Introducing Our april Member Spotlight: Meet OZ (AKA MARTIN)!

We asked Oz to share with our Members a brief overview of his background and some of the key moments that have shaped who he is. 

Oz grew up in Keswick on Lake Simcoe in a haunted house with a ghost named Gertrude, where he spent a lot of time swimming and playing hockey. His family moved to Toronto when he was 16 where he worked in construction. They had a cottage in Meaford so he eventually moved here, and worked as a bartender at Talisman Ski Hill. This is how he got to know a lot of people in the area. He recalls that sailors would come into the bar, which led him to learn how to sail and take part in the Georgian Bay Regatta. 

Over 10 years ago, he had a heart attack and was sent for a bypass surgery. Always looking on the bright side, Oz shares that had great roommates who would joke around and laugh all day. A couple of years later, he experienced multiple strokes, and praises his nephews for saving his life. He spent a couple of months in the Owen Sound hospital recovering, and is grateful that he lived to tell the tale. 

Returning home without a license, he began taking the Meaford accessible bus to get around. The bus driver suggested that Oz should learn how to drive a bus! Inspired, Oz worked hard to get his license back, and has been driving the bus ever since. Going above and beyond for anyone who rides his bus, he hands out flowers regularly.

A proud uncle, Oz lights up when he talks about his family. Watching his great nephew's hockey games, he remembers the days when he played and it fills him with joy. 

The next time you see OZ, share a friendly hello!

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Introducing Our MARCH Member Spotlight: Meet pattie!

Can you share a brief overview of your background and journey that has led you to where you are today?

I was a Realtor for 15 years and then an Office Manager at Century 21 in Barrie for 4 years. My husband was a Golf Professional for many of our 57 years of marriage. We retired and wintered at our condo in Titusville, Florida every 6 months for 11 years playing golf together 5 days a week. Once Covid hit, we sold. We now spend 6 months at our cottage in Port Severn and 6 months with our family here in Thornbury. Now I play pickleball every Saturday with my family here, and 5 days a week on our courts at Port Severn. I still golf but not as often. 

What drives and motivates you in your work or personal pursuits, and how do you stay inspired and focused?

I work out in the Lemonade Collective salt water pool most weekdays. The staff and facility is first class, the water is always warm and clean and I love the new sauna. I've met many new friends. We're always laughing and having fun during our workouts. Come and join us. This is truly my happy place! 

Could you highlight some of the projects or endeavors you're currently involved in that you're particularly excited about?

A project I am passionate about is painting, which I started at the Marsh Street Centre in Clarksburg. The Artists, who meet every Tuesday, generously donate paintings for the residents of Errinrung Long Term Care. Residents select and keep a painting for their room. We are doing this again in March. 

The next time you see Pattie, share a friendly hello!

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Introducing Our OCTOBER Member Spotlight: Meet ERNA!

Can you share a brief overview of your background and journey that has led you to where you are today?

I initially studied architecture but soon realized it wasn’t my true calling. Afterward, I owned a Bavarian specialty restaurant in Munich. After the birth of our son, we visited Canada and quickly realized it would be an ideal place to raise him. That’s when I began working with horses, training, competing in barrel racing, and teaching students for 42 years. Not a single day was boring—life with horses is always exciting and deeply personal, especially when it comes to matching students with the right horses. The work is intensive, but incredibly fulfilling.

Four years ago, we sold our farm and moved to Thornbury. Through the Lemonade Collective Pool, I met a member who introduced me to the Marsh Street Centre, and from there, I became a volunteer, then Secretary, Vice President, and now the newly appointed President. 

Two years ago, I discovered a new passion: painting. I started as a total beginner by attending a class at the Marsh Street Centre, and it felt like a new chapter in my life. I’ve become increasingly bold, experimenting with different tools and materials—not just painting on canvas, but also using wood. I’ve met so many wonderful people who supported me when I was new to the area. The community has given me a completely fresh perspective on life.

What are some of the key moments or experiences in your life or career that have shaped who you are and what you're passionate about?

I've been fortunate to experience many key moments throughout my life. Each one has added something new and exciting, shaping me into who I am today. I live with passion and make it a point to treat everyone as equals in both my personal and professional journeys.

Could you highlight some of the projects or endeavours you're currently involved in that you're particularly excited about?

Fundraising is an ongoing challenge, but it’s something I’m deeply passionate about. At the Marsh Street Centre, we’re raising funds for several meaningful initiatives: providing music lessons for children, supporting senior yoga programs, and improving the patio to enhance our pub nights.

What drives and motivates you in your work or personal pursuits, and how do you stay inspired and focused?

What keeps me inspired is knowing that I’m at a point in life where I can give back and help others. Throughout much of life, the focus is on how much money you can make, but now my priority is to give. I stay healthy by cooking fresh meals every day, and I invest my time in the Marsh Street Centre, my art, and swimming at the Lemonade Collective.

The next time you see Erna, share a friendly hello!

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Introducing Our December Member Spotlight: Meet Tetiana & Vlad!

Can you share a brief overview of your background and journey that has led you to where you are today?

We are both from Odessa, Ukraine. When the war in Ukraine started, Vlad was already in Poland.  In 2022 there was a special program for Ukrainians to get a visa to Canada, and we did it, not knowing whether we would use this visa or not. But then during discussions we decided to take a risk and try, and that's how we ended up in Canada.

What are some of the key moments or experiences in your life or career that have shaped who you are and what you're passionate about?

Tetiana:  I always wanted to dance!  I started dance classes since I was 4 years old and I havent stopped dancing since. I love to dance and to teach dance and movement. 

Vlad: I always loved to prepare food and it is my dream to be an amazing chef and create amazing food for people to enjoy. 

Could you highlight some of the projects or endeavours you're currently involved in that you're particularly excited about?

Vlad - I am inspired by the kitchen. I love cooking, being creative in my presentations. Now I work in the kitchen and am inspired by cooking. I love cooking for my loved ones and watching them enjoy my food.

Tetiana:  I had many projects in the Ukraine that I enjoyed related to dancing and as a Social Media specialist and related to my post secondary education in Maritime Logistics.  So now, in Canada, I am trying to get established in all or any of these activities/professions.

The next time you see Tetiana & Vlad, share a friendly hello!

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Introducing Our September Member Spotlight: Meet carl!

We are thrilled to introduce our Member of the Month, Carl! An exceptional squash player with a remarkable skill set, Carl continues to impress us all with his dedication and finesse on the court. What makes Carl truly special is his humble nature and the genuine kindness he brings to every interaction. Whether he's in the midst of a thrilling match or simply enjoying a friendly chat, Carl's warm smile and positive attitude light up the Lemonade Collective. His passion for the game and cheerful presence make him a true asset to our community.

Can you share a brief overview of your background and journey that has led you to where you are today?

I’ve often been drawn to other people’s stories. I think that’s probably how I ended up with a degree in English, and maybe what led in part to my becoming a paralegal. Over the years I’ve worked in a diversity of workplaces, doing jobs from computer repair and website design, to painting and landscaping. I’ve been lucky to work with a lot of knowledgeable, passionate, and effective people.

I recently started a business called “Collingwood Carl” (www.collingwoodcarl.ca), and I’ve been grateful to continue learning under the guidance of others, while effectively drawing on past experiences and putting them to use.

What are some of the key moments or experiences in your life or career that have shaped who you are and what you're passionate about?

When I was young and school was out for the summer, my parents, busy with work, enrolled me in tennis camp. I’m not sure exactly what inspired them to bring me there, but I stumbled into an obsession with the game for many years.

Fast forward to the end of university—I wasn’t as physically active, but fondly remembered my tennis days. I took a job at the Toronto Lawn Tennis Club, hoping to pick up the racket again. However, as a private club I wasn’t allowed to play. Fortunately, a colleague mentioned that the club would subsidize a gym membership, and he brought me out to play squash at a local gym. I’ve been playing ever since.

Could you highlight some of the projects or endeavours you're currently involved in that you're particularly excited about?

At work I’ve been fortunate to engage in a variety of projects. Some require careful research and planning, which I thoroughly enjoy. However, I also enjoy the unpredictability of days when I schedule work with others and don’t quite know where we’ll be going, or what tasks we’ll be tackling. This blend of structure and spontaneity keeps me energized and excited.

On the squash court I get a thrill out of playing in tournaments. There’s a unique excitement in playing at unfamiliar venues, sometimes with different court conditions. You never know how your competitor will perform or what it will take to excel in the moment.

The next time you see Carl, share a friendly hello!

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Introducing Our FEBRUARY Member Spotlight: Meet Maureen & Curtis!

Can you share a brief overview of your background and journey that has led you to where you are today?

We arrived, with a recommendation from a friend, at the Lemonade Collective in the winter of 2022, taking out our first fitness and swimming memberships ever. Having moved our home from Toronto to the Georgian Bay communities, we were anxious to improve our physical fitness. Our three daughters and their families no longer lived in Toronto and it was time to ‘right-size’ our home for the coming years. Little did we know that this wonderful centre would also introduce us to so many persons who we now count as close friends. 

What are some of the key moments or experiences in your life or career that have shaped who you are and what you're passionate about?

Given our lifelong concern with environmental impacts on our community in Toronto we immediately joined CANN-TBM; Climate Action Now Network- “Going Green for Blue.” We now are deeply involved in going to TBM Council Meetings to support and address important issues in our community, including care of the Georgian Trail, working with Tree Trust to plant and care for the majestic trees of the community and the planting and care for the Tiny Forest. Our new friendships with fellow climate advocates for our community are treasured by us.

What drives and motivates you in your work or personal pursuits, and how do you stay inspired and focused?

We now prioritize our wellness by starting our week at Lemonade Collective and feel very energized as we engage in our community activities.

Could you highlight some of the projects or endeavours you're currently involved in that you're particularly excited about?

In addition to Aquafit, we now take Pilates classes, Fascia/works with Ryan, and are learning about the care of our bodies in new ways. As we age there is much to consider in our balance, stretching, and endurance capabilities.

Maureen is a hospice community visiting volunteer with Hospice Georgian Triangle. Curtis continues being involved as a volunteer board member with a not-for-profit housing provider in Toronto and loves sharing a passion for learning about and enjoying wines from around the world. We love to visit wine regions around the world.

Looking Ahead

We want to first express our gratitude for the continuing service to the wellness of our community by Melissa, G, Michelle, and all the staff of Lemonade Collective. We are indebted to you for your care of us as we continue to grow roots in Thornbury and The Blue Mountains. We hope to continue our deepening relationships with the friends we have met through Lemonade Collective.

The next time you see Maureen & Curtis, share a friendly hello!

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Introducing Our November Member Spotlight: Meet marius!

Can you share a brief overview of your background and journey that has led you to where you are today?

Growing up in a charming little seaside village near Cape Town, South Africa, I was molded by the ocean, conservative values, and a tight-knit community. Life was straightforward and packed with the joys of surfing, spear fishing, rugby, and squash, each activity fostering friendships deeper than my understanding of astrophysics. With a handful of buddies, we spent countless hours soaking up nature's beauty, riding waves and competing fiercely, often with no idea what the scoreboard even meant. My upbringing gave me a profound appreciation for the ocean’s spoils and the relationships that keep us mildly sane.

Beyond sports, I took a shine to woodworking at a young age. Crafting my own surfboards became my version of artistic expression, even if my "art" (read: hours spent sanding while pretending to be an artist) often looked like a rogue piece of driftwood. Each board was a labor of love—or at least a labor of “let's hope this floats.” Beneath these hobbies lay a noble aspiration: the dream of becoming a doctor. My Christian upbringing, which emphasized compassion and service, nudged me toward this path. After all, who wouldn’t want to swap surfboards for stethoscopes?

Early in my career, I was lucky enough to patent several medical instruments—because if you can’t surf, you might as well invent things that make you look smart. This led me to travel the world, shaking hands with the various dignitaries and actual businessmen ; experiences that felt like a bizarre episode of a game show. But wait, there’s more! My journey wasn't all smooth sailing. A decade in South Africa exposed me to the gritty realities of a gun-violent rural practice, where I had a few too many close calls, including one memorable experience of being held at gunpoint. These delightful encounters tested my resolve and somehow reinforced my commitment to compassion and empathy—who knew danger could be so enlightening?

In 2008, I made the dramatic leap to Canada with my wife and two daughters, where I spent my first four years as a family doctor and emergency room "hero" in Saskatchewan—think of it as the snowy sequel to my South African saga, complete with frostbite and questionable fashion choices.

In 2012, I settled in Collingwood, eager to plant roots in a community that embraced us and rediscovered my love for squash at the local club. It was here that I met the illustrious Simon Pickess and Scott Carter. Together, we became known as the “Gunslingers”—clearly, we were destined for greatness. We celebrate rallies consisting mainly of powerful low shots aimed millimeters above the tin (- or that's the theory). Hollywood inspired drop shots are frowned upon, as it should be.  This camaraderie added a “joyful dimension” to my life in Collingwood, reminding me of the importance of community, or at least the importance of having someone to share a laugh with/ being laughed at. 

What drives and motivates you in your work or personal pursuits, and how do you stay inspired and focused?

What drives me (aside from copious amounts of caffeine and the odd glass of red wine ) is an unwavering desire to make a positive impact. Whether I’m treating patients or competing on the squash court, my motivation stems from the connections I forge with others.  My patients inspire me with their resilience, reminding me that I’m lucky to play a role in their healthcare journeys, however chaotic they may be. My faith continues to guide me, reinforcing the importance of compassion, humility, and service.  

Could you highlight some of the projects or endeavours you're currently involved in that you're particularly excited about?

Currently, I’m especially "thrilled" about my new role as the Chief of the Emergency Department in Meaford. This position lets me blend my love for medicine with my commitment to community service.  I believe in the power of education and giving back, which I get to do as an offsite adjunct professor for McMaster University, training the next generation of medical students and resident doctors - someone must teach them that not every emergency involves being sliced open by Simon's racket or being body checked by Scott's chiseled deltoids. 

My journey from a seaside village to a fulfilling career in medicine has been shaped by faith, friendships, and a commitment to serving others. Each experience has contributed to my identity, and I remain focused on making a positive impact in my community, all while keeping my sense of humor intact—because let’s face it, laughter is the best medicine, right after actual medicine.

The next time you see Marius, share a friendly hello!

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Introducing Our June Member Spotlight: Meet Mary!

I visited Canada again, with my mother, in my teens, and then at the age of 20, after my second year at the University of Bath, I came on my own for 6 weeks.  I got on a train at Union Station and travelled across the country, stopping to visit cousins in Thunder Bay, Winnipeg, Calgary and Vancouver. It didn’t take long… looking out of the train window at vast forests, lakes, prairies and mountains… I was IN LOVE with the expansive beauty and awesome landscape…and the possibilities….

6 weeks after returning from Canada, and back in Bath for my final year to become a Home Economist, I met a chap at the Rag Ball at the University and eagerly told him about my summer adventures in Canada. His reply..”I like the sound of Canada…LOTS OF SKY!”  David was a pilot and Aeronautical Engineer, and an alumnus of Bath University.  3 years later we were married by both our brother-in-laws who were vicars, in my village church in Countess Wear, Exeter, Devon and in September 1981 we packed up and left for our new life in Canada. David had got a job with de Havilland Canada at Downsview, and I was going to wing it!  

I quickly got a job with IGA Canada in Consumer Services, and from there went to Robin Hood Multifoods. 5 years later, in 1987, I became a full time mother to our daughter, Harriet Alida Lye.  

One of the highlights of her early years was travelling with David to California for a 3 month assignment at NASA Ames in Mountainview, California. Harriet (aged 17 months) and I explored our new community and joined local mums and tots programmes. It was wonderful! I loved being a mummy! And I had no plans on returning to the corporate world…

When Harriet was 2, I got a call from Robin Hood to ask if I could help them on a project to promote the GIngerbread House Kit that I helped to develop. They did not have a big advertising budget, but felt that I could do “something” to bring it to the attention of consumers. So, I winged it! I called TV stations with daytime shows throughout Ontario and chatted my way into a slot to show how to make a gingerbread house. One thing led to another, and I kept getting calls from other divisions of Robin Hood Multifoods to help them with their marketing in my creative way.  I never said no to a request,  And I had fun!  

A few years later I saw an ad in the Globe and Mail for a National role with the Canadian Honey Council to help the 10,000 beekeepers of Canada in the marketing of their wonderful honey and hive products.  At the end of an interview by phone with a French speaking Beekeeper in rural Quebec, I managed to conclude the interview by telling him that I wanted to be “La Reine des Abeilles” - the Queen Bee!  Apparently my sustained enthusiasm after 6 months of waiting and wondering about the job, got me the job!  A 2 year contract turned into 6 years of travelling all across Canada and to the US to speak at beekeeping conferences and set up media interviews everywhere I went. 

Twenty years later, in 2015, we were visiting Thornbury from our home in Toronto, and our daughter, Harriet was writing her first novel, The Honey Farm, inspired by my role as the Queen Bee!  She needed some help from a beekeeper with some of the details, and we found the Honey House in Clarksburg. Harriet was chatting to the owner while I was browsing the store.  The owner asked Harriet why she was writing a book about bees, and Harriet explained that her mother had worked for the Canadian Honey Council. “Who is your mother?” And Harriet told her my name. I heard a voice exclaim “MARY LYE”!  And I said “Yes?” and there was Keri Lockhart back in my life!

We moved to our new home on the Millpond in 2016.

Harriet continues to write and is a full-time award-winning author and, with Cal, are wonderful parents of 2 gorgeous children, Arlo (6) and Lucy (3). The family loves coming to visit us in Thornbury, and we often enjoy a Family Swim at the Lemonade Collective.

Harriet’s journey with a rare form of leukemia at the age of 15 changed us all. We lived at Sick Kids Hospital for most of 2002. With the support of researchers around the world, her doctors, nurses, family and friends, and her determination and fight, Harriet survived great challenges. She has written very honestly about these 9 months of her life, along with the 9 months, 15 years later, that she carried Arlo, her first child, in her moving memoir, Natural Killer. 

Soon after Harriet went back to full-time high school in 2003, I joined the very small staff at The Childhood Cancer Foundation of Canada. I told her story to encourage other families, and to encourage donors who could help make a difference in the fight against childhood cancer.  After 7 rewarding and exhausting years of that role, we found Thornbury. A week of rest at the Royal Harbour Resort resulted in a love-affair with this community that continues to this day. We LOVE living here and being involved community members.

David continues to work (now part-time) for de Havilland from home, (yes, 44 years and counting!!) and is on staff at Owen Sound Flight Services as a flying instructor and scenic tour pilot.  I found my place in the community when I read about the Thornbury-Clarksburg Rotary Club and their Kindness Campaign during Covid. This was MY KIND OF COMMUNITY!!  I joined the Club and am proud of the work we do in our community and internationally to bring funds and kindness to those in need.  

We are looking forward to raising funds this year through Trivia Night in September, our annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Saturday, and a Casino Night in November.  Volunteers, sponsors and new members are needed and welcomed to help bring more kindness to our world. 

Being a member of the Lemonade Collective is such a joy on many levels.  From the warm welcome from the front desk, the pals I meet in the pool while exercising.  It is an oasis of peace and retreat from the complicated world. 

I look forward to meeting more of you in the deep end!

The next time you see MARY, share a friendly hello!

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Introducing Our May Member Spotlight: Meet ed!

Can you share with our Members a brief overview of your background and journey that has led you to where you are today?

Ed grew up in Northern Ontario, spending his early years in Timmins and Sudbury before heading "down south" to study Engineering at Queen’s University, where he graduated. Early in his career, he joined The Campbell Soup Company in Toronto, and alongside his wife, embarked on a corporate journey that took them across North America. At just 33 years old, Ed became a plant manager in Manitoba, and later held key roles in both New Jersey and South Carolina. Eventually, Ed returned to Toronto to manage The Campbell’s Canada operations.

After several successful years, he moved into senior leadership roles with Nabisco Brands — where, humorously, he notes he went from “soup to nuts” overseeing Planters products — and later Maple Leaf Mills. While building his career, Ed and his wife Gail raised their son and daughter and pursued an active lifestyle, with Ed being an avid jogger, golfer, and skier.

It was skiing at Craigleith that first introduced the family to South Georgian Bay and Thornbury, a place they quickly grew to love. Ed and Gail became members at Craigleith Ski Club, where they built friendships over 25 years. After Gail’s passing 12 years ago, Ed continued to visit Thornbury on weekends before deciding to move up full-time — around the same time that Lemonade Collective opened. He joined just a month after its opening, calling it "one of the best moves I ever made," appreciating the welcoming community, the pool for workouts, the camaraderie of fellow members, and the sauna — especially meaningful to him given his Finnish heritage.

What are some of the key moments or experiences in your life or career that have shaped who you are and what you're passionate about?

Several early experiences had a profound impact on Ed.

Working in an underground mine during his high school and university years taught him the value of hard work, resilience, and the importance of building strong relationships with the people around him. It also reinforced his motivation to pursue higher education — something his parents strongly encouraged, shaped in part by his father’s experience working in the mines.

Throughout his corporate career, frequent relocations and transitions demanded adaptability and openness to meeting new people and working in new environments. These experiences shaped Ed's flexible, community-focused approach to life and work.

What drives and motivates you in your work or personal pursuits, and how do you stay inspired and focused?

Ed lives by a simple but powerful principle: If you’re going to do something, do it well.
Commitment and a strong work ethic have always been at the heart of everything he takes on. Once he decides to pursue something, he follows through with full effort, staying motivated by pride in doing things to the best of his ability.

Could you highlight some of the projects or endeavors you're currently involved in that you're particularly excited about?

Today, Ed is especially passionate about choral singing. Although he had never sung formally before, he took a leap and joined the Shoreline Chorus in Owen Sound, singing bass. The chorus performs 18–20 songs per concert series each season across Grey and Bruce counties, including Thornbury. In addition to music, Ed cherishes regular gatherings with friends and neighbours — another way he stays connected and engaged with the community he loves.

The next time you see Ed, share a friendly hello!

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Introducing Our August Member Spotlight: Meet MaryJane!

My introduction to life in the Blue Mountains was when I was 17 and was heading off to University in September but took a summer job FAR away from my hometown of Sarnia.  I was a dishwasher at Blue Mountain Easter Seal Camp in Craigleith.  I’m still washing dishes but we made Thornbury our home in 2008 after raising two sons in Oakville and retiring from a wonderful career of teaching high school with the Halton Board  – mainly French as a 2nd Language.  

The next time you see MARYJANE, share a friendly hello!

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