FREE . June 2022
Supporting Local in Grey Highlands Since 2019
18TH ANNUAL
Markdale Cruise Night & Car Show Returns July 22, 2022 6pm - 9pm Page 12
www.hellocountry.ca
Ltd.
Learn how we make clean energy and medical isotopes at the Bruce Power Visitors’ Centre.
Wonder. Explore. Discover.
www.brucepower.com/visit 3394 BRUCE ROAD 20, NORTH OF TIVERTON. T: (519) 361-7777
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MASTHEAD FIAT LUX CONTRIBUTORS Roger Tumminieri, Publisher hellocountrymagazine@gmail.com Instagram: @hellocountrymagazine (416) 788-0716 Single Copy: $1.50 Annual Subscription: $54 Published Bi-Monthly by Fiat Lux Media www.fiatluxmedia.com All rights reserved Proudly Based In Flesherton, ON
Hiliary Breadner
www.hiliarybgraphics.com (Graphic Design)
Dave Meslin
www.teardown.build (Politics)
Robert Iantorno
www.robertiantorno.ca (Mind Over Motor)
Kevin Arthur Land
www.speakingvolumesbooks.ca (Arts & Culture)
Jason Todoroff www.jtlawyer.ca (Family Matters)
Jonathan Nhan
www.curateandupgrade.ca (Wellness)
Louella Martin
www.azurehighlandshomestead.com (Farm Life)
Jeff Wilson
www.jeffwilsonartist.yolasite.com (Illustration)
Cindy McQueen
www.wannawebdesign.com (History of Rural Internet)
Chelsea Bullock
www.lifedirections.ca (Life Directions)
Lorraine Irwin
www.puremusicgarlic.com (Life of a Garlic Farmer)
Kara Bowles
www.thornburyantiquemarket.com (Staycations)
Tyson Rier
www.hurontractor.com (Tractor Talk)
Michelle Patey
www.greyhighlandschamber.com (Chamber)
Eric Robertson
www.greycountyrealestate.com (Housing Update)
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Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
NEW IN MARKDALE!
JT
Jason Todoroff Barrister & Solicitor Services: • Family Law • Criminal Law •Notary Public
• Wills & Powers of Attorneys • Employment Law
7A Main Street East, Markdale, ON
Phone: 519.986.4494 Fax: 519.986.1246 jasontodoroff@gmail.com
www.jtlawyer.ca
www.hellocountry.ca
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE JUNE 2022 EDITION Thanks for joining us again this month as we kick off the summer. We’ve highlighted a few noteworthy events in this edition, including the Durham Homecoming and Markdale’s 18th Annual Cruise Night & Car Show hosted by the Rotaract Highlanders. We’re also featuring two New Businesses in Grey Highlands; Garage13 in Eugenia and Featherstone Family Farm in Priceville. Congratulations to Markdale’s Rick Byers who has been elected as the new MPP for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound. I’m also happy to report that we’ve now printed the Spring/Summer editions of Support Local Magazine. Check ‘em out at www.supportlocalmagazine.com. Thank you for reading, Roger “Papa Country” Tumminieri Publisher, Hello Country Magazine hellocountrymagazine@gmail.com www.hellocountry.ca (416) 788-0716
ROGER TUMMINIERI
Giant personalized
colouring sheets for kids! The perfect gift, or rainy day activity
@doodlers.ca www.doodlers.ca
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Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
HOUSING UPDATE JUNE 2022 QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS! Should I sell? Should I buy? Should I wait? Did I miss the hot market? The last couple of years have seen an extraordinary increase in property prices leaving many prospective buyers and sellers in a quandary; unsure of the right time to make a move. Although recent changes in the economy and policies have resulted in a slight shift in activity, it is still considered a Seller’s market. But even in this market, pricing is still a crucial factor. Understandably when you decide to sell your home you want the highest possible price yet, if your price is too high, you run the risk of deterring some buyers. If your price is too low (in hopes of multiple biddings) you raise questions about the condition of your home.
Look to a professional to help you find that optimal balance. The right real estate agent should be knowledgeable about the local market price, the current demand and inventory as well as being able to evaluate the condition of your property and how it affects the value. At Grey County Real Estate Inc., we analyse and weigh in all these factors. Our years of experience and know-how allow us to be your trusted advisor to ensure you get the best return on your investment. Still have questions? Contact us and we’ll gladly help you with whatever you need. Eric Robertson, Broker Grey County Real Estate Inc. Cell: (226) 668-7420 Office: (519) 986-2552
Family Farm Farm STORE OPEN ALL SUMMER LONG Fri - Sun 10AM- 5pm Specializing in Grass Fed & Finished Beef, Rhubarb, Squash & Seasonal Produce.
519.924.2270
305334 South Line A, Priceville ON @featherstone_family_farm @featherstonefamilyfarm Cash Only
www.hellocountry.ca
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TABLE OF CONTENTS JUNE 2022 Publisher’s Note
Welcome to our June Edition Page 6
Housing Update
From Grey County Real Estate Inc. Page 7
Foaling Around in Flesherton Oliver takes his First Steps Page 10
Cover Story
18th Annual Cruise Night & Car Show Page 12
Providing personal support services and nursing care for adults, seniors & children.
519.377.6834
greybrucehomecare.com dandm@greybrucehomecare.com
Staycations
Thornbury or Bust Page 13
Durham Homecoming Celebrating 150 Years Page 17
Outdoor Life
Season 2 of Canada’s Cast & Blast Podcast Page 22
TRACTOR TALK WITH TYSON RIER With summer now in full swing, many contractors and homeowners are gearing up for the busy season ahead. With our John Deere Mini Excavator line-up, we have a machine for every job, backed by the best parts and service team in the industry. It’s still no secrete that inventory supply is tight. At Huron Tractor, we like to encourage a proactive approach. Let’s have the conversation early to ensure the equipment is ready when the time comes. John Deere is continuing to offer unmatched ability at a competitive price. With many options available such as cabs, thumbs and a wide variety of other attachments we can equip a machine for every job. With the 2 year 2,000 hour warranty we can eliminate out-of-pocket expenses. Stop in and see why our John Deere Mini Excavator is the right machine for you. TYSON RIER, Salesman Huron Tractor - Chatsworth (226) 668-2063
TYSON RIER
COMPACT
AND VERSATILE COMPACT EXCAVATORS
With operating weights ranging from 1.7 to 6 metric tons, our mini diggers pack powerful might. From the 17G with its variable-width undercarriage and foldable blade for passing through tight entryways to the 60G with its standard climate-controlled cab, we have a model that is right for you.
CHATSWORTH | 802802 Grey Road 40 | (519) 794-2480
HuronTractor.com
www.hellocountry.ca
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FOALING AROUND IN FLESHERTON
WELCOME, OLIVER - THE NEWEST ADDITION TO HELLO COUNTRY FARM We are so pleased to welcome our first Foal, Oliver! He was 365 days in the making which, to be honest, was a cause of some anxiety for us. More so for my wife, who valiantly rose from her slumber daily at 3am for a month to check on Reign, Oliver’s Mama. “I’m so amazed by how beautiful he is,” explained my wife, Jessica, when I asked her for her thoughts on our first foaling experience. We’re both so proud of Reign and grateful for the smooth labour and healthy birth. “After preparing for a month to jump in and help with the labour if need be, Reign had gone and delivered a healthy foal all on her own! She’s proving to be a great mother,” Jessica said. The photo above was taken during Oliver’s first trip to the paddock - mere hours after
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being born. At the time of publishing, he is less than a week old and is already cantering about the paddock alongside his Mama. He’s jumping and bucking and having a grand old time. When I asked our three-year-old what his favourite part of having a baby horse is, he replied: “The legs.” :) Thank you to my wife for all the care she puts into our horses, goats, dogs, and twolegged animals. Something tells me this won’t be the last article about Oliver. We’d like to thank Dr. Fox from Markdale Veterinary Services for all her help. And so, a new adventure begins on Hello Country Farm in Flesherton. By: Roger Tumminieri
Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
LOCAL APPAREL AVAILABLE AT
Eugenia
Ceylon
Markdale
APPAREL COMPANY C E L E B R AT I N G O N TA R I O
w w w. a p p a re l c o. c a
COVER STORY CRUISE NIGHT & CAR SHOW
July 22, 6pm - 9pm
Downtown Mardale (Main Street West) Car Registration & Admission by Donation Food, Live Entertainment & More! highlandsrotaractclub@gmail.com (519) 477-0418 When Reuben McCallum calls, you answer. Or at least that’s what I say to myself. That’s exactly what happened as I was finishing off this edition and preparing to go to press - in between attending the Grey Highlands RAM Rodeo and managing my familial responsibilities, which consist primarily of cheering my wife on as she does all the heavy lifting. True story. “Reuben!” I yelled as I answered the phone. “What’s shakin’?” “Ah...,” he replied. Maybe that’s a city saying. I tried again... “How are you?” I asked. “Great,” he replied happily. Reuben’s one of the more positive fellows about town. And then the call dropped. Such is life talking on the phone while driving in Grey Highlands. Long story short, Reuben was pleased to report that the Rotaract Highlanders, of which he is a member, were going to be hosting the 18th Annual Cruise Night & Car Show in Markdale this July. “It’s my baby,” he said emphatically. “What’s the story,” I asked?
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“The car show is in its 18th year. Originally a Grey Highlands Chamber of Commerce event, Rotaract took over in 2019 just before COVID,” he said. “2019 was an amazing event, with approximately 220 cars (more didn’t register) and was very well attended. We took the Show online to try to continue the tradition but nothing beats the real thing. We are excited to get back to in-person community events!” In 2019, Rotaract split profits with the local food bank and were pleased to present a cheque for just over $1,300. This year, they look to give back to the essential workers. The goal is to support local first responders, OPP, EMS and GHFD charity organizations as a thank-you for the risk and personal care they took through the worst of the COVID pandemic over the last few years. “We hope to continue the tradition of the Car Show and build on it in the years ahead,” Reuben states. “We are thankful to the community for the amazing support and want to do a special shout-out to our LOCAL business partners that always show up to support us and our events. We can honestly say, we have never received a donation or door prize from the big online retailers but almost every downtown Grey Highlands business has shown up for us since we started in 2015. Support Local when you can, because local businesses support the community.” By: Roger Tumminieri
Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
STAYCATIONS THORNBURY OR BUST A Guide to the Antique Hunters’ Staycation
Planned your perfect local escape? We’ve all come to realize that staycations are the best vacations, and for anyone who loves antiques, Thornbury and Clarksburg provide wonderful reasons to visit the area. On Georgian Bay, these small towns welcome collectors and decorators to local antique shops while offering great local motel options for family, couple and girlfriend getaways as well as wonderful restaurants to suit everyone’s tastes. Let’s take a look!
Consider planning your next-door getaway to Thornbury and Clarksburg for August 13 and 14, to enjoy the return of the Thornbury Antique Show! This well-established event has a 30 year history. New promoters, Kara and Dan Bowles have been long standing dealers and are pleased to contribute to the ongoing efforts of all involved to create a well curated antique and vintage show. Located at the Beaver Valley Community Centre 10am - 5pm
Antique hunters’ destinations:
The rest & relaxation destination:
Danfield Antiques - An antique store in Clarksburg where people will be surprised by the items on offer: heirloom treasures passed down through families, furniture and decorative pieces for interesting interiors, and joyful Folk Art gems. According to their website, they have items that give context to Canadian history. Open Thursday to Sunday 11am - 4pm
Penny’s Motel - Inspired by the surroundings of the area with a 70’s vibe, the property was designed in a way that would promote adventure and relaxation. Each room in this recently renovated motel promotes a relaxed boutique atmosphere.
Clarksburg Antiques - A great antique shop with several rooms literally loaded from top to bottom with tons of treasures for everyone. A real antique hunter’s treat! Open on weekends only. Thornbury Antique Market - A multi-dealer venue offering a wide range of vintage antiques, unique gift ideas, art, jewellery and so much more! 15 dealers participate at this large antique mall. Open Wednesday to Sunday 10am - 5pm Loved you Madly - Check out this designer exchange and consignment boutique for a one-stop shop to find unique pieces of furniture, antiques and of course fashion. Open daily from 11am -5pm
The foodies’ destinations: Corner Cafe & Grill - Visit this local favourite for great food, service and ambiance at the main corner in Thornbury. The Bruce Wine Bar - The Bruce offers globally inspired, locally sourced cuisine in the heart of Thornbury. They specialize in Neapolitan style wood-fired pizza & handmade food with a focus on atmosphere and dietary restrictions. Thornbury Cidery & Brew House - Offers tasting flights of their popular Thornbury Cider or Thornbury Beer. Enjoy a sample in the sunshine on their expansive deck. Head to Thornbury for your next weekend adventure and you won’t be disappointed!
www.hellocountry.ca
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WHAT’S NEW GARAGE13 IN EUGENIA Meet Mandy Russell of Garage13. Like many, Mandy and her family have recently made the leap from city life to country living. They moved from the GTA and now reside in Kimberley. Leaving corporate life behind, Mandy is launching Garage13 which is located in the former Eugenia Emporium on Grey Road 13. They’d been exposed to Grey Highlands while skiing at Beaver Valley Ski Club and renting a local chalet. They fell in love with the area and, while atop Old Baldy last winter overlooking the Beaver Valley, it hit her: “Why don’t we just move here?” And so the seed was planted. Fast forward to now. Mandy’s opening the doors of her new passion project to showcase quality, locally designed and Canadian made products from Grey Highlands and throughout Southern and Central Ontario. She’s single-handedly creating opportunities for local artisans, as well as chefs and food producers, to take their businesses to the next level.
Visiting friends up in the Grey Highlands? Stop by Garage13 for a great selection of unique hostess gifts, soft serve, cool or hot refreshments and locally-made pastries! Tons of fun - all under one roof! By: Roger Tumminieri GARAGE13 194355 Grey Rd 13, Eugenia 1 (866) 504-8091 www.garage13.ca
FEATHERSTONE FAMILY FARM IN PRICEVILLE FEATHERSTONE FAMILY FARM 305334 South Line A, Priceville (519) 924-2270 Instagram: @featherstone_family_farm Facebook: @featherstonefamilyfarm
I had the pleasure of meeting Anthony and Elfriede Featherstone just prior to going to press for this edition on their farm near Priceville. They showed me around and I got to learn quite a bit about ethical, sustainable and regenerative farming practices - techniques they’ve employed on their farm for years. Join me in congratulating the Featherstones on the launch of their Family Farm Store. They’ll be open all summer long until Thanksgiving: Friday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm.
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The Featherstone Family Farm specializes in Grass Fed and Finished Beef, Rhubarb, Squash, and Seasonal Produce. They raise heritage, Old English Shorthorn cattle and farm the old-fashioned way. They don’t use pesticides, they don’t inoculate their cows, and they don’t take Debit :) Old-school family farming at its finest. By: Roger Tumminieri
Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
www.hellocountry.ca
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EVENTS GREY HIGHLANDS RAM RODEO
(photo credit: Norm Betts)
GREY HIGHLANDS MAYOR PAUL MCQUEEN ADDRESSES THE SOLD OUT CROWD AT THE 2022 GREY HIGHLANDS RAM RODEO HELD IN LATE MAY AT THE OSPREY COMMUNITY ARENA IN FEVERSHAM Another successful Grey Highlands RAM Rodeo took place on a mostly beautiful weekend in late May at the Osprey Community Centre in Feversham.
have been possible. The Feversham Kinsmen played a big role in the Rodeo’s success, so a special thank-you goes out to them, as well.
The Rodeo was a three-day affair this year. Friday saw rain and cooler temperatures, followed by hot, sunny, fun-filled days on Saturday and Sunday.
Thanks to Ross Millar and all the folks behind the RAM Rodeo Tour for putting on such a fantastic show. The entertainment value is, in my opinion, the best bang for your buck.
Mayor Paul McQueen deserves much praise for bringing the Rodeo back to town, as does Michele Harris, who heads up the Grey Highlands Economic Development. The Rodeo brought in thousands of spectators and raised a considerable amount of money for the New Markdale Hospital. The final tally wasn’t available at the time of publishing, but I’d venture to say they did as well or better than last year in terms of fundraising.
I’m already looking forward to the 2023 Grey Highlands RAM Rodeo! RAM RODEO TOUR www.ramrodeoontario.com By: Roger Tumminieri
Thank you to all the sponsors and volunteers; without whom the Rodeo would not
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Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
DURHAM HOMECOMING JUNE 30TH - JULY 3RD, 2022 Tickets: www.durhamhomecoming.ca
Brought to you by
GO LOCAL EXPLORING HOGGS FALLS
BRAVING THE BUGS ON THE BOYNE RIVER; SPRINGTIME AT HOGGS FALLS IN FLESHERTON Welcome to our new editorial feature, entitled, Go Local. It’s a new concept that complements our work at Fiat Lux Media; supporting local businesses. Go Local is our way of capturing adventures in Ontario in an effort to promote the practice of Staycationing. Keeping our money in the province is a great way to bolster our local economies and to learn more about the people and places that make Ontario great! I ventured out to Hoggs Falls in Flesherton recently with our nine-year-old son for an impromptu hike. We probably could have planned a bit better - like brought bug spray with us - but the father-son time was worth the bites. We’re blessed to live close to so many amazing natural spaces and places where we can roam and explore outdoors, free from the trappings of masks and other
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Covid-related restrictions. I actually took my boots off and walked barefoot through the Boyne River (see my Publisher’s Note photo on page 6). That simple act brought me down to earth at a time when my work commitments and the responsibilities of launching a new series of magazines, that being Support Local, have had my head in the clouds. I encourage you to follow along as we build out Go Local and by all means, please feel free to share stories and photos of your own adventures. GO LOCAL golocalontario@gmail.com www.golocalmagazine.ca
Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
FARM LIFE TIME IS A THIEF The minute a baby enters a woman’s life, they say a thief crouches at the door. Blue, green, purple, red, doesn’t matter what colour you wanna pick, he’ll be it. They’ll tell you it goes so quickly, so quickly. You’ll hear them with one ear while the other ear tunes to your newest treasure. You’ll believe them and not really and the thief will cackle at the door. 10,000 diapers, 500,000 meals and snacks later, and you’ll believe them finally. As much as you can. Especially as much as you can while you can hardly hold your head above water. Treading, dog paddling – some days doesn’t cut it. The purple thief at the door seems to have taken on a shade of green. You’d give anything to chase him away and he doesn’t seem to take to hints; you’re too busy treading anyway.
LOUELLA MARTIN
But eventually the thief at the door can no longer be ignored; his cackles have mushroomed in frequency and intensity. The diapers that somewhere along the way finally get traded in, the meals, the laundry, the endless questions and smallest acts of service, it all adds up and suddenly... Suddenly, what they said would happen, did happen, the thief has entered your house and stolen your firstborn. While she enters new stages, new doors, new ventures, you are left helpless as he runs off. His name? Time. And he stops for no one.
SERVING Grey County Bruce County Dufferin County The Blue Mountains
www.supportlocalmagazine.com
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ARTS & CULTURE A RIVER REVISITED In the words of Heraclitus, no one steps in the same river twice. Quite simply, the river is different, as is the person stepping into it. I wonder if the same could be said for a place. In my first “Flesherton Calling” column about a year and a half ago, I discussed the importance of place and how often we do not necessarily get to inhabit a particular place by choice at many points in our lives. I spoke of the journey my wife Mary Jo and I took to move to Grey County, one that has been immensely satisfying for the both of us on several fronts. My wife is a psychotherapist, and in the ten years since we moved, has grown in significant and surprising ways, both personally and professionally. When we first arrived, we were unsure how seriously Mary Jo’s practice might be affected. We expected a serious impact on her client base, and anticipated that she might, in fact, shift gears to writing about her work in attachment, adoption, and war trauma. As it turns out, since we arrived, her client base has grown considerably, she has published a book advocating open adoption, she has co-authored a course on attachment for ATTACH, an American NGO for which she is a past president. She created and spearheaded a program at a Hamilton high school in which I worked with a senior writing class, largely newcomers to Canada, to create a play telling the stories of some of their peers. The script was then performed by the theatre class in their auditorium and at Theatre Aquarius later that same year. A documentary called “A Better Day” does an excellent job telling the story of this process. In March 2020, Mary Jo travelled to the WHO headquarters in Geneva as part of an advisory group for Peacebuilding Mental Health, which was developing psychosocial programs for Somali. She is, to say the least, busier than ever.
PHOTO BY MARY JO LAND
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KEVIN ARTHUR LAND What could this possibly have to do with “place”? Nothing. And everything. In my own case, I was deeply entrenched in a creative stall when I moved here. The last new play I had written was “Skinning the Cat” in 2007, and I had adapted it for the film production in 2009. Since then, there was nothing but flirtation and false starts. One might conclude that it’s merely the effect of fresh air and pheromones, but I believe that from the get-go, the transplant of this city boy to a log home surrounded by a forest, a few streams, some arable land, and a pond, was the catalyst for an unforeseen creative spark. Something triggered a memory of a Sunday hike with my family by a waterfall in the city of waterfalls and an image that came of it. I was standing on a bridge overlooking the idyllic setting and I saw in my mind’s eye a man kneeling by the body of a dead woman. The sharp contrast between the dead body and the nourishing quality of the surroundings stuck with me, but I had no idea what the story was. My pond told me. I began writing “Manoosha”, a screenplay about a man who returns home to Grey County to investigate the accidental drowning of his sister in the family pond ten years earlier. It is a story where setting is nearly as important as the main character, whether the setting is here, my version of here, or a version that never really existed. It was only, after all, a snapshot of a place in time, of a step into a river.
Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
POLITICS ONTARIO VOTES I invite you to get plugged into this year’s elections in your area. For provincial elections, that typically means choosing a political party and volunteering for the local candidate’s campaign. But for municipal elections, there are no municipal parties, so you need to learn about the individual candidates who are running, then join a campaign. Or you could put your own name on the ballot! You can also plug into one of the many municipal groups across Ontario, who are non-partisan but organize around issues and push for democratic transparency and accountability.
DAVE MESLIN It’s a double-header election year in Ontario! First, our provincial election in June followed 144 days later by our municipal elections in October. Both levels of government are equally important yet, strangely, voter turnout between the two is considerably different. Provincial elections tend to attract 55 to 65% of voters, while local council races tend to attract only 25 to 50%. There’s no good reason why a voter should be more concerned about who’s running Queens Park than they are about who’s sitting in the Mayor’s seat! In fact, I would argue that the decisions of your local council have a greater impact on your daily life than the decisions made in the Ontario legislature. Municipal councils literally shape the world around us by making decisions about land use, zoning and development. They also make policies related to economic development, housing, long-term care, transportation, public health, road, social services and libraries. This is important stuff!
The Urban League of London and Engage Barrie are both great examples of effective municipal groups, along with newer groups like Engage Peel. I live in Eugenia, Ontario and recently helped form a new civics group: The Grey Highlands Municipal League! I’m working with a passionate group of volunteers and our goal is to boost political participation. We’ll be encouraging people to get involved all summer and autumn – as candidates, campaign volunteers, and as voters! Elections are a great way to make a real difference, and push for the change you want to see. Democratic engagement can also be fun and rewarding! If you live in Grey Highlands, I invite you to check us out at VoteGrey.ca. And if you live somewhere else, I invite you to do some digging and find opportunities to get involved! Elections matter. www.votegrey.ca
www.hellocountry.ca
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OUTDOOR LIFE FISHING IN ONTARIO
BRIAN GLASSEY Host of Canada’s Cast & Blast Podcast IG: @castandblastcanada www.castandblast.ca When the idea for Canada’s Cast & Blast Podcast was born, the producers never could have imagined that it would have grown into what it is today.
shows for Season 2 of Canada’s Cast & Blast Podcast in an effort to demystify the sports of hunting and fishing for new and aspiring participants in Ontario and beyond.
The Podcast started as a passion project between two former colleagues who used to work side-by-side in adjacent cubicles in an office building in Mississauga; rubbing elbows and selling business data.
Brian Glassey (pictured above) catches all the big fish, so that makes him the Host of the show, while Roger Tumminieri plays second fiddle as the show’s Co-Host. They’re joined in the background by Mike Wixson, owner of The Pod Plant, who manages the show’s production from the safety of his studio in the GTA.
Now, the pair stand shoulder to shoulder in duck blinds and on fishing boats recording
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Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
Brian Glassey holds up a monster Musky, the largest he’s ever caught.
Both Brian and Roger have moved on from office life and now live in rural areas with their respective families. Brian currently resides in Wellington County, while Roger calls Grey County home. No more cubicles for these guys! If you’re an accomplished angler or hunter, or are thinking of getting into the sports, tune in to Season 2 of Canada’s Cast & Blast Podcast to hear more stories from the field as Brian and Roger take you along for the ride while embarking upon new hunting
and fishing adventures across Ontario. Thanks for listening and subscribing and please check out our Season 2 Sponsors: THE AMMO SOURCE www.theammosource.com APPAREL COMPANY www.apparelco.ca
www.hellocountry.ca
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MIND OVER MOTOR THE ANSWER IS MIATA
2013 MAZDA MIATA It’s a common adage amongst automotive enthusiasts that, “The Answer is Miata”. Mazda’s ubiquitous 2 seat sportscar debuted in 1989, and is renowned for its simplicity, handling, feel, and for pretty much doing everything well. So when my wife and I travelled to Arizona recently, I decided to rent a 2013 Miata (aka MX5) to see what the hype was about. This was a bad decision logistically, because Miatas are small. That meant that we had to cram our luggage into spaces not meant for luggage, and contort ourselves into the remaining space. Initial driving impressions were very positive. The gearshift is direct and solid in its engagement. The steering is accurate and feeds back plenty of information about the road surface. The suspension is taught but not stiff, and provides a nice ride with minimal body roll. The engine is torquey and eager. It’s a great sportscar.
feel of the interior, the Style by Committee styling. The car lacked a depth of personality. It was certainly competent and fun, but it didn’t feel special. I liked it, but I just didn’t love it (I like to love things). So maybe Miata is “The Answer”. But maybe I don’t want “The Answer”. Maybe answers are fleeting. Maybe there’s more to life (and vehicles) than answers. Maybe I don’t want something that’s perfect. Maybe lasting beauty is found in flaws. Maybe the best things reveal themselves slowly over time. Maybe “It’s” about the questions, more than the answers. The Miata was lots of fun, but it just wasn’t that deep. “Miata is an answer.”
I got to know the little Miata well on some solo drives through Sedona and surrounding towns. Roads were winding, sun was shining, scenery was beautiful. While grinning from ear to ear, I was able to really wind out the engine and use all of the RPMs in each gear (it’s best to drive a “slow” car quickly). I was charmed. But that was puppy love. After a few days, I became weary of the dizziness and the directness and the enthusiasm. I was sunburnt on my forehead and forearms. My back hurt. I began to notice the plasticky
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ROBERT IANTORNO
Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
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“Grey County Cares” is supporting Ukrainian newcomers to Grey County. For a minimum $10 donation, you can purchase a button which demonstrates your support. Buttons can be purchased at the following locations:
Highland Grounds The Market Shoppe Municipality of Grey Highlands Grist Mill Winery Speaking Volumes Books Top of the Rock All Branches of Grey Highlands Public Library Jolley’s Variety and Video Maxwell Meats Murray’s Printing Chamber of Commerce Annesley United Church If you are a business interested in selling the buttons, contact Kevin at Speaking Volumes Books at 905-719-8878 or homelandk@sympatico.ca. Tax receipts for donations received are issued by the Rotary Club of Markdale.
www.hellocountry.ca
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HISTORY OF RURAL INTERNET Working from a Rural Home in the early 2010s Summer is finally here. It’s my favourite season! Which makes it difficult to sit indoors working when I want to be outside. The past few years have taught us that we can effectively work from home, even from our back decks or, in my case, the front porch. Where we work while at home brings me to my next story… Mobile cellular and Broadband satellite were working, so I cancelled my dial-up internet. I struggled along for a few years and then decided to try a newer technology called the Rogers Hub (Bell had the same technology, but we already had a Rogers plan). It was supposed to be quite a bit faster than both the mobile cellular stick and satellite system. When it arrived in the mail, I was so excited to set it up. I connected it to my computer and installed the software. It was ready! I connected to the internet and entered a few keystrokes and…. and…. it responded. At the same speed as the mobile cellular stick and satellite! I couldn’t believe it, it wasn’t any faster than the other
c New Markdale Hospital P c Your financial support ?
CINDY MCQUEEN technology that I had already invested in. I did some research and noticed that it might not be getting the best signal in the room I was in. Old farmhouses have what is called a ‘summer kitchen’, it’s a room off the house that was used in the summer to cook over a wood fired stove to keep the heat out of the house. Before we moved into the farmhouse, my husband renovated the summer kitchen to have drywall and use it as living space with a wood stove for heat. I moved my desk, computer, and internet modem to the large dining room. I connected to the internet and voila! It was twice as fast as when my office was in the summer kitchen! Out of curiosity, I disconnected the new hub and connected the mobile cellular stick to see if it was faster, and to my dismay it was, too. I could have had faster internet by just moving my desk to a better location in the house! I cancelled the broadband satellite and continued using the hub and the mobile stick (which was portable; I could use this stick anywhere I travelled as long as a cellular tower was close by) in a new, sunnier location in our home.
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Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
CHAMBER THE VALUE OF VOLUNTEERING Have you ever considered volunteering? Giving your time, energy, and/or skills has tremendous, far-reaching benefits. From teaching kids to use tools, to getting posters into store windows, to helping put on events, you and your community can profit. If you prefer to keep close to home, you can help with calling people and spreading the word, mailing letters, or making social media posts. Want to get out? Everyone needs someone to help file and keep their office or storage space organized, and events are always needing more helpers. It can introduce you to new people. You can join organizing groups and share your creativity to help plan activities and events and get things done. These folks are often like-minded and can introduce you to even more people you share interests with. It can raise awareness of your skill set and personality. We live where people get to know your name. You know, like “NORM!” on Cheers. It’s a good feeling to be recognized. It can benefit a few or a lot of people, and your community will never be the same. No matter what you do, you will feel very useful! Your Chamber of Commerce is just one organization that needs volunteers from time to time. We’re putting on a lot of events this year and that means we’ll need people in the planning stages and the events themselves. Parade marshals, traffic directors, booth organizers, poster posters, word-ofmouth spreaders - if you can contribute, please reach out!
Two-day Fair August 26th & 27th, 2022 Opening Ceremonies Friday, August 26th at 7 p.m. Doors open 6:30 p.m. Ambassador Competition Entertainment Saturday, August 27th Open Livestock Shows Homecraft Exhibits Entertainment Vendors & Volunteers welcome!
LIFE OF A GARLIC FARMER PART 17 We’re half-way there. I can’t believe it’s June already. Paul and I are just getting into our busiest time of the year. Thanks to the warm seasonal weather, our garlic is growing big and beautiful. The scapes are soon to be harvested, and sold to all the amazing fine dining restaurants, foodie enthusiasts and of course many other local producers; and let’s not forget we offer them free to whomever wants to come to the farm and pick ‘em themselves. I am so proud and happy for the overall response from so many people who came out to support local businesses and farm stores throughout Grey County last year and all the markets that we attended. Now, all the garlic festivals, trade shows, and conventions are opening again and I can’t wait. Pure Music Garlic and Boars Rock Farm will be travelling Ontario once again and seeing all the other garlic farmers that we call friends and family. We will still be attending a couple of local farmers markets that fought to stay open throughout the pandemic, and even taking part in a couple of new ones. And of course, our farm and brand new farm store will be open for all your garlic needs. We believe now more than ever it is critical to continue to shop local and support all your local farmers and businesses. Let’s refocus, get into the right mindset and change your shopping habits if you weren’t already doing so. The many perks to continue to do so are tremendous...
PAUL & LORRAINE IRWIN together. Another reason should be the exceptional customer service that many small shops and businesses give all customers. Shopping local creates jobs in the community and that positively impacts individuals, families, and Canada as a whole. There are so many talented artists, makers of everything imaginable and businesses across Ontario. So take a look around you and let’s spread some love around.
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Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
FAMILY MATTERS ELECTION PROMISES As the Ontario election moved along, politicians roamed the province making promises. Many of us no longer trust politicians to keep their promises. There is certainly good reason for us to be skeptical. Remember Jean Chretien’s promise to scrap and abolish the GST? How about our current Prime Minister promising that if elected, the 2015 election would be the last “first-past-the-post-election” in Canada? Politicians make promises in the hopes that we will give them our votes in return. Does this constitute a binding contract between the politician and the voter? This question was referred to the court in 2004 when Liberal leader Dalton McGuinty put in writing a pledge that if elected, he would not raise taxes. Of course as soon as he was elected he brought in the biggest tax increase in Ontario’s history. The Canadian Taxpayer’s Federation took the McGuinty government to court arguing breach of contract. It did not go well for them. The Ontario Superior Court of Justice said
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JASON TODOROFF that election promises are not binding and do not constitute a contract with voters. The court said it was not up to them to hold politicians accountable for broken promises, that was the role of the voter. As I write this, I ask myself, whatever happened to “buck a beer?”
Supporting Local in Grey Highlands
GREYCOUNTYREALESTATE.COM 200 Highland Drive, West Grey Perfectly situated atop a hill overlooking beautiful 6 acres of rolling hardwood forest is this custom-built bungalow. You’ll be splendidly surprised to find it's both cozy and charming Covered front porch, bright open living room, custom kitchen, dining room, 3+1 bedrooms, 4-piece bath, 3-piece ensuite, 2-piece powder room, laundry/ mudroom and family room.
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MAIN STREET EAST MARKDALE 519-986-2552
Stunning mix of open space, rolling forest with trails and mature trees. The property also has two road frontages, with the second frontage at the end of the cul-de-sac and may offer potential for severance.