Georgian Life March 2021 by Georgian Life

MARCH 2021

A note for March from the Publisher February is a very short month, so that means spring is right around the corner! The official beginning of spring is a highly anticipated day among people who can’t wait to put away their winter coats and soak up some warm sunlight. But, the spring equinox day is just as worthy of celebration for its uniqueness as it is for its symbolic connection with the end of winter. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, on the spring equinox, which is sometimes referred to as the “vernal equinox” or the “March equinox,” the sun crosses the celestial equator going south to north. Equinoxes (there’s another one in September each year) are the only two times a year that the sun rises due east and sets due west for everyone on Earth. As the sun passes overhead on the equinox, Earth’s tilt is zero relative to the sun. That means that the planet’s axis neither points toward or away from the sun. Though it’s understandable why so many people appreciate the spring equinox, which ushers in increasing sunlight hours and later sunsets, the day’s uniqueness makes it even more worthy of celebration. This year the spring equinox happens on Saturday, March 20 (at 5:37 a.m. EDT in the northern hemisphere).

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Although we’ve had a wonderful winter with all the fresh powder allowing us to do so many outdoor activities, we can hopefully look forward to a season of new beginnings this month. Temperatures slowly rise, snow starts to thaw, fresh buds bloom, animals awaken, farmers and gardeners plant their seeds and wait for things to come to life with more sunny hours in the day. One of my favourite things about March is that maple syrup season typically starts when the temperatures are warmer to tap the trees and collect sap. We can go from cabin fever to spring fever! Take care, stay safe, and have a great March!

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GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

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Georgian Life Media Inc., 1 First St., Suite 220, Collingwood, ON L9Y 1A1

#ChooseToChallenge International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. International Women’s Day (IWD) has been observed since the early 1900’s. The campaign theme for 2021 is ‘Choose To Challenge’. A challenged world is an alert world. And from challenge comes change. So let’s all #ChooseToChallenge. The Town of Collingwood will honour International Women’s Day by hosting a virtual panel discussion and social on March 8, 2021 at 12:00pm. All are welcome to register for this free Zoom event featuring nine extraordinary individuals who will share their experiences and facilitate an open discussion exploring what it means to #ChooseToChallenge gender bias and inequity. For more information or to register visit www.collingwood.ca/IWD Four of the panelists this year are local women: Jill Proud has coached and mentored high achieving leaders from seasoned entrepreneurs to Olympic athletes for over 20 years. In 2019, Jill launched the Women Presidents’ Organization South Georgian Bay Chapter, a peer advisory organization connecting women who own million-dollar companies. This peer group approach fosters members to accelerate business growth and acts as a vital support network. Her passion for coaching creates a highly engaged and results-oriented experience for her clients. Anisha Holden-Bensdira is a high school student in Collingwood sharing her continuous spirit and mantra to uplift others. Already recognized as a leader and advocate towards anti-racism and cultural change. Anisha currently volunteers at the Collingwood Youth Centre, providing educational podcasts, including “In Your Skin” focusing on anti-racism, and she is a proud member of The Unity Collective, a community group working with Council and focused on addressing racism and diversity in Collingwood. Jillian Morris is a Kanien’kehaka (Mohawk) woman and band member of Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. She served 13 years with the Department of National Defence (DND) while co-chairing the Defence Aboriginal Advisory Board for a decade during that time. After leaving the public service sector in 2019, Jillian has spent the past 2 years continuing to volunteer and support events, participate on boards, and conduct research. She is a proud member of the Feather Carriers: Leadership for Life Promotion community, which is based on cultural teachings and capacity building to support those at risk of premature death. Jillian has also worked with Red Cloud Studios Inc., an Indigenous-owned production company. She continues to do freelance work focused on redressing history, reclaiming culture, and creating space to share stories. Sonya Skinner has worked at the Town of Collingwood since mid-2019 and has held the position of Chief Administrative Officer since April 2020. In the past, she was Chief Administrative Officer of the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority for three years. A graduate in engineering from Carleton University and with a Masters in Engineering from Queen’s University, Sonya has enjoyed a varied career, including leading alternative service delivery options, asset management and maintenance for highways and bridges worth over $54B and annual construction procurement and administration estimated at $3B. She has delivered business analytics and data warehousing for five ministries, Information Technology standards for the Ontario government, and directed Regulatory Compliance Modernization for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.

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Source: www.collingwood.ca/IWD

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

Thank You to Frontline Workers and Volunteers BRICK HOUSE FOLLOWS ALL HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR COVID19 WHEN INSPECTING A PROPERTY

SPECIALIZING IN: • Century Homes • Residential Homes • Cottages & Vacation Properties • Condominiums • Log Homes • New Construction • Rural & Farm Properties AWARDS

Exceptional home inspection services delivered with honesty and integrity. Long after the Home Inspection you will be glad you chose Brick House Home Inspection Services!

INSPECTION LIST: Pre-Purchase Home Inspection Post Purchase Home Inspection Pre-List Home Inspection Maintenance and Repair Inspection Commercial Building Inspection WETT Inspection (wood burning), Site Basic Inspection Septic and Well Inspections (arranged) Thermal Imaging and Moisture Meter Inspection (included) HomeBinder - Home Owner Management Tool (included) Thank you Darcy. Honestly, yours is one of the best home inspections I’ve been through with a client. You will be top of my list for recommendations” – K.S., Royal LePage RCR Realty, Brokerage

Recipient 2019 Collingwood Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Business Owner of the Year Award

Recipient 2018 Collingwood Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Small Business Owner of the Year Award Recipient 2017 Collingwood Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Service Industry and Trades Award

Darcy MacLeod

Owner, Registered Home Inspector, R.H.I., WETT, CMI, NCI, OAHI, ASHI

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Winner Readers Choice 2020 “Favourite Home Inspection Services” in the Southern Georgian Bay Area Winner Readers Choice 2019 “Favourite Home Inspection Services” in the Southern Georgian Bay Area

Some of the issues we find during a home inspection

Recipient 2018 Readers Choice “Favourite Home Inspector” in the Georgian Bay area

Carpet area

Flir image showing water intrusion not visible to the naked eye

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

Deteriorated chimney ﬂue found during a WETT inspection

Right at Home Canada, Georgian Triangle is piloting Rapid Covid Tests Rob and his staff believe in patient focused care. We are also big supporters of our community. We strive to provide excellent, friendly customer service.

Right at Home, a local home care agency has joined a provincial pilot project for rapid antigen testing, which can be done anywhere and gives results in 15 minutes. The pilot is part of a Ministry of Health led initiative to identify potential new testing solutions.

Come on in and have a look.

The goal is to compare the Point Of Care Test (POCT) results to the results from the PCR diagnostic tests that are currently the standard Ontario. POCT is a form of testing in which the analysis is performed where a healthcare provider is close to or near the patient.

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COVID testing plays an important role in alleviating the anxiety of waiting for test results, often taking more than two days. The Abbott Lab rapid tests are not a replacement to the PCR tests; they intend to be a screen; if anyone tests positive using the rapid test, they are required to get a follow-up PCR test to confirm the result. Tests are done on a volunteer basis; staff members can sign up and come to our office for testing. We have also tested some of our community members when they believe that they may have been exposed to a COVID positive person. All of the tests performed have been negative, except for one. In this case, the first test was positive, so we retested the person twice to confirm the results. The second and third tests were negative, the person followed up with a PCR test at the Collingwood testing centre, and the negative result was confirmed. Nancy Esson, Owner of Right at Home, says “when I saw the call for employers to join the pilot which the Ministry of Health is conducting, I applied immediately. We are doing everything we can to make sure that our staff and clients are safe, the rapid tests are another tool, we have turned to. In addition to providing tests, we have provided PPE to all of our staff and we have been in regular communication with all of them to make sure that they have all of the updated information as it becomes available”. The Ministry of Health is leading the initiative intending to roll out rapid testing for all healthcare settings and in other industrial and commercial workplaces. Right at Home Georgian Triangle and Right at Home Barrie are thrilled to partner with the Ontario Public Health to help move the pilot project forward. Here is the link to the Ontario Government’s announcement of COVID rapid test rollout: https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/59330/ontario-deploys-rapid-testing-to-support-covid-19response

9am-6pm Monday-Thursday • 9am-5pm Friday

Please feel free to contact us at 705-293-5500 or by email at nesson@rightathomecanada.com for more information.

Californian Baked Avocado Recipe Yield: 4 Servings, best served hot! INGREDIENTS: o 2 ripe avocados (halved, to be stuffed) Filling:

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o 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese o 1/2 cup sliced black olives o 1/4 cup mayo o 2 green onions, chopped o 1/2 tsp curry powder o pinch salt INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Combine all filling ingredients in a bowl, set aside 2. Slice avocados in half lengthwise, cut avocado flesh in grid pattern without piercing skin 3. Stuff each half of avocado with 1/4 of filling mixture 4. Place filled halves on a cookie sheet 5. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 mins

Submitted by: Suzy Rebelo

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

Be Safe and Continue to shop Local in South Georgian Bay

Put the WIN in WINTER Photo Contest We continue to receive amazing photos from our readers and followers for our online contests. The Put the WIN in WINTER contest is ongoing until spring arrives, so be sure to submit your winter pics on www.georgianlife.ca. Thank you to everyone who has submitted so far, and good luck to everyone in winning a prize pack full of local prizes valued at over $100!

HUNGRY?

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We deliver in Collingwood and Blue Mountain. Thirsty too? We also deliver beer & wine with take-out and delivery orders. Order online at bostonpizza.com or call 705-443-8776

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390 First St., Collingwood | (705) 443-8776 6

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

Ted Yoannou: In Your Corner One Year Later Remember about 365 Blursdays ago? Or, 12 Blursembers and Blursuarys, if you are keeping track by months instead. It certainly has been a blur of stay-at-home orders, lockdowns, easing of restrictions, tightening of restrictions, easing of stay at home orders, tightening of lockdowns, ever changing restrictions on the restrictions... Huh? Never mind, just lather, rinse and repeat, over and over again. What’s the best that will come of all this?

Our future leaders will have to do better in terms of preparing for and guiding us through another such crisis, to better serve our elderly, our youth, our ill, and our economy. And, in the coming months and years, we will require bold, intelligent, and decisive leadership to stave off further disaster. No more TNT styles of leadership, please (Trump ’N Trudeau). A friend of mine in our recent video locktails get-together predicted a coming boom in creativity, culture, and social change, much like the Roaring Twenties a century ago.

Only 15km away from Collingwood and 11km from Stayner

Love that optimism. Of course it’s coming, this is just the deep dark before the coming dawn.

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In the world of law, the past year has brought long-needed modernization to our criminal justice system. I think back to the thousands of hours over the years that my clients and I have spent driving to, and waiting in, courthouses across southern Ontario for a short and simple appearance – an adjournment of a date, meetings with a Judge, withdrawal of charges, the signing of a peace bond or a guilty plea and sentencing that have already discussed and agreed upon.

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Now, we are permitted to conduct a lot of our court-related business by email, telephone or video from our offices or homes. Brilliant, efficient and long overdue. As for trials by video, the jury is still out on this one, as they say. As I’ve written in a previous article, many pros and cons are being cited by lawyers and judges on the merits of trial by video, as opposed to the traditional “in person” scenario. Trial by video is likely here to stay, at least for certain cases, and when all the parties agree. On a personal level, what were the highlights and revelations that emerged in this past dark year?

TAX TIME IS HERE Do you have questions?

For me, the unexpected extra time with family and our university-aged children, outdoor happy hours, golf and tennis with good friends, multiple daily dog walks, and some great books, tv series and documentaries have all kept me engaged, laughing and sane.

Did you or your business receive COVID-19 funds in 2020?

If there has been a personal lesson learned, this is it: a deeper recognition of what is truly important to me, and a much better-developed understanding of what I want to spend my time on, and what I don’t and won’t.

What expenses to claim?

How about you? Go on, be determined. Look at your calendar and mark today as the first day of the rest of your life. (And, for the record, it’s Blursday, of course).

CEWS • CERB • CRB • CRCB • CRSB • CERS • CEBA Working from home? What is taxable?

Colleen Bannerman of Wasaga Tax & Accounting, RBA Financial Group (Wasaga) Ltd. Wasaga Beach Chamber of Commerce Business After 5

ZOOM Meeting: March 25, 2021 at 5:30pm Register now: office@wasagachamber.com Submitted by: Ted C. Yoannou, B.A., LL.B. The Law Firm of Ted Yoannou, Professional Corporation 16 Huron Street, Unit 2, Collingwood 705-888-6230 x 243 Ted@TorontoCriminalLawyers.com www.TorontoCriminalLawyers.com

Wasaga and District Builders & Contractors Association

ZOOM Meeting: March 17, 2021 at 7:00pm Register now: info@wasagatax.com

2115 Mosley St., Wasaga Beach info@wasagatax.com www.wasagatax.com

705-429-7229 GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

Colleen Bannerman B.B.A, C.C.H

FOR THE LOVE OF ANIMALS These advertisers have all sponsored this page in support of the Georgian Triangle Humane Society

Thinking of Buying or Selling in Simcoe or Grey Counties? JOHN ARMSTRONG Sales Representative

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Ardis A. Ardiel DVM Cindy Lennox DVM

THE BENEFITS OF SPAY / NEUTERING YOUR PET By spaying or neutering your pet, you are helping to reduce the overpopulation of dogs and cats in our community and assisting to minimize the number of stray or unwanted animals. Spaying / neutering not only prevents unwanted pregnancies, but it also has health and behaviour benefits for your pet! Neutering decreases aggressive behaviours in males. Male dogs are less likely to bite, attack or get into dog fights, while male cats are less likely to mark or “spray” and get into tussles with other kitties. Spaying females ends the heat cycle. Female cats can go into heat every 3 weeks – the natural instincts of unaltertered cats could mean that they may attempt to escape to mate or urinate inappropriately. Female dogs can have two heat cycles per year; unwanted behavioural changes can occur during heat, such as aggression. Studies show that spayed/neutered pets live longer. Spaying eliminates the risk of uterine cancer, ovarian cancer and pyometra (a life-threatening infection of the uterus) and reduces the risk of mammary cancer. Neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate problems in male dogs. The Georgian Triangle Humane Society Animal Hospital works with the community to make a long-lasting impact on pet overpopulation and an overall increase in the welfare of animals in the South Georgian Bay region. Spay/neuter and wellness services are available at the hospital for financially limited pet owners or people in crisis. The hospital is open Monday to Thursday and appointments must be booked in advance. Bookings for appointments between May and August open on April 1. As a provider of spay and neuter services, we do not assume the role of a primary veterinarian. We recommend that all pet owners establish a relationship with a local veterinarian for on-going care of their animals. For more information on these services, visit https://www.gths.ca/gths-animal-hospital/ or call 705-445-5204.

FOLLOW THE GTHS ON SOCIAL MEDIA Tel: (705) 446-3556

Stay informed and up to date with everything that’s going on behind the scenes at the GTHS by following our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts! If you’re looking to add more cuteness to your newsfeeds, give us a follow!

www.ArdielAnimalHospital.com

And, don’t forget to subscribe to our Bark & Purr newsletter to have all of our news delivered directly to your inbox. Subscribe at https://mailchi.mp/gths.ca/subscribe

206626 Hwy 26, RR#4 Meaford, ON

20 Balsam St, Unit 1, Collingwood, ON

Monday-Friday 8am–5pm Saturday 9am–1pm

Mon-Tues & Thurs-Fri 8am–4pm Wednesday 8am–1pm Saturday 9am–1pm

Tel: (519) 538-4898

Emergency Services After Hours

DONATIONS

Debbie Williamson Real Estate Broker

Direct: 705-441-3710 remaxdebbiew@gmail.com

Your Lifetime Realtor

www.DebbieWilliamson.ca 8

We are extremely grateful for our community’s on-going support. If you would like to donate to the GTHS, please call (705) 445-5204 ext. 223 or visit www.gths.ca/ donatenow 549 Tenth Line, Collingwood | 705-445-5204 | www.gths.ca Georgian Triangle Humane Society gthumanesociety

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

@GTHumaneSociety

Amazing benefits to seniors having pets

FEBRUARY 1ST - MAY 31ST, 2021

Pets bring much joy to the lives they touch. It should come as no surprise that the 2019-2020 National Pet Owners Survey, which the American Pet Products Association conducted, found that about 85 million families in the United States own a pet. In Canada, 7.5 million households are home to companion animals, states the PetBacker blog.

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Pets offer companionship and unconditional love. While pets are fitting for most families, seniors may find that having a pet is especially beneficial. Pets provide a comfort system that produces measurable health results. Caring for pets and being around them can produce a chemical chain reaction in the brain that may help lower stress hormones while also increasing the feelgood hormone serotonin.

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This is not the only health benefit a pet may provide. A recent study from the Mayo Clinic, which looked at 1,800 people between the ages of 25 and 64 who had healthy hearts, found that almost half owned a dog. Having a dog was likely to spur heart-healthy behaviours, like exercising with the pet, eating well, and having ideal blood sugar levels. Pets also provide emotional support and companionship that may help seniors - including those who may be divorced or widowed - feel more secure and happy. Seniors considering getting a pet can explore the many benefits of doing so.

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705.429.7878 207 Main Street, Unit 1, Wasaga

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705.429.7878 207 Main Street, Unit 1, Wasaga

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705.429.7878 207 Main Street, Unit 1, Wasaga Beach ON Gift Certificate

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• Reduce pain: Therapy dogs may provide a significant reduction in pain and emotional distress for chronic pain patients.

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• Feeling of purpose: Caring for an animal not only stimulates physical activity, but it also can give seniors a reason to get up and go, which equates to a feeling of purpose. • Altered focus: Having a pet can help seniors focus on something other than physical or mental health issues and preoccupations about loss or aging • Increased physical activity: Pets require care, and that interaction can get seniors moving more than if they didn’t have a pet.

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Celebrating 20 years of success in wealth management

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• Improved health: Ongoing research from Harvard Medical School has found dog owners have lower blood pressure, healthier cholesterol levels, and lower risk of heart disease than those who don’t own a dog. • Stick to a routine: Caring for pets helps seniors maintain a routine. Having structure after retirement can be important to ward off the risk of depression. Staying on top of feeding, grooming, and other pet needs also can help prevent cognitive decline.

Elizabeth de Groot, CFP, FCSI, CIWM Vice-President, Investment & Wealth Advisor elizabeth.degroot@rbc.com 705-444-4742 www.edegroot.ca

Claudine Finch, Branch Manager of RBC Dominion Securities in Collingwood, is pleased to congratulate Elizabeth de Groot on an incredible 20 years with the firm. Over the past 20 years, Elizabeth has built long-lasting client relationships and demonstrated great pride in guiding individuals through life’s financial complexities and milestones. Her strong belief in the power of customized wealth management is evident in her commitment to excellence when crafting personalized investment strategies and promoting leading financial planning. To experience the de Groot Wealth Management difference, contact us today.

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ® / ™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©2021 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. All rights reserved. 21_90544_GHG_001

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

HOME & PROPERTY Guide THESE LOCAL BUSINESSES CAN HELP YOU WITH YOUR NEEDS - INSIDE & OUT!

How to protect wood floors from inclement weather Wood floors are a worthwhile investment that can improve the beauty of just about any room in a home. Even though wood floors are durable, and new protective treatments help seal out many of the things that may have damaged floors in the past, homeowners still need to prioritize protecting their hardwood floors.

Relax, leave the cleaning to us!

Certain seasons of the year can be harsher on wood floors than others. Those characterized by moisture and precipitation, particularly the fall, winter, and early spring, can be hard on wood floors. Winter weather can be especially harsh and cold, and snowy days can damage wood floors. Here are a few essential steps to keep your wood floors looking beautiful throughout the seasons.

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• Invest in shoe storage. Wet or snowy boots can create small puddles that can negatively impact wood floors. Have a special mat or tray by the front door where wet shoes can be kept. A bench in the entryway makes it easy for residents and guests to remove their shoes until it’s time to go back outside. • Use a mat or rug wherever your floors get the most stress. Any entrance that people or pets use should be protected. Use mats inside and outside main entrances to eliminate as much dirt as possible from getting on your floors. Try to avoid rubber-backed mats since they can lock in moisture and damage or discolour wood floors. It’s also important to wipe wet paws when your pets enter the home and clip dogs’ toenails. • Control humidity indoors. Both moist and dry air can affect wood. Cold, dry air in a home can be problematic because the wood’s moisture can eventually evaporate into the air. The heat will suck that moisture from the flooring, causing it to shrink, creak, splinter, and become more brittle. The humidifier for your home’s HVAC system can keep a moderate amount of humidity in the house. Hardwood floorboards can accommodate minor temperature and humidity fluctuations. • Clean up the salt. Salt that keeps sidewalks and streets clear of snow and ice inadvertently gets tracked inside a home. Hard chunks of salt can scratch wood floors, and, if left to sit, salt can eventually cause white marks and other stains. Routinely vacuuming and sweeping up salt is necessary to protect your floors. Follow up by mopping with a moist microfiber pad.

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• Use the right cleaning products. Avoid excessive water to clean wood floors and select soaps that are specially designed for wood flooring. Wipe up spills promptly to prevent water from warping boards or damaging the finish. Consult with a flooring manufacturer for a list of detergents that are safe to use. • Beware of buildup. Avoid cleaners that contain ammonia, vinegar, wax, polish, or oil soaps, any of which can dull or etch a topcoat and cause refinishing problems down the road. Not sure what’s in your cleaner? Try this test: Spray it on a window and let it dry. If it leaves a residue or an oily film, toss it. With proper care, hardwood flooring can survive rain, snow, and cold weather.

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

Prepare for your next big home project

GIVEAWAY!

We are giving away 5 x $50 gift cards (to local businesses) to anyone who brings us this ad and gets a mortgage through us!

192 First Street, Collingwood ON, L9Y 1A7 P: 705.445.1300 F: 705.445.7271 greatrates@live.com | blhw.mcc@gmail.com

The planning process is one of the most exciting parts of a home renovation project. Whether it’s a basement makeover, a pool addition, or even building a new house from scratch, here are some tips to get started: Factor in your lifestyle. Think about your priorities and lifestyle – do you work from home without a proper home office? Do you enjoy cooking and entertaining? Is your backyard living up to its potential as an extension of your home? Asking these kinds of questions can help you determine the most beneficial focus for your next project.

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CHRIS DOPP

PRINCIPAL BROKER

The Mortgage Centre Collingwood mortgage_centre_collingwood_

Educate yourself. Take advantage of this extra time you have to learn about materials, processes, and new innovations. You can make smarter purchasing decisions by finding answers to key questions, such as: Is this material mold-resistant? How long will it last? Is this a fad, or will it stand the test of time? Consider sustainability. Products and materials that reduce your carbon footprint don’t just help the planet - they’re often better for your wallet, too. When doing your research, look for energy-efficient appliances, windows, walls, and more to build a greener home that will last longer and save you money in the long run. Budget for smart splurges and savings. Budgeting is one of the most critical parts of the planning process because you want to spend your hardearned money wisely. You’ll want to splurge on items that will boost your property value, like energy-efficient features, creating more living space, and a solid foundation. Upcycling and repurposing furniture and doing more straightforward projects yourself are smart ways to save.

Get in the habit of saving more each month

Spring Arrangements

Beginning March 1st, drop off your containers for Custom Spring Planting Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 9am–5pm

Saving is a vital component of financial planning. Many people save too little and do not have an accurate grasp of their spending habits. While there’s no magic formula to save money, and the amount of money one should save each month depends on how they want to live now and in the future, a handful of strategies can help people save more money each year. • Follow the 50/30/20 rule. The popular 50/30/20 rule advocates allocating 50 percent of your budget to essentials like rent, food, and housing, 30 percent for discretionary spending, and 20 percent for savings. Many people cannot save 20 percent of their income. In such instances, people can make a concerted effort to save 10 percent of their take-home pay. • Build an emergency fund. The credit reporting agency Experian recommends consumers keep between three and six months’ worth of expenses in an emergency fund. The fund should cover expenses on the absolute necessities paid each month, like utilities, rent/mortgage, and groceries. • Set goals. Savings goals can help a person stay on track and provide motivation to put money away. Establish separate savings accounts for each goal to reduce the temptation to spend. For example, if the goal is to save more for vacations, open an account where funds are used exclusively for vacations. • Automate with your employers’ help. Certain employers allow workers to direct deposit a paycheque into more than one bank account. Request the payroll manager put 10 percent or 20 percent of a paycheque into a savings account while the remainder is deposited into a chequing account. Automated deposits can help individuals get accustomed to living on less.

Opening May 4th

Photos courtesy of Proven Winners

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Exploring different backyard structures

Incorporating structures into backyard designs can provide functionality and appeal. Designing an ideal backyard space requires forethought and an eye for style. Knowing which features to include in a yard often boils down to what homeowners want to achieve in the space. Will it be a relaxing oasis or a central entertaining focal point? People often look to various structures to add height and visual interest to outdoor spaces. Homeowners will likely come across structures like arbours, gazebos, pergolas, and even trellises as they wade through the variety of features they can incorporate into backyard plans. Each of these structures can add appeal, but they also can offer shelter from the sun and privacy when enjoying the yard. There are significant differences between each structure, so here’s a look at what sets them apart.

Pergola comes from the Italian word “pergula,” which means “projection.” Pergolas were once projected from exterior walls and supported on one side by pillars or columns. Today, arbours are usually freestanding units with two or four posts. Pergolas may be connected on one side to a home or another structure. Some are freestanding units supported by four posts. Pergolas tend to be larger and offer more privacy and shade than arbours. · Gazebo: Gazebos are freestanding units that can be built in various shapes. Some are octagonal, others are square. Like a pergola, a gazebo is supported by columns and may have low railings or built-in benches. Gazebos also may have a more solid roof than arbors or pergolas, providing sun and other weather protection. The roof may have added architectural appeal, like a cupola.

· Arbour: An arbour is one of the more simple garden structures. It is usually a frame that is arched or square-cornered. Most homeowners use it as an entryway to a garden or even the front of the home. Those with green thumbs may cover the arbor with climbing and trailing plants. · Pergola: The words arbour and pergola are often used interchangeably, but to suggest the two structures are the same would not be accurate.

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

· Trellis: A trellis is a simple, geometricallyshaped structure that provides a surface for climbing plants. A trellis also may support fruit-bearing trees. Trellis work may be used in conjunction with an arbour or pergola, or be installed on fencing.

Types of home insulation and where to install them

Lynne McBride

When thinking about renovating your home, you might imagine changing wall colours, expanding room sizes, or upgrading appliances and fixtures.

lynne.mcbride@century21.ca www.c21.ca/lynne.mcbride

Accredited Senior Agent Sales Representative

705-443-7247 519-507-2121

Each office is independently owned and operated.

Real Estate is not just my job - It's My Passion!

However, unless you take inventory of the less glamorous components of your home, such as structure, plumbing, heating and cooling, and insulation, other improvements may be for naught. A home insulation project certainly doesn’t offer the wow factor of a kitchen remodel. Still, insulation serves a vital function in the house to keep people comfortable and reduces energy consumption. Insulation is typically placed in areas where air escapes, such as between the stud cavities inside the walls and in the attic, which slow and reduce heat transfer. Natural Resources Canada says that our cold climate means that space heating accounts for a remarkable 61% of the average Canadian home’s energy. By improving home insulation, homeowners can make their homes more comfortable, consistent, and efficient. Ontario homeowners who are Enbridge customers may also qualify for a Home Efficiency Rebate. If you are planning renovations or upgrades to your home in the near future, you could be eligible for up to $2,000 rebate per insulation upgrade. If you have not had to purchase home insulation before, you may need a crash course to find the right product for your project. Here’s a quick list of standard home insulation products to help homeowners find the products that fit their needs.

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Blanket batts and rolls Blanket batts and rolls typically are constructed with fiberglass, so proper safety gear, such as a mask and gloves, is needed when handling them. Installing this type of insulation is relatively easy since the materials are designed to fit the standard width between studs, rafters, and floor joists. Loose-fill Loose-fill is usually made of fiberglass or cellulose (recycled paper fiber). It is blown or sprayed into place with pneumatic equipment; loose-fill can be ideal for hard-to-reach areas in attics or inside wall cavities. It’s good for adding insulation to irregularly shaped areas. Since it requires special equipment, this is a job best left to professionals. Sprayed foam Sprayed foam is, just as the name implies, a foam made from polyurethane, polyisocyanurate, cementitious, or other materials applied by a spray container. DIY’ers who need only small applications can use canned products. Large quantities are pressure-sprayed by professionals.

“Jozo’s Ski Barn” by Nick Hodson

Foam board/rigid foam panels Ideal for unfinished walls, such as basement or foundation walls, floors, and ceilings, are polyurethane or polystyrene boards. Foam boards tend to reduce energy consumption more effectively than other types of insulation. While there are many types of insulation, all are not created equal. If you still have questions about choosing the best insulation solution, contact an experienced installer.

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

HOME & PROPERTY Guide

THESE LOCAL BUSINESSES CAN HELP YOU WITH YOUR NEEDS - INSIDE & OUT!

Techniques to Dun-Right revitalize a lawn after Painting a long winter Pristine, snow-covered landscapes can be wonders to behold. While that blanket of white is idyllic, a lawn’s delicate blades may be paying a hefty price beneath the cold, heavy piles of snow. Snow plows push salt and sand up on the grass while subterranean animals like mice and moles dig burrows beneath piles of snow as they try to find food and stay warm. Such conditions are not favourable for thriving landscapes. When the spring thaw arrives, lawns may be in dire need of some TLC. The following techniques can mitigate winter-related lawn damage. · Clear out debris. Remove any scattered leaves, branches and other debris that has been strewn across the property due to storms or snow-laden trees. This will give you a clean canvas to work on. · Dry out snow mold. Snow mold is a cold-season fungus that causes greycoloured circles or patches on the lawn where there has been snow. To alleviate snow mold, rake the lawn to loosen matted grass and facilitate the drying-out process. · De-thatch the lawn. Heavy snow can compress the grass and cause some of it to die off. De-thatching helps to remove dead grass blades and separate any matting. This enables water, nutrients and air to reach the lawn’s roots more effectively. Thinning out old organic matter also helps encourage new growth.

· Aerate the soil. Coupled with dethatching, aeration involves loosening the soil or poking holes to allow nutrients to move freely to the roots. · Kill weeds before they spread. Weeds may be the first to start growing when the weather begins to warm. Address them promptly by manually pulling them or applying an herbicide. · Overseed the lawn. Chances are there are some bare spots that have formed over the winter. Overseeding can help to fill in the lawn. Make sure that frosts are largely a thing of the past and soil temperature is around 10-15 degrees celcius before seeding. Water daily until grass fills in. Reach customers by focusing on your local market

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· Apply nutrients. Fertilizer and compost can restore nutrients to the lawn that may have been used up over winter. A soil test at a nearby horticultural centre can tell you which nutrients are needed, according to the Chemistry Cachet, a guide to using chemistry secrets for healthy living, beauty, cleaning, and gardening. Lawns can be restored to their pre-winter glory after some sweat equity and about five to six weeks of consistent sunshine and warm weather.

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

Clever and quirky crafts to try today Being forced to spend more time at home during the COVID-19 pandemic has led enterprising individuals to seek ways to pass the time. Is it any wonder that creative pursuits have become so popular over the last year? Crafting can help people fill their time, reduce stress, inspire new relationships, and serve as a source of pride when an item is handmade from start to finish. Experts surmise that the rhythmic, repetitive movements and focused attention of certain crafts might produce a calming effect, not unlike meditation. Crafting helps exercise several areas of the brain, including those responsible for problem-solving, creativity, and concentration. The following are some unique crafts for those looking for something new. QUILLING This craft also goes by the name paper filigree. It involves twisting, rolling, or looping thin strips of paper and then gluing them together to make designs. They can adorn the outside of homemade cards or be attached to stock paper and then framed. DECOUPAGE Another papercraft that involves sticking small pieces of paper of any kind to another item and then coating the object with varnish. Just about anything can be improved and customized with decoupage. MARQUETRY Marquetry involves applying pieces of wood veneer to a structure to form a decorative pattern or picture. Think of it as paint-by-number but with wood veneer. The technique often is applied to small objects or furniture.

BEAD CROCHET Crochet artists may want to take their crafting up a notch with bead crochet, which incorporates beaded string or yarn into a crocheted item. WATER MARBLING A unique craft that produces a different result each time it is done. The crafter fills a tub roughly twothirds full of water, adds a particular chemical to allow oils to float on the water’s surface, then drops different colours of oil-based paint onto the water. The colours can be swirled and manipulated. A paper or piece of canvas is then placed on the water’s surface so that the design can transfer onto the material. PYROGRAPHY Pyrography involves using a heating source and burning designs into a piece of wood. The term literally means “writing with fire.” These lesser-known crafts can be good diversions and help individuals learn new skills.

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DJ HEWITSON

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DJ HEWITSON is a family-owned and operated business serving the local area since 2009, specializing in power sweeping and water truck services, as well as tri axle services. The DJ Hewitson team takes great pride in keeping their customers happy, maintaining their equipment, and completing projects on time and at fair prices.

SERVICES: POWER SWEEPING Dependable power sweeping services to keep your business looking its best. •

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We are looking to expand our team! Looking for a job that gets you outside enjoying the sun? Look no further. Now hiring water truck drivers, DZ license required. Give us a call or email resume to tannis@djhewitson.ca Call us today to see how we can help you. Power Sweeping & Tri Axle service: 705-828-4648 Water Truck service: 705-441-0536 | dons_sweeping@hotmail.com www.djhewitson.ca |

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WE PREP. YOU PLAY. Host your own DINNER PARTY and let us do the work! Book now at Collingwood’s UNIQUE EVENT VENUE Single group bookings up to 24 people. Seasonal menus. Exclusive use of venue.

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Finding Your Happy With all that is happening in the world right now, it has never been more important to take good care of yourself and do everything you can to stay positive and happy. To experience more happiness in your life, there are two parts to consider: the part that drains you, and the part that fills you up. Some of us get so busy putting out all the fires at work and home that we can become over-exhausted with little that replenishes us. Like the yin and yang concept in the Chinese culture from thousands of years ago, there is a yes and no balance that can influence our well-being and happiness level. Notice what works and how things make you feel. Start saying no – to the people, places, and things that drain you, where possible. Are you the one who is always helping everyone else? Is there another option or an easier way? Sometimes saying no to one thing can be the most empowering thing we do. If it is your boss, ask for some help, or maybe it is saying no to skipping lunch. When you begin to stop letting things drain you so much, you begin to feel more like yourself. You might just feel more confident and in charge of your life. Remember, when you say no, you are saying yes to something else.

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Start saying yes – to more things that fill you up. You would not want to drive your car very far on an empty tank of gas. Living your life and taking care of all your responsibilities is much the same. It is not selfish to fill up your energy tank. It is quite the opposite. When you have energy, you think clearer, have more patience and kindness to give to others. How do you do this? Here are some ideas: • Cook a new recipe • Get outdoors as often as you can • Turn up the tunes and dance • Do the things you loved to do as a child • Practice gratitude • Reach out to friends, share and laugh • Learn something new • Get your rest • Start a creative project, solve a puzzle • Read a novel The best ideas are the ones that make your heart sing. As we continue on the path of healing from this pandemic, nothing is more powerful than finding your happiness in the middle of all the grey clouds. Keep smiling. This article is provided by Jane Schnurr, Business Coach for Overwhelmed Entrepreneurs at Awesome Coaching Enterprises in Collingwood. For a free consultation, please contact: Jane@awesomecoaching.com | 705-444-5338

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

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The top distractions behind the wheel

Many fatal car crashes are attributed to driver distraction. Driving requires knowledge of the rules of the road, skill behind the wheel, and concentration on the task at hand. Distractions can come in many forms but fall into one of three categories: manual, visual and cognitive. Any distraction has the potential for serious consequences, including deadly accidents. Here’s a look at some of the common distractions and how to avoid them. • Mobile phone use: Texting while driving is one of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving. Texting combines cognitive, manual, and visual distractions. Turn off phones while behind the wheel to help reduce the temptation to grab the phone. • Daydreaming: Being lost in one’s thoughts can be a big distraction. Driving with something heavy on one’s mind can cause a person to lose track of the road. This may occur when experiencing intense emotions, particularly anger or stress. There’s also a condition called “highway hypnosis” that causes drivers to “zone out” while driving. It often occurs while driving on open highways for extended periods of time. Taking breaks and pulling over if you notice your mind wandering can help. • Pets and children: Young children or unsecured pets can be very distracting in the car. As a child calls out, begins to cry, or wants his or her needs met, drivers may turn to address those needs and take their eyes off the road. Pets that are moving around the vehicle also may distract a driver. All pets and children should be secure in the vehicle at all times. • Adjusting the GPS: Recalibrating the GPS or entering an address while driving can be a distraction. It’s best not to touch the GPS unless the car is in park and at a complete stop. • Eating or drinking: Taking hands off the wheel to enjoy that drive-thru meal can be a mistake. Looking down at food and removing hands from the wheel reduces one’s ability to steer and react immediately to sudden traffic hazards. If drivers become knowledgeable of distracted driving’s significant hazards, they can make changes to improve overall safety. Completing specific tasks before leaving home or while the vehicle is parked can reduce the need to multitask while driving.

PLEASE DON’T TEXT & DRIVE Because it only takes a second to change a life forever… Protect your own life and the lives of others by making a pledge to never text or talk on the phone while driving. If you are in the car with a distracted driver, let them know it bothers you and ask them to drive phone-free. A message from your friends at Georgian Life Media Inc.

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

Campers’ guide to RV care and maintenance Sometimes referred to as recreational vehicles, travel trailers, or campers, RVs are popular. RV purchases have increased recently due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Essentially hotels or homes on wheels, RVs provide many amenities in a compact package. RVs can be enjoyable, but mechanical failures and other problems can happen.

Elmvale’s Trusted Auto Repair Shop for Four Decades

Regular maintenance, care, and examination are necessary to avoid trip interruptions. According to the recreational vehicle advice gurus at Do It Yourself RV, RVs require all of the car’s standard maintenance plus much more. • Schedule oil changes and filter replacement. To keep the hard-working engine of an RV operating at optimal capacity, oil changes and air filter replacements should be conducted at regular intervals and in adherence to the owner’s manual. Such maintenance prevents engines from seizing. • Keep it covered. RV roofs are susceptible to sun and environmental damage. Store the RV under a steel RV carport or cover it using a product specifically designed for an RV. Remember to routinely inspect and clean the roof of the camper as well. • Check for leaks. Look under the RV and/or tow vehicle for any signs of leaks. Repair leaks promptly. Transmission fluid leaks can lead to vehicle fires. When checking for leaks, check fluid levels to ensure they’re at the proper level, including engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, and brake fluid. • Check radiator coolant. Radiator coolant is a crucial fluid to check. Antifreeze protects the engine in cold temperatures, but it also helps the engine run cooler in hot temperatures. Wait for the RV to cool down before checking fluids. • Periodically run the generator. RV generators shouldn’t go unused for too long. Gasoline has a short shelf life, and after time it can break down, condense and damage the generator’s internal components. Run the generator if the RV has not been used for a while. Be sure to change the oil and filter of the generator regularly as well. • Drain and clean water and waste systems. Water systems can benefit from being drained periodically and flushed with clean, fresh water. The disposal waste system needs to be drained as indicated in the owner’s manual. • Lubricate joints and slide-out rails. Avoid rust and corrosion by spraying moving parts with a lubricant spray. RVs can be a home away from home while vacationing or touring the country. With proper maintenance, they can run like new for years.

Useful tips for RV beginners Road trips are a unique way to travel that afford travellers the freedom to stop and take in sights and scenery on their own time. Travelling the highways and back roads gives people a chance to slow down and enjoy an adventure. Such trips can be made even more special by travelling in recreational vehicles, often referred to as RVs.

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www.carquestmeaford.ca • Budget for all RV expenses. It can be tempting to overspend on the RV itself, but buyers should factor in other expenses like hoses, wheel chocks, levelers, navigation systems, campsite fees, and more.

For all your automotive parts and accessories

• Consider the size of the RV. Buy the smallest RV that is comfortable. Doing so opens up more options regarding places to stay. In addition, small RVs are more easily maneuvered on the road than large ones, especially for novices. • Add time to your ETAs. The estimated time for trips that popular map and navigation software provide are for average car speeds. RVs generally move more slowly than cars, so allow for more time to arrive at your destination. This is an important consideration if you need to be at a campground by a particular time. • Invest in storage boxes. Store belongings neatly and cleanly in plastic storage containers. Choose uniformly shaped and sized bins, which are more easily stacked and stored than bins of varying sizes. • Pack a paper map. Navigation services that are powered by satellite or cell phone signals may not be available in inclement weather or when traveling through mountain ranges. Paper maps can fill the void and keep you on track. • Check towing capacity. Make sure you do not exceed the manufacturer-recommended towing capacity. This is usually found on a sticker in the driver’s door. Overloading can cause transmission issues and/or burn out engines.

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

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GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

Cancer Chat Archaically, 20 years ago the human genome was largely unsequenced and the vast majority of human genes were unknown. February 2021 marked the 20th anniversary of the first draft of the human genome originally published in the scientific journal, Nature. The enormous undertaking was called the Human Genome Project (HGP) and has empowered 20 years of research into a new understanding of human genes, the genetic basis of human disease, and revolutionized drug discovery. The human genome is our unique DNA sequence comprised at the simplest level of nucleotide bases (G, C, T and A) that are strung together to establish a genetic code. The human genome is a staggering 2.9-billion base pair sequence. To put it in perspective, if the sequence were written out letter by letter, it would fill over 7000 average length books. A publically funded team of scientists from 20 institutions in 6 countries (US, UK, France, Germany, Japan, China) assembled the International Human Genome Sequencing Consortium who produced the draft sequence mapping 96% of the human genome in roughly 15 months at the cost of $2.7 billion. The DNA used for sequencing was obtained from 13 anonymous donors. Numerous volunteers were accepted on a first-come, first-taken basis, who met with a genetic counselor and signed written informed consent. To make samples anonymous, all identifiers were removed, and the samples were given random numeric labels. A separate lab randomly relabelled all samples and chose which samples to sequence. All records were destroyed, and no link was retained between donor and DNA sample. Therefore, the identity of the donors is not known, even by the donors themselves. To sequence the DNA, scientists used an approach called ‘shotgun sequencing’ which breaks the entire genome into many small fragments. The sequenced fragments are called ‘reads’ which are assembled into larger pieces called ‘contigs’ by matching up overlapping fragment sequences. Previously constructed genetic and physical maps assembled using genetic markers and patterns of restriction-fragment fingerprints were used to position the contigs along the chromosomes to build up the sequence. By analogy, this is like shredding 7000 novels and essentially reassembling them sentence by sentence using words that overlap. The HGP marked the start of an intensive search for ‘canonical’ proteincoding genes, and the number of discovered genes grew drastically. By the mid-2000s, the number of protein-coding genes was estimated at 20,00030,000, far short of the 100,000 estimate previously adopted by many in the scientific community. Looking back at research based on the HGP, surprisingly, by 2017, 22% of gene-related publications reference only 1% of all genes. The HGP pivoted a new era of research towards elucidating the function of non-coding portions of the genome, the so-called ‘dark’ regions. Early debates discussed the worth of mapping the vast non-coding regions once referred to as junk DNA. Due to the HGP, it is now appreciated that the majority of functional sequences in the genome do not encode proteins but are elements such as non-coding RNAs, promoters, enhancers and generegulatory motifs that work together to bring the genome to life. The HGP also offered a way to catalogue human genetic variation and permitted genome-wide association studies of countless traits, including height, obesity, and susceptibility to complex diseases such as schizophrenia. There are now more than 30,000 papers per year linking human genetic variation and traits. Interestingly, many of these associations are in the oncedismissed non-coding regions. Before the 1980s, drugs were found largely by serendipity. Their molecular and protein targets were usually unknown. Of the roughly 20,000 proteins revealed by the HGP as potential drug targets, only about 10% are targeted by approved drugs leaving 90% of the proteome untouched by pharmacology. Of course, some proteins are more important to human health or more likely to act as drug targets, and others might not be druggable. Initially, the HGP was met with skepticism about whether the huge cost would outweigh the benefits. Today, scientists worldwide use the reference sequence (available at genome.ucsc.edu), and the overwhelming success is readily apparent. The project ushered in a new era of medicine, giving biologists a glimpse into the complex structure that defines life. Image credit: Pixabay Submitted by: Dr. Oliver Kent, Scientific Associate at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. Do you have an idea or question you would like to read about in the Cancer Chat? Email (kent.uhn@gmail. com) or text (438-874-6546) and let me know!

Funeral Services to honour your loved one

If you’re considering funeral homes to serve your family, remember that the one with decades of experience has been here all along. There are some things that shouldn’t be left to chance. We are here when you need us, a caring and experienced staff devoted to helping you honour the memory of your loved one with dignity, compassion and respect. Please call us anytime to arrange a consultation to create the perfect memorial service for your loved one.

We will be here for you today, as well as tomorrow.

82 Pine Street Collingwood, ON Phone: 705-445-2651

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

182 Mill Street Creemore, ON Phone: 705-466-2108

– Locally owned and operated –

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS MAIN OFFICE

BRANCH OFFICE

1263 Mosley St. (Riverbend Plaza) 1900 Mosley St. (45th & Mosley) 705-429-4500 705-429-5500

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Power Sweeping + Water Truck Service We fill pools & hot tubs!

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Online Grocery Pickup All of your favourite brands and points at your fingertips!

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ONE STOP SHOPPING 705-429-4315

25-45th Street South, Wasaga Beach

TOOLS THAT CAN KEEP PEOPLE SAFE AT HOME Homes should be sanctuaries for their inhabitants. Keeping homes safe and sound requires both maintenance and some caution designed to make homes less vulnerable to potentially costly issues. Promptly addressing maintenance issues around the house can reduce the risk of accident or injury. Also, various items can alert homeowners to problems they may not otherwise recognize before issues jeopardize residents’ health or take a costly turn. AUTO SHUT-OFF FEATURES Who hasn’t left the house only to worry an hour or so later about whether the coffee pot was turned off or the straightening iron was unplugged? When shopping for personal care items or appliances, seek out models that have automatic shut-off features. This safety feature will power down the unit after a certain amount of time, reducing the risk of overheated products and house fires. FLOOD AND LEAK DETECTOR The financial information and wellness resource Canstar says leakages, burst pipes, and other water-related issues in a home are some of the more common home emergencies. Water damage can cost between hundreds and thousands of dollars depending on how invasive the water problem is. Catching a leak or flood in a home early on is essential. Water leak detectors detect a potential flood or leak at an early stage so homeowners can take action. Sensors may sound an alarm or be connected to a WiFi system to alert a mobile device. CARBON MONOXIDE AND GAS DETECTION It is vital that homeowners install carbon monoxide detectors in their homes. Carbon monoxide is odourless and colourless, and can cause poisoning that slowly suffocates a person. It is also combustible. Carbon monoxide devices cannot detect a gas leak, but gas detectors can. Because carbon monoxide is found in the fumes produced when fuel is burned, it is present in and around homes. Homeowners should be aware of carbon monoxide and make every effort to detect its presence. Carbon monoxide devices are a wise addition for people who have natural gas appliances or older, gas-powered appliances. CO forms most readily when there is insufficient oxygen to complete combustion and produce carbon dioxide. Hot water closets, furnaces in crawlspaces, heating appliances in attics, and other contained areas are common areas where CO can form. CO is produced anytime something is burning. That is why it is essential that products designed to be used outdoors are used exclusively outside, and that indoor appliances are properly vented to the outdoors. CO can build up indoors and poison people and pets who breathe it in. Common CO poisoning symptoms include nausea and vomiting, dizziness, chest pain, confusion, headache, and other flu-like symptoms. Those with repeated exposure to high levels of CO may eventually develop cerebral edema, which is a swelling of the brain. CO poisoning is actually the result of the head and heart not receiving sufficient oxygen. Gas sensors in CO alarms have limited life spans, so they should be replaced generally every five to six years, because calibrating and testing for CO is more difficult than simply replacing the alarms. Installing or replacing carbon monoxide detectors is an easy improvement that can help save lives. SUMP PUMP ALARM A sump pump can mean the difference between a flooded basement and a dry floor. Homeowners may not recognize a sump pump malfunction during a power outage, and clogs also may not be detectable until the basement floods. Sump pump alarms incorporated into the system alert homeowners that something is amiss. Homeowners can rely on devices and other tools to prevent their homes from being damaged and themselves and their families safe.

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

ARE YOU READY?

SPRIGGS INSURANCE BROKERS LIMITED (Formerly B. Wheeler & Sons)

PRINCIPLES OF FIRST-AID EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW Emergencies can strike at any time. When such situations arise, emergency care often must be administered to someone who is sick or injured, and that care can mean the difference between life and death.

Automobile • Farm • Home Commercial • Boat 1071 County Road #42, Stayner, ON info@spriggs.ca www.spriggs.ca

T: (705) 428-3138 F: (705) 428-0397

Being prepared for emergencies means understanding basic first aid procedures that can help a person navigate a crisis — or at least stabilize the situation until paramedics arrive. The following are some first aid principles that individuals should know and practice. They should not replace formal first aid training but can assist a person when he or she is providing medical care to someone in need. BLEEDING Bleeding can almost always be controlled until more help is available. Severe bleeding can lead to shock and death, so bleeding needs to be addressed immediately. Cloth should be used to cover the wound, and direct pressure should be applied to stop the blood flow. Do not remove the cloth; add more layers as needed. Tourniquets may do more damage to a limb than good, so they are generally no longer recommended. Nosebleeds can be treated by pinching the nostrils for a few minutes until the bleeding stops. Wounds to the head and mouth tend to bleed a lot, even if they are superficial. So keep a level head when addressing these areas. CPR Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is one of the most essential medical procedures to know. If the heart is no longer pumping blood, a person can die quickly. Immediately start chest compressions hard and fast in the center of the chest, allowing recoil between compressions. Many buildings also have automated external defibrillator devices that can help save lives. If you are not trained in CPR, then provide hands-only CPR, says the Mayo Clinic. That means uninterrupted chest compressions of 100 to 120 a minute (the beat of “Stayin’ Alive” by The Bee Gees) until paramedics arrive. People who are trained also may perform rescue breathing. The Red Cross and other medical groups offer first aid and CPR certification classes that train people on how to perform CPR and use an AED.

BAKERY • BUTCHER • DELI • PHARMACY WINE & BEER • IN-STORE STARBUCKS

FLOWERS & GIFT BASKETS/BOXES

for all occasions

640 First St. Collingwood 705-444-5252

Specialty cleaners of rugs and upholstery

705-444-4737 wiley1@rogers.com

FAINTING Someone suffering from shock or fainting needs blood to get back to his or her brain. Victims should lie on their backs with their feet elevated. CHOKING The Heimlich maneuver can be performed when someone is choking. Contrary to popular belief, people who are choking do not typically make any sounds. Stand behind the victim and wrap your arms around him. Place a fist between the person’s rib cage and belly button, and place your other hand over the fist. Deliver a quick thrust upward, and keep doing this until the foreign object is dislodged. Choking in children is handled differently depending on the child’s age. Parents can get training in child maneuvers. SPRAINS & FRACTURES Sprains and fractures occur readily, especially among active adults and children. Immobilize the limb, apply a cold pack, elevate it, and offer antiinflammatory drugs for discomfort and swelling. A doctor should be seen for further diagnosis and treatment. Common first aid procedures can help save lives or reduce the severity of injuries when promptly offered.

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

NOW OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK

Monday to Wednesday 8am–6pm Thursday & Friday 8am-9pm Saturday 8am-6pm | Sunday 9am-6pm

SERVICE DEPARTMENT OPEN

Monday to Saturday 8am–5pm Sunday 9am–5pm

75 45th St. S., Wasaga Beach, ON Tel: 705-422-1250 | Fax: 705-422-1098

WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY. LISA MANTELLA Sales Representative

705-352-6000 RE/MAX of Wasaga Beach Inc. Brokerage

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

PREVENT POISONING

Call/Text Now for Complimentary Home Staging Guide

CANDY LOOKALIKES A POTENTIAL POISONOUS THREAT Providing Children the Opportunity to be the “Best They Can Be”

499 River Road West, Wasaga Beach 705-429-0115 • www.caithkin.org

Poisons can crop up in various forms and are not necessarily the substances people may typically think of as dangerous. For example, xylitol, an artificial sweetener widely used in chewing gums and toothpaste, is generally safe for people. However, if dogs eat xylitol, they may soon be in severe distress and can even die. And, while peanut butter may be a lunchtime staple for many people, others with peanut allergies may experience life-threatening reactions to the same food. Unfortunately, dangerous reactions can be caused by an array of substances found in homes across the globe. Children and even adults may mistakenly ingest products they do not realize are medications or supplements. Coated pain relievers can look like candy-covered chocolates. Children’s vitamins may be over-consumed because gummies and chewables can taste like popular candies. Furthermore, certain medicines are flavoured to make them more palatable. It’s easy to mistake a chocolate-covered laxative or a berry-flavoured antacid tablet for a treat. Other products may be mistakenly consumed as well. Brightly coloured sports drinks can look similar to vividly hued cleaning solutions. Pine cleaner also is virtually the same colour as apple juice, and unwitting children may consume the wrong liquid if it’s within reach. Candy-coated gum is nearly identical to nicotine replacement gums used in smoking cessation programs. With the increase of edible cannabis products like gummies and baked goods, children may consume these tempting treats containing THC, the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis.

950 River Road West, Wasaga Beach (705) 429-2517 • www.wasagadist.ca Your Local Electricity Distribution Provider

Approved Veterans Provider

Adding Life to Years...

It’s What We Do

Adrienne Wood, Care Planner Georgian-Triangle

WE ARE HIRING

CALL NOW!

Home Health Care & Support Services

313B Hurontario Street, Collingwood

705.293.5500

Toll Free: 1.855.983.4663 26

Keeping food and candy separated from medicines and cleaning products is essential to prevent mix-ups. Locking away edibles and medications can protect curious children as well.

CLEAN OUT THE MEDICINE CABINET Spring cleaning takes on an entirely new meaning when getting rid of expired or unsafe medicines. Even though people may be quick to toss out expired foods or even clean closets of ill-fitting clothing, few individuals exercise such diligence with their medicine cabinets. The medicine expiration date is critical when determining if a product is safe to use and will work as intended. Medications past their expiration date may not be as strong as intended, and even their chemical composition may change, making them risky to keep around. Furthermore, keeping too many medications in a home - particularly pain prescriptions - can lead to misuse and abuse. Some old medications, such as children’s cough and cold products, may no longer be recommended for specific ages. Having such medicines in the house could prove harmful. Taking inventory and cleaning out medicine cabinets frees up space and creates a safe home environment. • Toss away any expired products, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter medicines. The best thing to do is bring medication to a pharmacy for disposal, rather than throwing it in the garbage or flushing down the toilet. • Discard any unmarked containers or pill foils that are not in their original packaging. • Test any medical devices, such as a nebulizer, blood pressure monitor, and glucose testing equipment to ensure they are in working order. • Replenish commonly used items, such as fever reducers or headache medicines. Make sure there is a supply of bandages and first aid equipment on hand at all times. • Relocate medical supplies to an area that isn’t high in humidity, as steam from showers can speed up medication expiration. Storing medicines in the refrigerator won’t help, as that is a high-humidity area, too. Checking medications and removing expired products from the house can prevent accidents related to medications and ensure that all medicines are as effective as possible.

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

You will get a special email from us on your birthday (and some amazing offers from local businesses) It’s our way of saying ‘thanks for being you’ on the best day of the year! 15% OFF ENTIRE STORE Collingwood Olive Oil 42 Ste. Marie St., Collingwood 705-293-OILS (6457) www.collingwoodoliveoil.ca

25% OFF YOUR PURCHASE Habitat For Humanity ReStore 155 Sandford Fleming Dr., Collingwood 705-446-9740 www.habitatgeorgianbay.ca/restore

FREE ENTRY FOR TWO

FOR WALK-ON PAINTBALL

Wasaga Adventure Park 3600 Vigo Rd., Elmvale 705-322-6321 www.wasagaadventurepark.com

FREE TIRAMISU OR TARTUFO

WITH MEAL PURCHASE

MMEA Catering 1246 Mosley St., Wasaga Beach 705-429-3034 www.mmeacatering.com

15% OFF YOUR ORDER Pizza Perfect 158 Mill St., Creemore 705-466-2776 facebook.com/pizzaperfectdiner

FREE APPETIZER WITH MEAL PURCHASE

Friends Pub 7287 Highway 26, Stayner 705-428-6666 facebook.com/Friends-Pub-100777244819619 Excludes App Platter.

15% OFF

ALL WATER CARE AND ACCESSORIES

25% OFF

THE PHARMASAVE BRAND

Beachcomber Hot Tubs

River Road Pharmacy

20 Balsam St. Unit #7, Collingwood 705-446-9722 www.beachcombercollingwood.com

1256 Mosley St. Unit #3, Wasaga Beach 705-352-0781 www.pharmasave.com/wasaga-beach

Not in conjunction with any other offer.

FREE DESSERT Fig & Feta Greek Eatery

20% OFF YOUR PURCHASE

65 Hurontario St., Collingwood 705-446-9966 www.figandfeta.ca

FREE BUTTERTART, COFFEE OR TEA Grandma’s Beach Treats 1014 Mosley St., Wasaga Beach 705-429-2243 facebook.com/grandmas.beach.treats

The Candy Factory 645 Hurontario St., Collingwood 705-445-2400 www.candyfactory.ca

15% OFF

ALL REGULAR PRICED MERCHANDISE

IDA Stuart Ellis

169 Hurontario St., Collingwood 705-445-4711 www.stuartellispharmacy.ca Excludes prescriptions, lottery and gift cards. Other restrictions may apply.

Must subscribe to Birthday Club to receive email to claim offers. Above offers are for March birthdays. All offers are valid for 30 days after your birthday. I.D. proof required. Email will be sent on your birthday.

georgianlife.ca/birthdayclub GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021

Read Ted’s article “In Your Corner” on page 7

• All Criminal Driving Offences including Over 80, Impaired Driving, Dangerous Driving, etc. • All Criminal Offences including Thefts, Assaults, Drugs, etc. • All Highway Traffic Act Offences including Careless Driving, Stunt Driving, Driving While Suspended, etc. • Record Suspensions (Pardons), U.S. Waivers, Police Fingerprint and Photo Destruction Applications

2 Ofﬁce Locations, conveniently serving Simcoe County and the Greater Toronto Area 16 Huron St., Suite 2, Collingwood, ON 705-888-6230

COLLINGWOOD OFFICE

TORONTO OFFICE

1000 Finch Ave., West, Suite 600, Toronto, ON 416-650-1011 Ted@TorontoCriminalLawyers.com www.TorontoCriminalLawyers.com

FOR A FREE CONSULTATION, CALL OR EMAIL TED TODAY! 28

GEORGIAN LIFE • MARCH 2021