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Mailed to your door, 8 times a year
Celebrating the Spirit of the Season with kindness, new life, tradition and joy. What does the Holiday season mean to you!? What does the New Year look like for you?
I was watching a movie the other day with my son AlexAmerican Underdog - Kurt Warner Story - and there was a part in the movie where he was cut from one of the most life changing moments of his life - an opportunity to play professional football. He was cut on DAY ONE. Cut because he wasn’t prepared. Let go from the team because he hadn’t focused on the things he needed to be 1000% ready for this opportunity. It got me thinking : how much time do we spend focusing on the things we want, but not DOING the things that will prepare us for it. Are we putting more effort into complaining why don't have something than doing the ACTIONS that will get us where we want to be? Kurt Warner got his chance at professional football, by putting the time and commitment into making his dream happen. My wish for you this season is when the “stinkin thinkin” takes up more head space than the “kick ass and take names thinkin”, take a deep breath and write down two things you can do within a few minutes and within a few days - then DO THEM. Refocus, be fierce with your gratitude and manifest what you want instead of giving the “time of day to the devil”.
I wish you all a humble, peaceful holiday season and an abundant year ahead. For right now - enjoy some fun events right here in Apsley: Holiday Hop Dec 6: a unique shopping experience where local businesses stay open late for all your gift giving needs. Jingle and Mingle Dec 7 (a co-fundraiser with Community Care and Apsley Minor Hockey), a rocking Christmas Party at Woody’s Dec 20 (before they close until Feb), Knights Junior C Hockey games and weekly events through the ABC Seniors and the Legion - never a dull moment here in the Sticks. Save the date: Lions Winter Carnival is January 25th!
You’ll start to see some changes within the magazine as well, check out our new full month calendar that will replace the dates and weekly listings - it's a work in progress so please reach out via phone or email with any suggestions you may have. Remember, with no magazine in January and February - you can always dust off some old Backroads Magazines or go online to have access to all of 2024! Our Social Media pages will be more active in January and February so be sure to follow both The Apsley Backroads Facebook and Instagram. See you again in March.
Fall Prevention Exercise Class 10-11am NKCC
Darts
6:30pm, LEGION
Pickle Ball ($2)
6 to 9pm NKCC (not Stat Holidays)
Fall Prevention
Exercise Class
10-11am NKCC
Darts
6:30pm, LEGION
Pickle Ball ($2)
6 to 9pm NKCC (not Stat Holidays)
Fall Prevention
Exercise Class 10-11am NKCC
Darts
6:30pm, LEGION
Pickle Ball ($2) 6 to 9pm NKCC (not Stat Holidays)
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE 6PM Apsley Community Chapel 299 McFadden Rd
Music Jam Session POT LUCK
Happy NewYear! 6:00pm, LEGION
Playgroup 0-6yrs 10am-12pm NKCC
Pickle Ball ($2) 6pm to 9pm NKCC 1st, 3rd, 5thThurs
Playgroup 0-6yrs 10am-12pm NKCC
Pickle Ball ($2) 6pm to 9pm NKCC 1st, 3rd, 5thThurs
Duplicate Bridge 1 to 4pm NKCC
Music Jam Session 4pm, LEGION
HOLIDAYHOP 4pm to 7pm AFun Shopping Night inApsley
Duplicate Bridge 1 to 4pm NKCC
Music Jam Session 4pm, LEGION
Last day to donate to the TOYDRIVE see NK Township Website for details
JINGLE and MINGLE Fundraiser for Community Care andApsley Minor Hockey 6:00pm $85/person
C Hockey NKCC 7:25pm
Playgroup 0-6yrs 10am-12pm NKCC
ABC Seniors programming is on break from Dec 18 to Jan 7
Music Jam Session 4pm, LEGION
CHRISTMAS PARTY @ Woodys Live Music, Specials 328 Burleigh St KNIGHTS GAME Junior C Hockey NKCC 7:25pm
Music Jam Session 4pm, LEGION
AROUND the RINK
By Helena McMann, AMHA Board Secretary
A Flames U11 home game vs Douro, Nov 2nd. Credit: www.newtownphotography.com
Hockey,Ska ngandEventsareinfullswingattheNKCC! Thereisalwayssomethingtowatchmostday/nightsoftheweek. TheConcessionstandhasdelicioussnacksandwarmdrinks. Fans, young and old bundle up to come cheer on their favourite hockey stars!Well...someweeones,mightjustcomeforthetreats:) ConsiderbookingyournexteventattheNKCommunityCentre!
HOME GAMES
DECEMBER
14th vs Port Hope 21st vs Lakeeld
JANUARY
10th vs Lakeeld
11th vs Trent Hills
FEBRUARY 1st vs Amherstview
8th vs Napanee 15th vs Port Hope
7:25pm
New Display Screen at the Rink
U18's Ready to Play
Young Fans Snackin’ in the Stands
Apsley School Breakfast Program needs Volunteers
By Denise Dunford and Helena McMann
Special Volunteer: Denise Dunford
I recently heard that the Apsley Central Public School’s Breakfast Program has been on hold since the end of the last school year (June 2024) This is due to LACK of volunteers. It was also shared with me that a very special volunteer, should be recognized: Denise Dunford. Denise has dedicated her time religiously to not only the Breakfast Club, but many other organizations and events here in Apsley! I know Denise personally, as our sons play Hockey together. She is kind, incredibly hard working, an amazing mother and the best “hug giver” ever! I asked if she wouldn’t mind, sharing her experience with the Breakfast Program - in hopes of shedding light to the fact that without volunteers - this ESSENTIAL program CAN’T run and many kids are unable to start there day with a smile and full belly! Even ONE morning a week, from a few people can get this Program back up and running.
Denise: I started doing the breakfast program in 2009. There was another main coordinator at the time. I started off 1 morning a week and slowly started going in more to do baking/prepping for the next day. I had 2 children in the school when I started and so did the other person and we both had 1 child not in school yet who enjoyed playing together. Our boys liked to help in the kitchen baking and learning! The biggest challenge is trying to get and keep the volunteers!! When she left the programme for personal reasons, I was very thankful for another dedicated mom, that stepped up and did all the behind the scenes stuff: ordering of food and getting the different grants from different organizations, etc. When her child graduated she also left and that was when COVID hit and no one was allowed in the school. When we were allowed back in, the principal was still doing the online ordering of the food and applying for the grants. I was going to Peterborough to get all the groceries from the food share and the grocery store. My favourite times were just seeing the children's faces light up when they come in and see all the food on the table. It's really cute when the little ones want to help serve and they can't even see over the table! That and doing the special occasion meals, like pink cream cheese on bagels for Valentines day and the pancakes in heart shapes. It was nice to hear from some of the teachers that I was helping the students to focus in class for they had a full tummy!! I wish I could still be there but since it was all volunteer, my family needed this Momma to do something that would help me pay the bills! When I see some of the children in the hall of the school or out in the community they ask why there is no breakfast any more. I feel bad, but I've done it for so long that someone else needs to step up and help get it going!! Honestly, just a few people committing to a few hours a week can get our kids the breakfasts they need to start their day off right!
TIS THE REASON
by Roy Anderson
The people of a once proud country, thru a honest mistake of Democracy, were now suffering on all fronts. The belief was that taxes and high interest rates was the overseer created dirty hard times.
But was the answer to all situations not to mention. The criminal activity that seemed to go unpunished. And so it began.
The fall usually a time of harvest, damp and cold, the only saviour being the food banks. Even then they operated from the generosity or better spoken the compassion of fellow man.
The world was in dire straights, wars on two fronts, many churches empty. Pandemics rising then subsiding. Violence on fellow men and women, and the most vulnerable the homeless being in tent cities. Yes the whole matter seemed hopeless.
After the passing of Halloween, the excitement of the holiday season of Christmas started slow and then grew in time as television and the radio presented the population with great advertisements and the Christmas season began.
In a mid size city somewhere a Mother and young child, a girl seven years old, rode the bus going to the mall when the young child asked her Mother, just as they passed a tent city. "Mom does Santa ever visit the people living there?"
The Mother of course was very uncomfortable with the question, as it was asked in front of the other passengers. "Oh yes dear." The Mother answered. "They all go to a large centre for food and gifts."
"That is not the same, you know Mother." after a silence "As having a Christmas tree and gifts in your own home."
The Mother now embarrassed at the child's answer, replied, "Cerese the people in the streets and tents are well looked after."
Cerese started to speak up, but as she was about to, her Mother with a Mother's glare and with "no" formed on her lips, Cerese remained silent.
"Cerese, your health problems are created by stress, think happy thoughts about everything, especially this Christmas time of year."
The bus stopped and started to allow people on and off, then as it crawled along in heavy traffic. Our Cerese remained silent, deep in thought about the problem she had discussed with her Mother, the bus slowed and then stopped to let on passengers. Cerese sitting next to the window surveyed the surrounding area, when her gaze locked on the face of an old man sitting on the bench at the bus stop.
As Cerese and the old man's eyes locked a slight smile formed on the man's face and his right warm raised upwards and a great wave formed in his hand. Cerese her
eyes locked onto his, and she returned the wave along with a smile.
At this point Cerese's Mother finished her chat with a fellow passenger, just in time to observe Cerese's actions with the old man.
As we all knew as parents right after the birth of a child, we automatically inherit trigger brain. Trigger brain is the reaction to a situation or occurrence that threatens a child. Humans of course do not have a firearm to fire off, so the mouth is the substitute.
In this instant, Cerese's Mother in a voice that was more like the noise of a wounded wildcat. "Cerese, what did I tell you about talking to strangers? Do you never learn?"
Now Cerese with the well practiced look, the one with the puppy dog eyes, and the occasionally blink, doing nothing else, stared at her Mother, of course with eyes watering a bit, the effects of trigger brain, where shut down.
Cerese Mother began to continue in a subdued voice, before the first word Cerese spoke, "You must know Mother," and with a blink of her blue eyes, "I am in a bus, and he is on a bench. What could possibly happen?"
Cerese's Mother embarrassed and subdued a bit looked at the fellow passenger on the opposite seat and stated. "It's this time of the year, you know. The hustle and bustle, the stress of the holiday," then with a roll of her eyes and a tilt of her head, "the expense."
The fellow passenger who by the way was also female responded, "honestly Madge, I don't know how you do it, being a single mother with a young child, suffering aliments, especially accute asthma.
On the answer of the fellow passenger, Ceresa's Mother nodded yes. The bus driver growing tired of the bickering turned up the volume of the bus radio. The entire bus was treated to a loud but very lively Christmas Carol of Jingle Bells. The bus continued to the mall.
The city where Cerese and her Mother resided, started out as a village and then a town and now a city. In previous years the village had a rive on its outskirts, the village Fathers rather than cater to the enviroments allowed development consisting of tourist rental cabins, boat rentals and other buildings suitable for Holidayers.
In the years as the village developed to a town and then a city the river shorline developed, well it then (gasp) a major developer revealed plans. A super mall would be build along the river, rip rap the banks, a natural area, then a two city block long of buildings and of course much of the heritage being as possible in the centre would be alive with the pavement exiting to a patio, then the patio would extend to the river with steps to the water edge. The bus that Cerese, and her Mother rode would bring them to the mall. When Cerese, and her Mother arrived at the mall all previous discussion between Mom and child were forgotten.
The extravageant of the mall decorated for Christmas and to some devout Christians to pay money from the grasp of the wallet. On this Saturday afternoon the mall was wall to wall shoppers. Christmas and Holiday decorations thro out the stores. The atmosphere was welcoming. Cerese and her Mother were soon drawn into the scene, pushing and shoving, shopping to read their list of gifts.
Lunch time soon rolled around so the pair headed to the food court and when they arrived, the area was filled capacity. Cerese's Mother notice a seating area next to the patio so she took Cerese and the gifts there. Cerese and the gifts were settled at a table for four, with the orders "do not leave this table or chairs for any reason. I'll go back to the food court line up and return as quick as possible with some lunch." Cerese was left sitting at a space with room for four. The patrons leaving the food court passed by the area where Cerese was sitting looking for a place to sit and eat. The scowls and under breath muttering caught the attention of the mall Security Guard who approached Cerese. "Miss," the guard addressed her, "You cannot sit in a spot for four people with your presents." Cerese replied to the guard, "My Mother is getting food and will be here shortly."
8
"Then," the guard answered Cerese. "At that time you and your Mother can find another place to sit. This one will be filled by someone else." The guard reached to remove the presents from the chair and at the same time told Cerese in a hard voice "Move."
The area around Cerese and the guard was quite when the voice spoke, "you sir, will leave the child alone."
The guard wheeled about to confront the intruder when he looked straight into the eyes of a old man. The guard stepped back a step or two and was about to display his authority when he hesitated. The guard was caught by surprise by the look on his confronters appearnce. He was dressed in a heavy brown overcoat, but the most disconcerning was the old man's eyes. The eyes were deep in colour, almost a violet blue, but unusual because they shimmered and reflected the Christmas lights. The hair inside the hood of the heavy garment was a flourescent silver, causcading down over his nect and shoulders, and spilling out the front of his heavy overcoat. The old man's voice was heavey and penitrated as he spoke. "I will sit with the child and rest, till her Mother returns." On those words the guard just nodded in agreement and left. The old man cleared the presents from a chair and sat down.
After a moment or two of silence Cerese spoke, "thankyou sir, but my Mother will not be happy, seeing me sitting with a stranger."
The old man just smiled and he replied. "we will deal with that later." Then looking around, then he spoke to Cerese, "this is quite a party, is it not young lady., with the gifts and the lights and the music. Do you know the reason for all this?"
"No" Cerese replied.
Then the old man asked, "would you like to know?"
Cerese nodded yes and the old man began.
"Many years ago a babe was born in a manger, the babe was called JESUS. Three wise men had travelled afar, following the North Star, until the North Star shone on his crib. They presented him with gifts. The Christmas lights are the symbol of the north star. The gifts are the replica of the wise men's gifts to the babe. This child's father knew the sacrifice his son would make. He also knew that mankind would forget his deed so he instilled in mankind that on December 25, they would celebrate his birthday, and thus the reason for the season is the birth of JESUS CHRIST. You know Cerese," the old man knew her name and spoke it for the first time. "Mankind has turned from the Christian teaching and now bathing in the sewer water of the devil."
Cerese now sat quiet and was about to speak when the calm that occured during the old man's speech, when a schrill voice of her Mother shattered the calm.
"Cerese, get away from that man," and without taking another breath, "and you sir, you followed us after the child waved to you."
The old man showed no emotion but just glared at the mother. Cerese's Mother was about to continue when a shallow weak voice spoke "Mother," before Cerese's Mother could continue, a female voice filled with alarm shouted, "the child cannot breathe."
Cerese's Mother turned looking in horror saw her child, pale and fighting for her breath. Then to everyone’s horror, silence from Cerese. The guard had called for EMS, but on arrival they could only deliver sad news. Cerese had passed. The crowd that had formed, now crying in sadness at the lost of a child.
Cerese's Mother now kneeling with her child's head in her lap, along with the crowd notice a strange light form over the area and glancing upward saw a transformation taking place. The old man was slowly rising from his seat. As he did the hood from that cover his head fell away and while doing so turned pure white. The hair on the old man's head was silver along with a full beard matching his hair. The old garment of dark brown now at the touch of the hood turned to a flowing white robe.
The old man made his way to Cerese and her Mother kneeling beside them and at the same time spreading the robes, covering them, leaving only their heads and faces exposed. The old man spoke, "Fear me not, Mother and child, as I have given you birth in the womb, I shall now give you life in death."
The old man laid his hand on Cerese's head speaking "IN THE POWER OF RESURRECTION THIS LIFE SHALL RETURN." On those words his hand formed a cross on Cerese's forehead, and then the old man rose , the robes slipped away from Mother and child. Cerese gasped a small breath and then looked around, and spoke asking a question. "Did I fall asleep Mother?"
Cerese's Mother and the crowd exclaimed in disbelief. While the happening was taking place they had failed to notice the waters of the river had stilled. Sitting on its surface was a sleigh pulsing if it was formed from cystals. In front of the sleigh was a team of eight horse and the lone occupant was a angel holding the reins. The old man walked thru the crowds onto the river, entering into the sleight.
As the old man seated himself, the night slowly turned to normal. As the sleigh disappeared, the song on the speaker system of the mall played "SILENT NIGHT, HOLY NIGHT."
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR
ENJOY THE SEASON WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND SAFE TRAVELS
Roy and Linda Anderson
Jokes of the Month
by Alex McMann
A Gingerbread Man went to the Doctor’s complaining of a sore knee. The doctor asked him, “Have you tried icing it?”
What do you get when you combine a Christmas tree with an iPad?
A pineapple
Santa saw your Instagram pictures... ...and you’re getting clothes and a bible for Christmas
What did one skier say to the other?
“Alpine for you when you’re gone.”
LIONS COMMUNITY REPORT
by Jim Empringham Apsley and District Lions Club
As 2024 draws to a close and 2025 begins, the Lions Club is making plans for ac vi es and service to our community. We are also reflec ng on our efforts through this past year to support the growthandenergyofthoseinourarea.
The revitaliza on of Lions Park has taken big steps this year. The new so ball screen and dugouts were ready for young and old this spring adding to the fun and safety of those taking part. The parking lot was completed and has alreadyseenalotofuse.Signshavebeen added at the entrances to the parking lot.
Nancy Mandley
Real Estate Broker
Direct: 705-740-4912
rmandley@cbelectricrealty.ca
215 George St N Peterborough
Office: 705-243-9000 ext 2107
We are doing our best to update the Park to be er meet the needs of all. The ac ons taken to date are a reflec on of the community survey done 5 years ago. It is our hope that the Park will become more of a hub for a range of ac vi es including sports, family ac vi es, walking and more pedestrian things like picnics Individuals, groups and businesses may wish to consider dona ons or memorial contribu ons to create a real sense of shared ownership. In the spring we hope to publish a list of ideas to help this concept proceed. None of the Park revitaliza on could happen without the support we receive for our fundraising efforts. In just a few years, much has been put in place and in a few more we know the Park will be a des na on for both seasonal and permanent residents Thank you to everyone!
Monthly Euchre has become a popular
event with approximately 30 par cipa ng each night. The last night was in November. Euchre nights will not be held in the winter months and will resume in the spring. Thanks to everyone who has made this fun night such asuccess.
Our partnership with Apsley Central PS has con nued to grow includingsupportforpurchasing resources and providing learning experiences for the students. We are blessed to have outstanding leadership and amazing teachers at our school Our students benefit from quality instruc on and up-to-date resources The posi ve environment our children have to learn in is not something every community enjoys.
We have con nued to support Community Care and the Food Bank through dona ons of moneyandfood.
The annual Lions Winter Carnival is scheduled for Saturday, January 25 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the NKCC. There will be food and games for kids in the Community Hall. This event is occurring in partnership with Apsley Minor Hockey who will be running a tournament on that day. The Lions Club pays the ice me for the tournament. A good me will be had for all. Comeouttothisfamilyfunday Servicetoourcommunityismost fulfilling We encourage all to consider either helping as a v o l u n te e r a t a ny o f o u r community ac vi es or to join us as a member Speak to a Lion either at an ac vity or if you see one of us in town. Together we can make a difference in our community
We h o p e a l l h ave h a d a wonderful 2024 and wish everyoneallthebestin2025.
POETRY CORNER
PINK SKY
Pink sky
Pure snow
Fluffy white crystals
Blanket the ground
Silence reigns
All around
During this time Of rebirth
If only this peace
Could cover the Earth
~Kathy Figueroa
“Pink Sky” was first published on February 3, 2011, in The Bancroft Times newspaper.
ABOUT POETRY
These days, pretty much anything goes
From measured meter to freeform prose From haiku, odes, or tossed “word salads”
To precisely presented ballads
Like crickets chirp, wolves howl, and birds sing
To express one’s self is the main thing
So share your thoughts, let the words ring true
We learn from each other’s points of view
~Kathy Figueroa
April 4, 2022
CLOSED Monday to Wednesday
OPEN Thursday/Friday 7:00am - 4:30pm OPEN Saturday/Sunday 8:00am - 4:30pm
WOMEN OF NORTH KAWARTHA
by Helena McMann
The driving force and inspiration behind some of the most successful businesses’s, events and important roles, right here in our community. This column, launched March 2024, will feature one or more women, their stories and how they contribute to the very essence of why we Honourandacknowledge InternationalWomen’sDay.
CAROLYNAMYOTTE
Mayor of North Kawartha Township
For the final column of the Women in North Kawartha feature, I am happy to share the conversa on I had with our very own Mayor, Carolyn Amyo e. What a honour to spend mege ngtoknowherbothprofessionallyandpersonally Carolyn’s adventures began as a student at Fleming - she had sights on heading West, but a connec on she had with Jim Whalen (who was Deputy Reeve at the me) and a job opportunity as Student Sep c Inspector came across her path and she jumped at it. She already had a job lined up in Eco Tourism, but a summer in co age country sounded more appealing. It was then, that she met her future husband Jeff. His Family had a Marina on Eels Lake...she “inspected his sep c and was impressed with his “sh@*t” andtherestishistory...
The second summer, Carolyn didn’t do the Inspec on job, butkeptintouchwithJim.Talkstartedaboutherrunningfor council, she did and her career began in 2003 as Councillor for Burliegh-Anstruther Ward 2. She is now serving her 7th term(2ndasMayor)
She was the only female on council for many years. It was gi and a struggle to rise in a male dominated environment (while star ng her family and having a family business) and she was very grateful for the mentorship and support from both the council’s “boys club” and the women on the administra vesideofthetownship.
When asking Carolyn about some of her career accomplishments-afewthingsresonatedwithme... Her gra tude for the longstanding members that have given hertheopportunitytogrowandhaveledthewaywithgrant funding and abili es to rebuild and replace the infrastructure of this incredible town: eg the Arena, Library, School.Ittakesavillage!
Second, her humility and mindfullness in seeing the bigger pictureofherresponsibilityasMayor.
Se ng an example for other communi es, being a leader and knowing when to listen and learn from both other townshipsandthecommunitytheyserve.
“Change happens within a community, some mes by design/beau fica on, some mes by tragedy (Kemps,
Sayers, etc). We don't want that to be the way we grow and c h a n g e , b u t i t h a p p e n s some mes, and great things can comefromit”
Naviga ngthroughCovidandthe Pandemic, was something everyone in leadership had no choice but to jump right into. Legisla on needed to change to allow mee ngs and decisions to be made virtually This also
i d e o pla ormsforcommunica on.It’s a two way street and as much as they offer a variety of ways for the community to engage, video became quite effec ve. Carolyn also shared “while other mayors were telling co agers to stay home, we wanted to welcome them and pull together as a community safely” “I have to govern for everyone, regardless of whether they voted or not, and have to make decisions in the best interests of people. What is mo va ng for me, what is best for NorthKawarthaasawhole,iswhatIhavetodowithhonorableinten on” Over the years (even before running for Mayor), there were mes she ques oned if she should con nue. The challenges have actually became the driving force for her to be able to find new ways of bringing this community together and impress change. North Kawartha has experienced a great divide over the years and she is proud of always havingthegoalinmindtobridgethatgap.
We also cha ed about how things take me to change...things like Rebranding and the revitaliza on of Riverview Park - both projects began as avisionalmost20yearsago!Therearemanythings“ontheburner”atany given me...some get moved to the back burner, some get moved to the front...so many things to consider and priori ze. It’s mo va ng to be a part of something you can see through from start to finish - or at least lay the ground work, so the next genera on can con nue the vision. There will be mes that you can’t change things - requests come at her from all sides and they, as a whole council, try to balance honouring the bylaws that are already in place with iden fying things that NEED to change. Great example...the Comprehensive Zoning By Law commi eecomposed of Public Appointees, Staff and Council Members, with a goal of “re-wri ng the book”...to grow with the mes and needs of the “Bread andBu er”ofourcommunity TradesandBuilding. What’snext?! Despite being approached by other par es to run federally -herheartandpassioniswithNorthKawarthaandMunicipalpoli cs.Less conflict and a be er opportunity to connect with community members. She feels very fortunate to be able to work where they live. Eels Lake Co age and Marina, has seen many changes over the years and they have since diversified and added the Dock business. We live in a seasonal community and she is always inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of everyone that lives and works here: “why do you think we do the KawarthaDirectoryeveryyear?Businessesandpeoplekeepchanging!” I love when she shared “it takes both opportunity and diversity to grow and learn from. It takes great things and hard things to define who you are”
Carolyn, her husband Jeff Ball and their two daughters. In addi on to being Mayor, they run Eels Lake Co ages & Marina and Kawartha Docks.
She also men oned that she’s raising her girls to “have a voice”. When reflec ng on Women in Poli cs, “despite making magnificent strides on every level of government, women are s ll very much taking the brunt of conflict,abuseandchallenges”
“When I think about my role as Mayor - I’m not a woman on a power trip, I am part of a community and this is a way I can serve my community. I have a vested interest in seeing it thrive and I would encourage anyone with passiontomakechangetogetinvolved”
ThankyouCarolynforyour meandIcouldthinkofnobe erwaytowrapup a year of celebra ng Women in North Kawartha than to have you featured asaninfluen alpartofthat.
Ride program is in effect to catch impaired drivers
I say change it to side and we’ll have more survivors
Christmas is coming and children are full of joy
Hoping they will get some more new toys
There were many presents there under the tree
But if times get hard not one there will be
Children will skate and play in the snow
As we done the same back many years ago
There isn’t much sun in December it will be back soon
Yes there will be more of it before we hit June
Others will ice fish if there is enough on the lake
And as they go home may the limit is all they take
Since its cooler out we’ll all spend more time indoors
So isn’t it a good time to do those put off chores
Christmas is the time we have a big celebration
But isn’t it Christ’s birthday were to celebrate in our nation
THOUGHTS From GAYLE
Gayle Davis, Freelance
HO HO HO!
It’s Christmas!
Traditions Rooted in the Past Still Bring Joy Today
Christmas in Canada, marking the birth of Jesus for Chris ans, is celebrated todayinavarietyofways.Theearliestcontribu onsweretakenfromBri sh, French, and American tradi ons. The actual date of Christ’s birth con nues to be hotly disputed; however, when the Christmas season rolls around in December,everyoneisreadytocelebrate.
One of the most iconic tradi ons is the Christmas tree, a firmly established symbol of the fes ve season. With its origins in paganism, it became and remainsthecentrepieceforChristmasinhomesaroundtheworld.
TheChristmastreetradi onbeganinEurope.Thetreesweredecoratedwith candles, fruits, and berries. The candles represented the light that Christ broughtintotheworldwithhisarrival.
Today all manner of decora ons are used on both real and ar ficial trees as families put their unique stamp on the fes vi es. Another Canadian and worldwidetradi onandonethatthrillstheli leonesisSantaClaus.
Santa’s predecessor was Saint Nicholas, an early Chris an bishop who lived in the fourth century Turkiye and was known for his acts of charity. In the 1700s, when the Dutch brought their tradi ons to America, Saint Nicholas came to be known as Sante Klass or Sinterklaas, which then evolved into Santa Claus, an anglicized version of the Dutch name. Santa was the jolly elfin figure with “a li le round belly that shook when he laughed like a bowlful of jelly.” With a permanent smile on his face and laughter on his lips along with his legendary generosity, Santa Claus soon became a favourite of childreneverywhere.
Decora ons play a huge role in making things ‘merry and bright’ Many ChristmastableswouldnotbecompletewithoutaChristmascrackerateach place se ng. Origina ng in England in the 1840s, the first Christmas crackers were inspired by the French bonbon, which was a sugared almond wrapped in ssue paper twisted at both ends. Thomas Smith, an English confec oner,hadseenthebonbons onatriptoFranceandcameupwiththe idea of the Christmas cracker Smith perfected his crea on by replacing the almond with ny trinkets to which he added a riddle or joke. Today’s Christmascrackersmirrortheoriginalsbutalsocontainahatwhichcan be worn at the Christmas meal. In 1860, the cracker was redesigned, and a device was added which would make it pop when both ends of the cracker were pulled. This made the cracker hugely popular. Today’s Christmas crackersfollowthistradi on.
Not specifically a Canadian tradi on, the giving of gi s at Christmas me is a highlight of celebra ons around the world. Gi giving is thought to have originated at the winter sols ce in ancient Rome at the fes val of Saturnalia which honoured the Roman god, Saturn. Later, Chris ans adopted the prac ce, linking gi giving to the three Wise Men who visited Jesus and brought him precious gi s of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to honour Him. Today, it is also a way of showing love, as well as saying thank you to family, friends, and colleagues. What could be be er than watching a loved one open a special gi - one of the most precious facets of Christmas celebra onseachyear
There is a familiarity and a comfort that comes with tradi ons in our lives. I am sure that each one of you has a special tradi on that makes your Christmas unique and special. As you celebrate with loved ones at this wondrous me of the year, I wish you and yours hear elt joy and happiness. MaythepeaceofChristmascon nuewithyouthroughouttheNewYear. MerryChristmastoall!
GIFT TAGS TO USE FOR THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Best
of Sweet & Savoury This Holiday
This month’s recipe contributions come from Friends and Family, sharing their trusted Holiday favourites
Glazed Carrots
I
ngredients
2 lb carrots , peeled
1/4 cup (40g) brown sugar, loosely packed
2 garlic cloves , minced
2 tbsp butter (30g) , melted (or olive oil)
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Parsley , for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425F .
Gingerbread
TheLibraryGingerbreadHouserecipe!
Ingredients
11/2CCrisco 2CWhiteSugar
2eggs 1/2CMolasses
4CSi edFlour
Cut carrot on the diagonal into 4cm / 1.75” lengths. Halve thicker end so they are all roughly same width. Toss in a bowl with sugar, butter, garlic, oil, salt and pepper. Pour onto tray, spread out.
Roast 15 minutes. Toss, then roast a further 10 minutes until soft and caramelised on the edges with plenty of glaze left on the tray. Toss carrots in the glaze, sprinkle with parsley if using. Serve warm.
by Maryn McMann
Apple Breakfast Cake
Ingredients
2packagesCinnamonrollswithicing
4Eggs
1/2CMilk
1tbspcinnamon
1tspvanilla
2tbspbu er
2GrannySmithapplespeeledandchopped
1Cuppackedbrownsugar
Direc ons
Separate cinnamon rolls and cut each into 9 pieces and set aside
Inabowlmixeggs,milk,cinnamon,vanillaun lsmooth
In a pan melt bu er add sugar and chopped apple cook ll caramelizedabout10minutesremovefromheat
Spreadthecinnamonrollsina9x9 or8x8pan
Pour the egg mixture on top followed by the apples bake 2025minutesun lgoldenbrown.Topwiththeicingenjoy
I assemble this the night before and bake it Christmas morning
Contributed by Denise Dunford
2tspeach:BakingSoda,Cinnamon,Cloves,Gingertoflour Direc ons
Cream Crisco, add sugar, then beat in eggs. Mix well, then add Molasses. Add Flour/Spice mixture. S r just un l combined.Divideinto2balls.Chillovernight. Rolloutintowhatevercookieshapes350degrees. 8-10minlargecookies-lessforsmallercookies
Contributed by Kim Tucker, from her Mother in Law, Elaine Welch
Winter Salad
Ingredients
(For the Salad)
6 oz. shredded kale
1/2 small lemon, juiced
1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, 6 oz. shredded vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots
2 medium apples, cored and diced
4 oz. crumbled goat cheese
1 1/2 c. roasted butternut squash
(For the Dressing)
1/2 c. red wine vinegar
4 tsp. pure maple syrup
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
Directions
1 1/2 C candied pecans
1/2 C pomegranate arils
4 tsp. dijon mustard
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 C olive oil
Place the shredded kale in a very large salad bowl. Add the lemon juice and oil. Use your hands to massage the lemon juice and oil into the greens, about a minute or so. The greens should wilt slightly and take on a deep green color. Add the other shredded vegetables to the bowl as well as the chopped apple. Make the dressing by combining all of the dressing ingredients in a mason jar. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds and then pour it over the salad. Toss well to combine.
Add pecans, goat cheese, squash, pomegranate arils on top. Tip: To make roasted butternut squash, dice the squash into 1/2inch pieces and place on a small baking sheet. Toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch or two of kosher salt. Roast at 425ºF until browned and soft, about 15 to 20 minutes
Inspired by JJ Wyllie and Kara Koteles
Inspired
Turkey Gravy
Ingredients
Turkey Giblets and Drippings
Chicken/Turkey Stock
(3 c, depending on amount of Drippings)
1/2 finely chopped onion
1/2 C Bu er
1/2 C Flour
1 tsp each of Sage, Thyme, salt/pepper to taste
White wine (splash)
Direc ons
Make a stock with the neck and giblets from the Turkey - cover in water and simmer an hour with salt/pepper/onion. Set aside. Make your Turkey as directed (add enough water 4 cups approx) in the pan for bas ng and to get A LOT of drippings.
In large pan or pot, melt Bu er, add Sage and Thyme, s r for 1 min, then add 1/2 c Flour - we’re making a roux. Cook for a min, then start adding drippings and stock - add a cup at a me s rring and cooking un l thickened. If it’s too thin......s r 3 tbsp flour into 1/2 c Stock and add to gravy, cook un l thickened up. Don't forget all the good stuff from the bo om of the Turkey Pan, you can even add the turkey neck meat, onions, etc. Salt and pepper to taste.
Alterna vely, you can add a package or two of gravy mix to thicken it up.
Contributed by Helena McMann inspired by her Aunt Terri & Babchi
Stuffing with Sausage
Ingredients
1(11/2-lb.)loafwhitesandwichbread
1(12-oz.)loafFrenchbread
1lb.breakfastsausage,cooked,crumbled,1/2c.saltedbu er
4c.chickenorturkeybroth,1/4c.choppedfreshparsley 1Tbsp.choppedfreshsage,1tsp.groundthyme,Cookingspray Direc ons
Preheat the oven to 300°F. Cut all the bread into 3/4-inch cubes. Divide the bread between two baking sheets. Toast the bread in the oven un l evenly dry, 35 to 40 minutes, s rring every 10 minutes. Allow to cool completely. Place the dry bread cubes in a verylargebowl.Increasetheoventemperatureto375°F. Melt the bu er over medium heat un l foaming. Add the onion, celery, garlic, salt, and pepper and cook un l translucent, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the wine and cook un l it is reduced by about half, 2 to3minutes.Addthebroth,parsley,sage,andthyme,ands r. Slowly ladle the broth mixture onto the bread cubes, tossing the mixturefrequentlyforevencoverage.Tasteforsalt. Spray a large casserole pan with cooking spray Spoon the dressing into the prepared casserole pan and/or the turkey cavity. Bake the casserolefor20to30minutesun lgoldenandcrispontop.
Creamiest Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
4lb.YukonGoldpotatoes,scrubbed
1½cupswholemilk,½cupheavycream
1headofgarlic,halvedcrosswise,3sprigsrosemary
1cup(2s cks)unsaltedbu er,roomtemp,cutintopieces
Freshlygroundblackpepper,4tspsalt,plusmore
Apotatoricerorfoodmillfi edwithfinedisk
Prepara on
Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water Add a large handful of kosher salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer un l potatoes are very tender but not crumbly, 30–35 minutes. Drain, briefly rinse with cool water to remove any excess starch, and return potatoes to warm pot (off heat) to dry while you heat themilkmixture.
Warm milk and cream, garlic, rosemary in a small saucepan un l fragrant,about5minutes.Removepanfromheat
Pass hot potatoes through ricer or food mill into a large bowl (cold potatoes will become gummy). Add bu er, salt and s r un l bu er is completely incorporated. Strain warm milk mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring glass. Pour into potatoes½-cupfulata me,s rringa ereachaddi onun lliquid is fully incorporated and mixture is smooth before adding more.Serve mashed potatoes topped with a few grinds of freshly groundblackpepper.
Millionaire’s Ham
Ingredients
One8-to-10-poundbone-infully-cookedham 31/2cupspackedlightbrownsugar 13/4cupsorangejuice,1tspcayennepepper Koshersaltandfreshlygroundblackpepper Direc ons
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F Line the bo om and the rack of a roas ngpanwithfoil.Placetherackinsidetheroas ngpan.
With the fa y side facing down, use a sharp knife to cut 3/4-inch long diagonallinesabout1-inchdeepalloverthesurfaceoftheham.Working in the opposite direc on, cut more 3/4-inch long and 1-inch deep diagonal lines to create diamond shapes. Turn the ham over so the fa y side is facing up. Create the same diamond shape placing any pieces of ham that fall off back onto the ham. Place the ham, fa y-side up, on the rackandcook,rota ngthepanhalfwaythrough,un lwarminthecenter andthefatstartstocrispup,about2hours.
Meanwhile, mix 3 cups sugar, 3/4 cup orange juice, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 tbsp salt and 1 tsp pepper in a bowl. Remove the ham from oven, brush one-third of the glaze over ham. Bake for 20 minutes. Brush with another third of the glaze and bake for 20 minutes more. Brush the remaining third of the glaze over the ham and cook un l the glaze is shiny and the skin is dark golden brown and crispy, about 30 minutes more. Mix the remaining 1/2 cup sugar, 1 cup orange juice, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper and a generous amount of pepper in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook, s rring frequently, un l the sugar is dissolved and the sauce has reduced by about half, 7 to 8 mins. Remove ham from oven and let rest for 15 mins. Transfertoacu ngboard.Sliceandservewiththesauceontheside.
SHARED by MARJORIE
By Marjorie Wilson, Freelance
Time of the Great Too Much
“Time of the great too much” was a comment my mother made about Christmas. Why? I am not 100% sure. Was she complaining about the extra work? The extra expenses? Preparing for Christmas started early in the fall. Any homemade gifts would need to be made early. Mother did a lot of knitting - socks, mitts, scarves, sweaters. By November some baking took place such as fruitcake, mincemeat and Christmas pudding.
Christmas also meant concerts at school as well at our church. Mother played the organ or the piano so she participated in those events. My brother, Arthur, and I also participated in those concerts. Art would be asked to sing a solo as he was a soprano, then later on - a tenor. My part in these events included piano solos and various recitations and parts in plays. No doubt mother helped out by listening to us, offering helpful critiques.
I am trying to remember what part my father played in all this. He was working six and one half days a week in an ammunition factory. Since this was essential war work he also worked the night shift. That was two weeks day shift and two weeks night shift. I think he found our Christmas tree but I honestly don’t remember him doing anything else for Christmas. Perhaps mother felt that the whole celebration of Christmas was on her shoulders. I remember it as a very happy and exciting time. Marjorie has shared one of her Mother’s recipes:
Cranberry Salad
Ingredients
1 tbsp gelatine
1/3 cup sugar
1 tbsp cold water
1cup hot, strained, cooked cranberries (canned may be used)
2 tbsp lemon juice
1cup ginger ale
1cup crushed pineapple
1cup diced celery
1/2cup chopped nuts
Directions
Soak gelatine and sugar in cold water. Dissolve in hot cranberry juice. Cool. Add lemon juice and ginger ale. Cool until it begins to thicken. Add remaining ingredients. Pour into individual moulds.
VIEW FROM THE CABIN
by Rick de Haan
A Season of Wonder
Candles were lit and highlighted a display in the window of the general store. A li le boy stood outside with his nose pressed to the glass, eagerly taking in the wondrous sights. Amongst the pies, almond rings, nutcrackers and snow-white co on ba ng was the most amazing thing of all – a li le village with a train track running through it. On the track closest to the window stood a locomo ve with what seemed like countless cars in tow. Willem's eyes were big as saucers, but he knew he mustmakehiswayhomesohewouldn'tbelatefor supper. He pried himself from the store-front window and walked slowly through the village. He couldn'tstopthinkingaboutthatwonderfultrain.
This was the last me he'd have to walkthe long way home from school un l a er New Year's day Earlier, when he'd le the one-room school house, several boys had pelted him with snowballs and teasedhimabouthisoldpatchedcoatandsecondhand boots. The boots that were at least two sizes too big for him. Miss Thompson, his teacher, had come to his aid by telling them to stop and go home, but he s ll felt sad and dejected. Most of the other children had nice coats – at least ones thatweren'tpatchedlikehiswas.Deepinhisheart he knew that Papa could never afford to buy a new coat or new boots. He certainly couldn't buy that train set, so all Willem could do was imagine playingwithit.Hecoulddothat.
A erwalkingthroughthevillage,Willemturned onto an old horse trail that wound its way through towering pines trees. It was almost dark now as he trudged with his head down along the winding path toward the small cabin. Mama would be busy
makingsupper.Thesnowflakesbecamethickerashelookeduptogazeattheblurry moon above the trees. He could feel their cold plops as they landed on his face. He stuck out his tongue to taste as many as he could. The silence of the forest was suddenly broken as an owl hooted in a tall pine tree above him, causing Willem to quickenhispace.
Finally, around a bend in the trail, the dim outline of the cabin came into view The lights within the stout log walls cast a warm glow on the snow outside. Willem instantlyfeltawarmthrisingwithinhim.HeknewthatMamawasbusyinside,anda hotmealwouldsoonbeready.
"Well, there you are! I was beginning towonder."Mamasaidasshewasse ng thetable.
Willem looked down as he took off his snowyclothes."SorryMama."
"Day dreaming again?" Mama came over and cupped his face in her warm hands, smiled, and then walked back to the table. "By the way, your father has a nice li le surprise for you and your brotherwhenhegetshome!"
“Really?"
"Yes, so wash up for supper there's warmwaterinthebasinnexttothestove."
Later, a er a bowl of hot stew and freshly baked biscuits, Papa cleared his throat and pushed back his chair "So Willem, how would you and Timothy like to go with meinthemorningtofindaChristmastree?"
Willem awoke early the next morning and looked out his bedroom window. It was s ll dark but a faint glow in the east held the promise of a good day. He rubbed his eyes and remembered going to bed with warm thoughts of playing with his li le brother by the fire and his parents talking quietly. He had lain awake for a long me before falling asleep. His stomach had been all aflu er with the excitement of cu ngdownanddragginghomeagreatbigChristmastree.
A er a hearty breakfast of porridge and fried apples, Papa, Timothy, and Willem set out from the cabin into the woods. The snow was too deep for li le Timothy to walk through, so Papa carried him on his shoulders. Willem trailed behind looking all around him. The morning sun cast a rosy glow on the wintry landscape. A cold breezewhippedflakesoffreshsnowfromthethicklyladenpineboughs.
Papa must have briefly forgo en about Timothy on his shoulders, for a pine branch caught the top of the li le boy's hat, dumping a cold load of snow squarely into his face. Timothy gasped, spu ered, and started to whimper, more out of shock and surprisethan from icydiscomfort. Papa cleanedhim off and hugged him. Willem no ced that Papa felt bad, but with that twinkle in his eye, it revealed that hethoughtitwasali lebitfunnytoo.
A while later, a small grove of spruces came into view. Papa smiled as he forged onwithhisaxebyhisside.
"Youthinkwecanfindanicetreeinthereboys?"
Timothy raised his head to look at the trees, but his hat had slid down over his eyes so he couldn't see. All they heard was a muffled squeal of excitement from underathicklyfrostedscarfandhatthatcompletelycoveredhisface.
"They're nice trees Papa!" Willem breathed heavily, sending a plume of vapour intotheicycoldair
"I think there may be one in there that's just the right size!" Papa puffed, li ing Timothyoffhisshoulders.Theli letykesunkintothesnowuptohiswaist.
Willem waded through the deep snow to size up each tree and pointedexcitedly "Howaboutthisone itlooksgoodtome!"
"Looks good to me too son, and just the right size," Papa said as he loweredtheaxefromhisshoulder
The spruce tree was quickly chopped down and ed securely to a lengthofropethatPapadugoutofhiscoatpocket.
That evening, with lamps burning and a few candles lit, the regal tree stoodinacorneroftheli lecabin.Papawasadjus ngthewoodenstand he'd made so the tree would be straight. Thick snowflakes fell lazily from adarkskyoutsidethewindowasWillemandTimothysatpa entlyatthe table.Theyeachhada ncupofhotappleciderandacookie.Willemfelt a cozy warmth and excitement as he gazed at that wonderful tree. He couldn't wait to help hang the decora ons, but knew he must sit quietly un l Mama finished organizing all the ornaments. But there s ll seemedtobesomethingthatbotheredhim.Somethingthathadniggled insidehimsinceyesterday
"Papa, are we poor?" Willem asked as he con nued to nibble on his cookie.
Mama looked up from her decora ons and Papa turned from the tree tolookattheboy ApuzzledlookhungonhisfaceasheglancedatMama and then back at Willem. "Who told you we were poor?", Papa asked, a stringdanglingfromhisfingers.
"Oh,Idunno...someboysatschoolwereteasin'mesayin'Ihadanold hand-me-down coat, and they laughed at my boots, too. They said you couldn't even buy a turkey for Christmas!" Willem sipped his drink withoutlookingup.
Papa tossed the string aside and stuck his hands deep in his pockets. AgainhelookedatMama,thenbackatWillem."Well,Iwasgonnagoout hun n'nextweektoseeaboutge n'usaturkey.Andaboutyourcoat... uh well,yourMamapatchedituprealgood,didn'tshe?"
"Well ... yeah, sure Papa, but it ain't new. Some other boy wore it beforeIgotit."
As Papa stood there looking concerned, Mama walked to the table, li ed the boy's chin, looked into his eyes and spoke so ly, "God provides allweneed.Some mesitsnew,andsome mesitsold–some meswith a hole or two – but He knows exactly what we need. We are very happy. We are blessed to live in a nice warm cabin too. We have plenty to eat ... so,all-in-allI'dsaywe'repre yrich."
"That's right son, we are rich. God doesn't always give us what we want, but He always blesses us with what we need." Papa's deep, gentle voice resonated through Willem's troubled spirit and seemed to dispel someofhisinnerturmoil.
As the evening wore on, the tree was slowly transformed from plain green to a colourful, sparkling Christmas tree. Mama's decora ons, along with the popcorn they'd all helped string, adorned the freshsmellingtreebeau fully.Papa had evenboughtasmallpapersackfullof li le white candles to set in the special holders that he had fastened onto some of the branches. Mama said they were only to be lit on ChristmasEve–themostholynightoftheyear ThenightBabyJesuswas born.
The flames in the stone fireplace flickered warmly on the log walls as Mama sat darning socks in her favourite chair. Papa was reading the Farmer's Almanac by lamplight in his chair, and Timothy sat on the floor playing with a wooden horse and wagon that Papa had carved for him. Willem was drawn to the sparkling wonder of that beau ful tree in the corner. As he stood before it, he tried to imagine how it would look all lit up. And with his hands in his pockets, he understood for the very first
me what being rich, or being poor, really meant. He had never thought about it before. But poor or not, he and Mama and Papa and li le Timothy were all healthy and happy and that meant they were truly rich. It had nothing to do with how much money they had, or didn't have. It had nothing to do with new or old clothes. It had nothing to do with toy trains. Willem suddenly didn't care that all he had to wear was an old patched coat, and scuffed boots that werejustabittoobig.
MerryChristmas! Rick
LET’S GO TO THE LIBRARY...
KNITERARY
Every Wed 3:00pm
2nd
CHRISTMAS PASTRY & PIE
WORKSHOP 10am $45 with Linda Pa erson, of Bordertown Café. Cost $45
LOCATION Glen Alda Community Centre
5th, 12th KIDS CLUB 3:15pm 6-10yrs
5th, 19th UKULELE GROUP
5 to 6:30pm
6th
TEENS & TWEENS 3:15pm Garland Making and Chips!
7th
Pain ng a GNOME - Adults 10am to Noon
12th
BOOK CLUB 6:30pm NK Library
19th 3:15 (kids up to gr 6) 20th 3:15 (kids gr 7 and up)
CHRISTMAS COOKIE
DECORATING
2025
Jan 3rd 2:00pm KIWI Tinkering Crate Building
Feb 8th 2:15pm $20
WEN-DO Womens Self Defense
For Girls 10-18 yrs
What’s Happening at the Library
Contributed by Kim Tucker and Lisa Mace
ThanksSoMuch!!!!
They say it takes a village, and we proved that Apsley! Thank you to everyone who contributed cra materials and supplies for our local kid’s art show This show would not have been possible without the generous financial dona ons made by both Mayor Carolyn Amyo e and Real Estate agent, Caroline Elder. To both of you, thank you so much,wearebeyondgratefulforyoursupport.Thankyou as well, to our local teachers and school staff, daycare staff, and home -schooling moms, for suppor ng the kid’s par cipa oninthiscollabora veshow.
Regular hours: Nov 26th, 27th, 29th @ 10AM to 5:00PM, Nov28th@10AMto7PM,andNov30th@10AMto2PM. Come and be amazed by what our local kids have put together. Over 200 children have par cipated in crea ng underwater themed art that will be on display at the library for 8 days. The work was all created from neon materials and will be lit using black lights. This has been a fun, enriching experience for all involved. We invite the communitytocome seewhatthekidshavecreated.
ChristmasPastryWorkshop
December2nd@10AM–GlenAldaCommunityCentre
Get in the holiday spirit by joining award-winning baker, Linda Pa erson from the Border Town Cafe, for this Christmas Pastry Workshop. We will be gathering at the Glen Alda Community Centre to learn how to make pastry from scratch. Each par cipant goes home with 2 - 4" beef pies and 2 - 4" bumbleberry pies. The cost is $45. Limited spaces To register contact Lisa at 705-656-4333 or l.mace@northkawarthalibrary.com. If cost is a barrier to yourpar cipa on,pleasecontactthelibrary
UkuleleGroup
Thursday, Dec 5th & Thursday, Dec 19th 5:00PM–6:30PM
This drop-in musical event is open to beginners and pros alike. Join us for this fun,socialgathering!
KidsClub! (Kidsuptograde6)
Thursday, Dec 5th, Thursday, Dec 12th 3:15PMto4:15PM
We are preparing a Christmas cra bonanza, and we hope you will join in the fun! Smallsnackandstoryprovided.
TeensandTweens!(kidsgrade7andup)
FridayDecember6th-3:15to5:00PM
Let’s create something fes ve for your room! Come in and learn how to make this Christmas garland. Choose from our yarn selec on or if you prefer certain colours, feel free to bring in your own. Come hangout, we’ll eat some chips, and getintheholidayspirittogether.
Kniterary
EveryWednesday@3:00PM
This is a lovely group that meets every week so, grab your yarn and join in! Beginners are welcome, there are many long-standing kni ers to help show you the ropes and answer any ques ons you mayhave.
NotYourAverage
“ReadThisorDie”BookClub
ThursdayDecember12th@6:30PM
It’s been an en re year since we started our Book Club and, has proved to be a favourite gathering for members. As this is our last meet-up before the holidays, feel free to bring along a small treat, or appe zer to contribute to the evenings chat.Andofcourse,thelastbookthatyou read! It’s a great way to socialize and learn about people through the books they read. You may even find out about a new author or genre that piques your interest.
Pain ngaChristmasGnome-Adults
SaturdayDecember7th10AMtoNoon
Try your hand at some fes ve pain ng. In this two-hour workshop you’ll learn the steps to pain ng this decora ve Christmas gnome on a 11x14 canvas Don’t stress if you’re a beginner, the steps are simple, and we’ll work through them together. Come for a coffee and a laugh, and hopefully go home with a pain ng you adore. Limited spaces, no cost. Call Lisa at 705-656-4333 or email l.mace@northkawarthalibary.com to register
ChristmasCookieDecora ng!
ThursDec19th 3:15PM:kidsuptogr6 FriDec20th@3:15PM:kidsgr7andup This is an annual library event, and a kid favourite! Hand-made gingerbread cookies, icing, and decora ons provided. Pre-registra on appreciated so that Santa’s helpers do enough baking! PleaseemailLisaat l.mace@northkawarthalibrary.com or call 705-656-4333 before December 15th to let her know your child would like to par cipate.
2025
KiwiTinkerCrateBuilding!
FridayJanuary3rd,2025:2:00PM If you’re looking for something fun to do with your kids before they go back to school,joinusinassemblingthesehandson, engineering kits. These projects are
designed for children ages 9 – 12. Ages can vary but, parentswillneedtoa endaswell,toassistwithreading instruc ons, and assembling the project. Once completed, it’s yours to take home! If you have ques ons, please check out the Kiwi website: kiwico.com
We only have 9 kits, so please pre-register by calling Lisa @705-656-4333oremailing
l.mace@northkawarthalibrary.com Upon registering, please let Lisa know which kit you and your child are interested in construc ng. Available kits include: 1. “Walking Robot” 2. “Air Cannon” 3. A second “Air Cannon”4.“BubbleLamp” 5.“WoodenCrane” 6.“LightUpPlanetarium” 7.“PaperCircuits” 8.“Magne cLight-UpPendulum9. BuzzingCircuits
Wen-DoWomen’sSelfDefenseWorkshop
ForGirlsages10to18
SaturdayFebruary8th,2025:2:15pmto4:30pm
In Novemberwehosted Heather Howe,a cer fiedWenDo instructor, with 25 years of experience. It was an amazing workshop that proved to be very empowering for local women. At that me, we had a lot of enquiries regarding a class for young women and, as a result we’re happy to report that this class is for you! This class will teach young women how to use their voices, their bodies, and their surroundings to defend themselves. If there are any moms who would like to a end alongside your daughter, moms are welcome to sign up as well! If you would like addi onal informa on, please feel free to contact Heather at www.wendo.ca. Registra on is limited, the cost is $20 per par cipant and is due upon registra on to hold your spot. Please email Lisa at l.mace@northkawarthalibray.com or call 705-6564333. If cost is a barrier to your par cipa on, please let Lisaknow.
NOTE
Woodview Branch of the library will close for the holidays on Saturday December 21st 2:00PM Apsley Branch will close Tuesday December 24th at Noon.
Both branches will re-open on January 2nd 2025
To stay connected in January and February, please follow us on social media or stop into the library to grab a “What’s Happening at the Library” sheet. We promise to have lots of fun and interes ng ac vi es for everyone in the community to enjoy. Happy Holidays!
by Mayor Carolyn Amyotte, Township of North Kawartha
COUNCIL’S CORNER
Please visit for all things www northkawartha ca municipalinNorthKawartha. Ifyouwouldliketoreceive regular municipal updates you may also subscribe to North Kawartha's email alerts via the website as well. If you would like to watch the Council mee ngs, please subscribe to the Township’s YouTube Channel. For those of you that are ac ve on social media please follow me @MayorAmyo e. It is my intent to share posi ve, factual and mely informa on about issues, events and happenings that impact our communityandresidents.Tocontactmedirectly,myphonenumberis(705) 931-1342andmyemailismayor@northkawartha.ca.
Here’safewthingsthathappenedinOctoberandNovember:
• Council heldour CapitalForecast mee ng and our first Budget mee ng.
A second Budget mee ng is likely in December with the hope to approveitatourlastregularCouncilmee ngonDecember17th
• Wepassedabylawtoadoptacustomerconductpolicy
• Council presented our Treasurer Judy Evere with her 25 year long standingserviceawardandwholebunchofnewredpens!
• We received an update from our animal control officer Deb Haigh and as a result will be looking at bylaw updates for animal control and exo c animals
• Council is considering a peer review of the recently completed flood mappingofChandosLakebytheCroweValleyConserva onAuthority
• We approved the expansion of our Community Improvement Plan (CIP) boundaries to include all of North Kawartha with priority s ll focused onourse lementareas
• Council supported circula ng my Mayors of Highway 28 Coali on dra le er to all the involved Mayors and Councils for their endorsement so we can send to the Minister of Transporta on. Next steps will include a request to meet with the Minister at the Rural Ontario Municipal Associa onconferenceinJanuary2025
The 2nd Tuesday is Short Term Rental Advisory Commi eeMee ngs
The 4th Tuesday of the month is the Regular Mee ngoftheLibraryBoard
Please check out the
Township website for further informa on as mee ng dates and mes can besubjecttochange.
ABC SENIORS
Contributed by Maaike Berg-Nonnekes
The month of December may, at first, suggest cold and darkness. The full moon which appears on the 15th is called ‘Cold Moon’ Also, the Winter Solstice or Blue Christmas on the 21st is the longest night. However, the focus of the month is really on the promise of the lengthening days and the light of Christmas hope!
The Seniors embrace the giving spirit in many ways throughout the year. Thank you to Lois and the team of volunteers for organizing a successful Bazaar in November.
Congratulations to the Raffle winners: L. Tucker, J. McGinn, and P. Beck
Thank you, Gail, for planning, organizing and taking care of all the details for the many interesting outings this fall. These include: a TIFF movie at the Bancroft Village Playhouse, a Casino trip, Christmas Lunch at the Burleigh Falls Inn (Dec. 11) and ‘Christmas in Space’- a Holiday Cirque Spectacular (Dec. 15) in Peterborough.
Regular activities and lunches are cancelled for December 24 and 31. The group will meet again in the new year on Tuesday, January 7. Take the chill out of winter and join the Seniors community at NKCC! Enjoy the weekly Tuesday Corn Hole games and lunch, followed by Euchre or Canasta. Wednesdays begin at 10:00 a.m. with the Exercise & Falls Prevention class (Community Care), then Pickleball and Crafts in the afternoon!
Annual ABC Seniors Bazaar
AROUND TOWN
Down the Road and Over the Fence
HIKE for HOSPICE
Submitted by Suzanne Quartermain & Family
On September 22, 2024 a 5 km walk was held to raise fundsforthePeterboroughHospice. Withtherecent passing of my husband, I experienced a Hospice for thefirst me.
Our three children, eight grandchildren and myself were so grateful with the care and comfort from staff and volunteers during my husband's eight day stay.
With the assistance of MAID, he was treated professionallyandcompassionately
Our daughter-in-law named our team "Al's Angels".
Our daughter, a busy Family Physician, raised over $5,000.00inhonourofherdad.
Family, friends from near and afar, people from Apsley and Anstruther Lake, helped her surpass her intendedgoal.
Thank you to everyone who was part of our most difficultjourney.
SHAVER: Shirley (nee Agnew)
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Shirley Ann Shaver on October 16, 2024 in her 86th y e a r , a t G e o r g i a n M a n o r i n Penetanguishene, Ontario.
Shirley was born to Herb and Ruby Agnew and grew up in Dundalk, Ontario, on a rural farm with her 12 siblings. Shirley moved to Brampton, Ontario and worked as a machine operator for Christie Biscuits and moved to Apsley, Ontario in 1972 when she became an owner of Anstruther Marina. Shirley retired after 30 years on Anstruther Lake and worked part time at the IGA in Apsley and volunteered at the local food bank.
Shirley was an animal lover and had many wonderful pets over the years, whether she chose them or they chose her. There was never a time that a pet was not in her home.
Shirley is predeceased by her husband of 61 years William “Bill” Shaver. Shirley is survived by her children Neil (Rena) and Karen (Dan). She is fondly remembered by her surviving siblings, Beverley Agnew, Islay Livingston, Donald Agnew (Mary Ellen) and Doris Jarvis and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the compassionate staff at Georgian Manor for making Shirley’s time living there enriching and rewarding. She enjoyed the social interactions, music, gardening and activities which allowed her to stay active and independent. A special thank you to the wonderful staff on the Silver Birch unit for the compassion and care shown to Shirley and her family during her last days in her home.
Many thanks to the staff at both the Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital dialysis unit and satellite Georgian Bay General Hospital dialysis clinic for their wonderful care during Shirley’s treatments.
Cremation has taken place, arrangements entrusted to THE HENDREN FUNERAL HOMES - LAKEFIELD CHAPEL. A celebration of Shirley’s life will take place at later date. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Canada or your local animal rescue or OSPCA. Friends may send condolences or make donations by visiting www.hendrenfuneralhome.com or by calling 705 652-3355.
Remembering JACK LOWN
“Oh how I miss Jack’s Cartoons...
December 14th 1946 to December 12th 2023
WHAT IS A BEAU?
Contributed by Author, Deborah Grey
www.wha sabeau.com NeedaUNIQUEChristmasGi givingidea!? Whynotsupportlocalauthorsandchari es!? “WhatisaBeau”wouldmakealovelygi ! A dona on to either Roters Reach or Run for the
It was almost 40 years ago when I first put pen to paper to write my children’s book “What is a Beau?” At the me, Fred Penner, a Canadian icon in children’s music and literature was performing in Lindsay, Ontario. I took my 2 youngest children, who were big fans of his music, to the theatre for Fred Penner’s concert. I also brought along my children’s story of a young basset hound’s journey of self discovery and acceptance. A er the concert, I approached Fredandaskedhimifhewouldbesokindastoreadmystory and advise me on next steps toward publishing my book. He graciously agreed and I handed him 4 pages of handwri en copy and hoped for the best. A few weeks later, I received a personal le er from Mr. Penner with his cri que and encouragement to pursue publica on. A er a number of a empts at reaching out to publishers, without illustra ons andasanunknownauthor,“WhatisaBeau?”Wasnotgoing to see the light of day I needed to rethink my approach and then life carried on with my children’s storybook always in thebackofmymind. Finallyasa72yearoldgrandmotherof 5 grandchildren, I had the opportunity to revisit my lifelong goal of becoming a published author. Once again I reached out to Fred Penner and he gave me permission to use his endorsement and I found the perfect publisher and illustrator through Friesen Press. My whole vision for Beau had been simmering in my mind for years and now it was me. “What is a Beau?” is a humorous and heartwarming story wri en in rhyme, illustrated in vintage, beau ful watercolour pain ngs accompanying each verse. Throughout the story, Beau realizes, by trying on different dress up items found in a child’s room, that we all share more common characteris cs to others than differences. My hope is to share these feelings with young readers everywhere so t h e y t o o w i l l understand that no ma er how many “hats” they try on, they are accepted as who they are and are loved. Never stop believing!
Eric Roter, 32, of Apsley passed on September 25th 2023 a er a courageous ba lewithBipolarDisorder.
Back in September Creekside Music Fes val donated a por on of proceeds to Roters Reach and here is what Eric’sFamilyhadtosay:
“We just wanted to take a moment to say thank you. Thank you to our incredible community for your unwavering support and to everyone who helped bring this fes val to life. We would like to extend a special thank you to the Del Mastros, who have been incrediblefamilyfriendsandaconstantsupportforEricthroughout his ba le with mental health.While there is so much to share about our mission with Roter’s Reach, we want toemphasizethatthisI s not just about what happened to us or to Eric. It’s about all of you—those who are suffering or suppor ng someone who suffers. Our goal is to ensure that no other family has to face the challenges we’ve endured. We are c o m m i e d t o l e a r n i n g , understanding,anddrivingchange.”
h ps://rotersreach.ca/home T h e C I B C R u n F o r t h e C u r
Peterborough on October 6th, had over 400 par cipants and raised a total of $91,583!! Our Team Liberty was again awarded the highest total dona ons with over$12,000andwethankourfamilyand friends for their con nued and generous support through dona ons, scrap metal, beer and lcbo emp es and the yard sale.
Over the years, mom’s team has raised over $250,000 towards breast cancer research We walk for those who have ba led, are currently ba ling or will someday ba le. Thank you for helping us take one step closer to a future without breast cancer!!
PETERBOROUGH COUNTY OPP
By Provincial Constable Dan Gay, Community Safety/Media Officer
Holiday Safety Tips
As the holiday season approaches, the Peterborough County OPP would like to wish everyone a safe, joyful, and peaceful me with loved ones. This is a wonderful me to gather, celebrate, and enjoy the tradi ons that make this season special. Whether you’re celebra ng with family, friends, or neighbours, we hope you find moments of joy and connec on that lastwellintotheNewYear
W i t h fe s v i e s c o m e a d d e d responsibili es, and we’d like to share some ps to help keep your holiday season safe and enjoyable for everyone.
1. Safety on the Roads The winter season brings challenging driving condi ons, and with more people travelling to visit family, road safety is our top priority Please remember to drive according to weather condi ons,
slow down on snowy or icy roads, and allow for extra stopping me. Before se ng out, ensure your vehicle is winterready, with proper res, a full tank of gas, and an emergency kit that includes warm blankets,food,andwater
2. Responsible Celebra ons Holiday gatherings o en include celebra ons with alcohol, so let’s look out for one another. If you’re hos ng, be mindful of your guests’ safety and encourage alterna ves for ge ng home if they need it. For those planningtoa endholidayevents,weurge everyone to avoid impaired driving. Have a plan for ge ng home safely if you’ll be drinking. Arrange for a designated driver, take public transit, or call a taxi or ride share service. Let’s all work together to ensure that everyone arrives safely at their des na on. Let’s make responsible choices that protect everyone’s wellbeing.
3. Protec ng Your Property The holiday season can unfortunately bring an increase in property crimes, including break-ins and the . To help protect your property, keep your doors and windows locked and secure any valuables out of plain sight. If you’re travelling, consider asking a neighbour to keep an eye on your home, and avoid pos ng travel plans on social media. Ligh ng mers and security cameras can also be helpful deterrents to would-bethieves.
4. Holiday Shopping Safety As you shop for gi s, be mindful of your surroundings in busy stores and parking lots. Keep your personal belongings secure, avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle, and stay aware of your surroundings. When shopping online, use trusted websites, and watch for poten al scams, especially on
unfamiliar sites. Simple precau ons can go a long way in keeping you and yourpurchasessafe.
Spreading Goodwill and Community Spirit While the holiday season is a me of joy for many, it can also be challenging for those facing hardship. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Consider lending a helping hand, dona ng to a local food bank, or suppor ng a charity that assists those in need. Together, we can make this season brighter for everyone in our community.
As we enter 2025, let’s con nue w o r k i n g t o g e t h e r t o m a k e Peterborough County a safe and welcoming place for all. From all of us at the Peterborough County OPP, we wish you and your family a holiday season filled with warmth, happiness, and good health. Let’s keep the spirit of safety and community alive as we celebrate together and look forward toabrightNewYear.
Stay safe, take care of each other, and haveawonderfulholidayseason!
