Our Favourite Picks for Autumn 2012
Our own highly selective “picks” of just some of the things that make life such a distinctive pleasure here in the hills.
Must tour
As surely as the leaves turn to gold, September and October offer a cornucopia of art as local artists open their studios to the public. One of the best ways to enjoy both the art and the colourful splendour of the hills at the same time is to take a leisurely drive along the back roads during one of the annual self-guided studio tours. For maps and details about the artists participating in each tour, visit their websites.
Hills of Erin Studio Tour
September 15 & 16, 22 & 23
hillsoferinstudiotour.com
Caledon Hills Studio Tour
September 22 & 23, 29 & 30
caledonhillsstudiotour.com
North of 89 Studio Tour
September 29 & 30
northof89.ca
And a little farther afield and later in the year,
Innisfil Studio Tour
November 3 & 4
innisfilstudiotour.ca
Must cycle
Describing the Town of Mono as “Ontario’s cycling jewel,” the HB Cycling Club and the town’s recreation committee are hosting a day of cycling called Mono On A Bike (MOAB). On Sunday, September 23, cyclists of all ages are invited to bring their hybrid or mountain bikes and “ride at whatever pace you want” on the town’s scenic roads and along the trails in Mono Cliffs Park. You can even stop for drinks and snacks organizers provide along the way. There are four tours, including a 64km enduro, a 32km challenge, a 15km family course, and 5km kids’ course. Fees range from $25 to $45, and the kids’ course is free.
Things get underway at 10am at Mono Community Centre in Mono Centre and end with a party featuring a beer garden and live music. For more information, see hbcc.ca. Register at zone4.ca.
Must attend
It’s been exactly 2oo years since the war that began with the United States hoping to annex Upper and Lower Canada from the British Empire and ended in what many consider a draw, but not before Washington burned. If all you know about the War of 1812 is that General Brock died victorious at Queenston Heights, there’s a great chance to swot up some history at a dinner and presentation by Dr. Alan Taylor, professor of American and Canadian history, University of California. The Pulitzer Prize-winning author will discuss the war with reference to American citizens, British subjects, Irish rebels and Indian allies.
The evening will also feature special guest Reginald King, a descendant of First Nations war chief Ogemaiwajiwon, 1812 re-enactors, a display of artifacts and a silent auction. It will be moderated by this magazine’s favourite history buff, Ken Weber.
It all takes place on Friday, November 2, from 6 to 10pm, at Hockley Valley Resort. Tickets are $125 (group discounts avail- able) at Hockley Valley Resort, Olde Stanton Store, F-Stop Cameras, BookLore and Dufferin County Museum. Proceeds to help preserve the historic 1863 Stanton Hotel in Mulmur. Email [email protected] for more information.
Must fill bowls
Soup season is upon us and there is no better way to enjoy it than at the third annual Empty Bowls at the Alton Mill on Sunday, October 21. When you buy delicious soup in a handmade bowl, you get to keep the bowl and help fight hunger in our community – all proceeds from the event go to local food banks. The beautiful bowls are made and donated by local potters. The event takes place in Paul Morin’s Gallery at the south end of the Mill. Morin is the artist featured on the cover of this issue. Lunch is served from 11:3oam to 2pm, and dinner from 3:3o to 5pm. Soup with keepsake bowl is $35.
Must demystify
Still scratching your greying head over Facebook and Twitter, but kind of itching to start a blog? Dufferin Arts Council has come to the rescue with a series of three seminars targeting aging boomers (and older) who want to get with the program. Silver Surfers: Social Media Demystified will be led by social media specialist Stephanie Dixon who uses simple, straightforward instruction to help you get comfortable with the new communication tools. The Friday sessions take place on September 21, 28 and October 5 from 1:30 to 3:30pm at the Orangeville Public Library, 275 Alder St. See dufferinartscouncil.com for details or call 519-927-5939.