O T R - Trails Youth Initiatives
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Sept 2019
OTR
Jamie manages a race team,
Co-Owns Fast Eddie, is VP Sales &
Marketing for Choko Authentics,
and... is having a baby.
PG. 12
inside
september plus
A Tribute to Anna FINDING JORGE
Revisiting Trails Youth Initiatives Story of a Surrogate Baby
A Morning with Crock A Doodle PG. 5
Need to Know Borlak Law
Gear Up with Nature's Gifts THE WOMEN OF KING COLE
Community Impact Awards A Special Cuisine Questionaire
An All Candidates Debate PG. 8
On The Road In Whitchurch–Stouffville is the Monthly Journal of the Town
townofws.ca/otr
2 TABLE OF CONTENTS COUNCIL
COUNCIL CORNER3 3
CORNER
GO
GOtrain
trainwhistles
whistlespart
partofofupcoming
upcomingstudy
study
OTR
AFFORDABLE
AFFORDABLE
HOUSING
HOUSING
COMPLEX
COMPLEX
ONON
MAIN
MAIN
ST.,ST.,
ALSOALSO
ONON
COUNCIL
COUNCIL
AGENDA
AGENDA
GlennGlenn
Jackson,
Jackson,
Contributor
Contributor
ThisThis
is a monthly
is a monthly
column
column
summarizing
summarizing
recent
recent
Whitchurch-Stouffville
Whitchurch-Stouffville Council
Council
decisions.
decisions.
Subscribe
Subscribe
to our
to eNewsletter
our eNewsletter
for more
for more
detailed
detailed
information:
information:
eepurl.com/cKPNg9
eepurl.com/cKPNg9
Railway
Railway SafetySafety Studies.
Studies. In March
In March of this
of this
September 2019 townofws.ca/otr year,year,
Whitchurch-Stouffville
Whitchurch-Stouffville CouncilCouncilapproved
approved
the go-ahead
the go-ahead to hireto hire
a consultant
a consultant to study
to study
safetysafety
4
at allatofallthe
of urban
the urban railway
railway
gradegradecrossings
crossingsin in
From the Editor SOCIETAS | Death, Life and Debate the municipality.
the municipality. These These
studies
studies
could could
one one
day day
Welcome to almost-fall. We know it is In another special edition of Societas, we pay tribute to Anna Trokova leadlead
to whistle
to whistle cessation
cessationat allatorallsome
or some of theof the
almost fall because it is time for Fast Eddie Dimovski, who adorned the cover of OTR last month. We also celebrate crossings
crossings in Town.
in Town.
Motorfest and King Cole Duckfest. The sum- the new life of a surrogate baby. Finally, it's time for a debate. GO GO trains trainscurrently
currently do not do not blow blowtheir their
mer, albeit delayed, has been brilliant. After whistles
whistles at the at the
Millard
Millard
Street Street
crossing
crossing andand
the crossings
the crossings at theat intersection
the intersection of Bethesda
of Bethesda
6
some scrambling, a lot of the crops and golf
greens recovered from winter damage. Very Road Road
and andTenth Tenth
Line.Line.
Residents
Residentsin the invicinity
the vicinity
few of our community events, like Ribfest
INSIGHT | Trails Revisited of other
of other crossings
crossings in town
in townhavehavecontinuously
continuously
Two years ago, in September 2017, we visited Trails Youth Initiatives,
and Strawberry Festival, had substantial rain raised
raised
the issue
the issuemany many
times,times,
especially
especiallyin thein the
a camp in the highlands of the Whitchurch Forest; they were about
delays or cancellations. Community
Community of Stouffville.
of Stouffville.
to expand. Two years later, how are they doing? We went to find out.
On the political side, Council passed the At theAt July
the Julymeeting,
meeting, Council
Council
approved
approved the theAn upcoming
An upcomingstudystudy
will evaluate
will evaluate
the safety
the safety
at allatofall
theofurban
the urban
railway
railway
gradegrade
crossings
crossings
in Whitchurch-Stouffville.
in Whitchurch-Stouffville.
new Strategic Plan before exiting on a short hiring
hiring
of CIMAof CIMA CanadaCanadaInc. Inc.
to perform
to perform these theseConsultants
Consultants
CIMACIMACanada Canada
Inc. will
Inc.evaluate
will evaluate
all ofall
theofoptions
the options
available
available
to maketo make
the crossings
the crossings
safersafer
for pedestrians,
for pedestrians,
8
cyclists
cyclists
and motorists,
and motorists,including
including
the possibility
the possibility
of whistle
of whistle
cessation.
cessation.
BELOW: BELOW:
A concept
A concept
drawing
drawing
of a proposed
of a proposed
summer hiatus. studies.
studies.
6-storey
6-storey
affordable
affordable
housing
housing
complex
complex
on the oncurrent
the current
site ofsite
Chas.
of Chas.
Richards
Richards
and Sons
and Sons
on Main
on Main
St. Stouffville.
St. Stouffville.
This issue of OTR is average, meaning a lot CUISINE | The Women of King Cole CIMA CIMA will will
looklookat several
at several
issues issues
pertaining
pertaining
of subjects melded together and created an In anticipation of Duckfest 2019, we visit with the Women of King Cole: to railway
to railway crossing
crossing safety,
safety,
including
including an anpresentation
presentation about about
their their
desiredesireto build
to build an an
unforeseen theme. The only brilliance on my Robin, Jackie, Patti and Debbi to ask about their favourite food and assessment
assessment of the of safety
the safetyoptions
optionsavailable for foraffordable
available affordablehousinghousingcomplexcomplexin theinCommunity
the Community
part is recognizing it. This theme is Nurturing wine, vacation spots and summer activities - and to ask about family. pedestrians,
pedestrians, cyclists
cyclists
and and
motorists
motoristsat allatofall of theof Stouffville.
the of Stouffville.
Family Relationships. The death and life arti- urbanurban
crossings.
crossings. Housing
Housing YorkYork Inc.Inc.(HYI) (HYI)
is the is the
Region’s
Region’s
16
cles are heart-wrenching and moving at the CIMA CIMAwill will
alsoalso
evaluate
evaluate the appropriatenesshousing
the appropriateness housingcompanycompany and andoversees
oversees37 properties
37 properties
same time, while the stories about Borlak Law, of pursuing
of pursuing whistlewhistlecessation
cessationat the at the
Town’sTown’s(approximately
(approximately 27002700units)units)
housinghousingmore more
thanthan
Fast Eddie, and King Cole are about families NEED TO KNOW | A Far Reaching Family urbanurban railwayrailwaygrade grade
crossings.
crossings. As partAs partof of4000 4000
residents
residents throughout
throughout the Region.
the Region. TheyThey
working together – harmoniously. Finally, in Borlak Law Office is a unique entity, not only for their beautiful heritage
thisthis
evaluation,
evaluation, safety safety
considerations
considerations be beare the
will will are7th
thelargest
7th largestnon-profit
non-profit housing
housing
provider
provider
Trails revisited – we learn how to create a nur- office building at the corner, or for the indigenous art collection, or for
assessed
assessed if whistle
if whistle
cessation
cessation
werewere to take
to take
effect.
effect.in Ontario.
in Ontario.
turing family. it being a family that works in harmony. Their focus is also unique.
Subject
Subject mattermatterexperts
experts
will will
review review available HYIHYI
available recently
recentlypurchased
purchased 3.7 acres
3.7 acres
of land
of landon on
So many good things are right here on our datadataregarding
regarding the thesafetysafety
of crossings
of crossings withwithMain Main
Street
Street
in Stouffville
in Stouffville to build
to build
the housing
the housing
18
doorstep. As Anna Trokova would have said, whistle
whistlecessation
cessation in place
in place
and andcomparecompare them themcomplex.
complex. LocatedLocated at 5676
at 5676
Main Main
Street,
Street,
where where
“Meeting people is like opening a gift – it’s a
novelty, exciting and a mystery.”
GEAR UP | Nature’s Gift and Organic Spa to those
to thosewithout
without it. it. Charles
Charles
Richards
Richards and and SonsSonscurrently
currently resides,
resides,
In the retail area there are all-natural products, handcrafted jewelry, An An analysis
analysis of theof theestimated
estimated costs to tothe the
costs newnewcomplexcomplex will will
be “rental
be “rental housing
housing for for
David Tuley, Editor | ecdev@townofws friendship balls and birdfeeders, spirit animals, incense, natural implement
implement safety safety
measures,
measures, including
including whistle
whistleseniors,
seniors,
young young
couples,
couples,and and
those those
livingliving
alone” alone”to the to presentation.
the presentation.
soaps, and candles and bees wax products. Check it out. cessation,
cessation, will will
alsoalso
be part
be partof the of the
study, as asaccording
study, according to the to presentation.
the presentation. FundingFunding for for
the theproject
project
is included
is included in in
willwill
an evaluation
an evaluation of best
of best practices
practices from from TheThe Region Region saidsaid there there would would be bethe the Region’s
Region’s 20-year
20-year Capital
Capital PlanPlan withwith
otherother
municipalities.
municipalities. CIMA CIMAwill will
alsoalso
analyze
analyzeapproximately
approximately 100 100rentalrental
apartments
apartments withwith 1, 1,contributions
contributions fromfromthe provincial
the provincial and and
federal
federal
insurance
insurance and andliability
liability
considerations
considerations the the2- and
thatthat 2- and
3-bedroom
3-bedroom units units
available.
available.There There
will willgovernments
governments hopinghopingto betoaround
be around30%.30%.
Newsflash Council
Corner
Where
Next
Community
News
Town Townmust
to betoput
be into
must
dealdeal
put into
withwith
place.place.
if whistle
if whistle
cessation
cessation werewerebe indoor
be indoor
“potential
“potential
and and outdoor
commercial
outdoor
commercial
amenity
amenity
opportunity.”
space
opportunity.”
space
withwith a a A Public
September
A Public
September
Open Open
17 at17Town
House
at Town
Houseis scheduled
HallHall
is scheduled
for those
for those
wishing
for for
wishing
TheThe safety safety
assessment
assessment began began in mid-August TheThe
in mid-August proposed
proposed building
building will will
be 6bestoreys
6 storeysmore moreinformation
information (please(please
see page
see page22 of22thisof this
In this issue you will notice a “Newsflash” and and
is expected
is expected to wrap
to wrapup by uptheby end
the endof theof theaccording
according to the to the
Region,Region,which whichis currently
is currentlyissueissue of OTRof OTRfor more
for moredetails).
details).
here and there. As it happens, a lot of the year.year. allowable
allowable under under the the Town’sTown’s Official
OfficialPlanPlan
subject material also coincides with special and and
zoningzoningby-laws.
by-laws. TheThe RegionRegionwill will
submit submit COUNCIL
COUNCIL MEETINGS:
MEETINGS:
03 10 23
events – car shows, duck parties and an over- Generally,
Generally,
4 p.m. 4 p.m.
or 7 p.m.
or 7 p.m.
everyevery
otherother
Tuesday
Tuesday
in thein the
Affordable
Affordable HousingHousing on Main
on Main Street.
Street.At Ata Site a Site
PlanPlan Application
Application laterlater
thisthis
yearyear withwith
Council
Council
Chambers,
Chambers,
111 Sandiford
111 Sandiford
Drive,Drive,
Stouffville.
Stouffville.
night forest retreat. All of these event take the the
JulyJuly 16 Council
16 Council Meeting,
Meeting, representatives
representativesconstruction
construction expected
expected to begin
to beginnextnext
year.year. ListenListen live: townofws.ca/cmlivestream.
live: townofws.ca/cmlivestream.
place in September - don't miss out! from fromthe the Region Region of York
of York gavegave CouncilCouncil a a Occupancy Occupancy is slated
is slated
to betoinbe2022
in 2022
according
accordingLive tweets: Live tweets:
@ws_townhall
@ws_townhall
4 SOCIETAS
A Tribute
TO ANNA
Summer 2019
Finding
Stoyanka Anna Trokova Dimovski (August 31, 1971
- August 8, 2019), OTR “covergirl” in August, a
community blogger and social activist, passed away
peacefully surrounded by her family at her side, in her
48th year. Beloved wife of Jimmy for 11 years. Proud
OTR
JORGE A Story about a
Surrogate Baby
We covered Jorge de la Garza in July of 2018 when he had launched Twilight
inside
and loving mother of Lola Liberty and Maximilian Justice. summer Forest, a company that rented fat tire bikes, electric bikes, fishing kayaks
York9 FC @ One Year Later
High Quality, Low Cost Tile and snowshoes from his Aurora Rd. property. Then he was featured again in
November 2018, when Twilight Forest had completed the permitting process
Safeguarding Pedestrians
Her passion for life and living was addictive. Her creative Stouffville Country Ribfest
46th Classic Car Show
and renovations to open a Bed & Breakfast operation.
WSPL Fall Guide Preview
mind always working, always creating beauty and love. plus
She made things happen, never stopped living life with WOMEN OF INFLUENCE
Six Page Special Feature
One of Jorge's most memorable moments at the B&B was hosting a group of
PG. 5
a purpose. Anna’s family was her pride and joy. She loved TOWN STRAT PLAN
Embracing the Future
her home in Stouffville, she loved her community and the PG. 18
film students. They produced a movie scene on his property which backs onto
wonderful neighbours that became great friends. Anna the York Regional Forest. I met with Jorge quarterly at Velvet Sunrise for
has left us too soon but her kind soul and beauty will a warm cup of coffee to check on his progress. One day he said, "I'm probably
always be remembered.
Anna Trokova shows
us that the dark side
is a bright place
going to have to shut it down and sell my property."
PG. 8
Below is Marissa Stapley's Facebook post shortly after It was a shock - somehow Jorge was having a baby. I wasn't aware of a
Anna's death had been announced. Marissa is an award- partner being in his life. He then told me the story featured below. It is an
nominated journalist and the bestselling author of three amazing story that I thought should be shared. We will miss Jorge and his
novels, daughter of Bruce Stapley - publisher and editor of On The Road In Whitchurch–Stouffville is the Monthly Journal of the Town business, but we are understanding in that he wants to raise Sarah Elisa
the Stouffville Free Press, and a Stouffville High graduate. townofws.ca/otr
within close proximity of a family support system.
Reprinted from a Post by Marissa Stapley
when we got the news, listening to a Father/ could be at home in bed wallowing in the sad- Jorge de la Garza, Contributor
This past year, my dad started talking
Daughter road trip playlist I’d made especially ness of your circumstances. That was Anna. Most of us know many families which have own family. the word surrogacy, the person apologized
frequently about a new friend of his, named
for the drive. She was terminally ill, and over To say she was special sounds incredibly had challenges conceiving a child, and perhaps His excitement turned into action and he and said their clinic does not support any
Anna. She had burst into his world like a fire-
the past few years had made it her mission trite but is incredibly true. In the dictionary, they have opted for the wonderful gift of start- started researching about surrogacy. To his intended parents who want to embark in
work, approaching his table at a cafe he fre-
to truly connect with people, to listen and to special is defined as, “better, greater, or oth- ing a family through adoption. However, not surprise, there was almost no information surrogacy. Yet again, Jorge was referred to a
quented in Stouffville, our hometown, and
learn, to turn strangers into friends. If you met erwise different from what is usual” and that many of us know a family who has embarked available online about the process in Canada third clinic, in Etobicoke, that seemed to be
striking up a conversation.
Anna, even just once, you know she accom- was Anna. I’d never met anyone like her, and in starting their family through surrogacy, so or in the world. He visited a couple of public the only one available to deal with families
If you know my dad, you know he loves to
plished that mission. If you didn’t, imagine a I imagine -- with great sadness -- that I never let’s find out what that is all about. libraries, and there were no materials or started through surrogacy. You can imagine
have conversations — especially with people
random woman, willowy and blond, plunking will again. If you want to learn more about Jorge de la Garza, a resident of Whitchurch- books related to surrogacy. It seems that this Jorge’s disbelief and confusion after spending
who are passionate, intelligent, and kind.
herself down at your cafe table and starting to what Anna was about, you can check out her Stouffville, son, brother, friend, engineer, is such a new topic, that our sources of knowl- several hours filling out all of the required
Anna was all of those things. “She’s my adopt-
chat. Imagine thinking for a moment, “Who is @the_bulb_chronicles (which would make hobbyist musician, outdoors enthusiast, busi- edge have not caught up yet in what it is and documentation and getting a “can’t help you”
ed daughter now,” he eventually told me.
this person?! I just want to drink my latte and her so very happy, because it was her passion ness entrepreneur, and now, a loving father of what it entails. answer from the clinic. However, he was very
Frankly, I was skeptical. Who was this
stare into my laptop.” Then imagine shrug- project during the years she was ill). But, more Sarah Elisa, a 2-month-old precious baby girl As the search continued, he had multiple excited about having found what seemed to be
woman? Why had my dad unofficially adopted
ging and saying, “Why not?” And then imagine importantly, if you want to understand what conceived through surrogacy. Jorge has had questions: is it legal in Canada? If so, how could the right place where he could find out more
a stranger? But I’ve always wanted a sister and
being forever changed by her. Anna was about smile at a stranger, or better meaningful, loving relationships throughout he start the process? How can a surrogate information about how to start his family
I love my dad, so I agreed to meet her.
yet, talk to one. Do something kind. Make his life and like many others, had a dream be found? Are assisted reproduction clinics journey.
We met one morning in late spring at an
someone believe that he or she is interesting about starting a family of his own some day available to help with the process? How much That same day, Jorge contacted the fertil-
author event I did at the Hummingbird Hub
and unique — because everyone is. Everyone with a partner. Unfortunately, non-fruit- does it cost? What are the legalities around ity clinic in Etobicoke after confirming that
in Stouffville. I adored her. We went out for
has a story. ful relationships, and work demands with it?... The list was endless, and Jorge’s anxiety they would be able to help with the surroga-
brunch afterwards with my dad and joked
Anna wanted us to be open to all the stories extensive overseas traveling and after-hours and frustration started to grow due to the lack cy process. He booked an appointment with
about how we were sisters now, which meant
the world has to offer. She wanted us to live requirements, saw Jorge on his 40th birthday of information. He decided to reach out to a the head Doctor, who was going to explain the
a great many things — but mostly that she was
as if our time could run out at any moment — without having fulfilled that family dream. fertility clinic in Newmarket to inquire about entire process to him. A few days later, the
going to teach me how to drive, something I've
because it could. She wanted us to do things Jorge waited for the right opportunity to the process. To his surprise, the clinic indi- meeting took place and for the first time, Jorge
always been too afraid to do.
that scare us, because we’re alive. And she start his family. As the years went by, he real- cated that they only deal with couples having got a good glimpse of the surrogacy process.
Summer approached and we tried to make
will never be forgotten by the many people she ized that adopting a child as a single guy is very difficulties conceiving. They recommended In summary, here is how this fascinating
plans for a driving lesson, and perhaps this
touched with her lively, beautiful energy. challenging and the chances of being picked another clinic in Toronto, that may be able to process works. There are two different kinds
will be something I'll always regret: I had a
are very low. At one time when his hopes were help him in his journey. of surrogacy: traditional surrogacy, where the
new book coming out and my schedule was
particularly low, he remembers going to the He promptly booked an appointment and person to carry the baby also donates her eggs
busy. “We’ll have to do it later in the sum-
bookstore. He found one book that caught filled out the lengthy questionnaires that the to conceive the baby; and gestational surroga-
mer once I get back from vacation,” I told her,
his attention: Ricky Martin’s biography. He clinic required prior to the visit. Once the cy, where an egg donor (or one of the intend-
because Anna was so brilliant, so full of life For more about Anna, look for
the September edition of the
bought the book and read it completely in day came, he got to the appointment to what ed parent in the case of a woman) is involved
and light, that I refused to believe she wasn’t Free Press. Bruce Stapley
Imagine feeling suddenly open to a new has written a special column, only a few days and got excited and truly looked like a futuristic place with huge glass in the conception of the baby, so there is no
going to make it through the summer. I was and has curated a collection
friendship, even if you quickly realize it’s a inspired by Ricky Martin’s story of starting windows all decorated in white and with every biological link between the baby and the
sure we’d have ages to drive down country of community tributes by
friendship that’s going to break your heart.
Cheeyuen Lim, Iain Lovatt, Sue his own family through surrogacy in Puerto single staff member dressed in pristine white gestational carrier or surrogate. The sperm
roads together, hair flying in the wind, like Sherban, Ron Brownsberger,
Imagine being unafraid, even in the face of a Patrick Lannigan, John Relph Rico. This seemed to be a brand-new door clothes. After five minutes of introductions, to fertilize the egg could be from a sperm
Thelma and Louise. and Rafael Morales, and others.
terrible truth. Imagine sparkling with irre- never explored before that potentially would Jorge got to share his story with the person in
Anna died on Thursday night [Aug.8]. My
pressible light even when, by all rights, you provide the opportunity to Jorge to start his charge of his case. As soon as he mentioned Continued, Page 20
dad and I were driving home from New York
6 INSIGHT
MEET CORPORAL
BRAD COSBURN
TRAILS
Two years ago, in September 2017, we visited Trails Youth
Initiatives, a camp in the highlands of the Whitchurch Forest.
Trails is a unique 27-year-old charity that provides life-long,
REVISITED
consistent programming for vulnerable youth. We visited with
Founder and Chair Jim Hayhurst Sr. and President Melissa
Millward.
In 2017, Trails welcomed twenty 12-year-olds (10 boys and
10 girls) to embark on their four-year journey. In addition,
there are optional fifth and sixth year Leadership-in-Training
and Facilitator-in-Training (LIT/FIT) programs where students Newsflash:
can further develop leadership and life skills. They can also
access bursaries to attend post-secondary education. Back
Trails Lakeside Wellness Retreat
From 9AM Saturday, Sept. 28 to 4PM Sunday, Sept. 29
then, Trails supported about 100 youth each year, they had
a 90% 4-year retention rate, the annual $800k budget was
Support Trails Youth Initiatives by indulging in a Wellness
100% supported by private contributions (0% from govern-
Retreat in the healing forest of the Whitchurch Highlands.
ment) and Trails was preparing to double their enrolment.
Connect to nature and yourself next to a beautiful private
Two years later, how are they doing? We went to find out.
lake on 143 acres of lush conservation land. Rest, rejuve-
We arrive to a scene that is the same as before: a glimmer-
nate and enjoy outdoor activities and incredible plant-based
ing dark lake carries a reflection of the surrounding canopy,
food while learning about wellness, mindfulness and health
a wooden dock juts out towards a buoyed rope, while cabins
at informative workshops. The $350 ticket buys you 2 days,
and a lodge cling to a hillside, hidden in the long shadows of Brad Cosburn joined Trails the summer before he start-
including all activities, room and meals – plus, proceeds will
the forest. It is quiet, except for the dance of birds and bugs. ed Grade 7 at Milne Valley Middle School in Toronto. His
benefit Trails’ program for vulnerable youth.
There have been some changes: a foyer has been added mom died right before he came to Trails and his Aunt TT,
www.trails.ca/events
across the front of the main building; it is a great place for was raising him and his sister. Brad’s cohort, known as
all those shoes, snow boots and hanging coats and jack- the Moonlight Howlers, committed to attend Trails for two
ets. A little further up the hill, a new cabin has been built. weeks each summer and one weekend each month, for
Apparently, the campers helped specify certain attributes, the next four years.
like bed-length, etc. Throughout Brad's journey, he learned to swim, canoe,
Melissa Millward is still there – she greets us. We sit in camp, hike and cross-country ski while gaining important
a beautiful room lined with windows overlooking the lake. life skills such as taking responsibility for his actions,
The Chair Jim Hayhurst wasn't available this day, but is still communicating effectively and managing stress. Brad
actively involved. relied on his committed and consistent staff team who
The “quiet” wasn’t to last, as a group of campers have immediately saw past his challenges of low social aware-
just arrived back from an overnight trip on the French River. ness and low self-regulation and highlighted the energy,
Random voices exclaim bug bites, body odors and heat. enthusiasm and ambition for which he was recruited.
These appear to be “regular kids” returning from camp, not Unfortunately, while Brad was on his Year 2 trip the fol-
vulnerable youth with tough stories about abuse, a lack of lowing summer, Aunt TT went into critical condition and
food, bad neighbourhoods and general poverty. But this is the ultimately lost her battle to cancer. Brad was forced into
key – Trails nurtures and empowers children to get beyond foster care and changed homes five times before being
these major obstacles – and, it’s working. The kids I see, adopted into a stable home. Throughout his darkest days,
are great kids. passionate and committed to changing lives,” she said. Brad says Trails was the one thing that was always there
Mel reports that their retention rate has increased to 93%, In conclusion, Trails Youth Initiatives has become more for him. Brad completed the Four Seasons, Four Years,
up from 90%. Trails has doubled their enrolment as planned; amazing in the past two years. They need help in three ways: For Life program and continued to be an LIT in his fifth
now they receive 40 new kids a year. 100% of the youth (1) Donate Now or Donate Monthly – they have a charitable year, mentoring younger Trails participants and giving
graduate high school, 100% give back to the community, registration number and can provide a tax receipt; (2) Name back to his community.
and 75% go on to post-secondary school. The annual budget Trails as one of the charities for which your community event Now 21, Corporal Brad Cosburn is studying Fish and
didn’t double with the increased population, but it did rise to raises money; and (3) Volunteer - Corporate partners like Wildlife Technology at Fleming College with support from
$1.3 million a year. To their mantra, Trails still relies 100% on Scotiabank, Deloitte, Intact Insurance, RBC, Desjardins, and Trails' Dion Bursary Fund covering his annual tuition and
private charitable contributions – no government assistance. Telus have been investing in the future of youth with social book expenses. In addition, he is part of the Canadian
They now work with six inner-city schools. responsibility in the form of service. Corporate Impact days Armed Forces and is currently serving in Norway.
What else is new? Mel reports the inevitable headaches at Trails Lakeside include hosting corporate Volunteer Teams Through outdoor skill development, high school credits,
– two vans and an ATV broke down, the Ash tree disease who come to help build docks, clean cabins, cut wood, rake mentorship, bursaries and, above all, a constant pres-
arrived, which forced a $30k expenditure to reinstall the leaves, and tend to the community garden. ence in his life, Trails challenged and equipped Brad to
ropes course, and for a while, she personally battled with become a contributing member of his community.
finding balance. To be more self-sustaining, Mel learned Trails Youth Initiatives “Trails has been the one thing that has always been
that in order to have a broader impact, she needed to bring 905-836-0285 there for me… I want to thank you for all you have done.
together people whose combined knowledge and resourc- admin@trails.ca It is far more than you know,” said Brad.
es work better than apart. “We have great staff - who are www.trails.ca
8 CUISINE Newsflash:
The Women
of King Cole DUCKFEST 2019
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
12-4PM - Rain or Shine
Free Admission & Parking
Duckfest brings another fabulous day filled with delicious duck and recipes
from some of the best local providers. It features free samples, prizes and fun.
3500 people came out for Duckfest 2018. This year the event will be improved:
fewer duck stations with more food, more support and more opportunities for
dialogue with the visiting chefs. For more details about duckfest visit
www.kingcoleducks.com.
ROBIN KELLY, JACKIE FISHER PATTI THOMPSON DEBBI CONZELMANN ABOUT FAMILY
HATCHERY MANAGER BREEDER/HATCHERY DIVISION MANAGER VP SALES & MARKETING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER King Cole Ducks is Canada’s largest duck producer. random quotes from the Women of King Cole: "We do
education: education: education: education: From their farm in Stouffville, duck is being enjoyed a Sister's Supper once a month to discuss business,
Retail Management @ Sheridan College Agriculture @ University of Guelph Public Relations @ Humber College Executive MBA @ Harvard by customers in the Middle East, Tahiti, USA as well family, sister stuff, difficult issues, and re-connect
first job: first job: first job: first job: as here in our own back yard. Their farm fresh store, the silos."
Grading eggs in the hatchery Gathering eggs Chasing ducks, paid in Popsicles Queensville Farm Supply located at 15351 Warden Avenue, is open 7 days a week, "We actually like each other. We work a lot, but
fav duck dish: fav duck dish: fav duck dish: fav duck dish:
offering fully-cooked products such as smoked duck everyone pitches in, extended family comes out -
Smoked duck pizza Confit Legs Duck Wings as Fun Food! Pan Seared Duck Breast
fav wine style: breast, Roast Half a L’Orange, and confit roasted we've nurtured that. We are planning a 110 kilometer
fav wine style: fav wine style: fav wine style:
Valpolicella Valpolicella or Pinot Grigio Pinot Noir, great with Duck Cabernet Sauvignon legs. Ready-to-cook products are plentiful, includ- walk together this fall in Coboconk."
fav summer activity: fav summer activity: fav summer activity: fav summer activity: ing whole duck and boneless duck breasts, and Duck "Family is incredible. We have fun. We work togeth-
Gardening Watching daughters show quarter horses Road cycling, including 16km to work Golf @ Station Creek Spiedini (tender meat skewers). er and play together. Our vacations together are fan-
fav vacation spot: fav vacation spot: fav vacation spot: fav vacation spot: King Cole has four generations of family involved in tastic. We are not quite ready to pass the torch yet."
Anywhere with Family & Friends Europe, I like Spain and England Maui for surfing, swimming, and snorkling Tuscany, Italy - Love the Old Towns. the business. How do they get along? Here are some
10 WHERE NEXT
A Beautiful Balance Between Franchise & Franchisee
Proudly Canadian, Crock A Doodle was founded in 2002. painters. Sabrina hopes this article will invite more new
Currently there are 36 studios in Ontario, Manitoba, and families to discover the fun of pottery painting. She says
Alberta. The franchise program is slowly expanding across the studio welcomes children of all ages but that the major-
Canada. Not intentionally, all the franchisees are women. ity of the clientele is actually adults. It’s a social and trendy
Crock A Doodle has a very unique franchise system – with thing to do for teens and young adults. “Our Unionville loca-
an affordable start-up and no royalties or annual franchise tion is almost all adult painters. Parents love to paint too
fees. sometimes taking over their child’s project unintention-
“Good pricing transfers from the importer, through the ally, they often say “I want to come back without the kids”
franchise owner, and to the customer – we have great buy- – that’s how Ladies Night/Date Night came to be.” she adds.
ing power as a group which allows us to not charge studio Although adults are welcome to paint anytime, every other
fees to our customers. It’s an excellent franchise model so month or so Sabrina will close the Stouffville studio to the
my husband Leo and I bought and opened one studio and little ones for a Ladies Night. Some are in the studio, but if
then a year later, bought and opened our second, we’re drinks are needed, she will collaborate with a local restau-
keeping our eye out for a third.” she says. “My husband Leo,” rant. Usually 30-60 women attend. “Our Ladies Nights are
Sabrina reports, “is the business mind behind the scenes, so fun,” says Sabrina with a big smile, “Everyone leaves in
controlling margins and ordering. He checks in after work. good spirits. It’s art therapy.”
He’s a natural at it, being an account manager in the food The studios are also gaining popularity with corpo-
industry.” rate groups. The studio has hosted teams from Winners,
Sabrina owns the Stouffville and Unionville locations. Shoppers Drug Mart, The Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville,
Apparently, the two studios have very different clientele, Markham Stouffville Hospital and Tangerine recently.
despite being the identical franchise. “Stouffville is com- We’ve also been invited to hold a workshop at a conference
munity-based, whereas Unionville attracts locals and to add a little fun to the day.
tourists from the area and beyond,” says Sabrina. Her The Stouffville studio is busy with classroom workshops.
11-year-old daughter likes to help in the Stouffville loca- We’ve been invited to paint with students in almost all our
tion; you’ll often find Christina there, whereas Sabrina’s town’s schools and daycares from preschool to high school.
14-year-old son Alex prefers the trendier vibe in Unionville. Their workshops can be curriculum based, to make holiday
Sabrina has lived in Stouffville since 1994. She and Leo gifts or just for fun. Busing is expensive for school trips
raised their kids here. Her son is off to Stouffville High this so having an in-house field trip is a very wise choice for
fall. She laughs that once in a while she will be shopping teachers. Sabrina loves to see her little customers in their
somewhere in town and will overhear a local kid whisper to classrooms, “They are so excited to have me there and show
their mom – “It’s the crock-a-doodle-lady.” Sabrina laughs me around!”
and loves it. Leaving a stressful corporate life behind Birthday parties are definitely the bread and butter of
her Sabrina recalls how she changed her life completely. the business with up to 8 every weekend per studio report-
While on vacation she visited Crock A Doodle in the Blue ed Sabrina – “And that’s for all ages, we’ve celebrated from 1
Mountain Village. “It was one of the few times where I was to 70 years old.” Our parties are a hit every time for girls and
relaxed and the whole family was having fun. I told my hus- boys of all ages. Crock A Doodle also offers a Birthday Club
band that one day I would own one too. It took several years with over 5000 members in her locations. In the month of
to make the change, but I did it,” said Sabrina. “I feel like I’ve their birthday registered children under 12 years receive
retired (she’s not that old) – no more alarm clocks, suits, a voucher to paint a free Art Tile.
union negotiations, commuting or crisis. It’s busy owning There’s something new to discover at Crock A Doodle
the two studios but in no way is it stressful or draining on every season; although spring and summer are fun,
the soul.” Sabrina’s favourite is the fall; pumpkins and fun Halloween
She says that Crock A Doodle works as a business model figurines that lead right into the holidays where the studio
because people these days want to unplug from their busy, transforms into a winter wonderland including those tra-
tech-infused lives, they want to spend money on experienc- ditional light-up ceramic Christmas trees we all remem-
es, not just stuff. You don’t need to be an artist or be creative; ber. This fall she’ll be launching a new Trivia Night series
it’s fun art, not fine art so anything goes! No appointments of events.
necessary to come into a Crock A Doodle – you just grab Visiting Sabrina was educational and stimulating, and
a piece of pottery from the endless selection generally in besides that, I can say I met the “crock-a-doodle-lady.”
the range of $8-$30 and sit and paint it in the bright and
colourful studio. There’s a 3-5 day turn around for it to be
kiln-fired. They also offer convenient Doodle-To-Go kits so Crock A Doodle
you can bring the experience home or to the cottage, etc. 905-640-1284
The Stouffville studio is 3-years old this fall but every 15 Ringwood Drive
day she and her friendly staff are still greeting brand new crockadoodle.com/stouffville
12 COVER STORY Newsflash:
Fast Eddie Motorfest
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 7AM-4PM
TEVA GROUNDS, LOCATED AT 5691 MAIN STREET, STOUFFVILLE
Rain Date: September 14 Info: www.motorfest.ca
FAST EDDIE MOTORFEST
The 21st annual Fast Eddie Motorfest rolls back into Stouffville on
Saturday, September 7th at the TEVA Grounds in Stouffville. The event
features a spectacular display of Classics, Muscle Cars, Street Rods,
Tuners & Agriculture Vehicles.
Stouffville Motorfest was started by Eastridge Church in 1998. It was
created to provide a quality classic and special interest vehicle experi-
ence and to raise money for charity. The first show began with 45 vehi-
cles and grew to over 1,200 vehicles.
A few years ago, Eastridge Church announced that the leadership and
direction of Stouffville Motorfest is moving to Fast Eddie Racewear to
take the show to the next level.
Every year, thousands of dollars of proceeds from the event are donat-
ed to the Stouffville Food Bank, Stopgap Foundation and Stouffville
Legion.
A special Fast Eddie retail booth will be set up at Motorfest. This is a
Jamie Hakonson
family friendly event, so bring the kids & spend the day enjoying many
summers for the family company – folding enough practical knowledge, so she went off to university to “get the great activities including, a fantastic line up of live entertainment, food
shirts, prepping for trade shows and filing. theory”. She came back from Brock University with a Bachelor’s in truck vendors, kid zones and more.
Weekends were devoted to racing where she Business with Honours in Marketing and a second degree in Sports
BEYOND FAST AND FURIOUS organized the day and the guys, and recorded
stats and times. She met Jay Hathaway at the
and Exercise Management.
Upon returning, Jamie partnered with Tony Paton and her
NEW THIS YEAR
• Kubota On Tour: a 53' rolling Kubota display.
We met up with Jamie at the headquarters We had Jamie pose for a photo in front of track when she was 16. Jay is from Southwest sister, Jessica, to create Fast Eddie Racewear. Fast Eddie initially • The Grey Cup: handle it and take your photo with it.
of Fast Eddie Racewear and Choko Authentics. the car. Jamie was due to have a baby two days Ontario and she admired his skill. She later focused on crew uniforms, fire suits, gloves and boots. They were
• Vintage Motorcycles
She is the VP Operations, Sales & Marketing after press time of September’s OTR; she has suggested that Ed recruit him as a driver. Ed designing apparel with pencils and crayons, and faxing designs to
for both Fast Eddie and Choko. She is also never looked so good or happy. Jay came in 6th did, and Jay has been with him since 2006. be manufactured in Toronto. “We had tiny offices and were selling • The Monster Truck
Co-Owner and Founder of Fast Eddie, along place in that race, but later made an incredi- Choko continued to evolve as a company. to our friends,” said Jamie. “But we couldn't rely on friends alone, so • Automotive Parts Swap Meet
with Tony Paton. Jamie Hakonson is a woman ble come from behind win in Nova Scotia and The offices moved out of the home and into we started licensing brands like Choko to grow the business.” OK • Expanded Kidzone
of many talents and responsibilities. She celebrated his 10th career win in the series. 82 Sandiford, behind where McDonalds is Tire has been with Fast Eddie for 14 years. Fast Eddie later picked
Bring a non-perishable food item with you. They will be collecting food
comes by it honestly, being born and raised Jamie has been around racetracks since she located. Her mother started a side compa- up Mitsubishi and Mazda. They also work with teams, businesses,
at the gate for the Stouffville Food Bank.
in a unique family of entrepreneurs that has was two years old, as her father, Ed Hakonson, ny there named Stitchco that specialized in charities, and special events producing custom apparel.
tentacles into all sorts of related industries. loves motorsports. The original family embroidery. As a sideline, the family opened Three years ago, Jamie married Jay Hathaway. They built a house
On the side, Jamie is the Team Manager for home and business headquarters for Choko a motorsports themed restaurant that her next to Ed’s on Aurora Rd., as did her sister. Jamie’s brother Brad is
EHR’s (Ed Hakonson Racing) Team 3 Orange, Authentics was at Kennedy and Stouffville Aunt Debby ran where the Wishing Well a builder - he built both houses and the Choko headquarters. Jamie
that competes in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series. Roads, roughly where the Springvale Church’s Health Centre is currently located. Choko has her hands in a lot of things and excels at all of them. She has
Her husband, Jay Hathaway, is the driver. He parking lot exists today. Choko began with began providing apparel for the automotive had the right mix of being raised by an entrepreneurial family and
and his crew were preparing to leave that day making and distributing low pressure tire racing scene, and the ‘Big 3’ auto makers of having practical work experience from the ground up, backed by
for a race in Trois Rivières, QC. She asked if gauges, and later introduced custom snowmo- GM, Chrysler and Ford. Choko also creates, theoretical knowledge gained in education. She's beyond fast and
we wanted to see the car before it got loaded. bile suits. Jamie started helping the company designs and distributes apparel for Snap- furious.
We did. A short drive to the family homestead at the age of five, filing paperwork and answer- On, Kubota, and Case IH, and own their own
on Aurora Rd. brought us to EHR’s headquar- ing the phone. She was the eldest of four kids brands, including Tool Crazy and Farmers Fast Eddie Racewear
ters. Jay and the team were busily preparing and had a lot of responsibilities. Feed Families. 1-800-383-4940
for the race. She attended Stouffville High and worked By the end of high school Jamie felt she had fasteddieracewear.com
14 WHAT'S ON
WHAT'S ON 15
19 ON THE PARK WS MUSEUM
Presents Presents
Get Cooking!
Berenstain Bears On Stage PA DAY WORKSHOPS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 11AM & 2PM MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 9AM-4PM
19 on the Park & To Be Determined Theatre and find high jinks around every corner! We Your 5-12 year old will learn to cook a variety
In late July, Mayor Lovatt officially Co. present Berenstain Bears On Stage with watch as the bears weave from one adventure of seasonal recipes while working in historic
announced the 1st Annual Mayor’s Gala live music, dance and endless fun this musical to next, and just like in the stories, the musical and modern kitchens. Crafts, games and a
#ForStouffville in support of the newly combines five of The Berenstain Bears stories. teaches us lessons along the way. With the tour of the Museum included. Before and
created Whitchurch-Stouffville Legacy Fund Narrated by the world's foremost expert on same charm and nostalgia as the books we After Care available. $40 for Members, $50
(WSLF) – a fund created to help support the the Berenstain Bears, guitar-strumming have read for generations this action packed for Non-Members. Get Cooking! is available
financial needs and efforts of local service Cowboy Joe, is the show's stage director— production brings these stories to life with for the October 21 PA Day as well.
groups and charities. introducing and commenting on the play's live music, singing, dance, and fun around The special exhibit Archaeology Alive!
This inaugural Gala #ForStouffville, is five episodes. Based on five classic Berenstain every corner. This adaptation is a perfect fit The Jean-Baptiste Lainé Site in Whitchurch-
happening Friday, September 20, and will be Bears books; The Berenstain Bears' New Baby, for grades K – 3 or for the whole family! Stouffville is still on at the Museum. Be sure
hosted on the grounds of the stunning Willow The Berenstain Bears and the Messy Room, Tickets are in the range of $18-23. not to miss it!
Springs Winery. The evening will include The Berenstain Bears and the Double Dare,
cocktails, dinner, silent auction, entertain- The Berenstain Bears Tell the Truth & The 19 on the Park W-S Museum
ment and the presentation of Community Berenstain Bears Get Stage Fright. 19 Civic Avenue 14732 Woodbine Ave.
Impact Awards. “This event will join corpo- We follow the bears and as well as some 905-640-2322 905-727-8954
rations, local businesses and residents for a other familiar faces from the series as they get www.19onthepark.ca www.wsmuseum.ca
spectacular evening in hope to raise an esti- COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD CATEGORIES into sticky spots, make interesting decisions,
mated $100,000 in support of the WSLF," said
HEALTHY WS
Mayor Lovatt. The first intake deadline for
Promoting healthy active living in Whitchurch-Stouffville
grant/donation requests is October 31, 2019.
CONNECTED WS WHO WILL BE
The event has already sold out: 350 tickets Creating a more inclusive Whitchurch-Stouffville
OUR NEXT
SUSTAINABLE WS
The evening will culminate with a spe-
Encouraging a healthy and sustainable environment in Whitchurch-Stouffville FEDERAL
cial ceremony recognizing the first ever
Community Impact Awards. These awards, CREATIVE WS REPRESENTATIVE
created to celebrate the outstanding con- Enriching the Whitchurch-Stouffville community through arts, culture or heritage
A Federal Candidates Meeting is
tributions of local residents, will recognize
GENERATIONAL WS scheduled for Tuesday, October 1,
remarkable individuals in specific areas.
Supporting the well-being of Whitchurch-Stouffville children, Youth & Seniors Stouffville District Secondary School, 801
Submissions for nominations were accepted
Hoover Park Drive, Stouffville. Meet the
until July 31. PROSPEROUS WS
Candidates: 6-7pm., and the Candidates
“We are so pleased with the creation of our Demonstrates economic or other benefit to the Whitchurch-Stouffville community
Meeting: 7-9 pm.
WS Legacy Fund, The Community Impact
Everyone is welcome to attend.
Awards, and The Mayor’s Gala #ForStouffville,”
Admission is FREE. The event is being
said Mayor Iain Lovatt. “These vehicles were WINNERS hosted by the Whitchurch-Stouffville
constructed with the specific goal to assist,
Public Library and the Stouffville
protect, develop and celebrate the residents HEALTHY WS • Antonietta Botticelli Chamber of Commerce.
of Whitchurch-Stouffville.”
SUSTAINABLE WS • Roger Davidson
Usually the winners of award ceremonies
are kept secret until the event, but not in CREATIVE WS • Colin Whitebread
this case. Those nominated with majority by GENERATIONAL WS • Rochelle D’Souza
the public have been announced prior to the
PROSPEROUS WS • Shaen Armstrong
event.
For more information about the CONNECTED WS • Lisa Ronco
Whitchurch-Stouffville Legacy Fund, see CONNECTED WS • Anna Trokova Dimovski (posthumously)
www.wslegacyfund.com.
16 NEED TO KNOW
A LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS, WITH A PROVINCIAL REACH
Borlak Law Office is a unique entity in and knowledge in the P&C industry translates were known, above all, for their honesty.
Stouffville, not only for their beautiful her- well to other businesses as well, and they are Steve graduated university with a degree Markham beside the Buttonville airport. “I got colours calming.” There are several other Steve emphasized how important it is for
itage office building at the corner of Main & happy to work with private businesses in in Chemistry in 1976, in Law in 1979, and was lazy,” said Steve, and started looking in 2015 Morrisseau paintings displayed in the them to be a part of the community – a trait he
Park, or for the indigenous art collection in other industries (e.g. service, real estate, man- called to the Bar in 1981. He started articling for an office closer to home. The beautiful her- boardroom. learned from his parents. Even if the work of
the boardroom, or for it being a family busi- ufacturing), however small or large. and practicing law at Borden and Elliot (now itage home turned-office at the corner of Main Their son, Jesse, has recently joined the Borlak Law is spread across Ontario, they have
ness that works in harmony. Borlak is unique I met Steve Borlak and his son Jesse in their known as BLG), where his future wife Marie and Park wasn’t for sale, but – “My wife is very firm. He was formerly an insurance broker, become members of the Stouffville Chamber
because they specialize in the Property and boardroom. They immediately confessed that also worked as a law clerk. He met Marie persistent,” he said. It is a handsome building, working in Richmond Hill and Concord, but and initiated a local lawyer’s group that
Casualty Insurance Industry (P&C) in Canada, Steve’s wife Marie made them dress up for the while coaching their firm girls’ softball team. full of character and history. It is amazingly later went to Law School at Sussex University has collaborative meetings. Steve was very
which reaches far beyond Stouffville. interview. Steve joked that he forgot to pack “Marie played on 2nd base, but she wasn’t very quiet considering they are twenty feet off in the UK. Jesse was called to the Bar this past involved with Big Brothers as a big brother
P&C is Borlak’s happy place. They special- socks for the costume change (as seen in the good, so I moved her to right field, and then Main Street. The boardroom is adorned with June. “Now we have a succession plan,” said and on the York Region, Ontario, and National
ize in this industry by doing a myriad of legal photograph). “This is not my normal presen- she quit,” Steve recalled. Thankfully, despite Norval Morrisseau originals. Morrisseau was Steve, “and we are living it.” boards, and continues to support the charity.
work, such as helping brokerages to buy, sell tation – we are very casual,” said Steve. Steve this incident, they later married and have an Anishinaabe Aboriginal Canadian artist. “Our focus may be very niche,” says Jesse, “We want to play our part and immerse our-
or merge, facilitating corporate reorgani- provided background context for being busi- two sons and a daughter. Marie continued to “Why Morrisseau?” I asked. Steve tells a “but our [market] penetration is deep. We are selves into the community,” concluded Steve.
zation, financing, reviewing and drafting ness oriented. His mother (Marilyn Borlak) work for Borden and Elliot while Steve struck story – he tells a lot of stories and tells them uniquely placed to talk the same language as After my departure, I’m sure they happily
producer and employment agreements and and father (Harvey Borlak) purchased a hard- out on his own, including his own practice well: he was looking to buy a piece of art for the P&C industry, but we do everyday stuff changed back into their casual clothes and
assisting with succession planning. “When I ware store in 1948. They worked arm-in-arm in Woodbridge. One day Steve needed help. Marie’s birthday. He met an art collector too, such as wills and real estate.” Jesse enjoys resumed the family business.
was introduced to this industry in 1985 it was until around 1983. His family’s life revolved Marie came to the rescue. He asked her to friend, shared some scotch and “ended up his short commute from Newmarket through
a wasteland [for legal help]; no one was spe- around the family business. “We got to see stay. She did, and they have worked together being an art collector by the end of the eve- the countryside and mentions the daily sight- Borlak Law Office
cializing in it,” said Steve Borlak. They are a what running a business was all about and we in harmony since 1988. ning.” He bought an original Morrisseau, ing on Vivian Road of a pony that has befriend- 6372 Main Street
small town firm performing legal work usu- saw how they interacted with the community In 2011, the family moved to Vivian Rd., east which today still hangs in Marie’s office. “I ed a goat, and the “Canadian roadblock” geese 905-642-6661
ally reserved for downtown firms. Their work as respected businesspeople,” he said. They of Highway 48. Their office at the time was in don’t know much about art, but I find the along Musselman’s Lake. www.borlak.ca
18 GEAR UP
NATURE'S GIFTS AND ORGANIC SPA
Nature’s Gift and Organic Spa opened in counselling, acupuncture, meditation and peels, essential oils, natural suntan lotions
Downtown Stouffville last April. I met with RMT massage therapy. and mosquito repellents. There’s Krystal
and pre-interviewed Janice Patera, spa owner The Salt Cave is all about Salt Therapy, also jewelry made in Uxbridge, Karamella Designs
and Ballantrae resident, when she opened, but known as halotherapy. With the help of a salt jewelry from Brooklin, Purple Lotus hand-
really wanted to give her a chance to settle in generator and over 11 tons of Himalayan salt crafted necklaces from Markham, and glass
before featuring the establishment in OTR. they have endeavored to recreate the healing friendship balls and birdfeeders made in
The space has matured nicely over the sum- microclimate of the ancient underground Fergus. There are smudging materials from
mer. The front of house entry room, reception salt caves. Himalayan Salt is rich in negative various Reserves, spirit animals for medi-
and spa retail space is naturally bright with ions and minerals. During a salt room ses- tation, incense from the Danforth, natural
a good view of Main Street. On one side is a sion, negative ions are absorbed into the body soaps made in Penetanguishene, and a vari-
well-crafted reception desk made from dif- by breathing the saturated air into the lungs. ety of candles and bees wax products from
ferent wood materials with a wooden back- The salt is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammato- Oshawa and Collingwood. Finally, there are
drop on the wall. Katherine is sitting at the ry, anti-viral, and anti-fungal. During your Juice Plus+ products and a unique Tower
desk. She’s warm, friendly and young, and 45-minute session, you will relax in com- Garden product that grows vegetables and
as it turns out, a member of our Whitchurch fortable chairs, listen to soothing music, and herbs vertically, inside or out.
horse-culture. breath air that is saturated with 84 minerals The coolest part of this visit was having
A doorway leads into the spa area. The door and trace elements. Janice and Katherine tour me around explain
is shut and has a sign stating, ‘spa is in use’. Currently, the RMTs and the aesthetician are what everything is and what it is used for. The
I saw a gentleman go in there shortly after I the leading draw at Nature’s Gift and Organic side conversation was educational. I highly
arrived, presumably for a lunch-time spa Spa, followed by the Salt Cave, but it’s early on recommend taking that tour. We will revisit
treatment or rejuvenation break. – a four-month measuring stick is short. The Nature’s Gift and Organic Spa for Christmas
Nature’s Gift and Organic Spa, as a business, fifth element, the Spa Retail Area, is organized shopping to see how everyone can Gear Up.
has five-elements: Spa, Medi-Spa, Wellness, and full of earth friendly organic products.
The Salt Cave, and the Spa Retail Area. The Almost all products originate in Ontario, with
Spa includes organic facials, body wraps, exception to products such as Himalayan Bath Nature’s Gift and Organic Spa
and microdermabrasion. The Medi-Spa is all Sea Salts – a half bag in your bath is supposed to 905-591-1115
about improving skin and removing wrin- be the equivalent to a 3-day detox. 6312 Main St
kles and hair through various techniques. In the retail area there are all-natural prod- naturesgiftsandorganicspa.ca
The Wellness area includes osteopathy, ucts for face and body, including all-naturalYou can also read
