Made in SDG Counties Stories

Stories of success - from across SDG Counties

• Countryside Adventures

    

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  Six years ago, Nicolas Seguin of Moose Creek, Ontario was running a successful forestry and excavation business when he began toying with the idea of what to do with his large, forested property, located about 40 minutes east of Ottawa. Countryside Adventures was born from Seguin’s skill at land clearing and his understanding of the beauty of his property, which features meandering creeks and ponds.

  With the support of a cost-sharing grant from the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry’s Regional Incentives Program, Seguin began the process of carving out trails in the forest and clearing an area for parking lots and accessory buildings. On his first winter, he flooded the initial trail and opened up his property to skaters.

  Since his grand opening, the site has matured and the offerings grown. Countryside Adventures now offers a 3-kilometre trail circuit through the woods that winds up and down marsh areas, ending at a scenic pond frozen into winter perfection. The trail is lit by what seems like an endless stream of Edison bulbs that glow with an almost magical golden sheen at night, creating an evocative setting for date nights and family fun.

  A new equipment rental location and permanent washrooms have replaced the trailers that were used initially and the skating trails have expanded to include snowshoeing trails.

  A tubing mountain will leave you breathless and screaming in delight as you glide down a family-friendly mountain that was purpose built for sledding. There are multiple tubing lanes, so prepare yourself to race to the bottom with your friends and family!

  If you need a break from the thrills, there are plenty of friendly animals in the petting zoo to enjoy some quiet time with, and there are spacious outdoor fire pits for relaxing while sipping a hot chocolate.

  The s’mores kits are as legendary as the poutines from the food truck, making this a one-stop shop. New this year, families can even rent ice-side party buildings that are intended for groups and events. The buildings are lit and heated and offer shelter from the elements and a fun place for groups to celebrate.

  During the summer months, Countryside Adventures offers axe throwing and archery.

  They also rent out seasonal cabins that offer a great place to unwind and escape from the pressures of a busy lifestyle. The cabins are simple and rustic. They are outfitted with a bunk bed with a double mattress and space on the floor for additional sleeping bags. Each cabin has its own fire pit, picnic table and a charcoal barbeque with everything needed to light it. Solar lights and a solar USB charger will keep you connected to the world – if you so desire. There are Adirondack chairs on the decks for star gazing and ponds for fishing and splashing. Kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and pedal boats are also readily available. The accommodations are designed to make you feel the grandeur of the forest, more a piece of it, than a visitor to its warmth.

  To learn more about Countryside Adventures, visit www.countrysideadventures.ca

• Turquoise Compass Wellness

   

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  Turquoise Compass Wellness, a new wellness sanctuary where people gather, connect, nourish, and embrace nature on their journey to wellness. Founded by Jessica Palmquist, whose journey across 33 countries deeply influenced her approach to wellness, the studio is inspired by the transformative experiences found in the great outdoors. At Turquoise Compass Wellness, Jessica says “clients are encouraged to listen to their internal compass, approach life's challenges one step at a time, and be brave enough to take risks to go after what you want in life.”

  The vision for Turquoise Compass Wellness was born from Jessica’s hiking adventures in Nova Scotia, where meaningful conversations about life and dreams unfolded in natural surroundings. These moments sparked her passion for creating a wellness space that would foster connection to nature. After her family moved to St. Andrews West, the opportunity to turn this vision into a reality presented itself.

  Upon discovering a peaceful, nature-filled property, Jessica envisioned a sanctuary where people could gather year-round to experience the calming influence of the natural world. “We defy societal norms of hibernating October through March and gather in every season amidst the elements to participate in curated workshops designed for personal, mental, and physical wellness", Jessica said. As the space continues to evolve, future expansions will offer even more opportunities for mind, body, and spirit enrichment, all set within the heart of nature.

  Jessica’s holistic approach to wellness includes a blend of yoga, retreats, and doula services designed to foster personal growth and meaningful connections. She offers small group and one-on-one yoga sessions for all levels, focusing on mindfulness, breathwork, and movement. Beyond yoga, Jessica organizes outdoor retreats and pop-up events that create opportunities for connection and self-discovery. Additionally, she provides Fertility and Prenatal Doula services, offering guidance and support throughout fertility journeys and birth preparation. From cycle charting to personalized birth plans, Jessica ensures her clients feel informed and empowered.

  In 2023, Turquoise Compass Wellness was a recipient of the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry’s Regional Incentive Grant. This support facilitated the creation of a woodland path, the addition of a stone patio, and the construction of two 12x14 pavilions, enhancing the property for community gatherings. Since opening in October 2024, the space has become a welcoming retreat where members of the community can engage in wellness activities, share experiences, and immerse themselves in the peaceful, natural environment.

  To learn more about Turquoise Compass Wellness and upcoming events, visit their website or follow them on social media. You can book an appointment by contacting turquoisecompass@gmail.com or online at:

  Website: https://www.turquoisecompass.com/

  Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/TurquoiseCompassWellness/

   

• The Bishop's House of Glengarry

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  A New Era for the Bishop’s House of Glengarry
  The Bishop’s House of Glengarry, once threatened with demolition, is now poised for a new era. With the support of passionate advocates and funding partners, this historical gem is being restored to its former glory—and beyond—becoming a vibrant cultural center for the community.

  A Historic Landmark Reclaimed
  Nestled in the heart of St. Raphael’s, Ontario, the Bishop’s House of Glengarry is a remarkable link to the province’s past. Built in 1808 as the home of Rev. Alexander Macdonell, Ontario’s first bishop, it later became a center for education, hosting the province’s first college and, later, the esteemed Iona Academy. For generations, it stood as a pillar of learning and community life.

  By 2015, however, the future of this historic landmark was uncertain. Years of neglect had left the building in critical condition, and the specter of demolition loomed. Yet, a dedicated group of individuals had spent over a decade fighting to save the Bishop’s House. Since 2004, the Glengarry Fencibles Trust worked tirelessly to preserve and revitalize the building. Through persistent fundraising, advocacy, and public outreach, they garnered the support needed to secure its future.

  Their efforts came to fruition in 2015 when the Trust successfully acquired the building. In 2016, they officially took possession, embarking on a journey of restoration and renewal. Thanks to the vital support of partners like the SDG Regional Incentive Grant, the Bishop’s House is being transformed, ensuring this historic treasure remains a vibrant part of the community for generations to come.

  The Bishop’s House of Glengarry offers a unique venue for events such as wedding receptions, book launches, picnics, and Summer Sunday concerts. Since opening to the public in 2023, it has welcomed visitors to explore the history of Rev. Alexander Macdonell and the early days of Ontario, while hosting a variety of community-driven events.

  Since taking possession in 2016, the Glengarry Fencibles Trust has been dedicated to restoring and enhancing the property. The yard has been cleared of overgrown trees and shrubs, improving both its aesthetic appeal and accessibility. With support from partners such as the SDG Regional Incentives Grant, significant upgrades to the building have been completed, including a new roof, a mansard roof replacement, new doors, and the addition of a new veranda. Accessibility improvements, such as updated parking spaces and the extension of the existing sidewalk, have further enhanced the site's inclusivity. These upgrades have all contributed to making the property more welcoming for all visitors.

  Currently, only 1,000 square feet of the 10,000-square-foot building is accessible to the public. However, the Trust plans to continue its restoration efforts, gradually expanding access to more areas of the building. With ongoing support, the Bishop’s House will continue to grow as a key historical and cultural site, offering a space for future generations to connect with Ontario’s past.

  If you’re interested in visiting the Bishop’s House or attending one of their upcoming events, you can contact the Glengarry Fencibles Trust at info@bishopshouse.ca

  For more information, visit their website at https://bishopshouse.ca/