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Photographed by Ian McCausland Travel may be limited this summer, but discovering incredible experiences right here in our home province doesn’t have to be. Make no mistake these last few months have tested the mettle of even the most assured entrepreneurs. Spring brought uncertainty, fear and vulnerability to our lives. In these unprecedented times, new operational models emerged quickly. Local distillery Patent 5 and rural brewery Farmery went into the production of hand sanitizer. Fashion designers Lennard Taylor and Erin Kembel added protective masks to their lines. Local stores amped up their commitment to online shopping and added delivery to their offerings. Restaurants started selling groceries. Innovation kept us carrying on and prompted a surge of rallying for small business. Social media accounts of Winnipeg companies radiated with messages of gratitude. The positive energy amidst global misery was inspiring at a time it was most needed. The innate resourcefulness of Manitobans has enabled us to adapt to difficult conditions and transition through re-opening phases successfully. For this we can be proud. A global pandemic devastating tourism and restaurants worldwide puts the future of this magazine at risk too. Ciao! celebrates regional flavour and a city magazine like this depends on advertising support from the community. Our core strength, and our raison d’etre, is what makes us most vulnerable. So, I began making phone calls to other companies who depend on the restaurant industry’s success. By promoting themselves in Ciao! they would be assisting us in promoting Manitoba restaurants. As such, new publisher’snote advertisements from a few national food companies got this issue to print. Gratitude doesn’t seem like a big enough word! The decision makers shared a common response: helping customers helps their business too. This special summer issue is filled with great ways to enjoy summer in the city. It is a summer of nature—hiking, biking and picnicking—and street-side shopping and dining is the play. Inthekitchen spotlights favourite dishes found in great places, making this an eater’s go-to guide worth keeping. People are looking for new ways to support local businesses. Manitoba families are exploring attractions, new places close to home and finding world class destinations in our own backyard. Perhaps money that has been freed up will be happily spent in new ways and you are ready to treat yourselves after months of isolating. That got us thinking. How could we take our support for local small companies to a higher level? The answer became clear. We know our readers are seeking distinctive businesses of local origin, so Ciao! wants to make it easier for them to stand out. That is why we have renewed our commitment to boosting star businesses by relaunching our Be Vocal, Buy Local campaign. Look for window decals bearing this message city-wide. Independents bring local flavour to the mix—and that is the essence of what Ciao! is all about. Laurie Hughes, Publisher Enhance your table with beautiful pottery. Handcrafted in Manitoba. Artists: Kathryne Koop (plate) Steve Jorgenson (square casserole) 778 Corydon Ave. 204-475-8088 www.stonewaregallery.com Summer mer Entertaining Get Your Backyard Cooking Game On! Mon - Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am - 5pm, Sun 12 - 4pm d.a. Niels is committed to the health and safety of our customers and employees. Curbside pickup is available. BE VOCAL, BUY LOCAL! 485 Berry Street 204-953-2345 danielsgourmetkitchenware.ca ciao! / summer / two thousand twenty 3