Monforte is young; still working to understand what it can and should be in the world. Where do we sell, what chains of distribution should we use, how do we present ourselves to the community?  

I wanted to talk to you about something that came up last year that I am excited about. Javid from The Loft came by Trinity Bellwood Market to say “hi” on his way to Scadding Court Community Marketplace to look at a year-round booth for selling t-shirts etc. The idea of a spot in downtown Toronto where Monforte could be present was an opportunity that I didn’t want to miss.

Monforte is now at Scadding Court cubicles (at Dundas and Bathurst) and we are trying to figure out what we want it to be. For sure we will always have all of our cheese, meat, and crackers there. As well, we would like to sell grilled cheese sandwiches, tomato soup, water buffalo ice cream and chocolate chip cookies made from our own butter. But Monforte is still acting a bit like a teenager trying to figure itself out and this could change in a minute; at this point we are hoping to be open 5 days a week starting just after Easter.

As many of you know I have three sons: Daniel, Ben and Christian. They have all become unique and wonderful people. Many of you don’t know my middle son Ben. Ben is the artist in the family and is in residence at Scadding Court until he gets a teaching job.  

Please check out the Scadding Court Community Market video and if you have a chance drive by, honk your horn, wave at Ben, stop and buy some cheese and watch what it turns into; at the very least life at Monforte is never, ever boring.

Be well. Fondly, 
Ruth

“Believe it or not I brought a brick share in Monforte Dairy on the basis of what I read in the paper about your cheese. Perhaps this summer, I can finally visit the dairy and see how cheese is made by you. And taste it!.”

Elizabeth Wynen

“It’s a wonderful project – in all the important ways – and I’m dazzled by your determination and creative thinking!”

Charis Wahl

“I did it (purchased a CSA subscription) because I believe in you and what you are doing. So good luck – we are all rooting for you.”

Sharon Swallows