Grey-Bruce Boomers Winter 2024-25

WINTER 2024/25 — Volume 11, Issue 4
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
Ten years. One decade. For a child, 10 years is a lifetime. For someone
turning 100, it’s a gift. For wine, it’s a goal. For a car, it’s time to start
shopping.
For our family at Grey-Bruce Boomers, it’s a proud milestone that we are
celebrating with this issue. When we launched our first publication, Grey-
Bruce Kids, 13 years ago, we received feedback from the grandparents of
Grey/Bruce that there should be a magazine for the over-50 age group.
Three years later, in 2014, we published the first issue of Grey-Bruce Boomers,
which I timed with my youngest starting Junior Kindergarten. She’s now in
Grade 9. The days are long, but the years are short.
CONTENTS
Bucket List • 4
Gut health • 10
Stargazing • 14
Culture of 'no' • 20
Fun in Phoenix • 24
Recipe • 30
I want to thank our loyal readers, both old and new, our writers, graphic
designers Becky Grebenjak and Jess Beaty, our distributors, and of course
our advertisers, without whom we couldn’t provide this free publication to
adults 50+ across Grey and Bruce counties.
In this issue you will find an interesting Bucket List feature about a Saugeen
Shores woman who turned a past tragedy into a career in comedy. Also
featured is group of intrepid adventurers who share their story of winter
camping under the stars in the Torrance Barren Reserve. A healthy gut’s
role in a longer life is the focus of Amanda Modaragamage’s story, while
Dan Herrick of Grey-Bruce Makers writes Space about writes the about importance the importance of not-for-
of
not-for-profits changing changing their mindset their to mindset one of to ‘yes’. one Finally, of ‘yes.’ readers Finally, will readers take a trip will
take to Phoenix a trip to with Phoenix Jill Ellis-Worthington.
with Jill Ellis-Worthington.
I hope you all have a safe and healthy winter and
thanks for 10 wonderful years!
Amy Irwin, Publisher
Grey-Bruce Boomers
WINTER 2024/25
Publisher
Amy Irwin
amy@greybruceboomers.com
Magazine Design
Becky Grebenjak
Advertising inquiries
amy@greybruceboomers.com
Grey-Bruce Boomers welcomes
your feedback.
EMAIL
amy@greybruceboomers.com
PHONE 519-524-0101
MAIL
P.O. Box 287, Ripley, ON N0G 2R0
Grey-Bruce Boomers is distributed for free in Grey and Bruce
counties, and is published each March, June, September, and
December. Distribution of this publication does not constitute
endorsement of information, products or services by Grey-Bruce
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Boomers reserves the right to edit, reject or comment on all material
and advertising contributed. No portion of Grey-Bruce Boomers may
be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.

THE BUCKET LIST
The power
of
Laughter
“LAUGHTER IS THE GREATEST WEAPON WE HAVE AND WE,
AS HUMANS, USE IT LEAST.” — MARK TWAIN
BY DOUG ARCHER
4 • GREYBRUCEBOOMERS.COM

by Doug Archer
THE BUCKET LIST
Jennifer O’Reilly believes in the power of laughter.
On any given weekend she can be found in a
comedy club, at a charity function, or in a Legion
Hall, dispensing what she calls, ‘the best medicine.’
“Gotta love aging,” the Saugeen Shores resident has
told audiences. “I asked my physician if there were
any perks to going through menopause and she told
me, ‘You won’t need to shave your legs anymore.’ I
replied, ‘Good, that will free up some time to tend to
the beard and moustache I’m growing.’”
Quick to point out that the word humour is derived
from a Latin word meaning to be in good health,
Jennifer champions the benefits of comedy, saying
that laughter makes challenges seem less threatening
and helps us cope better. It also takes our focus away
from guilt, anger and negative emotions, she said, and
tends to put us in a positive frame of mind.
She should know, too.
Jennifer has always been funny. Growing up, she
was the family jokester and a bit of a class clown,
entertaining relatives and classmates with personal
anecdotes, one-liners and wisecracks. That all stopped
on her first day of Grade 12 when her father died by
suicide.
“My world shattered,” she said. “And not just my
world. Our whole family was torn apart.”
WINTER 2024/25 • 5

THE BUCKET LIST
Jennifer’s grief was unimaginable. For a while
she bottled it up, but when she finally broke
down, the tears wouldn’t stop. She cried for
four months before finally seeking help through
the mental health and addiction program at
the Owen Sound hospital.
“One of the counselors in the program knew
from talking to my family that I could be funny,
and told me that I should use my humour to
help get past my grief,” Jennifer said. “That
didn’t seem right to me, and I told him that
losing my father the way I did was not a
laughing a matter. But the therapist told me
that’s where I was wrong – that humour is a
coping mechanism. I have since learned that he
was right – humour is the ability to find joy in
the face of adversity.”
Still, it wasn’t until she was in university that
Jennifer got serious about comedy. All because
of a dare.
“My roommate kept telling me I was funny. He
told me I was missing my calling and should be
up on stage at a comedy club. So, on a dare,
I entered the ‘Funniest Person in Hamilton’
contest at the Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Club.”
Of course, when it was time to climb onto the
stage, Jennifer was petrified.
“My stage fright was almost debilitating,”
she recalled. “I was so nervous I was actually
shaking. The judge told me afterward that I
was stepping on my own laughs, because I
was talking so fast, there was no time for the
audience to react.
“But I came third in the contest!” she added,
with a smile.
The power of humour in helping her deal with
her father’s death, coupled with her success in

by Doug Archer
front of an audience at Yuk Yuk’s, made Jennifer
realize that she wanted to spend her life making
people laugh. So, after a stint actually managing
the Yuk Yuk’s club in Hamilton and doing stand-up
first in Toronto and then Vancouver, she applied to
the Comedy Writing and Performance Program at
Humber College.
“Not only did I get in, but I actually graduated,”
she laughed. “And then I fulfilled a dream. I moved
to Saugeen Shores – a place where I had happy
memories of cottaging with my family as a young
girl – and launched Laugh Lessons.”
Offering sketch comedy and improvisation
workshops, Laugh Lessons took off. Soon companies,
organizations and schools were calling Jennifer not
only to give talks on the power of laughter, but to
teach life skills and facilitate team building using
improvisation exercises and comedy skits.
“Through comedy and improvisation, I try to teach
people about the physical, mental and social benefits
of laughter, and how to incorporate it into their daily
lives,” Jennifer said. “I believe that life skills can be
learned through comedy and improvisation – and
that those skills can be inspiring and everlasting!”
They can also be a little humbling. Just ask Jen’s
sister, Andrea.
With a PhD in Women’s Studies, Andrea was asked
to be the keynote speaker at an Ontario Teachers’
Federation conference in Toronto. Sensing an
opportunity for her sister, she suggested that Jennifer
approach the organizers about doing some comedy
and improvisation sketches at the same event – and
the organizers agreed. At the end of the conference,
Andrea was handed a $250 cheque; Jennifer got
double that for her skits.
“We still joke about that,” Jennifer said. “I tell her,
‘What did you expect, you only earned a PhD – I
went to clown school!’”
WINTER 2024/25 • 7

THE BUCKET LIST
by Doug Archer
Most of all though, she jokes about aging and
the ailments and infirmities that come with it.
Jokes like, “I recently went to a clairvoyant
with some women friends. They all wanted
to know about their love lives. I just wanted to
know if my hemorrhoids were going to flare
up.” Or, “I got re-married later in life and
when my husband Dean proposed to me I
wasn’t sure what he was saying because, well,
he didn’t have his teeth in. Then when I said,
‘Hey, let’s have a destination wedding.’ He
said, ‘I’m not going to Listowel.’”
As Jennifer put it, “Getting older is not for the
faint of heart – more than ever, as we age, we
need humour in our lives. If we don’t laugh,
we may just cry.”
Her humour is not all about clowning around though.
Jennifer has used improvisation and comedy workshops to
educate students on issues surrounding mental health.
“I go into schools and talk about the importance of
humour for mental well-being,” she said. “Then I get the
kids involved in improvisation. When they’re acting out the
scenarios I give them, they haven’t got time to think about
being embarrassed. I get them laughing and encourage
them to open up, to forget their stresses and fears for a
moment and take some risks, and, hopefully, build their
confidence. That’s what humour can do.”
Now in her early-60s, Jennifer is not slowing down. She is
still teaching comedy and improvisation to both adults and
students, and she still takes to the stage at charity events,
conferences, local Legions, and even retirement homes,
making people laugh with her stand-up routines.
As she gets older, and her audience gets older with her, she
makes sure her act is relatable. She jests about local issues,
with local references. She wisecracks about women’s issues.
As much as she still loves doing stand-up, there
remains a fear factor. Jennifer worries that she
might freeze with stage fright, inadvertently
offend someone, or the crowd won’t like her,
or worse, won’t get her humour.
“Doing stand-up comedy can be very
unnerving,” she said. “You are on your own up
there, either flourishing or dying. Sometimes
I’ve had to encourage quiet crowds to get a
little rowdy. ‘Don’t be afraid to laugh,’ I say. ‘I
need the feedback.’”
Not that she’s had to worry much – tough
audiences are few and far between. Usually
Jennifer has them rolling in the aisles. It also
helps that Dean is totally supportive... well,
maybe not completely.
“I often tell audiences that Dean isn’t much
of a romantic,” Jennifer quipped. “But he
did buy me a sliver bracelet. The sweetheart
even had it engraved. When I turned it over it
read, ‘Do Not Resuscitate.’”
8 • GREYBRUCEBOOMERS.COM

by Doug Archer
THE BUCKET LIST
Jennifer says she’ll never stop doing comedy, mainly
because it inspires people. “That is my real gift. I
always say, don’t follow your dreams, follow your
talent, and I like to think that my talent has been
the ability to inspire people – to have helped them
in some way through laughter. That’s what I want
engraved on my tombstone.
“After all, an important message I try to bring
through my comedy is that life is too serious to be
taken seriously. Like that counselor reminded me
many, many years ago, humour is the ability to find
joy in the face of adversity – and that is always a
positive thing.”
Doug Archer is a local writer who enjoys celebrating the multifaceted
lives of the 50+ generation. He is also the author
of three locally-set mystery-adventure novels. Learn more at
coldcasekids.com or email him at archer@bmts.com.
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HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Gut health
IMPROVING YOUR STOMACH HEALTH CAN LEAD TO A LONGER LIFE
BY AMANDA MODARAGAMAGE
10 • GREYBRUCEBOOMERS.COM

by Amanda Modaragamage
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Life expectancy has increased over the years,
and we are now living longer than our parents
and grandparents did. Although this is great news,
a longer life does mean higher rates of chronic
conditions like Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke,
or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
So how can we prevent these conditions while living
long and healthy lives?
Studies suggest that having a healthy gut may be
one of the keys to preventing chronic conditions and
helping us live longer without chronic conditions.
Although our gut makeup changes as we age,
improving longevity through healthy habits that
support our gut is possible.
“Your gut microbiome changes throughout your life,
and it’s common to see more bad bacteria within the
gut as you age,” said Leah Van Dolder, a health and
mindset coach and weight loss dietitian. “Sometimes
this can cause more stomach pain, gas and bloating,
and even some unexpected weight loss.”
Fortunately, there’s a silver lining. Van Dolder
reassures us that our gut is remarkably resilient,
and there are several strategies we can use to foster
a healthy gut and rejuvenate our gut microbiome.
Studies suggest that with minor changes in diet,
hydration, and exercise, positive changes in the gut
microbiome can start to happen almost immediately.
What is the gut microbiome?
Your gut microbiome is a world of microscopic
organisms like bacteria, viruses, and other microbes
within your digestive tract. The trillions of
microorganisms that live there affect each other, us,
and their environment. These microscopic organisms
help digest what you eat and influence how your
body responds to food. They are also instrumental
in keeping your immune system functioning and can
impact everything from your nervous system to your
mental health, enlightening us about its crucial role.
“People don’t necessarily connect the dots,” Van
Dolder said. “An unhealthy gut can impact people’s
mood, brain, mental health, and even their ability to
lose weight.”
One aspect that affects people as they age, she
continued, is their ability to fight off sicknesses, which
is also affected by a healthy gut.
“Our gut health plays such a big role in our immune
system. Having a healthy immune system helps us
prevent sicknesses but also our ability to help us get
better if we do get sick.”
Incorporate gut-friendly foods
Healthy microbes in the gut love fibre, but humans
generally don’t get enough, which can significantly
WINTER 2024/25 • 11

HEALTH AND WELLNESS
by Amanda Modaragamage
disrupt the gut microbiome.
“Most people should get between 20 and 30 grams of
fibre a day,” Van Dolder said. “Fruits and vegetables,
especially fruits with seeds, like raspberries,
blackberries, and blueberries, are great sources of
fibre and are easy to incorporate into your diet.”
Van Dolder also noted that all types of vegetables are
excellent sources of fibre. Dark leafy greens, such as
broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, are high
in fibre, and adding all types of vegetables can aid in
a healthy gut.
For optimal gut health, it’s also important to include
whole grains, such as whole wheat bread, brown
rice, quinoa, and ancient grains. Beans and lentils
are excellent sources of fibre and are easy to add to
everything from salads to wraps.
Van Dolder added that a great hack is to ‘cook once,
eat twice.’
“I like to tell people to cook in batches so they can
be in the kitchen less and have fewer dishes in the
long run. I suggest making larger meals and diving
them into portioned-controlled meals you can enjoy
throughout the week.”
In an aging population, Van Dolder noted that
people also aren’t drinking enough water, which can
significantly impact overall gut health.
“Hydration is key to good gut health,” she said.
“Getting enough water is one of the best ways to
support your gut microbiome. When you increase
fibre in your diet but do not get enough hydration,
the fibre will cause the opposite effect.”
Foods to avoid
Unfortunately, not everything in our diet supports
our gut. Some of the gut’s not-so-good bacteria and
microbes feed off unhealthy foods, such as processed
meats and foods with high sugar content. When
these foods are consistently introduced into the gut
microbiome, the “bad” bacteria that feed on them
can get stronger, disrupting the overall balance of a
healthy gut.
“It’s important to cut down on heavily processed
meats and foods and limit processed sugars like
12 • GREYBRUCEBOOMERS.COM

by Amanda Modaragamage
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
packaged candy and pop,” Van Dolder said. “Alcohol
is also something that most of us can also cut back on
to help our gut health.”
Alcohol can substantially change the balance of the
gut microbiome, causing it to go from a state of calm
to agitation. Over time, this can cause the bowels to
function ineffectively, disrupting the absorption of
nutrients from our food. One study examined the gut
of those who drink alcohol regularly and compared
them to healthy individuals who do not drink alcohol.
Disruption of the gut was present in 27 per cent of
the population who regularly consumed alcohol, but
it was not present in any of the individuals who did
not drink alcohol. Although red wine has been said
to be a healthy option, studies have now proven that
this is false, and there is no healthy amount or kind
of alcohol that is good for the gut.
Lifestyle affects gut health
Beyond diet and hydration, your gut health
is positively (or negatively) affected by several
environmental factors you may not have thought
about. For instance, chronic stress can negatively
affect gut health, and studies suggest it can increase
inflammation throughout the body. Stress can also
impact the balance of gut bacteria, leading to
digestive issues. To combat this, try practicing stressreducing
activities such as yoga, meditation, and
deep-breathing exercises, and consider mindfulness
techniques to manage stress.
Regular physical activity promotes a healthy gut by
enhancing gut motility and increasing the diversity
of gut bacteria.
“Incorporating light movement into your life can
help to support your gut health,” Van Dolder said.
“Walking and swimming are both amazing. Yoga,
Pilates, or even a stationary bike are great forms of
movement that you can incorporate to help promote
good gut health.”
Poor sleep negatively affects several aspects of our
lives, including gut health. Not getting enough sleep
can disrupt the gut-brain axis, leading to imbalances
in gut bacteria and leave you feeling sluggish and
irritable throughout the day. Try to maintain a
regular sleep schedule and create a restful sleep
environment. Studies suggest that most adults need
seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
Monitoring and adjusting your diet to suit you is vital
to optimal gut health. Once you start incorporating
healthy food options, cutting back on not-so-healthy
lifestyle habits, and adding healthy alternative
lifestyle habits, you may notice changes in your life;
listen to these cues to adjust how you feel to find the
perfect balance to support your gut microbiome.
This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult
a qualified health professional before making any lifestyle
changes.
Amanda Modaragamage is a Registered Practical Nurse and
wellness writer with over 15 years of experience in medicine.
She currently practices as a Fertility Nurse in Waterloo but
calls Stratford home. She is passionate about educating readers
on health and wellness trends using fact-based information.
Amanda’s wellness articles have been featured in Alive
Magazine, The Everygirl Media Group, and Healthnews.
com. Amanda has also published articles in the Waterloo
Record, Stratford Times, Hamilton Spectator, and more. You
can follow Amanda online at @amandajanewriter.
Leah Van Dolder is a weight loss dietitian and mindset coach
with over 10 years of experience. She is passionate about
helping driven women level up their health, nutrition, and
mindset so they can feel energized, strong, and confident in their
bodies. Leah is known for her no-BS and practical approach
to living a healthy, holistic, and balanced lifestyle. She’s highly
skilled at empowering women to prioritize nutrition, mindful
eating, and movement, even with a full calendar and social life.
You can find Leah online at @leahvandolder.
WINTER 2024/25 • 13

RECREATION
St
rgazing
A WINTER SOJOURN TO TORRANCE BARRENS
DARK SKY RESERVE BY GARY STORR
Observing Orion.
All photos by George Armstrong
14 • GREYBRUCEBOOMERS.COM

by Gary Storr
It had been a mild winter. Driving north in early
February 2024, I noted the patchwork of melting
snow on open fields and wondered if we would be
backpacking into our destination. If so, it would take
two trips, maybe more. Thankfully, we’d brought
firewood in anticipation of a scarcity on the over-
1,900 hectares of Canadian Shield, near Bala, in
Ontario’s beautiful Muskoka Region.
Pulling into the parking lot I breathed easy – there
was snow for the toboggans, calf-deep in places. A
sunny sky promised a crisp yet cozy afternoon. The
rest of the crew rolled into the parking lot one by
one and, after enthusiastic greetings, we set to work
loading the toboggans. Bruce Gunn, Doug Kelly,
George Armstrong, Ralph Orr and I had met 18
months earlier on a Nahanni River canoe trip in the
Northwest Territories; my nephew Drew Goodman
and Dan Bell were avid snow tramps with whom I’d
camped on countless occasions. In all, we numbered
six intrepid seniors and one token millennial. Dan’s
husky malamute, Nikita, was there too.
Towing our gear past Highland Pond to a point on
the eastern shore of Mossy Lake, we’d become damp
with exertion and were stripped to our underlayers.
We pitched our tents, scraped crusty snow from the
fire ring and hacked a hole in the ice to draw water
from the lake. The Torrance Barrens Conservation
Reserve, also known as the Torrance Barrens Dark
Sky Reserve, is located west of Gravenhurst and, on
RECREATION
a clear night, is a mecca for astronomers. We’d come
equipped with cameras and tripods to shoot stars,
planets, constellations and our own Milky Way.
To promote this activity, the Township of Muskoka
Lakes enacted a bylaw in 2014 regulating the use of
outdoor luminaries to reduce light pollution. The
Town of Gravenhurst followed suit and implemented
measures to ensure responsible use of outdoor
lighting.
Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and
Parks staff in Sudbury kindly provided us with the
location of six campsites with box latrines and where
campfires are permitted. As of spring 2024, Ontario
Parks requires permits and a camping fee, but we
squeaked in under the wire and stayed for free.
Early February brings early sunsets. After setting up
camp, we kindled a crackling blaze in the firepit and
stepped into warmer clothing. Then out came the
camp chairs and hip flasks while we waited for a pot
of chili to simmer on the coals. During supper we
fell into the easy camaraderie we’d established on the
Nahanni. Afterward, we toted our camera equipment
to the end of the point, the beams of our headlamps
dancing on the snow in front of us. Emerging from
the forest we gazed upward, awestruck, as the inky
sky yielded its sparkling diamonds.
The raw bite of a winter night seems to intensify the
WINTER 2024/25 • 15

RECREATION
by Gary Storr
brilliance of each tiny speck of light. We had
lucked into a quarter moon, not yet risen,
which further reduced the light reflected from
our own sun. I couldn’t recall a winter camp
that had commenced so beautifully.
The crew
prepares.
Doug and I had brought our aging SLR
cameras and, when mounted on tripods, they
ceased to function. We’d intended to use our
aperture timers so as not to jiggle the cameras
during long exposures, but the timers were
frozen – or broken. Fortunately, George had
invested in cutting edge cellphone technology
and, clipping it onto his tripod, produced
stunning photos of Orion, Ursa Major,
Polaris and Jupiter. The ethereal glow of our
galaxy washed across the heavens to the west.
An app on George’s phone identified myriad
celestial bodies for our band of unschooled
stargazers.
Back at the campfire, we marvelled at the
images on George’s phone until drowsiness
set in, always early at winter camp. In the
glimmer of a dying fire, we stumbled off to
our tents.
Our own Milky Way.
Crawling from our sleeping bags in the
morning, we faced a new challenge – how
to cook breakfast. Somehow, all four of the
white gas stoves refused to stay lit! The valves
had apparently leaked and were encrusted
with frozen fuel. Taking apart a stove and
reassembling it without replacement parts
is rarely a recipe for success but we tried
anyway. Again, fortuitously, there’d been a
hasty contingency plan – isobutane stoves.
As an afterthought, Bruce and I had both
tossed one of these single-burner gems into
our kit with enough fuel to get us through the
weekend. Isobutane doesn’t perform reliably
in winter because the canisters lose their
pressure in extreme sub-zero temperatures.

by Gary Storr
RECREATION
The stoves did, however, serve us well in the
comparative warmth of -10 C. Breakfast and the allimportant
morning coffee was served!
Next on the agenda was an exploratory trek on the
trails. Junipers and stunted white oaks are a common
sight on the shield as are a profusion of scattered
glacial erratics, which host many species of lichen.
Deciduous trees and shrubs thrive where they can,
sporadically emerging from the thin soil to form
small copses, or groups of trees. More often the
barrens resemble a moonscape littered with isolated
individuals – aspen, white birch, red maple and
white pine.
As the glacier retreated some 12,000 years ago,
it scraped long gouges in the granite which have
become shallow lakes and ponds – home to beavers,
shore birds, reptiles, amphibians and Ontario’s only
lizard, the five-lined skink. The barrens are also
home to 28 types of butterfly and 157 species of
birds have been observed and recorded on the eBird
website. Black bears, moose and red foxes also roam
the reserve. All that to say that, if you hope to add to
your wildlife list, do not visit in winter! We only saw
two black-capped chickadees, a common raven, and
the tracks of a beaver near its lodge.
Bearing in mind that even the simplest task requires
more time in winter, it was imperative not to bite
off more than we could chew. Our group of astute
trailblazers had cleverly stored the Ministry of
Environment, Conservation and Parks map in our
phones and were ready to go. The idea was to head
west on the map’s yellow trail and then north on the
brown trail to scope out campsites and experience
the lay of the land. Missing a fork in the path, we
found ourselves back at the parking lot. Scratching
WINTER 2024/25 • 17

RECREATION
our toques, we decided to follow the yellow trail until
it looped back to the brown trail. Victims of our own
ineptitude, we made another wrong turn and soon
recognized the problem – the physical trail markers
didn’t match the colour codes on the map!
Now on the Barrens Extension, we shrugged and broke
for lunch. We then plodded on – there was still plenty
of time to find our way back to camp. The extension
took us west along the south shore of an extensive frozen
wetland. Awkwardly traversing a beaver dam, we lopped
20 minutes from the duration of our excursion and began
to move in an eastward direction along the elevated and
sparsely treed north side of the swamp. The upper crust
of snow was wind-shaved and solid enough to support
our weight.
Occasionally, one of us, without warning, would posthole
and startled, plunge through the surface… once
into a shallow creek, but happily without consequence.
Passing through the parking lot yet again restored our
bearings and from there we trudged along the now
conspicuous final leg of our journey back to camp.
We passed the evening in much the same manner as the
night before, but spending less time studying the starstudded
sky and more time at the fire. Our stew was
frozen solid in two large blocks and had to be leaned
against logs by the fire to thaw. Dinner was late but well
worth the wait.
In the morning, we enjoyed our last meal together and
then broke camp and said our goodbyes – our departures
were staggered by our varying states of readiness with
myself, Dan and Nikita the last to leave. Reaching the
parking area with toboggans in tow, we were surprised to
see that none of the other lads had yet arrived. Eventually,
two approached from an unexpected direction, while
another returned by road – he’d left his toboggan on the
shoulder for retrieval on the way out.
I was pleased that, in spite of our bewilderment on the
Barrens, we unanimously agreed it had been a fun and
18 • GREYBRUCEBOOMERS.COM

by Gary Storr
stimulating reunion. There was even noise of a
repeat gathering next year! I’m all in, but perhaps
we should first sign up for a tutorial in orienteering.
Gary Storr sits when he’s tired of standing. He and his wife
Debby live in Owen Sound and enjoy playing outside in all
seasons.
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WINTER 2024/25 • 19

FEATURE COMMUNITY
A CULTURE OF
‘NO’
THE MINDSET THAT’S HURTING
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
BY DAN HERRICK
Many non-profit organizations that have been
part of the community for decades face a quiet
challenge – a culture of ‘no.’ It’s not always obvious
or spoken aloud, but it can be felt in the way new
ideas are received – often with hesitation, resistance
or complete disregard.
Long-standing members of an organization,
particularly those who have invested many years,
often find it difficult to embrace new approaches.
After all, if something has worked for decades, why
change it now?
However, in today’s fast-moving world, sticking
too rigidly to the old ways can become a barrier to
growth and progress. For non-profits or volunteer
organizations, this resistance to change can be
particularly damaging. These groups play crucial
roles in their communities providing social services,
supporting the arts, offering educational programs,
recreational opportunities, and so much more. The
world around them is constantly evolving, and
non-profits must keep pace to continue their work
effectively.
This culture of no may be especially common among
non-profits that rely on long-standing volunteers,
donors, and board members. While the experience
and dedication of these individuals is invaluable,
the deep-rooted traditions they cherish can also
contribute to an environment where new ideas are
met with reluctance.
Whether it’s a suggestion from a younger volunteer
on how to better engage with the community or a
new approach to fundraising, the instinctive response
is often to not fairly consider the idea.
Yet, as the needs of the community evolve, the
organizations that serve them must do the same. The
challenge, then, is not in saying no, but in finding
ways to preserve the non-profit’s mission, while
20 • GREYBRUCEBOOMERS.COM

by Dan Herrick
COMMUNITY
embracing fresh approaches that allow it to thrive in
the modern world.
The hidden costs
At first glance, saying no can seem like the safest
choice. Sticking to what’s familiar feels like a way to
protect the organization from risk. However, over
time, saying no too often can carry hidden costs that
hinder the organization’s ability to fulfill its mission.
Missed opportunities for growth – Non-profits
rely on funding, donations, and grants to sustain their
work. These funding sources are increasingly looking
for organizations that demonstrate innovation and
adaptability. By clinging too tightly to old methods, a
non-profit may miss out on opportunities that could
support new programs, technologies or partnerships.
Losing relevance – Communities are always
changing, and the people they serve have new needs,
interests and expectations. Non-profits that are
resistant to new ideas risk becoming out of touch
with the very people they aim to help. As a result,
they may experience declining membership, reduced
engagement or even a shrinking base of supporters.
Volunteer and donor fatigue – Volunteers and
donors often look for signs that their contributions
are making a real difference. If a non-profit seems
slow to adopt new ideas or stuck in its ways, it can
be discouraging. Volunteers may feel like their efforts
aren’t leading to meaningful change, and donors
may redirect their support to organizations that are
perceived as more dynamic and forward-thinking.
Inflexibility in crisis – The COVID-19 pandemic
demonstrated how crucial it is for non-profits to
adapt quickly. Organizations that were able to shift
their services online or reimagine how they delivered
their mission were the ones that weathered the storm.
Those that were trapped in a culture of no, however,
found themselves struggling to respond to a rapidly
changing world. Over time, the cumulative effect
of saying no too often can create an environment
where the organization is both unable to grow and
risks losing its place in the community.
WINTER 2024/25 • 21

COMMUNITY
by Dan Herrick
How it happens
Non-profits often fall into a culture of no for reasons
that may seem valid. Many operate on limited budgets
with a small staff and rely heavily on volunteers.
Saying yes to a new initiative can feel risky when
resources are already stretched thin. Maintaining the
status quo may seem like the more prudent choice.
Additionally, many non-profits are led by individuals
who have been deeply involved in the organization
for years, if not decades. These leaders have seen the
organization grow from its early days, and they have
an emotional investment in its success. To them, the
idea of changing the way things are done might feel
like a gamble with the organization’s future.
However, the reality is that what worked in the past
won’t necessarily work in the future. As the world
changes, the ways in which non-profits serve their
communities must also change. The challenge lies in
finding a way to honour the history and legacy of the
organization while remaining open to new ideas that
can help it continue to thrive.
Blueprint for non-profit innovation
One model that non-profits can look to for
inspiration is the ‘makerspace,’ which is a
collaborative environment where people of all ages
and backgrounds come together to create, build, and
experiment. The very foundation of a makerspace is
built on a culture of yes – the belief that anyone can
contribute, and that creativity and innovation thrive
when people are free to explore new ideas without
fear of failure.
In a makerspace, individuals are encouraged to take
risks, try new things, and learn from their mistakes.
Failure is seen not as a setback but as a necessary step
toward success. This mindset fosters an atmosphere
of openness and possibility, where collaboration and
innovation are celebrated.
Encourage creativity and hands-on problem
solving – Just as makerspaces invite individuals to
experiment with new ideas, non-profits can encourage
their staff, volunteers, and board members to
brainstorm and test new approaches to the challenges
they face. Whether it’s a new way to engage donors,
a fresh approach to service delivery or an innovative
community partnership, the key is to create an
environment where creativity is encouraged.
Promote a ‘fail fast, learn faster’ attitude – In
makerspaces, failure is viewed as part of the process.
Non-profits can adopt this mindset by allowing for
small, low-risk experiments. When a new idea is tested
and doesn’t work, the organization can learn from it
and move forward. This reduces the fear of trying
something new and helps the organization grow.
Leverage collaboration – Makerspaces bring
together people with diverse skills and backgrounds,
creating a melting pot of ideas. Non-profits can create
similar spaces for cross-functional collaboration,
where board members, staff, volunteers, and
even community members work together to solve
problems. This blending of perspectives often leads
to innovative solutions.
A culture of yes
Makerspaces thrive because they embrace a culture
of yes. In these spaces, there is a shared belief that
new ideas are worth exploring, and that even small
contributions can lead to big breakthroughs. This
openness to experimentation and collaboration
creates an environment where people feel empowered
to take risks and think creatively.
For non-profits, the word yes can be transformative. It
means being open to trying new things, even if they might
not work perfectly the first time. It means encouraging
staff, volunteers, and board members to share their
ideas and to experiment with new approaches. And it
means creating an environment where people feel safe
to innovate without fear of failure.
22 • GREYBRUCEBOOMERS.COM

by Dan Herrick
COMMUNITY
Creating a ‘yes’ culture
Shifting from a culture of no to yes doesn’t happen
overnight, but with intentional steps, it’s possible to
foster an environment where new ideas are embraced,
and the organization thrives.
Start small with safe experimentation –
Change can feel overwhelming, especially for nonprofits
with limited resources. Start by encouraging
small experiments. Instead of overhauling an entire
program, try a pilot version with a small group of
participants. If it works, expand it. If not, learn from
it and adjust.
Celebrate new ideas, even if they don’t work
– The first step in moving from a culture of no to
a culture of yes is to acknowledge and celebrate
creativity. Encourage your team to share their ideas
and applaud their efforts – even if the idea isn’t
perfect. Over time, people will feel more comfortable
offering fresh perspectives.
Encourage cross-generational collaboration
– Non-profits often have leaders and volunteers
from different generations. The experience of older
members and the fresh ideas of younger partnerships
can help bridge the gap between tradition and
innovation.
or funding structures, are driving the need to adapt.
When people understand the reason for change,
they’re more likely to support it.
A hopeful future for non-profits
As non-profits look toward the future, the key to
thriving lies in embracing a culture of yes. This doesn’t
mean saying yes to every idea, but rather creating
an environment where innovation, experimentation,
and creativity are valued. By moving away from
automatic resistance to new ideas, non-profits can
position themselves to grow, adapt, and continue
making a meaningful impact on their communities.
For those who have been dedicated to their nonprofit
for decades, this shift may seem challenging,
but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The legacy of a
non-profit isn’t just about the past – it’s about what’s
possible for the future. By fostering a culture of yes,
you are ensuring that the organization will not only
survive but thrive, continuing to serve its community
for generations.
Dan Herrick is a passionate advocate for hands-on learning
and the makerspace movement. As the Executive Director at
Grey Bruce Makers, they are dedicated to fostering creativity
and collaboration in the local community.
Create an environment where change feels
safe – People are often resistant to change because
it feels risky. Make it clear that the organization isn’t
abandoning its roots. Instead, you’re evolving to
stay relevant and continue serving the community.
By framing change as a way to strengthen the
organization’s mission, you’ll ease the fears of those
who worry about stability.
Communicate the why – Especially for older
board members or volunteers who have been
involved in the non-profit for years, change needs
to come with a clear rationale. Take the time to
explain how external factors, like shifts in technology
WINTER 2024/25 • 23

TRAVEL
Fun in
PHOENIX
YOU’LL BE AS REFRESHED
AS A NEWLY RISEN BIRD
STORY AND PHOTOS BY
JILL ELLIS-WORTHINGTON
With 300 days a year of sunshine, there’s
really never a bad time to explore Phoenix,
Arizona. But if you’re not a fan of temperatures
exceeding 40 C, you may want to wait until the
snowbird in you hears the call of the south.
There’s a lot to do in Arizona’s capital and largest
city – nearly five million live in the metropolitan
area – so if you’re flying or driving down to escape
Ontario’s winter weather, tack on a few days to
explore this city. If you decide to leave from Detroit
Metropolitan Airport, it could save you money on
tickets. Several airlines offer non-stop flights from
DTW to PHX at an economical rate if you book
ahead.
Your sightseeing adventure can start when you
land at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
There’s a wall commemorating John McCain –
American war hero, U.S. Senator and Arizona’s
favourite son – in the John S. McCain III Terminal
3, along with other notable Arizonians. One is a fun
display of famous people who got married at the
airport in the golden days of Hollywood.
24 • GREYBRUCEBOOMERS.COM

Dessert Botanical Garden is a
must-stop for plant people. It’s a
safe way to enjoy the flora of this
sometimes-hostile environment.
WINTER 2024/25 • 25

TRAVEL
by Jill Ellis-Worthington
When it comes to lodging, consider Airbnbs in this
city, as many have pools and mini-golf greens and
are generally less expensive than hotels. When ready
to hit the town, pick up an Uber or Lyft, as they are
often half the cost of a taxi.
That rideshare or a taxi will take you along some of
the city’s fast-moving highways, so take a moment to
enjoy the manicured landscaping along the shoulders
of the road. Natural plants and rocks, highlighted by
Indigenous artwork cleverly worked into the noisereduction
walls, bring colour to the barren terrain.
Sometime during your trip, take a drive along the
older two-lane highways outside of the city to take
in the wild landscape. Majestic in their starkness and
covered with saguaro cacti, colourfully blooming
bushes and dust devils (whirlwind that picks up
dust and debris from the desert floor), the Phoenix
Mountains provide a stunning backdrop wherever
you look.
One of the great things about Phoenix is that there
is a roster of things to do and see for people of all
interests. Like many large cities, it has a variety of
professional sports teams. For football fans, a tour of
the Cardinals’ stadium is a must, but it also will be
interesting for tech types. State Farm Stadium is one
of two – the original one, along with the recently built
Allegiant stadium in Las Vegas – that have natural turf
that rolls in and out of the building. There’s a crew
of 10 people specifically devoted to grass care and
Left: The sculptural fountain is one of the first
things to see at Frank Lloyd Wright’s southern
base. Centre: His office has several original
artifacts. Right: Front view showing how FLW
integrated natural features (mountains) into
his vision.
another crew of 15 oversees the 19-million-pound
tray of turf rolling into the stadium via a massive
track system 48 hours before game day. Another fun
fact, though the stadium has a retractable roof, it has
only been opened six times since the stadium’s debut
in 2006 because of Arizona’s harsh climate; the last
was for a game on Christmas Day 2022.
The 90-minute guided tour costs $20 and takes you
into the guest team locker room, along the corridor
where your favourite team trods when playing the
Cardinals, the media room, a luxury box and to the
door of the box where Taylor Swift stood watching
when the Chiefs and her boyfriend Travis Kelce
trounced the Cardinals.
The stadium is located in Glendale, a Phoenix suburb,
within a short walk of the Westgate Entertainment
District. With eight million square feet of retail
space, this area boasts dozens of restaurants, shops,
event and show space. To watch a sporting event on
its many big-screen TVs or do some people watching
from its wall of windows, visit Bar Louie. Spirits
enthusiasts will savour a Lemon Drop Martini and
26 • GREYBRUCEBOOMERS.COM

by Jill Ellis-Worthington
TRAVEL
gastrotourists will love the Parmesan-crusted chicken
(hint, it’s big enough to split). There are residential
and business components with lofts and offices for
rent. Water is a highlight with a splash pad, and the
fountains dance nightly in a Bellagio-like display.
A not-to-be-missed stop is Old Town Scottsdale,
dating from the 1880s. Parts are touristy, with little
boutiques selling all kinds of tchotchkes but there
are also museums and great restaurants. Be sure to
look for the free parking lots. To delight in Italian
fare, Olive and Ivy provides a casually elegant
ambiance to enjoy a cold Peroni and share a plate
of grilled artichokes – delicious! Some of the shops
offer vintage turquoise jewelry that is intriguing, and
nearby is Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream, offering creamy
sweet delights in some unusual flavours when it’s
time for a break.
Buzzing around this area and downtown, you’ll
see car-meets-spaceship-type vehicles. These are
driverless cabs from Waymo. Some might find the
concept disconcerting but trying something new and
a little daring can be intriguing and, well, downright
fun. Like most transportation options these days, just
download the app and you’re ready to roll.
To enjoy some of the dozens of different types of
flora of the Sonoran Desert take a walk through the
140 acres of the Desert Botanical Garden. So many
varieties of cacti artfully displayed along various
trails, some in bloom, along with other types of
desert vegetation. You could spend a long day there
but allow at least three or four hours to get a good
taste of it; the green thumbers among your group
won’t want to leave.
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www.greybrucemakers.ca
WINTER 2024/25 • 27

TRAVEL
by Jill Ellis-Worthington
Architectural buffs will rejoice at a chance to
visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesen West. Many
will appreciate him as one of the fathers of the
Craftsman style of design and a grandfather of
the Mid-Century Modern style, which has recently
enjoyed a resurgence in popularity. A world heritage
site, Taliesin West was Wright’s winter home, design
studio and learning academy for his apprentices,
set with the McDowell Mountains as the backdrop.
The one-hour, self-guided audio tour costs $44 but
is worth every minute and penny to learn about the
genius behind the man who influenced so many of
today’s design ideals.
For those who want to explore the wild splendour of
the desert and enjoy amazing vistas, there are several
options. One is Dobbins Lookout in South Mountain
Park, with views to downtown Phoenix, as well as the
rugged beauty beyond. It can be enjoyed by a fairly
easy hike or by car, except on Sunday when the park
is closed to motorized traffic.
The bronze horse fountain is
the hub of Old Town Scottsdale.
Westgate Entertainment District is a
place to enjoy active fun — sightseeing or
at the splash pad — or to enjoy some R&R
at one of the many restaurants.
Camelback Mountain is also very popular, named
thusly for the two rock formations at each end. It
can also be hiked, though the trails are steep and
challenging. Biking or driving are also ways to enjoy
the amazing views from this noteworthy landmark.
When you want to rise from the ashes of stress or
need to escape Ontario’s winter weather, Phoenix
awaits.
A writer, public relations professional, traveller and football
fan, Jill Ellis-Worthington celebrates life every day. You can
follow her blog at www.writeoncommunicationservices.com.

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WINTER 2024/25 • 29

FOOD & DRINK
Parsnip, apple
and brie soup
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 5
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp butter
1 onion, chopped
4 cups parsnips, peeled and chopped
2 apples, peeled and quartered
4 cups sodium-reduced chicken or vegetable broth
4 oz brie cheese, cubed
Salt and pepper
Red apple, diced (optional)
Instructions
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium-high heat. Stir in onion;
cook, stirring for two minutes or until starting to soften. Add parsnips,
apples and broth; bring to boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15
minutes or until tender.
In a blender or food processor, in batches, purée soup until smooth;
return to saucepan. Stir in cheese; heat over medium-low heat, stirring
occasionally, just until cheese melts. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve garnished with diced apple, if desired.
Cooking tip:
If soup thickens upon standing, add more broth and reheat gently.
Recipe courtesy of Foodland Ontario
30 • GREYBRUCEBOOMERS.COM

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WINTER 2024/25 • 31

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