The answer to the first question is simple: I pay attention. I listen to what people are talking about in our communities. I scour Facebook to see what is being posted, commented on, shared and discussed. I read local newspapers to find out what is going on. Then I figure out whether a topic or issue can be “On The Bay-ized.” By that I mean, does it have a broad scope across our region? Is it of interest to our audience? Does it directly impact our readers? Is there a “big picture” we can explore and examine, rather than just reporting on a single event? My stock in trade, in a single word: curiosity. It may have killed the cat, but it is an editor’s lifeblood.
The answer to the second question – am I worried I’ll run out of ideas – is an emphatic NO! Our region offers rich fodder for all kinds of stories, from interesting people, beautiful homes and unique local businesses to four-season outdoor activities, amazing food and restaurants, incredible local artists, and an arts and culture scene that puts the heart and soul into our communities.
And then there are the issues. Like any area, we grapple with political, social and environmental challenges to our way of life and our enjoyment of this little corner of paradise. Whether it’s giant wind turbines, gravel pits, water levels or sharing our roads with cyclists, it’s important to understand the issues that affect us all. I’m a big believer that information is power – just ask my friends, who lovingly (I hope) call me the Queen of Research. Whether or not you agree with something, and whether or not you choose to do something about it, your basic responsibility as a citizen on this planet, I firmly believe, is to be informed. And that’s my mission as editor of On The Bay: to inform our readers and maybe, just maybe, spark a change for the better.
In this issue, writer Marc Huminilowycz informs us about a giant alien plant, invasive phragmites, which is taking over our shorelines and wetlands at the expense of other forms of plant and animal life. It’s a highly informative story and a great read, with a clear “call to action” about how you can help. Marc also contributed a second piece about agri-food innovation – local food entrepreneurs who are making the most of our agricultural riches.
The other stories on the following pages are equally informative and enjoyable. Writer Laurie Stephens takes us on some exciting summer adventures on land, sea and air. Judy Ross explores the lively local theatre scene in one story and spotlights some pretty spectacular outdoor kitchens in another. Emily Worts writes about using local ingredients in summer cocktails – from her unique vantage point as both a caterer and a descendent of one of Canada’s original distillers.
Other stories in this issue include my real estate column (a new regular feature) about the hot Thornbury market, our Openings section highlighting new local businesses, our Artist Spotlight profiling a fabulous local artist, and the ever-popular Dan Needles giving his wry recollections of an ill-fated fishing trip.
Variety is the spice of life, and our tagline at On The Bay is “Celebrating Life in Southern Georgian Bay,” so by extension we’re celebrating the variety that makes life here so very spicy. And don’t worry – I haven’t used up all the good story ideas yet. In fact, I’m already getting excited about some new ones. ❧
