Welcome to Places Magazine!

The Summer issue is finally here! So grab your sunscreen and join us for an exciting look at Summer in Simcoe!

July 22nd marks the beginning of Collingwood's Elvis Presley Festival! This festival brings music, food, fun and sideburns to the streets of collingwood. Not only will you see many instances of the popular singer, you will be transformed by the sounds and sights that have made this festival such a unique experience! We hope to see you there!

The SUMMER Issue of PLACES MAGAZINE

is available for PageFlip Viewing!

 

 

Also in this issue is a trip back in time to visit some of Oro's first black settlers.The black settlement at Oro was not, as oral tradition would have it, a northern terminus of the “Underground Railroad.” In fact, it was the result of government policy to settle Loyalist black refugees, who may have been escaped slaves, free men, or veterans of the War of 1812. The outbreak of the war caused apprehension among black settlers in Upper Canada, who feared an American victory might bring a return to slavery. As a result, free blacks, and many escaped slaves, volunteered to fight for the British. One noted militia unit was Captain Runchey’s Company for Coloured Men, which saw action at Stoney Creek, Queenston Heights, Lundy’s Lane, and St. David’s. Veterans of Runchey’s Company were among the black settlers in Oro. more

Local artist Rachel Bradbury gives you a peak at the creative process and a look at some of her most inspirational pieces! Rachel immerses herself in all avenues within the art community. Currently working at Curry’s art store she gains understanding from a larger art community and has access to a wider array of materials and mediums.

Chis Root from the Black Tooth Grin Bike Shop in Barrie also makes an appearance in the Summer issue of Places. As Chris takes a humorous look at the differences between "raw-lee" and "baw-haw", we get front row seats to his childhood tragedy.

Also in this issue, Ed Hunt of Hunt Fitness in Midland will show you how to turn back the hands of time by adopting a healthier lifestyle. This is not an editorial on how your life is killing you. This is a reminder that this year you can make yourself younger next year by committing to the following lifestyle habits.

We wish you all the best this Summer and hope you have as much fun reading this issue as we have had making it.

 

note from the editor

Break out the sunscreen! Weather forecasters are predicting more of the same record-breaking temperatures this summer that we saw pretty much throughout the spring season. This certainly is motivation enough to get out and enjoy the sights and sounds that make Simcoe County such a popular Ontario destination.

Our family has certainly taken full advantage of this unusually warm weather - experiencing the great fun of a newly opened adventure park, a visit to the zoo, the relaxation to be had at a popular spa, a number of days on the golf links, an evening at the theatre, a round of mini putt with the kids, a boat show, a waterfront festival, and of course sprinkled in this mix a variety of local dining and shopping experiences. It is my hope that your family and friends are equally enjoying the local sights and sounds that are just a short drive away from where you live or where you are visiting.

The attractions, the great number of festivals and events, and the incredible variety of happenings available within the local region is outstanding. In the following pages of this summer edition we are excited to present some of the more interesting highlights, attractions and events that are taking place in the coming weeks and months.

PLACES is about lifestyle and the promise of a more active and fulfilling experience – I hope you enjoy our summer read!

 

- Elissa Balfour