Kawartha Social - November 2023

KAWARTHA

FALL & WINTER 2023

Destination

ways to stay active

Local fall winter

on Dreamers

Holiday more

Shop Local in Kawartha Lakes

Explore local stores www.explorekawarthalakes.com/shoplocal

12 18 Kawartha Social is published three times per year in April, July and November. It is distributed to high traffic locations across Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes.

Fireside Publishing House family of magazines is independent and 100% local, based in the Kawartha Region.

Publisher: Roderick Benns

Art Direction + Design: Barton Creative Co. Christina Dedes

Editor/Business Development: Rebekah McCracken

Photographers: Sienna Frost Roderick Benns Rebekah McCracken

Contributors: Denise Waldron Rebekah McCracken Erica Ehm Monika Kerschl Rachel Kerschl Tim Wisener Chris Van Lierop Mister Mystic Printed By: Cofax Printing

Being Tracy

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KAWARTHA SNAPSHOT

HOME

A glimpse of our community across the Kawarthas

Home decor styles with Tim + Chris

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STAY FIT

FASHION FILE

8 ways to not be a slug this winter; get out there and have fun while getting fit

Check out the trends and make room in your closet

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

CANVAS

Web Developer: Kimberly Durrant

Shop Local, Shop Kawarthas

Wanderlust

Cover image: Tracy Richardson on her property in Pontypool.

Photo: Sienna Frost.

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Please send advertising or editorial inquiries to Rebekah McCracken at rebekah@lindsayadvocate.ca or by calling 705-328-5188, or to Cara Baycroft by calling 905-431-4638.

PRIVACY POLICY: Kawartha Social is independently owned & operated. The opinions expressed herein are the views of the contributors & do not necessarily reflect those of this magazine. Photos, text & art work contained in Kawartha Social are copyrighted & may not be published, broadcast or rewritten without the express permission of the Publisher. Liability for incorrectly displayed advertising is limited to publishing corrections or advertising credit for subsequent issues. The Publisher reserves the right to reject, revise, cancel, omit, discontinue or even decline to print advertising without reason or liability, & without notice. The Publisher has made every effort to ensure information contained herein was accurate at press time. The Publisher does not assume & hereby disclaims any liability to any party for damage, loss, or disruption caused by errors or omissions.

TEAM SOCIAL

REBEKAH MCCRACKEN EDITOR

COVER STORY

RODERICK BENNS PUBLISHER

DENISE WALDRON WRITER

DESTINATION WEDDINGS

GROOVE

Get hitched in the heat

The Offering

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EHMBRACE

WORDS

Erica Ehm on dreamers + doers

Grab a book and get cozy

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EXPLORE KAWARTHA REGION

HOROSCOPES

9 places to get cultured in the Kawarthas this winter

Words of wisdom from a local astrologer

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GATHER

PET PARENTS

Plan your holiday party without breaking the piggy bank

With Samantha and Gertie

NOVEMBER 2023 • VOLUME 01 • ISSUE 01 | 3 SIENNA FROST PHOTOGRAPHER

CHRISTINA DEDES DESIGNER

ROBYN BARTON DESIGNER

CARA BAYCROFT ADVERTISING SALES

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HELLO FRIENDS

WELCOME TO KAWARTHA

I am thrilled to introduce you to this premier lifestyle publication dedicated to bringing local people together over a shared love of community, culture, food, fashion, fitness and home.

Even before my years of working in fashion retail, this has been a bucket list career goal of mine. Lifestyle magazines mirror the community we live in – such as the amazing people we interact with and the exciting ways we choose to come together. The idea to create a local version here at Fireside Publishing House was a vision I couldn’t wait to explore.

We are a region that supports one another, something this magazine embraces.

life in the Kawarthas is infectious. Our fashion section will showcase the latest trends for the upcoming season, while our beauty experts will share tips for achieving flawless hair. We also look at some of the best this area has to offer in the world of music, art and home decor.

I never thought I would have the opportunity to meet, let alone work with the fabulous Erica Ehm. Her column speaks to the people out there who are determined and ready to take on the world.

She is inspiring and warm and we are so lucky to have her here in the Kawarthas, and as a part of this magazine.

We are committed to bringing you high-quality content that informs, entertains, and inspires. Our goal is to create a community of like-minded individuals who share our passion for living life to the fullest.

We hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed creating it! A huge thank you to our Kawartha Social team. Without you, this dream would not be a reality.

Please reach out anytime at rebekah@ lindsayadvocate.ca and let us know what you think of our first issue.

Happy reading,

Our team is passionate about exploring the Kawartha Region and sharing their discoveries. We believe that life is an adventure, and we want to help you make the most of it.

In this issue, we have some exciting features. The beautiful (both inside and out) Tracy Richardson is our cover story

by Denise Waldron. Her enthusiasm for

KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 5

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SNAPSHOT

PLACES WE’VE BEEN. PEOPLE WE’VE SEEN. A GLIMPSE OF OUR COMMUNITY ACROSS THE KAWARTHAS. 1.

We happened to catch SJ Riley, a Peterborough-based singer, performing at Needful Things in Lindsay for the launch of Y-Drive in Kawartha Lakes.

Photo: Roderick Benns.

2.

Lindsay + District Chamber of Commerce President Dawn McColl with local supply chain expert Bob Armstrong at Celebrations in Lindsay. Armstrong was the chamber’s guest speaker for Small Business Week. Photo: Roderick Benns.

3.

Lindsay’s downtown BIA hosted a Hunter’s Moon night with music, food, and shopping. Photo: Sienna Frost.

4.

Long-time friends at the 25th anniversary fashion show for Brittany N Bros.

L to R: Cheryl Rainey, Cheryl Reid, Olga Everson, Tammy Thompson Letham.

Photo: Sienna Frost.

5.

Bumped into Luis Segura (left), hip hop artist, at Thrive Coworking Community at a party for Kawartha Small Business Podcast. Beside Segura is Andrew Archibald of The Prodigal Farmer and Jess Spagnolo of Thrive. Photo: Roderick Benns.

6.

Cathy Urbankiewicz and Marcel Loignon, consultants from IG Wealth in Lindsay, welcomed people to the Flato Academy Theatre for a special comedy night in late September. Photo: Rebekah McCracken.

7.

Kawartha Lakes Mayor Doug Elmslie was on hand for the ribbon cutting for Richmond Staffing, which has expanded its operations to Lindsay from Richmond Hill. The mayor is seen here with Baseer Moe, principal consultant at Richmond. Photo: Roderick Benns.

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KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 7

STAY FIT

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AWESOME WAYS TO STAY ACTIVE OUTDOORS THIS WINTER BY DENISE WALDRON

When the temperatures drop, there is no shortage of places to play in the Kawarthas. With an extensive network of immaculate, snow-covered trails spanning thousands of kilometres, you can indulge in activities like snowmobiling, skiing, hiking, or venturing out with snowshoes. You’ll find both natural and man-made ice surfaces perfect for attempting a triple salchow, as well as hills and elevations of varying heights that invite you to experience the thrill of gravity on a toboggan.

TOBOGGANING ICE SKATING Outdoor rinks are places where children first discovered the joy of skating, dreamt of becoming figure skaters or hockey players, where families are social and played shinny, crack the whip, and tag and where many first kisses took place. Of course, the exhilaration of fresh air and exercise and the chance to see a million stars under the evening skies cannot be overstated.

The City of Peterborough maintains the ice surface on the canal below the Peterborough Lift Lock, as weather conditions allow. The Quaker Foods City Square also turns into an outdoor skating rink for community use in the winter. There are 12 outdoor community rinks cared for by volunteers as well. Kawartha Lakes has nine outdoor community rinks in Lindsay, Burnt River and Bobcaygeon.

Natural rinks on local lakes, rivers and ponds offer skaters other options to lace up around the Kawarthas too.

8 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

Physicists will tell you toboggans launch from some height and then fall to a lower height — letting gravity do all the work. If you are short on sleds, regular household items can be used too. Pieces of cardboard, baking or cafeteria trays, or hockey bags can be used in a pinch.

Like many leisure and sport activities in Canada, Indigenous people first designed handmade toboggans to get people and goods around. In time, sledding evolved into recreation and was an enjoyable way to embrace winter.

While children think they are just having fun, there are also benefits to their health from sledding. Tobogganing strengthens their lower bodies, improves balance, flexibility, bone density and enhances cardio from repeated hill climbing.

Mayor Flynn Park in Lindsay is a popular sledding spot along with Armour Hill, The Old Ski Run Hill at Trent University, Jackson’s Park, Corrigan’s Hill and Prince of Wales Public School in Peterborough. Google maps has local hill locations.

SNOWSHOEING Canada’s First Nations perfected the snowshoes we wear today, thousands of years ago, as a necessity to get around in winter.

In modern times, we may have been stuck inside during blizzards when the ploughs were sidelined and diapers or baby formula were scarce. Snowshoes are the perfect MacGyver when you must get out, as their large footprint spreads the user’s weight out and allows you to travel largely on top of the deep snow pack.

When you don a pair of snowshoes, you engage in a cardio workout comparable to running, as each step involves lifting your feet higher and bearing additional weight.

The slow pace and distribution of your weight also contributes to reduced strain on your joints. Other winter sports, such as skiing, require some level of skill, while snowshoeing does not, as it’s easy to learn. It’s also inexpensive and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels.

Snowshoeing does not require trails and allows participants to traverse areas waistdeep without issue. For those wanting trails, Trent University has 1,400 acres of land with 30 kilometres of trails in Peterborough. The cross-country trails in Kawartha Lakes are also used to snowshoe.

OUTDOOR GYMS Do you desire the feeling of a gym workout without the cost of pricey memberships or trading winter colds inside one? Outdoor gyms are in many locales, including Kawartha Lakes and Peterborough. Outdoor gym exercise provides vitamin D, unlike indoor exercise along with increased blood flow, flexibility, endurance, improved cardio and strength.

The Rotary Outdoor Gym in Peterborough is in Beavermead Park, beside the beach.

It features 12 low-impact stations with some accessible for people with disabilities.

Fenelon Falls also has an outdoor gym near the beach at Lloyd Kelly Parkette behind the Red Apple. It is open 24/7 with activity stations that have no barriers to access. The idea behind the Fenelon Falls Senior’s Play Park is for older adults or those with mobility challenges to improve their overall health and fitness and reduce isolation. All ages are welcome.

ICE FISHING If you have fishing fever year-round, ice fishing is a must. Perch, bluegills and crappie are plentiful in the Kawartha Region, with numerous easy-access ice fishing options around.

Rice Lake and Chemong Lake are close to Peterborough and Lake Scugog and Balsam Lake offer excellent ice fishing as well to the northern part of Kawartha Lakes.

Many public boat launches have winter access with free parking along the side of the road.

You can rent huts, but if you have a six-inch ice auger, you can be fishing and catching dinner in no time on your own after a quick drill of a hole.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING Nordic skiing offers a unique exhilaration distinct from its downhill counterpart, with quiet charm and slow, unhurried exercise.

While it may not deliver the adrenaline surge of whooshing downhill at high speeds, it has a tranquil connection to nature’s beauty. It provides an opportunity to explore beloved summer landscapes, now transformed into a serene, glistening wonderland.

In contrast to its downhill counterpart, cross-country skiing is a budget-friendly option, with some trail locations providing affordable rental services. If you have your own equipment, there are no expenses associated with exploring certain parks and woodlands.

Dave Dame was exposed to Nordic skiing as a teen in Toronto, but said it was difficult to ski there. He and his wife Amanda moved to Peterborough and started the Peterborough Nordic Club, which grooms the Trans Canada trail in Jackson Park. The club grooms trails for two types of skiing — skating and classic.

Dame said last year, he managed to ski 50 days in the park due to his four-minute commute from home.

While many outdoor winter activities result in children complaining about feeling cold and wanting to leave, cross-country skiers typically enjoy a comfortable level of warmth.

Dame said typically with Nordic skiing, you’ve got a long commute to drive to the trails and commit a day to it. He said it is not environmentally friendly to drive your car a long distance, and for young children, they are usually done in 30 to 60 minutes. “So it made skiing accessible right here in the city,” he said of the local park. “If things go south, then you want to be home having hot chocolate very quickly.”

The club has about 100 paying members, but the trails are available to all. He said it’s a unique scenario, because they don’t have closed trails, or own them. “The Otonabee Conservation Authorities owns them, so we just have permission to groom them, and then we ask people for donations.”

Dame said given Jackson Park is central to Peterborough, and everybody’s within a short distance, so skiing is accessible right in the city. “When you can get out at lunch hour or get out in the morning, or get out after work for a quick rip, there’s really no excuses.”

In Kawartha Lakes there are more than 600 km of trails spread across the rural city, many linking charming communities together. The Ganaraska Trail, the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail, and the Victoria Rail Trail Corridor have several access points in different areas of Kawartha Lakes.

FOREST BATHING While forest bathing sounds like an unpleasant way to get clean, it doesn’t involve nudity or soap in the frozen outdoors. With its Japanese roots, Shinrin-yoku means taking in the forest through our senses. Forest bathing is offered at Ken Reid Conservation Area in Lindsay and is best done alone, or with a small group. “Forest therapy provides many benefits, including physical, emotional, and spiritual,” said Kristie Virgoe, director of Stewardship and Conservation Lands and a certified forest therapy guide. “Physiological benefits include lower blood pressure and improved immune system functioning.”

The gentle, slow walks are not exercise, hiking, or jogging. It is simply a way to connect with nature through our senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch. “By reducing stress hormones like cortisol, this allows for the production of serotonin. This improves our emotional stability and increases our sense of hope,” Virgoe adds.

CURLING This one may not be outside but it’s uber fun.

Curling originated in Scotland and came to Canada in 1807. The Peterborough Curling Club has been in operation since 1876.

In the beginning, to pass time in the winter, curlers would take any kind of stones they could find and throw them down the ice. Rules were loose and brooms were not thought to be used.

Thankfully, today, the rocks and brooms, along with the rules, are standardized. The sport of curling is age and gender neutral.

While physical fitness is important, playing doesn’t require extreme athleticism.

Even those who use a wheelchair can participate in curling.

Local clubs in Woodville, Lindsay, Fenelon Falls, Bobcaygeon, Ennismore and Peterborough offer leagues, lessons, tournaments and a chance to imbibe cold ones after a game in their lounges.

KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 9

SHOP LOCAL

KIMONOS, $170 Kent Florist, 92 Kent St. W, Lindsay kentflorist.net

TAPERED CANDLES SET, $27 Kent Florist, 92 Kent St. W, Lindsay kentflorist.net

WOMEN’S 1351 HIGH TOP RUSTIC BROWN BLUNDSTONES, $265 Brittany N Bros, 109 Kent St W, Lindsay brittany-and-bros.myshopify.com

★ 2023

LOVE SEAT SOFA, FEATHER FILLED WITH INVISIBLE STITCH, $2,050 Kate & Co., 32 Kent St. W, Lindsay katecohome.com

CHRISTMAS TRUCK + TRAILER SALT + PEPPER SHAKER, $12 Wall It Wall Art, 18 Cambridge St. S, Lindsay wallitwallart.ca 10 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

GIFT GUIDE BRUMATE HOPSILATOR TRIO 3 IN 1 THERMAL DRINK HOLDER, $56 Wall It Wall Art, 18 Cambridge St. S, Lindsay wallitwallart.ca

SATSUMA BATH BOMB, $12.50 Gridley’s Bath Body & Home. 73 Kent St. W, Lindsay, gridleys.ca

1803 SOY WAX CANDLES, $35 Olde Mill Home. 148 Kent St W, Lindsay.

(705) 328-2121

SHOP KAWARTHAS

CANDY CHARCUTERIE BOARD, $35+ Burns Bulk Food, 118 Kent St W, Lindsay (705) 324-8501

ORIGINAL BUDDHA BOARD, $40 Room by Tim + Chris. 36 Colborne St, Fenelon Falls

HOME SWEET HOME 16OZ. SOY WAX CANDLE, $28 Hand poured in the Kawarthas, kawarthacandle.co

“Always give without remembering and always receive without forgetting.”

PETAL GOLD WALL MIRROR, $145 Home Design Centre, 2912 Hwy 35 S, Lindsay (705) 320-9888

– Brian Tracy

SHAMPOO + CONDITIONER BAR TRAVEL SET, $42.50 Unwrapped, 112 Kent St. W, Lindsay unwrappedkawartha.com

HAND POTTERED TRAY, $116 Made in Sutton, Quebec Room by Tim + Chris, 36 Colborne St, Fenelon Falls

CANDY CAKES, $100+ Burns Bulk Food, 118 Kent St W, Lindsay (705) 324-8501

HANDMADE SPOUTED BOWL FOR MATCHA, DRESSINGS OR SAUCES, $35 By aleathabean Pottery, Unwrapped, 112 Kent St. W, Lindsay, unwrappedkawartha.com KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 11

COVER STORY

TRACY RICHARDSON IN HER GREENHOUSE. ALL PHOTOS: SIENNA FROST.

BEING TRACY Tree specialist. Newish grandma. City councillor.

Pontypool’s Tracy Richardson on her Kawartha Lakes life and the things that keep her going.

BY DENISE WALDRON

Tracy Richardson breezes into city hall in Lindsay, ready for our 10 am chat. While most of us strive to fit a solid eight hours of work into our day, Richardson, who is currently serving her second term as Ward 8 councillor and holds the position of Kawartha Lakes deputy mayor, has already invested four-and-a-half hours into her day’s endeavours.

City Hall. She says she is equally comfortable dressed up, too. But today, she will be mostly outside in rural areas, responding to locals. First, she will attend the Omemee Municipal building for a “Did You Know” customer experience survey, and then to Emily East to meet residents to look at and discuss drainage and road concerns, and a planning application.

Her usual morning kicks off at 5:30 am, with a steaming cup of java and sometimes a brisk walk to invigorate her senses. She then delves into email correspondence, attends meetings, returns calls, meets with residents and navigates the occasional crisis. Yet her responsibilities do not end there. Once home, Richardson whips up a homemade, healthy meal.

She receives several text notifications in our one-hour meeting and her phone rings three times. “I don’t turn off my job very often. If someone’s reaching out to me, it’s because they have concerns,” she said, adding even if it’s something she can’t solve right now, she will look into it and get back to them.

“I love to cook,” she says, and likes to take off, when possible, for a five-kilometre walk around her neighbourhood in Pontypool after dinner. If there’s any extra time, this whirling dervish, and self-proclaimed Type A personality, might use any leftover time to water trees in the greenhouse, maintain her vegetable garden and can produce for the larder. She sometimes fits in some golf, volleyball, or baseball.

But work still beckons and she will respond to any remaining emails before heading to bed.

Richardson is wearing casual denim shorts, a Kawartha Lakes t-shirt, and flats on this particular late summer morning as she prepares for her work day outside

“I think a lot of folks just need to have that reassurance,” they are being heard.

Kawartha Lakes Mayor Doug Elmslie says Richardson is always prepared at meetings and is very involved in her community. “She’s not afraid to say when she can’t do something and usually what she does, rather than phone the person and tell them, (is) show up at their door and tell them face-to -face.”

As deputy mayor, Richardson steps in for Elmslie when he’s unavailable and handles city affairs in a mayoral capacity. She collaborates closely with him on various matters, and they keep each other in the loop. Additionally, part of her responsibility as deputy mayor involves providing support to fellow councillors, which proves beneficial, given that half of the

new councillors are neophytes.

Richardson has embraced her community since growing up in Janetville with her younger brother, Kevin. She says he is one of her best friends. Their dad worked at GM in Oshawa and retired as volunteer fire chief in Janetville. Their mother worked at a government service centre in Whitby and later with small businesses in Lindsay and was one of the founders of the Lindsay Dragonflies.

To Richardson, her parents were her North Star. She said even when they were in a bad spot, they still managed to do things with dignity. “So that’s what I have to always remember — those grassroots.”

Richardson has sentimental memories of the village and the annual fall fair. “All the small towns had the fall fairs, and that brought the community together, and you knew everybody.” She remembers feeling like the little Janetville general store and post office miles away, when really it was just a quarter-of-a-kilometre up the road. She smiles at the memory of buying candy for a dime and those early years in her neighbourhood.

Richardson’s community involvement started at a young age in Janetville. She joined every local group — 4-H, Brownies (now called Embers), Girl Guides and played many sports.

She attended Grandview Public School, then by high school at I.E. Weldon in Lindsay.

KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 13

COVER STORY

Richardson said she made significant memories at Weldon and loved the athletic program. “I was definitely into sports,” adding she was a long-distance runner and participated in track and field. She also played soccer saying it was a “natural fit,” because she had good endurance.

Jan Sanderson was Richardson’s Grade 9 physical education teacher at Weldon and described her as a skilled athlete.

She said even at that age, there were signs her student was suited to a life of public service, dealing with people. “She was bright, positive and had a lovely way with classmates and teachers,” and adds she is the same person now as she was then. “I think she brings those same qualities to council.”

down because she was defending the children.

He also notes his wife of 35 years isn’t reactive. “If somebody challenged her, she would always think about it, figure it out, and then discuss it with them.”

Richardson’s work ethic is another quality her husband appreciates, as it extends to various tasks, including yard and garden work. The councillor enjoys operating her own zero-turn, 25 hp mower and taking care of the grass. She is proficient with power tools, owning her own toolbox and various yard work implements.

Her skills don’t stop there; she confidently operates a front-end loader, handles eight different types of tractors, and can drive trucks.

While many small-town students leave for post-secondary education, vowing to never return, Richardson felt the pull of her community. “I really just loved where I lived and I don’t think I ever had that thought.”

It was during this time, she met her future husband Paul, while working at his parent’s farm business in Pontypool. She had many duties, from pulling weeds, to packaging trees, to whatever needed to be done. He describes her as a physical type of person, and “a good, heavy lifter.”

He says she is skilled in many ways and recalls a memory from Algonquin Park at Fog Lake when a friend from their group caught a fish. Someone said, “What do we do (with it) now?” Tracy grabbed and expertly filleted the fish—a skill she honed from her fishing days with her late father.

One of the qualities that drew her husband to Richardson was her unwavering dedication to advocating for others. He remembers a specific incident when she was coaching a team, and a friend observed a man confront her aggressively.

However, Richardson refused to back 14 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

That job — at Metroland Media Group through Kawartha Lakes This Week, saw her as a successful account executive for the first 20 years. She sold ads to small business owners, and those business owners often became friends. “It was kind of cool because I could talk the same lingo, because I, too, was a small business owner.”

For the next 10 years, Richardson changed her focus with Metroland and took on managing home and bridal shows for her employer while the print media landscape was changing. “I wanted more. I needed more. I needed to challenge (myself), and I didn’t want to go into management.”

During those years there was also lots of sports and coaching, sitting on local committees, volunteering, getting the boys to hockey, and donating Christmas hampers. All this she did while keeping family life humming along when her husband Paul was away on business. He recalls that “she never missed a beat.”

The future councillor studied business, economics, marketing and management at Durham College and Trent University.

(One wonders if this is an appropriate metaphor for her reputation as a councillor.)

large mortgage at that time to pay off everyone.” She was thankful that she “had a great job and was able to balance the house.”

“In an emergency, you need to know how to shut them off.”

She notes it is also handy when she wants to do yard or garden work and does not have to ask anyone for help.

The newlyweds settled into their life in Manvers Township and soon became parents to Lucas, Kyle and Jeffrey.

The councillor’s father-in-law started his farm in 1958. When he died, the couple purchased the family homestead, operating the third-generation native tree farm — where they live today in Pontypool. She remembers it being, “a lot of hard work because we had to get a very

The seeds of Richardson’s new journey began with the revelation that wind turbines were scheduled to be erected in the Manvers vicinity, alongside the impending closure of her neighborhood arena. One of these turbines was set to be positioned approximately 585 metres from her home. She believed many residents were uninformed about them. In response, Richardson took it upon herself to create posters and embarked on a 17-hour-long door-to-door campaign, striving to ensure every resident was enlightened about the potential impact.

Additionally, she organized a town hall meeting with the aim of raising further awareness. “I didn’t think I was being political.”

Soon after, the city received a report suggesting they close some arenas, including the Manvers Arena. With a fire in her belly, Richardson wrote a deputation to help save their beloved local ice pad. The city reversed the decision and the Manvers arena stayed open.

ONE OF THE QUALITIES THAT DREW HER HUSBAND TO TRACY RICHARDSON WAS HER UNWAVERING DEDICATION TO ADVOCATING FOR OTHERS.

After 30-odd years in media sales and managing large trade shows, Richardson was at a juncture in her life — not yet wanting to retire and unsure of her next step. She sat her family down and told them she was thinking of running for council and asked if she had their support. Her son, Kyle said, “You are already doing it,” saying she just needed to take it to another level.

and-desist orders against three residents that harassed her to the point where she had to call the police. Richardson says in these challenging times, she remembers her mother’s sage advice.

The 2018 municipal election saw 16 wards in the city whittled down to eight, with Richardson taking the seat in rural Ward 8.

During her tenure on council, the city has experienced significant growth, and in parallel, Richardson’s business and family have also thrived. As their sons matured, there was uncertainty about whether they would show interest in participating in the tree farm. However, they fully embraced the opportunity, and Richardson says their business benefits from a diverse team of experts.

Her husband taught tree propagation at Humber College, while their sons contribute with their expertise in horticultural engineering, urban forestry, and health science. Their farm now boasts annual sales of over one million trees and shrubs, and they’ve expanded their operations to include a 12,000 square foot greenhouse.

The new councillor jumped in and was in her wheelhouse helping residents, but on a broader scale. Richardson admits she has a soft heart. “If there’s something going on and something’s gone sideways, I’m one of the first ones at the door saying, ‘okay, what can I do to help you?’”

Newby councillors soon found that politicians’ actions play out for all to see and are often evaluated publicly, especially on social media. Given the sheer number of decisions they make, she soon realized politicians inevitably disappoint or enrage some residents at some point in time. Richardson notes sometimes it was hard to shake it off. The first year as a councillor she took everything personally and had some very low days.

Anecdotally, and in a study from Cambridge University Press, 2023, female politicians have it harder than their male counterparts with threats, abuse, and disinformation. The councillor has cease-

“Don’t let others define who you are.”

Richardson says she is okay defending herself, but says it is difficult when people harass her family with issues.

A mention of the family expansion to Richardson (she became a grandmother a couple years ago) and her face lights up with an ebullient smile. As grandmother to a toddler and two babies, she is called nanny. She chose the moniker for sentimental reasons, “because my mom was my hero and I loved the boys always calling her little nanny.” She talks about being surrounded by boys, noting

even their dog was male, “and then all of a sudden — bam — I’ve got all little girls, this little pink, little fun happening.”

Richardson says when her eldest granddaughter — who is just over two, runs and gives her a massive hug it, “just rights the world.”

Is there a post higher-up in the political food chain in the councillor’s future?

With three years left in the council mandate, Richardson will only say she is committed to mentoring the new councillors, “being community oriented,” and relishing her role as a girl grandma. “Nobody can explain how much a grandchild means to you.” KS

Denise Waldron is a local feature writer for the Advocate and Kawartha Social magazine. She is ordained and marries couples in the Kawarthas.

You will often find her enjoying the local culture and outdoor amenities in Kawartha Lakes.

KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 15

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FEATURE

SAY “I DO” ON THE BEACH Destination weddings offer unforgettable memories.

Tying the knot is exciting, but it can also be stressful. Wedding planning takes a lot of time, energy, and a healthy budget. The number of decisions couples must make can be overwhelming.

Along with jobs, family responsibilities, and bills to pay, it’s no wonder destination weddings are a popular way to tame wedding planning woes.

According to Cheryl McDonald, destination weddings are still in demand in the travel industry. “Logistically, everything is in one place, and they take care of everything there,” notes McDonald, a travel agent and owner of Cruise Holidays Plus in Lindsay.

McDonald, a 20-year-veteran of the industry, says couples are very conscious of budgets, and destination weddings often cost less than traditional weddings at home. “It depends on the supplier, but if you get a certain number of people booked, then the bride and groom get a complimentary trip,” noting that’s at the expense of all the guests as well.

To maximize the number of people that can attend, exotic destinations like Europe or Australia are eliminated as wedding spots because of the higher costs.

McDonald says most of her clients book their weddings in the Dominican Republic or Cuba. Couples can also book destination weddings on a cruise ship and have their ceremony onboard, in a port, or on a beach — presided over by the ship’s captain.

BY DENISE WALDRON

were laid out on a Pinterest board.

When she did find the perfect man, her wedding could not have been more different from her long-time nuptial plans. She and her fiancé, Spencer, a volunteer firefighter and traffic analyst, exchanged their vows alone on a beach in Saint Lucia under the tropical sun in April 2023. Their resort offered a free wedding ceremony for couples who stayed for seven nights, which included a complimentary cake, flowers, and the ceremony.

Along with the balmy weather and tropical libations, the bride also noted that snorkeling, bathing in volcanic mud, and rinsing off in a waterfall were not the only highlights of the Shumilaks’ wedding — it was also easy on the budget. “We didn’t want to spend a lot of money because it was just going to be the two of us.”

She and her fiancé, Spencer, a volunteer firefighter and traffic analyst, exchanged their vows alone on a beach in Saint Lucia under the tropical sun in April 2023.

To avoid any complications, most of McDonald’s couples get married before their destination weddings in a short, quick legal ceremony here. She says that getting marriage permits abroad involves many hoops to jump through and that such marriages may not be legal in Canada. “Don’t just assume that getting married down there is going to be easy,” adding if couples are set on a destination ceremony, their travel agent can advise them on the process.

Shumilak said their families and friends were supportive of the destination elopement but would have liked to have seen them tie the knot. They got their chance, as the couple did not have the correct documents to be legally married in Saint Lucia.

Paulina Shumilak, a cost analyst, had plans for her wedding since she was a child. She would marry the perfect man, and their wedding would include family, friends, and a big celebration at a farm with horses and hay. As she got older, her ideas

Shumilak is recommending destination weddings to everyone after tying the knot both ways, saying the little backyard wedding

18 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

Their second, legal ceremony was also by the water, but this time in August, in their backyard on Sturgeon Lake at Snug Harbour, with about 50 people in attendance.

ABOVE: PAULINA AND SPENCER SHUMILAK IN SAINT LUCIA THIS YEAR. LEFT: REILLY AND JESSICA EDWARDS WERE LEGALLY MARRIED IN VICTORIA PARK, LINDSAY, BEFORE THEIR DOMINICAN REPUBLIC CEREMONY.

KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 19

was extremely stressful. In contrast, the destination wedding was laid-back.

“Spencer and I got ready together in the morning. We were listening to music.

We were having coffee together. It was just very fun.”

Reilly and Jessica Edwards were legally married with two witnesses at Victoria Park in Lindsay, then went to the Dominican Republic for a seven-day wedding and honeymoon with family and friends in July 2022.

For groom Riley, who works in tech sales, there was a concern with getting married in another country and having it be a recognized marriage in Canada. “So rather than trying to make sure that all of the laws and regulations are in accordance with Canadian law, we figured it would just be easier to do it in advance.”

Bride Jessica, who is a teacher, said the destination wedding process was very hands-off, and she didn’t have to do anything. She met the wedding planner online and had the choice of how much she wanted to be involved in the process and was happy not to be heavily involved.

When the couple got off the plane, it was 20 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

like they were already on vacation. According to Jessica, “There was no stress at all. I didn’t know really any details beyond just the time and date and when I was getting my hair done,” adding it was very smooth sailing as everything was planned for them.

Another positive of their destination wedding, according to Jessica, was they could hang out and be with their guests all week. “It wasn’t just the one night where you’re rushing around trying to thank everybody and be with everybody.”

The day before the wedding, the bride and groom, along with their guests, went on a catamaran excursion together. “We just all really bonded before the wedding.”

Reilly said to add extra memories to the trip, the couple planned themed days including Canada Day and US Independence Day as they were there at the time. Another day centered around a Hawaiian theme.

To remember their time away, the couple also set up a group photo album for guests to add their own snaps as well.

Destination weddings can be great budget-stretchers too, noted Reilly. He estimated the same wedding in Canada would be between $80,000 - $100,000, while their bill came in around $10,000.

When inviting guests to a destination wedding, not everyone can afford the trip. Reilly said, “I think it really is one of the downfalls of a destination wedding with some of those prices. You have a family of five, you might be a young family and it’s hard to make it work.”

About 60 per cent of their guests could attend and for the ones that stayed home — the faux ceremony was livestreamed for them to enjoy.

One guest — a friend of the bride’s — loved the week so much that she has booked her own destination wedding next year through the same travel agency.

After a week in the sun and making new memories with family and friends, the Edward’s highly recommend destination weddings.

“It was very relaxing and easy.” KS

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KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 21

EHMBRACE

HERE’S TO THE

DREAMERS AND THE DOERS

BY ERICA EHM

I’ve met a lot of dreamers in my life, but fewer “doers.” There is a special kind of courage, focus and drive separating dreamers from doers. Stories of those who dare to turn dreams into reality remind us that the impossible is possible, and that we’re capable of more than we think.

Two years ago, I received a phone call from Sean Menard, a determined young filmmaker daring to do what many said was impossible – produce a documentary about the iconic Canadian music channel MuchMusic where I worked for 13 years. Several seasoned producers

had tried and failed to overcome the insurmountable odds of sweettalking Bell Media gatekeepers to release years of archival footage hidden away in their vaults.

To finance the film, Sean and his wife (who was also his producing partner) Molly mortgaged their home. This guy refused to be stopped. I agreed to act as consulting producer for him.

With skin in the game, he scored a deal with Bell Media to use their footage and dove into doing interviews with the “OGs” of Much from the 80s and 90s, me included.

ERICA EHM, CENTRE, WITH MANY OF HER MUCHMUSIC COLLEAGUES AT THE GALA OPENING OF THE NEW DOCUMENTARY, 299 QUEEN STREET WEST. PHOTO: GEORGE PIMENTEL.

22 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

After six years, 299 Queen Street West, named for the iconic building that housed The Nation’s Music Station, wrapped this spring. Screening copies were sent to the Toronto International Film Festival in the hopes of an exclusive Canadian premiere for his love letter to MuchMusic. To his surprise and disappointment, TIFF never responded. Sean’s dream of giving the gang at MuchMusic the red-carpet treatment was dashed.

Again, Sean wouldn’t give up. He reached out to iconic Toronto venue Roy Thomson Hall where TIFF holds many movie premieres and made history by being the first independent filmmaker to rent out the theatre himself. Nothing would stop him from turning this dream into reality.

What a night Sean pulled together for us.

Against all odds, the gala premiere sold out, fans lining the red carpet to interact with all their favourite MuchMusic hosts in person, together for the first time in decades. It was a night I’ll never forget.

You’ll be able to catch the documentary 299 Queen Street West on TV when it airs on Crave this December.

LOCAL MOVIE DREAMER Movie magic of a different kind is happening right here in Kawartha Lakes thanks to a dreamer named Keith Stata.

If you haven’t visited the beloved Highland Cinema yet, you are missing out on one of the quirkiest movie cinemas in the world.

It all started in 1979 when Keith’s passion for cinema leads him to build a single screen movie house in his tiny hometown of Kinmount. Over the next 40 years, Keith has transformed Highland Cinemas into a remarkable sprawling five-screen multiplex showing first-run films all summer to locals, visitors and cottagers.

While his business bustled, cinemas in small towns were shuttering. Keith began amassing old projectors, posters, and assorted movie paraphernalia to decorate the rambling halls of his multiplex. The Highland Cinema has become a treasure trove of pop culture memorabilia which he painstakingly updates every season. Come for a movie and enjoy Keith’s beautiful and bizarre movie museum.

A couple of cottagers who grew up

KEITH STATA, OWNER OF HIGHLAND CINEMA. PHOTO: MATT FINLIN.

watching movies at the Highland Cinema were filmmaker Matt Finlin and Barenaked Ladies’ Ed Robertson.

They have teamed up to make The Movie Man, a touching documentary celebrating Keith Stata’s dream and dedication to his iconic multiplex.

I had the great privilege of attending an early screening of The Movie Man in the Highland Cinema, surrounded by locals and movie lovers who lined up to pay tribute to this local legend. Watching the film, it’s clear that Keith is struggling to keep his cinema doors open these days.

COVID hit his business hard, and his age is making it challenging to cope with the manual work needed to maintain the huge property.

After a rousing standing ovation for this local hero, an audience member asked Keith what can be done to keep his cinema afloat. His answer was simple. Show

up and attend. Also, order lots of snacks at the concession stand which is where he makes his money. Not all of us are dreamers, but we can all support those who dare greatly. It’s one of the reasons I’ve chosen to become a contributor for this new magazine. It’s my way of supporting Roderick and Rebekah, the dream team behind Kawartha Social.

In this climate of shrinking local media, they are taking a great risk to make their dream of a local lifestyle magazine a reality, creating a family of magazines along with The Lindsay Advocate and The Business Advocate. I hope you support Kawartha Social by reading it, visiting the advertisers in it, and letting them know you saw their ad. Contribute in any way you can to make it a success.

Here’s to the dreamers and doers who make our world a more interesting place.

Life is better because of them.

Erica Ehm is a writer, entrepreneur, speaker, broadcaster, and former MuchMusic host. She’s at home in Toronto and Kawartha Lakes.

KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 23

EXPLORE KAWARTHA REGION

9 CULTURAL VENUES TO CHECK OUT THIS FALL AND WINTER The Kawartha Region offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences for visitors to explore. From art galleries and theatres to museums and arenas, this region provides a diverse array of cultural attractions. Here are just nine to take in this fall and winter.

THE ART GALLERY OF PETERBOROUGH

MARKET HALL Market Hall is a historic building and a performing arts centre in the heart of downtown Peterborough. It has been a place to gather and enjoy various events since 1892, when it was first built as the city’s market hall.

Today, Market Hall is a fully accessible, 350seat venue that hosts live theatre, music, dance, film, comedy, and more. You can see local, national, and international artists perform at this versatile venue throughout the year.

Don’t miss Terra Lightfoot on Nov. 30. This show is a celebration of her new record, which showcases her powerful vocals and guitar skills.

LINDSAY LITTLE THEATRE If you are looking for a place to experience the passion and creativity of live theatre in Kawartha Lakes, visit the Lindsay Little Theatre. The Lindsay Little Theatre is a community theatre group that has been producing quality shows for over 50 years.

With a cozy and intimate atmosphere, and a capacity of 150 seats the theatre offers a variety of shows throughout the year, featuring comedies, dramas, musicals, and more.

One of the upcoming shows that you don’t want to miss is Funny Money by Ray Cooney with multiple play dates in December.

The Lindsay Little Theatre also hosts various events and workshops, such as trivia nights, improv nights, film nights, and more.

24 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

The Peterborough Art Gallery is a free admission, non-profit public art gallery to discover and enjoy the artistic talents of local, regional, and national artists.

GLOBUS THEATRE To experience the best of Canadian theatre, visit Globus Theatre in Kawartha Lakes. Globus is a professional theatre company within Lakeview Arts Barn that produces and presents an eclectic and entertaining mix of shows throughout the year, featuring Canadian plays and work that is new to a Canadian audience. They have produced over 10 world premieres and over 15 Canadian premieres, showcasing the talent and diversity of Canadian theatre.

An upcoming show you won’t want to miss is A Christmas Story…of Murder!, a festive murder mystery that runs from Nov. 15-25.

Subscriptions for their 21st season in 2024 will be available for sale soon.

Founded in 1974 by a group of artists and art lovers who wanted to create a space for contemporary art in the city, the gallery presents a variety of exhibitions throughout the year.

This includes featured works from its permanent collection of over 1,400 artworks, as well as temporary exhibitions of emerging and established artists.

The gallery also offers a range of programs and events for all ages and interests, such as workshops, lectures, tours, film screenings, and more.

PETERBOROUGH MEMORIAL CENTRE The Peterborough Memorial Centre is more than just an arena. It is a hub of entertainment and culture for the city and the region.

Whether you are a fan of sports, music, comedy, or theatre, you will find something to enjoy at this versatile venue.

SHOWPLACE PETERBOROUGH Showplace Peterborough is a fully accessible, 615-seat venue that hosts live theatre, music, dance, film, comedy, and more.

Don’t miss Tim Hicks on Nov. 22. This show is rock and country music with both his hits and songs from his latest album.

Showplace Peterborough also hosts various one-night-only events, such as Family Magic and Illusion Show, Ray Anderson’s Hypno Comedy Spectacular, Girls Nite Out, and more. You can also join their newsletter or follow them on social media to stay updated on their latest news and activities.

THE FLATO ACADEMY THEATRE If you are looking for a place to enjoy live entertainment in Kawartha Lakes, visit the Flato Academy Theatre in Lindsay. The Flato Academy Theatre is a historic theatre that has been operating since 1892, offering a variety of shows and events for all tastes and ages.

The theatre has a capacity of 542 seats and features a diverse and exciting lineup of shows throughout the year, featuring local, national, and international artists. You can enjoy concerts, musicals, comedies, dramas, dance, and more. For instance, don’t miss the Barra MacNeils - An East Coast Christmas on Dec. 7.

KAWARTHA ART GALLERY To explore and appreciate the artistic talents of the Kawartha Region, look no further than the Kawartha Art Gallery in Lindsay.

The Gallery has a permanent collection of over 200 extraordinary pieces of artwork. You can also enjoy the always-changing schedule of exhibits featuring Canadian artists from various disciplines and backgrounds.

One upcoming exhibit you don’t want to miss is the Radical Feathers: Annual Juried Exhibit, which opens on Nov. 14 and runs until Jan. 27, 2024. This exhibit is a collaboration between the Kawartha Art Gallery, Fleming College Frost Campus, Fleming College Haliburton Campus, and the City of Kawartha Lakes. It is an open exploration of avian beauty, diversity, and conservation.

The Kawartha Art Gallery also offers a variety of programs and events for all ages and interests, from workshops, film nights, walking tours, and more.

THE PIE EYED MONK To have fun and enjoy delicious food and drinks, check out the Pie Eyed Monk in Lindsay. The Pie Eyed Monk is not just a restaurant, but also a brewery, a pub, and an event venue.

Located in a historical building that dates back to 1868, it has been fully restored to preserve its original charm and character. It’s an 80-seat restaurant, which also serves gourmet pizza and pub food.

The Pie Eyed Monk also has a private dining room and a special event space that can accommodate up to 140 people for a seated reception. The Pie Eyed Monk hosts various events throughout the year, such as live music, comedy nights, trivia nights, and more.

Don’t miss the Holiday Market on Nov. 26.

This is a free event where you can shop from local vendors, enjoy the cash bar, take pictures with Santa, and support a local charity.

— Kawartha Social

The Memorial Centre has been hosting events since 1956 and has a rich history of bringing world-class performers and athletes to Peterborough. It is home to the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey League and the Peterborough Lakers of the Major Series Lacrosse league, as well as concerts, musicals, trade shows, and fairs.

Don’t miss the Stars on Ice show on Dec. 8. This spectacular show features some of the best figure skaters in Canada, including Olympic and world champions.

GATHER

THE BUDGET-MERRY

HOLIDAY PARTY Want to host a party this holiday season but feeling tight on cash?

Here’s how to entertain and not break the bank.

Celebrating Christmas and other December holidays is a wonderful time of the year to have fun with family and friends.

But hosting a festive party can also be expensive and stressful, especially on a tight budget. Not to worry! Enjoying the holiday season without breaking the bank is within reach. Here are some tips to help you plan a merry and budget-friendly holiday party.

1. SET A BUDGET AND STICK TO IT

The first step to throwing a holiday party on a budget is to set a realistic and reasonable budget for your event. You need to consider how much you can afford to spend on food, drinks, decorations, entertainment and venue. Try to avoid overspending or using credit cards that will add to your debt.

2. CHOOSE A CHEAP AND CHEERFUL VENUE

The most affordable way to host a holiday party is to have it at your own home, if you have enough space and comfort for your guests. You can also ask a friend or a relative if they are willing to lend you their place for the occasion. Another option is to rent a room at a community centre, a church, or a business if your budget allows.

26 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

3. SEND FREE OR HOMEMADE INVITATIONS

You don’t need to spend money on fancy invitations to invite your guests to your holiday party. You can use free online tools or apps to create and send digital invitations via email or social media.

Don’t forget to include the essential details such as the date, time, location, dress code, and RSVP. 4. PINTEREST IS YOUR FRIEND

Buying expensive or new decorations to make your holiday party look festive and cozy is not necessary. You can use what you already have at home, such as candles, fairy lights, ornaments, wreaths, or garlands. You can also make your own decorations using recycled materials, such as paper, cardboard, pinecones, ribbons, or fabric. Pinterest is a wealth of holiday decorating knowledge.

5. SERVE SIMPLE AND DELICIOUS FOOD AND DRINKS

You don’t need to cook a lavish feast or hire a caterer to feed your guests at your

holiday party. You can serve simple and delicious food and drinks that are easy to prepare and budget-friendly. You can also ask your guests to bring a dish or a drink to share, potluck style.

6. HAVE FUN WITH FREE OR LOW-COST ENTERTAINMENT

You can have fun with free or low-cost entertainment that will keep everyone in the holiday spirit. You can play music from your own playlist or stream online radio stations.

Here are some Christmas or holiday-themed games for adults that can be a lot of fun during the holiday season: WHITE ELEPHANT GIFT EXCHANGE: Participants bring wrapped, anonymous gifts, and then they take turns choosing a gift or “stealing” one from someone else. It’s a fun and often humorous game.

CHRISTMAS TRIVIA: Create a list of Christmas-themed trivia questions and have a trivia contest. You can divide participants into teams or play individually.

FESTIVE COCKTAILS JACK FROST Rim half a rocks glass with coconut shavings.

Fill glass with ice.

Fill shaker with ice.

Add 2oz of pineapple juice.

Add 1oz coconut cream.

Add 3/4oz White rum Add 3/4oz Blue Curaçao Shake and strain into glass.

Garnish with pineapple wedge.

JESSICA MILNE OF LINDSAY SHOWS OFF HER UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER.

APPLE CIDER SIPPER Rim glass with a mixture of cinnamon and white sugar.

Add ice to shaker Add 1/2oz of gin, 1/2oz of vodka, 1/2oz white rum and 1/2oz triple sec

CHRISTMAS CAROL KARAOKE: Set up a karaoke machine or use a karaoke app and have a singing competition with Christmas carols.

UGLY SWEATER CONTEST: Encourage guests to wear their most out-

rageous and festive ugly Christmas sweaters. Have a contest with prizes for the ugliest sweater.

With these tips in mind, you can throw a merry and budget-friendly Christmas party that will be remembered by your guests for years to come.

— Kawartha Social

Shake and pour into an ice filled globe or rocks glass.

Add 5 oz of apple cider Top with 7up Garnish with an apple slice and floating cranberries.

— Cocktail recipes courtesy of Erastus Burley, general manager, The Pie Eyed Monk, Lindsay.

KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 27

HOME

CREATING YOUR OWN

‘KAWARTHA LIFESTYLE’ “Most importantly, we know where the product comes from, how it’s made, and that it has the quality to last.”

It was eight years ago when we decided to move to the cottage from Toronto to begin living the life we hadn’t realized we were missing. Opening Home by Tim + Chris, our design firm, meant we could share our cottage life expertise with others and incorporate a style of living that needs to be experienced to be understood.

With our focus on Canadian products and services, it was natural when we opened a new furniture store that we kept a similar framework. Our new store, Room by Tim + Chris brings some of our favourite furniture, textile and accessories to the area. No more heading out of the Kawarthas to find the modern country aesthetic we often incorporate into our design clients’ homes. With sheets, towels and furniture from our favourite brands like Au Lit Fine Linens and Gus Modern, we can head out on the water or to the golf course and know we are coming home to a style we love, that fits our active daily life, found in the heart of where we live. Most importantly, we know where the product comes from, how it’s made, and that it has the quality to last.

28 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

When we’re not greeting people at The Grove Theatre or at the Colborne Street Gallery, you’ll find us hiking and biking with our two dogs, Hudson and Jasper.

Always with a full house, we’ve learned country life doesn’t make for a simple life, it’s a matter of perspective. Our perspective is that we can still have a modern home while achieving that cottage feel -- a conversation we have daily with our clients. Come visit us in beautiful Fenelon Falls, where you’ll find many young entrepreneurs, like us, retreating to our Kawartha Lifestyle.

— Tim + Chris

5 TIPS TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR FALL AND WINTER 1.

Update your entry. Slip proof mats and more coat storage will help ready you for all your fall accessories and jackets.

2.

Prepare the fireplace. A good cleaning and taking out all the necessary tools ahead of time will ensure your fires are safe and easy to clean up after.

3.

Layer up. Fall is about pattern and texture. We’re going to be spending more time inside, so get out those warm and cozy pillows and throw blankets.

4.

Create conversation. More intimate lighting and sitting areas for people to gather inside will help make the season feel warm and inviting.

5.

Don’t forget about outdoor spaces. Hang a few lights, put out some wreaths and blankets, and cozy up with friends around the fire pit. Being able to spend some time outside is good for our mental health as we head into longer days.

— Tim + Chris

KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 29

FASHION FILE

CELEBRATING

OF FASHION As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, it’s time to have a look at the latest trends in fall and winter fashion, from cozy sweaters to chic boots. Expect to see plenty of colour, luxurious fabrics, and bold prints.

The models at Brittany N Bros’ 25th anniversary fashion show this past October showcased outfits that are both stylish and practical, perfect for keeping you warm and looking great all season long.

It was a celebration of 25 years of hard work, dedication, and passion for fashion. Brittany N Bros has been a staple in downtown Lindsay for a quarter of a century and eventually growing along the way to include two additional locations in Port Perry and Cobourg. This show was a testament to their commitment to quality, style and a love for their customers.

— Rebekah McCracken

NICOLE TAMLIN LOOKS READY FOR THE SEASON IN A TRIBAL SWEATER, PLAID JACKET AND KUT JEANS. THE ROBIN LENNON UNCOMMON ARTWEAR SCARF, PAULA URBAN BOOTS AND LA DIVA HANDBAG COMPLETE THE OUTFIT.

Locations: 109 Kent St. W. Lindsay 705-340-5359

TAMMY THOMPSON LETHAM AND HER DAUGHTER BRITTANY ROBERTS, OWNERS OF BRITTANY N BROS.

52 King St. W. Cobourg 905-372-3709 241 Queen St. Port Perry 905-985-9910 brittany-and-bros.myshopify.com KAWARTHASOCIAL SOCIALFALL/WINTER FALL/WINTER 2023 30 | KAWARTHA

All photos: Sienna Frost.

LEFT: BRITTANY ROBERTS PAIRS A CUTE PINK MARTINI HEART SWEATER WITH A FRAAS SCARF & HEADBAND. BELOW: CHRIS MCEVOY IS RADIANT IN A PINK LYLA + LUXE CARDIGAN/COAT WITH A FLORAL MASAI SWEATER, MADE IN COPENHAGEN AND RAGNO PANTS, MADE IN ITALY.

“Fashion is very important. It is life-enhancing and, like everything that gives pleasure, it is worth doing well.”

— Vivienne Westwood

L TO R: JILL DECOSTE MODELS A GORGEOUS BURGUNDY GRIZAS DRESS. PERFECT FOR HOLIDAY GATHERINGS. PENNY STRIPP SHOWCASES A COLOURFUL GRIZAS DRESS PAIRED WITH BOODY LEGGINGS AND A FUNKY NECKLACE. MINDY SOBCZAK IS PRETTY IN A PINK LYLA + LUXE SWEATER, PAOLA TRICOT PATTERNED JACKET AND MAC JEANS.

LEFT: KATHLEEN RAINEY IS WEARING A GRIZAS DRESS AND SWEATER COMBO PAIRED WITH FELMINI BLACK BOOTIES. BELOW: GRACE POPOVIC IS HAVING FUN IN A COZY WANAKOME HOODIE WITH LIVERPOOL JEANS AND BLUNDSTONE BOOTS.

HAIR & BEAUTY

‘LIVED-IN’ HAIR COLOUR IS TRENDING FOR A NEW AND NATURAL LOOK In the ever-evolving world of hair fashion, there’s a current trend that’s taking the salon scene by storm: livedin hair colour. It’s the transformation that’s capturing clients seeking a fresh, natural look that embraces their inherent beauty.

Lived-in hair colour is all about creating an effortlessly chic appearance, as if you’ve spent a sunny summer on the coast. The look is achieved by subtle variations in shades, mimicking the way hair naturally lightens and darkens over time. While it may look high maintenance it really isn’t, which makes it perfect for today’s busy lifestyles.

Brunettes, in particular, are embracing this trend. Many are tired of the monotony of their naturally dark hair and are seeking a change that allows them to stand out without sacrificing their inherent elegance. The livedin approach provides them with a way to transition to lighter or richer tones without making a drastic shift.

Blondes are wanting to add more depth and contrast to their one tone beachy blonde look as well.

HAIR BY MONIKA KERSCHL

We are seeing an increasing number of clients requesting the lived-in look, or as you may know it, expensive brunette. The process involves skillful blending and contouring, with seamless transitions between various shades of brown, caramel, blonde and even hints of auburn. The result is a multidimensional masterpiece that flatters their unique features.

This lived-in trend also offers versatility. Clients can opt for warmer or cooler undertones, depending on their preferences and skin tones. The hair colour can be customized to add depth and dimension, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a change without losing their natural allure.

Lived-in hair colour is the current trend captivating the world of hairstyling. It’s a celebration of individual beauty and the perfect way for brunettes and blondes and even redheads to reinvent themselves while remaining true to their roots. If you’re looking for a fresh, fashionable change, this trend may be just what you need to bring out the best in you.

Until next time!

HAIR BY RACHEL KERSCHL

32 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

Monika & Rachel

Monika & Rachel Kerschl are co-founders of Thairapy Beauty Bar thairapybeautybar.com • 3 Kent St. W, Lindsay • (705) 324-4884

Celebrating

25 years Proactive Planning Trust. Integrity. Respect.

Thank you, clients!

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New Beginnings Start Here KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 33

Not the library from your childhood

NEW EXHIBITS ART PROGRAMMING COMMUNITY EVENTS ARTISTS RESOURCES + MUCH MORE!

(but we still love doing storytime)

DISCOVER EXPLORE BE ENTERTAINED

FOR THE ART IN EVERYONE VISIT US TODAY! 190 Kent St. West, Lindsay, ON Open TUES – SAT | 10AM – 4PM kawarthagallery.com | 705-324-1780

Millions of opportunities.

One exceptional library.

kawarthalakeslibrary.ca

26th Annual

November 17th - 19th • Kawartha Settlers’ Village Hundreds of Decorated and Donated Items on Display and Ready to be Won!

Raffle • Silent Auction • Live Auction • Wagon Ride • Candy Shoppe Visits with Santa • Christmas Cafe & Shop • Crafts & Activities + More!

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

kawarthalakesfestivaloftrees.com 34 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

CANVAS

“THE WANDERLUST” • 40” X 40” • $2,800

‘THE SKY WAS LIT WITH THE MOST BEAUTIFUL DRAMATIC PINKS AND PURPLES.

I JUST KNEW I HAD TO PAINT THIS SCENE…’ KAWARTHA SOCIAL: What is your preferred medium?

RHONDA LAURSEN: I do my landscapes in oil on wood panels. I stain the 1.5” edges so the paintings don’t have to be framed and carry a more natural element to them. I sand and gesso (a mixture used to coat rigid surfaces) the panel two times, before I begin painting.

KAWARTHA SOCIAL: What was your inspiration for this piece?

RHONDA LAURSEN: This painting is taken from one of those sweet calm paddles before a storm moved in. The forest and water call to me always. It’s my happy place, it touches my soul in a way that’s hard to explain.

It moves me to want to paint and share this beautiful scene with everyone.

KAWARTHA SOCIAL: Do you paint from home?

RHONDA LAURSEN: My art studio is on Sturgeon Lake. I can look out the window of the studio and enjoy the beauty and get inspiration. Many early mornings or in the evenings when the wind dies down, I like to take my kayak and my rescue dog, Roxy, out to Ken Reid Conservation Area, just a short paddle across from my studio.

Studio visits by appointment 75 Laird Dr. Lindsay 705-879-9497 rhondalaursenstudios.com KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 35

Whether it be a romantic and luxurious evening away, a finely crafted dinner, or rejuvenating spa day, Eganridge Resort is your Estate of Escape. www.eganridge.com • Halfway between Bobcaygeon & Fenelon Falls

We’re more than just mattresses.

Mattresses, living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, kids bedrooms, home office, home decor, audio video furniture, and more.

(705) 878-9722 • 30 William St. S Lindsay • www.midtownmattress.shop

36 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

GROOVE

LUIS SEGURA – LOUWOP – SAYS HIS LATEST ALBUM,

LA(THEOFRENDA OFFERING) IS A LOVE LETTER TO EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE THAT HAS MADE HIM WHO HE IS TODAY.

children. Just Hip Hop music in general and how it has given me a platform and art form to share my voice and story.

KAWARTHA SOCIAL: Your story is connected intimately to your early life in El Salvador, is it not?

KAWARTHA SOCIAL: What genre is your music?

LOUWOP: Latine Hip Hop. KAWARTHA SOCIAL: What was your inspiration for the key pieces of music on this album?

LOUWOP: The inspiration for the album are my experiences and observations as an immigrant here in Canada and trips taken with my family to El Salvador, where I’m from. Also my family, my wife and

LOUWOP: In the song No Soy de Aquí, No soy de Allá (Not From Here, Not From There), I talk about that feeling of not belonging in both lands you call home, and the idea that you are meant to fly regardless. Later in the album I end with Home. It’s a realization that home isn’t a physical place but a feeling of love, comfort and a safe space to be yourself. My daughter, Baia Lyric sings the chorus on this song and it was a very emotional recording session.

KAWARTHA SOCIAL: Who else or what else makes the cut when it comes to your inspiration?

LOUWOP: This is my love letter to El Salvador, Toronto, to Canada. It’s for Hip Hop, to Cumbias, Rancheras, Salsa dura, Boleros, jazz, rock, to music in general. It’s for the elders, mis ancestros, mis abuelos, mis viejos, my beautiful wife and for our children. To so many gente. I thank you for your time and your patience with me. This is for you. This is mi ofrenda.

Louwop performs at Celebrations in Lindsay on Nov 10.

Tickets available at louwop.ca KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 37

WORDS

GET COZY AND SETTLE IN WITH THESE GREAT

FALL AND WINTER READS THE BITTLEMORES

BY JANN ARDEN Written with Jann’s trademark outrageous humour and full of her down-toearth wisdom, The Bittlemores is a rural fairytale, a coming-of-age story and a prairie mystery all-in-one, saturated with her observations of the world she grew up in and her deep connection to the animals we exploit. This marvel of a first novel digs into how people come to be so cruel, but it also glories in the miracle of human kindness.

HUNT ON DARK WATERS BY KATEE ROBERT A stern captain meets his witchy match in this captivating first fantasy romance novel in the Crimson Sails series from Katee Robert, the New York Times bestselling author of the TikTok smashhit Neon Gods.

Sail the deadly seas of seduction in her new original series; this is a dark, sexy paranormal romance featuring a high seas version of the Welsh Wild Hunt, pirates, sea monsters, witches, and more!

Curated by Cheri Hogg, Kent Bookstore, Lindsay 38 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

WHERE THE FALCON FLIES

BY ADAM SHOALTS Looking out his porch window one spring morning, Adam Shoalts spotted a majestic peregrine falcon flying across the neighbouring fields near Lake Erie. Each spring, falcons migrate from southernmost Canada to remote arctic mountains. Grabbing his backpack and canoe, Shoalts resolved to follow the falcon’s route north on an astonishing 3,400-kilometre journey to the Arctic.

Where the Falcon Flies invites readers on an extraordinary armchair adventure that spans five ecoregions and centuries of fascinating history, and is a masterwork by one of Canada’s most successful and audacious authors.

HELD

BY ANNE MICHAELS Held is a deeply affecting and intensely beautiful novel, full of unforgettable characters and imagery, wisdom and compassion.

It explores the deepest mysteries, and the ways in which desire in its many forms—and perhaps the deepest desire, to find meaning—manifests itself. Held moves through history to light upon Darwin, Sir Ernest Rutherford, North Sea ganseys, early photography, Ella Mary Leather, modern field hospitals…while lovers find each other and snow drifts down across the centuries. From the WW1 battlefield where the novel begins, and its opening lines, Held is alive with seeking: “We know life is finite. Why should we believe death lasts forever?”

THE LYRICS

BY PAUL MCCARTNEY The Lyrics is the definitive literary and visual record of one of the greatest songwriters of all time.

Spanning sixty-four years—from his early days in Liverpool, through the historic decade of The Beatles, to Wings and his solo career—Paul McCartney’s The Lyrics is an unprecedented “triumph”, this handsomely designed volume pairs the definitive texts of over 160 songs with first-person commentaries on McCartney’s life, revealing the diverse circumstances in which songs were written; how they ultimately came to be; and the remarkable, yet often delightfully ordinary, people and places that inspired them.

ALWAYS HUNGRY

BY LAURENT DAGENAIS Chef and social media phenom Laurent Dagenais never imagined that he would one day leave his job in the restaurant business to devote himself exclusively to creating online cooking videos.

Now in his highly anticipated debut cookbook Always Hungry! Laurent shares some of his favorite recipes for the first time, including twenty that have gone viral (cue the incredible tacos al pastor, grilled octopus and signature beef tartare). Appealing to both amateur and more advanced cooks alike, you’ll find over 70 recipes ranging from elevated everyday meals like mushroom risotto to showstoppers like prime rib with garlic escargots. He’s also got you covered on salads, soups, sandwiches, fish, desserts and drinks. (Did somebody say Fun Punch?)

KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 38

HOROSCOPES

IN YOUR STARS November 1, 2023 - March 30, 2024 BY MISTER MYSTIC

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

MARCH 21 - APRIL 19

APRIL 20 - MAY 20

MAY 21 - JUNE 20

During this period, the movement of Jupiter through your career sector will bring opportunities for professional growth. Your hard work and determination just might pay off, leading to recognition and advancement. However, as Mars moves through your communication zone, your words will carry extra weight, so be careful. This is not the time to pick a fight at Costco, even if you lose a tug-of-war for the last case of toilet paper.

With Venus, your ruling planet, in your travel sector, this is an excellent time for exploring new horizons. (No, not just taking a Sunday drive to Kinmount.) You can go farther than that! If it’s not a physical journey, then expand your mind through learning and embrace the adventure. The lunar eclipse in your partnership zone could bring changes in your closest relationships. Adaptability will be key. Don’t start drawing lines in the sand.

As Mercury enters your financial sector, you’ll find yourself focused on money matters. This is a good time to review your budget and make practical financial decisions. (You’ve been going a little crazy on those Cork and Bean lattes, haven’t you?) The new moon in your career zone encourages fresh starts professionally. Trust your instincts and take calculated risks.

CANCER

LEO

VIRGO

JUNE 21 - JULY 22

JULY 23 - AUGUST 22

AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 22

The movement of Mars through your sign energizes you, giving you the motivation to pursue personal goals. However, be mindful of potential conflicts due to your heightened assertiveness. In other words, don’t get all pushy just because you want to have your wedding in Costa Rica and he wants the Downeyville Hall. With the sun in your relationship sector, nurturing your partnerships will bring harmony and growth.

Jupiter’s presence in your intimacy sector encourages deep transformations and personal growth.

You might delve into psychological or spiritual pursuits during this time, or maybe you’ll just spend time psychoanalyzing your partner. (I’m sure they’d love that.) The full moon in your creativity zone enhances your self-expression, making it a great time for artistic endeavours.

As Venus moves through your relationship sector, your social life flourishes. Maybe you can finally try that Hunter Street restaurant you’ve always wanted to experience? New connections could lead to meaningful partnerships. With Mars in your career zone, your professional ambitions are highlighted. Focus on your goals and seize opportunities that come your way.

LIBRA

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 22

OCTOBER 23 - NOVEMBER 21

NOVEMBER 22 - DECEMBER 21

The new moon in your travel sector ignites your sense of adventure. Whether through actual travel or exploring new ideas, you’ll find inspiration outside your comfort zone. The lunar eclipse in your home and family zone could bring changes on the home front. Embrace these transformations as opportunities for growth. Maybe it’s time to move in with that handsome Lindsay man you’ve been seeing?

With Mercury in your partnership sector, communication in relationships becomes essential.

Be clear if you’re intending to stay out until 1 am at the Coach and Horses next week. Express your thoughts and feelings openly to avoid misunderstandings. As Pluto, your ruling planet, moves through your financial sector, you might undergo a change in your approach to money matters.

Jupiter’s transit through your sign boosts your optimism and personal growth. This is a time for expanding your horizons and pursuing your passions. The full moon in your communication zone enhances your ability to convey your ideas effectively, leading to successful deal making. For instance, if you’re going through a divorce, maybe you can keep the house in Peterborough, and he can have the cottage on Stony Lake?

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 19

JANUARY 20 - FEBRUARY 18

FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20

Mars in your partnership sector heats up your relationships. Passion and conflicts could arise, so find healthy ways to channel this energy, like maybe over at Big Country MMA? There’s a heavy bag with your name on it. The sun’s presence in your money sector encourages you to focus on your financial stability and long-term goals.

With Venus in your sign, your charisma and attractiveness soars. If you’re single, maybe you should be putting yourself out there on dating sites or at least visiting The Black Horse and see who you bump into. Use this time to make a positive impression and connect with others. As Uranus continues its journey through your career sector, expect unexpected changes in your professional life.

The new moon in your sign marks a personal fresh start for you. Set intentions and work towards your dreams. With Neptune in your money sector, be cautious of financial illusions. If someone tries to sell you waterfront land in Woodville, get a second opinion. Seek clarity and make informed decisions to avoid potential pitfalls.

40 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

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Women’s Resources We Can Help 24 HR CRISIS SUPPORT LINE 1-800-565-5350

Shelter, Support & Referral for Abused Women and their Children & Human Trafficking Victims scan with phone camera

22 Russell St. E., Lindsay ON K9V 2A1 705-878-4285 www.womensresources.ca

CALL US FOR A FREE QUOTE!

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KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023 | 41

PET PARENTS LINDSAY’S SAMANTHA BURKE AND GERTIE WHO IS A CAVAPOO (CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL AND MINI POODLE CROSS.) SHE IS JUST OVER ONE YEAR OLD.

IF SHE COULD TALK, WHAT WOULD SHE SAY WHEN YOU GET HOME FROM WORK: I’m so happy you’re home – where have you been all day?! Let me show you where I have chewed the baseboards!

NICKNAMES: Gertie-Sue (after my mom, Sue).

FUNNY HABITS OR QUIRKS: Gertie likes to eat her food off the floor rather than out of her bowl, and she also likes to hug you with her front legs/paws like a human.

ALL PHOTOS: SIENNA FROST

GERTIE’S CUTEST MOMENT: Hard question. She is so cute all the time (probably why she gets away with being sassy). I would have to say bringing her home when she was only 1.5 pounds!

SPECIAL TALENTS OR TRICKS: She likes to walk, hop, and dance on her hind legs.

MOST MISCHIEVOUS MOMENT: She loves to chase squirrels and bunnies and hasn’t learned the command “stay” yet.

42 | KAWARTHA SOCIAL FALL/WINTER 2023

Tired of sifting through countless resumes?

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