GREY COUNTY LIFE

Well, it seems things are slowly starting to open again (at least at time of writing!) and let’s hope this is sustained.

The government decided that the services I provide as a Realtor were essential and, as a result, we have been fortunate enough to be able to continue working through the pandemic when so many other people were not. It was no typical day at the office and it didn’t come without its own set of stressors, but I do consider myself fortunate. As I have mentioned in previous editorials, the market remained hot all through the pandemic. We had a lot of calls from the GTA, people looking to find space and recreation. We are a reasonable drive to the city and honestly, can you blame anyone for wanting to move here?

This worked out well for you as a seller pricewise, but it also meant more people who were coming from areas with higher numbers of COVID-19 cases or “covid hotspots” travelling to the area. As an industry, Realtors took action to protect our clients, ourselves and our families. You likely noticed a shift to more virtual showings, improved online presence, virtual open houses and other inventive ideas to market your home. For those times where in-person showings, inspections and meetings were necessary, Realtors adopted enhanced screening protocols (my car will forever smell like hand sanitizer), and limited inperson contact through technology at the office.

As we navigated COVID-19 as a community, I was inspired by our resiliency; neighbours watching out for neighbours, people supporting local, community groups and businesses adapting and innovating. That is what makes living in Grey County special. Sure, the natural wonders bring people to the area, but it’s the sense of community that makes them stay. I am very proud to be able to call this area home, and I am really looking forward to getting back out in the community!

REUBEN MCCALLUM Sales Representative, RE/MAX High Country Realty Inc., Brokerage facebook.com/reubenmccallumrealtor www.reubenmccallum.com (519) 477-0418

Not intended to solicit Buyers or Sellers currently under contract

Reuben McCallum kicks off this edition with more reasons to love Grey County! PUBLISHER’S NOTE...p8

Papa Country reveals his real name (and phone number!). Dun-dun-duuuun..

BACK TO BUSINESS...p10

Michelle Patey from the Grey Highlands Chamber of Commerce is excited to get Back To Business! COVER STORY... p16

We’re pleased to feature Donna Mann on this month’s cover. Thank you to Flesherton’s Barry Penhale and Jane Gibson for a wonderful article!

TRAVEL ...p20

Mike Wixson, Producer of the Hello Country Podcast, takes us on a journey to the Mattawa River Resort.

FLESHERTON CALLING... p28

Symphony in a Barn? Yep. Read Kevin Land’s profile on Kevin Mallon; West Grey resident, conductor & musical director...and pig farmer.

CARTOON...p30

Jeff Wilson wonders what Back To Business will look like as we tip-toe into a new normal. HELLO COUNTRY MAGAZINE is the only free, monthly magazine of its kind focused on life in Grey Highlands. It’s delivered by Canada Post to homes and farms with Kimberley, Markdale, Flesherton, Heathcote, Maxwell, Singhampton, and Priceville addresses, as well as every business in Grey Highlands. Copies are also available for pick-up at selected local businesses.

We capture life in Grey Highlands by highlighting the many positive contributions to our community by local farmers, business owners, elected officials, and residents.

Hello Country is proudly independent and published from a barn / pick-up truck / stable / home office in beautiful Flesherton, Ontario!

From our family to yours, we thank you very much for reading!

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