Renovating Elora’s Historic Commercial Hotel is deeply personal to me because I grew up in this town, surrounded by the beauty of the gorge, the charm of downtown, and the magic of the cinema. As a child, watching films here opened up a whole new world for me. They were my first glimpse into different cultures, places, and ideas far beyond what I knew growing up in a small Canadian town. Now, after having traveled to every continent, I can trace my love for globetrotting back to those early days at the Elora cinema. That’s why saving not just the hotel, but also the theatre - a place that sparked curiosity and imagination for me and many other kids - was so important to me.

Taking on a project like this wasn’t easy. You might say we jumped in without fully realizing the extent of the work: the years of planning, permits, and endless meetings required just to get the go-ahead. There were many moments when it would have been easier to give up, but my love for this space kept me going. I know the hotel represents a piece of Elora’s soul - a place that’s always been more than just a building. It was the social center of our town for decades, a lively hub where people gathered, connected, and found a sense of belonging. In today’s world, where the idea of community feels increasingly at risk, I believe it’s crucial to hold onto places like this, where people can come together, share stories, and feel part of something bigger.

I’ve dedicated much of my life to education, teaching at art schools with hands-on programs that help students find their place in the world. I want this building to offer the same opportunities to others. I want it to be a living, breathing part of Elora’s future - a space where history is respected, but also where new stories are made. Just like in so many small towns across Europe, where the town center is the heart of community life, I want to preserve that sense of togetherness as Elora grows. Restoring this historic building isn’t just about saving it; it’s about ensuring our town remains a place where people feel truly at home - a place where they can live, grow, and experience the true meaning of community.