My top 3 of 2019

This year, I’ve found it difficult to pick my favourite projects. But since this has become an annual tradition, here - in no particular order - are my top three of 2019.

If you’re Canadian, chances are good that Chapman’s Ice Cream is part of some of your happiest memories. So, it was an honour to help this iconic Canadian company create their new website.  

I worked closely with the PR and communications team to tell their brand story in a voice that is both friendly and informative. 

But let’s be honest - the only thing more fun than writing about Chapman’s was sampling their products - all in the name of research, of course!

Check out the site, and think of me the next time you enjoy a scoop!

Last year I began writing for Broadview – formerly the United Church Observer Magazine. As the longest continuously-published magazine in Canada, they cover a wide variety of topics that go well beyond the Church. 

This summer, Broadview asked me to report on a historic land transfer between the United Church and the Eelūnaapèewii Lahkèewiit, more commonly known as the Lenape people of the Delaware Nation at Moraviantown.

Moraviantown is located less than 45 minutes from my front door, and yet I knew next to nothing about the history of this First Nation. It’s fascinating, and you can read more about it here. 

Chief Denise Stonefish was kind enough to spend a morning with me at Moraviantown and the Fairfield historic site. In addition to being the leader of her Nation, she’s also a hockey goalie – just like my son – so we had plenty to chat about. 

You can check out my story here, and if you are ever driving to Chatham I encourage you to take a few minutes to stop at the historic sites that commemorate the Fairfield community and the death of Chief Tecumseh at the Battle of the Thames.

 

It’s not often that you get to interview someone you’ve know since you were 14 years old. But that’s exactly what happened a few months ago when I was assigned a story about the 35th anniversary of Michael Gibson Gallery. 

As the daughter of a professional print maker, I’ve known Michael Gibson since he purchased Roth Art on Talbot Street in the mid-80s. As a teenager, it just happened to be on one of my favourite blocks in downtown London.  

I know first-hand how tough the art business can be, and it was inspiring to learn more about how Gibson has managed to survive, thrive and become one of the top commercial galleries in Canada – all without a formal background in art. 

It just shows what you can accomplish with passion, hard work, community support, and some lucky breaks. 

You can check out the story here. And if you’re in London, drop in to see his hockey-themed December exhibition. 

As I look ahead to 2020, I’d like to acknowledge three of my biggest blessings: my strong, sassy and resilient son, my friends and family who have kept me smiling through thick and thin, and my many clients who allow me to continue earning a living doing something I love. 

I wish you all a peaceful, joyful, and prosperous New Year.