{discover} WINTER 2017
winter wonder It is Just down the Road & around the bend in Beautiful Southwestern Ontario.
top-notch Attractions, Art, entertainment, FOOD, DRINK, history & Outdoor Adventures. All Closer to home THAN YOU THINK!
Live it for a day... Live it for a lifetime!
Your FREE Guide to Brant, Haldimand, Norfolk, Brantford, NEW CREDIT, six nations of the grand river + change makers Galore / Delicious dishes & Dining Farm to table / pamper yourself / Shop til you drop / Undisputed legends & a mag Chock-a-block full of local lovelies!
The perfecT pairing of STyle, relaxaTion, local flavour & aTTainabiliTy
Whether you’ve come for a day of relaxation at our spa, to dine at our beautiful lake front restaurant that specializes in local cuisine or to golf on our expansive greens you’ll know you’ve come home! We’ve created an inviting playground for the young at heart and you are all welcome to join in.
davidsportdover.com // golfatdovercoast.ca // elementsdayspa.ca 2 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
What’s inside
COVER PHOTO COURTESY CANADA Tourism, CONTENTS PHOTO BY Nancy Domsic Kings - olliandella.com
Live Small Town / WINTER 2017
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Small Town Change Makers Meet some of the people, places and businesses making a difference in your community and learn how you can help.
Shop Local From marketplaces to historic downtowns, supporting local community shops has had a bountiful resurgence and there is no shortage of options.
Small Town Sunday Jay Perry’s Ultimate Insider’s Guide that highlights what to eat, buy, explore and indulge in around Brantford ON.
All a Glow An up close and humorous look at the history of the Simcoe Christmas Panorama of Lights along side our advise of winter hibernation!
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 3
What’s inside
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Team Magic Every dream begins with a plan, and our current magazine would like to introduce you to the team of talented folks who helped to make Live Small Town possible.
Deep Roots We help bring local history back to life, and tell you where to look for heritage, knowledge and wonderment in your community. Let’s get out and explore!
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Small Town. Big Dreams! Six of our neighbours who dreamt of a small town life and decided to gear down, jump off the crazy train and make a new life worth boasting about!
Arts & Culture From world-class artists and live theatre to intimate concerts, get introduced to local talent and discover the best places to soak up and enjoy the culture.
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Food for Thought Whether you’ve got a sweet tooth, a rich palette, or simply enjoy a night out on the town or quiet afternoon to relax, we’ve got the place for you.
Nature Calls When the weather is nice and your agenda is open, there’s nothing like exploring the great outdoors and we want to get you pointed in the right direction.
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY Nancy Domsic Kings - olliandella.com
Live Small Town / WINTER 2017
ADVERTISI NG F EATU R E
Eat, drink & be innovative!
We hear plenty of agriculture buzz terms: large and small-scale farming; precision technologies; environmental sustainability; global food systems; local farm markets; food safety and traceability; rural place-making and agri-tourism. How do all these pieces fit together in the industry? What jobs are available? Study Agri-Business Management at Fanshawe College and learn the ins and outs of agricultural production and food innovation in the 21st century. Fanshawe College recently introduced a new graduate certificate program in ‘Agri-Business Management’ to respond to the needs of farmers, food processors, and agri-tourism businesses in southwestern Ontario. The program has been designed for students who have already completed a college diploma or university degree, or who have significant experience in the agriculture and food sector. Through the program, students will acquire in-depth knowledge, develop a network of contacts, and be prepared for a management position with an existing business. Some students may even be motivated to startup a new company! Check out the line-up of courses: Agricultural Marketing, Food Safety and Traceability, Sales and Relationship Management, Employee Relations, Canadian Occupational Health and Safety, Managerial Accounting, Precision Technologies, Leadership and Management Fundamentals, Agricultural Finance, Pest Control Management, Issues in the Agri-Food Industry, and New Media Marketing. Beyond the classroom, students interact with guest speakers, visit farms, and enjoy experiential learning opportunities through work placements with local employers. A few students may have the chance as well for a summer job in the Fanshawe ‘Taste Test Booth’ at local farm markets, where we introduce new and innovative food products to customers. Fanshawe offers the ‘Agri-Business Management’ graduate certificate in London as well as through the Simcoe/ Norfolk Regional Campus. Prospective students who enjoy the look and feel of a rural community may wish to look
closely at Norfolk County. Few regions can offer such an inspiring backdrop for an education in agriculture. The diversity of crops grown in the Norfolk County is truly spectacular. Drive down the highways and backroads and one will discover an abundance of sweet corn, apples, cucumbers, tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and lavender. Norfolk is the top producer of strawberries, squash, zucchini, cabbage, and rye in Ontario, and the leading grower of pumpkins, ginseng, peppers, asparagus, and tart cherries in Canada. Greenhouses contain lettuce and other greens, flowers, fruits, vegetables, and medicinal marijuana. Tobacco continues to be a lucrative crop for many farmers. Chickens, pigs, cattle and goats are raised locally. Sprinkle in a growing collection of excellent wineries and craft breweries, and the scene is set almost perfectly... the only way to make the image better is to jump in and get involved! Students interested in taking ‘Agri-Business Management’ at Fanshawe should contact the program coordinator, Andrew Gunn, at agunn@fanshawec.ca. Employers in the industry interested in having students on work placements can get in touch as well.
634 Ireland Road, Simcoe, ON 519-426-8260 fanshawec.ca/simcoe Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 5
You’re more than a policyholder. WINTER 2017 VOL. 1 NO. 4 Art Director Kate Sharrow ILLUSTRATOR Louise Jessup PhotographERS
Nancy Domsic Kings, Marc Douglas, Nancy Howden-Cowell, Kerstein Mallon, Jay Perry, Jono and Laynie, Rab Ritchie, Mark Staplehurst of Jane and Jury, Jessica Stirling, Erika Strada, David Jordan Williams, Nicole VanQuaethem Writers
Rita Attanasi, Graeme Bachiu, Jennifer Budd, Nancy Howden-Cowell, Sarah Gurney, Kit Julian, Rob Lamothe, Kerri Kelly-Parkinson, Kerstein Mallon, Gregg McLachlan, Spencer Noseworthy, Emmalee Nother, Jay Perry, Kari Raymer Bishop, Kate Sharrow, Laurie Spieker, Jessica Stirling, Erika Strada, Nicole VanQuaethem, Jennifer Villamere, Melanie Walsh, Tim Zwart
SOCIAL MEDIA
Georgia Atkinson, Helen Bingleman, Nancy Howden-Cowell, Donna Ferrawey, Patricia Howden, Kerstein Mallon, Kerri Kelly-Parkinson, Kate Sharrow, Erica Strada Small town Gal/Owner/ ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Kerri Kelly-Parkinson kerri@livesmalltownmag.ca Small town Gal/Owner/ PUBLISHER Kate Sharrow kate@livesmalltownmag.ca
1400 Northumberland Street, Ayr 519-632-7413 or 1-800-265-8792
ayrmutual.com
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#ayrmutual
Live Small Town Magazine is printed four times a year and distributed throughout Southern Ontario within various tourist associations, related services, retail locations and home distribution. Copyright 2017 Live Small Town Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Opinions and comments reflect those of the writers and are not necessarily those of the editorial and staff. At the time of publication, we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible. Please feel free to contact us with any concerns or corrections you may have.
NOW SELLING PINEVESTHOMES.COM
Be soft. Do not let the world make you hard. Do not let the pain make you hate. Do not let the bitterness steal your sweetness. Take pride that even though the rest of the world may disagree, you still believe it to be a beautiful place.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 7
Team Magic
Authentic people, engaging stories and a sense of community fellowship are what make small towns what they are, so it should come as no surprise that these are the pillars upon which the Live Small Town concept are built. We’ve started our own “town” within these very pages, and we’d love to introduce ourselves and invite you inside! 8 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
KERRI KELLY-PARKINSON
livesmalltownmag.ca Reflecting on the past year, WOW, what a ride! I am so grateful for the opportunity to do what I love and to be surrounded by wonderful people. This journey is not only for myself but for my amazing family, friends and readers. Thanks to Kate my rock star business partner. Thanks to my amazing parents, hubby and kids for working hard, believing, and of course my solid BFF’s! It taken a village to create this magazine. My biggest thanks goes to all of you out there who are loving our mag. Until our Spring issue, live, laugh, love and have a happy and safe holiday season!
J.C. VILLAMERE
villamere.com Besides shining a light on folks doing pretty amazing, change the world stuff in this mag, I also write for ET Canada, Villamere: The Lowbrow Magazine of High-End CanLit and I’ve just released a book: Is Canada Even Real? How a Nation Built on Hobos, Beavers, Weirdos, and Hip-Hop Convinced the World to Beliebe.
Emmalee Nother
I’m a local lady with a love for all things country, hockey and small town. Born and raised in beautiful Haldimand County, my passion for where I grew up runs deep. My adventures have taken me from coast to coast in the entertainment biz but I always return home to my rescue dog, Duke and my cats on the farm. This gal is one of the greatest Art Directors that has worked with me!
KATE SHARROW
livesmalltownmag.ca As the year comes to an end and our fourth issue is done and dusted and I look to 2018 and wonder how the heck am I going to jam more information into my head? There are just so many folks doing amazing things in our community, not enough pages in this mag to showcase them as well as they deserve and most certainly not enough time in the day to find them all. Good Lord, please reach out and let us know you are there. We will be sooooooo thankful. My dream for 2018 is that I learn to take regular pee breaks, change out of my pjs and comb my hair at least four days of the week!
NANCY HOWDEN-COWELL
I live in a beautiful small village on the shores of Lake Erie and am surrounded by family, friends, art, local beauty, goodness and of course my sweet dog Mia. I will explore all the hidden gems that our lovely wee towns offer and share those experiences with you on social media and in the pages of Live Small Town Magazine.
NANCY DOMSIC KINGS
olliandella.com I was born with a wild imagination. My mother was naturally creative, so I grew up painting, planting, sewing, baking and creating. The second I picked up my first camera I became obsessed with capturing the small wonders around me. To date, my permanent creative status allows me to be an art director by trade, photographer by fate and remain imaginative by nature. I spend most days in the middle of a creative mess or treading lightly while adventuring with my husband, two funny kids and our little westie pup at our side.
MARC DOUGLAS
marcdouglas.ca I wouldn’t change a thing about growing up in the small town of Paris where I discovered a love for photography. My goal is to show the beauty, strength and enthusiasm of my subjects. As a husband and father of two children, I am a proud supporter of all things involving childhood cancer.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 9
Come Discover Haldimand
Discover History
Download the free Haldimand Connections Map App and take a scenic self-guided tour. Haldimand connections is available in the App Store and on Google Play.
explore culinary aDventures
take a relaxing trip to the countryside and visit one of our charming B & B’s. Dine on local fare and enjoy the beautiful scenery and quaint small towns and villages. For more information visit tourismHaldimand.ca or call 1-800-863-9607
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Jay Perry
jayperry.ca Over the last five years, besides working as a photographer being heavily involved in growing my charity, Friends With Heart, I have been spending my Sundays travelling to small pockets of Ontario and documenting my day trips online. Whether it be stories of unique individuals, #delicious #food, or #historic #landmarks, I’ve been detailing every event through photo, video and words. Look for this regular feature in Live Small Town Mag but also please like us on our Facebookpage as well follow my adventures on Instragram. I have some exciting ideas coming up and I can’t wait to show everyone the beauty that resides in our small towns. Jessica Stirling
sowshegrows.com I am a mother to two spirited children and I am raising them rural. I am passionate about teaching them to enjoy life’s beautiful simplicity and the importance of supporting a local food system. I am a big dog lover and day dreamer who enjoys listening to music, wandering aimlessly through fields and forests while getting lost in all of nature’s splendour... typically with my little ones in tow. An arbitrary artist and a random maker of many things - knitted, crocheted, sewn and beyond – I’m always adding new mediums to my skill set and fine tuning those I already have. Much of my adventure is captured on my inspiring blog sowshegrows.com. Life is a journey worth slowing down for, so join me as I stop and pause for the turtles crossing the road. SHANA NARCISO
realfoodmkt.ca I am a sustainable food advocate, small food business owner, mum to a brood of children and a partner to a local organic farmer. Food is part of everything I do. I believe that the foundation of a healthy community is the quality of the food we eat and how it gets to our plate.
Tim Zwart
timjzwart.com I embrace being a round peg in a square hole. A walking contradiction, I am a single dad of two small children, an American void of ignorance, love poutine but not maple syrup, and love sports but not hockey. A publishing veteran, magazine editor and author. My first book, Reload, is available on Amazon.
Call 1-888-442-2266 for your FREE catalogue
Kerstein Mallon
NOT JUST YOUR MOTHER’S YARN SHOP ANYMORE Your destination store for yarn, needlework, quilting cottons, kids’ crafts, puzzles, and lots more.
marymaxim.ca 75 Scott Ave, Paris & 1025 Wellington Rd, London
Growing up, in the land of fairies and leprechauns; twixt twilight and morning dew, I learned there’s more to life, than meets the eye. Exploring ancient ruins, offered an understanding of the past, present and future and how they intertwine. Now living in Ontario’s Garden, enables me to meet wonderful people and visit truly remarkable places. It’s my absolute pleasure to be able to share these unique stories with you. Louise Jessup
etsy.com/shop/AllOverTheMapStudios I am a small town, artist gal based in Kitchener and I love the life we have “crafted”. When I am not creating, I am running madly after my four boys... sons William and Clark and a Portuguese Water Dog named Winston and of course my wonderful husband. Patricia HOWDEN
After running away with the carnival for several years, I returned to Norfolk County to my beautiful piece of paradise in Port Ryerse. Thankfully surrounded by my family, friends and my puppy Ekko. One of the many things I enjoy is discovering the talented artist, crafters and traditions of the Six Nations people then sharing it with the followers of Live Small Town Magazine.
Join our amazing team selling fashionable, quality leggings or host your own party! Contact Sharon Gingras 519.717.6886 bottomsupboutique.com You’ll be in great company! 12 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
If you have ideas for the mag or would like to join our team, please feel free to reach out. Kerri and I running madly in all directions, soliciting help from friends, family and strangers on the street... we need all the help we can get! kate@livesmalltownmag.ca.
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LET’S GET SOCIAL!!! With over 6385+ followers on twitter and 1470+ on Facebook, there was no shortage of praise for our SECOND issue of Live Small Town Magazine. Here are just a few of our Faves!
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1 Avid Live readers Martha, Kelsey and their furry friend Bonnie from the Simcoe Animal Hospital. 2 One of biggest supporters and advertising partners, Jeff from Ayr Farmers Mutual Insurance ayrmutual.com 3 Look at our girl Nadia volunteering at Wincey Mills and directing tourists. Keep up the good work my dear! winceymills.ca in Paris 4 Ms Fraser’s grade 10 English class at Paris District High School strikes a pose 5 The lovely Tracie Plommer of Brushed Designs in Waterford brusheddesigns.ca 6 Love all the Free Little Libraries popping up in all of our wee towns! 7 Krista Schaus enjoys a day at Port Dover’s Elements Day Spa elementsdayspa.ca 8 Lilah, Max, Jess, and Wally of Caledonia are part of our regular creative crew sowshegrows.com 9 When not playing games, Lance from Fly By Knight Games is avidly loving local by reading our mag! 10 The spirited Denise Kirby of Lakeside Decor in Port Rowan was caught red handed loving up Frank Santra (AKA Johnny Scat) johnnyscat.com and Live Small Town Mag!
@thesecondmouse Lots of familiar faces in this issue of @LiveSmallTown @NorfolkTour #norfolk @DTConcertSeries Hey @LiveSmallTown! Thanks for the shoutout in the new issue! Keep up the amazing work! #Brant #Paris #ParisON #SMALLTOWN #livesmalltown @LydiaLoca Hey!! Make sure to Pick up your copy of @livesmalltownmag. There’s a little write up titled “Harvest Crush” featuring your favourite wine nerd and lotsa of other great things happening In #norfolk #brant #haldimand county’s + @Contact_Brant Wow! @LiveSmallTown the Fall magazine looks great and has lots of fabulous content. Can’t wait to get our hands on the printed copies! @BrantCommunity Thank-you @LiveSmallTown Magazine for once again showcasing the #GoodTimesinBrant! Be sure to flip through the Fall publication online. @mixtapemedusa Are you a lover of all things rural? Are you itching for a daytrip out to the country? Check out @LiveSmallTown mag! Julia’s Bistro & Catering Hurry I want some. Everyone is awaiting this one! Barbara Mackay So fun to see ourselves in this issue! Was ay Friday the 13th in Port Dover, picked up a copy while in the Beach House Restaurant, leafed through & voila there we were! Wendy Karley Hannenberg I need a copy where can I get One? Cindy Gerber Love this magazine! A friend gave me the Spring 2017 edition. Read it and kept it. Feel good stories. Community building at its best. Great work! Veronika Simmons I highly recommend reading or browsing this magazine if you live in or plan on visiting Southern Ontario. This is the third edition. All wonderful reads and gorgeous photos!! Totally in love with this. I just need it in hard copy to add on my shelf with the other two. Please share it so your family and friends can read it too. Ayr Farmers Mutual Insurance Co. You haven’t read Live Small Town Mag yet? It’s loaded with info about local business, experiences and people in your area! We have a bunch of copies at our office. Come pick one up!
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Kari Raymer Bishop
Paris I’ve lived and travelled all over the world, but now proudly call Paris home. We’re putting down roots in a truly beautiful spot, where our child regularly throws rocks in not one but two rivers, explores forests and farms with gusto, and experiences a true wildhood along with his friends. We cherish the kind connectedness of this community, enjoy the fact that everything is just a stroll away and gleefully celebrate the growing arts and culture scene. We’re finally home!
Small Town. Big Dreams!
Have you been dreaming about a small-town life? Just maybe the six lane gridlock has finally gotten to you, or the hubcap thieving desperadoes, the constant bedlam of mega urban hoo-ha, or the dogged clip of tar paved expansion. What ever the reason, you are not alone. These are just a few folks who have geared down, jumped off the crazy train and made a new life worth boasting about! BY Kate Sharrow
Spencer Noseworthy
Gregg McLachlan
Paris A small town is a great place to be raised. I have lived in Paris my entire life and it’s a great place to do many outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and sports. In a small town everyone is connected. I can always go to a neighbour for help and often they offer to help without being asked! Everyone cares for one another in this small town. In big cities people live beside you, but in small towns neighbours live beside you.
Simcoe I spent my childhood growing up in a large city, always wishing I was in a small town. When our family would take trips to the country, I remember looking out the window of the station wagon as we left and seeing the land, trees, and farms everywhere, and missing it all as we inched closer and closer back to the city. Small towns are my happy place. They just feel right to me. Always have. I just think small town life was in my soul from the very beginning.
Rita Attanasi
Port Rowan I have lived in different towns and cities, mostly in or surrounding the Toronto area. I slowly found myself moving west. Mississauga, Oakville, Brantford and finally Port Rowan. What drew me here was the small town feel, the mindfulness you experience by just being here and taking in all the beauty surrounding you, the peace, the quiet, the nature and my favorite, the water. I took a leap moving here, running a business and renovating! I am happy with the choice I made.
Sarah Gurney
Graeme Bachiu
Paris I followed my husband back to his home town of Paris when we decided to start our family and it was the best decision we have ever made. Nothing beats the safe feeling of community and togetherness like in a small town. Passing familiar faces at the local shops makes it really feel like “home”. Of course you can’t beat the sound of the train rolling through town, or splashing in the Nith River on a hot summer day.
Cayuga Life in Hamilton was pretty good but with twins on the way my wife and I decided that a small house on a 21 foot wide lot in the east end of Hamilton probably wasn’t going to work anymore. I’d be lying if I didn’t say that the property values worked for us in Haldimand but once we got here we realized we had landed in an amazing community full of creative energy and interesting stories! I can handle a traffic jam caused by wildlife instead of cars.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 15
Kindness and caring is contagious!... It is the “bug” we should all hope to catch. I am a huge believer in paying it forward... hence my desire to showcase all of these “earth angels” and shine a light on the meaningful ways they help the people in our small town communities. Talk about it, get excited about it and most of all act on it! I will be showcasing acts of kindness in each issue of Live Small Town Magazine. If you have a special story, person or place that you would like me to showcase please reach out. Wishing you all smiles, happiness and love. Kerri
Selkirk Chamber of Commerce and Community selkirkanddistrictchamber.ca The Selkirk Chamber, Jingle Committee, and Hall Board made a difference this year by hosting “Quiet Christmas” on Nov. 25th. A celebration dedicated to those in the community with special needs who require a toned down experience to truly enjoy the season. An Illuminated Tractor Parade and a celebration with Santa, suggested by Erin Jenkins, a local teacher and organizer, also made these festivities complete. Thank you Selkirk for your pure insight and compassion.
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Change Makers, Having an Impact in a Community Near You! Sometimes it’s the little day-to-day things that go unrecognized in our lives which end up having the biggest impact BY Kerri Kelly-Parkinson
kerri@livesmalltownmag.ca
The Kindness Project Brantford thekindnessproject.ca The Kindness Project, an outreach program created by Freedom House to foster kindness in community. Throughout the year, Captain Kindness commits and encourages many random acts of kindness in hopes to make Brantford a better place to live. He is also on a mission to make the city the kindest place in Canada. These creative and wacky ideas are exactly what we need to make a difference. Thank you. 16 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Scooby Canada Paris ScoobyCanada.org. Since 2004, through the Scooby Shelter in Spain, Eva Andrews has been an advocate for Spanish Greyhounds called Galgos. They are bred solely for their annual hunting season. Between the months of October through January they spend most of their days confined in dark sheds and neglected. After which, approximately 50,000 dogs are discarded. Typically in an extremely cruel manner. In September 2014, Eva and her husband Tim decided to focus on spreading awareness in Canada and Scooby Canada was formed exclusively to be the voice between the Scooby Animal Refuge in Medina del Campo, Spain and the people of Canada. She also focuses on encouraging adopting, volunteering, and fundraising. We are so thankful to Eva and Tim for dedicating their hearts and lives to caring for these animals. Please find out how you too can help.
They spend most of their days confined in dark sheds and neglected.
COmfORt & StyLE. CLOSER tHEn yOU Can ImaGInE! Hearth & Home has spent the last 40 years plus, specializing in gas fireplaces, heating, cooling, and water treatment products and services. Focusing on the growth of our expertise, we have become Brantford’s home comfort specialists! Offering many diverse and related services to make life easier for you and your family. We are proud to say that our growth is a direct result of our dedicated team of employees, our repeat business and referrals from satisfied customers. To ensure satisfaction, we designed the House Trained Program.
Besides being schooled in every aspect of making your home comfortable, on the heating and the cooling side, it is instilled in every one of our employees to treat your home like their own. Leaving it as they found it, with a full clean up that stresses careful attention to detail. At Hearth & Home we also pride ourselves on strong family values. Through our support of charitable groups and programs, we hope to help them make our community the best place to live. Are you looking for a new gas or electric fireplace? We invite you to
come and visit Brant County’s largest Fireplace Showroom! Let the experts at Hearth & Home assist you in designing your custom fireplace. All consultations are complimentary. Did you know that your gas fireplace should be cleaned and inspected annually? This ensures its safe and proper operation. Fall is the perfect time to have this done, ensuring comfort and warmth all winter. Call us to arrange your fireplace cleaning and inspection at 519-756-4374. We will arrange for one of our qualified service technicians to take care of your existing gas fireplace.
224 Braneida Lane, Brantford 519-756-4374 24 HOUR SERVICE myhearthandhome.ca Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 17
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Joy Bakery in Simcoe put a lot of research and thought into their bean roasting selection. Buying freshly roasted coffee from Smile Tiger in Kitchener, Waterloo allows them to offer Direct Trade coffee beans. Roasted in small batches while featuring beans from all over the world, based on seasonal growth and harvest. This gives them the unique opportunity to allow costumers to taste the difference that the soil makes to the finished product, and to learn about farmers from around the world. joyofnorfolk.ca
Behind every good person, there has usually been some good food. At Live Small Town, we’d like to celebrate both: highlighting the best local foods and recipes around, while introducing you to the creative and talented people who make them possible. From innovative techniques and ingredients to updated twists on some of our old favorites, this is your one-stop-shop for everything food, family, and fellowship related. After all, every food journey starts with a single bite!
PHOTOGRAPHY by rab ritchie
Home Grown
Simply Delicious Dishes Finding a balance between a wee bit of Culinary crazy is my secret to keeping friends & family close BY Kate Sharrow When I was a young girl I was always in awe of how my mum could magically transform an empty larder into a beautifully orchestrated Sunday dinner then manage to convert what remained into a week long banquet of nourishing meals. With seven mouths to fill, it truly was an inspiring act of inventiveness that was often met with scant accolades as we all promptly dispersed, leaving her with the mess to clean. I was not always encouraged to delve into my culinary imagination as mum managed a tight budget and I had an inability to follow the simplest of recipes. That said, when no one was looking, I frequently veered dramatically off course. Was I going to make a pasta today? A bundt cake? Or... possibly a mashup of both? Masterful creations like Peppermint Spaghetti were never received
well and often left me eating it alone for the week that followed as the rest of my family chowed down on something less exotic. Still to this day I struggle to follow instruction and tend to look to recipes as an inspiring place to start. For the most part this serves me and my household well. Italian Wedding Soup Yields: 6-8 servings This is a sinfully delicious recipe. No one is more popular in my house when this brew is bubbling away and fogging up the kitchen windows. Most of my soup or sauce recipes start with my secret weapon. A frying pan full of slow cooked onions, garlic and lots of butter. Puree them and set aside for broth. Plus set aside one cup for the meat balls. Meat Balls 2 lb Ground beef and pork
1 Cup of secret weapon onion, garlic, butter puree. 1 Cup Parmesan 2 Cups bread crumbs 2 Eggs 1/2 Cup of cream Italian spices. Lots. Maybe even a scoop of pesto. A few hand fulls of freshly chopped parsley. Roll teeny-tiny balls in flour and fry in olive oil. In a big pot combine remaining secret weapon onions, garlic and butter puree. 3 x 900 ml chicken stock 2 Cup Carrots Cook until carrots are soft Add 2+ cups fresh spinach 1 Cup of Acini di pepe Wee Italian pasta balls Season at will with salt and pepper. Maybe even a smidge of dried hot pepper flakes for a bit of a bite. Buon appetito!
I don’t think folks realize how easy it is to create homemade goodness. That is especially true with the perfect mate to this soup. Bread! Below is the easiest recipe that will leave you with two loaves baking in less then an hour and zero, arm-wrenching kneading! Start a load in your dish washer! 2 Cups warm milk 2 tbs active yeast 3 tbs sugar to get the yeast moving faster 2 tbs of butter 1 Egg 4 Cups of flour mixed with 2 tsp baking powder Mix up this gooey mess. Spray two loaf pans. Cover with a grocery bag and let is rise for 20 mins in your steamy (turned off) dish washer. Pop in the oven at 350 °F for about 40 ish mins and serve once cooled!
Kate Sharrow is a mum of two uniquely beautiful teenagers. Sister to many lovelies. A daughter to an amazing mum. The sweet heart of someone even sweeter. Friend to an ever growing medley of gorgeous people. Business partner and friend to Kerri in creating Live Small Town Magazine. She is the queen of multitasking, spider poo removal, home renovations, culinary brilliance, toe nail painting, story telling, child manipulation, magazine making and she has man hands. She is yet to master combing her hair before noon (really 3 pm or later) and can be found most days, dishevelled in pjs, spinning in a sundry of directions and living small town perfectly, unperfectly. Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 19
Looking for something healthy and local? We have a bajillion places to suit all tastes and budgets. Here is just one delicious option. BY kerstein mallon
Sometimes, people feel left out, like a third shoe or a bottle of hot sauce at 6 year old’s birthday party. Sometimes, people feel as though they just don’t fit in. Being a part of a social group is vital to being a positive person. Everyone, everywhere has the same compulsion; a need to belong, a need to
participate in something familiar. There is a place that nurtures that very concept, in Paris, ON. The Raw Carrot opened its doors to welcome people who were once excluded, and who are now thriving in the liberating and regenerative, non-judgemental environment. Two strong willed, determined ladies, Rebecca Sherbino and Colleen Graham, put their heads together and came up with a strategy to provide opportunities for people facing employment challenges. With their motto “a hand up is way better than a hand out” and with their desire to
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tackle poverty with sustainable, lasting change, they devised a plan to give people purpose. An idea designed to help those who face employment barriers or suffer from social exclusion. Everyone who is part of The Raw Carrot, volunteers, employees, and customers, share a common goal: The desire to live a purposeful life. Colleen and Rebecca first came up with the idea of making soup because it could be a complete, nourishing meal in a bowl. Located in the basement of the Paris Presbyterian Church, they have a full commercial kitchen and all participants are trained in food safety. The team has set up a system where staff and volunteers come together every week to make the most delicious, nourishing soups. They have aligned
themselves with local farmers and growers and use locally sourced fresh, preservative free ingredients. As with all great recipes and success stories, the team comes together in the kitchen to create and work enthusiastically, preparing healthy, handcrafted gourmet soups and stews which are sold to schools, seniors and at farmers markets. The objective is simply to nourish body, mind and soul. The Raw Carrot operates Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and Thursdays, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Soup is packaged in a few sizes and orders can be placed over the telephone by calling 519-865-1965, via email at info@therawcarrot. com or on Facebook and picked up at the church. For more information, visit: therawcarrot.com.
The Raw Carrot PHOTOs by janeandjury.com
Dining Out Farm to Table
Delicious dover COast These days deciding on a place to eat can be akin to placing a bet on the best named horse in the race. Similarly, Port Dover might not be an obvious choice when choosing that winner. Then again, this is Port Dover we’re talking about, where it’s always best to expect the unexpected. People are flocking to the area for the motorcycles, the wineries, the restaurants and the art scene. Other beach towns seem downright basic, by comparison. Just off the beaten path, outside Port Dover, there is a sublime place to rest and refresh. David’s Restaurant & Spa is open to anyone seeking an out of the ordinary experience. A
place to revitalize both heart and soul. The superior location offers day spa packages and meals fit for a king. David’s Restaurant is home to a chef whose limits know no boundaries. Award winner and creative genius, Scott McRae, offers a pleasing choice of delectable entrées, signature desserts and a prix fixe menu item to satiate even the pickiest palate. He turns each dish into an artful assemblage of ethically raised meats, served with a bright array of local veggies with splendid atoms of flavour and the portions are hearty. The ambience is rustic, yet meticulously executed to top class standards.
Our Compliments From Vintage Wines to Microbreweries and unique IPAs and Lagers, let us lend a hand with suggestions to accompany your meal or gathering Whether you plan to dine with friends, enjoy apps after work or choose to opt for their unique Tuesday Night Date Night package, you are sure to be thrilled by the food and the atmosphere and let’s not forget, the magnificent vista. David’s is the place for any occasion. Their spacious dining room overlooking stunning Lake Erie, the culinary delights and outstanding service will provide an unforgettable experience. davidsportdover.com
Charlotteville Brewing Company Simcoe charlottevillebrewingcompany.ca Please welcome the latest additions to Norfolk’s brewing crew. An environmentally responsible farm brewery, producing local and sustainable suds! Expect a lineup of IPAs, porters, stouts and sour beers and an onsite restaurant with about 30 seats+ patio.
Kerstein Mallon
Steel Wheel Estate Brewery Brant steelwheel.ca An earth-to-glass, 1890s vintage farmhouse, tasting room and brewery, offering a place to learn, gather, and quench on an array of beers. Quality rather than quantity so every time you visit there will be something new on tap! Imagine raspberry wheat beer and a rhubarb ale!
Smoke & Gamble Cellars Port Dover smokeandgamble.ca Formally know as Dover Vineyards, This winery is uniquely producing Amarone style wine by slowly drying the grapes in former tobacco kilns and successfully increasing the concentration of the fruit and flavour. Excited to see what is to come! Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 21
On the Map
Health Matters It is time we pamper ourselves guilt free and stop forgetting that loving ourselves is a fundamental thing. BY NANCY HOWDEN-COWELL Elements Day Spa Port Dover elementsdayspa.ca Pampering ourselves in a spa may seem like something that only the very rich can do but this unisex spa offers us luxury at an affordable price. Beginning with a complementary swim in the salt water pool, a dry sauna, and an invigorating rainforest shower before you head up to enjoy your facial, manicure, pedicure or massage. Give yourself or someone you love this gift of pleasure.
By The Bridge Wellness Paris bythebridgewellness.com Every pregnant woman deserves to enjoy a safe nurturing massage designed to ease the discomfort caused by the physical changes that occur while waiting for the most important moment of your life. This is just one of the nine massages offered at this wonderful wellness centre. Soothe your body and spirit in this charming old repurposed home near the beautiful Grand River in Paris
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Nu-U Float Studio Brantford nu-ufloat.ca Recharge and refresh your mind and body! Floating in a sound proof tank in 11 inches of Epsom salted water may seem a bit intimidating but the proven benefits of Flotation Therapy are undeniable. Initially used to treat depression and anxiety, athletes are now using the tanks to treat injuries as well as improving mental focus. There is no need to continue to suffer from chronic pain.
22 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Sweet Greens Hagersville sweetgreens.ca Curing herself naturally from a childhood illness, Bobbi-Jo Meyer lives a clean, healthy life style. She opened Sweet Greens in Hagersville four years ago and shares her knowledge hosting workshops on everything from chemical free cleaning supplies to anti-aging. Besides offering a wide range of products that can enhance your life, the juice bar/cafe is what sets this unique store apart.
Twisted Fish Port Dover twistedfish.ca In our fast paced world we tend to lose ourselves in all the roles we play in life. Taking an hour each visit to centre yourself on a mat, enhancing your mind, body and spirit is the best gift you can give yourself. This beautiful studio offers you a peaceful space and teachers trained in various styles of yoga help you bring balance, flexibility, and mindfulness to your life.
Willow-Glen Clinic Caledonia willowglenclinic.com Have you made promises every year to yourself? Do you want to quit smoking, lose weight or overcome depression and anxiety? Combining Clinical Hypnotherapy with Energy Healing Reiki, for many years, this family run clinic has successfully helped clients reach their goals without feeling deprived. Tony and Helena insure that you leave each session feeling renewed, relaxed and loved.
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Culinary Arts
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NORFOLK COUNTY Normandale The Normandale Century Inn and Restaurant
2326 Front Rd, normandaleinn.com Stay for few nights or for a single meal and enjoy their licensed outdoor patio featuring delicious country cuisine. PORT DOVER David’s Restaurant
168 New Lake Shore Rd, davidsportdover.com This refined Canadian restaurant with lake view, offers an upstairs lounge with live weekend music. Knechtel’s
15 Walker St, knechtelfoods.ca A Port Dover signature beach front destination for over 50 years, serving Lake Erie Perch and Pickerel, burgers, foot-long hot dogs, and ice cream cones.
Stop by to watch the game, grab a pint, hunker down and prepare to never want to leave until you’ve eaten your way through our menu. Whether it’s our sinful pizza, our stop-your-heart sandwiches, or our lick-your-figures-clean wings, we take pride in everything we make.
88 Main St S, HaGERSViLLE 905-768-4040
Lago Trattoria
301 Main St, lagoportdover.ca A menu that features freshly made Italian fare with seasonal twists. Enjoy fresh pasta, sauce, gelato, and more. The Crepe House
2012 Park St, crepehouse.ca A quaint eatery set in an 1880s house features sweet and savoury crepes along with espresso drinks. SAINT WILLIAMS Burning Kiln Winery
1709 Front Rd, burningkilnwinery.ca A spectacular winery that honours agricultural heritage, culinary, and cultural bounty of Norfolk County. SIMCOE Barrel Restaurant
131 Queensway W, barrelrestaurant.ca A warm inviting atmosphere with fresh home-made Italian food, gourmet pizza, chicken, veal, seafood, and gluten free items. A casual Italian restaurant at its best. Celebrating 30 years of great food. Dine in, patio, takeout, and delivery available. Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 23
The Combine
352 Norfolk St S, thecombine.ca Fun, honest food built on local bounty. Handmade brick oven, garden patio and wine menu. Joy Bakery Café
126 Robinson St, joyofnorfolk.ca What an excellent place to visit with friends, drink good coffee, eat fabulous baked goods and simply relax! Locally sourced deliciousness at its best. TURKEY POINT Sandbar On The Beach
45 Cedar Dr, sandbaronthebeach.com Come for the breathtaking view of Lake Erie from their incredible patio, then stay and enjoy a meal with an assortment of craft beers and a tasteful wine selection to pair. Inspired by French Bistros and Lyonnaise Bouchon cuisine, Juniper Dining Co. is a modern fine dining restaurant with a comfortable and casual environment, located in Paris, Ontario. We marry quality local and seasonal ingredients with inventive cocktails, local beers and carefully chosen wines to create memorable experiences, time and time again.
3 ELM ST, PARIS 519-302-2200
juniperdiningco.ca
WATERFORD Kerry’s St. James St. Eatery
10 St James St S, A relaxing and nostalgically retro atmosphere with an amazing cup of joe and tantalizing homemade fare! Ritzy Cakes & Eatery
20 Alice St, robinsritzycakes.com A spectacular small family-run bakery also serving coffees, teas, paninis, soups, Belgian waffles, breakfast and so much more. Did I mention their treats? Vittoria The Catherwood and The Kiln
Featuring local food, groceries & prepared meals Fresh from local farmers, bakers & chefs; organic produce, eggs, coffee, dressings, meals, treats & more Visit the market or order online for pick-up
1008 King Street West Unit A, Hamilton 289-396-2392
realfoodmkt.ca
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1560 Old Brock St, The Catherwood and The Kiln is a family style restaurant famous for homemade pizza, wings, and the Nitehawk sub! Dine in, or take their flavourful feasts to go. HALDIMAND COUNTY CALEDONIA Argyle St. Grill
345 Argyle St S, theargylestreetgrill.com Upscale eatery at family friendly prices using mainly fresh and local products makes the Argyle a must try. Oasis Drive-In
22 Argyle St S, Opened in 1927, Oasis is Canada’s oldest drive-in restaurant. Pop in for their tasty foot-long hot dogs, golden fresh cut fries or a big scoop ice cream cone.
Please let us share our restaurant with it’s unique coastal cuisine and tropical trend in one of Ontario’s best small towns, Port Dover. 2 Walker St. Port Dover 519-583-0880
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 25
Cayuga Shelly’s Family Dining Restaurant
1192 Kohler Rd, shellyscatering.wixsite.com/ shellysrestaurant This unique restaurant is set in a remodelled old church, and quite often has live music serenading it’s patrons. The home-style fare is also heavenly. Twisted Lemon
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Long Point Eco-Adventures provides you with a unique experience. From the moment you arrive on-site, you will feel the relaxing effects of nature, and the warm welcome of our staff. We are a fun-loving, outdoor adventure company, here to provide amazing experiences with our world-class guides, zipline and canopy tours, accommodations and observatory.
LO
Adventure AwAits!
3 Norton St W, twistedlemon.ca Always expect a fine dining experience but make a reservation because this place is a hot spot for flavour junkies. Be prepared for gourmet surprises.
-ADVENTURES ECO BOOK ONLINE
lpfun.ca
CALL 877-743-8687
DUNNVILLE Julia’s Bistro
217 Niagara St, juliasbistroandcatering.com Julia’s satisfies anyone’s craving for homemade Italian cooking while adding her unique style! The Minga
146 Queen St, Serious coffees and sweets, many of their ingredients are organic, and most are sourced locally. You can’t beat their organic, fair-trade coffee for $1.80! HAGERSVILLE Hewitt’s Dairy Bar
We invite you to experience our spectacular winery which honours our agricultural heritage and celebrates the culinary and cultural bounty of Norfolk County. Open 7 days a week. Come visit us during harvest.
4210 Highway 6, hewittsdairy.com/dairy-bar Featuring an old-time lunch counter feel that looks right out of the 1950’s, a great selection of ice-cream treats and simple diner fare. A reminder that not everything has to change. Main 88 Pizza Pub
88 Main St S, This place offers the best pizza around, with lots of flavourful toppings on a thin crust. The bar is well stocked with beer and spirits, and with three large flat screens, it is the perfect place to watch the game. JARVIS D&D’s Family Dining
1709 Front Rd, Saint Williams 519-586-9858 burningkilnwinery.ca
2091 Main St, dndsfamilydining.com A restaurant that radiates a family atmosphere with great food and personable patrons. Make a reservation! Devine’s Country Restaurant
116 Talbot St E, devinesrestaurant.ca 26 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Famous for their all-day breakfast, savoury lunches and homemade desserts that are nothing short of divine. BRANTFORD Cafe Andreou
104 West St, Fine dining in a 1865 home with Italian and continental cuisine. Enjoy exquisite food with hospitality at its finest. On the Lam
106 Queen st, onthelamrestaurant.com What a unique restaurant. Gourmet and RAW menus, fine wines, craft beers, old school cocktails all in a really cool location. Check them out! Strodes BBQ & Deli
403 Fairview Drive, strodes.ca Open since 1937, Strodes not only carries a variety of select cuts of chicken, beef, poultry, lamb and other specialty meats, but also serves up homestyle lunch options. BRANT COUNTY BURFORD Cravin a Burger
121 King St, A burger place with a 50s 60s rock and roll atmosphere that brags that their food; is not fast food, it’s just served fast. The Log House
131 King St, theloghouserestaurant.ca With their family, sports bar geared atmosphere this eatery certainly is a small town gem. Mount Pleasant Devlin’s County Bistro & Catering
704 Mt. Pleasant Rd. devlinscountrybistro.com This former combined general store, post office and residence, has been an enduring fixture in the community for over 125 years, adding Devlin’s Country Bistro in 1990. Offering contemporary Italian cuisine with a unique and delicious Californian flair. St George Abigail’s Tea House
2 Main St, abigailsteahouse.com Located in an old bank in a picturesque village, they offer an exquisite dining experience in a calm and beautifully Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 27 WM-Live-Mag-Ad-Winter-2018-OL.indd 1
2017-12-04 9:30 AM
The Paris Fairgrounds Your CommunitY’s Year round event FaCilitY The Paris Agricultural Society’s mission is to promote and conserve agriculture throughout the County of Brant and surrounding areas through our annual fair and provide facilities to enrich the health and education of the community as a whole.
We have been helping organizers plan memorable events for generations. The facilities provide a convenient location for a variety of events year-round. We are easily accessible from both the 401 and QEW and feature five buildings along with acres of parking.
parisfair.com
antique-inspired environment. Reservations are always recommended. Chef In A Box
181 Brant Rd, chefinabox.com This gas station turned gourmet food truck (of sorts), sure is something to see, and the food is not bad either; especially the lobster mac and cheese. Worth the trip and sure to fill you up! PARIS Juniper Dining Co.
3 Elm St, juniperdiningco.ca Inspired by French Bistros and Lyonnaise Bouchon cuisine, this modern restaurant marries quality local and seasonal ingredients with inventive cocktails, local beers and carefully chosen wines to create memorable experiences, time and time again. Stillwaters Plate & Pour
61 Grand River St N, stillwatersplateandpour.ca A globally inspired menu created by Chef William Thompson of Food Network’s Top Chef Canada, coupled with a breathtaking rooftop patio, leaves nothing left to the imagination. The Cobblestone Pub
111 Grand River St N, cobblestonepub.ca This laid-back, old-time watering hole features a menu of gourmet versions of pub favourites, and is a mainstay for neighbours and visitors alike. SIX NATIONS of the grand river TERRITORY Ohsweken Burger Barn
Dine-In • Delivery • Catering • Take-Out
barrelrestaurant.ca 28 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Today I choose joy! 126 ROBINSON ST. SIMCOE 519-420-9999 joyofnorfolk.ca
3000 4th Line, burgerbarn.ca Known for their amazing gourmet burgers that are always served with a surprising twist. Their southern style comfort food is sure to satisfy any appetite. Offering daily specials and all day breakfast. If you bring the whole family there will be something for all! Village Cafe 1875 Fourth Line, If you are near Oshweken be sure to go to the Village Cafe. The food is reasonably priced, delicious and the atmosphere is relaxing and welcoming. If you are looking for something traditional, the corn soup is a must!
DOWNTOWN PARIS
TAX FREE DECEMBER 1-31, 2017
Whether it be for beer and wings, steak and wine or a night out with the family, come experience casual dining the way it was meant to be.
Flown in fresh weekly from Canada’s East Coast 31 Mechanic St. Paris Paris, Ontario. Wincey Mills 519-757-7617
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111 Grand River St N, Paris 519-442-1820
54 GRAND RIVER ST. N. 519-442-2176
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19 WILLIAm ST, pARIS 519-442-2287 ghunter@tarrisonandhunter.com
tarrisonandhunter.ca
stillwatersplateandpour.ca 61 Grand river St n, PariS
519-302-3000
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 29
SOW SHE GROWS
Winter Wonder
There are so many local guided tours such as Bird Studies Canada
The winter months bring with them new adventures. Some of which are pleasantly snowy! What’s more fun than getting outside and making snowmen and snow angels or drawing in the fluffy white stuff on the front lawn! Lilah and Max love coming in from the chilly outdoors to warm up with apple cider or hot chocolate. Sipping on hot drinks with soft socks and watching the snow fall down softly on to the tree branches is one of our favourite things to do. When we can, we venture out to the trails or wander through forested areas along the Grand River. They are often forgotten as places of exploration when the weather takes a cold turn but there is so much beauty to behold in the winter chill. We bundle up, get Wally’s leash and head on out to enjoy all that nature has to offer! The kids love collecting sticks, crunching through the sparkling snow while chasing Wally and trying to identify all the different birds who stay local over the winter months. Sometimes we get lucky and spot a deer or two in the solitary fields! Winter often finds me desperate for inspiration. Being stuck inside during a frosty stretch can wreak havoc on my wee crew and I am often searching for activities to keep us all busy. Crafting seems to settle little spirits and we create a lot of fun projects together using all different types of mediums! There are so many great ideas out there and most can be made with things you find around the house. Coffee filter snowflakes, toilet paper roll penguins and paper plate polar bears are a few creations we love!
Our local farmers have lots to offer for winter comfort cooking and feasting
Blustery days are also perfect for snuggling up with a cozy blanket and watching silly movies together. Followed by some delicious nibblies to share and getting lost in the worlds of our most treasured story books. I can not think of a better way to spend an evening and Lilah and Max most certainly agree! We also enjoy making gifts of kindness that we pass on to brighten the days of friends and family during the darker winter months. Lilah and Max enjoy baking cookies or making chocolates, putting together baskets of favourite treats and cooking comfort food dishes to show our appreciation to loved ones. Often life is so busy we forget to let those near and dear know just how much they matter so this is a great way to express our sincere gratitude. Instilling these ideals in young minds seem to be an easy task. There is almost a magical feeling throughout the winter season. It’s initiated over the holidays and carries on throughout the colder months. The glistening snow illuminates the most grey of days and the smiles on the faces of those around us warm our hearts. It’s this simple splendour I look forward to every winter and I am so thankful to share it with Lilah and Max now and for years to come.
Jessica Stirling is mother to two spirited children and is raising them rural. She is passionate about teaching them to enjoy life’s beautiful simplicity and the importance of supporting a local food system. She is a big dog lover and day dreamer who enjoys listening to music, wandering aimlessly through fields and forests while getting lost in all of nature’s splendour... typically with her little ones in tow. An arbitrary artist and a random maker of many things - knitted, crocheted, sewn and beyond – she is always adding new mediums to her skill set and fine tuning those she already has acquired. Much of her adventure is captured on her inspiring blog sowshegrows.com. Life is a journey worth slowing down for, so join her as she stops and pauses for the turtles crossing the road. 30 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
beating the blaS! Everyday is a new beginning, So Take a deep breath and start again! Beat the winter blAS with moderation & wellness goals. BY Nicole VanQuaethem The cold is coming and we may be feeling the gravitational forces of our couch. It can be hard to stay motivated, eat healthy, and exercise when the season begins to change. If you look in your nearest department store, you will notice that holiday season is just around the corner which means parties, cheesy cas-
serole dishes and cookies. So how do you maintain health and wellness goals during the winter months? Well, first start by physically writing down your goals. Keep your goals simple and attainable. Post this list somewhere visible so you can be reminded of your goals from time to time. Next, create boundaries.
The holiday season is approaching so understand that it is a time to indulge. Indulge in moderation, enjoy those treats for what they are and know when you’ve had enough. Creating boundaries also applies to social obligations. Be sure to not overcommit and stretch yourself too thin. With all of the chaos that this time of the year can bring, make time for yourself. Mental health is extremely important, so be sure to cozy up, read a book, relax or binge watch Netflix if that’s your thing. One thing we often neglect is getting outside! It may not be the most tolerable at times, but most of us are deficient in vitamin D due to our lack of sun exposure. Bundle up, grab a friend and go for a winter walk. We
have beautiful towns and outdoor spaces in our area. Take advantage of them in the winter months too. Next, stock you pantry with healthy yet comforting foods. Eat within the seasons and incorporate root vegetables that will give you that sense of grounding. Ontarians have a lot of local food options in the winter such as beets, cabbage, garlic, leeks, potatoes, and my favourite, squash. This is the time to pull out the crockpot and make some stews and soups, which are great nutrient dense options in the winter. Overwhelmed? One thing to take away is to keep everything within moderation. Indulge in moderation, laze around in moderation and only commit to what you can manage.
Nicole VanQuaethem is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Culinary Nutrition Expert and owner of Simply Nic Nutrition, where she focuses on educating and empowering people to make healthy choices for themselves. She also has her Masters of Science in Rural Planning and Development where she focused most of her research on local food systems, agri-tourism, culinary tourism and food access. Nicole grew up on a farm, which inspired her studies and work in rural development in southern Ontario. Combining her passion for nutrition and local food, she teaches people to eat within the seasons and to become connected to the food they eat. In her free time, she likes spend time in the kitchen testing recipes, getting outside, and cuddling with her little dog Chloe. simplynicnutrition.com 32 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
It’s Where You Really Belong...
DINING • CURLING • GOLF
60 Ava Road, Brantford, Ontario 519-752-3731 matt@brantfordgolf-cc.com
brantfordgolfandcountryclub.com
The Wincey Mills Co
LOCAL IS THE NEW BLACK
Now More then ever folks are Buying Local & Supporting the dreams of enterprising, go-getters. From bustling downtowns, A mixed bag of markets, & hidden gems we have no shortage of options.
Written by Emmalee Nother
rom marvellous marketplaces to historic downtowns, supporting local community shops has had a bountiful resurgence. Carefully crafted goods created and curated by family-owned businesses and unique, beautifully handmade wares by local artisans and crafters have become a popular choice to purchase for others and to treat ourselves. With so many wonderful, whimsical places to shop, here’s a cozy, little guide with some of the best shops and hidden gems this area has to offer! Market Mayhem There’s nothing quite like a bustling small town market to get your senses running. The smells of fresh baked goods, the sounds of jovial conversation and the colourful sights immediately gives you that warm, fuzzy feeling we all crave in these wintery months. Nestled in the picturesque town of Paris you’ll find The Wincey Mills Co., or as it’s lovingly called by locals – The Wincey. This 128 year-old building houses a variety of local vendors from local produce, meats and cheeses to original works made by local artists. Truly a hub of culture, community and cuisine. Grab a rich, warm cuppa coffee from the Blue Dog Café as you walk around and discover everything the three-story building has to offer. Open year round, The Wincey is open every Thursday through Saturday.
If you find yourself searching for that perfect one-stop shop in Haldimand County, look no further than the Haldimand House. Located just south of the historic Caledonia Bridge in Caledonia, this market houses many local artisans who work together creating an atmosphere of old world charm in a more modern setting. From finding that perfect piece for the Harley Davidson lover in your family at Biker’s Haven to the elegant jewels from For the Love of Bling, Haldimand House has something for everyone. Make sure you work up an appetite, The Oasis Drive-In is just next door and the mouthwatering aroma of their golden fries wafts through the air begging you to come in and try them. Open 7 days a week, this small town staple is full of surprises. For the antique lover in your life, Franni’s Attic in Port Rowan will certainly float your boat. Shopping the shores of Lake Erie, this rustic gem houses a cluster of local vendors and artists who offer a unique collection of old and new. Antiques a plenty, there is so much to see in this shop, you will lose track of time in the best way possible. Check out the repurposed goodies from Heartfelt Finds and be mesmerized by the creativity and whimsy of their many pieces. It’s hard not to buy one of each!
Shop the Shore Ah, the South Coast! There must be something in the water as Norfolk County is booming with creatives with stunning creations to share. Shop the Shore (formally Festival by the Bay) is a twice a year initiative that showcases the local artisans and crafters in the Long Point communities. Taking place in the spring and fall, this self-guided tour celebrates the creativity and retail businesses throughout Port Rowan, St. Williams and Long Point. Not just a shopping excursion, Shop the Shore also includes entertainment, sampling and special offers for those attending.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 35
ARTIST STUDIO TOURS Keep your eye out throughout the year for artist studio tours. These self-guided tours offer the unique and rare opportunity to shop directly from the studios of artists who may not be open to the public. Some major tours to look for are the Norfolk Studio Tour, the Brant Studio Tour and the Backroads Artisan Tour. Most tours take place over one or two days, giving enough time to enjoy an artfully inspired road trip into the studios and homes of the most creative locals around. The most popular time of year for studio tours is fall, but some pop up around the winter holidays!
Downtown Charm There’s a certain enchanting feeling about strolling through historic small town cores with flurries dancing through the air. An echo of the past quietly hums in the background as you take in the architecture and the landmarks that have lasted through centuries. Skipping through the shops one by one you get a sense of how mercantile life once was and how it’s making a triumphant return. Starting along the waters of the Grand River, we start in the prettiest little town in Canada – Paris. The signature cobblestone buildings house cute shops like Piper & Oak. This delightful store is filled with perfect little gifts for those who like a taste of something distinctly different in home décor. If you’re looking for your next great read, Green Heron Books is a charming bookstore filled with new and previously-owned
36 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Left Winter painting by Paris Artist Holly O hollyo.ca
Downtown Brantford
books to fit your fancy. After a full day of shopping, grab a table at Stillwaters where the most breathtaking views accompany you as you eat some of the finest dishes they have to offer, like a delectable local cheese plate. Travelling along the Grand, we are greeted by Haldimand County. Much of Haldimand is sprinkled with cute little downtown cores. These little villages house some of the greatest small stores and historic buildings, filled with goods to tickle your fancy! Known for its seasonal Farmer’s Market that recently wrapped up its 125th year, Hagersville has a few little shops worth checking out all year long. Sweet Escapes Candles & Gift Shop is one of them. They specialize in gloriously scented, hand-poured, high quality candles but they offer so much more. Their creative body care line includes items like bath bombs, bubble cupcakes and handmade soaps that smell utterly delightful, it’s hard to pick just one! If you’re feeling parched after shopping, just head down the street to Sweet Greens and refuel yourself with one of their fantastic fresh pressed juices. Along Ontario’s South Coast is Port Rowan. This lovely harbour town is located adjacent to Long Point. The lush ecosystem paired with small town hospitality makes this sweet small town an ideal place to do some downtown exploring. With a strong core of shops, you can easily spend a full day here. From Star Gate General to Shear Creations Gift Shoppe, you will find rustic and comforting gifts as well as fabulous fashions and décor. You’ll be sure to work up an appetite and when you do, head over to the Country Fork. Their local, hearty homemade meals will fill your tummy and warm your heart.
Decor & More
Country cottage and shabby chic are all the rage right now! Of course we always knew that living that small town lifestyle was trendy. So many cute little local shops are popping up, all with great collections of antique, authentic and one of a kind items that fit perfectly into your everyday life. Check out these lovely items from shops right in our backyard. 1 2
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1 Lakeside Decor, Port Rowan. Quality outdoor poly furniture, unique gifts, decor+ 2 Our counties are rich in antique shops that offer many nostalgic treasures of yesteryear 3 Piper & Oak, Paris. Home decor, furniture, gifts+ 4 Wood + Wool Home DĂŠcor and Furnishings, Brantford thedesigncenter.ca The latest in designer furniture and interior decor 5 Artiques, Hagersville. Home decor, India imports, one of a kind furniture, lighting, sculpture, art+ 6 Haldimand House, Caledonia haldimandhouse.com Antiques, bath and body, candles, gifts, fashion, jewellery, decor+ 7 studio50, Paris studio50.ca A Canadian-Nordic furniture and homeware artisan studio 8 Brushed, Waterford brusheddesigns.ca Specializing in custom restyling of vintage and retro furnishings using paint finishes + classes. Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 37
Treat Yourself
Pampering yourself never looked so good! It’s never been easier to spoil yourself with lavish, local goods. Take a day trip down your favourite country road and spend a day just wandering around a few of your favourite small towns. Whether you’re looking for something comfy and cozy or something prim and proper, you’ll never know what treasures you’ll find down the backroads. 3 2
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1 LOKA, Port Dover LokaStudio.etsy.com Handmade rustic, recycled and custom leather handbags, jewelry+ 2 Cashmere & Cobwebs, Port Dover and Port Rowan cashmereandcobwebs.com Ladies’ fashions, jewelry, accessories, home decor+ 3 Paris Jewellers, Paris parisjewellerscanada.com Custom work, repairs, engraving, fine jewelry, home décor+ 4 Shear Creations Gift Shoppe, Port Rowan. Ladies fashion home decor, Reallite candles+ 5 Bottoms Up Clothing Boutique, Paris bottomsupboutique.com Super soft leggings with attitude! 6 13 Reasons, Port Dover. A Canadian life and style store 7 Again our counties are spoilt for choice with antique shops that offer many treasures to spoil 8 Candela Interiors, Brantford candelasoapco.com A Barn boutique with ever changing decor+ products 9 Yoga Jeans at Trends on Grand, Paris 10 Wabi Sabi Crystals, Paris wabisabicrystals.com Crystals, jewelry, home decor, body care+ 38 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Hidden Gems Sometimes the thrill is in the chase. There are often hidden gems located in homes, studios, and online. These places are goldmines for some of the most interesting, intriguing and inspiring local goods. Not always easy to find, most of us stumble upon them by chance and they become our new favourite places to shop and to gift others. These next few places are worth the hunt! Looking for something both beautiful and practical? Nature by Design creates stunning bird feeder wreaths that you can hang wherever you please outdoors. These meticulously handmade creations not only look remarkable and make quite the statement but they do as their name suggests – feed the local birds and wildlife! Cardinals, blue jays, nut hatches, juncos and chickadees flock to these wreaths, making them a great entertainment piece to watch from indoors with your warm cup of tea any time of day. Ruth Fleming is the florist behind these wreaths and she also creates other floral masterpieces that exude beauty both indoors and out. Find her at local studio shows and on Facebook at Nature by Design. Hopefully some of these locally sourced shops have inspired you, but if not the next one surely will. BEinspired is a little shop tucked away in Caledonia’s downtown. Blink and you’ll miss it, it’s worth it if you spot the
The Hounds of Erie Winery is Canada’s first virtual winery/cidery specializing in hand crafted very small batch premium wines and ciders
Maus Park, Online Gallery mausparkantiques.ca
newly painted teal door. This jewel isn’t just the handy work of one artist, but a soulful little community that encourages partnerships with local artisans and holistic practitioners. You can attend workshops, guided mediations and shop for natural goodies like teas, soaps, jewellery and décor. It’s impossible to leave this shop without a smile on your face. Open Wednesday through Saturday with limited hours, BEinspired inspires you to be more mindful and take a few moments out of your day to just relax. Maybe you’re on the prowl for the purrfect gift for that special cat lover in your life. Kitties and Cabernet has you covered. Originally from Norfolk County, Kitties and Cabernet was created to offer handmade goods with a focus on cats and wine, because wine not? What’s even more heartwarming is that 10% of their proceeds go to various cat and animal shelters such as Purrfect Companions of Norfolk. You can find Kitties and Cabernet at various craft markets and shops around Southern Ontario or at kittiesandcabernet.com
EMERGING FOOD AND WINE There’s nothing quite like a seasonal spirit and a bite to eat after a day of shopping. Why not discover some local eats! Villa Nova Estate Winery has a delightful assortment of red, white and dessert wines to tantalize your taste buds. They also offer their premium cider, Saucy Cider, which comes in both hard apple and a Bartlett pear version. Open Friday through Sunday. Needing a little nosh throughout your travels? Make sure to stop by Trish’s Bakery Café in Port Dover. With an all gluten free menu, everything from the baked goods to their pierogi are made with only the best gluten free ingredients. Every single menu item is so delectably delicious you won’t be able to choose which goodies you want to take with you!
houndsoferiewinery.com Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 39
Sociable Kitchen & Tavern 40 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Local artist, Louise Jessup uses her love for design and creating to bring local neighbourhoods to life in her typographic neighbourhood, county, and country maps. They can be also purchased on etsy. com/shop/AllOverTheMapStudios
Our totally insider, Town-by-town, hidden-gem-by-hidden-gem, guide to what’s new, hot, and legendary in THe TOWN OF BRANTFORD. All the stuff you absolutely must eat, do, buy and indulge in to make the most of your time off the sofa and loving our county! Written & Photographed by Jay Perry
Whenever I set out on my adventures to explore these small towns, it is the mystery of the unknown that builds excitement and heightens my anticipation as to what hidden treasures I might stumble upon. Enter Brantford, Ontario. Actually a city with a population of 97,496, as per a 2016 census. Growing up, I only knew it for one thing, a place where I went to play hockey occasionally. I have not laced up may skates for many years and haven’t had a chance
to stop there since. Lucky for me, Live Small Town Magazine asked me to explore her for our Winter issue! What I found was that Brantford truly is a gem with so many hidden corners and nuances. So here we go, it’s another Small Town Sunday tour — The Brantford Edition. When searching online for “things to do in Brantford”, one of the top searches was The Woodland Cultural Centre. Established in October 1972 with the guidance of the Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians after the closure of the Mohawk Institute Residential School. Their original
focus was to collect research and artifacts to develop a library and museum collection. As I get older I find myself more interested in history and the stories that come with finding ancient artifacts. My hope in visiting The Woodland Cultural Centre was to explore a culture I was only somewhat exposed to in elementary school. What I got out of it was incredibly powerful, and something I feel every Canadian needs to be educated on. It started with a museum tour. There were tonnes of the artifacts and stories that I had been hoping for but it was the stories
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 41
The Woodland Cultural Centre
of the residential school that really stuck with me. I learned of how our Canadian government re-homed our First Nations children in these schools and the terrible tales of how they were treated. It was a real eye opening experience. The staff were all so accommodating and they were a pleasure to spend time with. Unfortunately I only have a few paragraphs in this article because I could write a book on what I learned. If you are interested in learning more about our Canadian roots be sure to visit The Woodland Cultural Centre when making your next trip to Brantford. There was no easy transition to wherever I was headed next but after this educational tour, it was time to feed the beast and take care of my hunger. A short drive away I settled on Sociable Kitchen & Tavern and I am not gonna lie, I just spotted the first sign of food and stopped. I entered the restaurant through their re-purposed cargo container, was pleasantly greeted by the hostess and found a phenomenally unique interior. I ordered the Taco Trio. A fish taco, chicken taco, brisket barbacoa taco, 42 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
with cilantro, lime, Cholula hot sauce served with fresh-cut Ontario russet fries. And of course, an ice cold pint of Citranatti Bengal — a session IPA from the local Mash Paddle Brewing Co. The craft beer was cold, crisp, and quite amazing. It definitely hit the spot and the Taco Trio was beyond great! The general manager, Tami Emuss, put it best to me; Sociable Kitchen + Tavern was born from an enthusiasm
towards craftsmanship, community, and sustainability. I can definitely agree that they have come up with a winning combination! To encourage digestion and since I had never ventured into downtown Brantford, I decided to go for a quick stroll. The architecture was something I didn’t expect. You could tell this was a city that believes in preserving the history behind these structures and if the history could talk, the stories would be grand. Next I had to stop and pay homage to a big part of my youth, and a legend. Canadians can’t even think of Brantford without thinking about the individual who put it on the map. The iconic, Wayne Gretzky! He was born and raised in this fine town and it had been twenty plus years since my last visit to The Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre where I had score a goal or two and it had expanded immensely since. The facility, now boasts four ice rinks, pools, a 150 ft water slide, gymnasium, fitness centre and so much more. I spotted people of all ages coming into the centre. Some aimed
Crossroads Antique Market
Sociable Kitchen & Tavern
for exercise, while others ventured to the Brantford sports hall of fame exhibition. Although slightly focused on Wayne, it glorifies the accomplishments of numerous individuals from the city. Even if you aren’t into hockey, you will find something fascinating about this place. It was inspiring to see how the Gretzky family has brought an entire community together through sport. I mean, Wayne’s father Walter even has his own parking spot! Most readers don’t know this, but before photography, I actually made my living as a musician. Playing in a rock band, I got to see the world while having a guitar strapped to my body every night. Sadly, time doesn’t allow for me to pick up my old axe that much, but I do still enjoy visiting music stores to check out the latest gear and reminisce. I have noticed a common theme of small town music
stores versus big city stores is that the staff seem much more friendlier and knowledgeable in the smaller towns, but traditionally, the big city store tends to have more of a selection and always carries the high end brands. None the less, I wanted to check out Pat Alonzo Music Shop. Before even speaking with any of the staff, I was shocked by the sheer size of the store. I wondered if I had made a wrong turn and ended up in one of those big city stores by accident. I browsed around to find that they carried every single brand I was looking for. From gear for beginners to high end gear for pros. This is a quality shop geared to all musicians. No Small Town Sundays adventure is complete without tracking down some sort of antique store and with a quick Google search, I was en route to Crossroads Antique Market. With over
90 vendors, Crossroads was somewhat of a hidden gem to me. Although Brantford is a tad bigger than some of the small towns I’ve featured before, I wasn’t expecting it to have an antique market where the product would rival any other I’ve been in before. If you are a collector or hobbyist, make sure your pockets are filled with money because I promise that you will want to take everything home. But make sure to carve out a least an hour because this place was massive! Moving on to more eating! It does seem to be the one theme that is a constant from magazine to magazine... and in my life. I love to eat and Brantford does not disappoint! I was given a tip about a place off the beaten path. A place that my friend had thought would be right up my alley. That place? Bell City Brewing
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Pat Alonzo Music Shop 44 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Bell City Brewing Co.
Co. Yes, more craft beer and food, which turns out was exactly what I was looking for. Dennis Marijan greeted me upon entering and took me on a tour of the brewery while Jeff, the bartender/cook/rad dude, prepared a flight of beers for me to sample. I learned about the science involved in the beer brewing process and soon discovered that Dennis was insanely passionate about business, beer, and Brantford. He told me how he identified the need in the city to
bring a craft brewery, pair it with a resto and offer the community the ultimate beer experience. I’ve always been jealous of people who partake in winery tours. Seems like fun but wine and myself don’t really get along. Southwestern Ontario’s growing Craft Brew scene sure is opening up a lot of possibilities. So how were the four beers? Amazing! It’s still a toss up as to which one was my favourite. I wasn’t surprised. From the way everything looked inside, to the passion of the owner, I wasn’t shocked that this beer was going to taste so unreal because it was extremely evident of the care and attention to detail that went into every aspect of this brewery. As for food... I ordered the Flat Bread Italiano. A toasted flat bread topped with prosciutto, cured Italian salami, roasted vegetables and provolone. Be sure to ask about their secret menus as a bit of intrigue and mystery never hurt. But shhhhh!
Bell City successfully combines a brewery, restaurant, and beer store all in one location. You can go in for a pint and a bite to eat, or just pop by to pick up some of their ice cold beer to take home. Or get wild and take home a Growler filled with your favourite selection and when finished, bring it back to be filled up with something new. I had a great time here and I know I will be back soon with some beer drinking friends. So, Brantford, who wants to join us for a pint? Well, well Brantford. So nice to meet you. You certainly have a new admirer in me. I now fully understands why people are currently, on mass opening businesses and relocating their entire families here. Places like the few I visited today are what I believe other cities need to remain feeling small town. Places where people can go to enjoy each others company, learn about their combined history, share in common and diverse interests and be a part of a community that makes them feel welcomed. Again, please go and explore because there was no way I could fully do Brantford justice within the pages of this article.
If you enjoyed this piece and wish to see live videos while I’m adventuring into these small towns, then follow me on Instagram at @jayperry for behind the scenes look at what is going on. But more importantly, where should I head to next?
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Deep Roots
Founded in 2010, the Great Canadian Roadshow makes it way across Canada and in recent years has visited Asia and Europe as well. People are always invited to attend the free event, and bring their collectibles and antiques along with them to be evaluated. This past November, lured by Norfolk’s long history, the road show visited Simcoe for a five-day stop at the Best Western Little River Inn. There were no shortage of treasures and a wide variety of collectibles. All and all it’s a great success! greatcanadianroadshow.com
As our nation spends the year celebrating its historic 150-year-Anniversary, we should all take a moment to reflect on the numerous stories, places, memories and people that have truly made us one of the greatest places on earth to call home. Each of our communities, counties and towns have contributed their own unique piece to the tapestry that can collectively be called Canada; and there is no better way to chart a course towards the future, than by glancing back to honor the past.
PHOTO By Annie Spratt
Living History
Runners take their places along the starting line at King Street, west of James, for the 1910 Herald Around the Bay Road Race.
Undisputed
The story of Canada’s first great athlete. Why you’ve probably never heard of him. And why we should all remember him. BY Tim Zwart There are very few of us who are fortunate enough to earn the label of icon in our lifetimes. They come around once in a generation, and fundamentally change the way we look at life, athletics, science or literature. Typically, they are the immortalized few in our society, those whose likenesses adjourn currency, monuments, plaques and statues, across this land we call home. Rarely do they go unnoticed or under appreciated, and when they do, it is our job as a society to pick them up, dust them off, and put them back up on the pedestal where they belong. Tom Longboat is one of
those people. Never heard of him? Sadly, you’re not alone. The pride of Six Nations Territory in Brantford, ON, Longboat was Canada’s first sporting superstar, and the finest long-distance runner in the world in the early 1900s. Longboat started his running career in 1905, and by 1907 he became the first (and only), First Nations athlete to win the prestigious Boston Marathon... a full 5 minutes faster than the previous ten winners of the event! He was an Olympian the very next year, and after turning pro in 1909, he staved off fierce international competition to win the Professional Championship of the World, at
the famed Madison Square Garden. Unfortunately, at the height of his career, duty to his country came calling, and he traded in his racing spikes for combat boots, serving as a message runner for the Canadian Armed Forces during WWI. He invented the idea of “rest days” during training, has been named to the Canadian Sports HOF, the Ontario Sports HOF, and had the Tom Longboat Awards named in his honour, annually honouring both male and female First Nations athletes
and their achievements. In the litany of great Canadian athletes, most often think of names like Gretzky, Orr, Nash, Fox and Weir; the best that their professions had to offer. And Tom Longboat belongs right up there in that class, to take his place on the proverbial Mount Rushmore of Canadian sporting excellence.
HIGHLIGHTED MUSEUMS Woodland Cultural Centre woodland-centre.on.ca, Brant Historical Society brantmuseum.ca, Canadian Military Heritage Museum canadianmilitaryheritagemuseum.ca, Haldimand County Museum & Archives haldimandcounty.on.ca, No. 6 RCAF Dunnville Museum rcafmuseum.org, Eva Brook Donly Museum norfolklore.com, Paris Museum & Historical Society theparismuseum.com Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 47
Aging Gracefully
Please feel free to reach out and let us know about other special folks, businesses, and organizations that are aging gracefully within your community!
History is all around us, and sometimes it pops up in some of the most unlikely of places. Have you ever been in your favourite local spot, looked around at the charming atmosphere surrounding you and thought to yourself: I wonder how long they’ve been here? As a writer and history buff, stumbling across a great story can be exhilarating. But sharing that story, conveying the emotions I felt and invoking them in others, is where the real excitement and sense of satisfaction lies. The following are three of my favourite examples for the latest instalment of our Aging Gracefully series. Backus Woods
Walsingham Fairy-tales would have you believing that going over a river and through the woods would be the preferred way to get to your grandmother’s house; however to the residents of Norfolk Coun-
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ty and visitors to Backus Woods, it’s simply a great way to enjoy some scenery and history. Just as Central Park in NYC is universally cherished and beloved by the surrounding area, so too have the Backus Woods been a hub of appreciation, love and conservationism since the late 1790s. The best remaining example of the Carolinian Life Zone in Ontario, the woods boast some of the oldest living trees in the province, such as the infamous Black Gum variety that could be dated back as far as 1534! Tulip trees—the tallest growing tree east of the Rockies—shoot upwards into the dense forest canopy as well, providing a breathtaking and majestic companion to local maples, pines and oaks. Peaceful and serene, the woods are also home to 25% of Canada’s at-risk species, and is teaming with wildlife. On any visit, you are liable to hear a warbler, witness a salamander enjoying his swampland, or see a woodland vole scurry by. Trails are open year round, visit natureconservancy.ca to learn more!
TOP, LEFT PHOTO Courtesy ONTARIO TOURISM
In this fast-paced age of instant gratification, it’s often easy to overlook and under appreciate the value of a hard day’s work. Sometimes the best results come from patience, process and purpose; after all, good things come to those who wait. BY Tim Zwart
No. 6 RCAF Dunnville Museum
Dunnville rcafmuseum.org Rarely is our heritage, history and patriotism as Canadians more symbolic than with the collective branches of our armed services. And if you want to know what’s it like for an entire nation to live on “small town” values and principles, then the Dunnville Museum is the place for you. Relearn, revisit, and reappreciate the people, places and events that made us what we are today through countless exhibits, artifacts, documents, and imagery. Get a hands-on feel for what it was like for Canadian, Australian and British fighter pilots to train for WWII from 1940-1944, as you browse through a former airfield that once housed five hangars and three double-runways onsite. Unfortunately, most of these buildings were taken down after the war, and until 1999, the property was used to raise turkeys! But three noble men (Russ Cameron, Vic Powell and Dan Silverthorne), knew a bastion of history when they saw one, and purchased the site with the goal of rejuvenating it and turning it back into a cultural treasure. Their dedication, hard work and financial support paid off, and in 2003, the museum was born. Now open to tour every Tuesday from 9am-1pm, or you can call 905-701-7223 to book an appointment.
Her Majesty’s Royal Chapel of The Mohawks
Brantford mohawkchapel.ca If you’re a fan of history, then you know the opportunities to visit the oldest of anything are exceedingly rare, and often come at a great cost and distance. To witness one of history’s landmarks is rare; and to discover one in your own backyard even more so. Such is the case with Her Majesty’s Royal Chapel of The Mohawks, the oldest surviving church in Ontario. Originally built by The Crown in 1785, the chapel was gifted to the First Nations tribes for their support of the British during the American Revolution, and is the only chapel in North America located on native land. A journey within its walls is like a journey through time, with historic relics, materials and markers prevalent throughout. Though it has undergone many updates and additions, the soul of the church is very much alive today, offering Sunday service in the summer months, a variety of musical and cultural events, personal tours, and can even be rented as a wedding chapel! They’re open Tuesday through Sunday, May 21 to September 5th, from 10am to 4pm, for an admission price of only $5 per person. Call 519-758-5444 to book your tour today, or email at jjamieson@mohawkchapel.ca Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 49
Heirlooms & Antiques
Let’s be friends! We are not a registered charity; we are a community of friends working together to restore the magic of Christmas for families in need and over the last 7 years we have raised $65,465.57 and provided 786 children with positive Christmas memories!
Looking to spend a day antique hunting? Need to find that perfect period piece to enhance your home? Take a drive down our country roads, stopping at flea markets and local shops to search for treasures then pop into one of our quaint eateries for some local fare... From east to west and north to south here are some of our favourite places. Alfred Street Nostalgia
97 Alfred St, Brantford Caresa Antiques
1182 Windham Rd 9, Windham Centre CJ’s Antiques & Refinishing
4080 Hwy. 24, Vanessa cjsantiques.ca Classic Vault Emporium
12 Main St, S, St George Courtland Antique
Warehouse By appointment courtlandantiquewarehouse.com Courtland Treasures
283 Main St, Courtland Crossroads Antique Market
1146 Colborne St E, Brantford Haldimand House Marketplace
22 Argyle St S, Caledonia haldimandhouse.com Maus Park Antiques
289 Pinehurst Rd, Paris mausparkantiques.ca Nice Old Stuff
2037 Main St N, Jarvis niceoldstuff.ca One of a Kind Antiques & Collectibles
97 Wilson St, Woodstock oneofakindantiquemall.com Paris Road Antiques
548 Paris Rd, Paris parisroadantiques.blogspot.com Ryerson Scully
35 Chatham St, Brantford Tillsonburg Antiques Plus
6 Old Vienna Rd, Tillsonburg
friendswithhearts.com
Waterford Antique Market
80 B Alice St, Waterford waterfordantiquemarket.com Webster R Antiques
1146 Colborne St, E, Brantford 50 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
MARC DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY
marcdouglas.ca
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Arts & CULTURE
Inspiring Minds
Arts and culture are an important resource in our path to building stronger connections with the present and the past. Serving to document and preserve stories and ensure that history is shared. They beautify public spaces, help forge relationships where there is diversity and become stewards of strength in community. At Live Small Town, we love to promote local participation and bonds. We believe one of the best ways to engage is through the arts.
PHOTOGRAPHY by David Jordan Williams
Legendary Canadian musician, songwriter, film composer, producer, actor and author, Robbie Robertson, best known for his work as lead guitarist and primary songwriter for The Band, became the first recipient of a Six Nations of the Grand River Lifetime Achievement Award this past October and was presented a beautiful pot by local artist Steve Smith of Talking Earth Pottery. His mother, Rose Marie Chrysler, a Cayuga and Mohawk woman, was raised on the Six Nations of the Grand River and would bring her son often to visit family. It was here that he was mentored by his musical family. robbie-robertson.com
Telling Stories Jonathan loves watching YouTube videos, snowboarding and extreme adventures. Layne loves reading, writing, wine, her overalls and baking cookies-she’s used the same recipe for her chocolate chip cookies since she was 8. They both love travel, ultimate frisbee, date nights, homemade food, and live music. But most of all they love, love, love photography and videography. Both of them believe in incorporating excellence in all that they do, in God, and in lifelong friendships. Believing that we all can leave the world a better place and that love wins over everything. Besides that, they are true story tellers and with over ten years of professional photography and videography experience, they are committed to documenting stories with creativity and quality. Their studio is on Brant Avenue, in Brantford, stop by for a glass of wine and share your story with them. jonoandlaynie.com
ADD Music Wellness Brant County/Cambridge addmusicwellness.com Music has long been recognized for healing and as a certified music therapist, musician, and entrepreneur, Amy Di Nino is one of few to use music therapy with people who are deafblind in association with Canadian Deafblind Association in Paris. Music activates areas of the brain’s memory, emotions, syntax and language.
Ken Anger Dunnville, 1905-1961 Decoys are often viewed as an important form of North American folk art and one of Canada’s most sought after carvers was Haldimand’s own, Ken Anger. He could carve anything masterfully with ease but it was Anger’s detailed surface carving that gained him his title as “rasp master.” He covered the textured surfaces with subtle colouration.
Little Eagle Feather Drum Group Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation This is a beautiful tradition of the MNCFN male youth Celebrating the Great Spirit and the beating of Mother Earth’s heart denoting courage, strength, and a spiritual quality that exists in every soul present and carries up to the Great Spirit the messages, prayers, gratefulness and joys of the peoples.
Music from Windecker Road Films windeckerroadfilms.com A documentary series about the music of Southern Ontario is being produced and funded by local filmmaker, Graeme Bachiu. It’s focus is on talent from outside the GTA in a relaxed rural setting and each episode will weave performance and an interview on a single topic into a compelling film filled with great music!
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Not much for company but Mr. Smeags is excellent at finding comfy spots!
This wee gal, Everleigh Raine, is also keen on a midday snooze or two!
Woolscapes Studio PHOTOs by Mark Staplehurst of janeandjury.com
Melanie Walsh
Jennifer Budd
Kit Julian
Laurie Spieker
Simcoe @RusticFarmhouseWares As a stay at home Mom of 5, I wanted to earn an income while always being available for my family. Now I get to do what I love! In 2011 I created Rustic Farmhouse on Facebook where I shared photos of our home and decorating style. That exposure landed us four mag features which brought even more followers who started asking what I had for sale. So I started selling items I made using antique textiles. There is something so comforting about things that have been around for a long time, they really create that farmhouse feel. We recently purchased an 1863 farmhouse, the perfect setting to sell my wares. Check Rustic Farmhous Wares for event dates.
Paris woolscapes.com I am a fibre artist and own the Woolscapes Studio and Gallery. Growing up with sheep on the family farm in Scotland gave me exposure to wool and an inspiring, dramatic landscape. Pen and ink excited me in the early days of my artistic career and moving to the creative and vibrant arts community of Paris, Ontario in 1988 offered me a supportive environment to hone my skills and sell my watercolour paintings. In 2009, I turned to wool as my medium. It was like going home for me. Making felted images of Scotland made my heart sing. Time evaporates when I am working in my light filled, attic studio surrounded by wool and thread. I am transported home.
Simcoe kitjulian.ca I moved to Norfolk in 1980 as part of the team that created the Lighthouse Festival Theatre as manager, fund developer, marketer, occasional costume designer and props builder. What began as a one season challenge continued for 7 years until I left for other opportunities in the county. Working full time in retirement as an artist, I challenge myself by using unconventional frames, constantly exploring and expanding ideas by integrating function, form and personal iconography in my images. I create, embellishes and integrate textile, paper, sewing haberdashery and natural materials in variety of styles in my art.
Dunnville Expat. grandriverglassworks.com A woodlot in downtown, 1960’s Dunnville offered a green playground and leafy sanctuary for the neighbourhood children. Unless my nose was in a book, I could be found there. This hideaway sparked my love for trees, plants and life in all its woodsy forms. Thus, my glass art is based on close observations of nature. Stepping on a humble towpath, I seek the unnoticed and revel in closely examining the graphic grace found in our natural environment. I am celebrating 10 years owning and operating Grand River Glasswork this year. A lot has changed since building forts in the woods and the path to this moment has been rewarding.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 55
Events & Activities
The B Now Bag ColleCTioNs were created to symbolize “living in the moment”. The B Now Company is proud of all five of its brand new bag collections for you to B Now! Contact 519-442-4467 for a private showroom visit or check us out on Facebook at The B Now Company to watch for upcoming open houses and expo events! thebnowcompany.ca
THEATRE
B Now Compa N y
As live theater continues to grow in popularity, lovers of the performing arts across Canada have begun noticing an emerging trend: big cities aren’t the only places to find a good show. Small towns and local theatres are churning out quality performances, and their well-known theater companies, and impressive resumes mean a trip to the theatre is even closer than you realize! Backstage Capitol Theatre
93 King St, Delhi backstagecapitol.com Open year round, this unique and historic venue plays host to live performances of Celtic, Folk, Vintage Rock & Roll, and a host of other genres! Lighthouse Festival Theatre Corp
247 Main St, Port Dover lighthousetheatre.com The theatre is open all year round for a variety of events, including concerts, public meetings, community fund raisers, dance recitals, workshops, band rehearsals and classes. The Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts
88 Dalhousie St, Brantford sandersoncentre.ca A vintage, vaudeville and silent movie theatre opened in 1919, this local gem showcases plays, classical music, dance and more. With seating for 1,125 guests, it is also the home to the Brantford Symphony Orchestra. Simcoe Little Theatre
33 Talbot St N, Simcoe simcoelittletheatre.org Open for 71 years, this community theatre offers a grand selection of drama, comedy and classics. Waterford Old Town Hall
76 Main St S, Waterford oldtownhall.org A restored historic building that boasts a 180-seat auditorium, the Waterford provides our communities with cultural diversity as a music, artistic and theatrical production venue. 56 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
GALLERIES
Nothing boosts your own personal creativity more than visiting art galleries. Akin to osmosis, being around art and in the company of creative folks, makes you feel more creative! Our small town communities are rich in this talent, and there is no better way to experience it than to pop into one of these local showcases. Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant
20 Ava Rd, Brantford glenhyrst.ca Located in Glenhyrst Gardens, a beautifully landscaped sixteen-acre park on the banks of the Grand River, the gallery offers contemporary fine art exhibitions, guided tours, classes, lectures, events, and even an art rental service…not to mention their permanent collection of over 600 pieces! The Black Wall Art Gallery
3 Elm St, Unit 2, Paris theblackwallgallery.ca This gallery recently opened, and has quickly become the place in the community to shop for one-of-a-kind, Canadian pieces. Artists are featured in a variety of disciplines, including acrylics, oils, water colours, glass, metal, wood, pottery and mixed media.
david Maltby’s law office
Barrister, solicitor & Notary PuBlic specializing in family law, real estate, wills & estates.
david Maltby, B.sc., ll.B. emily Van looyen, h.B.a., J.d.
11 NelsoN st, BraNtford, PhoNe 519-753-4118 faX 519-753-2596 djmaltbylawoffice@gmail.com
The Oak Gallery
313 Main St, Port Dover theoakgallery.com This new gallery offers the work of both local artists and those from afar, showcasing metal, wax, acrylic, glass, ceramic, wood, watercolour, oil and ink artistic creations.
Quality Outdoor Poly Resin Furniture. Outdoor & Indoor Area Rugs. Home Decor. Outdoor & Indoor Metal Art. Garden Decor. Unique Gifts & So Much More.
Two Turtles Iroquois Fine Art Gallery
Brant County Hwy 54, Ohsweken twoturtle.ca This modest gallery brings you the best of Iroquois culture and symbolism, celebrating nature in the form of original paintings, soapstone sculptures, limited edition acrylic prints, Giclée prints and lithographs. If you have an artistic idea or passion, let us know! At Live Small Town, community participation is not only welcomed, it is desired. Help us stay in touch with new ventures and old, change makers and folks that help build us up. kate@livesmalltownmag.ca
Custom Restyled Vintage FuRnituRe & Home aCCents FoR Home & liFe.
Pretty in paint
1019 Bay Street, Port Rowan 289-407-3008 dlakesidedecor@gmail.com
brusheddesigns.ca 30 Main St. S. Waterford 519-222-3505
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 57
Arts & Culture MUSIC VENUES
• Is Everyone Canoeing Without Me? • Why’d they put Drake in a wheelchair? • How do you get #JustinTrudeauHair? Available from your favourite bookseller
dundurnpress
@dundurnpress
dundurn.com
In each issue, Live Small Town will highlight a few of the diverse entertainment venues that our counties offer, and what makes each one unique and worth attending. New shows and events are being added all the time, so be sure to check your local listings and news sources for updates, and spread the word! The DT Concert Series
97 Grand River St N, Paris dtconcertseries.com This seven-part music series housed in the historic Dominion Telegraph Event Centre in downtown Paris, Ontario, is presented by Arlington Hotel and Noisemaker Management. It is an intimate venue, offering an up-close-and-personal musical experience with some of Canada’s most talented live performers. Brando’s on Market
Stress does not just go away...it accumulates. Make hot stone massage therapy a regular part of your personal health plan.
S A L E S R E P R E S E N TAT I V E
Matt Shellington
CONTACT PATRICIA HOWDEN PORT RYERSE 226-206-1372
58 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
135 Market St, Brantford brandos.ca When the sun goes down on Market Street, the party is not far behind and you’ll find festivities aplenty every night. A hot spot for local bands and talent, including rock, funk, soul, blues and live DJs every week, you can tell right away this isn’t your average bar! David’s Restaurant
168 New Lakeshore Rd, Port Dover davidsportdover.com Every weekend this beautiful, waterfront venue pairs live music with the best martini and wine selection around, adding a delicious menu that boasts the bounty and spoils of Norfolk County. Flyers Bakery and Cafe
515 Park Road North Brantford, ON N3R 7K8 BUS: 519-756-8111 DIRECT: 519-717-7038 mattshellington@gmail.com
144 Queen St, Dunnville flyersindunnville.com/ Here at Flyers you’ll find a crazy combination of sweet treats, savoury soups, local history, art and concerts. Whether your jam is folk music, rock or jazz, there is always something to rock out to. They are also billed as one of our great breakfast joints, so come
for a visit, stay for the night, catch a show and enjoy our beautiful county for the day. You won’t regret it!
Brant, Haldimand & norfolk Community information dataBase
La Salette Historic Church and Hall
info-bhn.ca
88 LaSalette Rd, LaSalette lasalette.ca Nestled in the scenic rural hamlet of LaSalette Ontario, this magnificent Gothic Revival style church now acts as a community owned and operated venue for local concerts and theatre. Feel free to reach out to rent this location for your event, or check out their website for booked performances.
search for information on • Housing • Health Services • Children & Youth Services • Seniors’ Services • Home Care • Government Programs • Libraries • Recreation • Service Clubs • Mental Health Services • Counselling • Financial & Social Assistance • Disability Support Programs • Newcomer Services • Food Banks • Parenting & Family Programs • Employment Services • Transportation Services
Manny’s Place Live Entertainment
125 Stanley St unit #2, Brantford mannys-place.com Manny’s has all the elements of a great concert venue. A clean lounge setting, pub style seating with flat screen TV’s for the sports enthusiast, weekly events and live entertainment on a huge stage that is fully loaded for sound and lighting. OLG Casino Brantford
40 Icomm Drive, Brantford 519-752-5004 olgslotsandcasinos.ca Besides the obvious entertainment, there is always something going on at OLG Casino Brantford. From comedy, to Elvis tribute bands, to a wide array of current musical celebs, check out their web calendar for exciting lineups. Shared Harvest Community Farm & Educational Centre (and music)
834 North Shore Dr, Dunnville sharedharvestfarm.ca A certified organic vegetable farm that also is host to live music, music festival Turnip the Beets, harmonica retreats, music dinner nights and open mics. PLUS tons of workshops and educational opportunities for all ages. They focus on community support that focuses on working together to make a healthier, happier more engaging life for all.
InspIre Create MotIvate Kids & adult Classes Birthday parties Day camps
Whistling Gardens
698 Concession 3 Townsend, Wilsonville whistlinggardens.ca Truly a match made in heaven... Waterford Old Town Hall has teamed up with Whistling Gardens to offer some pretty signature concerts of Juno award winning talent, such as Sarah Harmer and Ron Sexsmith. More to come, so stay tuned.
518 Main Street, Port Dover
226-567-5500
308 Grand River St N, Paris • petvalu.com
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 59
NATURE CALLS
Out & About
Seasons are ever changing. The altering weather is a gentle reminder that all things end, but can begin anew. Search out the treasure trove of things to see and activities to do in our communities. The sky’s the limit when it comes to natural beauty and outdoor adventure, so grab your fishing rod, pack your sunscreen and dust off your hiking boots - the great outdoors are calling!
PHOTOGRAPHY Courtesy ONTARIO TOURISM
The Haldimand Chippewa Trail is a picturesque route that boasts the option of cross country skiing, cycling, dog sledding, equestrian access, geocaching, hiking, and snowshoeing. Connecting to the Hamilton Chippawa Trail at Haldibrook Road then running 2.7 km south along the old Georgia-Pacific rail line close to Caledonia. You are also likely to catch a glimpse of a lion or a tiger as a portion of it runs alongside the Killman Zoo.
On the Map
The Big Chill The weather outside may be frightful, but you can still have a blast this winter.
Simcoe Christmas Panorama River of Lights Simcoe simcoepanorama.ca As a child I think the wonder of the annual Simcoe Panorama was something that brought the magic of Christmas alive. This year November 25th at 6pm marks the 59th time that the switch is thrown and thousands of lights decorating the park turns Simcoe into a winter wonderland. For years bus tours have brought visitors from all over Ontario to enjoy and celebrate the joy of Christmas
Port Dover New Years Day Polar Bear Dip Most of us would not think of running into a freezing lake but since 1983 New Years Day would not be the same in Port Dover were it not for these brave revelers. What started with a mere 200 spectators has now become so popular that over 2000 gather to cheers these merry makers on. Pails for donations to community causes are set out and the celebration continues. Hot Toddy anyone?
BY NANCY HOWDEN-COWELL
H
D AL
IMA
ND COUN
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LAKE ERIE
Frosty Fest Brantford Family Day in Ontario is taken very seriously and Brantford Winter Fest brings the celebration to Harmony Square with a midway, ice carving, skating, pony rides and a horse drawn trolley. Make this day special with some serious fun, knowing that the proceeds from this stay in the community and support things like The Kindness Project. An outreach program created by Freedom House.
New Years Eve Harmony Square Brantford Time Square New York City is not the only place that you can go to celebrate in style as you bid adieu to the old year and welcome in the New Year. Harmony Square in Brantford knows how to through a party as well. With live bands, food vendors and fireworks that light up the sky at midnight. Lace up the skates and take your final spin of the year and skate right into the New Year!
Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area Ayr grandriver.ca Snowshoeing the 7 kilometres of trails that wind through the Carolina Forest is just one of the winter programs offered at Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area. On weekends you can rent shoes or cross country skis to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether looking for time alone or a fun filled day with the kids, bundle up, fill the thermos with hot chocolate and head on out.
Richardson’s Farm and Market Dunnville richardsonsfarm.com Name one person who doesn’t love a big stack of pancakes dripping with melted butter and maple syrup flowing over the top and puddling on the plate. The only thing that could improve this is spending the day with the kids learning all about how this magical syrup comes to be. Education at its finest! Richardson’s Sugar Bush Tour opens Family Day Feb 20th and runs until April 1st.
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All a Glow
inter carnivals? Church bazaars? When publisher Kate Sharrow and I were conceptualizing wintery topics for the very article that you’re reading right now, she texted me, “The Simcoe lights are spectacular but I am wondering if there is a lot to mention,” so she continued to throw out other potential topics, like this one: “Ice fishing is fun - I know Norfolk has some (but for a gal, it is hard to come to terms with showing your bottom while peeing on ice).” OK, two things • I knew very little about the Simcoe lights so I was in no place at that time to explain there is heck of a lot to mention and more importantly; • Who taught Kate how to ice fish in the first place? With so much turmoil in our timelines right now, I decided not to pursue item 2. That left the Simcoe lights, which, as established, I knew very little about. 62 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
But what I have learned in research for this article has inspired me. And I would like nothing more, in this weird season of cold darkness, than to share that light of inspiration with you as a reward for reading this far down. What is Simcoe lights? Its official title is ‘Simcoe Christmas Panorama’ and sometimes ‘River of Lights’ gets tacked on to the end of that, too. So let’s just call it #SCPROL going forward because we’re going to need to
reconvene online and discuss this on an ongoing basis going forward. #SCPROL was founded based on a principle that we can all identify with as this special time of year unfolds before us. It’s a shared sentiment we all find inside ourselves, no matter how hard we fight it! It’s the only true platitude. It should appear on more gravestones. It is: Ugh, I can’t even. You see, circa 1957, the Simcoe Christmas Parade was a total washout.
Simcoe Christmas Panorama River of Lights Photos courtesy of norfolktourism.ca
These Chilly Months are the season for decking the boughs & everything else with millions of twinkling lights. J.C. Villamere
Garbagey weather lead to low attendance, which lead to fed-up organizers. At the end of the parade route, those organizers were like, “Ugh, I can’t even. All this work and planning culminated in the humiliation of us parading without an audience? In the pouring rain? Imma gonna drive these floats off the end of a dock right now. Byeee!” And then probably a colleague was, like, “All the way to the dock? Ugh, I can’t even. Let’s just abandon the floats here in the park and go get some pints into us.” Okay, I may have taken some liberties there at the end but the fact remains: #SCPROL was born of an ill-fated Christmas parade after which the floats were parked and festooned with lights. It even says so on their website: “Years ago, the organizers of the town’s annual Santa Claus Parade, abandoned parade floats in Wellington Park after yet another wet
and miserable event. Together, they made a bold decision to try something new the following year. They dressed three new exhibits and the existing parade floats with lights and positioned them in the park for all to enjoy at their leisure. The Simcoe Christmas Panorama was born.” You can think of #SCPROL as a super-lit, stationery Christmas parade that you can visit and interact with on your own time. Santa arrives on an antique fire truck to help celebrate the festival, which attracts over 30,000 people annually, many who’ve been coming for years, even for generations. “Crowds will gather to sing carols,” the (charmingly out-of-date) #SCPROL website warns. It also boasts of Simcoe’s “small town hospitality” which some silly city folk might believe is just code for “slow service.” But it actually just is boasting about the relaxing atmosphere and charm that Simcoe has always been famous for. #SCPROL is expecting so many dads that its website offers a printable parking map. I’m going to see if they have a map of indoor bathroom locations so I can print it out for Kate.
Against our advise! The farmers Almanac has clearly Warned that Winter 2017-18 will be frosty and white. We advise Mass Hibernation... But if you are keen on the freeze, here are a few ideas to entertain
Ice Fishing Pinehurst Conservation Area near Paris, Old Cut Marina, R&R Outdoors in Port Rowan, Grangers Ice Fishing and Bayside Ice Fishing in St Williams all offer ice fishing when conditions allow. Go to the bathroom before you leave home, just in case.
NEBULA! Long Point Observatory offers star gazing tours in one of the darkest points in Southern Ontario #swoon! The experience includes a constellation show before you head into the dome to look through their 16” Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope to see planets, nebulas (as promised!) and distant galaxies.
Ski Along the Riverside Rotary Riverside Trail in Haldimand County, Caledonia. There’s no prettier place to wax your blades than at this 5.7 kilometre trail that runs alongside the Grand River. Think of all the smug Instagrams you’ll post! Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 63
Rites of passage
Passing The shared wisdom of the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation through to the generations of young & Old BY Kerstein Mallon
From the beginning of time, all creatures prepare for the winter months ahead by foraging, gathering, nesting, and frolicking in the crisp autumn sun. People have always practiced many harvest rituals and traditions that were until recently considered old fashioned, are returning to their rightful place at the helm of our communities. We seem to be aware that change is needed so we can rebuild indelible, self-sustaining societies and that it is a necessity to rekindle traditional ways. Old world customs are emerging in our modern world. The Mississauga of the New Credit First Nations recently hosted a traditional harvest gathering. Director of education, Amanda Sault and cultural and events coordinator, Caitlin La Forme were intent on developing a workshop to cultivate old
ways in today’s society. A welcomed sun warmed our faces as we gathered to learn how to live as our ancestors lived. Local teacher, Mark Sault, “The Keeper of Knowledge” has been working within the first nation’s communities sharing his wisdom for over 20 years. Mark and his wife Sal Nebenionquit (Summer Cloud) spend countless days preparing for these annual events. They fish. They hunt. They gather wild rice along the river banks. And they share. At the community centre, there were many work stations. At the first station, Indian corn that had been drying for a year was shucked and then over an open fire the corn and hard ash were boiled. Next a process called lyeing; the corn and ash were strained and transferred to a wash tub,
64 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
resembling a lake or stream. Then replaced over the flame to cook for another 2 hours. Finally, a variety of veggies and meat were added and the end result was a mouth-watering and revitalizing soup. At another station, Eric Sault and his daughter Dayna, prepared smoked venison, moose and pike in a birch branch smoke hut. The smoked pike’s, distinctive hickory flavour melted in our mouths and the smoky maple flavour in the moose meat added extra dimension to its tenderness. Just over the way, everyone gathered with birch bark baskets and shelled the husks off the wild rice. We watched as Mark prepared a delicious trail mix snack with popped wild rice and cranberries. He made traditional Indian bread with
cinnamon sugar. A treat rivalling some of the best baked goodies. These comforting delights were served hot with butter, homemade jams and a piping hot cup of Labrador leaf and Wintergreen tea. At every station, people were busy churning and dancing, shucking and chatting. Everyone was smiling. Nothing went to waste. There was plenty of food to share, as well as old tales and stories yet to happen. The objective was to teach people how to live off the land and by day’s end we were in rhythm with each other and the earth. Every tribe celebrates life. There are rituals, traditions and rites of passage shared through generations. Invaluable wisdom offered through action, repetition and conversation. Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation team host regular workshops. For events like this one visit mncfn.ca.
Documentary Lifestyle Photography
inspired by a wild imagination and documenting the intricacies that define daily life; celebrating the in-betweens, knowing that every moment counts Limited availability for Documentary Lifestyle Photo Sessions in 2017. Email info@olliandella.com to book your session today! olliandella.com Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. WINTER 2017 65
Setting Up Roots
Been around the world more times then I can count but I am glad to rest my head in small town community. BY Rob Lamothe I grew up in Southern California and lived in Los Angeles for 10 years before moving to Canada. After spending a decade in Hamilton, my wife and I (and our then-9-yr-old daughter) moved to Dunnville in 2005. The only disadvantage I saw when we moved here is that it is possible to be isolated from progressive ideas in a small town, but I’ve seen that change radically since 2005. Rural youth are more open-minded and inspired than ever, so that helps and we who are not-so-young are catching up. Interestingly, kids who grew up in Dunnville are moving back as adults, buying buildings, starting businesses that prioritize people and planet before profit. Young families are moving to our small town from cities. This means new perspectives and a fresh energy for change. Dunnville is actually becoming a ‘model’ of a vibrant rural community! Listing the advantages of living in a small town would re66 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
quire far more space then I have. Knowing your neighbours, going to get groceries and seeing 10 people you recognize and chat for a moment with, being godparents for the kids of the farmers who grow your food. There are daily opportunities to get to know people in a deeper way than you might in a bustling, crowded city. This also means people feel connected and will find ways to work together for the good of the community. There’s a whole essay to be written on this subject. From getting a skate park designed and built, to recent renovations and rededication of the Centennial Park Fountain (and updates to make the park truly accessible), to new walkways along the Grand River, to the new Farmers Market being built as we speak, to grass roots groups successfully petitioning Haldimand and Norfolk County Council’s to secure funds for preventative dental care (and, yes, you might well run into Council members at a local restaurant or backyard party), to organizing Dunnville’s first PRIDE event this past summer. Arts and culture, commerce and so much innovation. I could list many more community initiatives that are happening here, involving people of all ages and abilities. Things can get done in a small town. My two adult sons still live in Hamilton and my now-21-yrold daughter has moved back there as well. We love to visit them regularly, of course, for an adventurous dinner, art event or movie, but I can’t imagine ever leaving small town life.
tourism@brant.ca • brant.ca/tourism
@branttourism
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Long Point
Beach Club