In response to the challenging times that we are experiencing together regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to give props to some stellar local businesses who are stepping up to serve our great community.
Featured this Week:
EarlyON Child & Family Centres, Muskoka Facebook Page: EarlyON Muskoka
EarlyON Child and Family Centres throughout Muskoka are directly operated by the District of Muskoka to serve families and caregivers with children under the age of six years. They offer a variety of programs across the District, such as: Baby Talk, Parent Chats, free drop-in programs, networking and support for families. Through EarlyON, families receive support that helps them navigate the journey of childhood, build on their own strengths, make connections and develop relationships so that everyone can learn and grow together. They currently serve over 700 families throughout Muskoka and connect with many other children service agencies across the District to ensure families are fully supported.
EarlyON is funded by the Ministry of Education and on March 13, 2020 they were told to close all drop-in centres due to Covid-19. Just days later, EarlyON began offering virtual programs; a variety of which have evolved and grown over the past nine months. Despite the need to close the drop-in centres they knew staying connected was critical for families. They began Wellness Calls to check-in with everyone and ensure they understood the supports that were available – from the food banks to how to apply for CERB. EarlyON then began Zoom programs, in particular, Baby Talk (for families with little ones from 0 – 18 months) so new moms could connect and form a virtual community. They also invited numerous guest speakers to address needs within the community. EarlyON launched a Parent Chat Zoom, providing a space for parents to share not only concerns but also a giggle. Through the summer they began doing Pop-ups in public spaces to inform families of our services and hand-out activity bags. It was a great way to have in-person connection that was physically safe. The EarlyON team has been innovative throughout the pandemic, always striving to find creative ways to support families.
EarlyON’s plan is to continue to provide virtual programs and Wellness calls, as not all families will be comfortable returning to in-person programs. Come December, they hope to begin outdoor in-person programs in each of the six municipalities across Muskoka. These will emphasize the importance to get outdoors for everyone’s mental health as well as model how simple and impactful outdoor play can be on a child’s development. EarlyON is committed to adhering to the health and safety guidelines provided by the local health department.
We think it is amazing what EarlyON has done not only for children in our community, but for parents and entire families. That they were so quick to respond to the closure of their drop-in centres with virtual programming is an incredible testament to their teams’ dedication and passion to serving families in our great community. We want to acknowledge all of their hard work and thank them for everything that they do. Keep up the great work!!
In response to the challenging times that we are experiencing together regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to give props to some stellar local businesses who are stepping up to serve our great community.
Lake of Bays Brewing Co. opened their doors in 2010, starting out as a brewery in Baysville, Ontario. Since then, they’ve expanded their beer lineup to include everything from Light Lagers to Double IPA’S to Stout’s. In 2018, they ventured off into the world of restaurants and opened the Huntsville Brewhouse, known for their delicious locally sourced menu and in-house brews. After the success of the Brewhouse, Lake of Bays Brewing Co. wanted to introduce their wide array of beers and menu options to the beautiful town of Bracebridge, and that’s how the Bracebridge Barrelhouse came to be. Located at 295 Wellington Street, the Barrelhouse has quickly become a favourite among locals eager enough to venture into the beautiful new space.
The original plan for the Barrelhouse was to open the restaurant back in the Spring. However, when COVID-19 hit, that put a delay on their plans. But, their team worked extremely hard they were able to open their doors in mid-August.
Since then, they have put several measures in place to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable visit at both the Huntsville Brewhouse and Bracebridge Barrelhouse. You’ll be met by their lovely host who will ask you to sanitize your hands before being seated. Tables are spaced out 6ft apart, making sure guests are staying socially distant. All staff are required to wear their masks, and continually sanitize areas in the restaurant. For those who prefer, the Barrelhouse is taking limited reservations every day. They are also offering take-out, so you can still take home their delicious menu.
The Bracebridge Barrelhouse currently has a beer on tap called Paws of the North, where a dollar from every pint is donated to Paws of the North Rescue here in Muskoka! They also just launched their Toasty Toes pack this year, which features two mystery beers, and 1 of 4 socks in each pack. Lastly, they are constantly rotating their taps at the restaurants since they brew-in house, so there is always something new and exciting to try!
We think it is incredible what the Bracebridge Barrelhouse has been able to do in such a short period of time, especially through these challenging times! It is certainly a testament to their dedicated, hard-working team to have pulled this together and we are grateful to have this new, exciting restaurant destination right here in the heart of Muskoka. Keep up the amazing work!
Be sure to follow the Bracebridge Barrelhouse on Facebook & Instagram.
If you know a local business who deserves a shout out, send us a direct message with a photo and why they should be featured.
In response to the challenging times that we are experiencing together regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to give props to some stellar local businesses who are stepping up to serve our great community.
The Gravenhurst Public Library was founded in 1883 as a small Mechanics’ Institute and grew to a larger Library housed in the Carnegie Building with a $7,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie in 1923. In 2000, an even bigger space was purpose-built for the Library at 180 Sharpe Street West and that is where they called home for the last 20 years. What makes the Library special is their relationship with the Gravenhurst Archives, their outreach connection to numerous community organizations, the wide variety of their collection and their dedicated group of staff and board members.
Like so many organizations and businesses, Covid-19 significantly affected the Library. At the start of the pandemic, they were forced to close their doors to the public. Typically, the public relies on and accesses the Library on a daily basis – such as for accessing materials, use of the computer workstations & WiFi or to attend programs. With the Library’s closure, they had to get creative and do some reinventing. They launched a curbside pick-up service and found ways to connect with people via phone, e-mail, and social media. They also went as far as to deliver materials to people who were unable to visit the Library.
The Gravenhurst Public Library also produced high-quality virtual children’s programming this past summer that was made available through their social media accounts. While the volume of programs offered has reduced since the end of summer with students having returned to school, the Library is still offering virtual Storytime on Tuesdays for pre-schoolers and on Sundays for adults. They are currently planning to launch some new virtual programming in late fall geared to kids ages 6 to 12.
Looking to the future, once the Gravenhurst Public Library re-opens to the public, patrons will be required to wear masks and to sanitize their hands before entering. Plexi-glass guards will be in place at all desks. The Library will also be limiting numbers and length of visits to 45-minute appointments as to allow staff the chance to clean between patrons. Visitors will be able to use the public workstations, access the WiFi, browse the shelves, as well as print, scan and fax with staff assistance. The curbside pick-up and delivery service will remain available as well.
With the Library’s closure they have also been able to complete some much needed upgrades to the building’s interior such as new paint, carpeting and a yet-to-be installed new front desk. They have also added new moveable shelving to the main floor so that they can open it up and use the space in the future for larger programs.
We are simply blown away by the ingenuity and resilience that the Gravenhurst Public Library has shown through this pandemic. We want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of everyone from their team to persevere through these challenging times and to continue to look for ways to serve our great community. Thank you to everyone from the Library!!
Be sure to follow the Gravenhurst Public Library on Facebook & Instagram
If you know a local business who deserves a shout out, send us a direct message with a photo and why they should be featured.
In response to the challenging times that we are experiencing together regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to give props to some stellar local businesses who are stepping up to serve our great community.
Belly Artisan Ice Cream was first created 10 years ago, when then Chef, Shelley Westgarth had twins and wanted to explore a new opportunity. She started at the local farmers markets around Muskoka and quickly found success supplying clients like Whole Foods, The Royal York Hotel, Fortinos, and even Google with her delicious artisan ice cream. Ten years later, Belly has grown into their own custom-built manufacturing facility in Huntsville (at 88/90 West Road), and has been featured on the Food Network’s Food Factory, and Dragon’s Den – twice!
In response to Covid-19, Belly launched curbside pick-up just as the pandemic was shutting down businesses all over the world. As a result, Belly had their busiest season ever! With a new demand for local products and a real desire to support small Canadian businesses, the Huntsville community fully embraced the new concept. It was so successful that Belly has decided to keep the service permanently.
This winter, for the first time ever, Belly will be staying open all season with a new expanded product line of take home desserts to pair with their handcrafted ice creams. Launching this weekend, Belly will be offering Sticky Toffee Pudding, Keto Pies, Keto Caramel sauce, Croissant Dulce de Leche, Bread Pudding and a number of other homemade treats. This Christmas, they will be selling their frozen Cookie dough balls for thaw-and-bake at home in 8 flavours that patrons can pick and mix how ever they like!
Talk about tackling adversity head-on! We think it is incredible to see an entrepreneur who, when faced with a challenge, rose to it and found a way to continue serving the local community. It is certainly an inspiring story and we want to recognize Shelley and her team at Belly for their hard work and commitment to the community. Way to go guys! We can’t wait to try some of these new menu offerings!!
Belly’s Curb-side Ordering Portal can be found here.
In response to the challenging times that we are experiencing together regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to give props to some stellar local businesses who are stepping up to serve our great community.
Owned and Operated by Robert & Ashley Moody at 205 Margaret Street in Gravenhurst, Iron Lodge Fitness has been open for 3 years. They offer personal training, small group classes, 24-hr open-gym access, nutrition coaching, meal planning and remote training. More than a business, Iron Lodge prides themselves on being a tight-knit, supportive community of like-minded individuals who are motivated to help each other achieve their personal goals.
As was the case for everyone, the arrival of COVID-19 had a significant impact on Iron Lodge and their business. To add complexity to the situation, Robert and Ashley had just welcomed their second baby into the world the very week before the shutdown. Determined not to give up, the dedicated couple quickly pivoted to offering online classes and even loaned out all of their gym equipment – for FREE – to their members. They also began shooting and sharing full home workout videos through their social media channels – which included a team-up with the local Chamber of Commerce – in an effort to keep the community moving and healthy.
When the weather began to warm up in June, Iron Lodge partnered with the Town of Gravenhurst to offer outdoor workouts across various parks throughout the community. By the time July rolled around, Iron Lodge made modifications to their gym space and were able to host workouts in their parking lot. “It was hot some days, and it was cold somedays, but our members were so happy to be outside and getting back into somewhat of a ‘normal’ routine” Robert told us. Towards the end of July, Iron Lodge was finally given the green light to resume indoor training. They have taken great strides to ensure the safety of everyone in their space by having participants clean everything they touch before and after every class.
Looking ahead, Iron Lodge Fitness seeks to grow their following to reach more people and to help with their health, fitness and happiness. They are a family-run business committed to re-investing into the surrounding community. They have previously partnered with the local Girl Guides chapter and the local high school to help the next generation about the basics of health & fitness and to get them started on the right path early.
We want to acknowledge the tremendous hard work, spirit and dedication to the community that Iron Lodge has shown though the pandemic. To think that they managed all of this on top of a newborn earlier this year is just incredible. They have the right mind-set and we want to applaud them for all that they’re doing. Keep up the great work guys, we’re proud to share the community with such an inspiring group of people!
In response to the challenging times that we are experiencing together regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to give props to some stellar local businesses who are stepping up to serve our great community.
Rich Hill Candles & Gifts has been making the warmth and romance of candlelight since 1970. Owned and operated by the Francis family, and now in the second generation of ownership, they offer a full range of candles made right here in Bracebridge. They make anything from as small as a t-lite right up to large jar candles that weigh up to 15lbs!
After a devastating fire in 2018 they were finally able to re-open at their new location at 193 Manitoba Street in 2019. But just as things seemed to be getting back to normal, adversity struck again with the arrival of the global pandemic. When Rich Hill had to close the doors in March of this year, they continued to adapt by offering free delivery within the Muskoka area. They also offered curbside pick-up and continued to do everything they could to continue serving their loyal supporters.
Despite these challenges – a major fire and Covid-19 – Rich Hill also made the lead and jumped online. They have developed a brand new website and are preparing to launch their e-commerce platform (online shopping) within the next dew days! We have also heard that they plan to move back into their old location – which has been re-built – on Robert Dollar Drive and will be maintaining both stores!
We are simply blown away by the resiliency and flexibility of Rich Hill and the Francis family. It may have been the easy thing to just throw in the towel and look to something else after either major hurdle that came their way over the last two years, but their passion and their dedication to the community carried them through. When Rich Hill was nominated for this #MBWShoutOut, the one word that stood out to us was that they were considered an “institution of Bracebridge” and we couldn’t agree more. Kudos to the Rich Hill family and their amazing team.
You can follow Rich Hill Candles & Gifts on Facebook and/or Instagram or visit their website to learn more!
If you know a local business who deserves a shout out, send us a direct message with a photo and why they should be featured.
