Brent Jones, Real Estate Sales Representative – RE/MAX Niagara Realty Ltd., Brokerage – Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada
Who doesn’t love milkshakes, hot dogs, and gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches? In this episode, I speak with Shane Therrien, better known as Big Pappi, about the success he’s found serving up delicious comfort food on Derby Road in Crystal Beach.
* * *
In this season four premiere episode, Shawn Murphy, owner of Your Farm Gate in Ridgeway, joins me to discuss his take on ethically and sustainably farmed food. Also, I announce two giveaways: First, tune in to The Fort Erie Podcast every week this fall for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to Lucky Stryx in Fort Erie. There is a total of $500 of gift certificates to be won. Then second, I am running a contest to win a $3,000 vacation package. The draw will be held in January. To enter, buy or sell residential real estate in Niagara with me before the end of the year.
* * *
Yes, there will be a fourth season of The Fort Erie Podcast…I promise. I just don’t know when exactly it will happen. In this short episode, I offer listeners an explanation as to why I am delaying the production and release of season four. Simply put, the provincial stay-at-home order (not to mention the pandemic at large) has made it virtually impossible to cover local news and events.
Same goes for small business owners in our town. It’s tough for them to talk with me about what makes their businesses great when they’re being forced to keep their doors shut for an indefinite period of time. But this won’t last forever. Sooner or later, things will begin to return to normal and, when that day comes, I’ll be ready and waiting to get the ball rolling on season four.
* * *
Be honest…does the thought of doing improv in front of a group of strangers terrify you? What if there was beer involved? In this season three finale episode of The Fort Erie Podcast, Anastasia Boake, co-owner of Down the Rabbit Hole Theatre Company in Ridgeway, discusses with me by phone the drama programs (for various age groups) that she and her business partner, Ashley Krawczyk, offer the community.
* * *
Due to COVID-19, there was no Bridgeburg Street Dance this fall, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t good things happening in the north end. Joining me this week is Julie Brady to talk about Regional Limousine, her established business at the former Jarvis Street fire hall, as well as her involvement with the economic development of downtown. Then, returning to the show this season is James Culic (best known for his opinion pieces in Niagara this Week) to share his thoughts on the damaged waterfront bike path.
* * *
What do paint nights, jam nights, and a beloved fishing boat have in common? All three can be found at the BoHo Studio in downtown Ridgeway. Since the tragic passing of his partner, Debra Mallen, Rob Faragalli has been steadfast about continuing her legacy — uniting Ridgeway through art, laughter, and an uncompromising sense of community.
* * *
Who cuts my hair, you ask? Turns out, it isn’t my mom. My barber, Mike Daigle — better known as “Mike the Barber” — joins me by phone to talk about his brand new Fort Erie barbering studio (it opened just this year), as well as the large selection of high-end men’s grooming products he carries at the Bridgeburg Gentleman’s Shoppe.
* * *
Keith McTague and his wife, Ashlynn Ross, are partners not only in life, but business, as the co-founders of Planks Canada on Derby Road. The brand found immediate success in Crystal Beach with both tourists and local residents alike. Keith shares the value of shopping local (especially during a pandemic) as well as his love for the area and community. Also, joining me by phone is Jake Allemang, owner of MSNR Plumbing, with some tips on preparing your home for winter.
* * *
As a border town, Fort Erie is home to a lot of firsts. Perhaps no one knows this better than Martha Mason, executive director of the Fort Erie Multicultural Centre as well as the Peace Bridge Newcomer Centre. Martha sheds some light on the work she does with those new to Canada, as well as what’s hiding in her trunk (and the answer just might surprise you). Also, fun fact: Martha was chosen last season by you, the listeners, to be on the show this fall.
* * *
So, is it supposed to be said as three-thirty-five or three-three-five? Find out on this episode with Jenn Wilkinson, owner of 335 on the Ridge and The Kitchen at 335, as she reflects both on growing up in Crystal Beach and the origins of her popular Ridgeway restaurant brands. Also, find out which famous celebrity she is most often mistaken for.
* * *
