Georgian Trail and Black Ash Creek Trail,

DEVELOPMENT GUIDE

In Style In Collingwood!

Mountain House at Windfall is offering 230 modern mountain-chalet style suites in Phase 3.

with links to the walking and biking trails within the Town of Collingwood. Retirement and assisted living services available on-site. A central location within easy walking distance to downtown Collingwood’s shops, restaurants, cinemas, restaurants, as well as the public golf course at Cranberry Resort.

Price Range: Pricing and suite availability details available upon request.

Targeting:

An active adult community for those 55+

Phone:

416- 271-4223

Email:

mfeldman@sherwoodhomesltd.com

Website:

royalwindsorcondos.ca

Spring is in the air - time to update yourself and your personal space! Whether it’s the perfect pair of jeans, comfy walking shoes, a unique table lamp or a fresh paint colour, Downtown Collingwood’s many fashionforward boutiques and home décor and design shops have the latest spring trends you’re looking for – with friendly and knowledgeable staff ready to help you on your personalized journey of discovery!

It’s all waiting for you!

THE RUSTIC COLLECTION rusticcollection.ca

SUMMIT VIEW Developer:

Devonleigh Homes Inc.

Location:

42 Plewes Drive (Poplar Sideroad & High Street, Collingwood)

Offering:

Townhomes, semis and single detached homes.

# of Units:

406

Amenities:

Park, trails and mountain views.

Price Range: $399,900 – $675,900 Targeting:

Entry-level, professionals and families to retirement homeowners

Phone:

705-443-8483

Email:

sales@devonleighhomes.com

Website:

devonleighhomes.com

THE VIEW AT BLUE FAIRWAY theviewcondos.ca

WATERSTONE

Photography – VAIYA, Haven Home & Gift, FAD INC. Farrow Arcaro Design

waterstonetownes.com

WYLDEWOOD CREEK wyldewoodcondos.ca

CollingwoodDowntown.com ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

57

GOLF VIEW ESTATES rogersenterprises.com

TERRACEWOOD www.terracewood.ca

MARKDALE MARKDALE HIGHLANDS sunfieldhomes.com

OWEN SOUND COBBLE BEACH GOLF RESORT COMMUNITY livecobblebeach.com Phase 6 of Stonebridge By The Bay in Wasaga Beach features 13 loft townhomes with two-car garages.

NINTH AVENUE ESTATES soundlifestyles.com

NORTH RIDGE HOMES

CREEMORE

northridgehomes.ca

HOMETOWN CREEMORE

THE SYDENHAM

hometowncreemore.ca

sydenhamcondos.com

THE MEADOWS OF CREEMORE

TELFER CREEK

meadowsofcreemore.ca

bremonthomes.com

STAYNER

MEAFORD GATES OF KENT

ASHTON MEADOWS

reidsheritagehomes.com

ashtonmeadows.ca

Experience the Service First Difference 4.3

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YOUR SERVICE FIRST MANAGEMENT TEAM

Light vacuum

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705-445-2740 | bluemountainchrysler.com 9950 Hwy 26 E, Collingwood, ON Follow our journey:

58

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

DEVELOPMENT GUIDE

NOTTAWASAGA STATION

Price Range: $564,900 to $584,900

mynextstop.ca

Targeting:

Families, retirees, etc.

Phone:

705-422-0880

Email:

laura@mystonebridge.ca

Website:

mystonebridge.ca

SIMCOE GARDENS www.MamtaHomes.com

RIDGEVIEW ESTATES

SUNNIDALE WASAGA BEACH

www.staynerestates.com

redberryhomes.ca

STAYNER EASY LIVING manorgatehomes.com

THE VILLAS AT WASAGA MEADOWS Villasatwasagameadows.ca

STAYNER WEST aspenridgehomes.com

TRILLIUM FOREST TOWNS www.zancorhomes.com

WASAGA BEACH

WASAGA HARMONY HEIGHTS mamtahomes.com

GEORGIAN SANDS georgiansands.com

WASAGA URBAN

SKY BLUE mybremont.ca

STERLING ESTATES modernwasaga.com

Developer:

Mamta Developments Inc, (Mamta Homes)

Location:

10 Lisbon Court, Wasaga Beach

Offering:

Beautiful, upscale and modern lifestyle detached homes.

Amenities:

Close to all town amenities and near local area attractions

Price Range: $669,900 to $679,000

STONEBRIDGE BY THE BAY, PHASE 6 Developer:

Stonebridge Building Group Inc.

Location:

River Road & Beachway Trail, Wasaga Beach

Offering:

Targeting:

People looking for modern upscale homes in a four seasons community of Wasaga Beach

Loft townhomes with two car garages.

Phone:

705-888-7098

# of Units:

13

Email:

Wasaga@MamtaHomes.com

Amenities:

Private beach club and saltwater pool.

Website:

mamtahomes.com

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“OslerBrook’s relationship with the Georgian Triangle Humane Society began in 2014. In addition to supporting the GTHS, OslerBrook Golf Club has also proudly received an international award for its water management, environment and preservation of wildlife. It was only natural for us to support the exceptional work of the Georgian Triangle Humane Society Team. The care and effort we witness in both the staff and volunteers is the kind of integrity we could support.”

Bill MacWilliam (the one on the right)

President OslerBrook Golf Club

events@gths.ca

Proud Premier Sponsor of the 2020 Furball Gala

705-445-5204 ext 228

Shaken, Not Stirred

Save The Date – June 19, 2020 – Bear Estate, Living Water Resorts For ticket information, visit gths.ca/furball-gala-2020

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

59

ARTS & CULTURE

Stage Near You

A

by JANET LEES photography by JESSICA CRANDLEMIRE

Mark Cassius performs in Theatre Collingwood’s “Love Cabaret,” held at the First Presbyterian Church in February.

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Our local performing arts venues are the perfect places to take in a show, with top-notch entertainment ranging from live music and theatre to films and festivals

W

hen was the last time you caught a show at Toronto’s Scotiabank Centre or Mirvish Theatre and came home raving about the venue? Sure, the performance might have been great, but the traffic, the parking, the crowds, the ambiance ... they leave something to be desired.

Not so in Southern Georgian Bay. We have a wealth of intimate, historic and memorable venues just minutes from your front door, where you can rendezvous with your neighbours

and enjoy an afternoon or evening of stellar entertainment that goes far beyond the sights and sounds on stage.

From beautiful churches and cosy small halls to classic vaudeville theatres and opera houses, we are blessed with an abundance of performing arts venues that not only add to the experience, they become part of it.

Here are five of our region’s venue stories, plus exciting news from a grassroots group of locals looking to add more to the mix.

Editor’s Note: As we went to press, some events were being cancelled due to concerns about the COVID-19 virus. Please check the websites in the sidebar for the latest scheduling announcements and changes.

ON THE BAY

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TOP: Rehearsing for the Love Cabaret at First Presbyterian Church in Collingwood (l-r): Shealyn Angus, Scott Hurst, Jeremy Walmsley, Laura Aylan-Parker, Saveria David Ball, Renee Cingolani.

ABOVE: Renee Cingolani accompanies the performers on piano. RIGHT: Theatre Collingwood executive director Erica Angus looks on.

FAR RIGHT: Jeremy Walmsley performs.

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ARTS & CULTURE

The Show Must Go On! After its 15-year relationship with the Gayety Theatre ended last year, Theatre Collingwood found itself scrambling to find an alternate venue.

Executive director Erica Angus sprang into action and came up with a creative solution just in the nick of time, booking multiple venues for the 2019 and 2020 seasons including the Collingwood Legion, First Presbyterian Church, Simcoe Street Theatre, GNE Fairgrounds and Marsh Street Centre.

Angus says there are pluses and minuses to the multiple-venue approach, which she joyfully calls “the caravan.” On the plus side, theatregoers have a chance to experience venues across the region, not just in Collingwood, and transportation issues have been solved by offering a shuttle bus for the upcoming shows at the fairgrounds and the Marsh Street Centre.

“We haven’t lost a huge number of subscribers but we’ve lost some because they’re older and they don’t want to be travelling all over the place,” says Angus. “Conversely, we’ve had some people say they think it’s really fun to be travelling, and one of the places I’ve personally enjoyed getting to know is the GNE Fairgrounds. It’s a great building there, and they have a full stage, lighting, sound, curtains, and who knew? We really, really enjoyed using it last year, and we’re looking forward to using it again this year. “My intention is to make customer service our biggest strength and try to make these different venues fun.”

Angus is supportive of the new grassroots movement to build a performing arts centre in Collingwood (see story on page 79), but while that would offer Theatre Collingwood a home, it won’t happen overnight and Angus hopes to find a single venue that will work in the interim.

“What I would like to do is find some facility where we can hold everything next year,” says Angus. “It takes a lot of manpower and a lot of extra work and extra marketing dollars to have all of these different venues – last year was a very expensive year for us – so ideally I’d like to find one venue we can use until the new facility is built, which I believe will take at least five years with all the different hands that will be involved with it.”

Angus’ dream: “I’d really like to see Theatre Collingwood in a proper theatre: a space that’s built for theatre with proper theatre lighting, proper sound, a proper stage with wings, proper dressing rooms, proper accessibility, with 300 to 500 seats ... a venue that would really create a great experience for people. And for now, we plug along.”

With Angus’ enthusiasm and resourcefulness, one thing is certain: the show will go on.

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

63

Automotive SERVICES Southern Georgian Bay

• AIR CONDITIONING • TUNE UPS • BRAKES • TIRES • BATTERIES • EXHAUST • ELECTRICAL WORK • FRONT END/4-WHEEL ALIGNMENT • RADIATORS & COOLING SYSTEMS • CARBURETOR & FUEL INJ. SYSTEMS • SPRINGS & SHOCKS • TRAILER HITCHES • D.O.T. SAFETY INSPECTIONS • COURTESY PICK-UP AND DROP-OFFS Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm | Sat 8am - 12pm 345 First St., Collingwood | 705-446-3480

Spring & Summer Car Care Tips

• Give the vinyl in your car a good cleaning with a vinyl treatment product to help protect against drying and cracking.

• A good hand wash of your vehicle is very valuable. Check the condition of your paint while you’re washing and make note of any chips or scratches and rust spots.

• Clean your windows, inside and out to increase visibility.

• If you do find some minor damage to your paint job, buy some touchup paint as soon as possible. It’s important to do anything and everything to prevent rust from forming!

• Spray the salt and dirt out of your wheel wells (a favourite hiding spot for rust).

• Inspect cooling system hoses for leaks and drive belts for cracks.

Have your antifreeze tested. It prevents your coolant from boiling in the summer.

• Check your tire pressure.

Temperature changes can affect it.

Check the condition of your tires.

Did they sustain any damage? Is there anything visibly wrong like cuts or bulges in the sidewalls?

• This is also a good time to replace worn out wiper blades.

• Keeping cool is important - both under the hood and in your vehicle. Before the temperatures start to rise, it’s a good idea to check your vehicle’s cooling system. Have your anti-freeze tested to make sure it’s up to strength. Check that your radiator pressure cap is in good condition.

• Rust could be forming where you can’t even see it, underneath the carpet. A good rug shampoo will help remove the salt from the carpet fibres. Make sure to clean the upholstery too.

• Make sure your car’s air conditioning system is also in tip top shape. You don’t want to find out in mid-July, when it’s 90 degrees in the shade that the air conditioning isn’t working!

• Check the windshield for stone chips or cracks. It often isn’t necessary to replace the entire windshield, just repair the chips.

W W W.M A S T E R M E C H A N I C.C A

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County Rd 124, Nottawa (705) 445-2782

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ARTS & CULTURE

LEFT: Carleen Haggerty sings a number at the Burlesque and Broadway event at the Marsh Street Centre. BELOW: Simon Helm and Kristin Nunes perform a seductive dance routine. BOTTOM, L-R: Anisa McCoy, Carleen Haggerty, Kelsie Kolo and Martina Speirs.

Marsh Street Centre Thanks to the ongoing efforts of a small army of volunteers, this little gem of a performing arts and community centre has helped the tiny village of Clarksburg earn its nickname, Artsburg.

“It’s just a magical place. The whole community embraces it, and it’s transforming into such a beautiful venue,” says Leslie Whitton, a member of the centre’s non-profit board. “Every event that we run is run by volunteers, we have memberships and sponsors, and everything that we make goes right back into the venue, so we’re constantly updating and improving it.”

Recent events at The Marsh, as it’s affectionately known, have run the gamut from concerts by The Celtic Kitchen Party and indie band The Sadies to a Burlesque & Broadway show, a magic and mind-reading act, a disco night, an International Women’s Day event, and a jazz show by local entertainer Dean Hollin, who is also the centre’s new artistic director.

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Another project developed by:

GEORGIAN C O M M U N I TI E S

This is Your Windfall Be a part of an inspired enclave where nature & neighbourhood are in perfect balance.

Welcome to the next phase of mountain homes nestled between Blue Mountain Resort and the award winning Scandinave Spa. A community set proudly apart yet connected by nature. Distinctive architecture inspired by Georgian Bay cabins and mountain chalets.

This is everything you want Blue Mountain living to be. This is your Windfall.

Phase 4 now selling. Visit our model homes today.

SEMIS BUNGALOWS TWO STOREYS

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ARTS & CULTURE

PHOTOS BY KRISTIN SCHNELTEN

The Marsh Street Rocks program gives kids and teens a chance to play in a band and perform on stage.

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Upcoming in April is a luau fundraising dance featuring Cabin Fever, The Marshas and Rise Architect. The tribute band Simply Queen will rock the house in May, and Toronto group Zeus performs in June with local singer/songwriter Pat Robitaille as the special guest. Tickets to most events are only $30 for members, $35 for nonmembers and $40 at the door.

In addition to staging one major fundraising event each month, The Marsh is also home to the Thornbury Community Theatre, whose next production, Hooray for Hollywood, is a musical revue running May 1-9. As if that’s not enough, there are also in-house music and theatrical programs, Marsh Street Rocks and Marsh Street Acts, plus dance and yoga classes, community events, and more.

The latest plans for improvements include a new marquee sign out front and an expanded, “pimped-up” patio in back. “We have big plans for the patio to become a whole other little venue in the summertime,” says Whitton. “We envision a garden space to host live entertainment; a summer location to gather with friends with a glass of wine or a cold beer in a well-appointed courtyard.”

Whitton’s enthusiasm reflects a sense of pride and ownership that the entire community shares.

“This place has such a heartbeat, such a life, and it transforms constantly. It’s a magnet for the community. It breathes life into the community.”

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

WELCOME TO CHALET LIVING.

LIVE E VE RY S E A S O N .

The final chapter is unfolding at Mountain House at Windfall. This exclusive mountain community has it all; the chalet lifestyle; the tranquil Nordic spa-inspired amenity area; the connecting trail system; the perfect suite design with fabulous features; spectacular views of Blue Mountain and the excitement of the Village nearby. Mountain House offers chalet living as it was meant to be.

MODERN SUITES STARTING FROM THE LOW $300’S

Another project developed by:

GEORGIAN COMMUNITIES

M O U N TA I N H O U S E W I N D F A L L . C A

ARTS & CULTURE Legendary singer/songwriter Hawksley Workman (far right) performs a sold-out show at the Marsh Street Centre with Colleen Brown on bass and Marcus Paquin on guitar.

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ARTS & CULTURE

Meaford Hall For more than a century, this majestic landmark has echoed with music, drama and debate, serving as the town’s social and cultural heart first as the opera house/town hall/library/police department (complete with jail) and now as the fully restored Meaford Hall Arts & Cultural Centre.

“It’s very intimate; with only 330 seats; you certainly have a much better experience than going to the city where the performers are so far away,” says marketing coordinator Jen Brebner. “The ambiance and acoustics are just as good or better than theatres in the city, but you don’t have to drive to the city.”

With its winning combination of Victorian accoutrements and state-of-the-art sound and lighting, the Hall always snags an impressive array of Canadian artists. The Trews, Matt Anderson, the Downchild Blues Band, Carole Pope, and comedians Ron James and The Arrogant Worms recently performed. On the roster over the next few months are Sarah Harmer, Glass Tiger, Ian Thomas, The Stampeders and Valdy. Also in the lineup are bands and artists paying tribute to George Strait, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Stompin’ Tom

Connors and Chicago, plus a family performance in April of “Frozen in Time: The Musical.”

On the playbill for live professional theatre this summer are “Rockin’ All Night,” celebrating the music and lives of Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and the Big Bopper; “Midnight Hour” showcasing R&B classics from Memphis to Motown; and Norm Foster’s lighthearted buddy comedy, “Jonas and Barry in the Home.”

Watching films at Meaford Hall is a trip back in time to the movie houses of yesteryear, and soon to be showing on the big screen are Oscar nominees “Parasite,” “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” The Farewell” and “A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood.” Speaking of films, the Hall is also the venue for the wildly popular Meaford International Film Festival (MIFF), which features four films, four dinners, four parties and four matinées over four days every Labour Day weekend.

Fall is the busiest time at Meaford Hall, but there’s always something happening year-round, says Brebner. “Last year we had our largest number of sellouts during the year, and so far this year we’re already halfway to those numbers.”

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ARTS & CULTURE

Gayety Theatre This Victorian treasure opened in 1911 as a vaudeville theatre and silent movie house, then became the first theatre north of Toronto to be retrofitted for talking pictures. Those who grew up in Collingwood have fond memories of childhoods spent munching popcorn and watching the latest flick at the Saturday matinĂŠes.

The beloved theatre closed its doors briefly in 2003 before local businessman Sid Dickinson stepped in to purchase the building. Since then, Dickinson has

TOP: Magician Sawyer Bullock performs some close-up magic for Jonas DiFruscia at a recent Family Day event at the Gayety. ABOVE & RIGHT: Jonas and Payton DiFruscia enjoy arts and crafts at the Gayety.

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transformed the Gayety into a hotspot for all forms of entertainment, from live music and theatre to comedy and films.

Upcoming musical performers include Juno Award-winner Fred Eaglesmith and Canadian classic rock band The Stampeders, plus tribute bands playing hits from Rush, the Bee Gees, Fleetwood Mac, Tom Petty, The Doors, Neil Young, and Simon & Garfunkel. Also in the lineup for 2020: a comedy tour, a children’s show, the TEDx Collingwood event, and a speaker series

JOIN US THIS SUMMER FOR A MAGICAL WEEK-LONG CLASSICAL MUSIC FESTIVAL, JULY 10-16, 2020

Come One, Come All Daniel Wnukowski, Artist Director, announces the lineup of internationally acclaimed musical stars for the 2020 Collingwood Summer Music Festival.

Friday, July 10 - 7pm

A CANADIAN PREMIERE

POPERA

Inaugural Gala with the National Academy Orchestra of Canada. $55 + HST Saturday, July 11 - 7pm

DANIEL AND THE WILD GIRLS Exciting & Dramatic Chamber Music. $35 + HST

A CANADIAN PREMIERE

Sunday Matinee, July 12 - 3pm

A WOMAN’S LOVE

Join Vera & Natalia Pavlova Direct From Russia! $35 + HST FREE Event: Sunday, July 12 - Dusk Live piano with Daniel Wnukowski.

FREE Event: Monday, July 13 - 1pm

RISING STARS

Laureates of the Canadian Chopin Piano Competition.

Tuesday, July 14 - 7pm

FLAMENCO REIMAGINED

With Magnificent Flamenco Dancer, Esmeralda Enrique. $35 + HST FREE Events: Wednesday, July 15

YOUTH DAY

Morning 11am: Arts & Crafts for Pre-School Children.* Afternoon 1pm: A Songwriting Spectacle: Family-fun for all ages! *sign-up required

FREE Event: Thursday, July 16 - 1pm

JOY RIDE

Thrilling Virtuosity with Charles & Colin from Quartetto Gelato.

All ages welcome!

A CANADIAN PREMIERE Thursday, July 16 - 7pm

MAUREEN FORRESTER’S 90TH ANNIVERSARY Stars of Canadian Opera with the Elmer Iseler Singers. $50 + HST

Monday, July 13 - 7pm

CHOCHO

The ‘Butterfly’ with Taiko, Shamisen and Japanese Drummers. $35 + HST

2020 TICKET PRICES SILVER Pass (First 3 Ticketed Events Only): $105 + HST

MUSIC FESTIVAL

GOLD Pass (All Ticketed Events): $210 + HST

Tickets can be purchased at:

Theatre Collingwood Box Office 115 Hurontario St., Suite 104, by phone (705) 445-2200, (866) 382-2200 or online at

COLLINGWOODFESTIVAL.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF GAYETY THEATRE

ARTS & CULTURE

LEFT: A Tom Petty Tribute band performed at the Gayety in 2019, scheduled to return in 2020. BELOW: ABBA Revisited also graced the Gayety stage in 2019, returning in 2020.

It’s Showtime!

Visit these websites to find out what’s on at venues throughout Southern Georgian Bay and beyond Avening Community Hall aveninghall.com Clearview Small Halls Festival smallhallsfestival.ca The Duntroon Hall theduntroonhall.ca The Historic Gayety Theatre, Collingwood gayetytheatre.com Gravenhurst Opera House gravenhurstoperahouse.com Marsh Street Centre, Clarksburg marshstreetcentre.com Meaford Hall Arts & Cultural Centre meafordhall.ca Midland Cultural Centre midlandculturalcentre.com The Roxy Theatre, Owen Sound roxytheatre.ca Simcoe Street Theatre, Collingwood creativesimcoestreet.ca Station on the Green, Creemore creemorestation.com Theatre Collingwood theatrecollingwood.ca

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on the myriad ways to enjoy the outdoors.

The diverse roster is designed to appeal to people of all ages. As was the most recent renovation, which saw the back block of seats being replaced by ‘cabaret seating,’ with tables and chairs open to the stage.

And the Gayety now has a liquor license, allowing beer and wine to be served during concerts and events.

“Probably 40 per cent of the people moving here now, maybe more, are between 28 and 55, and those people want to be entertained, they have kids, they look forward to getting out,” says Dickinson.

“The people moving here are outdoors people, so they really enjoy the movies about

nature, skiing, hiking. The Banff Mountain Film Festival came in for one night last fall, and they’ve requested to come back this year and run their festival over three days.”

To mark the 100th anniversary of the first talking movie shown at the Gayety in 1920, Dickinson is also putting together a package of 36 classic movies at “oldfashioned pricing” to be shown twice a month starting April 28, plus special events and giveaways. “We just want to make it a fun event and give some recognition to our history. Hopefully a lot of people who came to the Gayety as a young kid will come back and be entertained. We want to celebrate those memories.”

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Simcoe Street Theatre When Richard and Anke Lex purchased the former Enterprise-Bulletin newspaper building as an anchor for Collingwood’s Simcoe Street arts hub, they envisioned a 100-seat black-box theatre as part of the mix. Their attitude was, ‘build it and they will come.’ And they were right: by 2018, bookings for the simple performance space were in such high demand, the Town of Collingwood took over managing it.

Today the Simcoe Street Theatre boasts a diverse and ever-changing lineup that ranges from comedy and kids’ shows to blues, jazz and opera.

Recent performers have included multiple Juno winner Alfie Zappacosta, Canadian singer-songwriter Royal Wood, a kids’ puppet show, and tribute artists channeling superstars like Neil Diamond, Dolly Parton and The Beatles.

The Georgian Triangle Lifelong Learning Institute now streams its educational lectures to the Simcoe Street Theatre, with the current series on foreign policy showing Friday mornings until May 8. In April, Tamara Williamson will bring her autobiographical musical performance “The Breakup Diet” to the stage, and this fall Theatre Collingwood will present the play, “Mary of Shanty Bay.” “It’s a very intimate space,” says Tyler Cleary, community services rep for the town. “As an audience member, the darkness of the black box theatre makes it feel like what’s happening on stage is happening just for you, and as a performer, you’re all that exists for that audience. It’s very easy to get lost in it, to get emotional and just revel in the experience.”

In addition to concerts, live theatre and film showings, a big part of the theatre’s current direction is towards developing new artists. “Our mandate is to foster the growth of arts and culture for the town and remove barriers,”

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says Cleary. “We have a subsidy rate for emerging local artists, to encourage those artists to develop their craft. When you look at venues as a whole, quite often it’s about who first performed on that stage, and we hope to inspire someone from our community to become a future export into the larger cultural scene.”

With that in mind, the theatre now hosts regular ‘music labs’ where local artists can learn, collaborate, perform and get feedback. Topics include songwriting, stage craft, and how to get your music online. There’s an accomplished musician as host, and artists are encouraged – but not forced – to perform. “Typically, music labs are not so much open mic as show and tell,” explains Cleary. “It’s a peer-to-peer way that local artists can develop their craft, free of judgment and free of cost. At the end of the night, whoever wants to can take the stage and jam with the host.”

With the building also housing a lobby art gallery, Art Crush artist studio and gallery, the Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts and the Fleet-Wood Dance Centre, the theatre and its patrons benefit from such an artistic environment.

“There’s so much going on in the building from an arts and culture standpoint that it buzzes with creative energy,” says Cleary.

PHOTO BY DAVE WEST

PHOTO BY DAVE WEST

ARTS & CULTURE

TOP: Recent performers at the Simcoe Street Theatre included (l-r) Aisha Chiandet, Simon Helm, Shane Cloutier and Miranda Journey.

ABOVE & RIGHT: A conference for International Women’s Day at the Simcoe Street Theatre.

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Art’s Sake For

Local group envisions a world-class arts and entertainment centre in Collingwood

by JUDY ROSS photography by JESSICA CRANDLEMIRE

I

f we could peer into the future, how will Collingwood look in 20 years? If predictions bear out, the population will be about 40,000; many more residential developments will be in place; there will be more hotels, restaurants and shops; the grain terminals may or may not be our waterfront landmark. It will be a different town. There will still be sporting activities like

hockey. But what about the arts? Could the town become known near and far as the epicentre of arts, culture and entertainment in Southern Georgian Bay? That’s the hope of a group of local citizens who want to build a sparkling new arts centre in Collingwood, a multi-use cultural facility that will support local talent and attract world-class artists.

Donald Brommet (left) and Thomas Vincent discuss the need for a dedicated arts and culture facility in Collingwood.

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ARTS & CULTURE

The vision calls for a large theatre with a professional-sized stage and state-of-the-art sound and lighting equipment. Ideally, the showcase theatre would be designed to be flexible, able to morph from a 250-seat space to a large 600-seat auditorium. Other aspects of the facility could include rehearsal and educational spaces; gallery space for art shows, speakers’ series and receptions; retail space; food and beverage outlets; and outdoor gathering and performance spaces.

The idea arose a couple of years ago when local resident John Wiggins proposed tearing down the Collingwood Terminals building and erecting a performing arts centre on that site. Wiggins’ concept got the ball rolling, but the consensus now is that another site must be found.

CACE, which stands for Collingwood Arts, Culture & Entertainment, is the name of the grassroots community action group dedicated to seeing this dream come true.

“The key for us right now is to get major support in the community,” says Donald Brommet, one of 10 board members who have been working since May 2019 to make the arts centre a reality.

“We also need to get the various arts groups behind this. So far, we have identified over 20 groups, all of whom will benefit from an arts centre like this.”

Collingwood is sadly lacking in auditorium space. Many local organizations such as children’s theatre and dance groups, choirs

world-class music performances – for both visitors and residents alike.”

Himself a concert pianist who plays the finest venues around the globe, Wnukowski says he’d love to see a modern purpose-built facility in Collingwood.

“A performing arts centre in Collingwood would quickly become a nurturing, creative hub that showcases talent of all sorts, from drama to the fine arts. It will stimulate the local economy and provide Collingwood with a greater sense of communal integration and purpose. In other words, a first-time visitor or long-term resident can navigate through the streets of downtown Collingwood and proudly say ‘I love this town!’ ” Another strong supporter of the plan is Erica Angus, executive director of Theatre Collingwood, which is currently mounting its productions at several venues across the region after its 15-year relationship with the Gayety Theatre came to an end. Angus says a large, dedicated and fully accessible arts centre with state-of-theart staging, lighting, sound and amenities is exactly what Theatre Collingwood needs.

“Ideally I would like to see it be a space that could be used by different artists and different groups, for smaller as well as larger events,” she says. “It blows my mind how many artists in various forms of art are in this area, and wouldn’t it be great if there could be

The key for us right now is to get major support in the community. We also need to get the various arts groups behind this. So far, we have identified over 20 groups, all of whom will benefit from an arts centre like this. and musical troupes have no facilities in which to hold rehearsals and recitals, requiring them to travel to other towns to hold their performances.

Collingwood’s largest venue is the New Life Church on Tracey Lane and Hurontario Street, which can seat about 400 people. Used by various performing arts groups and the Collingwood Summer Music Festival, it is also home to the Georgian Triangle Lifelong Learning Institute (GTLLI). On Friday mornings both the church and the parking lot are packed for these university-level lectures, one example of our need for larger facilities.

Daniel Wnukowski, organizer of the Summer Music Festival, which had its inaugural season last year and will be back again this year, said while the New Life Church is a good venue, it has its limitations.

“During our earth-shattering opening concert in 2019, which featured 65 musicians on stage, we realized the limitations of providing our patrons with the ‘full’ concert experience. Although everyone who witnessed the event remarked that they experienced a ‘Roy Thomson Hall’ quality of performance that night, we could barely fit all the performers on stage – in fact, the timpanist was bumped off-stage with his kettledrums and played from the front row of the audience,” said Wnukowski. “We also had to order special lighting in order to light up the backstage performers and to allow those musicians to see their music. There are many other smaller issues that pop up from time to time involving acoustics, numbered seating and the ability to serve alcohol during gala events or roll the piano off-stage.

“A professional concert hall solves all of these issues and would effectively put Collingwood right on the map as a top destination for

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some sort of facility that would facilitate those artists and also be a great economic driver for the community.

“We bring in some coach tour groups, but if we had something that was really a draw, we could attract so many more groups to come in, and when they come they want to go for lunch, they want to go shopping and they often want to stay over. There’s a lot of economic benefit. It’s a win-win.”

Dean Collver, Collingwood’s director of parks, recreation and culture (PRC), says CACE first approached the town in late 2019.

“We were pleased to know that a group of like-minded community members was forming,” he says. “While PRC and the town have always been heavily invested in culture and the arts, and have been working with creators and arts organizations for years, it is always helpful when a group based on consensus comes forward to represent a collaborative voice of interest.”

The town recently approved the budget for a feasibility study and expects to be putting out a request for proposals on the study this spring. “We look forward to CACE’s participation, alongside the broader community, in the upcoming feasibility study,” says Collver.

Thomas Vincent, another of the moving forces behind CACE, says the concept of a dedicated arts centre will need strong community support to move forward. “I think the town council is aware that Collingwood is becoming more than a hockey town, and we need to show all levels of government that there’s strong support in the community,” says Vincent, adding, “This arts centre is for the future, for our kids and grandkids.” ❧ To learn more about the CACE project, visit collingwoodarts.com

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W

hen Michelle and Rick Seip purchased this former parsonage on the 12th Concession in Sunnidale, they intended it to be a stopover on their way to building a custom home on a large country property they own nearby.

“We weren’t planning to stay very long,” says Michelle. “The plan was to do a minimal amount of work for resale and basically use it as a ‘halfway house’ while we built the new house.”

Famous last words. Four years later, the Seips have yet to start building their dream home (although that’s still the plan), and in the

meantime they’ve completely revamped the parsonage, renovating extensively and building an 1,100-square-foot addition that houses a new master bedroom and a large double-car garage.

Fortunately, Rick is handy and has some retired and semi-retired builder friends, so they did all of the work, using architectural drawings commissioned from Jasper Design in Collingwood.

“It took us two years to renovate, then we added the addition,” he says, adding, “the house when we bought it was 25 feet wide; it’s now 75 feet wide.”

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Designed by Barb Thorne of Southgate Kitchens in Thornbury, the kitchen in the original part of the house (above) features shaker-style cabinets, marble subway tile on the backsplash, and a formica countertop with a granite look. Mannington laminate flooring by Kirby’s Complete Flooring Centre, Wasaga Beach. Table custom made by Re:nous by JK, Penetanguishene. An original brick exterior wall is now part of the front hall (left), along with a window well that now frames a painting.

Below, a barn door by Barrie Trim & Mouldings leads to the laundry room and powder room off the kitchen.

Credenza staging by Dianne Reasbeck.

The transformation is nothing short of extraordinary. On the outside, the 110-year-old house has gone from tired and nondescript to welcoming and current, with tons of curb appeal. On the inside, Rick and his crew moved walls, opened doorways (and in one case turned a former window into a feature alcove on a wall), widened the staircase and redesigned the kitchen. What was formerly the living room is now a den, and the new master bed and bath in the addition are a far cry from what a simple country parson and his wife could have even imagined in the early 1900s.

Yet the character of the original house has been lovingly preserved. The brick walls that were once on the exterior are still

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visible as interior walls, and the deep doorways are a testament to the well-insulated building techniques of more than a century ago. Upstairs, the sloped ceilings in the guest bedrooms and office add to the heritage feel.

Michelle – an avid equestrian who owns horses, competes in a Western discipline called reining, and travels to Alberta a few times a year to help friends who are “real ranchers” round up cattle – has decorated the house in a modern horse-ranch style, with leather and wood furnishings accented by Western décor elements.

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design and equestrian décor works together seamlessly, and the Seips have learned a lot about what they want to do when they get around to building their new home.

“It’s taught us that you can live in less space, and everything doesn’t have to be custom made to work well. It’s really given us a lot of lessons and it’s been a great experience,” says Michelle. “We love it here, and it’s a true reflection of who we are. The horse ranch kind of feel that we want to do across the road is really just this little farmhouse on a bigger scale and on one level.”

Both local realtors, the couple’s previous home was a 4,800-square-foot custom build on the river in Wasaga Beach. In 2015 they purchased 45 acres on the 12th Concession with a large barn and a driveshed but no house. “We fell in love with the location,” says Rick. The Seips planned to eventually build a home on the property and then sell their house in Wasaga Beach, but the minute word got out, they received an offer.

“The timeline really sped up because we had someone right away who offered to buy the Wasaga Beach house,” says Michelle. “It was a very unique house, and when you have a buyer for something unique, it doesn’t make sense to wait.”

Rick got to work winterizing the barn so they could store a large houseful of furniture in it, and they went looking for a modest “jump house” to live in while the new one was being built. When they learned that the house diagonally across the road from their new property was on the market, they couldn’t believe their luck.

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The new master bedroom in the addition (top) is open and airy. Bedding by Dovetail Interiors, Nottawa. Framed photographs by Shelagh Fox, Thornbury.

The sloped ceiling is visible in the upstairs bathroom (above), next to a long soaker tub from Home Hardware, Wasaga Beach.

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Ebenezer Church Ebenezer United Missionary Church began as the Union Church in 1881 and went through a few more name changes – Mennonite Brethren in Christ, Jack’s Lake United Missionary, Sunnidale Missionary Church – before finally being christened Ebenezer, from the Hebrew meaning “stone of help.”

Its first minister, Reverend Henry Goudie, travelled from Stayner across what was then Sunnidale Township to preach at Ebenezer and other rural churches. When Goudie left in 1906, the congregation, then numbering between 75 and 80, decided to build a parsonage and find a permanent minister to live in the community and serve its needs full-time. A modest brick manse was built to the west of the church, on the same side of the 12th Concession (see main story). Providentially, the first full-time minister to live in the residence was Rev. Ebenezer Anthony.

Like the parsonage, the church was furnished simply in the Mennonite tradition. Services were serious affairs: foot washing was a regular practice, with the minister offering prayers as everyone knelt on the wooden floor; public confessions were common; choirs and musical instruments were prohibited in services until 1916.

The church also hosted “revivals” in addition to regular Sunday services. These sometimes took the form of camp meetings, often held over a number of days, and included “watchnight” services by candlelight and hospitality meetings at parishioners’ homes.

When the original church burned down in 1948, the congregation banded together to rebuild, mustering community spirit to erect the current cement-block structure.

The new church wasn’t able to keep its doors open for long, however; migration from farms to urban centres over the next several years whittled down Ebenezer’s congregation and funds until weekly services were discontinued in 1955.

Today a volunteer board continues to maintain the adjacent cemetery, and one service is held in the church on the first Sunday each June, with offerings going towards the perpetual care of the cemetery.

Source: Sunnidale Looks at Yesterday: A History of Sunnidale Township, published by Sunnidale Township Council, 1985.

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When the Seips purchased the home, the exterior looked very different (top). The original living room (middle) is now a den off the new master bedroom. The original kitchen (above) was completely redesigned.

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One of the original brick walls creates the perfect backdrop for a cosy reading nook (above) outside the den (far right).

Staging by Dianne Reasbeck. Framed photo by John Knox, Collingwood.

“When we bought it, we didn’t even know it had been the church manse,” says Rick. “That was just the icing on the cake.”

The idea of doing minimal work went out the window almost as soon as they stepped through the doors on closing day. Standing in the front foyer, where the original red brick has been

uncovered to form a feature wall, Michelle laughs, “The day we took possession, we got the key at three in the afternoon and by six o’clock Rick had the sledgehammer and had already broken away all the old drywall because we were dying to see what was behind it.”

Now that the renovation and addition are complete, the Seips are ready to start building their new house, but there’s no hurry; they’re cosy as can be in their 2,400-square-foot parsonage, enjoying life in the tight-knit rural community known for centuries as Jack’s Lake (see sidebar).

“Because we’ve ended up loving this location as much as we do, we know this is where we want to be, because of the neighbourhood and the community feeling of Jack’s Lake,” says Michelle.

“When you’re getting ready to do a new build and you’ve lived in something with authentic character, it really makes you think. So now we’re trying to figure out how we can put that authentic character into something that’s brand new. We want to bring our lifestyle and our character into those four walls.”

And no matter how well they plan, they know there’s a good chance the new project will take on a life of its own, just as this one did. ❧

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The back exterior wall of the original house is now an interior wall in the family room (top). Table by Desiron, Thornbury.

Horse sculpture from East End Vendors Market, Stayner.

Candle holders from Dovetail Interiors, Nottawa. The laundry room and powder room off the kitchen (middle) was completely reconfigured. Cabinetry from Home Depot, washer and dryer from TA Appliances, Barrie. An original window from the house now serves as a mirror above a custom-made credenza by Bateman Fine Cabinetry, Oro (above).

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This spring, Clearview Township will erect a sign similar to this in a special ceremony for the community.

Jack’s Lake The Seip home is the former church manse of a tiny community once known as Jack’s Lake, in what was previously Sunnidale Township (Clearview Township today). The church was the heart of life in the small country parish, which in the days of horses and buggies was far removed from the nearest town, Stayner.

The ‘lake’ itself is really just a widening in the Nottawasaga River, once part of an ancient lagoon, named after an aboriginal settler known as John Jacques (the original name, Jacques Lake, became anglicized over the years). The surrounding wetland has been designated as provincially significant by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

For centuries, the inhabitants of the settlement that grew up around the fertile wetland were farmers. Often, one farm produced in abundance what another lacked, so the Jack’s Lake farmers devised a trading system to give everyone what they needed.

That sense of community is still alive and well today even though there aren’t many farmers left; the urbanites, families and professionals who have replaced them are determined to maintain the neighbourliness of the area’s original pioneers. On the first Sunday in June, they congregate for a church service in the historic Ebenezer United Missionary Church. In the fall, they take shifts in one neighbour’s barn to boil vats of sap from his sugarbush; the resulting maple syrup is sold, with proceeds going to the hospital. And each Christmas, another neighbour takes everyone on a wagon ride from house to house for a ‘progressive dinner.’ In between, there are gettogethers, backyard barbecues and deliveries of fresh-laid eggs from one family’s chickens.

“We lived in an absolutely stunning house on the river in Wasaga Beach for pretty much 30 years and our neighbours were physically a lot closer than they are now, but we’ve never felt a sense of belonging the way we do here,” says Michelle Seip. “We’re not on top of each other, but there’s a connectedness. It’s a really wonderful feeling.”

The Seips and their neighbours are so invested in preserving the heritage of their close-knit community, they’ve petitioned Clearview Township to officially designate the area as the Hamlet of Jack’s Lake and erect a sign near the ‘downtown’ where the church, parsonage, schoolhouse and original post office still stand today.

The sign will be installed this spring at a special ceremony for the community, no doubt to be followed by some neighbourly revelry.

Source: Sunnidale Looks at Yesterday: A History of Sunnidale Township, published by Sunnidale Township Council, 1985.

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Like the interiors, the exterior space has also been transformed. The new front entrance (top) is warm and welcoming, with a leaded glass door and window custom ordered from Home Depot. Lighting from Wasaga Beach Decorating.

The homeowner planted the front garden to be low-maintenance (middle right). In the back yard, a bird sculpture by Northern Iron creates interest (lower right). Above, homeowners Michelle and Rick Seip enjoy a glass of wine on their new back patio, which Rick built. Wicker furniture by TSC Stores, Collingwood.

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I think that I shall never see A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is prest Against the earth’s sweet f lowing breast; A tree that looks at God all day, And lifts her leafy arms to pray; A tree that may in Summer wear A nest of robins in her hair; Upon whose bosom snow has lain; Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me, But only God can make a tree.

TREES

by Joyce Kilmer, 1913

Everything you need to know about choosing, planting and caring for trees on your property

by JUDY ROSS

I

became interested in trees when we moved to one of Collingwood’s ‘tree streets’ last year. These streets, which run north to south in the downtown core, were named eons ago by the town founders – Pine, Maple, Beech, Birch, etc. – and houses on these well-established tree

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streets are now considered prime real estate.

The irony is that some of them have no trees at all. Ours was a case in point. Although our back yard was shaded and leafy with a selection of mature maple and walnut trees, the front yard of our newly built home was barren. We needed some trees there.

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

And so the research began. We wanted to plant a large-ish tree to suit the size of the front lawn (and our lack of patience for long-term growth). That’s when I discovered that big trees mean big money.

Buying a large, mature tree can cost thousands of dollars. The cost comes from the labour and the equipment required; transporting a large tree to a property requires a very large truck with a ‘tree spade’ mounted on its back. Then there’s the access issue, especially with back yards.

This monster equipment has to be able to squeeze onto your property, possibly chewing up any existing lawn or garden beds.

For our front lawn tree, we ended up taking the advice of Teresa Matamoros of Garden Holistics in Thornbury, whom we had contracted to do some landscaping. She considered the site, the need for shade or privacy, and the condition of the soil. After examining different options, her firm transported and planted a Robinia pseudoacacia (black locust) ‘Purple Robe.’

“This species of tree is drought tolerant, grows reasonably quickly and does well in poor soils,” Matamoros told us. “It will grow to be about 12 metres tall with a seven- to eight-metre spread and it has fragrant pink flowers that bloom in the spring.”

Our new tree was 80 mm caliper in size. Deciduous trees (those that lose their leaves in the fall) are measured by trunk diameter rather than height. A tree caliper is a special device that measures the diameter of a tree’s trunk one foot from the ground. This caliper measure is used because it’s more reliable than the heights of these trees which can vary dramatically.

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Top: Trees can create a landscape full of interest in all seasons.

Above: A Canadian sugar maple in the fall. Below left: Closeup of Robinia Pseudoacacia (black locust) ‘Purple Robe’ blossom.

The most common size of potted tree found at nurseries and landscape companies is 40 to 45 mm caliper. But a 40 to 45 mm tree, no matter what its height, is still bigger than most homeowners can manage on their own; it comes packaged in a burlap and wire basket and can weigh up to 450 pounds.

A small trailer or a pick-up truck will be required to transport it and it will be difficult to handle. Ideally you will make arrangements with a professional to bring the tree to your property and plant it. For very large trees you need a tree transporting service like Clarke’s Tree Spade Services in Meaford. They have four different sizes of tree spades and can move trees up to 12-inch caliper.

Even a 40 to 45 mm tree will take a full year to get established and acclimate to its environment. With so many weather variables, it’s hard to have exact guidelines for maintenance. As general rule, a newly planted tree needs watering every day for the first week, then every second day for the second week and twice a week for the remainder of the season. Spring (May or June) is a good time to plant but only if you’re around in the summer to do the maintenance. An in-ground sprinkler system can be set up to water the appropriate amount, but often the best way to find out if your new tree needs water is to simply stick your fingers into the ground.

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Above: Ivory Silk Lilac trees (also called Japanese Tree Lilac) grow to about 30 feet in height. Right: A tree spade is used to plant or transplant larger trees.

There’s a different measuring system for evergreens, according to Michael LaPorte, manager of Clearview Nursery in Stayner. “These trees are also packaged in burlap and wire baskets but are measured by height taken from the ground level to the middle of last year’s growth.

The range of evergreens we offer is from four feet to 10 feet and these will weigh from 250 to 1,500 lbs.�

While it’s true that bringing in large evergreens will give your property the instant visual appeal of a more mature landscape, these large trees take a long time to get established. You may not see growth for three to five years because the tree will spend the first year re-establishing root growth before energy can be spent on the ‘top’ canopy growth. Larger trees (both deciduous and evergreen) are also more prone to ‘transplant shock,’ which can make them susceptible to drought, diseases and insects. “We find that evergreens don’t do as well if planted in the fall,� says LaPorte. “They don’t like the freeze and thaw cycles that are typical of winter now. However, we have had great success with fall planting of deciduous trees. After one thorough initial watering, the tree can often be on its own until mid-June.�

Because mature trees can increase the value of your property by up to 15 per cent, they are a worthwhile investment. If you don’t mind the wait for trees to mature, then choose a selection of smaller ornamental trees and shrubs from a reliable nursery that you can plant on your own. “Most customers can purchase, transport and install any of our potted plants,� says LaPorte. “This includes standards (shrubs grafted on a stem), fruit trees and some ornamental trees such as Magnolia and Japanese Maple.�

The type of tree you choose must be compatible with your soil type

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Our national symbol and the centre of our Canadian flag is a stylish drawing of the leaf of a sugar maple. But these native maple trees are endangered and disappearing from the rural landscape in Ontario.

This rapid decline of sugar maples is happening all over northeastern America and is also creating a crisis for maple syrup producers. It’s a concern for all of us who care about our beautiful maples, the trees that give our fall foliage its distinctive yellow, orange and red radiance.

A charitable foundation called Maple Leaves Forever (MLF) is determined to make the public aware of the importance and benefits of planting native Canadian maples. The organization currently offers a thank-you rebate for eligible purchases of native Canadian maple trees to be planted along rural roadsides, laneways, property boundaries and hedgerows.

MLF also provides information and guidance regarding the planting and ongoing care of these trees, and works with seed collectors and tree nurseries to ensure that a supply of certified, native, seed zone specific sugar, red and silver maple seedlings is available to be grown into saplings and trees.

Clearview Nursery in Stayner is a member of the organization.

“When you buy the maple trees from us, you submit the receipt to MLF and they will partially reimburse you,” explains general manager Michael LaPorte. Triple J. Tree Farm in Creemore is another local ‘nursery partner.’

Maple Leaves Forever also owns a professionally managed, sustainably renewable woodlot certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

For more information, visit mapleleavesforever.ca

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ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

103

HOME & GARDEN

Above: Ash trees are susceptible to an invasive species called the Emerald Ash Borer, which is killing many of the beautiful ash trees on Collingwood’s ‘tree streets.’ Left: Japanese Maple trees are known for their attractive form, leaf shape and variety of colours.

and hardiness zone, must be positioned to get the required amount of sun, and must have good drainage. For placement near your house or driveway, it’s important to know what the mature size will be. A good rule of thumb is to plant a tree away from the house at a distance equal to half of the maximum tree height. For instance, if a tree will grow to be 40 feet tall at maturity, it should be planted at least 20 feet from the house.

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Matamoros says diversity is most important when choosing trees for a property. “At this time of climate change, I look to diversity to avoid monoculture,” she explains. “There is a strong movement toward native trees and plants as they are the best choice for our pollinators (a native species is one that existed in Ontario prior to European settlement).

However, with many foreign pests and diseases being introduced to our native trees (like the Asian Long Horned Beetle and the Emerald Ash Borer), I am looking to something similar but different for our gardens and parks. There are so many different kinds of trees out there that we can broaden our palette of what we plant.”

The lovely old trees on Collingwood’s tree streets are native ones and some are suffering from these foreign pests. Planted long ago – some more than a century old – many of these trees are on boulevards between the street and the sidewalk, which are town property and therefore publicly owned. If there’s an issue requiring the tree to be removed, the town will take care of it.

Right now there’s a problem with Ash trees. An invasive species known as the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is killing these beautiful trees.

When the town’s public works department sprays an Ash tree with a yellow X, it means that it’s likely to be killed by EAB and will need to be removed. A green dot means it might be saved and will be injected

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Above: Trees grow in a nursery, ready for planting. Left: A cedar hedge provides privacy and sound buffering.

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with TreeAzin, a method of protection. A red X means the tree has no hope and will be removed soon, usually because it’s in a hazardous position where it might fall over onto a sidewalk or trail. The town does replace the trees that are removed, currently planting about 125 new trees every year.

We have a wide grass boulevard in front of our house between the road and the sidewalk and we found out that, because the town owns that land, we could get a tree or trees planted for no charge. We contacted the public works department to get an inventory of the trees available.

They need to consider the mature size and whether the utility lines are on that side of the street. From our available options we chose two Ivory Silk Lilac trees (also called Japanese Tree Lilac) which grow to about 30 feet (we do have those overhead lines) and will produce large white fragrant flowers each spring.

The importance of trees has been making news far beyond our Southern Georgian Bay borders. In January at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, a ground-breaking initiative was unveiled.

Leading governments and businesses vowed to plant, grow and restore one trillion trees worldwide.

Here in Collingwood the town is waking up to the value of a healthy tree canopy. Consultants have been working with council to develop an Urban Forest Management Plan and have provided more than 40 recommendations to help the town increase, diversify, protect and maintain its urban forest. One of the most crucial recommendations is to value our existing trees and plant new ones on public and private land.

The future for our trees is looking better than ever.

Whether you’re planting trees as part of your landscaping or maintaining a woodlot on a larger property, there’s no question that trees make the world a more beautiful place. According to TreeCanada, a registered charity dedicated to planting and nurturing trees, “They provide us with many lasting benefits: shade, privacy, increased property value, shelter and food, and they contribute to our mental well-being. Planting trees is one small way each of us can help improve the environment.”

No wonder poems are written in their honour. ❧

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HOME & GARDEN

Purchasing & Recycling of Precious Metals Distribution of Investment Gold & Silver Products 705-734-2222 667 Welham Rd, Unit 1, Barrie

Reasons

barriegoldbuyer.com bullioncanada.com

TO PLANT A

TREE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Landscaping with trees increases your property value and adds curb appeal. A mature tree can have an appraised value of up to $10,000.

Trees make neighbourhoods more sociable, add privacy, and remove pollutants and carbon dioxide from the air. Evergreen trees help buffer sound from outside noise.

Trees with broad canopies provide shade and will save energy, allowing you to cut down on your air conditioning bills. The roots of trees absorb moisture and help reduce storm water runoff.

Planting evergreens is a good way to ensure privacy in all seasons, and realtors say privacy is a key issue with prospective home buyers. Trees can also be planted to hide an undesirable view.

Trees soften harsh landscapes and add dimension to a property. Evergreens add winter interest and protective shelter for birds. Planted close together, they can form a hedge for your property line.

If trees are planted on the north or northwest side of your property, they will create an energy-saving wind break; a wall against cold winter winds. This can help lower heating costs.

Flowering trees provide berries for birds, blossoms for bees and butterflies, and wonderful fragrance for everyone.

Trees provide food. Some trees, like dwarf fruit trees, will offer up fruit three to five years after planting.

Memorial trees can be planted in some public places to honour an event or a loved one. You can choose a location (the Arboretum, Sunset Park etc.) and the planting is taken care of. A fee of $500 includes the tree, planting and a personalized plaque. You also receive a tax receipt and the tree is guaranteed for life.

Managed woodlots on country properties are beneficial in countless ways. An acre of trees annually absorbs the amount of carbon dioxide equal to driving your car 26,000 miles.

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HOME & GARDEN

TREE

Planting TIPS

Supporting

How to get the most from your tree by giving it the best start

. Natural & Organic Farms . Artisanal & Fair Trade Producers

176 Mill St., Creemore 705-466-3514 info@100milestore.ca 100milestore.ca photo credit Alan Shisko

PLAN AHEAD Think about what the tree will look like at maturity. How tall will it grow? What shape will it have? Will it fit in the space you have once it is full-grown? Would a coniferous (evergreen) or deciduous tree work better in your landscape.

A tree’s shape, height, size at maturity and function in your landscape will determine the best tree to plant in a particular location.

Before doing any digging, make sure to request underground utility locates to check for buried cables and wires on your property. Call your local municipality to learn who to contact and do not plant tall-growing trees close to overhead utility lines.

WHEN TO PLANT Deciduous trees can be planted in the spring, as soon as the frost is out of the ground, or in the fall, from leaf-fall until freeze-up.

Conifers can be planted early in the spring until four weeks after deciduous trees have opened their leaves, or in the fall, from about the first week of August to the end of October.

Springlicious

$29.99 Steak & Seafood April 5th - May 15th Sunday to Friday We are proud to be accepting donations for Out Of The Cold Collingwood. Visit outofthecoldcollingwood.com for items in need. Please help us support.

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PLANTING STEPS • For trees in containers, gently slide the root ball out of the pot and into the hole. For burlapped trees, place the root ball in the hole and gently cut away the wire basket and burlap.

• Roughen the sides and bottom of the hole to allow root penetration.

• Protect your tree well during transport by padding the trunk and branches gently with burlap and tying loose ends with soft rope or twine.

• Plant as soon as possible after delivery. If planting is not possible right away, store the tree in a cool, shaded area and water as needed to keep the roots and soil moist.

• Dig a hole two to three times wider than the container or root ball.

The hole should only be as deep as the root ball. When placed in the hole, the root collar (i.e. where the roots join the main stem or trunk) should be equal to or slightly above the depth of the hole.

• Plant the tree so that the top of the root ball is flush with the top of the hole and the tree is vertical. Fill the hole in and around the root ball with the soil removed from the hole or good quality soil. Do not return any grass or sod to the hole.

• Gently pack the soil around the root ball until the hole is two-thirds full to remove air pockets. Fill the remaining space with water to settle the soil and allow the hole to drain. Finish filling the hole with soil and make a ridge of soil around the root ball to direct water towards the roots.

Planting trees along with shrubs gives a garden different heights and colours for maximum esthetic appeal.

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TAKING CARE OF YOUR TREE

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• Apply two to four inches of mulch around the tree over the area of the root ball to reduce the growth of weeds and retain water in the soil. Be sure to keep mulch two to three inches away from the trunk of the tree.

• Water slowly and deeply immediately after planting and once a week or more as needed during dry conditions to keep the soil moist.

• Avoid applying fertilizer, except for bone meal or high phosphorus fertilizer, in the first year after planting. A higher nitrogen fertilizer can be applied later on for greening and top growth.

• Staking trees is not necessary unless they are exposed to high winds or if the soil is shallow. Remove stakes after one year.

• Prune at planting to improve branch spacing and promote a strong structure by removing dead, damaged, or rubbing branches. Trees should be pruned while dormant in late fall or early spring.

These are general guiding principles for tree planting and care. For more specific information, please consult your local garden centre, nursery, district agriculturalist, forester or forest technician, library, or tree farm on proper planting procedures for individual species.

Photo: Azzurra Seafood Pasta Source: TreeCanada ON THE BAY

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Local Arts Tour the

September 19 2020 • 5 - 9pm

Awards

Gifts Art

Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts 65 Simcoe St., Studio 4, Collingwood 705.445.3430.bmfa.ca

the art project

Collingwood’s Creative District

fine art gallery Ann Clifford Neil Clifford Liz Eakins Sue A. Miller Peter Adams Rick Garner

33 Hurontario St. Collingwood, ON | 647 994 1773 | @theartprojectgallery

Cecilia Spihlmann

Studio at 77 Simcoe St, Collingwood

www.spihlmannart.com ceciliaspihlmann@gmail.com 416.997.0357

Please contact before visiting the Studio

A R T I S T

S P O T L I G H T

Essence

Place

Kara McIntosh uses vibrant, unexpected colours to evoke abstracted expressions of traditional landscapes Top: As If I Have Wings, oil on Canvas, 36 x 48 inches.

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KARA McINTOSH Kara McIntosh is a contemporary local painter whose exploration of the landscape is grounded in a curiosity around the experience of place. Through a process of immersion, observation and response to the natural world, Kara’s work investigates themes of connection and community – physical, emotional, economic, social and cultural.

Rendered in both loose impasto and careful marks, Kara’s work captures a considered essence of place. Her strong, assured brushwork may present specific sites, but it encourages the viewer to engage and reflect on their own experiences of place. With vibrant and often unexpected colours peeking through her compositions and increasingly abstracted expressions, Kara’s work offers a refreshing and engaging take on traditional landscape subject matter.

Kara lives in the Pretty River Valley near Nottawa and works full-time from her studio in the historic Tremont Building, part of the Simcoe Street Creative District in Collingwood. Her work can be found in many private collections in Canada, the US, Europe and Australia. Visit her website at karamcintosh.com. ❧

Clockwise from top: Wheels and Dreams Turning, 48 x 48 inches; Sometimes Unevenly, We Grow, 48 x 48 inches; Happy Days With Pinky Tuscadero, 36 x 36.

All oil on panel.

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A R T I S T

S P O T L I G H T

Top to bottom: Haven’t Been There Yet, 36 x 36 inches; Mingling in Layers, 24 x 30 inches.

Both oil on panel.

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The latest new business openings and business transformations including new owners, moves and major renovations. More great reasons to shop local!

Don Kilby, owner and resident artist at ArtBank Collective.

ARTBANK COLLECTIVE Clarksburg, the little village lovingly known as Artsburg, has a new gallery in the former bank building on the corner of Marsh and Clark streets. “This historic and beautiful building offers an ideal setting for viewing art, well lit with a relaxing, uncluttered atmosphere,” said Don Kilby, a local painter who is co-owner and resident artist along with metal creator Jeff Gillmor.

In addition to works by Kilby and Gillmor, the collective also displays work by other artists and artisans.

“The goal with the ArtBank Collective was to offer a showcase for skilled artists

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and artisans with a unique and exceptional product,” said Kilby. “A limited selection of works by each artist is on display. Interested customers are encouraged to reach out to the creators directly following their introduction via the collective.”

Previous to the ArtBank, Kilby had a successful art gallery featuring his paintings just down the street in Clarksburg. Gillmor is known for his creative and high-quality metal work creations, featured in many homes in the area.

“The ArtBank was designed to offer a welcoming and stimulating place to visit and view the extraordinary items featured inside,” said Kilby. “Comfy chairs, friendly staff, big windows, and an uncluttered feel encourage visitors to relax, take their time and get acquainted with the art on display. It is our goal to make the ArtBank Collective a destination worthy of repeat visits, always offering something special to be seen and experienced.”

Beauregard. “Infrared heat penetrates the outer skin to trigger a sweat and warm our soft connective tissues, instead of overheating our lungs and our core temperature. The benefits are significant and include high caloric burn, detoxification, reduced pain and inflammation, increased mobility, circulation and cell renewal, muscle recovery and more.”

Classes include Pilates, Barre, TRX, Kickboxing, Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Chair Yoga, Functional Movement, Stretch, Glute and Abs, and more.

“IFY offers a revolution in hot-fitness [with] comfortable, breathable, invigorating studios, said Beauregard. “You can breathe easily without feeling overly stressed by the heat and get the real benefits of working out in a ‘hot’ environment.”

Hours: Tues. - Fri. 12-5, Sat. 11-5, Sun. 12-4 175 Marsh St., Clarksburg 519-372-7971 artbankcollective.ca

IFY – INFRARED FITNESS AND YOGA This new Collingwood fitness studio offers general fitness and yoga classes in an infrared heated environment.

“Traditional hot studios over-heat the air you breathe and make it a challenge to exercise,” explained owner Lynn

IFY staff, front l-r: Jennifer Gerrard, Lynn Beauregard (owner), Carol Burella, Marlo Stoutenburg, Kit Redding.

Back l-r: Jeff White, Anna Holancin.

All photos courtesy of business owners ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

SPECIAL INFORMATION SECTION

Hot rooms are popular among yoga enthusiasts, but IFY offers a wide selection of classes from Pilates to total body conditioning and other forms of fitness in addition to yoga, she added.

“Hot fitness should not be just for yoga and this is why we are offering a great variety of classes for all levels, fitness types and at different heat intensities,” said Beauregard.

“This is a whole new concept for those who want to get in the best shape, want to access the benefits of infrared heat and hot fitness, and want to get some variety in from the traditional gym or yoga studio.”

Hours: 7 days a week (see website for times) 2 Mountain Road, Collingwood 705-293-1991 ifyfitness.ca

evoke that passion in them.”

Customers are invited to stop by, say hello to Sophie the Bernadoodle, see the baby grand piano and browse the shop.

“It fills me with such joy to be able to bring something into the world that was not there the day before. It is exciting to see people’s reaction to the studio, the artwork, workshops, classes and creative gifts. It is a very special space. The sign on the door as you enter says, ‘Come In And Smile.’ ”

thrive,” he said. “We also offer a unique loyalty discount program that is sure to make our customers happy.”

Hours: Mon. – Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-3 460 Hume St., Unit 4, Collingwood 705-242-5383 todaysnaturalsolutions.net

Hours: Thurs. – Sun. 11-5 Classes can be booked outside of these hours.

16 Bruce St N. Unit #4, Thornbury (Just up from the Harbour) 705-994-2505 kellygalecreative.com

TODAY’S NATURAL SOLUTIONS COLLINGWOOD

Kelly Gale of Kelly Gale Creative.

KELLY GALE CREATIVE Artist Kelly Gale has opened a three-level boutique studio space in Thornbury to show her original artwork along with unique gifts and seasonal accents. She also offers workshops, music and voice coaching classes.

“You can book floral or art workshops for a group of friends as well as music and voice coaching classes,” said Gale. “The vocal coaching classes have been fun, working with people who want to find their voice to sing or gain confidence to speak in public.”

Gale has more than 20 years’ experience in the arts industry as a professional artist, singer/songwriter, radio/TV personality and floral designer.

“I believe I was created to create,” she said.

“I am hands-on engaging with people through my artwork, classes, workshops and coaching.

My wish is that I am able to inspire children and adults through my passion for the arts and

Collingwood has a new health store offering a large selection of professional and consumer product lines. The new shop carries vitamin and mineral supplements, products to help with sleep and stress, homeopathy, specialty foods, weight loss support, probiotics, sports nutrition (pre/intra/post workout support), hormone support, body care, beauty products, essential oils, diffusers, rock lamps and more.

“We are a family-run retail health store originating out of Uxbridge, Ontario, providing outstanding service to that community for the last 15 years,” said co-owner and holistic nutritionist Ken Seerattan. “We’re looking forward to providing great service to Collingwood and surrounding areas.”

Seerattan’s business model focuses on personalized service and solutions to fit customers’ individual needs. “We are a business that thrives when its customers

Ken Seerattan, owner of Today’s Natural Solutions.

Carolina D’Andrea, owner of Vaiya.

VAIYA Loungewear meets street style at Vaiya, a new lifestyle brand clothing shop in downtown Collingwood. “Our clothing is casual but stylish, featuring breathable and natural fabrics such as bamboo and organic cotton,” said owner Carolina D’Andrea. “Everything is designed with comfort in mind, as well as the ethics behind the product.”

Vaiya is the evolution of D’Andrea’s previous business, OneLove: Global Local Eco, which closed in January. The new store carries casual and contemporary clothing for women and men, plus accessories, bags and some apothecary. Footwear is coming soon.

“We focus on natural fibres and ethical brands that are high quality, comfortable and stylish. Many lines are made or designed in Canada. Our versatile clothing is excellent for work, travel and everyday life,” said D’Andrea.

“We are a body-positive space dedicated to offering our customers the best in stylish, comfortable and versatile clothing. We believe shopping should be relaxed and fun, and our team of enthusiastic stylists will have you looking and feeling great.”

For those who prefer to shop from home, a new website offers online shopping with free in-store pickup.

Hours: Mon. – Sat. 10-5:30, Sun. 12-4 21 Hurontario St., Collingwood 705-467-0006 shopvaiya.ca

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SPECIAL INFORMATION SECTION

TRANSFORMATIONS AEON KITCHENS & DESIGN INC. After more than five years in business providing dream kitchens to clients in Southern Georgian Bay, Aeon Kitchens & Design has a new showroom in Collingwood.

“Our vision for creating breathtaking kitchens and having a lasting impact in our community has led us to become one of Collingwood’s fastest-growing companies,” said owner and president Ross Burley. “We’ll help you reconnect and fall in love with your home by design.”

COLLINGWOOD VITALITY LASER CLINIC Since 2018, Ob/Gyn physicians Dr. Jennifer Tomas and Dr. Susan O’Toole have provided comprehensive care for women’s menopausal health needs, including vaginal laser treatment. Now they’ve relocated their clinic to the Shipyards Medical Arts Centre together with their general obstetrics and gynecology practice, Collingwood Women’s Health Clinic.

“The new clinic space is beautiful, bright and private, and we offer a welcoming, inclusive environment to all of our patients,” said Tomas, adding, “This move has also allowed us to place greater focus on growing the Collingwood Vitality Laser Clinic and helping more women through laser technology.”

After menopause, many women suffer from distressing changes to their vaginal health that affect their quality of life, sexuality and relationships. Collingwood Vitality provides a thorough assessment and review of appropriate treatment options, including vaginal laser treatment with the MonaLisa Touch procedure. “This treatment is effective,

Ross Burley, president of Aeon Kitchens & Design.

The company offers high-end custom cabinetry, countertops, kitchen renovations and design solutions to enhance clients’ lifestyle and enjoyment in their home.

“We have created a unique design process that enables us to capture a comprehensive understanding of your needs and comfortably guide you through the creation of your new kitchen, ensuring personally tailored style, workflow and functionality,” said Burley, who has spent more than 15 years in the industry as a cabinet maker, designer and installer.

“Kitchens are the heart of today’s homes, and we can help you love yours. From inception to completion, we’ll be your partner in creating your dream kitchen. At the heart of everything we do are our core values: quality, integrity and service.”

Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9-4, Sat. 11-2 1 First Street, Unit 104, Collingwood 705-607-7677 aeonkitchens.com

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Dr. Susan O’Toole (left) and Dr. Jennifer Tomas, co-owners of Collingwood Vitality Laser Clinic.

minimally invasive and nonhormonal, and has made a huge impact in the lives of many women in our community,” said Tomas. “We are committed to offering women choice to help empower them to make positive decisions about their health and quality of life.”

Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9-5 Shipyards Medical Arts Centre, 28 Huron Street, Suite 200, Collingwood 705-445-9468 collingwoodvitality.ca

Christian Klöckl-Greimel and Linda de Winter, co-owners of the Creemore 100 Mile Store.

CREEMORE 100 MILE STORE The new owners of Creemore’s charming specialty grocery store, Christian Klöckl-Greimel and Linda de Winter, purchased the business even though they’re currently living in Switzerland.

“In 2018, we decided that, by mid-2020, we would like to move to Canada (I was born and raised in Simcoe County),” said de Winter. “We wanted to invest in a business ahead of time.

The 100 Mile Store was on the list of possibilities.

When we drove into Creemore for the first time, we were enthralled. As soon as we walked into the store, we knew it was a perfect fit.”

She added there are no plans to make major changes to the business. “Jackie Durnford and Sandra Lackie built up a truly amazing business. We love the store the way it is,” said de Winter. “There might be a few tweaks here and there, but no big changes are planned at the moment. We have a fantastic manager, Neal Connolly, and an excellent little team. They are enthusiastic about sourcing really great products.

“We are becoming more and more aware of how important it is to know where your food is coming from. Knowing that you can trust the farmer; that the livestock is treated well and that the produce is grown naturally. Shopping at this store is stepping away from massproduced, over-processed and imported foods and back to the local small-town grocer – but still with a really great selection.”

Hours: Mon., Wed., Thurs. & Sat., 10-5, Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4 176 Mill Street, Creemore 705-466-3514 100milestore.ca All photos courtesy of business owners

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

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COSY LOG CHALET Hand hewn log chalet with deeded access to a private beach.

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VIEWS OF THE BAY Recently renovated 4 bdrm bungalow, private backyard with deck.

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A MARINA TO CALL YOUR OWN

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$2,795,000

130’ WATERFRONT GEORGIAN BAY

Spectacular waterfront property overlooking gorgeous Georgian Bay with unobstructed views. 4 beds, 3 bath family home situated in a highly sought after area on a quiet dead end street. Minutes to Thornbury, skiing, golf, trails, shopping and dining.

Ellen Jarman* 705.441.2630

$1,799,000

NEW HOME ON THE ESCARPMENT

Ideal for the active family who enjoy skiing, biking, hiking and boating close by. Bright, open concept 5 Bdrm and 4 Bath home with 3,828 sq. ft. including a finished basement. Located in nature with attached 2 car garage. MLS®237900. Barb Picot* 705.444.3452 Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

$1,339,000

BUNGALOW IN COLLINGWOOD

1.1 acre lot in a quiet cul-de-sac minutes to the ski hills.

Over 3,400 sq. ft. of main floor living with 4 bedrooms and 3 Baths perfect for the retiree or as a vacation home. 1,000 sq. ft. guest wing plus a 3 car attached garage. MLS®234681. Barb Picot* 705.444.3452 Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

$1,029,000

ON THE GEORGIAN TRAIL

Calling all hikers, bikers, snowshoers and cross country skiers! Access miles of trails right in your backyard from this 1,800 sq. ft. bungalow in Collingwood.

Large lot with beautiful gardens plus a putting green. MLS®207265. Barb Picot* 705.444.3452 Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

$849,900

PARADISE AMIDST THE FOREST!

Hidden away yet minutes to Markdale, Beaver Valley and entertainment destinations this 4-5 bed 2 bath Viceroy with lofted 3 car garage sits on awe-inspiring 51 acres with private stream fed pond, new wrap around deck, pool, hot tub, 2 Fire Places and gas heat!

Cynthia Razum** 519.377.9134

$2,349,000

$2,395,000

NEAR THE BASE OF OSLER BLUFF

Outstanding view property of Georgian Bay and the countryside and near private ski clubs and Blue Mountain.

10.5 acres and over 6,700 sq. ft. with 6 bedrooms and 6 Baths. Attached separate living quarters + hot tub for relaxing. MLS®200213. Barb Picot* 705.444.3452 Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

$1,749,000

Four Season entertaining! 5 bed, 4 bath almost 6,000 sq.ft. of luxurious living space on Georgian Bay. Large open concept living area with wood burning fireplace, hardwood, stone flooring. Master opens to 60 ft deck overlooking the water. LL walkout.

Dave Moyer* 519.379 1996

$1,495,000

WALK TO THE SKI HILLS AT CRAIGLEITH

Located at the base of the slopes! 5 Bedroom, 4 bath home with 3,343 sq. ft. Oversized windows with great views of the ski hills. Stone wood burning fireplace in the Great Room, Gunite saltwater in-ground pool + att.

2 car garage. MLS®241872. Barb Picot* 705.444.3452 Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

SUPREME SUNSET BOULEVARD

Fabulous Colpoy’s Bay! The 3815 sq ft home offers 5 beds, 4.5 baths and open floor plan. Features include main floor master with ensuite, 3 season sunroom with decks, 2 bedrooms with ensuites on upper level and large lower level with walkout, plus 2 storey boathouse.

Gary Taylor** 519.378.4663

$1,090,000

$1,199,000

ONE OF KIND-CUSTOM DESIGN

A turn-key opportunity! Spectacular bay, river and Thornbury Harbour views. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths (2 master beds with ensuites) featuring open concept design, walls of windows, 2 balconies, 2 underground parking spots. This condo is a MUST SEE! Ellen Jarman* 705.441.2630

$999,000

SUNSET, SUNRISE, WATERVIEWS

SOLD

WALK TO DOWNTOWN COLLINGWOOD

Warm and inviting 2-storey, 2,790 sq. ft. home with 4 bedrooms and 4 baths. Everything you can imagine is steps away included. Georgian Bay, biking/hiking trails, trendy bars and boutique shops. Large lot with detached 2 car garage. MLS®237681. Barb Picot* 705.444.3452 Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

$829,000

ADORABLE WATERFRONT COTTAGE

This quaint home with beautiful view of the bay features a natural log great room that has historical background taking you back in time. Stone to ceiling wood burning fireplace, cathedral ceilings and maple floor enhance the character of this home. MLS® 246513.

Ellen Jarman* 705.441.2630

TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY VIEWS

Lighthouse Point Waterfront! Renovated, 2nd floor condo with appealing neutral decor. 1,452 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 baths including an oversized private garage. Front row views of Georgian Bay and the Lighthouse from the large covered deck. MLS®239382. Barb Picot* 705.444.3452 Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

$899,000

MAIN STREET CREEMORE COMMERCIAL

This 86’ of Mill Street frontage offers 36 seats indoors & 22 seats on covered patio. 2068 sf of street-level retail + upstairs office/apt. On-site parking. Stunning highquality build, tasteful interior & top end commercial kitchen. 134mill.ca Chris Assaff* 705.446.6440 Cheryl MacLaurin* 705.446.8005

$795,000

VIEWS OF BEAVER VALLEY

Private location on 4.5 acres. 4 bed 3 bath, main floor master, upper level/2 bed, lower level finished with bed and bath, walk out to yard and fire pit.

Great room with fireplace and vaulted ceilings, wood floors,T&G finishes. READHILTON.COM Read Hilton* 705.351.8100

OWEN SOUND 519.371.5455

COLLINGWOOD/BARRIE 705.445.5454

WIARTON 519.534.5757

FOR ALL OF OUR LISTINGS PLEASE VISIT CHESTNUTPARK.COM $795,000

$794,000

FARMHOUSE, PADDOCKS & 6.8 ACRES

BEAVER VALLEY CHARM

Charming 2-storey brick farmhouse in Meaford with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. 6.8 acres with a barn/horse stalls, paddocks, gardens, mature trees and only minutes walking distance to the shores of Georgian Bay. Awaiting your finishing touches.MLS®248464. Taylor McFadyen* 647.823.5643 Ron Picot* 705.446.8580

Eugenia Falls Guest House, private forested setting, walk to Eugenia Falls and Bruce Trail, open concept, vaulted ceilings with pine accents, bright with 6 bedrooms, 3 baths, lower level suite with kitchenette, excellent rental potential. Gail Crawford* 705.445.3751

Nick Alfano*

Kim Archer*

$699,900

$735,000

Dave Armstrong*

Vince Artuso*

Chris Assaff*

GEORGIAN BAY WATERFRONT

RANCH BUNGALOW ON 90’ OF RIVERFRONT

Wonderful Waterfront home or Cottage with spectacular views of Georgian Bay and the Islands from the north edge of the Bruce Peninsula. 4 bedroms, 2 baths with detached garage. This home has had many recent upgrades. Located close to Tobermory and all amenities.

This one is a must see. Mark McDade* 519.387.7650

Exclusive. 90’ of river frontage. Gorgeous, renovated ranch bungalow on a quiet dead-end street. This 3 bedroom and 2 bath home offers spectacular 180-degree water views. Fully navigable to Georgian Bay. Additional information at 90edgewater.ca.

Rob McAleer* 705.888.3981

Michael Biggins**

Diana Berdini** Office Manager

Vanessa Burgess-Mason*

Gail Crawford*

Judy Crompton**

Maria Elensky*

Michelle Exner*

Aaron Garner*

Heather Garner*

Debra Gibbon*

Read Hilton*

Kate Hobson*

Rob Holroyd**

Keith Hull**

Ellen Jarman*

Blane Johnson*

Kim Johnson*

John M. Kacmar**

Stefanie Kilby*

Cheryl MacLaurin*

Joan Malbeuf*

Sue Mallett*

Kris McAleer*

Rob McAleer*

Melanie McBride*

Mark McDade*

Taylor McFadyen*

Gerry McIntyre*

Lane McMeekin**

Dave Moyer*

Barbara Picot*

Ron Picot*

Cynthia Razum**

Jennifer Ridsdale**

Sandee Roberts**

David Rowlands**

Lori Schwengers**

Ralph Schwengers*

Chris Stevenson*

Gary Taylor**

Mike Taylor*

Neil Thain**

Brendan Thomson*

Jodi-Anne Ward*

Rick Wiles**

Carol Whyne*

Paige Young*

Larisa Yurkiw*

CHESTNUT PARK REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BROKERAGE TORONTO 416.925.9191

HALIBURTON 705.754.0880

MUSKOKA / FOOT’S BAY 705.375.9191

ERIN / CALEDON / MONO 519.833.0888

NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY 905.800.0321

FOREST HILL 647.47.8500

PETERBOROUGH / THE KAWARTHAS 705.652.5000

LAKE OF BAYS / HUNTSVILLE / ALMAGUIN 705.789.1001

LAKE SIMCOE / NORTH OF MARKHAM 289.338.0767

KITCHENER/WATERLOO* 519.804.7200 *Affiliate Office

MUSKOKA / PORT CARLING 705.765.6878

GRAVENHURST 705.765.6878

STRATFORD / HURON-PERTH 289.338.0767

PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY 613.471.1708

*Sales Representative **Broker

EXPAND, FLOURISH THRIVE, GROW… SPRING! EXPERIENCE OUR  SERVICE

MAUREEN GOWANS***

MaureenGowans@ ClairwoodRealEstate.com

SANDI CAIN*

EMMA BAKER**

Emma@ RiouxBakerTeam.com

JOHN COLLINS*

MIKKI BELLIVEAU*

JACKI BINNIE*

MikkiBelliveau@ hotmail.com

Jacki@ RiouxBakerTeam.com

CRAIG DAVIES*

DAVID HOLMAN*

JOANNE BROWN*

JoanneSellingHomes@ gmail.com

PETER LAMY*

Sandi@CainRealtor.ca

John@JohnCollins.ca

Craig@ RiouxBakerTeam.com

David@ RiouxBakerTeam.com

PeterLamy@gmail.com

MICHAEL MAISH*

CHRIS MOFFATLYNCH*

SHERRY RIOUX**

RHONDA RONSON*

STEPHANIE RUMFORD*

GISELLE MARTINº

ALMIRA HAUPTº

Michael@ MichaelMaish.com

BRENDA CROWDERº

BrendaCrowder@ ClairwoodRealEstate.com

Chris@LynchHomes.ca

JANICE ATKINSONº

Contact.col@ ClairwoodRealEstate.com

* Sales Representative

Sherry@ RiouxBakerTeam.com

Contact.col@ ClairwoodRealEstate.com

** Broker

*** Broker of Record

Rhonda@ RonsonRealtor.ca

Almira@ RiouxBakerTeam.com

Steph@ BuyandSellCollingwood.com

HOLLIE KNIGHTº

Hollie@ RiouxBakerTeam.com

ºAdministration

MEMBER OF THE SOUTHERN GEORGIAN BAY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS* AND THE TORONTO REAL ESTATE BOARD

Visit us at ClairwoodRealEstate.com

Evergreen Estates

5 bdrms, 3.5 baths 3883 sq. ft. fin. $1,249,000

Backs Onto School

3 bdrms, 2 baths 1565 sq. ft. fin. $509.900

Backs Onto Golf Course

Nipissing Ridge Rental

Emma Baker** 705-444-3989

Mikki Beliveau* 705-446-6103

Sherry Rioux** 705-443-2793

Jacki Binnie* 705-441-1071

Market Garden Near Thornbury 1 bdrm, 1 bath 1450 sq. ft. $899,000

Desirable Mair Mills

2+2 bdrms, 3 baths 2500 sq. ft. fin. $550,000

Building Lot

3 bdrms, 2.5 baths 1650 sq. ft. $2800/mth

Close To Schools & Downtown

5 bdrms, 4 baths 4450 sq. ft. fin. $1,425,000

Convenient Location 60’ x 200’ $169,000

Sandi Cain* 519-535-2622

John Collins* 416-806-6197

Joanne Brown* 705-994-5255

3 bdrms, 1.5 baths 1691 sq. ft. fin $529,000

Emma Baker** 705-444-3989

Lighthouse Islander Bldg

For Sale or Rent

2 bdrms, 2 baths 1027 sq. ft. $450,000

Sherry Rioux** 705-443-2793

4 bdrms, 3 baths 1686 sq. ft. $619,500 or $2900/mth

66 Acres on Beaver River

Cranberry Corner Suite

David Holman* 416-930-2558

Stephanie Rumford* 705-606-4982

3 bdrms, 2 baths 2793 sq. ft. $1,350,000

Chris Moffat-Lynch* 705-606-0850

Walk to Blue

McKean Subdivision

Sherry Rioux** 705-443-2793

Craig Davies* 289-685-8513

4 bdrms, 2 baths 1845 sq. ft. $899,000

COLLINGWOOD 705.445.7085

3 bdrms, 2.5 baths 3250 sq. ft. $1,150,000

3 bdrms, 2.5 baths 1437 sq. ft. $395,000

Mins to Beaver Valley Ski Club

4 Season Chalet in Castle Glen

Rhonda Ronson* 705-888-8700

Peter Lamy* 705-888-5809

3 bdrms, 1.5 baths 1803 sq. ft. fin. $599,000

TOLL FREE 8 7 7. 4 4 5 . 7 0 8 5

3 bdrms, 1 bath 1200 sq. ft. $595,000

TORONTO 8 7 7. 4 4 5 . 7 0 8 5

BRINGING THE WORLD TO YOUR DOOR OVERLOOKING THORNBURY

Timber Frame home on 2.5 acres. Huge kitchen & dining room with pantry & baker’s kitchen. 17 ft indoor swim spa. 26 ft diameter dome greenhouse.

MLS®#230080 6 | 6 | 4,400 ft2

RAVENNA – 25 PRIVATE ACRES

Custom designed fully scribed log home. 28 ft ceiling, large kitchen. Muskoka Room with dining & 2nd wood burning fireplace. Lower level games room, theatre & bike room. MLS®#224439 5 | 4 | 4,775 ft2

CRAIGLEITH WATERFRONT

Located in the center of all the area has to offer. 66’ on the shores of Georgian Bay, this property boasts panoramic water views, “4 season” Bunkie & 1 ½ car garage and workshop. MLS®#231993 2 | 1 | 1,221 ft2

$1,800,000

$1,850,000

$1,200,000

Todd Brooker** 705-888-1818

Todd Brooker** 705-888-1818

Blair Thompson** 705-446-8507

PINE STREET – COLLINGWOOD

Stunning Victorian in Historic downtown Collingwood. Grand main flr w foyer, o’sized living rm, 2 f/p’s, spacious chef’s kitchen. Radiates with character, charm & warmth. MLS®#227586 3 | 2 | 2,800 ft2

DUKE LOFTS CONDO

“THE FOREST” - BEST PRICED BUNGALOW

Maintenance-free condo living in a townhousestyle configuration. 12’/13’ ceilings. Gourmet kitchen. 2 car private, tandem parking grg. Custom craftsmanship. MLS®#240658 3 | 3 | 2,405 ft2

Set amongst the tall pines of this exclusive enclave, sits this lovely ranch style bungalow. Spacious formal living / dining area, eat-in kitchen, sunroom & Great Room with gas fireplace. MLS®#238360 3 | 3 | 2,100 ft2

$1,098,000

$849,000

$939,000

Loretta McInnis* 705-443-1659 Tara Parsons* 705-888-8272

Loretta McInnis* 705-443-1659 Tara Parsons* 705-888-8272

Lorraine Champion* 705-441-3642

CRAIGLEITH SHORES

STUNNING, PEACEFUL CHALET

Between the ski hills & Georgian Bay, this reno’d, turn-key unit is perfectly situated to enjoy the beauty & activities of the Collingwood area. Enjoy the pool, sauna & low maintenance fees. MLS®#248202 1 | 1 | 560 ft2

Quality & craftmanship in this log home. Cathedral ceilings, lrg windows. Gourmet kit w/ walk-in pantry, granite island. Mins to Osler Bluff Ski Club, Blue Mountain, downtown Collingwood. MLS®#228255 5 | 4 | 5,262 ft2

DEVIL’S GLEN

Very private, upper deck, lower floor walkout, forced air heat, open concept. Natural beautiful surroundings with fantastic views. MLS®#244154

3 |

4 |

2,268 ft2

$279,000

$1,495,000

$329,000

Janet Piotrowski* 705-994-5858

Janet Piotrowski* 705-994-5858

Blair Thompson** 705-446-8507

four seasons realty limited, Brokerage Independently Owned and Operated

67 First St., Collingwood 705-445-8500 47 Bruce St., Thornbury 519-599-2600 202 Montreal St., Stayner 705-428-4500

www.remaxcollingwood.com

*sales representative **broker ***broker of record

Maddy Gillis

Doug Gillis

*

Broker

Broker of Record* A track record of excellence

2017

Direct: 705.888.1616 maddy@maddygillis.ca

Direct: 705.444.3853 doug@douggillis.ca PEAKS RIDGE

WINDROSE ESTATES

$1,885,000

122 Maryward Crescent, Blue Mountains 4

$1,995,000

6 Meadowlark Way,

Stunning home with views of the Niagara Escarpment & Georgian Bay. Cathedral ceilings in living room, kitchen has oversized island & floor to ceiling cabinets. The main floor master has 16’ ceilings, a spa like bathroom & walk-in closet. Upper level loft could be used as a living room/den or office space. Close to ski hills, golfing, Thornbury, Craigleith, Collingwood & Georgian Bay.

ALPINE SKI CLUB

5

5,453 Total FT

6

4+1

5

5,566 Total FT

4

4+1

4,610 Total FT2

New build by Pinnacle Building Group.

Exceptional craftsmanship & attention to detail in this stunning 4,610 sq. ft walkout stone bungalow with a 600 sq. ft. covered porch. Finished lower level. Views of Georgian Bay, Escarpment & pond.

PEAKS BAY

PEAKS RIDGE

NIPISSING RIDGE

$1,995,000

5

4+1

$1,895,000

100 George McRae Road,

Blue Mountains

6,265 Total FT

Blue Mountains 2

New home located between Georgian Bay and the Escarpment with community access to the water. View of Georgian Peaks ski hills & seasonal view of Georgian Bay. Stunning kitchen with built-in appliances, large island, walk-in pantry and breakfast nook opening to cozy living room with gas fireplace. Fully finished basement.

168 Delphi Lane, 2

4+1

$2,585,000

105 Stone Zack Lane,

Blue Mountains 2

$1,900,000 Blue Mountains

$1,999,000

Remarkable home with multiple upgrades and wonderful open concept main floor. High-end kitchen with Wolf/Bosch appliances and wine cellar opening into the dining room and 2-storey Great room with vaulted ceiling & stone floorto-ceiling gas fireplace. Master suite with fireplace, walk-in closet and 5 piece bath. Great views of Osler Bluff ski hills and surrounding Escarpment.

W NE ICE R P

207 Arrowhead Road,

GEORGIAN BAY CLUB

161 Delphi Lane,

Clearview 5

3+1 3,980 Total FT

2

PEAKS BAY

W NE ICE R P

2018

Blue Mountains

5,353 Total FT

2

4

3+1

4,260 Total FT

2

$1,495,000 123 Cortina Crescent, Blue Mountains 5

3+1

4,448 Total FT2

Custom contemporary chalet backing onto green space & ravine with views of the Mountain & ski hills. Features 22’ vaulted ceiling in great room, fireplace, walkout to stone patio, chef’s kitchen with walk-in pantry, master bedroom with dressing room & mud room on main level. Close to Craigleith & Alpine Ski Clubs.

Thoughtfully designed home with views of Georgian Peaks ski hills & Georgian Bay plus access to the Bay. Open concept main level with custom woodburning fireplace, stunning kitchen with marble island, countertops & backsplash and large mudroom with built-ins. 2nd floor master with walk-in closet and 5 piece bath.

Newly built custom home with views of Georgian Bay. True workmanship and top of the line materials make this open concept home an ideal place to call home. Located close to Georgian Bay, Collingwood, Thornbury & ski hills.

Custom built home in the coveted Nipissing Ridge subdivision close to skiing, golf, and Georgian Bay! A gas fireplace adds a warm ambiance to the living room & the sunroom features a wood burning fireplace & many windows. Private, treed lot with expansive patios great for entertaining family & friends.

SIERRA WOODLANDS

WINDFALL

GEORGIAN BAY CLUB

WATERFRONT PROPERTY

$895,000

#50-214 Blueski George Blue Mountains 3

3+1

2,343 Total FT

2

Highly sought town home with two large decks and view of the ski hills! Open concept kitchen/dining/living room on the second level with stone gas fireplace. This neighborhood has access to a community pool & close to hiking trails.

Located near Alpine and Craigleith Ski Clubs & Blue Mountain Resort.

$649,900

185 Yellow Birch Crescent, Blue Mountains 3

3+1

1,965 Total FT

2

Semi-detached, “Crawford” model with many upgrades.

Great, open concept main floor living. The living room has a gas fireplace & sliding doors out to the back yard. This unit has an indoor access door to the garage at the stair landing going down to the basement which is unique & rare! Located minutes to the amenities in Collingwood & walking distance to Blue Mountain Resort.

* Top 100 RE/MAX Agents in Canada * 1999, 2000, 2002, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2019.

$599,000

Lot 24 Stone Zack Lane, Blue Mountains Building Lot Ideal family lot. Exceptional, fully serviced lot backing onto pond and greenspace. Almost 3/4 of an acre allows for many configurations for the home of your dreams with room left over for a pool, cabana, circular driveway, etc. HST included in purchase price.

$1,475,000

209329 26 Highway, Blue Mountains 3

2

1,600 Total FT2

Charming 1,600 sq. ft. bungalow just west of Craigleith Provincial Park. Vistas of the Escarpment as well as long views across Georgian Bay. Single slip boathouse and shed on the property. Enjoy the cottage while you plan your new build in this special location. Views of both sunrise and sunset.

www.douggillis.ca RE/MAX four seasons Doug Gillis & Associates Realty, Brokerage 67-A First Street, Collingwood

Direct:

705.444.3853

Chris Kapches, President and CEO, and Diana Lea Berdini, Broker/Office Manager Collingwood, Owen Sound and Barrie are pleased to announce the 2019 Award Recipients for outstanding sales performance.

CHAIRMAN’S AWARD

VICE-CHAIRMAN’S AWARD

Barbara Picot*

Rob McAleer*

Cheryl MacLauren*

Heather Garner*

Mark McDade*

Lori Schwengers**

Ellen Jarman*

Gary Taylor**

Gerry McIntyre*

Paige Young*

PRESIDENT’S AWARD

Gail Crawford*

Read Hilton*

Keith Hull**

Kimberly Brine*

Vanessa Burgess-Mason*

Jennifer Ridsdale**

DIRECTOR’S AWARD

John M. Kacmar**

Mike Taylor*

Larisa Yurkiw*

TRUST INTEGRITY KNOWLEDGE Anita Lauer*

Dave Moyer*

DISCRETION

Brendan Thomson*

CHESTNUT PARK REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BROKERAGE | CHESTNUTPARK.COM COLLINGWOOD/BARRIE 705.445.5454

OWEN SOUND 519.371.5455

WIARTON 519.534.5757

*

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

**

BROKER

READER BUYING GUIDE For more information, link directly to advertisers at www.onthebaymagazine.com

ANIMALS/PETS Georgian Triangle Humane Society

FOOD/DRINK PAGE 59, 94

ARTS/THEATRE/MUSEUMS

Creemore 100 Mile Store

PAGE 108

Heretic Spirits

PAGE 36

Foodland Thornbury

PAGE 53

ArtBank Collective

PAGE 110

BMFA Arts Centre

PAGE 110

FURNITURE

Cecilia Spihlmann, Artist

PAGE 110

FAD Farrow Arcaro Design

Collingwood Art School

PAGE 110

Orangeville Furniture

PAGE 128

Collingwood Museum

PAGE 102

Urban Country Chair

PAGE 90

Craig Gallery

PAGE 110

GOLF

Fine Art Gallery

PAGE 110

OslerBrook

Golden Gallery Tobermory

PAGE 110

Meaford Hall & Cultural Centre

PAGE 102

Tara McLellan Graphic Designer

PAGE 110

The Loft Gallery Theatre Collingwood

PAGE 110 PAGE 47

Brokerage, Karen Willison

Collingwood Optometry

PAGE 26

Brokerage, Krista LeSage

Collingwood Sport Medicine and Rehabilitation Centre

PAGE 31

Brokerage, The Chris Keleher Team

Culford Family Hearing

PAGE 91

Royal LePage RCR Realty, Brokerage Basia Regan

Dr. Robert McCoppen Family Dentistry

PAGE 32

Erie Street Dental

PAGE 46

Dr. Amber Perry

PAGE 30

HEALTH/BEAUTY/FITNESS Good Health Mart Collingwood

PAGE 33

IFY Infrared Fitness & Yoga

PAGE 30

Laser Aid

PAGE 32

PAGE 32

Scandinave Spa

PAGE 89

TruBalance Healthcare

PAGE 88

PROFESSIONAL/FINANCIAL/ LEGAL Baker Tilly SBG LLP, Chartered Accountants Barriston Law LLP

PAGE 64

McKee Muffler

PAGE 65

HEATING/AIR CONDITIONING/ ELECTRICAL

McLaughlin Auto Wreckers

PAGE 65

Clarksburg Contractors

Speedy Glass

PAGE 65

HOME DÉCOR/DESIGN

Sward & Co. Car Care

PAGE 65

FAD Farrow Arcaro Design

PAGE 15

National Bank Financial Wealth

Jill Maxwell Design

PAGE 54

Management, Jamie Bennett

La Bella Vita Décor & Gift

PAGE 53

Rudy Mak Surveying Ltd.

PAGE 106

Collingwood G&M Hospital mycollingwood.ca

PAGE 44 PAGE 109

EVENTS

BlueRock Wealth Management Inc.

Salnek’s Window Fashions & Accessories

PAGE 49

Barristers & Solicitors CPA Professional Corporation

PAGE 39

PAGE 14

TD Wealth Management,

PAGE 2

City Stone

PAGE 53

Court Contractors

PAGE 93

Huronia Container Rentals

PAGE 90

PAGE 33

The Waterfront Group, CIBC Wood Gundy, Dan Wynnyk

The New Classical 102.9 FM

PAGE 78

Vision TV

PAGE 81

Zoomer Radio

PAGE 101

PAGE 75

Phoenix Renovations & Repairs

PAGE 95

REAL ESTATE

Collingwood Summer Music Festival

PAGE 73

Seeley & Arnill Construction

PAGE 97

Chestnut Park Real Estate Limited,

Furball Gala

PAGE 94

South Gate Cabinets

PAGE 88

Brabary Fine Lingerie

PAGE 38

Elaine Dickinson’s Fashions

PAGE 38

Vaiya

PAGE 40

FLOORING

PAGE 118, 119, 124

Brokerage

13 Forty Landscape Supplies

PAGE 106

Environmental Pest Control

PAGE 107

Garden Holistics

PAGE 102

Green Earth Landscapes

PAGE 105

Maple Leaves Forever

PAGE 105

Maxwell Garden Centre

PAGE 107

Mulch-It

PAGE 103

Dean’s Carpet One

PAGE 92

Shouldice Designer Stone

PAGE 87

Meaford Carpets & Interiors

PAGE 54

The Landmark Group

PAGE 11

PAGE 122

Re/Max Four Seasons Realty Ltd., Brokerage Doug Gillis, Maddy Gillis

PAGE 123

Royal LePage Locations North Realty Inc., Brokerage

PAGE 18, 19, 43

Royal LePage Locations North Realty Inc., Brokerage, Christine Smith

PAGE 6

Royal LePage Locations North Realty Inc., Brokerage, Josh Dolan

(Georgian International)

PAGE 69

(Sherwood Homes)

PAGE 25

Wasaga Urban (Mamta Homes)

PAGE 48

Stonebridge by the Bay

PAGE 39

Summit View (Devonleigh Homes)

PAGE 34, 35

(Georgian International)

PAGE 67

Beyond the Gate

PAGE 54

Copper Blues Bar & Grill

PAGE 108

CARP

PAGE 52

SEPTIC SERVICES Ardiel Septic Services

PAGE 106

Blue Mountain Resort

PAGE 12

TRAVEL/ACCOMMODATION

PAGE 120, 121

Re/Max Four Seasons Realty Ltd., Brokerage

PAGE 5

SKIING

Clairwood Real Estate Corporation,

LANDSCAPE/GARDEN

Mountaincroft (Grandview Homes)

SENIOR SERVICES

Classic Movies on the Bay

PAGE 107

PAGE 127

RADIO/TELEVISION

Brokerage

PAGE 23

RESTAURANTS

Darryn Stroud

AllPro Roofing

(Fram + Slokker)

Windfall Blue Mountain

RBC Dominion Securities Inc., Tim Heacock

PAGE 87

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS

Mountain House at Windfall

PAGE 31

PAGE 54

Barrie Gold Buyer

PAGE 9

PAGE 41

CPA Professional Corporation

HOME IMPROVEMENT & SUPPLY

PAGE 8

PAGE 29

LM Rourke,

PAGE 13

Jane Moysey & Lorraine McDonald

Royal Windsor Condos

Meaford Carpets & Interiors

PAGE 41

PAGE 117

Brian Hill

Cathie Hunt,

PAGE 55

Barb’s Clothes Closet

Brokerage

PAGE 91

PAGE 26

Bowls for Beds

FASHION/JEWELRY

PAGE 53

PAGE 85

Brian Renken Professional Corporation,

Aeon Kitchens & Design

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Suzanne Lawrence

Blue Vista (Royalton Homes)

PAGE 28

Master Mechanic

PAGE 93

Royal LePage RCR Realty, Brokerage

Collingwood Quay Condominiums

Chartered Accountants

PAGE 64

L. Patten & Sons Ltd.

PAGE 47

PAGE 46

BDO Canada LLP,

JJ Automotive Insight

BUILDERS/CONTRACTORS/ LAND SURVEYORS

PAGE 3

Royal LePage Trinity Realty Inc.,

PAGE 58

PAGE 103

Royal LePage Locations North Realty Inc.,

PAGE 26

Blue Mountain Chrysler

Walker’s Small Motors

PAGE 88

Collingwood Vitality Laser Clinic

Georgian Bay Psychology PAGE 50

PAGE 27

Royal LePage Locations North Realty Inc.,

Royal LePage Trinity Realty Inc., Brokerage

Revive Facial Rejuvenation & Foot Care

AUTO/SMALL MOTORS

PAGE 15

Royal LePage Locations North Realty Inc.,

MEDICAL/DENTAL PROFESSIONALS

PAGE 45

Living Water Resorts

PAGE 4

Marlin Travel

PAGE 89

Town of Collingwood

PAGE 56, 57

University Club

PAGE 17

WINDOW FASHIONS Ashton’s Blinds, Draperies & Shutters

PAGE 89

Salnek’s Window Fashions & Accessories

PAGE 13

Shades & Shutters

PAGE 90

ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

125

B A C K

PHOTO COURTESY OF COLLINGWOOD MUSEUM COLLECTION, 004.45.1

L O O K I N G

Picnic on the

T

POINT

his photo, likely taken in the late 1800s or early 1900s, shows picnickers at what is known today as Sunset Point Park.

The area was called Fisherman’s Point when it was purchased in 1888 by local businessman and town councillor Bernard Callary, who later became mayor of Collingwood. It was named Georgian Bay Park and opened on July 1, 1888 with a concert and fireworks. Later in the month, families held a picnic there with a band playing. It quickly became a favourite spot in the warmer months, and soon, summer residences were being built on the streets that sprang up around the park.

The local newspaper, the Enterprise-Messenger, reported in June, 1890, “Every convenience is afforded for the pleasure of the picnic visitor, such as cooking stoves and utensils,

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ON THE BAY

SPRING 2020

tables, seats, abundance of water, etc., while the shady groves, swings, tents and large playgrounds make the arrangement as complete as can be desired.”

In 1897, after Callary passed away, the town purchased the park from his estate for $1,500. It was renamed Victoria Park in honour of Queen Victoria’s jubilee, but locals knew it as Callary’s Park. In June, 1926, more than 1,000 people were on hand for the formal opening of the newly renamed “hot weather haven,” Sunset Point Park.

Today the park is a local gem that continues to attract picnickers, walkers, bicyclists and sightseers to enjoy views of Georgian Bay, Blue Mountain and spectacular sunsets over the water. ❧.

Source: Collingwood Museum

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