- by Anne Finlay-Stewart, Editor

Since I was escorted out of the Heritage Place Mall by Security a few years ago I haven't been back much, but I went this week.

Here are a few observations – feel free to go check it out yourself.

The You-Are-Here map has two big red “Coming Soon” stickers. One announces Leons' move to the former Sears space (clearly in progress) and one says Popeye's Louisiana Kitchen in the former Pizza Hut (not so much visible progress).

There is a tasty addition to the mall though – McFadden's Best Homemade Ice Cream. Google is of no help at all on details, but the staff at the Owen Sound Sweet Shoppe say it is made in Collingwood by the store owner, Kevin McFadden. Delicious sounding flavours – I can confirm that the Toasted Coconut is as-advertised.

The food court is reduced to three occupants- Subway, Famous Wok, and Just Like Home Cafe – plenty of space for Tom Thomson reproductions and a sign to advertise for...more occupants.

Other empty store spaces in the mall are being put to creative uses.

The LEt's GO Lounge was closed – whether temporarily or permanently was unclear, but it appeared to still be full of ready-to-build Lego.

A former retail space is advertised as the Make Space - “new workshop space that is available to rent, on a daily basis, to anyone wanting to host a workshop - Artists, makers, chefs, entrepreneurs...” Folding tables and chairs appear to be part of the package – not much ambience but the space is  accessible, well-lit and has lots of parking.

In a tradional celebration of that sacred holiday, anyone with a ready $5 (cash only) can get a digital photo of their pet with the Easter bunny next Thursday,  and Saturday there will be an Easter egg hunt, courtesy of our colleagues at Mix106.

It isn't often that you go to the mall and someone wants to give you money, but if your charitable organization supports women or children, the Ascena Retail Group (Maurices, among others) might have up to $100,000 for you. This is the Roslyn S. Jaffe Awards Program which “celebrates everyday heroes who make the world a better place for women and/or children through innovative and entrepreneurial social reform, specifically in the areas of health, education, leadership development, and self-esteem.”

(I did run into Security but apparently my years of good behaviour have paid off.)