September 2024

FREE

SEPTEMBER 2024

Creekside Music Festival & Apsley Studio Tour

Back to School Breakfasts Storytelling : A Lost Art

From The Editor’s Desk This is free monthly public tion. Copies re distributed

by C n d Post nd for loc l pickup from L kefield to B ncroft, P ud sh, C rdiff nd Coe Hill re ion includin ll of the Apsley re .

If you don’t receive one in your m il box, you c n pick up copy t one of sever l loc l merch nts in nd round Apsley, lon the delivery routes or si n up for p id subscription! You c n c tch up on line t psleyb ckro ds.com The Publisher, Editor or ny of the contributors to this public tion sh ll not be li ble nd ssume no responsibility for loss or d m es rel tin to, or s result of ny written m teri l or dvertisin in this public tion.

“The fin l d te to submit ds, rticles nd stories for e ch monthly issue is the fifteenth of the month prior (or sooner!)”

SEPTEMBER 2024 The time of year that launches the “lunch making marathon” and the ever so popular “morning madness olympics”...I have three kids and used to run a daycare many moons ago...so I have been there and done that. My only advice: choose your battles!

If your kid wants to wear a sombrero, plaid shirt, shorts and his sister’s boots to school... let him (yup, that’s my Alex on the left) If your daughter refuses to eat anything other than cucumbers and a piece of bread for the 17th day in a row...let her (yup, Maryn still prefers her cukes and carbs). Keep some food in your car...cause in the chaos of keeping your kids alive and getting them out the door you’ve forgotten to eat or pack yourself anything - AND - those “car” snacks come in handy the days you forgot to plug in the crock pot and now have no dinner as you’re running out to one of the many after school sports you’ve over committed to (kids can survive off granola bars for a surprisingly long period of time) One thing you should never falter on is loving your kids fiercely...be consistent, be their parent first and friend second and never start or end the day without saying you love them.

They don’t just need you when they are younger...they need you in every important stage. My daughter is off to college this Fall...(**sniff sniff** where’s the kleenex) and I know we have given her a strong foundation to tackle this huge leap in her life. You’re going to do your best Maryn and we are so ridiculously proud of you!

or check us out online at apsleybackroads.com

Back to School season here in Apsley kicks off with TWO HUGE events that we all look forward to : Creekside Music Fest and the Apsley Studio Tour - I can’t wait.

Congratulations to our Summer Photo Contest Winner - Bob Martin and stay tuned for our Annual Winter Photo contest to start in November (for a chance to grace the January cover). Local business are still in full swing, including the Marina’s. Local Hockey is starting back up, and our Library has some incredible after school programming!

Subscriptions

See you around town!

Advertising The rate card is available by contacting me directly at theapsleybackroads@gmail.com

Subscriptions are available for $55.37 (HST included). 12 months, mailed right to your door.

Cover Photo Credit: Bob Martin (SUMMER PHOTO CONTEST WINNER) One of Bob’s neighbours on Stoney Lake, (the Bonngo Family) have an 8 yr old son named Caleb. Bob took him shing one afternoon. After joking that Caleb was catching lots of “weed sh”, young Caleb was happy to catch a real sunsh!

705-761-6213 theapsleybackroads@gmail.com

Helena McMann Publisher, Editor,Owner

9927 Highway 28 Apsley Ontario K0L 1A0

Outdoor Fungal Foray - Sat. September 14th @ 10am Earlier in the summer we were thrilled to welcome, Susan Chow, a biologist from Trent University who specializes in diverse Ontario fungi. We were What’s lead through a fast-paced beginner workshop that gave us an overview of how fungi groups are organized and how to begin recognizing some of the Happening major fungi groups. Now it’s me to take this knowledge on a walk! Join us at the Library as Susan leads us on a hike through the woods as we seek out, iden fy and, discuss the fungi we come across. Everyone is welcome, you do not need to Contributed by Kim Tucker and Lisa Mace have a ended the beginner workshop in order to a end the walk. The exact Well, a er a very busy loca on will be adver sed on social media closer to the date to ensure fungi summer at the library, are present. You can also call the library to inquire at 705-656-4333. t h a t ’s a w r a p ! We would like to extend a Author Reading & Kick Off To 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Party! – huge thank you to a few Wednesday September 18th @ 10am – Ages 0 to 5 women who put a lot of 1000 books before kindergarten is an early me and effort helping literacy challenge. The concept is simple; read a us out with the thousand books to your newborn, infant, and/or c h i l d r e n ’s s u m m e r toddler before they begin kindergarten. Reading programming. Thank you to re red elementary teacher, to babies, toddlers and preschoolers builds their Sharon Sidaros, who came weekly armed with amazing brains, their connec on with you and, the early songs and stories for our li lest patrons. Thank you, skills and language they will need to be a strong Sharon, you are an amazing blessing to our library. As well, reader for life. Although 1000 books sounds like thank you to re red science teacher, Kathy Gingerich, who a lot, consider that you can read the same books came in twice to teach our Curious Kids Club members all over and over again! Reading just 3 books a day to your child, you will be about moon phases and, what pollinators see. What a finished in less than a year. This year we are kicking things off with a story great learning experience, we appreciated your visual party! We will be hos ng Apsley na ve and, author, Deborah Grey, as she teachings very much! Big thanks as well to our two reads out loud for us her first published children’s book. “What is a Beau?” is summer student volunteers, Amelia, and Brooklyn. You a charming, rhyming story about the power of dress up and make-believe; ladies showed up every week with enthusiasm and great it’s a lovely read about the search for self-discovery and acceptance. Every game sugges ons, our Curious Kids Club would not have child who a ends will have their name put into a draw to win their very own been as much fun without you. Last but certainly not least, copy. As well, we will be joined by re red teacher, Sharon, who will be we would also like to thank all those who came out and reading even more books, in combina on with some fun li le sing-along supported us at our Book Sale Fundraiser. A special thanks songs. Snacks will be provided, and a quick cra will be available for those to all the volunteers who helped, Edith, Alice and Chris, children that are interested.

Leigh, Bill and Alice, Dawn and, Lucy and her cohorts. The generous gi of your me is greatly appreciated, and we Kid’s Ukulele – Wednesdays: Sept 25th to October 16th, 4:00-4:45pm could not have done it without you!

All children are invited to come out to Kid’s Ukulele this fall. We are going to learn basic chords and how to play some fun songs in this 4-week fall Book Club – Thursday September 12th @ 6:30pm session. If you don’t have a ukulele, the library has ukuleles you can borrow, Our not your average “read this or die” book club is back! so come on out and let’s make some music!

A er a quick break over the summer, we will gather again to discuss our favourite summer reads. Just bring the last A er School Kid’s Club is Back! – Thursdays Beginning September 19th @ book you read and look forward to respec ul 3:30pm – Kids aged 6 to 10 conversa on, interes ng observa ons, and lots of We can’t wait to see you all again and hear about your summer vaca on! laughter. Refreshments will be served.

This year Kid’s Club will include a small snack and story book when you first arrive. On the 19th we will be follow that up with a cra and, on the 26th our Learn to Make a Lap Size Rag Quilt ac vity will be an art project. Come and get crea ve at the library!

Friday, September 13th from 1:00pm to 5:00pm Saturday, September 14, from 9am to 5:00pm Apsley Garden Club presents Baz Conlin Learn to make a lap size rag quilt in a 2-day, 10 hour and DARKSIDE – Wednesday, September workshop with Shirley Thomas. Shirley is a wonderful 25th, 6:30pm teacher and, this workshop you come away with a new set Everyone is welcome to come to the library of skills and your own lap size quilt to cuddle up in this and hear Baz Conlin present his talk winter. All the materials you need are provided in the Darkside – Exploring the World of Moths. registra on fee of $90.00. Coffee and tea is included.

He explains why moths are so fascina ng If cost is a barrier, please reach out to and how crea ng a moth habitat at home k.tucker@northkawarthalibrary.com or 705-656-4333. can be extremely fulfilling! Baz is a lifelong

naturalist with a passion for insect-plant interac ons.

He has been observing moths in eastern Ontario for the past 12 years and has recently opened a na ve plant nursery to supply the plants needed to support moths in the home landscape. This promises to be a fascina ng talk, and we hope you can come and enjoy it with us. Refreshments will be served.

Teens & Tweens – Friday Sept 27th @ 3:30pm – Kids aged 11 and Up Got an old t-shirt hanging around the house that you don’t really wear anymore but, just can’t bear to get rid of?

Bring it with you to the library and learn how to transform it into a handy li le book bag!

This is a fun, no sew project that you can finish in one si ng. Don’t have your own t-shirt? No problem, we’ll have a few extras.

Kniterary - Wednesdays 3:00pm-5:00pm Come on down to the library and cozy up with our laid-back group of kni ers, spanning all skill levels and ages. Bring along your current project, whether it's kni ng, croche ng, needlework, or any portable cra that strikes your fancy. Around our circle, you'll fi n d s o c k s , s c a r v e s , a n d b l a n ke t s i n t h e making—plus, we've got needles for beginners eager to dive in.

Lunch me Ukulele - Thursdays through September from 1:00-2:00pm Join our Ukulele Group every Thursdays in September for an hour of music and camaraderie outside at the Gazebo! We will be there unless the weather is bad! Whether you're picking up the ukulele for the first me or you're a seasoned player, you'll find a welcoming community eager to share the joy of music together. No formal instruc on, no pressure to perform—just a relaxed atmosphere where everyone supports each other's musical journey. Don't have a ukulele? No problem! Borrow one from the library and discover the magic and join us for an upli ing blend of music and socializa on that's sure to brighten your spirits!

Pain ng Outdoors - September, Wednesdays, 10:00am - Noon Cooler weather and warm colours are coming which make it a beau ful me to paint in the North Kawarthas. Embrace your crea vity and join our vibrant outdoor pain ng group! Whether you're a seasoned ar st or just star ng your journey with a paintbrush, there's something magical about capturing nature's beauty with paint, crayon, pencil or ink. Imagine spending your Wednesday morning surrounded by lush landscapes, soaking in the sunlight, and breathing in the fresh air while unleashing your ar s c flair! Our friendly community is all about embracing the great outdoors as our muse and finding inspira on in nature. Join us for relaxed pain ng sessions, where you'll connect with fellow art lovers, exchange ps and tricks, and create together! Everyone is welcome to join.

For more informa on about loca ons please contact k.tucker@northkawarthalibrary.

The Monarch & The Milkweed Breakfast Café & Inn All day breakfast, baked goods, smoothies, diner favourites and scooped ice cream NEW FALL HOURS CLOSED Monday to Wednesday OPEN Thursday/Friday 7:00am - 4:30pm OPEN Saturday/Sunday 8:00am - 4:30pm

905-933-5073 5548 Hwy 620, Coe Hill themonarchandthemilkweed@gmail.com

POEMS

by KATHY

by Kathy Figueroa

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neumanfamilyfuneralhome.com (Formerly Baragar Funeral Home) 20

Like a River I guess life can be like a river With rapids and deep hidden whirlpools, And waterfalls you tumble over If you keep the company of fools.

And you can quickly get pulled under By dangerous hidden snags and rocks; You have to watch what a person does Not just listen to how someone talks.

If it was possible to live again And always view life through wisdom’s eyes, I’d never be wounded or weary From grievous duplicity or lies.

I’d always know what was the right choice And away from the wrong I could steer; I’d have that twenty/twenty vision Which, in hindsight, is always so clear.

But the sky wouldn’t be lovelier Than it is at this moment I write; The flowers just couldn’t be finer Or present a more beautiful sight.

Though life can be like a great river, Either calm or treacherous and swift, Waterlilies bloom along its banks And it’s all a most glorious gift. ~Kathy Figueroa “Like a River” was first published on October 1, 2013, in the Bancroft This Week newspaper.

Easier to Build a Rocket to Mars This is the story of a love-struck swain Who went to the garden to write a quatrain.

Preoccupied with thoughts of the verse he’d compose He absentmindedly tripped and fell on a rose.

Mysteriously, subsequent to that stroke of ill luck, Elusive poetic inspiration struck But there he was bleeding, scratched, torn, And pinioned by the rose’s thorn.

He mused, “Penning romantic verse can be a peril-fraught obsession Maybe, instead of ‘poet,’ I should change my profession,” Then concluded, as he gazed at the now visible stars, “Perhaps ‘twould be safer and easier to build a rocket to Mars!” ~Kathy Figueroa This was inspired by Elon Musk’s X/Twitter poem on May 13, 2023.

WILSON PARK PICKLEBALL CLUB HOLDS FIRST TOURNAMENT Contributed by John Cole

Donations and Funds Raised for the North Kawartha Food Bank The sun shone brightly and there was a gentle breeze on the morning of Tuesday August 13th for the first Pickleball Tournament at the Wilson Park Courts (in the area next to the Library, Community Centre and Fire Hall complex in Woodview). Members of the Wilson Park Pickleball Club held a fun tournament and also collected both food and cash dona ons in support of the North Kawartha Food Bank. Pickleball Club members meet and play Tuesdays and Thursdays (from May to October) at different skill levels, but on this day combined skill groups of the members competed in a series of games to determine the overall winners in Novice and Intermediate/Advanced categories of play. 28 people par cipated with a focus on social connec on, fun, and just a li le serious compe on, too. A er the event, a potluck social was held where players got to meet some of the other people they may have only have seen in passing as they show up for their regular games. The tournament a endees reflected about half of the overall 60 registered members of the Wilson Park Pickleball Club.

The Club chose to raise dona ons

Nancy Mandley Real Estate Broker

Direct: 705-740-4912 rmandley@cbelectricrealty.c 215 George St N Peterborough Office: 705-243-9000

for the local Food Bank (both in cash and many nonperishable food items) as it reflected an opportunity to give back to the local community. The cash dona ons alone amounted to $565.

ABOVE: Money and Food donations being given to Diane Rothnie of the NK Food Bank by Kim Lenover, WPPG Coordinator.

BELOW: Club Shot from the Bleachers

5584 Hwy 28, Woodview 705-656-1200 admin@accuratetax.ca

CLPOA

accuratetax.ca

JLA ON THE LAKES

CLPOA brought an incredible Fireworks display to Chandos Beach, Aug 3rd. Thanks to Derek Hull & the Fireworks Commi ee!

Another fun filled and successful year of the annual Chandos Lake Rega a, held Aug 3rd, at Lakeview Marina, thank you to all that came and supported the event and to all our sponsors and volunteers.

(Photos by Jay MacFadyen) Regatta Photo credits to Lakeview Marina

Maybee’s Backyard BBQ, getting set up for the event

Hello Jack Lakers!

The highlight of the summer for many Jack Lakers and their guests has come and gone, in what feels like a blink of an eye. JLA Rega a Weekend 2024 is in the books and what a weekend it was!

Saturday's Sailing & Windsurfing Races featured six brave compe tors and a variety of support boats and the entries in the Annual Anna Sweeney Decorated Boat Parade entertained a huge flo lla of fans with their crea vity and enthusiasm!

Rega a Sunday at Anchorage Marina & Forest Glen Marina was an amazing day!

We had more than 400 par cipants in all of Sunday's events - and that's not coun ng those who came along just to cheer and enjoy the day!

Our Book, Puzzle and Game Sale earned more than $350 for future JLA ac vi es. (Thank you Dawn a n d t e a m ! ) T h e B a ke S a l e , supported by many lake bakers, raised more than $600 and the JLA will be dona ng at least 50% of those proceeds to the North Kawartha Foodbank! (Thank you Gwen and team - and all bakers!

Thank you! Thank you! A huge thank you to all of our Rega a volunteers - sailing marshals and Regatta Photo credits safety boats, decorated boat to Caitlin Quarry parade judges and lead boat, run and swim volunteers, safety boats, event judges, booth coordinators and contributors, swim race dock ballast anchors (ha!), and so many more... and thank YOU to all who came out to compete or to observe. The JLA Rega a is always an amazing opportunity to see our lakeside community come together.

We would like to welcome our 13+ new JLA members and thank all of our con nuing members who renewed at the Rega a or online! We couldn't do what we do without your support!

If you're not yet a JLA member and would like to be - a year-long JLA membership is just $50! To sign up, or renew, please visit: h ps://www.jackslakeassocia on.ca/registra on/ If you would like to volunteer for future JLA events - or would like to know what volunteer op ons are available - please reach out to our Events Director Jonathan Mitchell.

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL COMMUNICATIONS HOME AUTOMATION LANDSCAPE SECURITY LIGHTS GENERATOR INSTALL & SERVICE

705-868-1684 Jason Noffke

Master Electrician

JNoffke@live.ca ECRA/ESA#7012657

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In Hamblyns field where the brush does grow There used to be lumber piles yes row upon row The trees were cut in the bush up on the hill, Then cut into logs and hauled down to the mill Horses brought the sleighs along an icy road Where hills were sanded to stop a runaway load In the bush there wasn’t any chainsaw sound Only axes chopping and trees as they hit the ground The camp the men stayed in was full of lice And smells of wet dirty clothes wouldn’t be nice Yes at 4 a.m. they arose from their bed They had breakfast of salt pork beans tea and bread They started in the bush long before daylight And finished in the dark later that night There at the mill they worked hard all day Only back then they got very little pay The mill saw was kept sharp to get through the wood As two men cutting boards wouldn’t if they could Some logs they cut were maple beech birch and oak But working in the mill or the bush it was no joke The lumber was piled up high yes all by hand And it sure would have been not in that field of sand Some of the lumber was taken and put in a boxcar To be taken by train to places near and far Those folks maybe felt times will be better somehow Yes times are better nowadays and they’re all gone now Back then to the mill did a short cut someone take As there is a team and a sleigh load of logs in Mullet Lake Good stories today that area could tell if it could talk But those stories to people today would really shock Bessemer village the mill and the train are gone too Logs are hauled away by trucks ruining the roads they do There is very little there now like in days of yore Only a cottage or two but no big village as there was before

PEST-RX

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(7378)

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COUNCIL’S CORNER

by Mayor Carolyn Amyotte, Township of North Kawartha

APSLEY LEGION BRANCH # 381 Contributed by Lori Brock

National Legion Week Coming Up

We held a successful worker bee at the end of July and want to extend our deepest thanks to the legion members and friends of the legion who showed up and put in the hard work to keep our legion in running order. Without the dedica on and hard work of our volunteers there would be no Branch 381 and we cannot thank you enough!

2024 marks the second annual Na onal Legion week September 15th to 21st . We will be kicking off Legion week Saturday September 14th with our Here’s a few things that happened in August: annual John Ditchburn memorial dart tournament star ng at 10am. We will be ending our Legion week • We sent a letter to the MTO regarding the significant traffic on the 21st with our honours and awards delays with the Eels Creek bridge construction on Highway 28 presenta on for members and sports awards at • Council also authorized me to contact the other Mayors of 11am with a lite lunch to follow.

Highway 28 about working together to address the on-going Jam Night is cancelled on Sept 6th as we will be busy safety concerns with this critical roadway suppor ng the Creekside Music Fes val! As always • We provided a letter of support for Communal Servicing and the follow us on facebook to stay up to date with legion establishment of a Municipal Services Corporation to the County, events.

EORN and the CMHC in anticipation of future Housing Developments in North Kawartha • Council provided approval through our Special Events Bylaw for the Creekside Music Festival September 6-8, 2024 • We agreed to offer a placement opportunity for a local student through the Cooperative Education Program from Thomas A Stewart High School

Please visit www.northkawartha.ca for all things municipal in North Kawartha. If you would like to receive 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 community and residents. To contact me directly, my phone number is (705) 9311342 and my email is mayor@northkawartha.ca.

Here’s what’s coming up in September…

Sep 3, 2024- Regular Meeting of Council Sep 17, 2024- Regular Meeting of Council Sep 24, 2024- Regular Meeting of the Library Board Sep 25, 2024- Strategic Planning Meeting of Council Sep 26, 2024- Quad Council Meeting of Curve Lake, North Kawartha, Selwyn and Trent Lakes

Alice Liberty

ABC SENIORS Contributed by Maaike Berg-Nonnekes

Welcome to September which features September 8th as Grandparents Day, and, soon a er, Na onal Seniors Day on October 1st.

It seems appropriate to highlight a local Senior/Grandparent to remind us of their immense contribu ons in the lives of both grandchildren and society as a whole.

Alice Liberty is no stranger to the Apsley Community having been a local resident for over thirty years and who was honoured as the Senior of the Year in 2016! She is an adventurous woman who has enjoyed snowmobile trips, reading, gardening, Bingo, line dancing and bowling to name just a few of her interests. But, what really became her passion and focus during the last 20 years, driven by her love and memory of her dear sister, Jane, is fundraising for Breast Cancer. Along with her main supporters, Bill and her family, she started the “Women of Apsley” to raise awareness, educate and raise money for the cause. She was fully commi ed to door to door visits, selling hand-kni ed dish cloths, collec ng scrap metal, and having annual yard sales and line dancing Jamborees. All the proceeds were donated to Breast Cancer. Over the years, this amount exceeded $200 000. Alice will con nue to do the walk with family on October 6th in Peterborough.

She par cipated in all these ac vi es with enthusiasm and flair, wearing her pink wig and flowery pink bra, warmly engaging others in conversa on and accep ng dona ons.

The ABC Seniors is another group that is dear to her heart. She served on the Board of Directors for more than ten years. The line dancing that became such a successful Seniors’ ac vity was because Alice was willing to learn a wide repertoire of dances and graciously teach others. The line dancing group also prepared and served Pancake Tuesday lunches. This all began in 2001 and ended with the Covid closures in 2020. Several levels of instruc onal groups were formed and many folks benefi ed from the physical ac vity and the social func on it provided.

Throughout the me cha ng with Alice, surrounded by photos and the many news clippings celebra ng her journey, a general theme of determina on and a great sense of humour came through. Alice exemplifies the wisdom of enjoying life, never giving up and to keep on going! Do what you can do! It’s no surprise to find her in an elaborate clown costume in the July and December parades. And, newcomers at Seniors are warmly welcomed by Alice to join her table for lunch. Thank you, Alice, for the gi s you readily share with others!

Anstruther-Burleigh-Chandos (ABC) SENIORS “An inclusive place for friendship, fitness and learning”

Join us for Pickle ball and other Fitness programs, Lunches, Euchre, Canasta Hand & Foot, Floor Shufeboard and relevant Senior’s Learning Programs.

New members are welcome!

apsleyabcseniors@gmail.com at the North Kawartha Community Centre 340 McFadden Road in Apsley

SEPTEMBER 2024 2 4/11

LABOUR DAY Help with your Health seminars 12pm - 1:30 COMMUNITY CARE, at LIBRARY, Business Hub 4th - Understanding Blood Pressure 11th - Understanding Diges on

6/7/8 CREEKSIDE MUSIC FESTIVAL

See SCHEDULE of EVENTS PAGE 13

8 10

GRANDPARENTS DAY GOLF FORE CARE Golf Tournament, Community Care Fundraiser

14

ANNUAL JOHN DITCHBURN DART TOURNAMENT, Apsley Legion

18

ANXIETY WORKSHOP, PTBO Family Health Team ,1 to 3pm, LIBRARY 705-740-8020, ext 335

18

EUCHRE, support of the Lions Club $2/pp 7:00pm, NKCC

21/22 APSLEY STUDIO TOUR 10 am to 5pm apsleystudiotour.com

25

LINE DANCING CLASSES Wed, 7pm $40 Sept 25, Oct 2, 9, 16, 23 , Nov 6.. Legion

Looking Ahead

OCT 14 Thanksgiving OCT 31 Halloween NOV 11 Remembrance Day NOV 16 Holiday Extravaganza

LET’S GO TO THE LIBRARY...

Book Club – Thursday 12th @ 6:30pm Learn to Make a Lap Size Rag Quilt - 2-day, 10 hour workshop with Shirley Thomas. $90 Friday 13th 1:00pm to 5:00pm Saturday 14th 9am to 5:00pm Outdoor Fungal Foray – Sat 14th @ 10am Susan Chow, a biologist from Trent University, a hike through the woods to seek out, iden fy and discuss fungi!

Author Reading & Kick Off To 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Party!

Wed 18th @ 10am – Ages 0 to 5 Kid’s Ukulele – Wed 25th, Oct 2, 9, 16th 4:004:45pm. 4-week fall session A er School Kid’s Club. Thursdays Star ng 19th @ 3:30pm Ages 6 to 10 Apsley Garden Club presents Baz Conlin Wednesday 25th, 6:30pm Seminar: Darkside – Exploring the World of Moths Teens & Tweens – Friday 27th @ 3:30pm Ages 11 + Turn a T-shirt into a Book Bag! Kniterary - Wednesdays 3:00pm-5:00pm Lunch me Ukulele - Thursdays throughout September 1 - 2:00pm Pain ng Outdoors Wednesdays, 10-12pm

Do you have a Business, Event or Announcement you want to share!?

There are three amazing op ons to promote it with the Backroads!

1. Community Calendar is no charge - we share the date and include a short sentence write up to promote your event 2. Paid adver sing : shared to over 4000 homes each and every month - both print copies and online via apsleybackroads.com. Current 2024 prices begin at $68.

NOTE: if you’re Not for Profit, The Backroads offers discounted adver sing 3. Our “Around Town” page: Great choice for Birth Announcements, Obituaries, and one me Events. You get a small pic and a few sentences to share. This is $50 + HST

AROUND TOWN Down the Road and Over the Fence

Rowley, Jeanette Charlotte (nee Lowrie) P a s s e d a w a y a t Peterborough Regional Health Centre on August 4th, 2024. Beloved wife of Fredrick Rowley. Loving mother of Guy Page, Bonny Somer (Bruce), William Page (Linda), Mark page, Debra Elder, Donald Page (D. Dorothy) and Cory Page. Dear grandmother and great grandmother to many. Jeanette will also be missed by her best friend Holly Hilker.

Cremation has taken place. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to Community Care in Apsley by visiting www.hendrenfuneralhome.com or by calling (705) 652-3355.

Lee, Elaine Constance Passed away suddenly on Sunday August 18, 2024. Elaine Lee of Apsley in her 83rd year.

Elaine was a kind and compassionate woman who dedicated her life to her family and to God, while generously sharing her time with others.

Elaine and Bob shared 59 years together raising their 7 children. She will be greatly missed by her family and community. Elaine is loved and missed by her husband of 59 years, Robert “Bob” Lee. Lovingly remembered by her children Heather Lean (Lew), Laurie Corbett (Reg), Ryan Lee (Shannon), Jason Lee, Erin Lee, Tim Lee (Shannon), 9 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Also missed by her siblings Bob (Margaret), Claire, Joyce (Tom), Mary Ellen, Mark, Chris (Margaret), Janice and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents Joseph and Emma Janssens, son Rob (2005) and brother Ed. A private family interment will be held at Lasswade Christian Cemetery, Apsley. Memorial donations may be made to Intercede International as expressions of sympathy and may be made by contacting THE HENDREN FUNERAL HOMES, LAKEFIELD CHAPEL, 66 Queen Street, Lakefield at www.hendrenfuneralhome.com or by calling 705-652-3355 “One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple.”

Psalm 27 Verse 4

11 studio loca ons spread throughout the North Kawarthas present the work of 30 ar sts, including 4 new to the tour this year. A wide variety of art and cra is on display and many of the studios have live demonstra ons. Please go to our website at apsleystudiotour.com to download the Toureka app to help plan your route, download a map of the tour and for info on each ar st.

Please join us for a fun-filled weekend!

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE! 50th Reunion of LAKEFIELD DISTRICT HIGH SCHOOL Graduating Class of 1973-74!!!

SEPTEMBER 28th 2024 2-5pm LAKEFIELD LEGION-10 Nicholls St, Lakefield Come out to catch up with old friends & classmates.

Partners are welcome too! Cover Charge is $25.00pp at the door. Food/non-alcoholic drinks provided, Cash Bar. RSVP 50threunionldhs@gmail.com

Roger Neil Crosby October 31st, 1949 to August 12th, 2024

On Monday, August 12, 2024 at 4p.m., at home, Our loving Roger got his wings to Heaven and is now playing sweet fiddle and guitar music with his family.

Our hearts are saddened and the Crosby family circle is broken. Roger Neil Crosby, beloved husband & best friend of Eleanor (Montgomery) Crosby, loving father of Robert (& Sharleen) of Apsley, Kevin (& Savanah) of Glen Alda, Crystal (& Ryan) Freeburn of Woodview and Peter (& Barb) of Boulter, doting and loving grandfather of Taelor, Caleb, Calli, Ella, Anden, Benjamin, Grace, Georgia, Pierson and Ada and great grandfather of Madelynn. Roger is survived by his brother, Gordon (& Iris) and by his sister in law, Faith. He was predeceased by his siblings: Aileen, Grover, Murray (& Wilma) and Pat. The Montgomery Families are also saddened to lose such a wonderful man: Mureta & Bernard, Murray & Lois, Lois & Jack (d) and Doug.

Numerous nieces and nephews, the great and great great nieces and nephews all adored their “Uncle Roger”.

Roger was born in Faraday Township and was raised and lived in the Coe Hill and Apsley area all of his life. During his career, Roger was employed

with the Ministry of Transportation. A man of many talents and a vast array of interests, Roger will be remembered fondly for his love of music, especially playing the ddle and the guitar, for going to jamborees around the country and always hosting the jam sessions at their trailer, camping, riding his Harley, being with and entertaining his grandchildren, for his faithful devotion as a fan to the Toronto Blue Jays and the Montreal Canadiens and for his interest in collecting and restoring pin-ball machines and juke boxes. Gone too soon but his smile and his music will live on.

Service: Sat, Sept 14th, 2024 12pm Apsley Community Chapel, 299 McFadden Road, Apsley Reception: (to follow) 1 to 4pm North Community Centre, 340 McFadden Road, Apsley

Jim Alexander Sales Representative 613-202-1495 (cell) jim@teamalexander.ca

Roz Jones Sales Representative 905-259-6687 (cell) roz@teamalexander.ca

is one of my favourites. I can't remember his exact words, of course, but I'll tell it as best I can.

VIEW FROM THE CABIN

by Rick de Haan

Bob’s yer Uncle It's was about 50 years ago that I lived with my Uncle Bob and Auntie Anne. It was only for a couple of months, but I still remember it like it was yesterday.

At that juncture in my life my mother wasn't around since she was in Holland, and my father was too busy to look after me because he was working long hours selling real estate. I really didn't mind, though. I saw it as just another interesting adventure.

Bob grew flowers for a living on a rented farm that had several large greenhouses on it. It was summertime, so I would work every day watering thousands of plants, as well as doing any other jobs that had to be done. Essentially, this paid for my keep.

Suppertime was my favorite part of the day.

Auntie Anne was a really good cook, and after every supper there was a shiny quarter under my plate.

Uncle Bob was a tall, lanky, easy-going guy with sandy blond hair and an infectious smile. He was unforgettable, bigger than life, and there always seemed to be a mischievous glint in his eyes. Had he grown up in Texas, I'm sure he would have been a cowboy.

In addition to Bob's many "interesting" qualities, he was a storyteller par excellence. He had a penchant for thoroughly entertaining anyone who would listen. Many of his yarns were fanciful tales of heroics, the likes of which one would only see in the movies. Most people realized very quickly that Bob stretched the truth, but that gave his stories a bit of extra charm.

Uncle Bob and I were relaxing on the back porch one summer evening with a mug of coffee. He looked at me with an impish smirk on his face, and I knew he was about to start in on one of his tales.

That story he told on the porch all those years ago

In 1959 when he was in his early twenties, Bob was employed as a firefighter. He fought wildfires in the vast inland forests of Nova Scotia as part of a rough-and-tumble crew of "smoke jumpers".

They would be flown to a fire's location and then jump out of a twin engine airplane to parachute down onto a clearing near the fire.

After stowing their chutes and formulating a plan of attack, they would start cutting fire lines and do various other things that smoke jumpers do. (Bob was not overly specific here!)

One time, as he was being flown to a "hotspot" with his crew, the pilot announced that there was a problem with the left wing. One of the flaps was stuck in the "down" position for some unknown reason. The pilot was desperately looking for a place to land since it wasn't safe to fly with with a jammed flap. But there was nowhere to land in the unending forests 8,000 feet below them.

Bob, the clever problem solver that he was, sprang up from his jumpseat to remedy the situation. He opened the door over the wing, and armed with a screwdriver clambered with the nimble agility of a squirrel in a windstorm over to the offending flap.

There, to his surprise, he found a pine cone firmly wedged in the small gap between the flap and the main part of the wing. Bob quickly found that the screwdriver was inadequate for the job. So, not knowing what to do with it at that point, he casually tossed it into the wind, narrowly missing the tail rudder. He then drew his hunting knife and began sawing and stabbing at the stubborn cone.

The pilot, who wasn't aware that someone had exited his airplane, wondered why he was suddenly experiencing increased drag on the left side. The confused pilot then glanced out the side window of the cockpit and beheld a sight he'd never witnessed

before, and likely never would again . . . some idiot clinging to the wing and hacking at it with a large knife.

Bob, at that precise moment, happened to look up and notice the wide-eyed pilot staring at him. Feeling the need to explain himself, Bob proceeded to open his mouth, whereupon the 150 mile-anhour wind forced it open to its maximum, causing his cheeks to spontaneously balloon outwards and flap about at an uncomfortable rate of speed. Thinking the better of trying to communicate with the pilot, Bob gestured with his knife, and turned his attention back to the pine cone. Finally after a few more jabs, the stubborn cone dislodged and the flap was released.

With the knife firmly clamped in his teeth, Bob crept back along the wing, careful to stay away from the whirling propeller, and knocked on the door to be let back in the cabin.

BARRISTER, SOLICITOR & NOTARY

135 Burleigh St. Apsley, ON K0L 1A0 T 705-872-4100 F 705-872-4101

Graciela Del Mar Cubias Hons. B.A., LL.B

graciela@cubiaslaw.ca www.cubiaslaw.ca

As he finished his story, I couldn't help being in awe of his bravery. "Wow!" I said. But, even at the gullible age of 13, I had a sneaking suspicion that he'd royally embellished a few of the details.

Noticing the admiration in my eyes, he reached for his mug on the coffee table. "Well, ya know, somebody had to do it," he sniffed.

The glint in his eye sparkled more than usual as he took a swig of his now lukewarm coffee. "When we got back to base after three days of fighting the fire, the pilot walked up to me and told me it was a really stupid thing I did. Can you believe it? So I told him, 'Look, I saved you guys! You should be thankin' me! Besides, I was wearin' a parachute! What's the worst that could've happened?'"

Uncle Bob swallowed the last of his coffee and looked at me with a boyish grin, “I'll bet you never thought you had a 'wing-walker' in the family, did ya!"

“Storytelling, for the most part, has become a lost art in our society. It's a real shame because I believe it's part of our heritage. All throughout history stories were told and retold through the generations to eager young listeners who would, with the advancement of years, become storytellers themselves. Young people would learn of the lifestyles and adventures of their forefathers, and would thereby gain a better understanding of where they came from, not to mention fostering a sense of imagination”. – Rick

THE BEAST

by Roy Anderson

Chapter Four The second day of cutting the tall grass in the area around the headstones was completed. Now the bases of the markers would have to be trimmed. Trimming would be simple, pulling the grass out at the bases so no problem, lets pull.

After trying to pull and clean the first tombstone I found the task quite a bit harder and very slow going.

When lunch time rolled around the sun would be high in the sky, turning the are of the cemetery into a oven.

I knew from the position of the sun it was lunch time.

Also my mother would call out from the house veranda "Lunch" nothing mystic here.

The Saturday was warm, especially for early June and of course, I was asked by my mother "should I take a break because of the heat, then go back when the tree shadows cooled the area."

When a suggestion or question was asked by Mom, you knew it was really a request and it was best followed.

As I sat on the veranda in the swing, watching the sun move slowly from high noon and began to drop towards afternoon and setting, the tree shadows began to extend across the front yard. They in my mind looked like fingers from a giant creature searching for a victim.

It was also perhaps that when I was younger my older brothers told me that when people went missing or reported. as lost in a forest, the trees took them and only released the ones they did not want.

As I sat after lunch for an hour or so, the temperature began to drop a few degrees, assisted by a breeze bringing the coolness from the bush area.

I called out to my Mom, " I'm going to the cemetery." Making my way, instead of cutting thru the wooded area, along the outside along the laneway, then over the fence to the cemetery. I began to notice different strange feeling, ones, I could not explain.

I knew we all have sensed the feeling of being watched not just in the woods, but everywhere, but at home or in the building and of course laneways between budlings in cities and villages.

Despite this overwhelming sense of apprehension the effort to clean the deserted graveyard was stronger. Approaching the old gate, that was normally closed or at least I thought I closed it. The gate was open completely. Entering the area I checked the gate, especially the chain to see if the wind or possibly a wild animal or the farmers cows had pushed it open. To my surprise the chain was

wrapped neatly over one of the fence sections as if a human hand did so.

I then thought my brothers were trying to spook me. If they did try, they dam near succeeded.

Without further hesitation and exclaiming to myself, " lets get er done."

It was not much of effort to clean out the tall grass and weeds along the cedar hedge bordering the cemetery. The large scythe moved effortless cutting as if possessed.

After clearing the hedge my thoughts and effort would be to clean the base of the tombstones. This effort meant pulling the weeds and tall grass by hand.

Once again a effort that I expected to be time consuming was effortless and was soon completed.

The last grave marker was very large and exceptionally intricate.

Cleaning out the are at the back of the marker. The back was very plain.

As I moved to the front area of the monument continuing to pull and cut the grass and weeds and vines that had over grown around it. On the last pull of the vine, removing it, exposing the inscription on the face I dropped the vine, stepping back in fear as I read the name and was confronted with a very detailed engraving of a historical Locomotive engine. It was very old, one with the tunnel smoke stack trailing a stream of smoke behind.

More shockingly was the detailed full scale face of a male, bearded face complete with an engineer hat, but more fearful was how his face was etched in such a cold manner almost as if he was glaring, with a slight curl of a smile or grin. Stepping back from the headstone a bit fearful. I continued on my task keeping a eye on the tombstone.

Time seemed to slip by quickly and soon the cemetery was cleared of the weeds and the grass. If I may gloat a bit, it certainly looked excellent.

The sun was setting slowly and casting shadows of the large pines across the ground. This of course brought back the highly intelligent statement previously spoken by my brothers. "You know the shadows of the trees are searching for victims."

I gathered the tools to return them, as I slowly walked towards the gate for reason unknown at the time. I leaned the tools against the fence, returning to the first tombstone, that was of the youngest, only months old. I slowly rubbed my hand across the marker stating "I'm so sorry about what happened years ago to you."

Not prepared for what happened next. A image appeared of a babe, dressed in real early clothes laid in a crib. Eyes closed, at peace, seated beside was a woman distraught face. More shocking to myself, was a man elegantly dressed, bearded standing beside the woman. His face was etched on the large elegant monument.

I kneeled beside the first marker for sometime, and as the sun slowly sunk in the afternoon, I completed the same gestor on each and every monument. As I did so images of the same appeared. Now in a panic as I approached the last monument, the large intricated one. I hesitated but not being harmed previous I reached out laying my hand palm down. The image that flashed was very disturbing. It showed the very same woman seated beside a man laying at rest, dressed in the suit a train engineer would wear.

Completing the task of toughing every tombstone and now scared beyond reason, turning, headed for the gate , a little faster than usual.

The gate previously opened wide against the cedar hedge, began slowly moving towards me. With all the previous happenings till in my mind, I

stopped and the gate stopped a foot or so in front of me.

Without any idea of how to react, I did the normal human reaction of extending my hand forward. The gate moved slowly forward until it reached my extended hand then gently stopped, At this time my feeling of self importance turned to survival and at the same time keeping some self esteem, turned towards the gate opening leading the gate as one would with a horse or other livestock. Reaching the gate entrance with the gate in tow, the second occurrence was about to come about.

When the task of cutting and pulling the grass and weeds was completed they Sycle an scythe, the tools used. I know I stood them on the inside of the fence, right at the gate post.

When reaching the post to tether the gate by the chain, the tools were outside, neatly stacked.

Closing the gate and pulling the chain over the hook, stepping back I admired my handywork, still unknown to myself to this day. I spoke out-loud "Looks good, but needs flower. I'll bring some for the graves."

Still standing for a moment the third occurrence happened. A voice, a very distinctive voice, very clear replied, "Thank You." I stood very still. Looking around for the source there was none. As I looked over the surrounding hedge and area to see if my brother's were playing tricks on me, at my reaction, they would of course responded by saying some smart remark. The entire cemetery was empty.

With my stare, I scanned the tombstones one by one, upon reaching the large one with the face and train I recoiled in horror. The face clearly etched on the monument was gone.

Valour and bravery went out the door, and if a 11- or 12-yearold has hair at the nap of his neck and back, mine was standing straight out.

With our delay I left and putting it bluntly " to hell with pine tree shadows and the trees looking for a victim."

The shortest road home was through the wooded area and that my friends was the route I was taking.

Arriving home my Mother questioned me, "what's the hurry?"

Now the answer would be "I heard a voice" then a full explanation of everything.

Now Mom standing very still, then turning very slowly, smiled, then in an assuring voice "Oh it's just your imagination." Then continued "I tell you what. Lets get the small wagon out, then gather up some wild flowers, then go out to the cemetery and plant them at the base of the tombstones."

After Mom and myself finished at the cemetery, returning home to just rest sitting on the large porch in the coolness of dusk. It was soon time to go indoors. Upon entering the house my heart dropped a bit. In the dining room were boxes of articles that were not needed for everyday. I realized that moving from the farm was coming closer.

The thought of leaving was both one of sadness and wonder.

Sadness because of leaving and wonder of what a new village and school could be.

Mother explained to me the move would not be for at least three weeks.

That evening as I made my way for bed, there was no indication of what the farm would do be bringing terror or memories in my mind.

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Renovations Additions Piers Interior Finishing Exterior Finishing

LIONS COMMUNITY REPORT September

by Jim Empringham, Apsley and District Lions Club

It is hard to believe that we are heading into Fall! We have enjoyed a great summer with warm temperatures and enough rain to keep the bush rela vely safe. Now we head into the colours that make our area such a popular des na on. Our Club and community had many ac vi es that created fun for full- me and seasonal residents alike.

The Lions Annual Giant Flea Market was held on July 20 & 21. This really is a community event that meets the needs and interests of all. The line up for entry began at 6:30 am again this year and by the me the doors opened at 8:30 the people were standing all the way around to and along McFadden Rd. The pictures of items for sale posted on-line in the lead up to the sale seemed to really a ract buyers who knew what they were looking for.

Purchases began virtually from the moment people walked onto the arena floor. The excitement of the day is something that really adds to the spirit of the Flea Market. Everyone seems to recognize that, while this is a great opportunity to find bargains, the real benefit is to our community which the funds raised support. Thanks to everyone for their par cipa on either as volunteers, Lions or buyers. We could not do this without your generous support. Thank you!

Our Lions food service was set up at the Jack Lake Rega a on August 4. This is always a fun event for par cipants and Lions. We enjoy feeding young and old. Thanks to the organizers for invi ng us again this year.

On August 22, we provided food services for the gradua on exercises at the Compass Day Care located at Apsley Central PS. It was fun to see the smiling faces of the newest genera on of students making Apsley proud.

Wednesday, September 18 is Euchre night at NKCC. Admission is $2 and play starts at 7:00 pm. Come out and enjoy a relaxed evening with friends new and old.

We will be at the Creekside Music Fes val doing a 50/50 draw on Friday.

Each year par cipants are very generous. Once again, all funds raised return to our community.

With fall approaching, our Club will be reviewing our fundraising ac vi es and confirming the budgeted use of the funds. We do our best to support individuals, groups and causes while trying to add to the experiences available in our community.

Our Lions Park re-vitaliza on is progressing. The new parking lot is complete and will provide safer parking for users of the park. Signage has been installed. Landscaping around the parking lot is underway. We hope to have the new soccer field created some me this fall for use in the spring. Our goal is to create a park that can serve the needs and interests of young and old. None of this could be possible without the tremendous support we get from our community members both permanent and seasonal.

We con nue to work hard to be a part of our community. If you would like more informa on about Lions contact Brenda Lenson (705-656-9254). If you would like to become a member of our Club, please contact our Membership Chair Una Warner (613-334-9867). Come out and enjoy being a part of the fun!

EASY BREAKFASTS FOR BACK TO SCHOOL

By Denise Dunford and Helena McMann

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars

for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.

Freezing Instruc ons: Freeze squares in single layers between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-friendly container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Find it online: h ps://sallysbakingaddic on.com/pumpkin-chocolate-chip-oatmealbars/

Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole

Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes Yield: serves 12 Ingredients 4 cups (175g or 6 oz) cubes of crusty bread Ingredients 1 teaspoon olive oil 3 cups (255g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats or quick 1 pound ground pork sausage, casings oats (not instant)* removed 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or Italian 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice* seasoning, op onal 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 3/4 cup (100g) chopped yellow onion 1/2 teaspoon salt (1/2 of a large onion) 1 cup (225g) fresh or canned pumpkin puree 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/3 cup (56g) unsweetened applesauce* 2 cups (275g or 9–10 oz) chopped bell peppers 1/3 cup (70g) coconut oil, melted 1 cup (100g or 3 oz) sliced mushrooms 1/3 cup (80ml) pure maple syrup 1 cup roughly chopped fresh spinach 1/4 cup (45g) coconut sugar (or packed brown sugar) 12 large eggs 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup (135g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, plus a few to 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper press into the top 2/3 cup (160ml) milk or half-and-half* Instruc ons 1 cup (100g or 3.5 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line the bo om and sides op onal garnish: green onion and/or chopped parsley of an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment Instruc ons paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to li the bars out Grease a 9×13-inch or any 3–4-quart oven-safe dish. Arrange bread cubes (makes cu ng easier!). Set aside. in an even layer in bo om of pan.

Pulse the oats in a food processor or blender un l they’re Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and slightly broken up. (For whole oats, about 10 pulses. For rosemary/Italian seasoning, if using, and break up the sausage into bitequick oats, about 5-6 pulses.) Pour into a large bowl and size pieces with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula as it begins to cook. Add add the remaining ingredients. With a rubber spatula or the onion, garlic, peppers, mushrooms, and spinach and cook un l large spoon, s r together un l combined. Mixture/dough everything has slightly so ened and sausage is mostly cooked through, will be very heavy and thick. about 5–6 minutes.

Spoon mixture into prepared pan. Using the back of a flat Remove sausage and vegetable mixture from heat and spread in an even spatula or a spoon, spread and press it ghtly down into layer on top of bread. the pan. Make sure it’s flat and very compact, which helps Whisk the eggs, salt, pepper, milk, and cheese together. Evenly pour over guarantee the bars hold their shape. Dot a few chocolate sausage/vegetable mixture. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper on top. chips into the top—this is op onal and only for looks! I Cover casserole with plas c wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at usually use about 1-2 Tablespoons on top. least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours. (When ready to bake, allow to sit at Bake for 25-28 minutes or un l the edges are very lightly room temperature for 10–15 minutes as oven preheats.) browned and the center appears set. Avoid over-baking, Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C). Bake the casserole, uncovered, un l the which dries the bars out. top is golden, edges are crisp, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes Remove from the oven and cool in the pan at room out clean, about 40–45 minutes. temperature for 30-60 minutes. A er that, place the pan Cool for 10 minutes, then slice and serve. in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours un l chilled.

Le overs keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the Remove bars from the pan using the overhang on the sides microwave to your liking. Find it online: then cut into squares. h ps://sallysbakingaddic on.com/easy-make-ahead-breakfastCover le over bars ghtly and store at room temperature casserole/ Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 2 hours (includes cooling) Yield: 16 bars

Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 15mins Ingredients 8 Flakey Bu ermilk Biscuits 1 pound pork sausage 2 Tablespoon + 1 teaspoon(s)s allpurpose flour 2 1/2 cups half and half 1 Tablespoon bu er 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme 1/8 teaspoon dried crushed rosemary 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes freshly ground black pepper , to taste Instruc ons Brown sausage in a large saucepan. Use a paper towel to blot out most of the grease from the pan.

Add flour, bu er, and half & half. Cook on medium-low, s rring o en, for several minutes un l thickened.

Add thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes and black pepper.

Serve over warm biscuits.

Make ahead Instruc ons: You can make the gravy ahead of me and store it in a container in the fridge for 2-3 days, depending on the freshness of your ingredients. Rewarm on the stove, adding a splash of half and half or milk to thin it, if needed, and addi onal seasonings, to taste.

Freezing instruc ons: The biscuits can be stored in the freezer for 3-5 months.

Smoothies This is a family favourite in my house!!

When ya just cant get any nutri on into your teenager other than popcorn or energy drinks...make your own ENERGY drink...a delicious SMOOTHIE! Sneak in all the good stuff, mask it with fruit and yogurt, and VOILA! Mission accomplished OUR “GO TO” SMOOTHIE: Cup of Frozen Fruit (mixed berries) 1/2 Cup of Orange juice 1/2 C of Yogurt (I use plain greek) BIG Handful of Spinach 1/2 Banana 2 Tbsp of peanut bu er (I use almond bu er) Scoop of Protein Powder (I use Garden Path All in One) Throw in some ice cubes and water, blend un l smooth...makes 24 servings OTHER fun addi ons: hemp seeds, almond milk, celery, collagen, cocoa powder, ginger, more greens, like kale or cucumber

THINK TURTLE CONSERVATION

by Kelly Wallace

Let’s Protect Turtle Hatchlings At long last, Turtle Hatchling Season has arrived in Ontario! From midAugust to October, we are treated to one of nature's most remarkable spectacles. There's something magical about watching a turtle hatchling emerge from its nest and enter the water for the first me, ins nc vely knowing it's home. So many of us love turtle hatchlings because they symbolize new life, resilience, and the beauty of nature's cycles. Their vulnerability and determina on to survive despite numerous challenges evoke a sense of awe and a desire to help them.

As a community, we hold the key to helping turtle hatchlings survive. Let's explore how each of us can make a significant difference. We live in turtle country, and there is a very high probability of encountering a turtle hatchling during our travels or me spent outdoors near the water, in the garden, doing yard work, private or public property over next few weeks.

Hatching Process: The hatching process is a marvel to behold. It's a coordinated effort that takes days to unfold. A turtle hatchling can spend up to 3 days piping or breaking out of its egg using a temporary egg tooth, followed by 3 to 7 days to dig to the surface. Hatchlings ready to emerge o en wait for cooler temperatures and nigh me to minimize the risk of preda on and to avoid the dangers of overhea ng or dehydra on.

However, late a ernoon and early morning exits are also rou nely documented.

Leaving the Nest: Hatchling season is a vulnerable me for turtle hatchlings, who face dangers from roads, terrain, infrastructure, and predators such as raccoons, foxes, and birds. Their journey to water is risky, and your help can improve their chances of survival. Hatchlings can appear near wetlands, lakes, rivers, and unexpected places like driveways, playgrounds, parking lots, and private or public proper es. Be alert and cau ous outdoors. Check your yard before doing seasonal maintenance.

Helping a Hatchling to Water: If you find a hatchling, take it to the nearest body of slow-moving water within walking distance. Look for a shallow, vegetated area that provides cover and res ng spots. Avoid releasing hatchlings into open water, exposing them to predators like fish and birds.

Place the hatchling at the water's edge, allowing it to enter at its own pace. If releasing mul ple hatchlings, space them out, ideally 10 feet apart, to reduce the risk of predators targe ng clusters. Note: Do not release hatchlings into storm management ponds. They are rou nely dredged as per long-term opera on and maintenance requirements.

Overwintering: If a turtle nest has not hatched by mid-October, the hatchlings might be overwintering.

This means they will stay in the nest through winter. They rely on fat reserves, producing glucose and glycerol as an freeze to survive subfreezing temperatures. This tac c, common in Painted, Map, and Blanding's turtles, is also seen in other turtle species, with varying

success. The hatchlings emerge in spring when condi ons are favorable.

Injured Turtles: If you find an injured turtle, please call the Ontario Turtle Conserva on Centre, home of Ontario's Turtle Hospital (OTCC), at 705-7415000 when you are with the turtle. The OTCC is located in Peterborough, and they admit turtles from anywhere in Ontario. The OTTC will provide medical care at 'no' charge and have turtle taxi volunteers to assist with transporta on if you cannot drive the turtle to the OTCC. If you're interested in being a 'Turtle Taxi' volunteer, visit www.ontarioturtle.ca for more details.

Social Media: To protect hatchlings' whereabouts, don't share photos or posts on social media pla orms with exact loca ons; use generalized informa on. Sharing specific loca ons can a ract poachers and harm the hatchlings.

Wild & Free: Ontario turtles are a species at risk. Never take hatchlings home as pets. It is harmful to turtles and illegal. Under Ontario's Fish & Wildlife Conserva on Act, a maximum fine of $25,000 is imposed for removing, harming, or selling turtles from the wild. Such ac ons can disrupt the natural balance and lead to a decrease in the turtle popula on.

Create Safe Passage: Is your property turtle-friendly? To protect turtle habitats, preserve natural areas like wetlands, ponds, shorelines, and riverbanks, and make your property safe for hatchlings by removing obstacles and reducing hazards.

Avoid using gabion walls or riprap (loose stone) whenever possible. If necessary, ensure gaps in riprap are filled with 0.5 to 2.0-inch gravel or soil to prevent hatchlings from ge ng trapped. If using geotex le fabric, ensure it's well-buried to avoid frayed edges that can entangle hatchlings. Finally, be mindful of pet enclosures; dogs can uninten onally harm turtles. Ensure hatchlings cannot crawl under or through fence openings and other yard structures on their way to water.

Educate Others: Spreading awareness is crucial to protec ng species at risk.

Everyone has a role to play, and your help is not just valuable—it's invaluable in conserving turtles. By sharing this informa on with your friends, family, and neighbors, you are ac vely contribu ng to protec ng species at risk. Assis ng turtle hatchlings as they take their first steps—crossing roads, avoiding dangers, or reaching water safely—is a gra fying way to support the survival of a new genera on. By working together, we can give these hatchlings the best possible start on their journey."

To contact Think Turtle Conserva on Ini a ve, phone or text 647-6069537, e-mail thinkturtle@yahoo.com, or visit our website at www.thinkturtle.ca or Facebook group.

MEMORIES SHARED by MARJORIE

By Marjorie Wilson, Freelance

WW2 Tension and Worries (Part 1) A recent conversation has sparked some Some worries and concerns were not so hard memories of growing up during the to understand. Our village sat about 50 Second Great War. miles north of Montreal. It was thought that Can you imagine a child being afraid that a German U-boat could move up the St someone might learn the first name of her Lawrence River and deposit people who father? Her family had immigrated from might then make theirway to our village.

Europe many years before the war. They That could have been a problem since the had settled in what was then a remote part industry in Brownsburg was to produce of Hastings County. She could only ammunition for the war. Sabotage was a imagine the reaction of her school mates if worry. If you saw a young man on the street they knew her dad’s name was Adolph. not in uniform you really took note. Who This memory was to follow her the rest of was this fellow? Why was he in our village? her life.

The other area of concern was the air. Our One does wonder if other members of this village was definitely a “no fly zone”! Not far community in Hastings County suffered from us and just across the Ottawa River was from the prejudices of surrounding a Commonwealth Air Training facility at St settlements.

Eugene. Apparently some of those student My own memories of the war years include pilots needed to fine tune their sense of strange, in my eyes, practices of some direction. I remember running outside if I adults. My girlfriend, Roberta, had heard an aircraft. We were supposed to read grandparents whose last name was the letters or numbers off the underside of Z i m m e r . A g a i n , t h i s f a m i l y h a d the airplane then report it. If I was the only immigrated from Germany many years one to notice that craft they were “in luck”. before WW2. Some people in my village Try as I might my nearsighted eyes just did looked at this family with suspicion and not co-operate. tended to avoid them. When I told my I found out the hard way that everyone was mother that people were throwing out watched. One Sunday afternoon a group of dishes which had been made in Germany us girls decided to go for a walk. We were in a she just shrugged her shoulders and part of town near some ammunition storage assured me she had no intention of doing sheds. There were tall earth bunkers almost something so foolish. What a relief! I loved hiding the buildings. We were used to seeing my grandmother’s Bavarian tea set. this and really paid no attention to the area.

The German folks were not the only people For some reason I thought it was a good time looked on with some suspicion. I heard to take a photo of my friends. When we were people talking about Jewish people. The approached by a guard I thought he was only problem I could sort out seemed to be coming over to say “hello” to his niece. that they were making money. Why that Imagine my surprise and chagrin when he was a problem was hard to understand. took my camera, then opened it up to expose Were they suspected of being dishonest? I the film. He did have a point as I had used never did figure that one out. those bunkers as the background in my photo.

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Vintage Bavarian Tea Set

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