august
LET THEM EAT CAKE
MAY YOU ALWAYS SEE THE LIGHT
STEELTOWN GARAGE CO.
Toronto-developer Brad Lamb has big plans for Hamilton
ART FEATURE ON NATHAN EUGENE Carson
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Cake & Loaf building a solid reputation as an employer
Kick-ass espresso and motorcycle lifestyle in Hamilton
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TELEVISION CITY
2017-07-29 1:17 AM
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URBANICITY.CA
A letter From
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the editor + publisher
P U B L I S H E R + E D I TO R ANDREA FERNANDES andrea@urbanicity.ca L AYO UT & D ES I G N Tafari Anthony COV ER PHOTO B Y Tafari Anthony D I ST R I B UT I O N urbanicity Magazine
urbanicity Magazine is wholly owned and published by urbanicity Magazine. All content copyright © 2017 and all rights to distribution are reserved by urbanicity Magazine. As a forum for ideas, issues, and experiences, the views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Publisher, Editor, other contributors, advertisers or distributors unless otherwise stated. D I ST R I B UT I O N 40,000+ readers per month. Distributed throughout Hamilton, Dundas, Ancaster, Stoney Creek, Waterdown, Aldershot, and Burlington. 12 issues per year. (289) 796.0931 ADVERTISING INQUIRES andrea@urbanicity.ca
Gentrification seems to be the word on the lips of many Hamiltonians at the moment. Is this city being gentrified? Does Toronto have plans to take over? Is Hamilton set to lose its unique and assertive edge? Having chosen to leave Toronto to work in Hamilton, I can definitely understand the fascination with this city. The pleasant mix of newcomers and long-time Hamiltonians who are working hard to accomplish their dreams and re-build Hamilton is contagious.
www.urbanicity.ca
The energy is electrifying and we are surrounded by movers and shakers who are working hard to get their businesses off the
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ground. Check out the story of Steeltown Garage Co. (pg. 13), a business duo who has been traveling for the past eight years, but decided to head back home to Hamilton to pursue the dream of a kick-ass espresso and motorcycle lifestyle shop. Or read about the fizz Sodas + Sandwiches (pg.12) that just opened up a new restaurant with delicious Hamilton themed eats. Or Cake and Loaf (pg. 8) and all its continued success. All eyes are on Hamilton and this issue explores the need to be both protective of what Hamilton has worked hard to create but also accepting of new ideas and experiences. Read what Glen Norton, director
of economic development for the City of Hamilton (pg. 8), has to say on the importance of showcasing Hamilton to the GTA but also establishing a dynamic relationship with Toronto that communicates that Hamilton does not want to be Toronto. urbanicity Magazine is proud to be at the heart of Hamilton’s ideas, issues and experiences and we are here to showcase our city as it evolves. Andrea Fernandes
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I d ea s
Television City the New View of Hamilton Toronto-developer Brad Lamb has big plans for Hamilton
“For years I’ve been making annual overnight visits to the city to take in the culture, food, nature and development.”
Photos provided by Lamb Developments
Is the secret officially out? You certainly don’t have to go far to find a Hamiltonian willing to passionately sell the merits of our city to any and all listeners – whether they want to hear it or not. But now we may be on the cusp of something completely different. Perhaps something we haven’t seen since the local steel industry boom of the ‘50s; although, that era had enough grit, suspended particulate and labour strife to scare off the less hardened. Today, people outside our city’s borders are passionate about Hamilton. As hard as it may be for our parents to comprehend this, people really want to live here. The combination of factors that has led to this demand have been well documented and debated. Do we really have something a little different here? Or, is this all a function of fleeting affordability? Enter the renowned and respected Toronto-developer Brad Lamb. This former understudy of Harry Stinson – another developer who’s made
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big plans and enjoyed success here in Hamilton– has made his fondness for our city very apparent. “Hamilton's rich culture and potential has had my attention for a while,” Brad explains. “For years I’ve been making annual overnight visits to the city to take in the culture, food, nature and development. It was about two years ago that I really started to take interest in developing here.” The backup for Brad’s ringing endorsement comes by way of plans for 30 and 40 story condo towers set to vault skyward from site of the CHCH headquarters – aptly named Television City. This $360 million project will bring 618 condo units to downtown. And the plans include the preservation and reuse of the Pinehurst Mansion, built in 1850, that has been occupied by CHCH since 1953. In a city where heritage buildings frequently meet the wrecking ball, a warm welcome generally awaits developers who recognize their value.
“Hamilton's revitalization still reflects the city's culture and history. I wanted Television City to mirror that essence of Hamilton,” Brad explains. “Preserving the heritage of the 1850s mansion, featuring playful displays of vintage televisions keep the aesthetic both nostalgic and modern. “ As you would expect, the plan calls for plenty of amenities. Along with features like an outdoor infinity pool and skyclub, Television City will also include an open workspace area – an area designed to encourage creative collaboration and a digital solution to work-at-home needs. This has definite appeal to the city’s growing demographic of young professionals. And, given the long-term economic impact this group wields, drawing them downtown should appeal to everyone else as well. When it comes to identifying who the potential residents are, Brad points out that this is more about a mindset than age ranges and income brackets. “Our target audience for Television City would be individuals that are forward thinkers that desire an elevated
style of living.” Brad underscores that the diversity of the units reflects the desire to be inclusive of a diverse range of residents. “We're designing Television City to ensure that there is something for everyone, from single people living in bachelor units to a growing family living in the three-bedroom penthouse.” Promotional materials also list another key feature – that prices will be 20% lower than comparable units in Toronto. Overt affordability comparisons also seem to be a new trend when marketing our city to those down the highway. And that can cause more than a few of us to bristle. Being a lower priced alternative to Toronto doesn’t exactly play to our HamOnt pride. But, while costof-entry is a big selling point, there are plenty of others to complement. Brad is one of a number who have drawn a link between Hamilton and Brooklyn. While the scope is enormously different, there are similarities to our relationship with Toronto and theirs with Manhattan. And of course, a common denominator is the more
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Television City the New View of Hamilton Toronto-developer Brad Lamb has big plans for Hamilton
affordable cost of living. But Brad explains that there is a more emotional and intangible tie with Brooklyn. “I believe there is a cultural parallel. Over the years, Hamilton has progressed from its past as a steel town to a city rich in culture and community,” he explains. “The focus has shifted from heavy industry to art crawls, galleries and some phenomenal restaurants. It is undeniably in the midst of a cultural renaissance.” Hearing a successful Toronto-developer draw these comparisons gives plenty of fuel for Hamilton’s new-found optimism. Or, one would think, anyway. I’ve been in enough coffee shop conversations to know that there’s a prevalent air of concern when it comes to anything from Toronto. I’m sure the editors of BlogTO can attest to this. Even the recent Hamilton Consulate initiative – where the economic and civic leaders of our city plunked a presentation centre right in downtown Toronto – was met with its share of mild scoffing. But to have caught the eye of developers willing to make a significant investment in our downtown, and who appear to be exercising an understanding of the cultural fabric, is a feat to be celebrated. And, if we play our cards right, we can enable this momentum to continue. As objectively as possible for someone with a few million investment dollars involved, Brad offers some insights as to how our city policymakers can help keep things moving in the right direction. Embracing the new and different is an important aspect of that. “Hamilton ratepayers and the municipal government need to allow good change to take place,” he says. “There may be a tendency to get cocky and restrictive with the coming attention and
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that won’t be good for Hamilton. In the early stages of a city’s re-energization (as Toronto did post 1996), there needs to be an openness to ideas and a patience in maximizing fee generation at the city level. If you build it, they will come.” Television City is an impressive project that will not only enhance our skyline, it’s another push toward changing the old perceptions of Hamilton. Perhaps we can even give ourselves a pat on the back for our part in all of this. There’s no doubt that the vibe has changed. Through a lot of effort from a lot of people we’ve created an environment that people want to be a part of. We’ve shared Hamilton’s story of resurgence far and wide – arguably better than any other city in our situation has. And now developers like Brad Lamb want in on it. For those who have lived through Hamilton’s blighted past, that’s a pretty remarkable reward.
By chris sansilo
Chris Sanislo is a freelance copywriter with a passion for Hamilton. He has over 15 years of experience in the Canadian Advertising industry. Chris crafts his copy from downtown Hamilton's CoMotion on King, where he serves as the in-house blogger. @ chrissanislo
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Issues
Gentrification in Hamilton People don’t stand still, economies are never static, and no city is an island Last weekend was great. What made it great was, as a life long resident of Hamilton who typically feels as though he’s done and seen 90% of what’s to be done and seen, with lovely company, I did and went to places I had never done or been to before.
Realistically, the streets of Hamilton already read like a story of nonstop population displacement for the entirety of the city’s history.
On Friday night I had drinks at the new Capitol Bar on King East, by the beautiful Barnesdale Avenue. On Saturday, I had a late breakfast verging on early dinner at the Market, followed by a stop in to the awesome new Steeltown Garage on Barton and James, which itself was then followed by serendipitous stop in at the new Fairweather Brewery off Ewen Road in the west. It was all an antidote to the grey rainy skies, and reminder of how excitingly our city is changing. Sadly, however, there are those in the city who would decry these sorts of new establishments as symbols of dreaded “gentrification.” Bunk. This year alone many businesses and establishments, both new and longstanding, have been vandalized or harassed with anti-gentrification sentiment. I wrote somewhere else recently that frustrating as that may be, it is far more disappointing for the lack of understanding and big picture thinking that it represents. Hamilton was founded in 1845, it is now 172 years old. It was generally a prosperous city from the start and realistically did not have an image or identity “grittier” than any other mid sized Canadian city. The biggest industrial boom time started in the mid 20th century, when it was already nearly a century old. Largely induced by the war era industrial need, Hamilton positioned itself as the blue-collar steelcity, at a time when that meant something far different, and by all metrics, far better than it does now. The biggest down turn, and essentially economic transition began to impact the city in the 70s and became pronounced across the 80s and 90s. Why the sweeping, generalized history lesson? To illustrate that the identity most commonly associated with Hamilton really only exists for at best 82 years or 47% of its history, and the gritty, depressed identity for about 35 years or 20%.
Photo by RYAN MORAN
We like to believe our current story, but we’re writing it out of our short-term memories. So that begs the question, is what we’re seeing in Hamilton now gentrification, or normalization after a period, and sub-blip, in our city’s much longer economic history? Complicated, and to be sure, it is both, but anti-gentrification sentiment leveled against small businesses opening in the city, particularly those being opened by people not originally from Hamilton, have much more to do with a misunderstanding of long-term normalization than they do with actual gentrification. What’s more, the logic behind such complaints finds much more common ground with Trump style wall and anti-newcomer rhetoric, than it does with real, valid criticisms of gentrification. To be clear, gentrification is occurring, but it has very little to do with a restaurant that charges $20 for pancakes, espressos and LRT, nor are “people from Toronto” to blame. Though undoubtedly migration from down the highway is tied to what we’re experiencing, let’s not forget that it was migration to Toronto, from cities all across the country, including ours, that contributed to their situation to begin with. People don’t stand still, economies are never static, and no city is an island. At its core, gentrification is about displacement of people, not micro-breweries or coffee shops. Taking issue with
the latter makes little sense and acting in anyway against them makes even less, it changes nothing, and just victimizes the owners. Realistically, the streets of Hamilton already read like a story of nonstop population displacement for the entirety of the city’s history. Whether it’s the days when the steelworkers lived in the north and their management in the south, the English then Italian and Portuguese of the Jamesville area, or the post-war European immigration to northwest neighbourhoods (initially resisted by their angloprotestant predecessors). All them, more or less, eventually resettling in one way or another to the Mountain, Binbrook, Ancaster, or Stoney Creek. So what’s happening now is, to a very real extent, no different from what’s already happened over and over, the difference is the speed, direction, and cost. Speed in that it’s happening in what feels like overnight, the direction in that it is signalling a return to the lower city core, rather than the evacuation of it over the last 30 years, and cost in that it is pricing out those who did come to settle there in that time. And ironically, those being priced out, and choosing to stay in Hamilton’s limits are finding residence in affordable Mountain and Stoney Creek communities. And it’s in this trend that those decrying a cupcake shop as gentrification are not simply mislead, they’re no where to be found. Instead of complaining on social media, or spray painting an independent business, how about helping
to propose solutions? To push political representatives for market regulations, to push for mixed-income and social housing developments, to support large scale transit investments so that people can work and move across the city, and to support the development of small businesses, shops, and restaurants so that people can both earn and enjoy a high standard of living in their own community. Instead of seeing, and misguidedly taking issue with some trees, how about collectively working to make the forest better? It was a great weekend, I’m excited by the new places I experienced, and can’t wait to have more weekends like that in the years to come. Gentrification, aside from being a buzzy, “boogey-man” word, is less a force than it is a phone call that we have over a long period of time, the conversation is up to us.
By Ryan Moran
Ryan is a proud Hamilton, Ontario native, interested in style, travel, adventure, arts and culture and always trying to be better. In other lives Ryan is an MBA, a Senior Manager of Marketing for Niagara Parks, and a Co-Founder/ Owner of CoMotion On King. In his rare spare time, he enjoys writing and photography. @ RPMoran
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EXPERIENCES
The Hamilton Consulate Shines in Toronto Targeting GTA investors and helping them understand Hamilton’s economy
Will we stop marketing to the GTA? In a word, no. We still have spaces to fill, jobs to create and no matter your viewpoint, the GTA is inevitably coming to Hamilton to live, work & play.
It was bold, it was ambitious, and it was something quite unique. For two days in late May/early June, the Hamilton Consulate was Hamilton’s time to shine in Toronto. For the past several years, staff from the City's Economic Development Office have been seeking investment in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in Hamilton's economy, and to date, this has been quite successful. New industrial investments like Canada Bread, Maple Leaf Foods and Navistar have added industrial space and hundreds of jobs to the local economy.
investors to help generate a better understanding of the Hamilton economy on deeper level. The consulate consisted of events such as; A real estate panel discussions, an investment "speed dating" event where GTA investors could meet Hamilton boosters, presentations on Hamilton's growing film and tech scenes, a fashion show, and ended with the 2017 Supercrawl lineup announcement. Over the course of the two days, attendees were treated to a number of great dishes by some of Hamilton's top culinary talent. In the lead up to the Consulate and during the event itself, there were over 40 media hits, generating over 23,000,000 impressions and an ad equivalency of at least $250,000. There were articles about Hamilton's revived economy in the Globe and Mail and the Toronto Star, an interview on CBC's Metro Morning, a mention on BNN and a score of conversations about a new Hamilton on social media. In short, it was a big success from a media and free marketing perspective. The most important point to note, is that the Consulate opened up many new avenues of investment leads. Over the course of the two days, there were many conversations and detailed questions from GTA investors, cards exchanged, calls set up, meetings and more tours. Of course an investment takes time to put together, but the
Consulate was instrumental in getting the ball rolling for many future investment plans. Panelists helped in providing third party testimonials about the benefits of living in Hamilton and did an excellent job of stressing that Hamilton is NOT Toronto, does not want to be Toronto and expects any investors to understand our unique character before they start a project here. Along with these panelists, our ongoing investment partners were right there with us- partners like the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, McMaster University, the Port of Hamilton and the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. During the Consulate, some Hamiltonians looked upon these efforts as "gentrifying" Hamilton, and certainly staff is considerate of that perspective. The efforts in Toronto were not about getting people to move to the city (rising house prices hinder, not help our economic growth), but rather about new businesses and jobs. It was about a concept that would create wide spread investment interest in the hopes of filling our industrial parks and downtown office/commercial spaces. And most importantly, it was about a concept that aimed to move the economy forward, because that is what is expected of this office, from Council and taxpayers.
Will we stop marketing to the GTA? In a word, no. We still have spaces to fill, jobs to create and no matter your viewpoint, the GTA is inevitably coming to Hamilton to live, work and play. It is imperative to be prepared for new investments, ensure that there is an "open for business" attitude, and a commitment to making potential investments a reality. At the same time, these new investments will also complement what our local entrepreneurs are already doing. As GTA Investment grows in Hamilton, Hamilton itself will grow. As so many people have said recently, this continues to be a great city, and our future is looking very good. Hamilton is home.
By Glen Norton
Glen Norton is the Director of the Economic Development Division at the City Of Hamilton. Previously, he was the Manager of the Urban Renewal Section within Economic Development. His Division is accountable for economic growth in the city, the creation of new living wage jobs, and the growth in the non-residential tax base.
Downtown, the story is even more positive as GTA developers (along side so many Hamilton developers) are investing in adaptive reuse residential and commercial projects that have brought new retail and new residents to the downtown area, while preserving important buildings. Although these investments are happening more frequently it is still a challenge to bring investors to the city. Finding an agreeable time and date to set up an investment tour can be quite a challenge. So, instead of labouring to find that perfect calendar moment to bring GTA investors to Hamilton, the Hamilton Economic Development Office brought Hamilton to the GTA in the form of the Hamilton Consulate. The Hamilton Consulate was an intensive two day event held on May 31st to June 1st. This event targeted GTA
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Photos provided by HAMILTON CONSULATE
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E xperience s
Let Them Eat Cake and Earn a Living Wage Cake and Loaf building a solid reputation as an employer and a purveyor of Hamilton’s best treats
“Because we set such a high standard, we’re not the type of place where you show up, do the job and walk away at the end of the day. We’re the type of place where we expect you to care about what you’re doing,”
Photos by OLGA KWAK
It doesn’t matter if you believe in the benefit of a living wage or if you think that it’s the death knell for small businesses. Hamilton’s Cake and Loaf Bakery proves that you can have your cake and provide a decent living wage for all of your employees, too. Fans of the business know it well. From decadent unicorn bars, super-tall graband-go cakes perfect for any party, to savoury breads, pretzels, and quiches that make your mouth water – the Kirkendell neighbourhood bakery rolls out some of the best treats in the city. Now at twenty-six employees and with a second location in the Hamilton Farmer’s Market, owners Josie Rudderham and Nickey Miller, who met while attending Niagara College in 2003, have built a business that supports local suppliers and their community while maintaining what they call a “moral imperative” to provide their employees with a living wage. Historically, bakeries and cafes have been known as low-wage employees. Cake and Loaf challenges that assumption. You may wonder, what exactly is a living wage, anyway? Isn’t minimum wage enough? Not if you take into consideration that living a sustainable life requires more than just a pay cheque. The Ontario living wage is based on several factors: the actual expenses of a family of two working parents raising two children in a specific geographic area. These basic expenses include food, shelter, clothing, and
transportation. According to ontariolivingwage.ca there are eighteen different regions, all with different living wages. They’re updated periodically to account for inflation and economic changes. Hamilton’s current living wage is set at $15.85 per hour and it’s been that way since November 2016. In comparison, Toronto’s living wage is $18.52 per hour and hasn’t changed since April 2015. Not surprisingly, it’s the highest in the province. Minimum wage currently sits at $11.40 per hour. In October it will go up to $11.60 then $14 in January and ultimately $15 per hour by January 2019. Many small businesses are protesting the wage hike as too high and that profit margins will vanish. Yet by setting their own standard, based on what they believe is a fair and equitable practice, Cake and Loaf has defied that logic and built a solid reputation as an employer as well as a purveyor of Hamilton’s best treats. “Because we set such a high standard, we’re not the type of place where you show up, do the job and walk away at the end of the day. We’re the type of place where we expect you to care about what you’re doing,” Josie explains. Allowing their employees to shape the products of Cake and Loaf also made it easier for them to justify paying them a living wage. “I think what happened was we started hiring people and we realized how amazingly
talented they are. We wanted to allow them to express that.” That’s lead to a confections department, a bread and savoury department, lunch menus, custom-made cakes, and more. And their success has largely been thanks to social media. Any given day you’ll find several Instagram photos popping up from either the Dundurn bakery or the Market. Most are posted by co-owner Nicky. “We thought if we [create] a story about things we genuinely care about, then people will [share it].” The proof was in the Farmer’s Market expansion – they would hear from customers within hours of posting something that they’d seen it on social media and were coming down to sample it themselves. And the recognition doesn’t stop there. Josie and Nickey were named Citizens of the Year in 2016 by the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, and that same year they also won first place in The Globe and Mail’s Small Business Challenge Contest, beating out 3,400 other small businesses in the entire country for the $100,000 prize money. They are careful about what they want to do with the money, though. “Our biggest challenge right now as a five-year-old business is transitioning [from] ‘Hey, do you want to start a business?’ to ‘Oh, shit! We’re a real company!’” Josie explains. “We want to make sure we’re doing all the things correctly.” That includes
making sure everyone is earning a decent living wage. “Nicky and I don’t get a raise until everyone else does.” Other ideas on the horizon include investing in better equipment and ensuring that Cake and Loaf doesn’t become the type of employer they fled themselves. “It’s not about working sixty hours a week. We don’t impose that on our employees and we don’t impose that on ourselves. Cake and Loaf is just one part of our lives.” Josie notes that often she’s heard employees say they need to take a day off work to watch the kids because their husbands have higher paying jobs. “I hope that’s something that we’re helping [end] by creating well-paying jobs.”
By OLGA KWAK
OLGA KWAK is a Hamilton-based writer and marketer. Her work has appeared in She Does the City, Torontoist, Toronto Star, The Genteel, and PRODUCT Magazine. She builds websites and writes from her office on Barton Street East. Visit www.olgakwak.com for more advice on doing the right thing online.
@ olgakwak
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IT’S TRUE. MILLENNIALS ARE LAZY. BECAUSE WE WORK SMARTER NOT HARDER.
The Millennial Generation is now the largest cohort in the Canadian workforce. Over 75% of our team belongs to this emerging group of professionals. We have often been called the generation of hackers, tinkerers and short-cut takers. However, we prefer to look at it as choosing to work smarter, not harder.
INTRODUCING HALF-DAY FRIDAYS The Forge & Foster team is now taking off from work early on Fridays to enjoy more of our beautiful city. This doesn’t mean we have a sense of entitlement or have poor work ethic. We make a point of being efficient with our time to create a meaningful impact in everything that we do throughout the week, which allows us to achieve a better worklife balance. DO YOU WORK SMART? LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: FORGEANDFOSTER.CA/CAREERS
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May You Always See The Light This is Nathan Eugene Carson’s wish for his viewers and the sentiment behind his upcoming exhibition at Oswald Gallery. Opening Friday, August 11, Carson’s first exhibition in Hamilton challenges the heart as much as the eye as he presents a body of work years in the making on walls painted black instead of white. Bombastic colour palettes and loosely rendered forms delineate Carson’s style. His drawn and painted works on paper are populated with richly pigmented figures and animals, often presented in fields of black. Inspired by the city growing and transforming around him, Carson translates personal observation into visual sensation. A graduate of the Ontario College of Art and Design, but veteran Hamiltonian, Carson speaks to his experience of the changing face of the city he calls home as he considers the faces and experiences of those around him. A city engrossed in rapid expansion offers much in the way of inspiration. One only has to take the time to look. This is what Carson does for the viewer. And then he paints what he sees as well as what he feels. “Hamilton, for me, is a city full of new beginnings and clean, fresh starts.” Carson speaks fondly of his return to Hamilton after spending years abroad. He is one of the many artists to recently relocate or reconsider this Toronto neighbour as a cultural hub in the making. May You Always See the Light encourages the viewer to scratch away at the surface, to see more than the immediate, to appreciate the layers of personal history that constitute a place and a person’s experience of it. If a city could wear a mask Carson’s work would seek to reveal what’s beneath. His concepts surround perception and truth; his process involves dipping into his own core to painstakingly churn out a body of work that suggests honesty before all else. Encompassing passion and peace, confusion and clarity, Carson’s newest body of work finds a balance through these lived experiences. Sometimes life escapes us. As we concentrate on urban existence, focus on our portable screens, and alienate ourselves from the natural world, Carson urges that we also recognize and respect our roots, the ancestors and animals, the land and the sky.
Artwork by Nathan Eugene Carson
Photo by Nathan Eugene Carson
Nathan Eugene Carson’s May You Always See the Light runs from August 11th - September 3rd, at Oswald Gallery 328 James Street North. The opening reception (7-9 p.m. on August 11), will be a shared sensory experience of visual art, a live musical performance by Loop Electro artist Seamus Hamilton, and sumptuous snacks provided by Mezcal TNT. Plus, carefully crafted garments and zines exclusive to the event will fill the merchandise table making elements of the work accessible to any budget. All are welcome to attend, meet the artist, experience a sensational journey, and be inspired to seek the essence of our own beginnings as insight into our futures.
Downtown Dundas
Business Improvement Area
By Katie Bond Pretti
downtowndundas.ca
Katie Bond Pretti is a Toronto based visual artist and writer exploring abstract narration in drawing, painting, and literary fiction. www.katiebondpretti.com
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# u R B A N I C I T Y E AT S
the fizz Sodas + Sandwiches Just homemade, honest-to-goodness food. Orange Vanilla, their syrups are all made by the fizz team using fruit, herbs, sugar and water. No aspartame or hardto-read ingredients found here! Trevor and Amanda plan to use local producers and Ontario ingredients when possible, utilizing what’s fresh and in-season in their recipes. The fizz is also primarily sourcing their meat products from the new local supplier, Honest Meat Co., where the meat provided is raised ethically, on pasture.
Photo by heather peter
Trevor Hunt has been in the culinary industry for over 20 years. Starting out in kitchens across Hamilton, and working for industry leaders like Carmen’s Group, Trevor has assisted with opening several restaurants. He’s familiar with the ins and outs of the biz, and knows how much hard work and dedication is required to go into the opening of a restaurant. His passion for the restaurant industry is what led him to open up the latest joint on the scene in Hamilton, the fizz Sodas and Sandwiches. The inspiration came to him a few Christmases ago, when Trevor received a sodastream as a Holiday gift. The new gizmo motivated him to try out a variety of homemade soda recipes that ended up being so delicious, he felt he could base a business entirely around them. But of course, you can’t keep a business afloat on sodas alone, which is where their large smoked sandwiches and hearty sides come in. A few years down the road from receiving that inspiring Christmas gift, Trevor and his wife Amanda, have now opened up shop in their hometown of Hamilton. The pair knew they were looking for a space in an urban setting with lots of walking traffic. That search for the perfect spot led them to a location in the Hamilton International Village right on the main stretch of King Street.
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It’s a simple restaurant, with a bar where you can order take-out or food to eat-in and see your food (and sodas!) being prepared right in front of your eyes. That’s how Trevor aims to run every aspect of the fizz restaurant; simplicity, perfected. Just homemade, honest-to-goodness food. Trevor has always had a love of BBQ, and now that he has opened this little eatery, he’s able to experiment more with the food he loves. Hamilton-themed sandwiches – like The Steelmaker, The Hammer, or The Tailgate Special sandwich – feature smoked meats (electric smoked with 100% Hickory Wood in-house), loaded with toppings with a Southwest flair, grace their menu. Trevor recognizes the need to prepare food that everyone will enjoy, so he also offers a few vegetarian and gluten-free options. Vegetarian options include their spin on a Grilled Cheese with Tomato and Onion, or a Smoked Vegetable Sandwich with Goat Cheese. For those who are carb-conscious, any of the meats and toppings are available on a salad base for a healthy spin on the dishes! Keeping those sandwiches company are made-in-house sides that will remind you of the picnics of your childhood, like: Creamy Potato & Bacon Salad, Chipotle Cole Slaw and Mixed Bean Salad. Sticking to the Southwest theme, they also offer Sweet Tea and
Lemonade – though they completely understand if you want to go with one of their crowd-pleasing Sodas. After all, how can you go into a soda shop and leave without a soda, especially when the flavours are this good? At the moment, their handmade sodas are primarily fruit-based. Nothing they use in the restaurant is processed, since it’s all made in-house with no artificial ingredients. Eventually, the fizz will be experimenting with Root Beer and Colas, but Trevor is a strong believer that it’s all about slow-growth and perfecting what they currently offer. Serving up Soda flavours like Strawberry Basil, Blueberry Mint, Ginger Ale or
Though they have been open less than three months, Trevor and Amanda say the reception in Hamilton for the fizz has been wonderful so far. Hungry Hamiltonians have come in to investigate (you can’t miss their bright blue building!) and left happy, with full bellies. As a restauranteur following your passion, what more could you ask for? Currently, they’re offering food only out of the restaurant – but hope to expand into catering larger orders and selling their goods at local events.
By HEATHER PETER
Heather Peter is a restaurant marketer, food industry graphic designer, writer, blogger & avid home-cook. When not out supporting the local food scene, Heather immerses herself into the culinary community. Beyond food, Heather loves tea, animals, & exploring Hamilton’s green spaces. @ hamontsmallfry
the fizz
SODAS+SANDWICHES 217 King St E, Hamilton 905-522-SODA(7632) thefizzsandwich@gmail.com
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Steeltown Garage Co. Kick-ass espresso and motorcycle lifestyle in Hamilton
T
heir backgrounds are varied and strange. Not one particular thing led them to this point, it gets hard to connect the dots but somehow Jeff Campagna and Tania LaCaria have turned what was once just 8 Barton Street into Steeltown Garage Co. A business that can be defined as a mixture of motorcycle gear, meets espresso bar, meets hang out spot. Where you can enjoy one or the other or both. After travelling for the past eight to nine years, and settling down in different countries and cultures, Hamilton was the spot for Jeff and Tania to come back and settle their roots. With them they brought along their inspiration and ideas to start their own business. Barton Street, known for its rough and tug ways was now going to be home for their new adventure. “We thought Hamilton, especially Barton Street could use something with a little bit of edge, but not too much edge that it wasn’t accessible for everyone”, explains Jeff. Jeff and Tania both see Steeltown and its concept as an ethos for what Barton Street is becoming. An industrialized city that is spawning a new culture. A new culture, not to replace the old, but for both of them to co-exist in a cool way. Integrating into the community is a long process and not something that can be done easily or accomplished quickly. Nonetheless, Jeff and Tania are positive that this is where they belong. “There’s a lot of friendly people that walk by here every day, whether they are going to and from local business here, or they are coming from the mission in the morning. They are all extremely friendly and positive people. Yeah some of them are down and out, and the city can really grind people down, but it’s amazing to get to know the street and area. I think we are interrogating well,” says Jeff. The backlash from the community on some businesses down Barton, seems to be an unfair action towards the citys new comers. Tania is a strong believer that having an open communication
It doesn’t really matter in the vintage biker community what you ride, it’s that you ride. Photos by Emily Kertcher
with the community could help dispel that. “Hamilton is welcoming to everyone, and we want to be welcoming to everyone. If you’re going to be upset with a business because they have offended you, you should start a conversation and talk about it. It’s not fair to condemn somebody who could be living their dream or trying something new. Hamilton should be creating businesses that are accessible and open and welcoming to everyone. If we start to feel that there is backlash, then we are ready to listen and we want to listen. We want everyone to feel welcome at Steeltown,” explains Tania. Inclusiveness being the backbone of the business, which ties into the vintage motorcycling scene and what it means for Jeff. “In the 50’s and 60’s and 70’s, motorcycling wasn’t just for old guys, or gangsters, it was for everyone. Man, woman, child. It didn’t matter, motorcycling was a very inclusive thing,” says Jeff. “That changed over the past 30 years, it became a very specialized thing. We want to go back to that culture” At Steeltown, any kind of biker or rider is welcomed. Anyone who is not a biker or rider is also welcomed, and not only is that Jeff and Tania’s objective but also exactly how they treat everyone that comes by the business.
“It doesn’t really matter in the vintage biker community what you ride, it’s that you ride. No matter which motorcycle community you’re looking at, it is a very tight knit group. It’s really cool to be a part of a community like that. I think it can extend beyond that and apply to the whole of Hamilton,” says Tania. Looking towards the future, the Steeltown duo hope that the motorcycle community can pivot around their business and be a place for camaraderie and positivity in Hamilton. For Barton Street, they hope that it only benefits the community, allowing business to develop without displacing the people who call Barton Street home. “I think the future of steel town is like the past of steel town. It’s completely unknown. And that’s okay,” explains
Tania. “We’ve always lived our lives spontaneously through our travels. Steeltown Garage Co. started out as a different kind of project and over time evolved to what it is now. I’m excited to imagine what it could evolve into in the future.”
By Emily Kertcher
Emily Kertcher is a photographer and journalist. With a passion for Hamilton she seeks to visually capture the city and write about its experiences. emilykertcher.com
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AUGUST 2017
ART GALLERY OF HAMILTON WHAT’S ON IN AUGUST
Photophobia is an annual festival of local and internationally produced short-format contemporary media, film, video and moving image presented by the Art Gallery of Hamilton and Hamilton Artists Inc. All three screenings are FREE. Thursday, August 10 | 9 pm to 11 pm Our first screening of juried selections under the stars at the Art Gallery of Hamilton Irving Zucker Sculpture Garden. Friday, August 11 | 7 pm to 11 pm A selection from Photophobia’s 10-year history as part of art crawl at the AGH Annex, 118 James Street North. Saturday, August 12 | 9 pm to 11 pm Our second screening of juried selections in the courtyard at the Hamilton Artist’s Inc., 155 James Street North.
ON VIEW NOW AT THE AGH
JOSEPH HARTMAN: THE ARTIST’S STUDIO UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2017
Joseph Hartman (Canadian b. 1978) Pierre Dorion 2015 digital chromogenic print Courtesy of the artist and Stephen Bulger Gallery © Joseph Hartman
ALSO ON VIEW: CARVING HOME: THE CHEDOKE COLLECTION OF INUIT ART | BEHIND THE SCENE: THE 19TH-CENTURY STUDIO REIMAGINED | KENOJUAK ASHEVAK & TIM PITSIULAK: DRAWING LIFE | BARRY POTTLE: THE AWARENESS SERIES | THE LIVING ROOM: SELF MADE: STYLO STARR’S 89 DAMES | NATURE AND MAN REVEALED: THE MR. AND MRS. H.J.M. WATSON COLLECTION OF BRITISH DRAWINGS | COLLECTION CLASSICS | EVOLUTION OF FORM: 150 YEARS OF SCULPTURE FROM THE COLLECTION | STAGING ABSTRACTION: PAINTINGS FROM THE COLLECTION | KIM ADAMS: BRUEGEL-BOSCH BUS WORKSHOPS AT THE AGH ANNEX 118 James Street North BOOKBINDING WITH CAROLYN EADY OF SPROUTS PRESS Saturday, August 12 | 12 pm to 3 pm
Join us for an afternoon of paper fun! Learn the basics of bookbinding and the tools of the trade. Participants will learn three different binding techniques to handcraft their own softcover notebooks. This is a hands-on class and everyone will leave with finished projects! Pre-registration required. All materials supplied. AGH Members $65 | Non-Members $75
AGH SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL | August Civic Holiday Weekend
Visit www.artgalleryofhamilton.com for fun family programming information. Don’t miss the performance by The Wild Blueberry Band on Monday, August 7 at 3:30 pm!
123 King Street West, downtown Hamilton L8P 4S8 905.527.6610 www.artgalleryofhamilton.com Follow us on Twitter @TheAGH
Like us on Facebook facebook.com/ArtGalleryofHamilton
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issues
The House Purger Offering compassion, honesty and integrity during an overwhelming time We watch them for entertainment and can’t seem to look away - but what is the reality of life for the actual hoarder and their family?
“it’s not a need to collect things, it’s a fear of letting go.”
Lynda Hykin started her company, The House Purger, in April 2016 to help other families manage the home of a family member that had been hoarding. It involves more than just cleaning and emptying a house or apartment of all its contents - Lynda explains that she spends her time meeting the family, understanding what items are of importance, and discusses why she doesn’t simply go in and “bulldoze” her way through. Often people find themselves in situations when a loved one has become sick and moved to long term care or even passed away, and the family must take care of all the items left behind. The easiest (and quickest) solution is to call a junk removal company to clear the home, but in the process the family risks losing valuable items. In contrast, Lynda enters a home and carefully sorts through all the property, discarding the junk but uncovering treasured items. “Hoarders have a false sense of thinking everything is valuable,” says Lynda, “it’s not a need to collect things, it’s a fear of letting go.” Her job is to separate what is actually of value from what can be discarded. She’s often found cash, gift cards, as well as heirlooms, in which case she is able to call in an appraiser to determine their worth. The House Purger began after the experience Lynda had following her mother’s heart attack. After her mother’s move to a senior home, Lynda was tasked with cleaning the house that was vacated. In it she found over 60 year’s worth of saved, collected, and “just in case” items that had piled up over the years to create more than a few messes. Three months later, Lynda knew she didn’t want anyone to go through a similar experience and started her company to help others with this overwhelming project. Along with her team, Lynda works on one house at a time, with a focus on hoarders’ homes and estate homes that need purging. An important part of Lynda’s work is being an advocate for the hoarder. She tries to help the family understand why their loved one has lived in that state for so long. Sometimes, it is the scenario we see on TV, in which the hoarder has let both items of value, as well as trash, turn into a staggering
Photo by Lynda Hykin
mess. There are also methodical hoarders, who are devout organizers with bins, cabinets, and piles stacked taller than they are. Sometimes it is a learned behaviour (often from an older family member), while in other cases it could be related to a mental illness, such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Lynda also aims to raise awareness for those with hoarding tendencies. She has noticed in working with seniors it is often generational and began during The Great Depression. People who lived through this time spent years holding onto possessions and saving as much as possible. While essential then, it is no longer necessary and often a difficult habit to break. When working with a family, Lynda finds it helpful to provide next steps to coming to an understanding by sharing a copy of her book, In My Mother’s Footsteps, which elaborates more on the emotional toll of clearing out her own mother’s home, and allows families an inside look from start to finish. Lynda explains, “There’s nothing wrong in the hoarder’s world,” which is why understanding is so important.
The House Purger operates under the values of compassion, honesty, and integrity. Following working in a home, Lynda takes items the family no longer wants but are still in working condition and donates them to women in transition in local shelters. In times of high stress handling a hoarder’s home, the services that The House Purger offers are a respectful means of closure for the home, and the hoarder themselves. For more information please visit thehousepurger.com
By stefani soliman
Stefani Soliman is a social media marketer and freelance editor. She's an avid supporter of local businesses, Canadian-made goods and fashion. Along with her love of dogs, punctuation, and the ‘90s, Stefani is a keen recycler and instrument collector. Tell her a corny joke and you’ll be friends for life. @stefsoliman
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i d ea s
What's the Brouhaha?! A guide to local events and live experiences in Hamilton
Brüha here again with a list of the top ten events for you to enjoy this August. Festivals upon festivals and more than enough events for you to check out with family and friends.
THIS MONTH Festival of Friends Date: August 4th-6th Location: Gage Park admission: Free Kick off the August long weekend with this major annual event. This year marks the special return of the Festival of Friends to Gage Park. With many music performances and special vendors, be sure to check it out with your family and friends. Rain or shine, you won’t want to miss this jam packed weekend.
Generation Z Hamilton Networking Event
Photo provided by HEART OF ONTARIO
Date: August 8 Location: CoMotion on King admission: Free - Registration through Bruha.com th
Calling all young, aspiring, entrepreneurs and small business owners. This event is made especially for you. This night will be dedicated to building connections, learning from experts and listening to amazing success stories from the keynote speakers. Generation Z Hamilton’s Networking Event is here to help you succeed in your future business endeavors. This open forum meeting is a great way for youth to ask questions and find more resources that are available to them. Food and beverages will be provided.
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Hamilton Rib & Craft Beer Fest Date: August 11 - 13 Location: Gage Park Admission: Free th
Come one, come all, for the best Ribs & BBQ in Canada. A whole weekend filled with food, fun and entertainment. Attractions for kids and also for adults. Located in Hamilton’s largest city centre park, be sure to get your fill and more of all the ribs and BBQ you can eat.
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City Limits Date: August 12th Location: Hamilton’s City Limits admission: $120.00 *Tickets available through bruha.com Join ChezDine hosts Stephanie and Kyle at their country property located in Hamilton’s City Limits. Nestled over 11 acres in mother nature, their home provides nourishment for mind, body and soul. Surrounded by local farms, their love for food, hospitality and country living has inspired the host couple to create ChezDine’s first “Farm to Barn” dinner. Along with Chef Dan Burcher, Stephanie and Kyle invite you to this feast fit for a king. After dinner enjoy a campfire along with live acoustic music, complete with gourmet smores and snacks. With a limit of 50 spots, be sure to head over to Brüha to save you a seat at the table.
Piece by Piece:
Stitching Together Canadian Stories (The Quilt of Belonging Exhibit) *Canada 150 signature event* Date: Now - August 16th Location: The Cotton Factory admission: Some ticketed components, free-$134 *Tickets available through bruha.com The Cotton Factory is host to the Quilt of Belonging. A 120-foot textile art project made up of 263 blocks, each created to celebrate a different part of Canada. This quilt is made to celebrate humanity, diversity, and compassion within Canada. During this exhibit, daily programming will be included. A range of activities will include different cultural groups within the region of Hamilton, Halton and Brant to help celebrate this nation. Weekly demonstrations, workshops, performances, and concerts are all part the events happening. Don’t forget to check out the concert series, including Iskwe (Aug 5th) and Diamond DJ Collective (Aug 11th).
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What's the Brouhaha?! A guide to local events and live experiences in Hamilton
THIS MONTH
Bar Fight at Uno Mas Date: August 17th Location: Uno Mas Admission: $25 *Tickets available at bruha.com STRIKE FIRST, STRIKE HARD, NO MERCY! Bar Fight at Uno Mas is a monthly event that puts two of top chefs in Hamilton together in a head to head competition. The chefs will dual until the end to create the best cocktail experience. We know they can cook, but what about their bar skills? In the August edition, defending champ Chef Scott Bailey "one taste and you're hooked" (City Farm Catering) will take on a new challenger. In a 3 round ‘barburner’, each chef receives one bottle of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey, one secret ingredient, and will be tasked with creating a themed cocktail. Chef Manny Ferreira (Mezcal TNT, Uno Mas), will MC the night and 3 local culinary experts will sit on the judging panel. The audience will sample the final round and help decide the winner.
Dundas Cactus Festival 2017 Date: August 18th – 20th Location: Dundas, Ontario Admission: Free Back again for its 42nd year, the Cactus Festival is here for a 3 day weekend. An attraction that brings in visitors from across the nation, this festival is the unofficial ‘homecoming’ for all. Constantly growing, it includes 4 entertainment stages, event zones, over 100 street vendors and so much more. Enjoy the annual staple event with family and friends.
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Photos by Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
Community Charity Airshow Date: August 30th Location: Brantford Municipal Airport Admission: Free, donations are greatly appreciated
Photo provided by POP UP HAMILTON
Pop Up Hamilton’s: Luau Date: August 19th Location: Top Secret Location (released 48 hours before event) admission: $125 *Tickets available at bruha.com Pop Up Hamilton is back to transform a local space into an unforgettable dining experience. This month, a multicourse dining experience to celebrate the cuisine and culture of beautiful Hawaii. This meal will be prepared by the phenomenal Salar Madadi (Pokeh, Meat Ventures’ Meat Wagon) which will be paired with Erie North Shore’s Oxley Estate Winery. Don’t miss out on this summer infused popup experience.
Photo provided by CRAFTADIAN
Craftadian Presents: Made in Hamilton Date: August 26th Location: McMaster Innovation Park admission: Starting at $2.25 *Tickets available at bruha.com Located in the Atrium and Courtyard at Innovation Park, the 2nd annual Craftadian Made in Hamilton will make its appearance. A market to celebrate handmade works that are all local. You won’t want to miss this unique opportunity that will feature over 70 plus local makers. Complete with food trucks and entertainment, shopping was never so much fun.
Join Hamilton’s Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum and The Rotary Club of Brantford for their Community Charity Airshow. As a fundraiser for both organizations, this is your chance to witness a breathtaking aerial display by the 431 Air Demonstration Squadron Snowbirds flying their Canadair Tutors. Also flying in the air, a Snowbird will be spotted along with the RCAF CF-18 Demo Team who will be adorning special Canada 150 markings. Be sure to catch the popular CWHM Lancaster bomber making its solo airshow performance. Don’t miss this amazing event to help support the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum and The Rotary Club of Brantford.
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AUGUST 2017
Game s
STEVEDOKU *A n s w e r s o n P a g e 1 6
Puzzle 1 (Medium, difficulty rating 0.49)
Puzzle 1 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.26)
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Generated by http://www.opensky.ca/sudoku on Fri Jul 28 17:57:22 2017 GMT. Enjoy!
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Generated by http://www.opensky.ca/sudoku on Fri Jul 28 17:57:09 2017 GMT. Enjoy!
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Generated by http://www.opensky.ca/sudoku on Fri Jul 28 17:57:27 2017 GMT. Enjoy!
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