Cottage Country Christmas 2024

CONTENTS

Welcome to the Holiday Issue

’Tis the season - to reflect. When the last months of the year roll in, I like to make sure I take the time to reflect on the year I’ve lived. Reflecting on my experiences and memories of the year gone by gives me a chance to decide on a few things; what I want to keep (both physically and emotionally) and what I can do away with.

“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance”

-

Eckhart Tolle

Many start thinking about resolutions for the new year, and I suppose it’s kind of the same thing, but instead of choosing just one thing to work toward and focus on, I try to be intentional with my thoughts of what I want to strive for and accomplish in the coming months in different aspects of my life. Much of the time, I think about things like: being more generous, kind and authentic, setting achievable goals for my dreams and ambitions - which sometimes include career goals - but mostly I like to think about my role as a good human, and how I can share with the world something of value. When we think positively about what we have already accomplished this year, and build on that foundation for another spin around the sun - I think we can achieve great things; and we do that here at the magazine as well.

We’ve had a great year filled with so many wonderful connectionswe’ve brought so many stories to our readers, and have promoted so many Cottage Country friends as a champion of small business and

tourism in our region - and we can’t wait to keep going for 2025. So, with this our last issue of 2024 - we want to say a BIG HUGE Thank you, to you! Thank you for every like on social media, every read of the magazine, every issue picked up and shared with a friend; our readers are the best.

Welcome to the 2024 Christmas Issue, in this winter issue we focus on all things Holiday. Christmas decorating and gifting is at the top of the list - and as always, we encourage you to spend those hard earned dollars locally. Check out our Spotlight on Local, plus lots of gift giving ideas from shops like The Old Tine Shed, The UK Shoppe and Bigley’s.

Mark’s is on the cover and is a staple here in Cottage Country for the coziest on-trend winter clothing and outdoors wear. I think more than a few of us have teens dreaming of new Carhartt sweaters under the tree this year, and Mark’s has you covered.

Weekend at the Cottage brings you recipes to keep your sweet tooth happy over Christmas, and Jacob Rodenburg teaches us how to build a traditional quinzhee. We have info on Native Bird species from Bird Friendly Peterborough, and the top ten gift ideas for the Angler in your life.

“Christmas is forever, not for just one day. For loving, sharing and giving are not to put away.”

- Norman Wesley Brooks

THOSE WERE THE DAYS

Russ Sanders Leaves a Legacy

I attended Sandwich Collegiate high school, our main rival was Patterson Collegiate. We had an ongoing debate which school had the better team spirit, proving our school was the best, I wrote an article outlining why our school gave the most support to our Spartan teams. To my surprise the Windsor Daily Star printed my comments. Wow, I was a twelve year old kid in awe looking at my own words printed, published in the daily newspaper.

Over the years I wrote song lyrics, radio and television commercials, published short stories and poems and in 1984 was hired to write for the Lakefield Herald. Continuing through the years I wrote for Todays Seniors/Forever Young magazine, the Connection, Windsor Star, Cottage Country Lifestyle magazine, have a published book that was adopted into the War Amps of Canada Library, Ottawa. I was invited five different years as guest speaker to the prestigious Learning In Leisure Club, plus dozens of times for various senior groups. I own Let Me Write It, a small but successful business specializing in mini biographies for senior women, men and couples. My poem Remembrance Day has been read, published dozens of times and I have been honoured

three times to read my poem in person on November eleventh at local cenotaphs.

I could go on tooting my own horn but what I am pointing out is, from September 1984 to September 2024, I have been writing continuously for forty years, forty wonderful, enjoyable years.

Now here is the tough part. This is my last column, yes, I am retiring from what I want to call a successful career loving every minute, every column, every good comment and even a few bad ones. I have written over a dozen mini bios, maybe one or two more, I am not sure yet.

I remember vividly in grade four Miss Haberlin giving us assignments such as how we spent our vacation or Christmas holidays. She would always ask me to read what I had written even though I pleaded that I was not finished and at the end of the class ask me to read aloud how I ended my story. I used to get aggravated being centered out like that but as I got older I realized she saw something in me I had not yet seen in myself.

For the past forty years I have had short stories and poems

published in the Examiner, Peterborough This Week, Walkerville Times and countless publications too numerous to list but still fresh and appreciative in my memories, columns I have truly poured my heart and soul into.

I have been asked to put together another book but no, I am ninety years old, my health is not the greatest and although I remember the Great Depression, World War II and so many subjects worthy of a column, I believe after forty years, it is time.

I want to thank first of all, the

many readers who wrote emails and letters to me, those who stopped me on the street almost weekly telling me they have been reading my columns for years. Thank you to the editors and publishers who allowed me the privilege to write. Thank you to all who had enough faith in me and my work allowing me to grace the pages of their publications.

Finally, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year and a warm, sincere, heartfelt hug to one and all, I will miss you.

Russ Sanders epigram@nexicom.net

Russ Sanders has been with this publication since its beginnings as the Causeway Connection in 1994 - what a run! Russ has been one of the most wonderful people to work with over the years, and despite mostly connecting via email, I have had the pleasure of not only getting to know Russ, but to befriend him - and what a bright light he brings with him.

Our penpal style emails have been the highlight of my workday for the past 10 years.

We cant thank Russ enough for his years of dedication and wisdom, and this comes with a thanks to his loyal readers as well; he definitely leaves a legacy here at Cottage Country Lifestyle Magazine.

Thank you Russ, for sharing with us your accomplishments, musings, memories and lessons over the years. We wish you all the best in your new adventure of retirement at 90!

Mark's Keeps You Cozy This Season

Building upon 47 years as Canada’s leader in workwear, Mark’s brings authenticity to casualwear, footwear and workwear for men and ladies. The friendly and customer-focused team at Mark’s Peterborough is ready to help you get outfitted 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. ICEFX Winter boots offer leading-edge technology for enhanced traction on ice – a safer way to walk on ice in both casual and safety styles – and help keep you on your feet when the ground gets slick. Throw in some Below Zero and Dakota wool socks to keep your feet toasty all day.

Mark’s offers a wide selection of outerwear from WindRiver, Denver Hayes and Columbia. That will be your go-to jacket when working and playing in the snow. Our men’s and ladies’ WindRiver puffer jackets and vests are perfect 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. As Canada’s leading workwear destination, Mark’s boasts a wide selection of durable outerwear from Dakota, Carhartt, and Helly Hansen to keep you warm and dry when you’re on the clock and hard at work.

Looking for the perfect gift? WindRiver flannels – in both men’s and ladies’ styles – offer that lived-in feel for a perfect blend of style, comfort and function. Carhartt toques and Saxx underwear make great stockingstuffers, 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 WindRiver heavycotton fleece sweatshirts and camp pants that keep you comfortable when the mercury drops! Mark’s is also excited to offer a wide selection of kids’ snowboots, jackets, and clothing from Columbia, Carhartt, and WindRiver to keep your family warm this winter!

Searching for an updated traditional winter look? Grab a pair of mittens, a 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 and a logo shirt 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 in Peterborough or Lindsay today and let our dedicated team help you gear up for winter in Canada!

Mark's Peterborough 1230 Lansdowne St W Peterborough, ON K9J 2A1 705-748-9570

Mark's Lindsay, 363 Kent St W Lindsay, ON K9V 2Z7 705-878-8908

Spotlight on SHOPPING LOCAL

We live in an age of convenience, online shopping is easy, fast and more affordable than ever; but is it actually better? Local one-of-a kind businesses are what make our region so amazing, vibrant and interesting. Shopping local has always been important, but with todays online giants, shopping local is taking a hit.

Almost three-quarters of Canadian companies have less than ten employees and small and micro businesses employ nearly 8 million people, accounting for approximately 70% of the private sector workforce in Canada. That’s a lot of jobs created - plus when you choose to shop local you are on the receiving end of services personalized for the communities we live in. Small businesses are full of unique products, owners offer immense knowledge on the merchandise they stock - they work extra hard to be good at what they do. Think about how great it feels when your local barista remembers your order - being a regular at a small business does have its perks.

Supporting your neighbours and community members allows them to provide for their families and fosters a lasting collective connection. Those local dollars are recycled back into your community in the form of kids sports sponsorships, community infrastructure and charities that directly support residents. Your spending at a small business means about .66 cents of each dollar

stays local - whereas when you buy from a multinational retailer or ‘Big Box Store’ only .11 cents stays in the community. Small local businesses face massive challenges when competing with multinational retailers who are able to slash prices and provide products to you ‘cheeper’ - unfortunately we are seeing trends where consumers are undervaluing the significant economic benefits of shopping locally.

We also have to keep in mind the toll COVID took on small business; while big chains boomed with online orders, small businesses were closing their doors. Online giants delivered door to door while many small businesses struggled with the time and know-how to create an immediate online presence that

would compete with bigger companies.

There are approximately 1.3 million businesses right now here in Canada and 99.8% (1.29 million) of them are small businesses. Employment statistics published findings that in 2024 small and micro businesses also made up over half of the employers in Canada. Which means your locally spent dollars have an immediate affect on those living and working in your cities and towns.

So - even if it’s a small shift this season, moving some of your budget over to spend specifically at a local small business will make a big impact for the residents and business owners in your community. As they say -

‘Every time you buy from a small business an actual person does a little happy dance.’

So this gift giving season remember, giving a gift from a small business is giving a gift twice.

Sources: Clearly Payments, CFIB, Innovation Science and Economic Development Canada, Statistics Canada, Made In CA

10 Gift Ideas for the FISHERMAN on your Christmas List

Are you looking for the perfect gift for the angler on your list but are coming up stumped. I have comprised a list of 10 gift ideas that will help you find the perfect gift in your price range.

#1. Baits ($10-$100)

A new bait for tackle collection is always welcome.  Talk with a local tackle expert to find the latest hot bait.  My favourites are @ prowwaterbaits.com soft plastics.

#2. Line ($10-40)

A spool of line is always needed depending on species or type of fishing technique there are various types i.e. monofilament, braid and fluorocarbon and weights from 2lb test to 50lb test.  A common line used in most applications is 20-30lb braided line such as Daiwa J braid.

#3. Tackle Storage ($20-$300)

Tackle storage is essential to keep your fisherman organized and can range from a simple tackle box to tackle bags that allow you to mix and match tackle bins depending on what type of fishing you are doing.

#4. Clothing ($25-$1000)

SPF shirts, rain suits and hats will keep your fishermen safe from the elements while enjoying their time on the water.

#5. Accessories ($10-$200)

Depending on the season there are many different kinds of accessory’s needed while fishing such as.

• line clippers

• rust proof needle nose pliers

• filet knife

• landing net

• ice auger / scoop

#6. Sunglasses ($40-$400)

A good pair of quality polarized sunglasses are essential to protect your Fishermans eyes from the sun, and also allow them to see fish and structure below the surface.

#7. Rods Reels ($200-$1000)

A good quality rod and reel is the most important piece of equipment for your fisherman.  A quality rod and reel will help prevent tangles and allow your angler to effectively present baits and fight fish.  I would suggest getting a quality name brand combo such as a Daiwa Fuego 7ft medium heavy rod with a 2500 series spinning reel.

#8. Gift Card ($25-??)

A gift card to your local tackle shop or Bass Pro Shop will allow your angler to choose what he or she needs.

#9. Electronics/ Mapping ($50-$4000)

There are many different types of lake maps available from paper charts, Navionics apps for phones or new charts for your chart plotter. There is always something new technology wise in the fishing industry, such as the latest in forward, facing sonar, the Garmin live scope.   You can pair this with a Garmin Echo-map ultra graph to give your angler the unmatched advantage on the water.

#10. Guided Fishing Excursion ($350-$800)

A guided fishing tour is an unbelievable way for your angler to gain info, spots and new techniques.  It can allow them to experience all of the gifts above and show them how to use them to their advantage. The knowledge a local guide can provide is invaluable.

I hope this helps you finding the perfect gift for the Angler in your life.    Happy fishing Merry Christmas and see you on the water!  Mike Williams, Williams_outfitters@hotmail.com

Christmas at The Old Tin Shed

Many rural-type Towns and Villages here in Cottage Country really come alive with Christmas Spirit this time of year. Communities come together, and we all begin the search for the perfect gift. While it may seem simple to order something online, the real magic of giving comes from the search; the search for the perfect item for a specific love one. It is in the one-of-a-kind shops sprinkled throughout these vibrant towns that you will find the most treasured gifts. The Old Tin Shed in Bancroft, ON is one of those shops; a must-stop when planning for both the gift giving and decorating of Christmas.

The Old Tin Shed is a really interesting stop, found in a repurposed historic church the location is loaded with character that carries over into the products you will find on their shelves. Leading up to the holidays The Old Tin Shed is transformed into a magical Christmas wonderland. With an amazing selection of festive decor you will find something to add that special touch

to your home for the holidays; that also means tree ornaments galore! With 6 or more trees set up throughout the shop you will find baubles for the tree in every colour and theme you can imagine.

There is a massive selection of everyday decor, stylish clothing, the cutest wool mittens, socks and hats, iron signs as well as a great selection of specialty coffees, teas and the perfect mug to accompany them. For the candle lover in your life The Old Tin Shed stocks a great variety of scents and colours to suit every taste; plus journals and great smelling soaps and lotions.

For the cook on your list we suggest the gift of a solid wood charcuterie board, or pot of local honey or a cute set of kitchen towels. Vintage MY hoodies are a favourite with themes like MY camping sweater, MY cottage sweater and MY dog walking sweater.

If you’re wondering about trends in decor this year, owner of The Old Tin Shed - Kathryn says Gnomes are still big this year, real touch greens and natural looking decor that make the mantle pop are at the top of the list.

If it is stocking stuffers you are after, look no further! The Old Tin Shed has a great selection of small items like mind teaser puzzles, local jams, silver jewellery and Napa Leather wallets.

So take a drive to beautiful Bancroft in Hastings County, the staff at The Old Tin Shed want to help you choose the most perfect gift this season! They will even wrap it up for you –one stop shopping!

The Old Tin Shed

613-332-6565

www.the-old-tin-shed.myshopify.com

2024 Festival of Trees

The 27th Annual Kawartha Lakes Festival of Trees is around the corner, set to take place at the picturesque Kawartha Settlers' Village from November 15th to 17th. This time-honored event has become a tradition that folks eagerly anticipate, offering an enjoyable escape into a winter wonderland filled with holiday spirit.

At the heart of the festival are the hundreds of beautifully decorated items, generously sponsored by the local businesses and community members. Visitors have the chance to acquire these festive treasures through a raffle, silent auction, and live auction, making it an exciting opportunity to WIN unique holiday décor. All the decorated items have been thoughtfully crafted by our experienced decorating committee - who start the process in September to create enough items to adorn the Village.

Beyond the decorations, the festival provides a delightful experience for all ages. Kids can look forward to wagon rides, a candy store filled with sweet treats, and a Christmas store where they can explore holiday-themed gifts and decorations.

The festival also features a cozy café, providing a warm spot for visitors to relax, savor seasonal refreshments, and enjoy some downtime during their visit.

There is truly something for everyone at this event! Kids can enjoy crafts and a performance by Circus Jonathan! Everyone will love the addition of Christmas music playing throughout the village during the event.

The Kawartha Lakes Festival of Trees is more than just an event; it's a tradition that unites the community and encapsulates the essence of the holiday season. As the dates draw near, excitement is building, and anticipation is growing. Families, friends, and visitors are looking forward to being part of this annual tradition, ready to embrace the enchantment of the holidays in a welcoming setting.

Tickets are on sale now at www.kawarthalakesfestivaloftrees.com - find hours and more information by following our website and socials!

The Wood Stove

It would be hard to convince me that there is anything out there that feels better than walking into a house in the dead of winter and being greeted by the warm dry heat of a wood stove. If you’re familiar with the feeling, then you know what I mean when I say it quickly becomes a friend you can’t do without.

Those evenings when the lights are off and the glow dances against the floor and walls in a sputtering, shuttering display that only a flame could choreograph out of sheer spontaneity. After all, the deck lights outside propose a long winter storm, big fat snowflakes illuminated out of thin air in the LED beams, and so you sit on the couch, maybe a glass with something on the rocks in your hand, with enough beech and maple dried and ready for the next day or two – that’s right, you’re in it for the long haul now.

A fireplace or even better (safer?), a wood stove offer up a certain air of authenticity to a country home. Stacking cordwood, splitting it via axe or splitter, the whole process becoming something that sits on the fringes of chore and hobby.

That’s not even touching on the smell. That wonderful scent of burning hardwood that lingers around for hours on end, light grey plumes wander into the branches and boughs so whimsically. Chimney smoke looks aesthetically pleasing no matter the conditions. A sunny November afternoon or a drizzly March morning – frigid February evening? Even better.

Maybe you’re like me in that you have a real soft spot for the old fashioned wood heated household. You remember the importance of a well-made wood stove during times of duress, when winter storms kill the hydro, and conditions don’t warrant a walk out to kickstart the generator. “Good” I say to myself. “I’ll make dinner on top of the wood stove tonight”.

It does, however, take a real concerted effort to maintain one – I’ll give you that.

Sourcing wood, paying for it if you can’t harvest it yourself, figuring out how to get it back as close to where the stove is as possible, all of this reminds me that it’s not as easy as going to the back of the lot and taking down an old elm or maple anymore. That’s even if you have the land to harvest. Some folks keep in touch with different

trucks deliver entire loads of wood to their driveway.

Some just get rid of the wood stove entirely.

Maybe wood stoves are as much a mentality as they are a commitment. Do we really save money by running wood? It depends on your situation. The do-it-yourself types might not have it any other way. A true to form nod in the direction of self reliance and a darn good one at that, because maintaining a wood stove is a lesson in discipline, isn’t it?

Regardless, imagine a Christmas drive to the relatives near, oh, let’s say Cameron Lake, when you turn off highway 35 onto the bumpy concession that leads down to where farmland meets cottage country. Through the vents of the vehicle wafts that old familiar scent coming from a stove pipe somewhere unseen. When it hits your nose, you lean back just a little further into your seat and smile a smile that no one else sees, longing for more of that wood smoky smell.

There truly is nothing else quite like it.

Mike Fitzerald is an avid outdoorsman and knowledgeable homesteader who writes for multiple publications about living off the land. You can follow him on his adventures via Instagram as @onmivore.culture

arborists, others have flatbed

Bringing Warmth & Texture to Your Home

As the colder months set in, the comfort and style of our indoor spaces take centre stage. At Monaghan Lumber, we’re excited to introduce Woodtone’s interior wall and ceiling collections, a beautiful way to add warmth and natural elegance to any room.

Whether you're designing a feature wall or updating an entire space, Woodtone’s tongue-and-groove planks offer a unique, sophisticated look that transforms ordinary walls and ceilings into standout features.

Woodtone wall + ceiling planks are crafted from high-quality wood, bringing a natural aesthetic indoors. Available in a range of finishes, their factory finished planks showcase the beauty of real wood grain while offering flexibility in style—perfect for creating a cozy cabin feel, a modern accent wall, or a welcoming entryway. Each plank is precision-milled to fit together seamlessly, making installation straightforward and providing a polished, professional finish.

One of the standout features of Woodtone’s products is their durability and versatility. Designed to be as functional as they

are beautiful, these planks can be installed on walls or ceilings to create a cohesive look throughout your home. The natural warmth and texture of wood or soffits creates an inviting atmosphere, making these panels an ideal choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and even kitchens.

At Monaghan Lumber, we’re proud to offer Woodtone’s premium pre-finished products, which not only adds aesthetic value but are also sourced from sustainably managed forests. With a commitment to responsible production, Woodtone ensures you can enjoy the natural beauty of wood while supporting eco-friendly practices.

If you’re ready to bring the warmth and character of real wood into your home, visit Monaghan Lumber. Our team is here to help you choose the right Woodtone products for your next interior project and guide you through every step of the process. This winter, make your home feel even more inviting with the timeless appeal of wood.

Monaghan Lumber, 2129 Davis Rd., Cavan Monaghan (Peterborough)

Toll Free: 1-800-354-3195 Phone: 705-742-9353  www.monaghanlumber.com  info@monaghanlumber.com

FB @monaghanlumber

IG @monaghan_lumber

REAL OR FAUX? Seasonal Decorating with Griffins

As the BIG indoor decorating season approaches, the question is whether to use real or faux? The trend has been moving away from inexpensive, artificial garland and doo-dads, although the quality of these has vastly improved over the years. Using good quality faux blooms and branches is now worth consideration. But, the freshness and fragrance of evergreens, paper white blooms and amaryllis is intoxicating. What to do, what to do? How about a clever combination of both?

After making your own outdoor fresh evergreen arrangements from boughs you source from a walk in the woods (be sure to have permission and cut responsibly) or from bundles from a local garden centre, you may have extra to use indoors. Keep them cool and hydrated until you are ready to use them (outdoors, in the shade is best), typically one to two weeks prior to any entertaining. These fragrant, fresh boughs can be the focal point of a lovely table arrangement or be tucked in, amid faux garland affixed to your mantle, stair banister or arch-way or even laying flat on a table runner. Be sure to cut a variety of branches (pine, boxwood and BC cedar are the best, long-lasting evergreens for indoor application)

into pieces of various sizes. These will provide texture and fragrance amid your faux elements. Consider treating these fresh boughs with Wiltpruf (a non-chemical spray) to lock in moisture. Once the “greening” is complete, the addition of pinecones, dried hydrangea blooms, berries (real or faux), shelled mixed nuts and other natural accents complete the seasonal, on-trend look. Good quality faux blooms elevate the look with pops of colour or subtle elegance (blush pink, soft blue or all white tones).

For an up-scale look, mix faux or real evergreens with shiny ornaments, glistening glass décor, fluffy potted cyclamen or classic poinsettia. For a cottagecore or country look, why not add strings of cranberries and popcorn?

Real or faux, these are the seasonal, botanical elements that make our homes appear welcoming, warm and unique throughout the holidays and winter months.

By Vikki Whitney, Owner of Griffin’s Greenhouses

705-652-8638 or 1-877-647-4334 www.griffinsgreenhouses.com

Seasons Greetings!

The magic of this time of year is something that is hard to put into words, but the feeling is really something quite special. In juxtaposition to the tranquil, twinkly times there is another feeling that inevitably can arrive alongside: stress. But, the good news is that with a bit of pre-planning, much of this unwanted feeling can be reduced, allowing us to simply focus on enjoying the season with our loved ones. As a mother of a busy toddler and a new addition due over the holidays (on Christmas day, in fact!) I find myself invested in looking for new ways in which to slow time down, and be more present, especially for special occasions. From what I hear from many others around me, this sentiment is generally echoed, no matter your set up.

While we gladly admit that we may be a bit biased to the subject at Birchview Design, it's true that having a functional and aesthetically pleasing home has been proven to reduce stress, and improve one's mood. Once you have your desired foundation that serves your lifestyle, adding holiday décor to your space has the power to transform your home into a festive and welcoming sanctuary. It does not have to involve a lot to make a big impact, and the use of neutral tones and organic textures allows much of the décor to be used throughout the entirety of the winter months. Embracing whites, creams, soft greys, and natural textures such as burlap, twine or greenery offers a timeless elegance that transcends trends. By opting for these versatile

hues, your holiday décor can be used year after year, and creates a sense of continuity in your home. A curated approach to the holidays, each piece feels intentional rather than fleeting, reducing waste and encouraging a sustainable holiday spirit.

This thoughtful curation can extend to your gift wrapping as well. Neutral gift wrap or bags — whether it’s simple kraft paper or pattern — allows the focus to be on the gesture of giving, while subtle embellishments such as branches, pinecones, or twine add an organic touch. These small additions can be reused, properly recycled or composted (unlike the single-use, glittery kind), reinforcing the idea of a more sustainable and less wasteful holiday season. A fun way to make this task more enjoyable is by setting up a mobile gift-wrapping station. Doing this early on, rather than leaving it to the last minute, helps make the process feel fun rather than stressful (did this just become an accountability moment for myself to ensure I take my own advice? I think so!). I like to set aside an evening or two dedicated to wrapping gifts, and make it special by turning on a favourite holiday movie, or inviting family or friends to join in on the fun.

If you’re hosting for the holidays this year, it’s important to plan to give yourself a break. Outsourcing the cooking or baking is one of the easiest ways to make hosting more enjoyable, while also supporting local businesses. Whether you opt for a local catering service, order from your favourite restaurant, or divide the meal prep among guests, removing the stress of food preparation allows you to be fully present with your loved ones so you can focus on preparing your absolute favourite dishes, decorating or just simply being the host of the house where it’s all happening. Hosting should feel like a joyful experience, not a stressful chore, and by simplifying the process, you can savour the moments that matter most.

We hope that Incorporating these mindful practices into your holiday preparations helps keep the season merry, bright, and, most importantly, enjoyable!

Birchview Design Inc. is an award-winning interior design team serving clientele in the Kawartha Lakes, GTA, and beyond. As a full-service studio, the firm offers an all-inclusive, simplified experience with elevated design expertise and project management. www.birchviewdesign.com / @birchviewdesign Design + Project Management: Birchview Design, Photography: Ashley Adams @flash.adams

2024 Business Excellence Awards Finalists & Recipients

The 2024 Business Excellence Awards, sponsored by Bell, were handed out at the awards ceremony at Showplace Performance Centre on October 29th. The annual ceremony was presented by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, and is designed to publicly recognize and honour local businesses who have demonstrated a passion for excellence.

In all, almost 50 businesses and individuals were profiled in 22 categories, with recipients announced live on stage (see the attached list).

(finalists listed alphabetically)

4-Under-40 Profiles, in memory of Kathy Windrem sponsored by BDO Canada LLP

Congratulations to this year’s recipients!

• Dr. Taylor Bonner

• Joe Curry

• Hillary Flood

• Dylan Radcliffe

Businesswomen of the Year sponsored by Women's Business Network of Peterborough

Congratulations to this year’s recipients!

Entrepreneur

• Rosalea Terry (nectar co.)

Organization

• Heidi Popov (Kawartha Gymnastics)

Business Citizen of the Year sponsored by Nexicom

Congratulations to this year’s recipient!

• Phillip Jolicoeur (PJ The Marketing Guy, Phillip Jolicoeur Entertainment, Photo Booth Fun)

Business Student Leadership Prizes sponsored by Peterborough and the Kawartha Economic Development

Congratulations to this year’s recipients!

• Ali Jammal (Trent University)

• Joylyn Johnson D Souza (Trent University)

• Swarna Latha Mareedu (Fleming College)

The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce also announced its annual Business Citizen of the Year recipient at the awards ceremony. As the Chamber of Commerce is a business-tobusiness organization, the role that a nominee for the Business Citizen of the Year Award has had in the business community is extremely important. The Chamber of Commerce also recognizes the importance of volunteerism within the broader community. The 2024 recipient is Phillip Jolicoeur! Phillip joins a long list of Business Citizens of the Year who have all made a significant contribution to the community.

Commercial Development or Renovation sponsored by City of Peterborough

• Ashburnham Realty (The Railyard Development)

• The Canadian Canoe Museum – Recipient!

• Holmes Riseley LLP (823 Park St. S.)

Customer First sponsored by TD Bank Group

• The Boardwalk Board Game Lounge

• Couture Candy – Recipient!

• McLeod's EcoWater

Employer of the Year sponsored by LLF Lawyers LLP

• Engage Engineering

• Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory – Recipient!

Entrepreneurial Spirit sponsored by Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory

• Green Street Inc.

• nectar co.

• Wanderlight Alpaca Experience – Recipient!

Peterborough County Farm Family of the Year sponsored by Peterborough County Federation of Agriculture

Congratulations to this year’s recipients!

• Scott, Paula, Jason & Shelby Cornish (Whiskey Lane Livestock)

Green Initiatives sponsored by County of Peterborough

• Camp Kawartha – Recipient!

• Cheeks Ahoy

• Dietrich Homes

Health & Wellness sponsored by Peterborough Regional Health Centre

• Acceptance Nurse Psychotherapy

• Flow Spa – Recipient!

• Trent Health in Motion

Hospitality sponsored by Kawartha Credit Union

• Levantine Grill

• Millbrook Mercantile – Recipient!

Local Focus sponsored by Trent University

• Lang Pioneer Village Museum – Recipient!

• Market Hall Performing Arts Centre

• OmniWorx Design

Marketing & Promotion sponsored by The Peterborough Examiner

• Cottage Country Lifestyle Magazine

• Harmony for Healing

• nectar co. - The Viral Keepsake Campaign – Recipient!

Micro Business sponsored by Herod Financial Services

• The Chocolate Rabbit – Recipient!

• Millbrook Mercantile

• Peterborough Disability Tax Services

Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year sponsored by Fleming College

Congratulations to this year’s recipient!

• Sama Noor Yousafzai (Goodies on Mews)

Not-for-Profit sponsored by D.M Wills Associates Ltd.

• Five Counties Children's Centre

• Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region – Recipient!

• Kawartha Gymnastics

Professional Services sponsored by Swish Maintenance Limited

• Acceptance Nurse Psychotherapy – Recipient!

• Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory

• Holmes Riseley LLP

Retail sponsored by RBC Royal Bank

• Dan Joyce's Retailing Limited

• Paris Marine – Recipient!

• Shop The Lake Inc.

Skilled Trades sponsored by Charlotte Products Ltd.

• R & M Smith Contracting – Recipient!

• Tom's Heating and Cooling

Tourism sponsored by OLG

• Beachwood Resort

• Kawartha Country Wines

• Lang Pioneer Village Museum – Recipient!

For further information contact: Lindsay Walker-Chiarelli

lindsay@pkchamber.ca

Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce

Energy Efficiency through Integrated Design

PKHBA members participate in CHBA’s Local Energy Efficiency Partnerships (LEEP) workshop on the Integrated Design Process on October 7th 2024. PKHBA members learned about the Integrated

Design Process from Troy Tilbury of Building Knowledge as he delivered information and charrette’s on how integrated design reduces costs and improves energy efficiency.

Integrated design is a holistic approach to new home construction that involves collaboration between various stakeholders—such as architects, engineers, builders, and energy consultants—right from the beginning of the project. This collaboration enhances energy efficiency in several ways:

1. Optimized Building Envelope

• By involving all parties early, integrated design helps create a more efficient building envelope (walls, roof, insulation). This improves thermal performance, reducing energy needed for heating and cooling.

• Passive house concepts such as front and window orientation can reduce energy consumption by up to 5% and cooling load by over 14,000 BTU/h (data from NRCan https://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/corporate/ statistics/neud/dpa/menus/trends/comprehensive/trends_res_on.cfm)

• The performance path in tier 4 of the National Building Code has an envelope that is 20% more efficient than tier 1. The Ontario Building Code SB 12 is at tier 3 and is compliant with many aspects of a Net Zero Ready home.

• By designing the envelope, airtightness and ventilation with the current Ontario Building Code Performance Path there is a 20% reduction in energy consumption

PKHBA member’s favorite options for effective wall assembly are: ICF continuous from foundation to roof, 2x6 studs with R22 interior insulation plus R10 continuous exterior insulation and spray foam insulation.

2.

Efficient Systems Integration

• HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems can be tailored to the specific needs of the home. For instance, insulation and air-tightness are designed to complement the heating system,

minimizing energy waste.

• Heat pumps are an excellent way to reduce energy consumption but they must be correctly sized to your home. Only work with professionals who understand how to right size your heat pump, otherwise they will not be efficient.

• A duel core hot water heater with a back up tank can provide enough heat to heat your home, radiant in floor heating and a hot tub. Planning for that much heat and possible energy storage is essential in the early planning stages to maximize efficiency.

PKHBA member’s favorite options for efficiency HVAC systems are: Air Source Heat Pump with air handler and gas hot water with fain coil (combo) because they offer heating options during power outages making the home more resilient in our climate and northern geography

3. Enhanced Air Quality and Ventilation

• An integrated design process allows for better coordination of ventilation systems, ensuring that fresh air is introduced efficiently without losing too much heat or cool air, which can contribute to energy waste.

• Airtight homes need to be ventilated. Understanding how to use your home’s Heat Recovery Ventilator (ERV/HRV) is essential for maintaining comfort and maximizing the efficiency of your HVAC system.

PKHBA member’s key takeaway: Houses cannot be too tight, only under-ventilated

4. Material Efficiency

• Through early-stage collaboration, materials can be selected that are both energy-efficient and sustainable. This includes advanced framing techniques, insulation with high thermal resistance, and reflective roofing materials.

• Carbon reduction happens during material selection. NRCan offers the MCE² Tool to reduce embodied carbon and carbon emissions in your home construction. https://natural-resources.canada.ca/ maps-tools-and-publications/tools/modelling-tools/material-carbonemissions-estimator/24452

In summary, integrated design improves energy efficiency by enabling all parts of the home to work together from the outset, reducing waste, maximizing performance, and ensuring sustainable, long-term energy savings. Working with professionals early in the planning process keeps your project goals achievable and attainable during the construction process. Always work with professionals because your home is more than just your biggest financial investment; it's a place where your family grows, memories are made, and futures are built.

PKHBA would like to thank and give credit to CHBA, Troy Tilbury of Building Knowledge and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) for data and information in this article.

Pictured Dietrich Homes

The Art of Tree Decorating

Decorating a Christmas tree in my family has become a cherished holiday tradition that brings us immense joy and creates lasting memories. Each year, we gather together to transform our tree into a symbol of the season, celebrating our unique style and holiday spirit. Whether you prefer a classic look or a modern twist, here are some of my design tips and ideas to help you design the perfect Christmas tree that reflects your personal style and holiday spirit.

Choose Your Tree

The first step in decorating is selecting the right tree. Natural trees, like Douglas Fir or Nordmann Fir, offer a traditional scent and texture, while artificial trees are versatile and reusable, often available in various colours and styles. Consider the size of your space and choose a tree that fits well without overwhelming the room.

Color Scheme

Establishing a cohesive colour scheme is crucial for a polished look. Traditional colours include red, green, gold, and silver, but don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Popular modern palettes might include blues, whites, and metallics, or even unexpected combinations like blush pink and navy. Choose three to five colours that complement each other and stick to that palette throughout your decorations.

Layering Lights

Lighting is one of the most essential elements of tree decorating.

Start with string lights as your foundation. For a classic look, use warm white lights; for a modern vibe, try multi-coloured or cool white lights. Layer the lights from the trunk to the tips of the branches for a full effect, ensuring even coverage. Consider using larger bulbs for a bold statement or smaller ones for a more delicate appearance.

Design Tip: use 100 lights per foot

Add Garlands and Ribbons

Garlands and ribbons can add depth and texture to your tree. Start by draping garlands, such as popcorn, cranberries, or beads, around the tree, allowing them to cascade down. Ribbons can enhance your design as well. Consider using wide, wired ribbon that can be easily shaped and tucked into branches. Create flowing loops or spirals for a soft, elegant look.

Ornaments

Ornaments are where your creativity can truly shine. Consider a mix of different types: glass, wood, or fabric ornaments can all add unique textures. You can group ornaments in clusters or hang them individually to create a sense of balance. Don’t forget to include sentimental pieces, like handmade ornaments or those that represent special memories, to give your tree a personal touch.

Focal Points

Create a focal point on your tree to draw the eye. This could be a

stunning star or angel at the top, or a cluster of unique ornaments in the centre of the tree. Consider using larger ornaments or eye-catching decorations, like floral arrangements or even feathers, to create visual interest.

Incorporate Natural Elements

Adding natural elements can enhance the beauty of your tree. Pinecones, berries, and sprigs of holly can add a rustic charm. You can either purchase these elements or forage them from your garden or local park. For a whimsical touch, consider using dried citrus slices or cinnamon sticks, which also provide a delightful holiday scent.

Balance and Symmetry

As you decorate, step back frequently to assess balance and symmetry. While an intentionally asymmetrical design can look chic, be sure that your decorations are evenly distributed. If you find one side is heavier than the other, rearranging ornaments can help achieve a more harmonious look.

Final Touches

Once you've adorned your tree, take a moment to add the final touches. Consider using faux snow or glitter for a magical effect. A tree-topper can make a significant impact, whether it’s traditional or contemporary. Ensure your tree is well-lit from all angles, especially if it will be viewed from different rooms.

Decorating our Christmas tree is not just about creating a beautiful centrepiece; it’s a celebration of our families traditions and creativity. With these tips, I hope you can create a tree that reflects your unique style and brings joy to your home.

Lindsay Thornton is the founder and Creative Director for Cornerstone Design & Build. This sought after design and build firm has become known for creating highly curated personal homes. Providing complete bespoke residential design and construction services throughout Toronto , Ontario, cottage country cornerstonecustombuild.com IG: @cornerstone

By Emily Ireland

Elyse Saunders

This past summer we had the chance to chat with Peterborough, ON native and musician Elyse Saunders on the heels of her performance at one of the largest music festivals in our area - Boots and Hearts.

I asked her what she thought of the Boots and Hearts energy and she responded “It was a blast there. I did an emerging artist showcase with them a couple of years ago, but it was during COVID time, so it was definitely not the regular Boots experience. To me, it doesn't quite count <laugh> The full Boots and Hearts experience definitely happened this time. It was so much fun!”

Elyse grew up in the Peterborough area attending North Shore Public School and TASS for high school. With family still in the area, she loves it when she makes it home for a visit.

When asked if there was something about her childhood here in the Kawarthas that inspired her to pursue music she said “Peterborough Musicfest definitely had a big impact on me. We would spend basically every summer there growing up, you know, running around on the stage when they didn't have people on it. It definitely made an impact.” Elyse recalls seeing so many local and international artists performing at Musicfest and says “I was like, this is so cool, that’s something I wanna do when I get older. And then when I was just a teen I had this opportunity to open ahead of Derek Ruttan and that was my first time getting the full festival experience.”

Next I asked Elyse: If you were introducing someone to your music, your sound for the first time, what song would you choose to show them?

“Never Have I Ever. That one we released earlier this year, it became my very first hit. It really represents where I'm at as an artist right now in my

current chapter and my sound and how far I've come. That one went to Top 30 radio here in Canada and then number six in Australia. I've released songs over the years, but that was the one that really hit and made an impact. So that would be the one that I show people for sure. It's pretty special to see what a song can do, the journey of a song and what it represents.”

Elyse says one of her biggest and proudest achievement to date is being chosen as Female Artist of the Year for 2024 at the CMA Ontario Awards. “They (Never Have I Ever and the CMA Award) kind of go hand in hand because Never Have I Ever was the reason, was a big reason why I won that award this year. So it's just amazing what a song can do and open all these doors; it’s these moments where I'm like, oh my gosh, wow, things are starting to really happen and I'm starting to really live my dream.”

I asked who in her wildest dreams would she jump to collaborate with and with zero hesitation she said, “I would love to collaborate with Shania Twain, 'cause she's my icon, my hero. Yes. That would be so cool. It would be awesome just to sit down and talk with her and hear about her stories in the industry and be able to write a song together. I think that would just be awesome. But also, I love Carrie Underwood. I love Miranda Lambert, Kelsey Ballerini, she's killing it. All these artists have just, you know, opened so many doors

for us female artists. And someone that is current right now that I love is Lainey Wilson. Oh yeah. I would love to work with her too. She's just such a powerhouse!”

When I asked what it was like performing live, Elyse responded with, “The best thing about performing live is just being able to connect to people with my music, I love being an entertainer and so I love kind of bringing the art, the crowd into my songs with me and creating moments. 'Cause I feel like that's my job as a creator entertainer is just to give people an experience, kind of bring them joy, take them out of, you know, whatever's going on in life for that moment. So I love that. And there's a special connection that happens with music and how music brings people together.”

With new music launching this past Fall else Saunders’s excited for what the next year holds. It is important to note that Elyse Saunders is also a proficient songwriter and was signed to her first publishing deal as a songwriter earlier this year with Arts and Crafts Publishing giving her the opportunity to write music for other artists as well as TV and film.

When asked what it is like to write music for others Elyse said, “It's really cool. It's really neat to hear how someone else expresses songs. It’s different than I would . I love sitting down in a writing session and before I do the writing session with the artist, I really like to look at their socials and, and see their personality. I try to figure out like what makes that artist special, who they are as a person, their unique essence, and then when we sit down with each other, I'll ask them what they are going through in life and what's happening. So I try to really get my head onto who they are and what we wanna bring out in the song that makes them unique - how would we say this from their perspective? I write a lot actually with a pop punk band, their name is Sucker Punch out of Montreal and they're amazing. As a country writer, there's things I wouldn't say that I could say in pop punk. So it's like this whole other freedom as a writer, which is really fun.”

With newly released songs ‘Dirt’ and ‘Neon Cowboy’ climbing the charts, Saunders powerful vocals and impressive songwriting are a powerhouse combination and we cant wait to see what the 2025 year will bring for up-and-comer Elyse Saunders.

Chronicles of A City Boy’s Life In The Country

WINTER WONDERTIME Cottage Memories

What’s all that clamour’s about, eh? Thanksgiving's hardly over before the moaning and groaning starts. As if winter’s coming is a surprise. I can almost hear the Florida suitcases clicking shut. I wonder, would our country be deserted after Christmas if folks didn't have to work for a living? No wonder our national identity is so fragile. What with all that packing and travelling and wishing we were someplace else. Maybe our problems would go away if we didn’t. Although the wife says that hasn’t worked for me.

Much of Ontario’s cottage country is southern enough to make many wonder if winter will happen again. So, it’ll be a shock to find that frosty Old Man breezing up our pantlegs again by Christmas. We’ll wish him away. Wish ourselves away, hibernate or pretend winter didn't arrive. Even knee deep in snow, we’ll shiver behind our Great Lakes shield, wondering if Buffalo will get the next big dump instead of us. But winter is inevitable. Even the snowy season’s most widespread ailment, the “Common Cold”, is named after its subzero temps. So it seems, are the cold feet the wife says I bring to our winter bed.

My winter childhood memories are flurries of fun – skating, tobogganing, skiing, plus snow forts, balls and men (now known as “snow figures”). Sure, I got chilly, but what kid cares? Then as a teen, I had to start shovelling what I'd previously played in. And dressing "cool" meant not wearing bulky winter coats or hats or gloves or galoshes. Is it any wonder I froze my butt off and began second guessing winter? Until I realized that bundling up for a couple of months is a small price to pay for being Canadian. Now all my moaning and groaning is the soundtrack of aging, not freezing.

I wonder if we deserve to be blessed with this land that many of us only enjoy part time. Many fair-weather patriots haven't learned to live well with winter. No wonder the snowbirds head south and try to live without it. Which explains why Americans think most Canadians are seniors. The wife says I don’t have to travel anywhere to look my age.

By Craig Nicholson

What Americans think of us is a wonder to behold. They see us as those metric millions "up there" with their igloos, polar bears, red musical police and threatened national strikes. As those intrepid inhabitants huddled along the world's longest undefended border for better access to cheap stateside shopping. They see us as quasi-socialists who move like molasses because we must repeat everything in two official languages. And yes, as those crazy Canucks who migrate annually from the Great White North to Disney World. The wife says, why bother since I already live in my own fantasyland? Maybe that’s why she thinks I’m goofy.

I wonder if Americans might view us differently if we'd remove colour from our paper currency instead of just its value. Or eliminate the "eh" from our dialogue and still have something to say. Or if we'd invented a summer sport like golf instead of hockey. But I guess we're stuck with being defined by our monopoly money, by our frequent use of the alphabet's first letter, and by our inexplicable ardency over chasing a chunk of black rubber across ice. Or, as the wife reminds me, by spelling words like “clamour”, “neighbour” and “colour” with that strange extra “u”.

Maybe we could define ourselves better by making peace with winter cottaging in the Kawarthas, Hailburton and Bancroft area. No need to travel any farther north than our wonderland to embrace winter. Such as to really brrrrr-places like Moosonee or Pickle Lake, where I bet the four-legged herbivores and brined cucumbers are already frozen solid. The wife says I’d be way up there on my ownsome while she stays here, snug in our winterized cottage. There’s no wondering about that choice – winter anywhere else wouldn’t be the same without the wife and our Huskies to keep me warm. Merry Christmas everyone!

Craig Nicholson is a long-time Kawarthas cottager who also provides tips and tour info for snowmobilers at intrepidsnowmobiler.com and for PWC riders at intrepidcottager.com.

Christmas with Empire Cheese

When traveling through Trent Hills there is one stop on the map that is a must for every road trip - the Empire Cheese Factory and retail store. It has always been a tradition of mine to stop by and select a grouping of cheeses for my holiday charcuterie boards, but lets be honest, the real tradition is that fresh bag of squeaky curd that never makes it through the drive home.

Established in 1876 and owned by local Dairy Farmers, Empire Cheese creates their award-winning cheeses using traditional methods and techniques developed over 140 years of production. From aged cheddars, to flavoured mozzarellas, Empire Cheese has something for every palette.

Small batch production ensures quality in each hand-crafted block. Famous for their naturally aged products free of additives, preservatives and created using only Canadian milk and carefully selected ingredients. Empire proudly upholds the tasteful tradition of quality that has been created through generations of cheese makers.

When you visit the shop located in the rolling hills just outside of Campbellford, ON you will find more than just incredible cheese. Their well-stocked shop offers an amazing selection of locally sourced goodies including jams, honey and maple syrup - ingredients perfect for that aforementioned charcuterie board!

This holiday season, make Empire Cheese part of your tradition; a perfect spot to find that delicious hostess gift, tasty gift basket and enough cheese to last through the blur of days between Christmas and New Years!

By Emily Ireland for Empire Cheese Co-op 1120 County Road 8, Campbellford, ON 1-800-461-6480 empirecheese.ca

The Wonderful Winter Experiences in Bobcaygeon

Winter is a cheerful and exciting season in the Kawarthas as there are many events that bring the community and families together. Bobcaygeon is a 1.5 h drive from Toronto and will be hosting the Bobcaygeon Mingle and Jingle November 16th and November 17th. Come join Bobcaygeon and its plentiful events this season, for further information regarding the events please visit our events page at https://bobcaygeon.org/Events .

Friday, November 15th to Sunday, November 17th Kawartha Settlers Village will be hosting the 27th Annual Festival of Trees with fun for the whole family. There will be lots to do including visiting Santa, colouring contests, wagon rides, Christmas crafts, visiting the candy shop, toy donations and much more! Please visit https://flamingoguppy-tg7t.squarespace.com/ for further information.

Winter 2024 will bring the community together with many opportunities to be involved in events such as the weekly Nordic Pole Walking at the Bobcaygeon Wilderness Park Tuesdays 9-10 am organized by Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes. The Santa Claus Parade December 14th at 5pm route will start at Kawartha Dairy located on Prince Street, to Main Street, to Bolton Street to King Street West finishing on Mansfield Street. Make sure you catch the Globus Theatre production of Aladdin, a traditional British Panto taking place December 4th to 15th.

You never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory. We invite you to come create memories and traditions in Bobcaygeon where there’s always a smile around every corner, conversations waiting to be made and new connections to form. Your visit to the Kawarthas will not disappoint as it’s a wonderful area for photography, shopping, staying, dining and playing for all ages.

https://bobcaygeon.org/ https://www.facebook.com/bobcaygeonchamberofcommerce/

JOHN BELCHER ARCHITECT AND ENGINEER

Anyone who walks or drives throughout Peterborough may notice some striking buildings: Market Hall and Clock Tower, Peterborough County Court House, All Saints’ Anglican Church, former Peterborough Collegiate, former Carnegie Library (now part of City Hall), St John’s Anglican Church, and several commercial blocks and buildings downtown, to name some. All of these structures, and more in the city and surrounding communities, were the work of Peterborough architect/engineer John Edward Belcher. One of his more unusual structures was the original Pagoda Bridge in Jackson Park (the current version is an exact replica).

John Belcher was born about 1836 in Cork, Ireland, to architect Samuel R. Belcher and Martha (Deaves) Belcher. He attended Queen’s University, Belfast, then articled with his father. After articling, John was assistant to Sir John Benson, Cork’s City Engineer, and then engaged in engineering work around Liverpool.

In 1869, John Belcher and Clementina Macdonald were married in Birkenhead, Cheshire. She was the niece of Bobcaygeon lumberman Mossom Boyd, and the couple lived with him and his family for the first two years after they arrived in Canada (1870-71) – before moving to Peterborough where John began his very successful career. They had four children: Mossom Boyd Belcher, who died in infancy while the family was still in Bobcaygeon; May Georgina Belcher, Flora Macdonald Belcher, and John Alfred Belcher, who were all born in Peterborough.

From 1878 to 1897, John Belcher was Peterborough’s Town Engineer, and responsible for designing and creating infrastructure and public buildings. Despite being an Anglican, in 1885 he was appointed as Architect for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough; in that capacity he designed St Peter-in-Chains Cathedral and Sacred Heart Church. In 1899, two years after his retirement as Town Engineer, John Belcher was elected President of the Ontario Association of Architects.

John Edward Belcher died on 20 August 1915, of cardiac arrest, and is buried in Peterborough’s Little Like Cemetery, alongside three of his brothers – Samuel, Alfred, and Thomas – all engineers who emigrated to Peterborough in John’s footsteps. Clementina Belcher “joined” her husband upon her death in 1922.

By: Don Willcock,

The Peterborough Museum & Archives, 300 Hunter St E, Peterborough 705-743-5180 www.peterboroughmuseumandarchives.ca

CHOOSE YOUR SNOWMOBILE RIDEON RECREATIONAL TRAILS

Pre-Christmas is the time to start thinking about your snowmobiling this winter. Over my years on the snow, I’ve experienced different types of trail rides. All can be great fun and make lasting memories. But before you go, it’s important to pick the type of ride that works best for you.

Day Rides

Going out for the day is by far the most prevalent and least expensive type of ride. Day rides are the most flexible and spontaneous, and typically start from home, cottage or by trailering to and from a nearby staging location. Day riding enables snowmobilers to pick a destination throughout the Kawarthas, Haliburton & Bancroft snowbelts according to current conditions, all without packing for overnighters.

Weekend Rides

Thanks to trailering, my range of destination choices has increased. So, I’m enjoying 3 or 4-day long weekend trail rides starting farther away from my cottage. Doing so, I often choose to stage various day loops while staying at the same lodgings. Each day can be different, with flexible routing and riding preferences, while remaining accessible to parked trucks & trailers. Plus, there’s the advantage of not having to pack and unpack saddlebags daily – just get up to ride each day at your choice of a temporary home away from home.

Saddlebag Rides

Another type of trail riding involves saddlebag touring over multiple consecutive days, stopping at a different location each

By Craig Nicholson

night. Saddlebag tours often take place at bucket list destinations that are farther away, requiring more time to plan and complete your proposed route. For these rides, I carry everything on my sled, including extra fuel & oil. And barring trail-closing storms, I ride each day regardless of conditions, travelling well-prepared to encounter changing weather and trails.

So, which one of these ride types will work for you this winter? Well, that depends on several key considerations:

Available Time

Jobs, family and home obligations are a huge factor in deciding which snowmobile ride type you are able to do. That’s why it’s always preferable to know how much time you have before choosing one. Some ride types and desirable destinations are simply too far away or take longer to do than the time you have available.

Destination Choice

You may have a bucket list destination. Or one you’ve heard great things about. Or maybe one that your riding companions want to visit. It’s always good to research these choices in advance to get an idea of how much time you’ll need and what the entire ride actually entails.

When To Go

The time of season also plays a role in choosing your kind of ride. During early or late season, snow & trail conditions may be less predictable than mid-season, offering more limited destination

options, which are often farther away. So, if you have limited time available, your best bet is stick to the many reliable mid-season opportunities. Even then, you’ll want to go where the best snow is. And that can also determine both your choice of destination and snowmobile ride type.

Ride Budget

Each kind of snowmobile ride incurs different levels of expenses for fuel, food and lodgings. Day rides are least costly, while weekend rides are typically pricier, but less than multi-day saddlebag tours. So, before you decide what type to do, set your budget and choose within it.

Who’s Going

It’s important to choose your companions carefully for each kind of snowmobile ride. Determining factors include their available time and budget, plus riding style, experience level, expectations, compatibility, gear and sled readiness. Family or couples groups may also have different abilities and preferences. Tailor your ride choice to the reality of who’s available to go at the proposed time.

Choosing the right type of snowmobile ride can make the difference between an enjoyable experience or one that’s memorable for all the wrong reasons. That’s why it’s smart to get started with your preliminary ride planning before the snow comes.

Support your Kawarthas, Haliburton & Bancroft snowmobile clubs to get trails ready by volunteering to help and by purchasing your

2025 Ontario Snowmobile Trail Permit online before December 1 at: www.ofsc.on.ca

Buckhorn & District - buckhorn@district2ofsc.ca

Haliburton County Snowmobile Association - info@hcsa.ca

Havelock & District - hdsc-info@district2ofsc.ca

Kawartha Lakes Snowmobile Club (Fenelon Falls) - klsc@sympatico. ca

Old Hastings Snow Riders (Bancroft) - oldhastings@district2ofsc.ca

Paudash Trail Blazers (Apsley) - volunteer@paudashtrailblazers. on.ca

Stoney Lake Sno Riders - stoneylake@district2ofsc.ca

Twin Mountains (Bobcaygeon) - twinmountains@district2ofsc.ca

Craig Nicholson, The Intrepid Snowmobiler, is an International Snowmobile Hall of Fame journalist and a long-time Kawarthas cottager who also provides tips and tour info for snowmobilers at intrepidsnowmobiler.com and for PWC riders at intrepidcottager. com.

COCONUT MACAROONS WITH CHOCOLATE

Mounds of sweetened shredded coconut scrumptiousness that get baked and drizzled with chocolate…

Ingredients

For the macaroons:

400 g sweetened shredded coconut ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 teaspoon pure coconut extract

2 large egg whites, room temperature ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

To drizzle:

½ cup milk chocolate chips, melted

Instructions

1) Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with  parchment paper.

2) Place coconut, condensed milk, vanilla and coconut extracts in a large bowl. Stir to combine.

3) Place egg whites and salt in a second bowl. Using a hand mixer, whip to create firm peaks.

4) Gently fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture.

5) Drop small mounds of the coconut cookie mixture onto the baking pan, about 1 tablespoon each.

6) Transfer to oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown.

7) Cool on the baking tray.

8) Melt chocolate in a double boiler then transfer to a piping bag. Trim away the very tip of the bag and drizzle chocolate over cookies in a zigzag pattern. Let cool.

9) Serve or store in the fridge or freezer by arranging single layers in an airtight storage container.

Weekend at the Cottage Recipes

CRANBERRY COBBLER

Fresh cranberries tossed with sugar, orange juice and liqueur, then baked under a golden cobbler topping and served with a tangy orange sauce…

Ingredients

For the fruit mixture:

1 340 g bag cranberries (about 3 cups), rinsed

1 cup golden yellow sugar

¼ cup unbleached all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon ground cloves

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

3 tablespoons orange juice

3 tablespoons orange liqueur orange zest, about 1 teaspoon

For the cobbler topping:

2/3 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

¼ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon ground cloves

¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon pinch kosher salt

8 tablespoons (1 stick or ½ cup) butter, room temperature

½ cup golden yellow sugar

1 egg, room temperature

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the orange sauce:

2 teaspoons cornstarch

2 teaspoons orange juice

2 tablespoons butter

½ cup golden yellow sugar

½ cup orange juice

1/3 cup orange liqueur

To serve:

premium whipped cream (see Serve section above for recipe)

whole cranberries for garnish

Instructions

1) Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch oven-safe glass casserole dish.

2) Prepare fruit mixture: Place cranberries in a large bowl, setting aside a couple for garnish. Sprinkle with sugar, flour and spices, then toss to combine. Add orange juice and orange liqueur and toss again. Pour fruit mixture into baking dish and sprinkle top with orange zest. Set aside.

3) Prepare cobbler topping: Mix flour, baking powder, spices and salt together in a small bowl. Using a hand mixer, blend butter, sugar, egg and vanilla until combined. Add flour mixture little by little to create a dense batter.

4) Drop dollops of cobbler batter onto fruit mixture, distributing it evenly over the surface.

5) Transfer cobbler to oven and bake for 30 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

6) Prepare the orange sauce: Stir cornstarch and 2 teaspoons of orange juice together in a small bowl to create a slurry. Set aside. Melt butter in a small saucepan over moderate heat. Add sugar, orange juice and orange liqueur, stirring until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes. Add the slurry and heat until sauce thickens.

7) To serve: Place a spoonful or two of the cobbler on dessert plates. Drizzle with orange sauce and add a dollop of the premium whipped cream. Top with a fresh cranberry. Serve immediately.

Reindeer Macaroons Kids Korner with Kenz

Nothing says Christmas to me like the smell of warm Christmas cookies flowing through your recently decorated home. There's just something about these chocolatey and crumbly cookies that makes me feel so cozy and at home. Christmas baking is a family tradition very close to my heart - and these no-bake chocolate macaroons have always been my favourite Christmas snack, with my moms homemade nuts and bolts in a close second! Some of my family calls these chocolate macaroons “haystacks” which is what you may more commonly know them as.

These chocolate macaroons are a super kid friendly easy recipe as they are a no bake dessert, however they do require some adult supervision for the stove portion of the recipe

For this recipe you are going to start by combining 3 cups of oats, 6 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 1 cup of  unsweetened coconut shreds and ½ a teaspoon of vanilla in a bowl - then set aside.

Melt a ½ cup of butter or margarine in a medium sized pot. Once your butter is melted, stir in a ½ cup of milk and 2 cups of white granulated sugar - make sure you stir all the sugar into your mixture until it’s fully combined and liquidy. Bring mixture to a boil and continue boiling for two minutes exactly and then remove from heat (how long you cook your butter, milk and sugar will determine how crumbly your cookies are, so make sure not to overcook it).

Now add the dry ingredients you set aside to your pot and stir until everything is combined and covered in chocolate. You want to mix fairly fast because the mixture with begin to solidify as it cools, so while it is still hot, drop heaping spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; and finally - the fun part -  add your reindeer details. Red and green Smarties for noses and traditionally shaped pretzels cut in half for antlers!

Let your reindeer rest for 20-30 minutes until fully hardened and enjoy!

Build a Snow Fort!

While it feels cold to the touch, believe it or not, snow is actually a wonderful insulator. Animals such as voles and mice live under a soft blanket of snow in the subnivean environment, away from the severe chills of winter winds and plunging temperatures at night. If the temperature is a frigid –40º C above the snow, it can be as much as 36 degrees warmer or –4º C, right at ground level. Voles and mice take advantage of this blanket of insulation by creating a network of tunnels underneath the snow.

You too can experience the warmth of snow by building a traditional snow fort or quinzhee. Here is how:

When the snow is more than four inches (20 cm) deep, use shovels to mound up snow as high as you can — a big pile about 2 meters high and 4 meters across is ideal. Use recycling boxes or empty garbage pails to help you move the snow from areas that are a bit further away. Make sure your pile slopes gently. Smooth the sides into a symmetrical dome shape. Here is an important tip: You must leave the mound for a minimum of at least three hours! This will give the snow crystals time to sinter (bind). If you can, leave it overnight. After the pile has settled, find a series of sticks six inches (30 cm) long and push them into it so that one end is at the surface and the other end is deep inside. There should be a stick every three feet (1 m) or so over the entire surface of the quinzhee. Next, begin hollowing out the mound. Make sure you have snow pants and an insulated jacket with a hood; this can be cold and wet work! Use your shovel and start scooping snow out. Have your children haul

the snow away from the entrance. Keep digging until you come across the butt end of one of the sticks. The sticks serve as a guide so that you know the walls are of an even and consistent thickness. When the quinzhee is sufficiently hollowed out, use a larger stick or your fist (5 inches / 12 cm in diameter) to poke three or four holes through to the outside (one overhead, the rest along the sides). These holes will provide ventilation, helping to bring fresh air inside. If you are up for an adventure, insulate the bottom of the quinzhee with a tarp and sleeping pads, then add warm blankets and a sleeping bag. If you are well dressed and there is enough insulation above and below you, you and your children can spend a cozy and unforgettable night in a snow fort of your own creation.

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

Holidays in Fenelon Falls Celebrating 150 Years

As we snuggle up for the winter season Fenelon Falls is your destination for delicious food, craft beer and treats for your sweet tooth. Whether you’re new to the community or just stopping by for a visit you’re invited to test your knowledge at weekly trivia nights, showcase your musical talents at open mic or jam nights, community events and the remaining 150th Anniversary celebrations.

On Saturday, November 30th Fenelon Falls comes alive for the 25th Anniversary Santa Day celebrations, including the night time parade and fireworks. The fun starts at 11:00 am and it’s a full day of FREE activities and entertainment for kids of all ages throughout the downtown. Santa will be all smiles for photos with the young and young at heart. Take a break from the festivities and recharge at the Tourism Office located at 15 Oak Street.

Discover the newest boutique shops in Fenelon Falls during the holiday favourite, Passport to Christmas shopping promotion. Savour the winter menus at your favourite eateries while you connect with the local business owners and staff. It’s the perfect way to show your appreciation to our local business owners for their commitment to Fenelon Falls. Take advantage of double stamp weekends to increase your entries to win one of the fabulous prize baskets. Passport to Christmas runs from Friday, November 15th to Sunday, December 15th.

It’s been a fantastic year full of celebrations and memories as we close out the 150th anniversary of Fenelon Falls. We invite you to join us as we enter into our 151st year and we look forward to the future of our village. Visit www.explorefenelonfalls.com to plan your trip, for a day, weekend, or connect with your new hometown.

Coboconk Chamber

This season is arguably one of the most beautiful in our area. With snow covered trees, amazing cross country skiing and snowmobiling trails, warm and festive local events. It’s a great time to come up and visit the Coboconk, Norland area.

This year’s annual Santa Claus Parade will be held on Dec 1st so come into Coboconk for the best parade in the area! If you or your business would like to add a float to our parade this year reach out to the Chamber and get on the list! It is always a blast and a great day for the whole community.

During these slower months it is so important to remember to shop local as much as possible. Having our wonderful unique small businesses is part of what makes this community such a special place, by shopping local you help support these businesses to be able to stay open year round and grow! So, thank you for doing your part.

As we welcome in a new year we invite you to consider joining the Coboconk, Norland and Area Chamber of Commerce. Help support the community events, beautification and growth! The Chamber has so many benefits, give us a call today to discuss membership!

From all of us at the Chamber, we wish you a happy holiday season and New Year!

www.coboconknorland.ca

Whodunit ? Release Your Inner Detective

I have been asked to do the impossible during my work as a trail guide: guarantee a wildlife sighting. Beyond the zoo, there are no guarantees. However, what I can guarantee is evidence of wildlife. The instinct to survive, to eat, to not be eaten and to reproduce usually leave behind bits of evidence posing interesting wildlife mysteries to solve.

In the fall, look for mounds of conifer cone scales accumulating on elevated locations like mossy stumps close to coniferous trees. These piles, called middens, are the compost piles of a red squirrel restaurant. Like all prey species, these chatty rodents are wary and naturally pick elevated locations to eat, preferring to dine with a view! The red squirrel covets the tiny conifer seed, a small nugget of protein and other nutrients at the base of each cone scale.

During the bare bones of our winter forests, messy, spherical clusters of leaves in the forest canopy stand out. Not to be mistaken for stick nests of raptors or ravens, these are squirrel nests called dreys. Tree cavities are squirrels’ preferred winter dens with dreys being Plan B if there are no premium cavity sites available. They use these dreys as warm resting and sleeping sites during the cold winter months.

The branch tip is effectively torn away leaving a ragged looking end. In contrast, rodents and lagomorphs (rabbits and hares) leave a clean 45 degree cut when browsing, resulting from a set of sharp incisors on both the top and bottom jaw.

If you see neat rows of small holes typically in hemlocks and birches, these are made by the yellow-bellied sapsucker. This robin-sized black and white woodpecker has a bush-tipped tongue which helps lap up the sweet sap and any insects caught in the sap. The shallow small holes are drilled just deep enough to tap into the cambium layer under the protective tree bark. Called sap wells, they have been linked to the early spring arrival of the ruby-throated hummingbird as they depend on this sweet food source before flower nectar becomes available later in the spring.

Built on a foundation of small branches and using dried leaves as insulation, dreys have cozy interior cavities lined with soft materials like moss, thistle seed fluff, dried grass, and fur. One or two squirrels will curl up like nestled earmuffs, using their bushy tails as a duvet to keep them warm. All they need is mood lighting; but I digress.

Keep an eye out along the trailside for shrub and sapling branches with tips that look ragged and torn. This is deer browse. The configuration of the deer jaw and teeth will explain why their browse appears this way. The upper jaw palate of deer has no teeth at the front, only molars at the back. The lower jaw has both molars and incisors. Gripping the branch between the flat upper jaw palate and the incisors of the lower jaw, the deer abruptly twists its head.

Patterns of 3 or 4 small round marks are commonly found imprinted into the smooth, grey bark of the American beech tree. These are black bear claw marks. Etched into the bark while climbing, black bears seek beech nuts before they drop to the ground in the fall. A bristly husk protects the 3-sided nut which is comprised of 20% protein and 50% fat! This pre-hibernation fattening food is now in short supply for bears and other wildlife as beech bark disease continues to kill many of the beech trees in Ontario.

Sometimes our forest walks will leave us disappointed with the lack of wildlife sightings. Generally, wildlife is wary of people and our presence is detected well before we arrive because we are noisy creatures with a strong odour. However, pay close attention on your forest hikes and you may spot evidence of wildlife activity. Like a game of Clue, you can test your nature detective skills by solving the mystery of “whodunit?”

Submitted by Rick Whitteker. You can find Rick at home in the forest, as a seasoned trail guide, nature writer and passionate wildlife enthusiast in the Haliburton Highlands.

Dealing with Grief During The Holidays

The holidays are often associated with happiness, cheer and laughter. For many of us, however; there is a sense of sadness and feelings of loneliness that come with the loss of a beloved animal.

Holidays can bring forth memories, both painful and bittersweet. Often people put on a brave face when heading out into the world, especially during the holidays, when in fact they are suffering from the effects of grief in the quiet of their own hearts. You are not alone.

You may find the following helpful in finding your own path through grief:

• Share your memories with people who understand your sorrow and the special bond you shared with your animal.

• Spend some time looking at cherished photographs; remember the good times, and be mindful of the gratitude you feel for having had that special animal in your life.

• Write down your emotions and any details that you don’t want to forget about the special times your shared.

• Acknowledge that all relationships have high and low points, fond memories and regrets. It is often our regrets that slow the healing process - try writing them down. It may help you to realize that you did the very best you could in giving your animal a wonderful life.

So, as you head into the holiday season know that there are people feeling the same way as you, and there are wonderful resources available if you are struggling. You may want to look at “Maple’s Corner” on our website at Norwood Veterinary Services – it is filled with helpful information and links to additional resources.

Most importantly, please, be gentle with yourself and remember that there is no specific timeline for grief – we all heal in our own time.

Dr. Leslie Scott

Norwood Veterinary Services norwoodvetservices.com

Local Humane Societies

Lakefield Animal Welfare Society 2887 Lakefield Rd., Lakefield 705-652-0588 www.lakefieldanimalwelfare.org

Peterborough Humane Society 1999 Technology Drive, Peterborough 705-745-4722 www.peterboroughhumanesociety.ca

Animal Rescue Krew (ARK) 3307 Lakefield Rd., Lakefield 705-651-0069

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

Humane Society Of Kawartha Lakes 705-878-4618 • www.hskl.ca

The Christmas Wreath

“There is a season turn, turn, turn, And a time to every purpose under Heaven

A time to be born and a time to die …”

“A time to be born and a time to die … “. A line from a song by the Byrds, that seems relevant in our chaotic world of 2024. There is a season for everything and now is the season for putting away the summer things (the old things). The stall fans are stored away, and the heaters come out. The snow blower is made ready for the winter season. The hay wagon has made it’s annual Thanksgiving Farm Fall Tour and is now stored away until next year.

Inukshuk Farm is hosting a Classical Dressage Clinic to end the year, with local international competitor and trainer, Eddo Hoekstra of Hoekstra Dressage. He will be focussing on harmony and balance in motion between each horse and rider. What a great way for us to turn from one season to another as we welcome new horses, new friends, new beginnings!

This year, as we hang our Christmas Wreath on the stable door to prepare for the Christmas season 2024, we are reminded of Christmases past and a special Horse Head Wreath that we proudly displayed at our stable entrance a short time ago. It was made for Inukshuk Farm by the late Barry Verwey. The making of the Horse Head Wreath was insightful, artistic, made up of natural greenery and shaped into a horse head. Barry knew we would love it … and we did! Barry was one of the most creative individuals I have ever known. He would want to leave behind his legacy of indulging in the beauty of nature, using what we have and celebrating each new season as if it would be our last. Let’s hope for a bright new season of peace, hope and balance both in our lives and in our connection with our horses.

Submitted by Janice Ecclestone, Inukshuk Farm www.inukshukfarm.ca

Bird Bio Bird Friendly Peterborough

The Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) is one of the most charming and enduring birds in the Kawartha Lakes region. This small, energetic woodpecker often brightens our winter landscapes, with its distinctive “taptap-tap” drumming echoing through the frosty woods. A year-round resident, the Downy Woodpecker is one of the most common woodpeckers in Ontario, and its presence brings joy to many birdwatchers and nature lovers. The Downy is the smallest woodpecker in North America, measuring about 6-7 inches in length. It’s easily identified by its white underparts, black-and-white patterned wings, and a small, pale red patch on the back of the male’s head.  The Downy Woodpecker are insectivores, primarily feeding on insects like ants, beetles, and caterpillars and thrive in a variety of forested habitats, including deciduous woods, suburban areas, and even city parks. They prefer areas with mature trees and snags (dead or dying trees), which they use for nesting and foraging. Downy Woodpeckers are skilled at "caching"—storing food in tree bark or crevices to eat later, which helps them survive winter. While they are not particularly shy, they do interact with humans, often visiting bird feeders during the colder months.

The Downy Woodpecker plays a crucial role in our ecosystem by helping to control insect populations, particularly beetles and ants, which can damage trees, while also contributing to the decomposition of dead wood by creating cavities that other wildlife can use. However, its biggest threat from humans comes from habitat loss—particularly the removal of dead trees and

the destruction of forests, which reduces available nesting sites and foraging opportunities. In the Kawartha Lakes, creating or enhancing habitat for the Downy Woodpecker is easy! Leave dead trees standing when possible, and plant native trees that support a diverse insect population. Installing suet feeders in your yard is a great way to provide additional food in winter but make sure that feeder is well away (at least 10 ft) from windows as they can get injured from window collisions. By fostering a woodpecker-friendly environment, we ensure these delightful birds continue to brighten our lives through all seasons!

www.birdfriendlypeterborough.ca

Image:  Downy Woodpecker receiving treatment post window collision at the Kawartha Wildlife Centre.

Critters Corner Woodland Caribou

Riverview Park and Zoo

ligament in their heels that ‘CLICK’s as they walk. This adaptation let’s them hear where their herd-mates are and stay together. Blizzards are common in their natural habitat so if they can’t see their herd-mates, they have a way to avoid getting lost.

Another adaptation that helps with life in the snow are their antlers. Margaret and Marley have beautiful antlers at this time of year as

vital support for our animals. They come with a personalized certificate, photo of the animal, and a fact sheet about the species. What a perfect gift for a stocking!

Adopt an animal online at www.riverviewparkandzoo.ca

By Dawn

Program

Pond,

Supervisor Riverview Park and Zoo