2013
596 Kingston Rd.W., Ajax L1T 3A2
Green
Local Artist Natasha
Our cover this year is by one of our own staff members, Natasha Green. Natasha was born in Port Perry and raised in Little Britain. She is actively involved in the Green family Studio where she got her start. This year her illustration work is showcased in the Standard’s 2013 Christmas Colouring Book as well as on the cover of this publication. She is both an author and an illustrator and we look forward to seeing more of her work in the future.
Colleen Green, Blake Wolfe, Kelly Doughty, Tom Thekan, Darryl Knight, Walt Radda, Nancy Lister, Chris Green, Amanda McFarland, Natasha Green, Elizabeth Peck, Ben Priebe, Dolly Bradt, Lyddie Bradt, Emma Brouwer, Richard Gunn, Carol Phillips, Dave Bradt, Lois Griffioen, Pat Boyd, Eleanor Coldwell, Joyce Kelly, Sherri Kerry, Jean Le Saux, Shirley Love, J. Wally Nesbitt, Bruce Rogers, Jean Short, Robin Drew, Mary Jean Till, Denise Wilson, Jackie DempsterO’Halloran, Micheline Hill, Melissa Weishuhn, Pat Asling, Heather McCrae, and Maureen Moore
RELAX Leave the CLEANING
to us…
GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
905-852-1422 • 1-888-729-4440 The Standard’s
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Quizmas holiday season
The power of local spending during the
1. The name of Scrooge’s deceased partner in Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ was?
2. What is the name of Tiny Tim’s father in the story ‘A Christmas Carol’? 3. What did Frosty The Snowman have for a nose? 4. How many gifts would you receive if you received all of the gifts in the song ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’? See page 12 for answers
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(NC) Preparing for the holiday season is often associated with gift lists, bargain hunting and potentially crowded or stressful shopping experiences searching for the perfect gift. This year, try exploring your local businesses for unique items and make local purchases to help support neighbourhood businesses during a season that sees a lot of consumer dollars crossing the border or disappearing online with retailers around the world. “Shopping off-the-beaten path in one of your neighbourhood stores can be a much calmer experience during the holiday shopping season,” said François Ramsay, Senior Vice-President, Corporate Affairs for Yellow Pages Group, a digital media and marketing solutions company. “Additionally, every purchase you make at a local business has a direct impact on the surrounding neighbourhood and the local economy, strengthening it and helping create sustainability and growth in our communities.” Among the positive impacts of local shopping are: • Job Creation: Small businesses are the largest group of employers in the country • Local Impact: Dollars spent within the neighbourhood directly benefit the local economy and tend to be re-invested within the community. • Neighbourhood Prosperity: The presence and success of small businesses play key roles in giving communities their identities and also influence neighbourhood desirability and growth. • Customer Service: Independent retailers often personalized service, making shopping a less stressful and more meaningful experience. There are a number of events across Canada that encourage local shopping, including Shop The Neighbourhood. This initiative of Yellow Pages Group takes place on November 30, 2013, strategically sandwiched between the Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping holidays with the goal of raising awareness and encouraging people to make local purchases in support of their neighbourhood businesses. This year’s Shop The Neighbourhood event takes place in the GTA with consumers benefitting from exclusive Shop The Neighbourhood deals offered by local merchants specifically for event day. Holiday sales typically make up a considerable amount of retailers’ annual sales. So help support your favourite local store or service this holiday season by supplementing or completing your holiday gift list purchases locally.
holiday entertaining
5 easy tips for
(NC) With all the hustle and bustle of the festive season, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed at the idea of planning a party or family gathering. Hosts are always looking for easy entertaining ideas that will save time and make their guests merry. Here are five simple tips for easy party planning: Decorate simply– Instead of investing in costly decorations, simply spruce up your space with scented candles, seasonal fresh flowers and vintage holiday ornaments. Place a few ornaments in a glass vase or atop a cake stand with greenery for a stunning centerpiece. Ensure lighting in the room is warm and subdued to make your guests feel at home. Signature cocktail- Avoid being the bartender all night and create a fun, festive signature cocktail. Create an area where guests can serve themselves from a decorative punch bowl with holiday-themed glassware, allowing you to en-
joy the party and mingle with your guests. Keep wine and beer on hand for easy self-serve refreshments. DIY coffee bar– As the celebration winds down, it’s time to bring out the coffee, tea and hot chocolate. Instead of slaving away in the kitchen making multiple drinks, opt for a single-serve home brewer, says leading brand, Bosch. Their Tassimo T47 easily allows guests to brew their own customized hot beverages with the touch of a button. It makes the perfect cup of coffee, espresso, cappuccino or latte in under a minute with its patented barcode technology. For a festive touch, serve with candy cane pieces, chocolate shavings and cinnamon to garnish. Relax and have fun- The most important tip for any good party host is to relax and enjoy themselves. Focus on what really matters – celebrating the spirit of the season and enjoying the company of friends and family.
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Keep your pets safe during Custom Freezer Orders Whole Lamb Individual Selections Legs & Shanks Chops & Racks Roasts & Ground Stew & Kabob Pieces
“It’s True!” Fresh Ontario Lamb
E: jenny@durhamlamb.ca Jenny Carnaghan (H): 905-986-5120 www.durhamlamb.ca Luke Carnaghan (C): 905-261-1658 Zach Grove (C): 905-259-2250
Boarding I Training I Lessons LESSONS AVAILABLE FOR ALL LEVELS
905.982.1198 www.windyhill.ca
a Visit us for full line of bird feeders eed. and fresh s 40 Vanedward Dr. Port Perry
905-985-7363 4
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(NC) Celebrating the holidays is exciting for most families, but small changes in the environment can be stressful for pets. From holiday feasts to decorations, the holidays present many exciting and potentially dangerous situations for our furry friends. To protect them take a look at these tips: Deck the halls with tape and cord covers: Holiday decorations mean extra electrical cords, plugs and plenty of tempting new “chew toys.” Pet parents should take the extra time during decorating to tape down or cover cords to help prevent shocks, burns or more serious injuries. How anchored are your trees? Seasonal trees are sure to attract a pet’s attention and should be secured to keep from toppling over if a pet should try to climb them, use them as a scratching post, or simply bump into them. Since cats are inclined to eat tinsel and/or ribbons hanging from trees, these decorations should be placed high on the tree or not used at all. Bells are ringing, children singing, but pets need a quiet place to retreat: During the holidays, pets may not understand why their usually quiet home is filled with people and noise. Learn to notice behavioural cues in your dog. If he is feeling anxious he may begin to quiver, whine, or cry and will probably have his ears back and his tail between his legs. Pet parents should provide a quiet place to retreat so the little ones can choose whether to come out and visit or keep to themselves. Using a ‘Thundershirt’ can also calm down a nervous dog by applying gentle pressure to the body. Similarly, a calming collar for your cat will release soothing pheromones.
holiday season Q
the
uizmas
5. In the song ‘Winter Wonderland’, who do we pretend the snowman is? 6. In the traditional song, ‘Go Tell it on the Mountain’, what are you suppose to go tell on a mountain? 7. According to the song, ‘Frosty the Snowman’ what kind of soul does Frosty have?
Human holiday feasts are not for the pets: Cats and dogs love rich table scraps such as drippings gravy and poultry skin. This, however, can cause pets to suffer from severe upset stomach, diarrhea and even pancreatitis, which is not only terribly painful, but can be fatal. Giving your dog poultry bones is also a bad idea as they can splinter and form sharp points that can get stuck in the gastrointestinal tract. Give them a pet-friendly treat like the Elk Antler dog chew, which come in a variety of holiday flavours including cinnamon apple.
See page 12 for answers
More information about pet safety is available online at www. petsmart.com.
1869 Scugog St. Port Perry
905.982.2700 The Standard’s
Family
Christmas
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Puzzles
Christmas
Only one of the presents is exactly the same as the present in the square. Can you find out which one? Answer on page 12
CHRISTMAS WORD SEARCH
HOLLY REINDEER SANTA
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GIFTS STOCKING MISTLETOE FAMILY
Puzzles
Christmas
Quizmas
8. True or False: Joseph was the one that told Mary she was going to have a baby. 9. In the ‘Christmas Song’, who did I (the narrator) see kissing Santa Claus under the mistletoe last night?
GHO D XO Y I S T RD Z MW R E E R MR E S T B EO A K X
H T K OW F O H E B FWA Z L I OG LM I Y LWX E I P Y F Y HG L T DN I E R Y S OX J GR A D OC K I NGU T E L T A I M QB A F RUG
Dowson’s Water Haulage
See page 12 for answers
Since 1969
ALLEN’S SIDING PRODUCTS LTD.
178 Reach Industrial Park Rd. Port Perry 905-985-3333 www.allenssiding.ca
Also delivering water for Skating Rinks & Hot Tubs
705-357-2170 The Scugog Standard’s
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Family
Carols
Away in a Manger Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head, The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay, The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay. The cattle are lowing, the poor baby wakes, But little Lord Jesus no crying He makes, I love Thee Lord Jesus, look down from the sky And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh. Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay Close by me forever, and love me, I pray. Bless all dear children in Thy tender care, And take us to Heaven, to live with Thee there.
Anita Van Zeeland F.T.A.
TAX RETURNS FROM $30
Pe r s o n al , Sm al l Bu si ness, Corporate Fu l l Accou nt i ng s er vi ces f o r all ty p es of b u s i n es s es , in cl u d in g audi t s , t axes , CRA remi ttan c es , p ay rol l , d e b t e l imi nat i o n, f i nanci al plan n i n g & b u d g ets .
36 Wa te r St. Po rt Perr y • 905-9 85 -1926 •w w w. 1f c. ca 8
The Standard’s
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Family
Carols
Good King Wenceslas Good King Wenceslas looked out On the feast of Stephen When the snow lay round about Deep and crisp and even Brightly shone the moon that night Though the frost was cruel When a poor man came in sight Gath’ring winter fuel
In his master’s steps he trod Where the snow lay dinted Heat was in the very sod Which the Saint had printed Therefore, Christian men, be sure Wealth or rank possessing Ye who now will bless the poor Shall yourselves find blessing
“Hither, page, and stand by me If thou know’st it, telling Yonder peasant, who is he? Where and what his dwelling?” “Sire, he lives a good league hence Underneath the mountain Right against the forest fence By Saint Agnes’ fountain.” “Bring me flesh and bring me wine Bring me pine logs hither Thou and I will see him dine When we bear him thither.” Page and monarch forth they went Forth they went together Through the rude wind’s wild lament And the bitter weather “Sire, the night is darker now And the wind blows stronger Fails my heart, I know not how, I can go no longer.” “Mark my footsteps, my good page Tread thou in them boldly Thou shalt find the winter’s rage Freeze thy blood less coldly.”
“The Heart of Christmas” Christmas Banquet Saturday, December 7th
Everyone is welcome! 6:30 pm ~ Cost: Adult - $15, Child 4-10 - $7.50, Child 0-3 FREE Call or pick up tickets at VCC
Christmas Eve Service Tuesday, December 24th
New Year’s Eve Celebration 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Tuesday, December 31st Games 8:00 pm to 10:30 pm Service 10:30 pm to midnight
Victory Christian Centre 593 Alma Street, Port Perry
For more information please call 905-985-1346 or visit our website: victorychristiancentre.net for special guest speakers and program. The Standard’s
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Family
Recipes
Party Mix
This timeless favourite is always a hit. Try this version made with Chinese five spice; a mix of star anise, cinnamon, cloves, Szechwan peppercorns and fennel that is primarily used in Asian cuisine. These warm flavours are a wonderful addition to any festive gathering.
1 cup 1 cup 3 cups 3 cups 2 cups
Peanuts Corn Nuts Chex Cereal Cheerios Cereal Pretzels
3/4 cup Butter 1 tbsp Chinese Five-Spice 1 pkg Taco Seasoning 2 tbsp Soy Sauce 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
Directions: 1. In a large bowl combine peanuts, corn nuts, chex, cheerios and pretzels. 2. In small pot melt butter. Add five spice, taco seasoning, soy sauce and brown sugar. 3. Stir well to combine and drizzle over cereal and nut mixture.
Gre a Ideat Gift !
Herongate Barn Dinner Theatre Family Christmas Parties The Perfect Gift for Everyone! An evening at our converted Dairy Barn is a treat.. Beautiful hand hewn beams in a warm and cozy atmosphere! Delicious meals & Great Shows! Discover why Herongate is ‘Ontario’s favourite Dinner Theatre’
Award Winning Dinner & Shows Close to You! 2885 Altona Rd. Pickering On. Reservations 905-472-3085 www.herongate.com
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4. Mix well to coat and place on rimmed baking sheet. 5. Bake at 250F in preheated oven for 1 hour stirring occasionally. Chef Elizabeth Peck is owner of Peckish Catering and a Culinary Instructor. www.peckishcatering.ca
Century Home & Garden Greenhouses Outdoor Arrangements Ready Made or Make Your Own
10 varieties of
Christmas Trees
10 colours & various sizes
Poinsettias Gift Ideas & Gift Certificates Available
1431 Hwy. 7A, Port Perry
(just east of Manchester) 905.985.2672
Family
Recipes
Candied Bacon Peanut Brittle
A culinary twist on a classic recipe. The saltiness of the bacon compliments the sweetness of the peanut brittle wonderfully. You’re sure to please any die-hard bacon lovers. 10 slices Thick Cut Bacon 1/3 cup Brown Sugar 3 cups Sugar ¾ cup Corn Syrup ¾ cup Water
3 tbsp 2 cups 1 tsp ¾ tsp
Butter Peanuts Vanilla Baking Soda
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325F. 2. Combine bacon and brown sugar in a mixing bowl. 3. Spread bacon in a single layer onto a baking sheet lined with foil. 4. Place pan of bacon into the oven and bake for 30 minutes, until bacon is crisp. Remove from oven and let cool until able to handle. 5. Cut bacon into small pieces, no larger than a peanut. Set aside. 6. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup and water. 7. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar is
dissolved. Once the mixture begins to boil. Do not stir and let cook until soft-ball stage, approximately 10 minutes. 8. Add butter and continue to cook an additional 10 minutes to hard-crack stage. Remove from heat and add vanilla, baking soda, peanuts and chopped candied bacon. Stir well to combine. 9. Pour onto a greased baking sheet and spread evenly over the pan. 10. L et cool. Break into pieces to serve. Chef Elizabeth Peck is owner of Peckish Catering and a Culinary Instructor. www.peckishcatering.ca
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Quizmas ANSWERS
1. Jacob Marley 2. Bob Cratchit 3. A button 4. 364 5. Parson Brown 6. Our Jesus Christ is born! 7. A jolly happy soul 8. False: It was an Angel that told Mary the news! 9. Mommy! Match the present from page 6 Answer is ‘D’.
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winter season
Keep your spirits warm this
(NC)—As days get shorter and as the temperature drops, it is not uncommon for the winter blues to start settling in. Here are a few ideas to help brighten your mood this winter season and keep your spirits warm: Light up your morning: Difficulty getting up in the morning may be a sign you have a case of the winter blues. To combat this, consider using a light box Spend time with loved ones. The changing of the seasons can sometimes usher in a slump in the mood. Lack of sunlight, snow, ice and more snow may have you feeling tired and irritable. The best way to lift your spirits is to stay social and spend time with family and friends. Don’t let winter’s grey skies and cold temperatures keep you holed up at home alone. Be sure to get out and get some fresh air and enjoy outdoor winter activities like skiing, tobogganing and skating with your nearest and dearest. Food for the soul. People say music is food for the soul. Whether you’re battling snowy roads in your car, working away at the office or spending some down time at home, keep yourself in good spirits with some favourite tunes or a good laugh. A great way to keep your options open is satellite radio. SiriusXM offers commercial-free listening and has something to suit everyone’s musical tastes – pop, rock, country, electronic, dance, jazz and classical. There is also special programming during the holiday season along with sports, news, talk and comedy to help you get into the festive spirit. More information is available at www. siriusxm.ca. Prepare a healthy home-cooked meal. We have a tendency to eat more during the colder months, whether celebrating or simply gathering with friends and family at a favourite restaurant. Instead of visiting a favourite greasy spoon again, try cooking a healthy meal at home for your family. There is something comforting in preparing and eating a home cooked meal and sometimes, there’s nothing like good conversation over a good banquet at the dinner table to bring loved ones together.
Port Perry Dental Centre Wishes Everyone a Merry Christmas!
Don’t forget to brush this holiday season!
PORT PERRY DENTAL CENTRE 238 Queen St., Downtown Port Perry 905.985.8451 www.iluvmydentist.com
From Our Family To Yours...
Wishing You A Safe & Happy Holiday Season!
Christine & Terry Vos
1893 Scugog St., Port Perry
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Open Monday - Saturday 7am until 10pm; Sunday 8am until 8pm