Cottage Country Lifestyle Magazine - Christmas 2021 Issue

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CHRISTMAS 2021

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Cottage Country

Cottage Country LIFESTYLE

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS with Mark's

Since 1994

Gift Guide Snowmobile Trails Seasonal Plants Drag Boat Champion Shawn Dunbar Recipes

HOME & COTTAGE • EVENTS • DESIGN • LAKES • RECIPES • DIY • KIDS CORNER • PETS & VETS • IN THE NEWS

Cottage Country's FREE Multi Award Winning Cottage Lifestyle Magazine!

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Cottage Country

Cottage Country

CONTE CON TEN NTS

LIFESTYLE

CHRISTMAS 2021

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS with Mark's

Page 10

12 Soles4Souls 13 A Year of Cheer - Boyer gives back in 2021 16 A Different Kind of Countdown 17 Seasonal Plants All Year 19 Your Local Destination Year 'Round at Lockside 20 The Old TIn Shed Celebrates Christmas 23 8 Reasons to Shop Locally & Buy Canadian 24 Those Were the Days - Beyond Tomorrow 29 'Tis the Season: Weaving the Tale of Frankincense 31 Family-owned business; Success - Lifestyle Home Products 32 What's New at New Beginnings 35 Empire Cheese Cooperative - Making Curd Since 1870 36 Drag Boat Champion - Shawn Dunbar 40 Discover OFSC Snowmobile Trails This Winter 42 Lighthouse - Helping You Make New Traditions 43 Alderville's War Memorial 45 Pauline Kiely's Latest Memoir 47 Recipes 48 Kids Corner 49 Enjoying the Gifts of Winter, Naturally.

Page 15 50 Pets & Vets Cross Wind Farm Presents the 53 Pyle Group Happy Body Collection 55 Chamber News PUBLISHER & DESIGN Kelly Welsh, Owner COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Emily Ireland ADVERTISING SALES Deb Mahoney, Belinda Wilson, Jasmine Kellestine, Anita Guymer & Linda Blunt CONTRIBUTORS Russ Sanders, Emily Ireland, Belinda Wilson, Jacob Rodenburg, Don Willcock, Heather Doughty, , Correne Omland, Jacquelyn Toupin, Pyle Group, Michelle Berwick & Ineke Turner

ON THE COVER

Mark's Photo Credit Heather Doughty Photography

Page 26 Designer Michelle Burwick

Page 38 Accelerated Technologies

2021 Winner Best Advertising / Marketing Agency 2021 Winner Best Graphic Design Services Peterborough This Week Readers' Choice

2021 Gold Winner Best Graphic Design Services Kawartha This Week Readers' Choice

2020 Diamond Winner Best Advertising / Marketing Agency Peterborough This Week Readers' Choice

2020 Platinum Winner - Graphic Design Services 2020 Platinum Winner - Graphic / Web Designer

Volume 28 • Number 6 • 705-313-2245 • www.cottage.rocks Cottage Country Connection - Your Cottage Lifestyle Magazine is published 6 times a year by Cottage Country Lifestyle Magazine Inc., 705-313-2245, PO Box 8, Buckhorn ON K0L 1J0. Printing 18,000 per issue and distributed by Canada Post (to Cottages, Homes & Businesses) and distributed to drop locations. Also promoted and viewed Online.

In Print, Online and on Social. Copyright 1994-2021. All rights reserved.

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2016 Business Awards of Excellence

Entrepreneur Innovation Recipient

MARKETING & PROMOTION

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Since 1994

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Welcome to the Holiday Issue As the snowflakes fall and our beautiful region transforms from harvest oranges to a blanket of winter white, we begin to turn inward for the season of ‘hibernation’. This is a great time of year to make adjustments to your home, and invite fresh winter vibes into your spaces. Let the bright white of winter shine in and light up your memories from the year past. As we reflect on 2021, we can all say that it has been another year for the books; unprecedented changes and new beginnings have definitely graced all of our lives. Whether the year was one to reflect on happily or not there is one thing we all need to bring to the proverbial Christmas table – a smile. For if you bring a smile, whether shopping, hitting a drive through or just walking down the street you have the power to light up someone’s day; and isn’t that what we all need right now and through the holiday bustle? A big, huge, happy, nice-to-see-you SMILE. Welcome to the Christmas issue of Cottage Country Lifestyle Magazine. In this issue we share with you the joys of winter and of the holidays. There is no better time to bundle up and hit the great outdoors for a little winter fun. Get out on the OFSC snowmobile trails with The Intrepid Snowmobiler, whip up some delicious mouthwatering meals with Weekend at the Cottage and their recipes, or do some crafting with the kids with ideas from Jacquelyn Toupin and Jacob Rodenburg – all in this issue. We also focus on shopping local with ideas to keep your dollars supporting local businesses, and we have our helpful Gift Guide to showcase the great finds that all of our fabulous advertisers want to share with you this season. Find lots of gift ideas inside, including local author Pauline Kiely’s newest book for the reader on your list. The new year brings with it ideas for renovating and refreshing your home, and we have some design inspiration waiting in the pages of this issue for you.

Winter has come, Cottage Country. ‘Tis the season to be warm and cozy, so gather up a blanket and give this holiday issue a read.

Merry Christmas to you and yours – from all of us at Cottage Country Lifestyle Magazine; may 2022 bring you joy and prosperity.

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Since 1994

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THE OLD TIN SHED

25 Sherbourne St S, Bancroft, ON K0L 1C0 www.theoldtinshed.com

EURO DELIGHT

370 Kent St W, Lindsay, ON K9V 6G8 www. eurodelight.ca

TODD EQUIPMENT LTD

955 Syer Line, Fraserville, ON K0L 1V0 www.toddequipmentltd.com

MARK'S

1230 Lansdowne St W, Peterborough, ON K9J 2A1

WADDELL CUSTOM HOMES Apsley, ON www. waddellhomes.ca

RIVERVIEW PARK & ZOO

LAKEFIELD FLOWERS AND GIFTS

1300 Water St, Peterborough, ON K9J 7G4 www.riverviewparkandzoo.ca

56 Queen Street Lakefield, ON. K0L 2H0 www.lakefieldflowersandgifts.com

LOCKSIDE TRADING COMPANY

2805 River Ave. Young's Point, ON K0L 3G0 212 Highland St., Haliburton, ON K0M 1S0 www.lockside.com

CAHILL'S OUTERWEAR 134 Hunter St W, Peterborough, ON K9H 2K8 www.cahills.ca

BARN & BUNKIE

41 Lindsay St, Fenelon Falls, ON K0M 1N0 www.barnandbunkie.com

MONAGHAN LUMBER SPECIALTIES

2129 Davis Rd, Cavan-Monaghan, ON K9J 0G5 www.monaghanlumber.com

NEW BEGINNINGS CONTRACTING SERVICES 405 Cedar Glen Rd, Dunsford, ON K0M 1L0 www.newbeginningscontractingservices.org

CROSS WIND FARM 705-295-5106 www.crosswindfarm.ca

OVERHEAD DOOR

871 Webber Ave, Peterborough, ON K9J 5X9 www.overheaddoor.com

BUCKHORN SAND & GRAVEL

THE WINE SHOPPE ON PARK

134 Melody Bay Rd, Buckhorn, ON K0L 1J0 www.buckhornsandgravel.com

WRD COTTAGE RENTAL AGENCY

83 Maple Ave, Haliburton, ON www.ontariocottagerental.com

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LAKESIDE LAZER liz.phillips@sympatico.ca

392 Brock St, Peterborough, ON K9H 2R5 www.wineshoppeonpark.ca

BRITISH EMPIRE FUELS

41 Kawartha Lakes County Box 359, Bobcaygeon, ON K0M 1A0 www. britishempirefuels.com

Christmas 2021 ~ Cottage Country Lifestyle Magazine

GREEN TRACTORS

114 Heights Rd, Omemee, ON K0L 2W0 www.greentractors.ca

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BIGLEY SHOES & CLOTHING 39 Bolton St, Bobcaygeon, ON K0M 1A0 www.bigleyshoes.com

LIGHTHOUSE REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE

17 May St., Fenelon Falls ON K0M 1N0 www.lighthouse-realestate.ca

PETERBOROUGH MUSEUM & ARCHIVES

ART GALLERY OF PETERBOROUGH

300 Hunter St E, Peterborough, ON K9J 6Y5 www.peterboroughmuseumandarchives.ca

250 Crescent St, Peterborough, ON K9J 2G1 www. agp.on.ca

LOCKER AT THE FALLS RESTAURANT & PUB 9 Lindsay St, Fenelon Falls, ON K0M 1N0

SHORELINE DOCKS

Lakehurst, ON www.shorelinecustomdocks.ca

HARWOOD KITCHENS

27 Lansdowne St, Peterborough, ON K9J 1X8 www.harwoodkitchens.com

FOR THE BOOK LOVER ON YOUR LIST

GRIFFIN'S GREENHOUSES

705-344-9287 www. paulinekiely.com

3026 Lakefield Rd, Peterborough, ON K9J 6X5 www.griffinsgreenhouses.com

DELECTABLE FINE FOODS 550 Lansdowne St #13, Peterborough, ON K9J 8J8 www. delectablefinefoods.ca

THE CANADIAN CANOE MUSEUM

910 Monaghan Road Peterborough, ON K9J 5K4 www. canoemuseum.ca

MAINSTREET BAR & GRILL 1939 Lakehurst Road, Buckhorn, ON KOL 1JO www.mainstreetlanding.ca

ACCELERATED TECHNOLOGIES

KAWARTHA SETTLERS VILLAGE 85 Dunn Street, PO Box 755, Bobcaygeon, ON K0M 1A0 www.settlersvillage.org

HIGHLANDS PROPANE 5077 ON-35, Fenelon Falls, ON K0M 1N0 www.highlandspropane.ca

705-657-9490 www. acceleratedtechnologies.ca

EYETECH VISION CARE

1840 Lansdowne St W Unit 6, Peterborough, ON K9K 2M9

FOUR POINTS CONSTRUCTION

BURLEIGH FALLS INN

53 Queen St, Lakefield, ON K0L 2H0 www.fourpointsconstruction.ca

4791 ON-28, Lakefield, ON K0L 2H0 (Burleigh Falls) www.burleighfallsinn.com

NEIL JOHNSTON HEATING 347 Pido Rd Unit 6, Peterborough, ON K9J 6X7 www.neiljohnstonheating.com

A1 LIGHTING

638 The Kingsway, Peterborough www.a1lighting.net

EMPIRE CHEESE CO-OP 1120 County Rd 8, Campbellford, ON K0L 1L0 www.empirecheese.ca

GLIDING SHELF SOLUTIONS 168 Lakeview Dr, Campbellford, ON K0L 1L0 www.glidingshelf.ca

LIFESTYLE HOME PRODUCTS 944 Crawford Dr, Peterborough, ON K9J 8K1 www. lifestylesunrooms.com

Collecting Toys & Items for the local Toy Drive until December 10th

FISHER EXCAVATING

Kawartha Lakes www.fisherexcavating.ca

Please donate if you are able to.

GRR8 FINDS MARKETS 27 Colborne St, Fenelon Falls, ON K0M 1N0

Since 1994

BOYER BANCROFT 29668 ON-62, Bancroft, ON K0L 1C0 www.boyergmbancroft.com

Home & Cottage ~ Christmas 2021 9 1-833-942-1539 • www.boyergmbancroft.com • 296

Home for the Holidays with Mark's

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Building upon more than 40 years as Canada’s leader in workwear, Mark’s brings authenticity to casualwear, footwear, and workwear for men and ladies alike. With a friendly team committed to excellent customer service, Mark’s Peterborough is here to help you discover All Things Simple and dress for the joys of life in Canada.

Always ready for the winter, Mark’s is here to help Canadians stay warm and dry when the snow flies. Mark’s offers a wide selection of outerwear from WindRiver, Columbia, and Helly Hansen that will be your go-to jacket when working and playing in the snow. Our men's and ladies' WindRiver puffer jackets are the perfect piece of outerwear for a crisp day because they feature T-MAX insulation to keep you warm and are water repellent with Hyper-Dri HD1 technology to bead off light rain and snow. Winter boots with enhanced slip-resistant treads – available in both casual and safety styles – will help keep you on your feet when the ground gets slick, and Below Zero wool socks will keep your feet toasty all day.

Looking for the perfect gift? You can never have enough flannel, and men’s and ladies’ WindRiver flannels offer that lived-in feel - a perfect blend of fashion and function. Carhartt toques and Saxx underwear make great stocking-stuffers, and a Carhartt logo hooded-sweatshirt is as tough as the worker wearing it. Mark’s offers cozy and stylish men’s and ladies’ pajamas for relaxing around the home, and we are proud to offer Canadian-made Redwood Classics 100% heavy-cotton fleece sweatshirts and camp pants that keep you comfortable when the mercury drops!

Searching for a fashion-forward fall look? Grab a pair of mittens, scarf, and toque from the WindRiver Heritage Collection. One part cozy and another part throwback, these are timeless classics that live, breathe, and look like Canada. How about stocking up on jeans, a logo shirt, or sherpa-lined trucker jacked from Levi’s? Add in a pair of casual Blundstone boots from Mark’s Peterborough’s expanded selection, and you have a casual wardrobe that screams classic Canadian style.

Shopping for clothes should be the easiest thing on your to-do list, so you can get back to enjoying what really matters. Visit Mark’s Peterborough today and let our dedicated team help you discover All Things Simple.

Mark’s, 1230 Lansdowne St W, Peterborough 705-748-9570 www.marks.com Photo Credit Heather Doughty Photography

Since 1994

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Soles4Souls We at BioPed Footcare Peterborough believe that everyone around the world deserves a good pair of shoes! Our partner, Soles4Souls, is a not-for-profit global social enterprise committed to fighting poverty through the mass collection and distribution of gently used shoes. We collect used shoes of any type and any condition, which are distributed to 128 different countries around the world.

Once a year several BioPed employees travel to these countries where we fit many children and families in need with free shoes. Soles4Souls also trains women to run businesses to refurbish and sell these shoes in their local markets; a sustainable way for people to lift themselves and their families out of poverty. This is giving them a hand up and not a hand out. These experiences have really galvanized our belief that something as trivial as an old pair of shoes really can make a difference in these people’s lives.

We’ve been working hard collecting shoes in the Peterborough and surrounding area for about 5 years now. We have collected, on average, about 1200-1300 pair per year! Several local businesses around town have helped out participating in shoe drives or hosting shoe collection boxes such as Anytime Fitness, TD bank, BMO, PRH, The Medical Centre, Saint Peter’s Secondary School, and St. Andrews Church in Lindsay.

We have been doing contactless drop offs at the clinic; for larger quantities, I am happy to drive to you/them for a contactless pick-up. If you are a business/organization and would like to have a collection box we would be happy to bring it to you.

As the seasons are changing and with the extra time we have on our hands lately, now is the time to clean out those closets and declutter those too-small or unwanted shoes.

For more information visit them online at www.bioped.com/peterborough 655 The Queensway Unit 6, Peterborough 705-743-1447

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A Year of Cheer Boyer gives back in 2021 The Boyer Family Charitable Fund was created by the Boyer Family to help support the many communities they have lived and worked in for the past 40 years. In 2021 the Boyer Family donated $20,000 to 7 charities across the Durham, Kawartha and Northumberland regions.

Family has given us that leeway which is wonderful." says Kim Bishop.

"The committee made a conscious decision to take a step back from a big amount of community fundraising. We wanted to be sensitive to the many needs in the community over the last year."

The chosen charities in 2021 included The Boys & Girls Club of Kawartha Lakes, Ross Memorial Hospital, The United Way of Durham Region, The North Kawartha Food Bank Inc., the Apsley Community Care office and the Northumberland Fare Share Food Bank all receiving various monetary donations in the thousands.

Kim goes on to point out, “the hospital spent an enormous amount of funds on fighting the pandemic by purchasing necessary PPE, upgrading some equipment, increasing staffing...etc."

Boyer Bancroft was thrilled to help present a donation to Quinte Health Care North Hastings Hospital in Bancroft. The Boyer Family Charitable Fund gifted the Bancroft Hospital $5000 to aid in the fight against COVID-19.

"This donation will go towards the area of greatest need - the Boyer

Collecting Toys & Items for the local Toy Drive until December 10th Please donate if you are able to.

The Bancroft community has worked tirelessly to pivot and accommodate in response to the ever-changing needs of COVID protocols, and the Boyer Family is very proud to support their efforts.

The Boyer family of dealerships treats every customer like family, they invite you to come in and experience their giving spirit in person.

PICTURED L-R Ryan Courtney Boyer GM Bancroft General Manager, Brandon Boyer, and Kim Bishop North Hastings Fund Development Committee Chair

We would like to thank you for your continued loyalty to our dealership, and send our best wishes to you this Holiday Season!

1-833-942-1539 • www.boyergmbancroft.com • 29668 Hwy 62 North, Bancroft Since 1994

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Cross Wind Farm Presents the

Happy Body Collection Happy Body Collection is a local family-owned business in Keene, ON. This is where we turn our farm fresh goat milk into handcrafted and sustainably made beauty products. But it is also something so much more. It is our home, and it is where the idea for our Happy Body Collection was stumbled upon.

My name is Mackenzie, and this is my story: When I was born, I inherited chronically dry skin from my father.

My mother had no idea how to manage my skin condition, as her skin has always been oily. As I aged, my dry skin quickly progressed. There weren't many natural treatments available, and my mother did not want to expose my sensitive skin to harsh chemicals or artificial ingredients. My mother decided to take research into her own hands. Coincidentally, she discovered that goat milk has the potential to heal and soothe irritated and incredibly dry skin! It seemed too good to be true that the animals we were raising on our very own farm could be the solution to my skin issues. I was given pure goat milk baths, with shocking and delightful results. My skin cleared up, and became silky smooth.

store. We now ship our products all over the world, providing all natural skin care solutions to our wonderful and ever-growing loyal customers.

Thank you so much for supporting us in our journey, and we hope you enjoy our products as much as we enjoy creating them!

For the holiday season we would like to offer Cottage Country Magazine readers the chance to get 10% OFF by using code: KAWARTHAHOLIDAY at checkout on our online store www.happybodycollection.ca

As I grew older, my mother and I continued to experiment with goat milk skin care. I no longer need to take pure goat milk baths, as we developed our luxurious line of soaps, creams, and cleansers to heal and soothe my skin!

We are so happy that we are able to share my story, and our products, with the world. While we began our sales of soaps solely in local farmers' markets, in 2016 we opened up our online Since 1994

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A Different Kind of Countdown Our family begins our Yuletide celebration with a 3-week countdown.

It’s one of our most favourite traditions— a seasonal activity every day until the Solstice.

A bit of parenting experience has taught me that, most times, any post-holiday blues stem from an inevitable yearly reflection, a rerealization that they ‘grow up so fast’. It's beautiful, but it’s also raw.

This little itinerary reminds me that I did enough with our kids— we made memories.

Each day in the month of December, I leave a card for our children listing the day’s fun. I don’t go out of my way to plan things we wouldn’t already be doing, or things that cost; in fact, I use our countdown to plan out the list of events I was already hoping to squeeze in. Instead of buying advent calendars with candy or trinkets to gift each day, I use this method to pace our typical holiday schedule, so we don’t over-plan or overspend.

What do I include? Well, at some point, we will get out our Christmas books, so that fits nicely onto a card at the beginning of the month.

This way we have three weeks to enjoy them.

Other ideas are: • Craft station set up to make gifts • Afternoon hot chocolate • To the tree farm!

• Let’s decorate gingerbread • Anyone up for a car tour of our town’s lights?

• Toy catalogues + a marker for circling anyone?

• A walk in the snowy woods together • Let’s leave a treat in our neighbour’s mail box Some days will be more exciting than others, and that’s alright. Each year we modify the activities based on our life, and you can too!

Maybe you can only fit it in on weekends, or maybe you jot a note on each day of the calendar. Of course, there will be times when it just doesn’t work. On those occasions, I keep a little stash of chocolate, stickers, and hot chocolate packets to tuck away with the day’s note card instead of an activity. The goal is never weeks of rollercoasterlike highs, but rather an opportunity for connection, sparks of childlike joy, and if we’re lucky, a memory for the bank.

Jacquelyn Toupin lives with her family in a heritage farm house that’s been in her family for several generations. You can follow them on YouTube @oldfarmnewfarm or on Instagram @raisinghay

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Seasonal Plants All Year Several varieties of flowers are produced just for this season; most of these indoor flowers are meant to be one-and-done and not to become long lasting houseplants. Still, some indoor gardeners wish to keep these seasonal plants as long as possible and to do so requires very specific care.

Poinsettias - to keep beautiful during the winter months, location is key. Select a spot in your home that is brightly lit with lots of indirect sunlight and out of cold drafts or warms bursts of air (furnace or wood stove). Water when soil feels dry to the touch, do not overwater or allow to sit in water in the wrapper or outer pot it may be in.

Yellowing or dropping leaves are signs of watering or temperature issues. To restore a dormant poinsettia to colour is labour-intensive work: maintain light watering (not allowing leaves to curl and fall off ) until Spring and then prune leaving about 8 inches of stem, move outdoors in June into a partial sun location and water as needed. In mid-September move the potted plant back indoors to a brightly lit location and, at that time, the bracts (leaves) should re-colour.

Cyclamen - a more modern holiday look that can last past the main season and bloom nicely in the Spring too. Cyclamen are dormant in the hot summer months as they thrive in cool temperatures. These frilly, fluffy plants are best placed in bright light during the cool months and in filtered light in the Spring. As houseplants they prefer a cool environment between 12-20 degrees. Water only when soil is dry to the touch and water carefully trying not to get excess water on the stems or leaves.

Amaryllis - a beautiful blooming bulb that you can plant or might receive planted in a pot or even in a colourful wax covering. Amaryllis bulbs typically take 4-6 weeks to bloom from unsprouted bulb stage to first bloom so timing is key for this beauty to bloom on time for the holiday. To hurry along bloom, place in a warm, brightly lit location; to delay bloom, remove to a cool, less sunny spot in your home. A good quality Amaryllis bulb will produce at least two stalks with multiple blooms bursting open, usually one at a time. The newest phenomenon is the waxed amaryllis that is pre-soaked in water, giving it the nutrients needed to bloom and thrive encased in the wax coating. No further soil, water or care is needed! While the waxed bulbs are one-and-done, traditional Amaryllis bulbs can be set in an inconspicuous spot to allow to die back and in June planted outdoors in a partial sun location (to nourish the bulb again). Before frost the potted bulb is moved to a cool, dark spot in your home until returning it to a sunny spot in early November so it can re-sprout for the next holiday season.

By Vikki Whitney,Owner of Griffin’s Greenhouses 705-652-8638 or 1-877-647-4334 www.griffinsgreenhouses.com Since 1994

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It’s Your Local Destination Year ‘Round Lockside Trading Company is more than just shopping - it’s your Christmas destination. Lockside has been a major part of its communities since 1987, making it a key destination in Peterborough, the Kawarthas, and the Haliburton Highlands - especially during the holiday season.

us all, instore, and online.

Serving you throughout the year instore at Young’s Point right in the heart of the Kawarthas - offering over 7,000 square feet of everything you need - and in downtown Haliburton with over 5,000 square feet of unique shopping, you can now shop Lockside’s online store, here for your convenience, helping serve you from any location.

A multi-national award-winning retailer, Lockside sets itself apart from the rest with top-notch service from the beginning of your shopping experience to the end.

From sourcing the right light to helping you with turnkey projects, their successful Interior Design Service covers everything for your home, cottage, and commercial space.

Both brick and mortar locations offer a mix of home décor to help you create a warm and inviting atmosphere in which to sit back, relax, and entertain throughout the holidays. The stores’ selections are in constant change throughout the seasons, offering a multitude of choice from quality custom furniture, lighting, home décor, great giftware, casual clothing, and bedding plus everything in between. Lockside is your one-stop shop all year ‘round, helping you with personalized shopping, decorating ideas, unique gifts for everyone on your list, and giftwrapping - all in a safe, fun, festive, relaxing atmosphere.

With their dedicated staff and quality products, Lockside caters to customers on any budget, in any location, with any look and style, by offering complimentary interior design with your purchase and having all your design needs under one roof. This design service includes virtual, in-store and on-site consultations, helping with room layouts, color, fabric selections and much more. It is a service that works with the customer, giving direction and confidence to create the living space you have been dreaming of. In addition, Lockside carries window treatments, floor coverings, and many lines of indoor and outdoor furniture.

Lockside is dedicated to supporting Canadians by sourcing and offering Canadian-made products at great pricing and superior quality. Specializing in custom Canadian-made furniture, the team at Lockside know the importance of keeping it local and supporting our fellow Canadians -because where you spend your money affects

Experience it for yourself - it’s a must see!

Since 1994

For more information, upcoming events, and promotions, please visit www.lockside.com and find them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Home & Cottage ~ Christmas 2021 19

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. The cozy holiday time we eagerly await all year; but The Old Tin Shed doesn’t wait! They have Christmas all year ‘round. There is a secret room - the Christmas room - and it is found in the old barn behind the store.

In the Christmas shop you will find all the trimmings of the holiday season all year long – Kathryn (owner, and resident Christmas-aholic) believes it is never too early to begin planning for the season, and she thinks keeping the magic alive all year ‘round in what they call ‘Santa’s Workshop’ is just what Christmas lovers need.

As we usher in the cooler weather and the temperatures dip, we begin to see the main store at The Old Tin Shed

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transform from Harvest to Holidays beginning in November. The Christmas room in the barn closes for the Winter and Christmas moves to the main shop with themed Christmas trees and holiday themed décor. More and more sparkle is added every year with a new tree or two, and no matter your style, you will find decorations ranging from rustic to bling and everything in between.

As restrictions for shopping and indoor gathering numbers loosen, the staff are

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able to let more folks in the doors at once, but don’t be surprised if you still encounter a line-up at the door – there is so much to see and so many one-ofa-kind treasures it brings people out in numbers. The staff at The Tin Shed work tirelessly to create an experience for every shopper - after all this church– turned-tourist-destination is a hot spot for Christmas shoppers!

This year you will find favourites like large metal bells – so great to ‘ring’ in the new year! You will also still see gnomes peeking out all over the store, they have been a huge hit this year and go very quickly – but The Old Tin Shed always has more on the way. This is the time of year to stock up on amazing smelling candles, handmade soaps or popular charcuterie boards; The Tin Shed also has a fun selection of quirky towels with cute sayings on them – Kathryn says you can tell when someone is in the linen section because there are always giggles ringing through the store. They have a great selection of perfect stocking stuffers, local honey and preserves. There is a well-stocked iron section with hooks, knobs and hinges for every DIY project, and a great selection of metal signs,

Since 1994

lighting and décor, clothing, jewellery, giftware and everything in between - a little something for everyone on your list.

Owners Kathryn and Geoffrey Webber are proud to offer 100-mile sourced products; this means they work hard to support local artisans and carry these handmade items in the shop – and you can’t go wrong with handmade.

When you visit the store you will always find a handpicked collection of

refurbished furniture, all done at the Tin Shed with their signature Fusion Mineral Paint and available for purchase.

In the new year Kathryn hopes to be able to begin offering paint demos instore for the DIY crowd – so keep an eye on their social media accounts for announcements.

For more information, contact Kathryn & Geoffrey Webber The Old Tin Shed, 613-332-6565, www.the-old-tin-shed.myshopify.com

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8 Reasons

to Shop Locally & Buy Canadian In an age of online shopping and big box stores, most everything we need is easily available with a few keystrokes. Sadly, most of what you get is fast, disposable and cheap. Shopping locally has never been more important.

1. Economy Local businesses are the backbone of our economy. Studies show that for every $100 spent locally, $45 will stay in that community, and $9 within province. When you spend that same $100 at international corporations only $14 stays in the community – mostly in way of payroll; the rest going to the corporation and out of country.

2. Creating Jobs Shopping locally creates a strong job market, keeping local workers from searching employment out of town.

Local employers are more likely to pay higher average wages than internationally owned corporations.

3. Investing in Community Local businesses are owned by folks who live in your community who are passionately invested in the welfare and future of the community.

Keeping your shopping dollars local is a great way to reinvest in your town. Charities are often supported by local business, too; meaning more access to supports like hospitals, clinics, schools & sporting teams.

4. Customer Service and Experience Local owners know their clientele, offering products suitable for your specific area; based on their customer’s choices rather than national trends. Also, if anything goes wrong you have a local company to go to, personal touches and local face-to-face customer Since 1994

service means strong customer relationships.

5. Shopping Online Many online retailers show deals that seem too good to be true, sadly this is often the case. Local shops offer very competitive pricing when you take the time to look; plus online, original prices tend to be inflated, making high-percentage discounts give false ideas of saving large.

Independent companies can provide lots of great deals, too! Check locally before heading online.

6. Personality and Character The greatest thing about independent and small businesses is that people, not boards, and stockholders, run them! In a world increasingly dominated by chain stores all designed to look the same, independent businesses bring much-needed originality and variety to communities. Unique, one-ofa-kind shops aren’t only ‘stores’, they become destinations – these attractions in turn make your town a popular stop, which is great for all businesses.

7. Environmental Impact Choosing a local company over a chain has a positive impact on the environment. Small business’ usually set up shop in the Town/Village center, a centralized variety is much friendlier to a community than out-of-town shopping malls and box stores. Less city sprawl equals less congestion, habitat loss and pollution.

Purchases online means shipping – deliveries and packaging for every individual item increases our carbon footprint. By purchasing locally, we considerably reduce pollution as well as traffic, improving the quality of our communities.

8. Entrepreneurship Supporting local businesses means helping support an entrepreneur’s dream of growing a thriving business. Shopping only online giants or with big corporate retailers means many smaller owners are forced to close; the cost is lost jobs. Make shopping locally a tradition, and a lifelong way of purchasing; face to face with people from your community.

Interaction and touch is something lacking in our online world, experiencing products in person is important. Without the creativity and innovative minds of local entrepreneurs, industries would not advance at the rate that they are.

So, this year, focus locally on what your dollars can do. We have all heard the sentiments “When you buy from a local business, someone actually does a happy dance.” And, “No big box store is going to sponsor your child’s soccer team.” We all love convenience, but nothing is more convenient than a prosperous local economy – you are able to direct what your spending does, make where we raise our families and spend our time a great place to call ‘Home’.

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“Beyond Tomorrow”

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GUARANTEED FRESH

Once again, a year has gone fleetingly by, a year we would like to forget - yet a year that will forever go down in the annals of history. Of course, the pandemic took centre stage with decisions and indecisions bantering between one another as to who is right and who is wrong. If all factors were lumped together in fighting this deadly virus, then we would have to concede anything that was done to keep Canadians healthy was a good decision. We mourn the many who were victims of COVID-19 and to the families who lost a loved one; in our prayers we give thanks that our names were not among the daily statistics. The vaccine, masks, passports and closures will be debated for years to come.

The plagues of Job seem to have fallen upon North America this past year and in fact the entire world with out-of-control fires that consumed entire towns, terrifying tornadoes that ripped apart communities and floods that washed away not only homes but the hopes, dreams and possibly future of their owners.

We have watched our children finally go back to school knowing it is time to trust that which we once thought to be normal although with expected skepticism. Borders between countries are slowly being opened and loved ones who have been apart for so many agonizing months can once again embrace.

Year after year we witness new horrors, new plagues and new problems, some so dire we even fear for the Earth itself; but there is always one saving grace that finalizes every year and that is Christmas - a time to reflect, a time for families to gather, a time to sing, a time to feast, a time to share and a time to pray for peace on Earth good will toward men in the new year.

EASY ONLINE ORDERING FREE LOCAL DELIVERY EVERY TUESDAY & FRIDAY

www.kitchenfarmacy.ca

I have loved Christmas ever since my Dad lifted me up on his shoulders to place the angel on top of our Christmas tree when I was four years old. I remember when I was ten the Salvation Army silhouetted under the corner street light playing carols as snow fell softly to the ground. Oh, how I loved the huge gatherings at our house in my late teens when relatives, friends and even strangers sat for Mom’s scrumptious Christmas dinners. In the years that followed I looked forward to returning home to Windsor with my wife and family to gather with my siblings and their families. exchanging hugs, kisses and gifts.

I have remembered with sadness the loss of my parents and all six of my siblings but I am left with such happy thoughts of so many wonderful Christmases. Oh yes, I can close my eyes and still feel the warmth of their love, the laughter and happiness that filled our home, the Christmases that have lived in my memory and with hope and faith, Christmases that are yet to come.

P | 705.772.7311 E | info@kitchenfarmacy.ca

From my house to yours, A Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year.

By Russ Sanders epigram@nexicom.net

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Since 1994

Home & Cottage ~ Christmas 2021 25

Goodbye Grey Okay, we know that cool and clean greys were all the rage for a solid seven years. But now, our souls can’t handle dim and grim grey colour palettes any longer. This is not to say you can't still use the colour grey – no, no, we just want to see a warmer tone of it!

We are living through a very grey time in humankind and we need a little warmth, light, and hugs. It's time to use some more sophisticated colours as neutrals in our spaces.

In walk putty, cream, nude, barely-there pinks, and briege or greige? Yes, those are both technical terms. Brown/beige. But not from the ‘90s. The strong yellow and brown undertones have been given the day off so that soft earth tones can come to the forefront.

Wallpaper - one of our favourite things on the planet… and no, we are NOT being dramatic!! Warm up your space with cozy colour palettes and texture. Contrary to popular belief, cheetah is a neutral, and you can’t tell us otherwise! (Casa Grande) For this kitchen, we kept things neutral but warm with this putty-coloured cabinetry to have a cozy vintage vibe in this old-century home. (Project Niagara) Don't you neglect that ceiling. Ceilings are the PERFECT place for an unexpected splash of a warmer colour. This little lady's bedroom got the pop it needed. (Jennifer 3.0) Rugs and runners: Sometimes people think that once you have white in a space you have to match that. This is simply not the case - you can totally mix and match the colours, tones and textures in a space. Here is a great example of this. We painted out the whole staircase in a beautiful true white, and the railings a slightly lighter black, then softened the whole thing up with a warm putty coloured runner with a herringbone pattern and ticking stripe down the front. The crisp white and warm runner allows this featured staircase to have the best of both worlds. (Everson, Niagara)

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Bring in the warmth through fabrics, especially your sofa. We are seeing lighter and warmer fabrics being used to cover large pieces of furniture in spaces. This helps imbue a nice light feeling. This cozy putty-coloured sofa warms up the coolness of the accenting blues in this space perfectly. (Deerwood) Don't stop at fabrics. This may sound odd, but you can bring warmth to a room through tiles! Here we have done a chevron pattern with a terracotta, greige and white colour scheme. (Casa Grande) We have a few go-to colours when we find ourselves using stock paint chips!

Each one of these colours gives off a warm, creamy, dreamy feel that will help break up any coolness in your space.

We know how hard it is to change when you are stuck in your old grey ways! There's no need to dive straight into the deep end on this one. Make little changes here and there through pillows, rugs, art, and maybe even some DIY painted furniture. You will notice right away that whatever your room felt like it was missing is now found, with a little hit of the warm snuggly vibes this cozy colour palette has to offer.

Collingwood: BM

First Light : BM

Balboa Mist: BM

Revere Pewter: BM

Dove White: BM

Award winning Designer Michelle Berwick is the Principal & Creative Founder of Michelle Berwick Design. For almost a decade this notable firm has become sought after for providing livable stylish and uniquely personal interiors. www.michelleberwickdesign.com Since 1994

Home & Cottage ~ Christmas 2021 27

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Tis the Season:

Weaving the Tale of Frankincense From the resin of the Boswellia tree comes the magic and wonder that we know as frankincense. Dating back to the Egyptian era, this sticky sap is well known for its religious and spiritual significance.

Papyri speak of its benefits for throat and respiratory ailments, its use in ancient embalming rituals and even its properties for skin and hair care. Mentioned in the Bible over fifty times, many are familiar with Boswellia as one of the three gifts from the wise men. Revered by ancient mystics for centuries, the aroma of frankincense moves us into the space of sacredness, preparing us for spiritual endeavours and holy writs. The use of either the resin or essential oil is beneficial for grounding, relaxation, purification, and protection.

Like many plants, Boswellia can also be used for healing and

Since 1994

medicinal purposes, as shown by the Egyptians. In fact, this is one of my favourite healers for the skin and can be used in ointments, salves, and infused oils. Modern day research is finding some potentiality for anti-cancer properties, but as with all things, ensure you follow up with your own research. If you decide to work with frankincense, ensure you are using ethical sources for your resin and essential oils. As when things become popular, ethics tend to fall by the wayside. May frankincense bring you glad tidings this winter season.

Correne Omland, Clinical Herbalist & Reiki Practitioner Spiraea Herbal Clinic + Apothecary www.spiraeaherbs.ca facebook.com/spiraeaherbs youtube.com/spiraeaherbs instagram.com/spiraeaherbs

Home & Cottage ~ Christmas 2021 29

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Family-owned businesses = Success Whatever your tradition may be, the holiday season is a wonderful opportunity to set aside the stress and strains of everyday life and celebrate all the special traditions that bring families together. For us, that is what makes the holiday season truly spectacular.

Lifestyle Home Products is proudly 100% Canadian and has been a growing family business and success story since it was founded as Carroll Home Improvements by brothers Bill and Keith Carroll in 1989. The reputation of the company grew as word-of-mouth about the Carrolls’ superior products and customer service spread.

As our family celebrates the holidays, we build and celebrate the emotional value of family. Not only does this strengthen our relationships, but it continues to inspire, strengthen and infuse family value into our company.

Approximately 80% of business in Canada is family owned, and we are proud to be a part of that number. Being a family means we are there for each other through thick and thin, and once you start working with us you become a part of our Lifestyle family.

From our family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas, and good health and happiness in 2022.

"Love my new enclosed front porch. Fantastic service from first contact to final install. Professional, courteous, and efficient.

Love this company. Hope to use them in the future!"

- Liz | Porch Enclosure "Steve and his crew have done an amazing job on my new 3-season sunroom. Very nice, laid-back guys who get the work done quickly and were able to see my vision without having to ask a lot of questions. It's like they read my mind.

They have gone over and beyond my expectations, including replacing a rotted deck board and I didn't even ask them.

The area is left tidy and clean at the end of each day. They listen to my requests with no hesitation or argument.

They are still here putting in the finishing touches. Looking forward to enjoying the new sunroom!!"

- George | Sunroom Since 1994

Home & Cottage ~ Christmas 2021 31

What’s New at New Beginnings

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The construction industry has seen a rapid increase in building projects in the last couple of years, and builders are in the unique position of having too much work. They are hiring seasoned tradespeople, as well as offering apprenticeship opportunities to those who are eager to enter this fast-paced and rapidly growing industry.

New Beginnings Contracting Services continues to be one of the most well-known and trusted all-in-one contracting firms in the Kawarthas, and owner Tania-Joy Bartlett is eager to talk about what’s new. “We are excited to announce that there have been many changes implemented to better serve our clients, including expanding our team with the addition of a new construction manager/estimator, a new asset manager/estimator, as well as more carpenters, electricians, roofers, concrete workers, and labourers.”

Bartlett, ever proud of her New Beginnings family, goes on to introduce some of the new faces on her team: Matthew Boyd is an experienced custom carpenter, able to facilitate a variety of jobs while striving to pass along his knowledge. He has quickly become a mentor to his teammates, and Bartlett couldn’t be more pleased to welcome him aboard.

Virat Paghadal holds a Civil Engineering degree and comes to NBCS from India, where he designed and built high voltage transformer stations. He has come to Canada to expand his skills and knowledge base in the Canadian construction sector. Bartlett is impressed with Paghadal’s drive, saying “With less than one year in Canada Virat has already completed the Project Management certificate at Conestoga College and has relocated to the Peterborough area

Since 1994

after joining our team.”

Justin Bott currently works as an electrical foreman, with knowledge of large commercial generators and green energy specialties. Bott is planning to write his Master Electrician exam by Christmas and then begin a carpentry apprenticeship. “His hard work and dedication shine on every job, and his desire to continue to learn sends a strong message to the entire team,” Bartlett explains.

Another NBCS team member eager to expand her expertise is licensed carpenter Samantha Perkins. She brings her carpentry skills to NBCS as she also embarks on her first stage of multi-skilling in her Construction Maintenance Electrician apprenticeship. Bartlett is pleased to welcome Perkins, saying “Samantha is a loving mother of two whose heart, strong work ethic and demand for safety on her jobsites makes her a welcome addition to the multi-skilled team at NBCS.” Carissa Ferguson thought she was applying for a part time data entry position and soon became the Business Development Coordinator/HR teammate. Of Ferguson, Bartlett says, “From hiring and scheduling training to updating our social media posts, Carissa is working day and night to grow our NBCS team.”

With its ever growing and multi-skilled team, the future is looking bright for New Beginnings Contracting Services – the little company with big talent, and even bigger heart.

New Beginnings Contracting Services info@nbcservices.org 705-344-4613 405 Cedar Glen Rd. Dunsford, ON. K0M 1L0

Home & Cottage ~ Christmas 2021 33

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Empire Cheese Cooperative - Making Curd Since 1870 Cheese curd has been enjoyed for centuries – in fact the ancient Romans enjoyed a dish called globuli, which is basically fried curds.

The recipe consisted of dredging the curds in semolina flour, frying them in olive oil, then rolling them in honey. 21st century Canadians are obsessed with poutine, and while there are many twists on this tasty dish, the original poutine calls for curd.

A time-honoured tradition, curd-making truly is an art and Mark Erwin, the main cheese maker at Empire Cheese since 2008, is happy to walk us through the process. He explains the key ingredient is fresh, locally sourced milk. The five-hour process begins with the milk being added to a large vat. A culture with good activity and flavour is selected and added to the milk and the mixture is cooked slowly to about 37.7 °C, after which the whey is drained off. Next, several mechanical turns give the cheese its body. It then goes through a milling machine to cut the cheese into those long stringy pieces we all enjoy. Salt is added as the curd is stirred, then the curd

Since 1994

is shoveled into a cart, ready for bagging.

In case you are wondering, Empire Cheese produces about 146,000 kgs – or 321,000 lbs – of curd annually!

Store manager Madison Simmons talks about the Saturday morning rush, when the curd is ready to be bagged and sold by 8:00 AM.

“There is nothing better than a bag of warm, salty, squeaky curd! We do make curd during the week, but Saturday is our early day and everyone knows it,”

she explains, adding “our curd comes in several flavours: plain (coloured and white), roasted garlic and red pepper, and plain garlic, and it is a healthy snack.”

If you can’t get to Campbellford, look for Empire Cheese products at your local shops and get ready to enjoy 151 years of tradition.

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Drag Boat Champion

Shawn Dunbar Picture this, you’re flying down the lake, wind whistling in your ears – the roar of the boat engine rumbling behind you – now add to that picture speeds of 150KM+ an hour!

Meet Shawn Dunbar, general manager of the Lakefield Battaglia Homes Jr. C Chiefs hockey team, Fleming College Multimedia Co-ordinator, speed enthusiast…and world champion!

Dunbar, an Ennismore native who now resides on beautiful Pigeon Lake, had the amazing opportunity to represent Canada and the Ontario Power Boat Racing Association in the Lake Racer division on October 2, 2021 at the Outboard Drag Racing Association World Championships in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Shawn is the first Canadian to podium at the event since 2004 and he says

“It is a good feeling to represent Canada.”

Dunbar wasn’t alone; there were 2 other Canadian teams competing, and a total of 75 boats across eight divisions. He is thrilled to be on the podium after three other attempts in past years, saying “My goal this year was to podium. You always want to win, but after finishing fourth twice, realistically my

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goal was to podium.”

His trip to the championships this year consisted of seven races total, leaving him with a coveted 3rd place finish. The course was tricky this year as drivers battled rainy weather - the races were shortened up to one day of competition to avoid nasty weather rolling in.

Dunbar’s boat is a true investment of both time and money with hours of practice and preparation devoted to fine tuning both his skill and the boat to work flawlessly as a team.

His race boat is a gnarly 300-horsepower STV River Rocket with a 19-foot tunnel hull, and when it is race ready it weighs in at around 1200 lbs.

The race is an 800 foot straight drag race – two lanes, left vs. right. As the drivers get ready to take off, the race begins with a rolling start, the drivers keep their high-powered boats at 7.5 miles per hour until they roll up to the starting barge and then it is GO time! A good race takes only 8.5 seconds and is pure

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adrenaline with speeds in the mid 90 miles per hour (that is 150+ kilometres per hour). This means a loss is gauged by a millisecond or two at most – this year Dunbar says he only lost by 12 feet. Now that’s a tight race!

Dunbar is thankful to be supported by the cottage country community with great neighbours, and a super supportive lake crowd who often come to their docks on Pigeon Lake to watch him practice – an event in itself. He is also grateful for his crew, he attributes much of his success to his team: mechanic Kevin Ward from Picton and Jamie and John Fuderer from Kawartha Propeller, as well as Ryan Matthews (owner of Cycle Salvage/ Cat Shack), who was able to step in and accompany Dunbar to the Championships as his on-hand mechanic.

Since 1994

We couldn’t be prouder to have Dunbar bring home the bronze to Canada, and we can’t wait to see what he has up his

sleeve for next year!

Congratulations Shawn Dunbar and team!

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Accelerated Technologies Long term residents of the Kawartha lakes, John and Jen Sharrard, owners of Accelerated Technologies, have a very unique business with equally unique customers from all over North America.

Situated in Buckhorn Ontario, this business focuses on vastly improving the suspension tuning and therefore handling and safety of their customer’s power sports vehicles. These vehicles include motorcycles, ATV’s, side by sides and snowmobiles, and all have suspension components that can be tuned or altered, or replaced, which, in turn can vastly improve the customers’ ride experience.

It is very common for an owner of a new vehicle to reach out to Accelerated Technologies after just purchasing it because they are disappointed or struggling with the ride or handling characteristics. The dealer where they purchased the vehicle may be experts at general service or maintenance but are often at a loss when the customer needs to understand advanced ride dynamics, handling and improved control of their new toy. That’s where Accelerated steps in, interviews the customer to discuss their desires or their concerns, and maps out a few strategies that give some options depending on the owner’s budget and expectations. Perhaps an adjustment of the OEM

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settings is all that is required, or, if the owner has purchased an entry level machine from their dealer, sometimes a more dramatic improvement involves replacing all the shocks on the vehicle with a higher quality package.

During the winter months, when recreationalists switch to enjoying snowmobiling, their shop is busy setting up the handling of hundreds of snowmobiles each winter. A few years ago, word got out that massive improvements could be made in the safety and handling of modern snowmobiles and now customers will trailer their machines from as far away as Wawa, Sarnia, Quebec, New York, Michigan and even Illinois for Accelerated Technologies to set up their snowmobile’s often misunderstood adjustments.

John and Jen explain that these machines seem to have a baseline calibration for about a 120 pound rider, when the average Canadian snowmobiler seems to be around 180 to 210 pounds. A heavier or taller person has no negative handling or

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MOTORCYCLES SNOWMOBILES ATV / SIDE-BY-SIDE

Advanced Suspension Tuning Specialists

comfort effects when they get into their 6000 pound car, but they sure can disrupt the handling of a 600 pound snowmobile or ATV. A heavier rider can use up most of the travel of the OEM suspension just getting on the seat, therefore having no suspension movement left for any sizeable bump, which results in a terribly uncomfortable ride that quickly gets unsafe when the speed elevates even moderately. Conversely, a light rider can get beat up and bounced around by a vehicle that barely moves under him or her when ridden at a moderate pace due to overly harsh or firm suspension settings on the vehicle.

will make your ride smoother and handle better and safer

So, whether your passionate powersport vehicle is a motorcycle, ATV, side by side or a snowmobile, the team at Accelerated Technologies can ensure the vehicle ‘fits’ you like it was an extension of your body, dramatically improving your comfort, safety, happiness and the overall enjoyment you experience every time you ride.

They can be reached at 705-657-9490, by email at acceltech@sympatico.ca, on Facebook at Accelerated Technologies Motorcycle Page, OR Accelerated Technologies Snowmobile and ATV Page as well as at Accelerated Technologies on Instagram. Their website is www.acceleratedtechnologies.ca

Specializing in advanced suspension solutions in the power sports industry. Our expansive knowledge of how vehicles handle and behave has mandated a very comprehensive knowledge of vehicle maintenance, dynamics, and operation.

Whether you ride a motorcycle, ATV, side by side or snowmobile, Accelerated Technologies will help you get the absolute best out of it.

We set up bikes, sleds or off road vehicles for the road, track, or trail

3621 County Rd 36, Buckhorn 705-657-9490 www.acceleratedtechnologies.ca Since 1994

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Discover OFSC

Snowmobile Trails This Winter

Story & Photos by Craig Nicholson, The Intrepid Snowmobiler

Did you love playing in the snow as a youngster? Most of us did, but something strange can happen as adults. Snow can become enough of an inconvenience to cause winter cottage closing, seasonal hibernation, or southern escapes.

Luckily, that doesn’t happen to all of us. Thanks to being in the Kawarthas or Haliburton, we’re still snow aficionados, or have become so again. So, we spend each winter exploring our extensive snowmobile trails with family and friends.

From the Kawartha Lakes to Haliburton and Bancroft, member clubs of the non-profit Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) operate this seamless, interconnected network of winter trails. These groomed corridors criss-cross our region’s hinterlands – planned and organized to link our communities and provide access to fuel, food and lodgings services. Yet they are only a small part of the over 30,000 kilometres the OFSC offers across the province. It’s one of the world’s largest recreational trail systems, with more kilometres than our provincial highways.

Today’s OFSC trails are a far cry from the trapper’s trails and goat paths old timers remember. They are re-surfaced regularly by heavy industrial grooming equipment, similar to what’s used on ski hills. For easy wayfinding, they’re marked with traffic, destination and services signs, reflective field stakes and intersection map boards.

These snowmobile trails are also mapped on the OFSC Interactive Trail Guide (ITG,) found on their website, and on a free Go

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Snowmobiling App for your mobile device that can be upgraded to a Go Snowmobiling PRO version. With these tools you can see, zoom in on, and download the routing, trails, towns and connections to plan your ride. What’s more, most OFSC districts (we are in Districts 2 & 6) offer printed trail guides available through local snowmobile clubs.

This amazing winter asset doesn’t just happen by chance.

Generous landowners contribute by allowing an OFSC trail on a designated section of their property. Hundreds of local volunteers donate their time, effort and skills to prepare and operate the trails in our region every winter.

It’s a partnership that results not only in great trails for our recreational riding, but also provides winter business opportunities and employment for our friends and neighbours.

As required by Ontario law, snowmobilers can access any available OFSC trail with an affordable Seasonal, Classic or MultiDay Snowmobile Trail Permit, also through the OFSC website.

So what are you waiting for? Just like that kid in the snow, come play on OFSC trails in your own backyard this winter!

Learn More About Trail Riding At: Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs – www.ofsc.on.ca Intrepid Snowmobiler – www.intrepidsnowmobiler.com

Since 1994

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Lighthouse: Helping You Make New Traditions Where you gather becomes the heart of your family – it is the place where you cook the Christmas turkey, decorate the tree and hang the stockings with care. It is the warm, cozy Christmas morning, filled with smells of brewing coffee, and the squeals of happiness and delight from your growing family. Perhaps it is the place where you wrap each gift with care, readying it for its trip to far away family.

The memories you form in your family home or cottage are precious; the team at Lighthouse Real Estate know this – because together they are a family.

Every household has its own approach to Christmas and the new year and all the festivities that go along with it. As families grow, traditions change and evolve, and new memories are made. Perhaps you have a tradition of spending Christmas at the cottage, watching the snow fall on your own paradise. No matter the tradition, one thing remains– the holidays are a time of family gatherings, laughter and cheer – and good food shared together!

The Lighthouse family of realtors believes that the perfect house isn’t just someplace that fits your belongings, it’s a home where you will make lasting traditions, a space where you can live life day-today, and fill with family and friends on those special occasions.

Honoured traditions make a space feel full and lived-in, but if you feel you’ve outgrown your current house, or you are looking for that perfect waterfront cottage, Lighthouse Real Estate wants to walk with you on the journey to making new memories. Striving to maintain the highest standard of customer care, the team at Lighthouse will work hard to find the best property for you, your family and your budget.

Trust the team at Lighthouse Real Estate to get you into your new dream property, all fresh and ready for new traditions – and some old ones, too!

Lighthouse Real Estate Ltd. Brokerage 17 May St., Fenelon Falls ON K0M 1N0 705 887 5252 www.lighthouse-realestate.ca

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ALDERVILLE’S

War Memorial In the years following World War One, communities across Canada looked for ways to memorialize their war dead and to honour

those who served. Alderville First Nation was no different: from that small Northumberland County community, 35 men volunteered to fight and nine were killed in action. The result is the striking, very symbolic monument that one cannot miss when driving along County Road 45, at Line 2. It is Canada’s first Indigenous war memorial, and was completely community-driven.

The monument stands about fifty feet high and was constructed from 468 tons of handmixed concrete. It is on land donated by Alderville resident William Loukes Sr. Alf McKeel, a Campbellford builder, designed it, then supplied technical advice and materials for the construction. All the labour was provided by men from Alderville. Remarkably, the monument was built in a month: sod was

Since 1994

turned on 21 August 1927 and the finished structure was unveiled on 25 September.

The monument contains several symbolic features: the square base represents the four fundamental freedoms (speech, religion, the press, and from fear); three joined columns stand for Faith, Hope, and Charity; the three globes on top of the columns signify the Christian Holy Trinity; the cube at the very top symbolizes the Earth’s four directions. In a circle around the structure are nine large in-ground concrete blocks honouring each of Alderville’s nine soldiers killed in World War One; these blocks are connected by a 35-link chain symbolizing eternity, but also representing each of the community’s volunteers for that conflict. A bronze plaque lists the names of those who died and those who served in the 1914-18 war; a later plaque names Alderville’s war dead and volunteers in the 1939-45 World War, and its two veterans from the Viet Nam War. The beautiful Alderville War Monument is ultimately a tribute not just to those warriors who served and died, but to the whole small Ontario First Nation community that took the initiative and built a lasting monument to them.

Don Willcock For more information about Alderville First Nation and its War Monument, including a full list of those commemorated, go to: alderville.ca

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Artist Profile

“At 25 I thought I knew everything. At 60 I realize there is still much to learn.”

So says award-winning Little Britain-based author Pauline Kiely who, in 2018, published “No Poverty Between the Sheets” – a feisty, raucous and raw tale of life in a large Irish - French Canadian family.

Originally intended to be “Granny’s Antics”, Kiely soon discovered that the narrative within her was more than just a collection of stories; rather, it was the beginning of a multi-generational journey of lessons learned, told with the unabashed humour borne of both her Irish and French-Canadian heritage.

and not for the faint of heart. “I write of things I’m not always proud of, but they are things which need to be laid bare.”

An avid horsewoman, Kiely draws parallels between herself and the animals she loves. Noting that a horse is a flight animal which will run from trauma and danger she says, “I did the same thing – after acknowledging trauma I would ignore it, walk away from it, lock it away.”

She learned about facing that which she kept hidden by working Kiely always knew her story, and that of her family, needed to be with horses who had their own traumas to overcome. “The Creator told as a trilogy, and “Ricochet Rodeo” was subsequently released in has given me the gift of horses, and they in turn have given me February 2021. Work on the final chapter in the trilogy, “Heart of the lessons from which I have learned so much.”

Horse”, is now underway.

Kiely’s philosophy speaks to the journey that is life; “I feel in telling my Of her memoirs, Kiely says “For certain generations, these are difficult truth I can encourage others to see theirs. We’re all just people struggling reads. They open up the sores so people realize they aren’t alone.” Her to survive and be the best version of ourselves. That’s all I am.” biggest fan base is the more senior population. “These people get it.

They’ve lived a life. If theirs wasn’t a struggle, they knew someone “No Poverty Between the Sheets”, the Silver Award winner for Canada whose was. And they understand the humour because that’s what East division in the 2019 Independent Publisher Book Awards, and helps us survive,” she explains, adding “I’m not writing off the young “Ricochet Rodeo” are available in Lindsay at Coles, Kent Bookstore audience. They just need to be willing to accept what life is about, be and Kawartha Lakes Library; in Peterborough at Chapters; and through her website, www.paulinekiely.com. open to learning from its hard truths, and know when to laugh.”

Remarking on “Ricochet Rodeo” she says the book is brutally honest, By Belinda Wilson Since 1994

Home & Cottage ~ Christmas 2021 45

Kids!!

Don’t Forget to Write to Santa before December 10th & Get a Letter Back!

There's room for everyone on the Nice List at Santa’s Office this Christmas!

Santa has Postal Elves who are ready to help Santa answer letters each year.

There are 3 important rules to remember when sending a letter to Santa: Make sure to include your full return address. Santa may know where you live, but his postal elves need this information to deliver your letter!

 Santa really loves to read about children’s favourite sports, jokes, school activities or family fun (even if Mom and Dad help with the writing). And, of course, he loves to get pictures and drawings from even his youngest pen pals!

 Send your letter soon. December 10 is the last day to mail letters to Santa (it’s a long way to the North Pole and back!). Letters mailed after December 10 may not receive a reply before Christmas, so remind the kids to get on it!

Santa's address:

SANTA CLAUS NORTH POLE H0H 0H0 CANADA Courtesy of the Elves at Canada Post

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Weekend at the Cottage

Recipes

GINGERSNAP COOKIES Sugar-rolled crackled ginger cookies with a heady fragrant profile of ginger and orange zest.

Ingredients FOR THE DOUGH: • 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour • 1 tablespoon ground ginger • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • ½ teaspoon ground cloves • 2 teaspoons baking soda • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt Instructions • sprinkle of black pepper • ½ cup butter (8 tablespoons), 1. Preheat oven to 350°, rack in the middle position. room temperature 2. Place flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, kosher salt and a sprinkle of black pepper into a bowl. Stir together • ¼ cup shortening

and set aside.

• ¾ cup dark brown sugar 3. Place butter, shortening and brown sugar into a medium-sized bowl and combine using a hand mixer running on low.

• ¼ cup molasses

Add molasses, egg and orange zest and blend to incorporate. Add dry ingredients and mix until combined. Gather • 1 egg, room temperature

the dough together by hand.

• orange zest 4. Roll dough into a 1-inch ball. Dip the ball into the sanding sugar, pushing it down firmly to coat one half of the cookie.

Lift, invert and dip the other half of the cookie into the granulated sugar. Transfer cookies to a parchment-lined baking FOR THE ROLL:

sheet with the sanding sugar pointed upwards. Leave about 2 inches of space in between them.

• ½ cup sanding sugar 5. Transfer cookies to the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to • ½ cup granulated sugar

cool completely.

SAUSAGE DRESSING RECIPE A must make side for special occasions.

Ingredients • 1½ lb pork sausage, removed from casing • 1 loaf sourdough rye bread, cut into ½-inch cubes • 4 tablespoons butter • ½ sweet white onion, finely diced • 3 celery ribs, finely diced • 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced • ½ cup dried apricots, chopped • ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped • ¼ cup each fresh parsley, sage and thyme, finely chopped • 3 apples, cored and chopped • 1 cup poultry stock • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Toast cubed bread on parchment-lined baking sheet until lightly browned and crispy. Set aside.

2. Sauté the onions in 3 tablespoons of butter until translucent. Add celery and mushrooms and cook until soft. Crumble the sausage meat into the skillet and cook

until pinkness has disappeared.

3. Place the toasted bread into a large mixing bowl. Add the contents from the skillet followed by the apricots, cranberries, pecans, herbs and apples.

Stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning using salt and pepper.

4. Transfer to buttered casserole dish (with 1 tablespoon of butter), spreading into an even layer, then slowly pour the poultry stock over top. Transfer to oven and

bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes or until top is lightly browned and toasted. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before sprinkling with a bit of chopped parsley and serving.

Watch the video on the Weekend at the Cottage YouTube Channel.

Since 1994

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3 Pinecone Crafts In late November, before the first snow flies, the kids and I spend days exploring the forest near our home. We each gather bits of nature to bring indoors for the long, cold winter months. With pieces of birch bark, clusters of juniper berries, and spruce or pinecones folded into arms, we head indoors for some crafting. Sometimes we use them to decorate our tree or a wreath, and sometimes they make for math counters or craft supplies. Here are a few of our favourite seasonal pinecone projects:

NORTH POLE WORD FIND

PINECONE GNOMES A pine cone, one single bead, some white paint, glue, and a piece of felt is all you’ll need to create a little gnome friend. Paint your pinecone white. Snip a triangle of felt and roll it into a cone shaped hat. Glue along the long edge of the fabric and adhere it to the base of the pinecone. This becomes the top of your gnome, with his little hat drooping over his eyes. Glue a bead for his nose, so his hat appears to be resting on it. Feel free to attach a piece of twine and hang as a decoration on your tree, attach to the top of a beautifully wrapped gift, or follow along with the next craft idea to make a garland string of gnomes.

GARLAND You’ll need any kind of string or ribbon and a stack of, you guessed it, pinecones!

Cut your string twice as long as you’d like your garland to be.

Tie the string around the pinecones, and hang on a wall or around your tree to bring a little of the outdoors in this holiday season.

PINECONE TREES Green paint, a small paper star, and a cork can easily be transformed into a mini tree. Lightly brush the paint onto the pinecone. I like to leave a bit of the pinecone exposed for texture. Glue the cork to the base or the widest part of your cone, and add the star to the top. Repeat, repeat, repeat, to add a small forest to any Christmas village display.

REINDEER SANTA SNOW ELVES COOKIES

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SLEIGH MISTLETOE TOYS TREES WORKSHOP

PRESENTS CANDY SNOWMAN LIGHTS CAROLS

COAL HOLLY POINSETTIA DECORATIONS RUDOLPH

Jacquelyn Toupin lives with her family in a heritage farm house that’s been in her family for several generations. You can follow them on YouTube @oldfarmnewfarm or on Instagram @raisinghay

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Enjoying the Gifts of Winter, Naturally.

It is a cold December day. A delicate layer of frost edges the corner of each window and mounds of snow smooth over bushes and trees. Birds are huddled under eaves, fluffing their feathers, reminding you that winter is well and truly here. Meanwhile, the kids are hunched behind computer screens, or tapping their feet to the tunes emanating from their hand-held device. And you are thinking, I’ve just got to figure out some way to get the kids outside!

Try these simple winter activities to help connect your kids with the magic of the winter season.

It may be a bit counterintuitive but you can make a warm glow out of a chunk of ice. How? By making ice lanterns: You’ll need round balloons (any size), colored dye (optional), a large bowl, water and tea light candles. If you want to use dye, add a few drops inside the balloon. Attach the balloon to a water faucet and fill to desired size. Tie off the balloon. Put the balloon in a bowl (to keep its round shape) and place it either outside or in a freezer for six hours or until the outside of the balloon is frozen but there is still water inside. Carefully cut and peel away the balloon. Working over a sink or outside, drain the water away by making a hole in the weakest part of the base using a kitchen knife. The hole will have to be large enough to slip over the tea candle. Refreeze the globe until completely solid. Place your candle outdoors and cover with the ice lantern! A series of ice candles on a cold winter’s night warms your heart!

Use touches of nature to decorate a nearby tree. How? By making frozen mandalas: Take sprigs of your favourite winter plants (e.g., dogwood, holly, conifer needles). Use a flat and shallow container (e.g., empty tuna Since 1994

can, Tupperware, etc.). Fill with fresh water. Place your plant inside.

Place a twig in the upper middle and allow this to freeze overnight.

The next day, gently ease your decoration from the container.

Remove the twig. Place a ribbon or twine in the hole and create a loop. This will create a handy hanger. Hang on a tree outside.

Watch as the winter side light filters through the beautiful textures of ice and plant material. These sparkling decorations allow us to appreciate nature in a new and fresh way and help us to realize what beauty there is a few steps outside of our door.

Other Christmastime ideas: Head to a local Christmas tree farm and cut down your own tree.

A real tree is the most environmentally-friendly choice – far better than a plastic tree. Go for a nature walk the same day and collect natural ornaments with which to decorate the tree. A few ideas include cones, colorful twigs, birch bark, berries, shells, etc. When Christmas is over, use your tree as a backyard shelter for the birds, possibly placing it near your feeder.

Decorate an outside tree (preferably near a window) for the animals and birds. Conifers work well. String pieces of apple, dried fruit, peanuts in the shell and popcorn over the boughs. You can also hang pieces of suet from the tree and pine cones covered in peanut butter and rolled in bird seed. Watch in amazement as wildlife comes to visit your creation. If there is snow, check out the crisscross of tracks appearing in and around your tree. Wildlife should enjoy Christmas as well!

Submitted by Jacob Rodenburg, Executive Director of Camp Kawartha, an award-winning outdoor education centre and summer camp.

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Local Humane Societies Lakefield Animal Welfare Society 2887 Lakefield Rd. • 705-652-0588 www.lakefieldanimalwelfare.org

Humane Society Of Kawartha Lakes 111 McLaughlin Rd., Lindsay • 705-878-4618 • www.hskl.ca

Animal Rescue Krew (ARK)

Mac & Hollister Meet our alpaca, Mac and Hollister - two of our newest residents at Riverview Park and Zoo! Alpaca are native to South America, found in high mountain plateaus. They are related to camels but have no hump.

3307 Lakefield Rd., Lakefield • 705-651-0069

Peterborough Humane Society 385 Lansdowne St. E., Peterborough • 705-745-7676 www.peterboroughhumanesociety.ca

Home Again Bancroft 613-474-3450 • www.homeagainbancroft.ca

Alpaca have long slender legs, small heads, long thick necks and a prehensile split upper lip. Their large eyes are expressive and make these animals appear curious and inquisitive. The alpaca is about one-and-a-half metres tall, with a tail measuring 20 – 25 cm, and weighs between 40 and 60 kg. Alpaca have straight ears, differentiating them from the banana-shapedeared llama. Alpaca are raised so that their fleece can be shorn year after year. Their fur has over 20 natural colors from a pale almost white to the darkest black.

Alpaca are herbivores, grazing on a selection of perennial grasses, trees and shrubs. Here at the zoo the Alpaca get a diverse diet of grass, hay, leafy greens, tree browse and veggies. You can adopt Mac or Hollister or any of our other animals here at Riverview Park and Zoo through our Animal Adoption program. It makes a great local gift for a loved one this holiday season and comes complete with a photo, certificate, and fact sheet about your adoptive animal.

Visit our website: riverviewparkandzoo.ca

Home Made

Dog Biscuits • 1 Beef or Chicken Bouillion Cube • 1/2 Cup Boiling Water • 2 1/2 Cups Flour • 1 Teaspoon of Salt • 1 Egg Mix the Bouillion Cube in boiling water in a mixing bowl until dissolved.

Add 1 beaten egg and then add the remaining ingredients.

Mix until blended - Do not over-mix.

Add the dough to a floured cutting board and roll out dough. Cut with dog bone shaped cookie cutter.

Place a rack on a cookie sheet and place biscuits on the rack.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

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Holiday Guide for Dog Owners Keeping them safe and healthy this holiday season The holidays are a time of celebration and joy, but they can also be stressful for dog owners. With guests coming into your home, strange new smells in the air, and more activity than usual it's important to make sure that your dog is prepared for all of this change.

Let’s go over some tips on how to prepare your dog for the holiday season so you can have a happy dog during one of the happiest times of year!

HOLIDAY GIFTS I always recommend dog-proofing your gifts before giving them to your dog! Dogs can't tell the difference between an expensive toy and a $15.99 squeak toy from the pet store so it's important that we teach them. Instead of getting excited and taking the toys away, give your dog something he can have and get really excited about the new toy instead.

CRATE TRAINING Often thought of as a house training tool, the crate is also meant to be a safe space for your dog to get away and have time on his own.

The crate is also helpful when you're not able to supervise and will prevent him from getting into things like the garbage, or the gift Santa left for him!

SEPARATION ANXIETY If your dog gets anxious or scared when being left alone, consider having them be taken care of by a friend or family member. There are also many boarding and day care facilities which can help ease your mind when you need to be away from your furry friend for an extended period of time. Pet sitters, dog walkers and even neighbourhood teens or tweens are also possibilities.

ROUTINE Keeping to your routine as much as possible will help your dog cope with the many changes that the holidays bring. Keeping to their regular walk routine will also help mitigate unwanted behaviour caused by excess energy and boredom. You may also want to include some other exercises that your dog loves, but may not always have time for such as fetch, trail walks and runs, as well as special food toys and games.

NEW GUESTS IN HOME Don't forget, this is your dog's home too! Having new people coming and going can increase his stress and cause him to act out in ways he wouldn't normally. If your dog is likely to jump on guests, keep him in his crate until he and everyone is settled down and then bring your dog out to greet everyone. It's also important to recognize when your dog isn't interested in being social and respecting that. Asking your guests to give your dog his space is just good dog parenting.

Since 1994

EAT THIS, NOT THAT Cooked turkey bones can splinter and can cause obstructions or worse in your dog so avoid giving them to your pooch. Instead, cook the gizzards separately and give your dog their own holiday feast. Here are some other foods to avoid and healthy alternatives: Chocolate - give them a Kong stuffed with natural peanut or another nut butter.

Cooked Bones - give them raw bones, such as turkey or chicken necks, flat rib bones, or beef neck bones.

Sugar Free Candy - give them chicken or duck feet (raw or freeze dried).

Uncooked Bread Dough – give them cooked buns soaked with broth, or a small amount of gravy.

Turner and Pooch Dog Training www.ptbodogtrainer.ca 705 808 DOGS

Pets & Vets ~ Christmas 2021 51

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New home.

Same team.

Same philosophy.

The Pyle Group has enjoyed being part of Cottage Country for many years, and we’re happy to be back as we emerge from a longer than desired COVID-19 hiatus. We’re even happier to announce that we have returned under a new banner, as part of CIBC Wood Gundy.

While our office location in Peterborough is different, and we have some new faces on the team, our commitment in this transition is to provide the highest standards of wealth management and financial planning our clients have come to expect from us.

The financial services industry has gone through significant change over the years, all aimed at protecting the interests of clients. Since we started working with individuals, families and businesses in 2007, the Pyle Group has endeavoured to stay ahead of these changes through education and a due diligence approach to all aspects of investment and planning advice.

The cornerstone to our philosophy remains constant, and that is to continue to build our business, serving clients across the country, but not at the expense of the client experience. As we have grown, we have also expanded the team and an important part of that has been to build a succession plan that will see Since 1994

our clients served for years to come. I know how important planning is when it comes to my future retirement, as I want to leave my clients in experienced hands. We encourage our business owner clients to build a succession plan; why wouldn’t I do the same for my wealth management practice? While my own retirement is far down the road, when that day comes, Ally Pyle will be able to lead the team and continue to develop and build the bench strength necessary to help our clients into the future.

As we prepare to turn the page on 2021, we stand ready to partner with our clients to navigate the uncertain waters ahead.

If I can use a boating analogy, the Pyle Group will continue to act as a wealth management GPS for all our clients – young and old.

Andrew Pyle is an Investment Advisor within CIBC Wood Gundy in Peterborough. The views of Andrew Pyle do not necessarily reflect those of CIBC Word Markets Inc.

Home & Cottage ~ Christmas 2021 53

HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE

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CHAMBER NEWS

Explore Fenelon Falls

Chamber Awards Nominees 2021

10 Ways to Choose Local this Holiday Season

FENELON FALLS CHAMBER OF COMMERANCE

LINDSAY CHAMBER OF COMMERANCE

KAWARTHA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & TOURISM

As we head into winter it’s the perfect time to get away for the weekend and discover something new in Fenelon Falls. As you stroll down Colborne Street you’ll see the finishing touches of the downtown reconstruction are almost complete and a longtime favourite, The Cow & Sow Eatery, has had a makeover inside and out! You’ll also find some of your favourite shops and the art gallery have moved to new downtown locations.

We are pleased to announce our nominees for the 2021 Lindsay + District Chamber of Commerce Awards of Excellence.

The holidays are a magical time. It is a time for family, friends, good food and lots of shopping! This year we are encouraging everyone to #ChooseLocal and keep their spending within the community!

The annual Christmas Shopping Passport promotion launches on November 12th so there’s lots of time to find just the right gift for everyone on your list. Enter to win by making a purchase at a participating shop or restaurant to fill your passport.

Share your love of Fenelon Falls by giving the Fenelon Falls photobook, branded clothing or jewellery, locally made items and of course there’s our hometown craft beer.

For those who enjoy the outdoors the Victoria Rail Trail is open year-round for walking, snowmobiling, or snowshoeing (weather dependent of course). Learn about the history of Fenelon Falls with the audio walking tour or challenge your friends to see who can complete the Driftscape (app) scavenger hunt first or visit the rain garden across from the Fenelon Museum and capture a photo of the new art installations.

Visit www.explorefenelonfalls.com to plan your trip.

Since 1994

The complete list can be found at https:// lindsaychamber.com/AWARDS- OFEXCELLENCE. The Rapid Antigen Screening Test Program is still ongoing until March 2022. We will be facilitating this for all businesses in Kawartha Lakes.

We have been working with the other chambers in Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton on a shop local campaign that will run all over Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton Highlands.

Did you know that membership with the LDCC comes with the opportunity to make Chamber Plan Benefits available for you and your employees?

This may be something to consider with the labour shortage that is going on. It is a nice perk to offer to your employees.

There are many other benefits to membership with your local chamber, affinity partnerships with other local businesses, networking opportunities, advertising opportunities, and much more.

Please reach out to us at info@lindsaychamber.com or call 705-324-2393 with any inquiries.

1. Make memories this holiday and book a family staycation at a local accommodation provider.

2. Give the cook in the family a break - make reservations or order takeout for holiday dinners.

3. Someone on your list who really doesn't need anything? Make a donation in their name to their favourite local cause.

4. Treat yourself or someone on your gift list to a pampering at a local salon!

5. Get a head start on New Years' resolutions with a membership at a local gym or health centre!

6. Give some of your time by volunteering for a local charity or not-for-profit.

7. Buy experiences! Giving the gift of fun and memories at local attractions can be the most precious present of all!

8. Skip the presents and invest in your home! Spend that money hiring local contractors to fix those fixer-uppers in your house!

9. Try new places! Ask friends, family and the Chamber for suggestions for local retailers!

10. Need to shop online? You can still choose local online with lots of options available.

Our website directory at kawarthachamber.ca has hundreds of local choices!

In The News ~ Christmas 2021 55

Holiday Memories Reflecting on the Year Past & Preparing for the One to Come

It is fitting that the holiday season comes at the end of the year. Year's end is the time when people look back on the year just past and get ready for the year to come. It is no accident that New Year's resolutions are so popular - the holiday season is the perfect time to take stock of your life, assess where you have been and think about where you are going.

This year, why not take a break from the egg nog and Christmas carols and do a bit of self-reflection? You do not have to do a deep psychological analysis - just reflecting on the year you have just lived through is enough to get you started. Think about your biggest accomplishments during the year, but spend a few minutes thinking about your biggest regrets as well. Knowing where you are coming from will make it easier to make those New Year's resolutions and move on to bigger and better things in the year to come.

You can also spend the post-holiday season reflecting on yourself and your family. You no doubt loved the presents you received and enjoyed the shopping you did, but did you spend enough time with your family members?

Often the best gift we can give is the gift of ourselves. Those presents cannot be bought in any store, but they are truly priceless.

The holiday season is the perfect time for selfreflection and self-analysis. This year, why not take some time to think about where you have been in the year just past, where you hope to go in the year just starting and how you plan to make the journey?

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HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE

Since 1994

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Since 1994

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