Play Stay Live

PLAY. STAY. LIVE.

The insider's guide to loving life in Kawartha Lakes.

PLAY. STAY. LIVE. 2024

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CHANGE YOUR LOCATION, CHANGE YOUR LIFE

BY RODERICK BENNS, PUBLISHER A warm Kawartha Lakes welcome!

Play. Stay. Live. is published annually by Fireside Publishing House and distributed through diverse businesses & locations throughout Kawartha Lakes & the eastern GTA. We are a proud member of the Lindsay & District, Fenelon Falls & Bobcaygeon Chambers of Commerce. Fireside Publishing House family of magazines is independent and 100% local, based in the Kawartha Region.

Publisher Roderick Benns Editor Nancy Payne Advertising & Editorial Consultant Rebekah McCracken Junior Editor Keely Ross Contributor Geoff Coleman Art Direction + Design Barton Creative Co. Christina Dedes Advertising Sales Cara Baycroft Cover Design Laura Butler Printed By Maracle Inc. Published By Fireside Publishing House Unless otherwise indicated, all content by Nancy Payne.

To contact the publisher, call 705-341-1496 or roderick@lindsayadvocate.ca PRIVACY POLICY: Play. Stay. Live. 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 Play. Stay.

Live. are copyrighted & may not be published, broadcast or rewritten without the express permission of the Publisher.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.

This guide was written with a few people in mind. It’s for those who are visiting Kawartha Lakes or those who are thinking about moving here. And it’s also a newcomer’s guide, to make sure that once you arrive you’ve got great information at your fingertips — the stuff you can’t really find on Google.

(Don’t worry; if you’ve lived here all your life and are just curious, we’re sure you’ll discover something you didn’t know about Kawartha Lakes, too!)

You can read this guide from start to finish, or flip to a different page each time you pick it up. Just like a friend's recommendations, you'll notice it jumps around a bit. And just like Kawartha Lakes, you'll find something different to catch your attention wherever you look.

Play. Stay. Live. 2024 Editor Nancy Payne has managed to capture the spirit of our many communities in such an intriguing way that you’ll want to keep this guide handy all year long.

The truth is, Kawartha Lakes is not Muskoka. We are not as gentrified, but our many communities are diversified — and, dare I say, more bona fide. There is an authenticity here, as much as that word has become overused. Even though we’re aware of how strikingly beautiful our area is, with our laid-back rivers and

250 lakes, you will notice a distinct lack of pretension in the way we live our lives.

As Kristen Bahler writes in Money Magazine, a liveable place is not about the square footage of the average home, or the scenery that surrounds it. “What truly makes a place a place is a sense of belonging, driven by the powerful energy of people who want to be part of something bigger than themselves.”

If you still have questions about Kawartha Lakes after reading, feel free to contact me at roderick@lindsayadvocate.ca and I’ll try to help. Our local publishing house is responsible for the monthly Lindsay Advocate magazine, among others, which is your best way to stay connected to your community.

Maybe you’re here from the city, looking for more balance. If you’re commuting for your job in the Greater Toronto Area, we encourage you to get to know this community, too. Our towns and villages become better and stronger when we’re all actively participating in our communities, together.

– At press time, the content of this magazine was correct, but of course we can’t foresee all changes that occur, whether for small businesses or events.

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FROM OUR MAYOR I’m very excited that you’re interested in exploring all that Kawartha Lakes has to offer.

If you’re thinking of making us your future home, we can’t wait to welcome you to our community.

New members joining our community have commented that their social calendars have never been so full. You’ll find yourself busy with live theatre performances, agricultural festivals and farmers’ markets.

Fitness and leisure programs include public skating and shinny hockey at one of our seven arenas, and swimming programs for all ages are available at municipal indoor pools in Lindsay and Bobcaygeon.

I’ve met many lifelong friends by getting involved in volunteer committees, from the HKPR health unit and the KLH Housing Corp., to the Fenelon Falls Curling Club. A welcoming small-town feel means you’ll fit right in.

Whether you are an avid golfer like myself or a beginner, the courses in Kawartha Lakes cater to all playing abilities.

There are 14 exceptional courses lined with amazing natural landscapes, making Kawartha Lakes a must-play destination for every golf enthusiast.

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In 2024, we’re thrilled to host the International Plowing Match at the Lindsay Ex from October 1 to 5. This five-day event is expected to attract over 70,000 people to Kawartha Lakes. There will be a variety of activities, including plowing competitions, live entertainment, hundreds of vendors and exhibitors, lots of food and an RV Park.

If your goal is to find a relaxing place to call home while continuing to advance your career, you’ve found the right place. My experience in 25 years of living here is that this is a safe and close-knit area in which to raise children and become part of the community.

– Mayor Doug Elmslie

www.kawarthalakes.ca/welcomehome

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SPEND AN AFTERNOON IN…

Start with these suggestions for discovering our communities, then explore all the spots we didn’t have space to mention. It might take you more than one visit!

LINDSAY Begin with a visit to the Kawartha Lakes Museum, housed in an 1863 jail; after taking in the array of enjoyable exhibits, you can pick up something unique for yourself or someone else in the gift shop. Take a break at Kindred Coffee Bar or on the patio at the Pie Eyed Monk or the Olympia Restaurant. For something different, try some of the Jamaican dishes at Ziggy’s Fish and Chips or head a bit west of downtown to Teriyaki Town. Also in the west end of town is Kawartha Wholesale Bakery, home of mouthwatering old-school doughnuts. A 10-minute drive north takes you to our beloved Ken Reid Conservation Area where you can hike the trails and feed the chickadees. If it’s too hot to move, duck into the Century Cinemas for a matinee or plan to come back for an air-conditioned evening. Be sure to leave time to visit the outstanding clothing stores that have made the downtown a fashion destination.

Olympia Restaurant

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Keith Stata, Highlands Cinemas Photo: George Pimente

KINMOUNT Pick up some takeout at Kinmount Fish and Chips, a freshly made sub at the Shop N’ Save Convenience Store or a treat from Violet’s Frozen Yogurt (look for the purple food truck) on the main road through the village. Head over to Sawmill Park and take in the historic mill display and Icelandic memorial near the rail trail. Afterward, visit the nearby Kinmount Artisans Market’s display of handicrafts, souvenirs and local history books. When you’re finished, take in a movie less than a kilometre up the road at the justifiably famous Highlands Cinemas. Make sure you leave lots of time to explore proprietor Keith Stata’s museum of pop culture ephemera and artifacts from defunct movie theatres all over North America.

FENELON FALLS The big sign by the locks lets you know exactly where you are.

Volunteers rescued it from a former movie theatre and restored it—be sure to visit it at night for the full effect. Grab some homemade pizza or a cone at nearby Slices n’ Scoops or duck around the corner for frozen yogurt at Country Cupboard. If your sweet tooth is demanding chocolate, head into the new Waterbridge Café and Confectionary in the stone building beside the lock. Keep heading down Oak Street to Maryboro Lodge, a cheerful museum that highlights local history with a special emphasis on fun for kids. The gardens are lovely, too, and the nearby trail will take you along the water. Back on the main street, depending on what you’re in the mood for, enjoy lunch at the Lotus Bistro or the The Cow and Sow before checking out the range of beautiful art at the Colborne Street Gallery. Before you leave town, stop for a fancy coffee at the White Cottage Café and finish with a visit to the Fenelon Station Gallery to see highquality work by local artists and artisans.

OMEMEE Savour a cookie or giant pretzel at Mickaël’s Café, and snap up some bagels or authentic French bread for later. Right next door is a welcoming branch of Kawartha Lakes Library where you can peruse a magazine or find your next favourite book. As you head west out of the village, turn on Mount Horeb Road and watch for Windy Ridge Conservation Area. A short hike runs in a loop up a hill, providing a stunning panoramic view, then down beside the Pigeon River and through grassy meadows and cedar bush.

Stone fences near Kirkfield

NORLAND Drive north of the village for a few minutes and turn when you see the sign for Elliot Falls. There’s a pretty park and paths through the trees to the water, which sparkles with flecks of iron pyrite (aka fool’s gold). Back in the village pick up a unique gift at the quirky A Zebra of a Different Stripe. Take lunch from chip truck Queen of Fries to a picnic table near the river or enjoy lunch and the view from the patio at The Riverside Inn. Afterward, a five-minute drive east takes you to the shaded trails of the Altberg Wildlife Sanctuary, the largest in Ontario Nature’s reserve system.

BOBCAYGEON On your way into town, stop into the beautiful new location of the Kawartha Lakes Library, and if you’re ready for lunch, don’t miss the soup and sandwiches at The Grilled Cheese Hideaway or the fish and chips and more at The Original Just for the Halibut just down the street. Park the car and wander up and down Bolton Street, the main drag. (Be sure to check out nearby Bobcaygeon British Shop just off the south end and the Boyd Museum closer to the river.) Take a break over coffee or a cold drink at one of the downtown patios or head across the bridge to a waterside table at the Bobcaygeon Inn. Discover the unbelievable variety and quality of clothing, shoes, swimwear and more at Bigley’s various shops, then watch as boats head through the swing bridge and locks. Cap off the afternoon with a visit to Kawartha Settlers’ Village and an unrivalled ice cream cone at Kawartha Dairy.

Purveyor of fine treats and beverages.

148 Kent Street West Lindsay, ON kindredlindsay.com hello@kindredlindsay.com

KIRKFIELD Even under construction, the world’s secondhighest hydraulic lift lock is impressive, and the park around the Kirkfield Lift Lock is still a great place for a picnic. Head a little way north, park the car on a side road and walk around a little—you’ll see all kinds of plants unique to this limestone plain, known as the Carden Alvar. Back in the village, stop at Becky Jo’s Vovo Fried Dough, open Saturdays and Sundays in the summer, for a delicious Portuguese treat.

It’s a short walk to the historic Sir William Mackenzie Inn, now a popular wedding venue.

Less than 10 minutes east, turn on Balsam Lake Drive and watch for the delightful surprise of extensive traditional stone fences started in the 1860s with and carried on by area residents.

ittany N Bros + Brittany’s Shoes Shop Br

You deserve it!

109 & 111 Kent St. W. Lindsay

brittany-and-bros.myshopify.com • (705) 340-5359

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FIVE REASONS TO JUMP IN TO KAWARTHA LAKES 1. THIS IS WHERE WORK-LIFE BALANCE LOOKS DIFFERENT Enjoy the region’s tranquil lakes and natural areas in your spare time.

The tourism team works with local operators through the Knapsack Signature Experience Program. Check out Sky Haven Equestrian Centre in Bethany for a hands-on, up-close experience with their horses or enjoy a taste of maple syrup during a tour of The Roost Farm’s sugar bush. Grab your kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard and explore our 10 new paddling routes designed to appeal to every paddler, from novice to expert. Check out these experiences and more at explorekawarthalakes.com.

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2 2. YOUR FUR BABY WILL LOVE IT Did you know that a recent survey by SunTrust Mortgage found that a third of millennials purchased their first home to have more space for their dog? You can find a home in Kawartha Lakes with a fenced-in yard, which means your furry friend can run off leash and enjoy the outdoors. Take long walks with your pup along the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail offering 53.8 km of trails along a historic railway bed with a three-metre-wide flat surface. The Victoria Rail Trail is another great option; its 85 km of trails link Kinmount, Fenelon Falls, Lindsay and Bethany. Don’t forget to stop by the Howlers Corners off-leash dog park at Ken Reid Conservation Area just north of Lindsay, open daily all year.

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3. IT’S WHERE NATURE MEETS ARTS AND CULTURE Scenic roads and the Trent-Severn Waterway connect our charming towns and villages. There are so many neat places to visit, it can sometimes be difficult to know where to begin.

The curated Arts & Heritage Trail will guide you through diverse arts, cultural and heritage experiences. Watch boats pass through Lock 32 in Bobcaygeon, Lock 34 in Fenelon Falls or the Kirkfield Lift Lock. Visit the outdoor Grove Theatre in Fenelon Falls to enjoy theatre, comedy, music, dance and special community events. You’ll also find artist galleries or workshops, restaurants and breweries along the trail. Visit artsandheritagetrail.com for more information.

3 4. UNCOVER EXCITING CAREER AND BUSINESS PROSPECTS ACROSS A NETWORK OF THRIVING INDUSTRIES

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Kawartha Lakes is home to more than 6,867 businesses ranging from home-based enterprises to international manufacturers.

Success of our key sectors is grounded in our strategic location, a skilled workforce and access to essential resources. The Kawartha Lakes Economic Development team offers programs like the Kawartha Lakes Small Business Centre (SBC), Million Dollar Makeover and Development Concierge to name a few.

Take advantage of the Kawartha Lakes Ecosystem Network, an extensive network of organizations that collaborate and share information to nurture economic development, lead change, foster innovation and promote growth.

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5. THE PEOPLE REALLY ARE THAT FRIENDLY You’ll find Kawartha Lakes residents welcome visitors and newcomers with open arms. The more involved you are, the more connected you'll feel to your new community. “We had three things that we were worried about before we moved to Kawartha Lakes,” said Fenelon Falls business owner Tim Wisener. “We wondered if we’d have enough friends and if we’d have enough to do socially. We’re pretty booked!” See what else Tim had to say, and the rest of our Welcome Home video series at kawarthalakes.me/welcomehome.

– City of Kawartha Lakes PLAY. STAY. LIVE. 2024

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TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

Kawartha Lakes is a welcoming place to take the entrepreneurship plunge or to set up your home office.

CONNECT, LEARN AND SUPPORT People who already run a business here tend to be not just open to newcomers; they’re more than willing to provide encouragement and share experience, because they’ve been there. Check out local organizations like the chambers of commerce in Lindsay, Fenelon Falls, Coboconk and area, and Bobcaygeon. Lindsay also has an active Downtown Business Improvement Area group. Organizations like the Kawartha Lakes Community Futures Development Corporation, the Business Development Bank of Canada and the Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas are also here to help.

FLEX TIME

GET LAUNCHED If you want to start a business, Launch Kawartha can help make it a reality. With space for up to 20 new entrepreneurs in its downtown Lindsay offices, it offers all the support you need: mentorship, help applying for government grants, other financing possibilities, and expertise in marketing, accounting, law, digital media, and more, as well as mental health and wellness services.

Watch Launch’s social media and website for special events to inspire and inform the local business community.

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Just think of all the hours you get back in your day when you don’t have to commute to the GTA or any city.

Working from home not only lets you be productive on your own terms (hello weekday laundry!) but also to use the time you’ve gained to join in the kids’ activities, meet a friend for a walk or just take 15 minutes to read the paper in the morning. If you need to go somewhere to focus or to have a quiet, neutral setting for an important meeting, you can rent an office for a day, a week or months at a time at Lindsay Business Hub.

WHERE THE JOBS ARE

We’re home to a wide range of employers, and many of them are looking for people.

As housing costs continue to rise out of sight in bigger centres, more people all the time are realizing they can combine an amazing lifestyle with a good job here in Kawartha Lakes. A recent survey of local businesses showed that 64 per cent plan to hire more employees. That number is even higher in the sectors of industry and trade, and arts, culture and hospitality.

An impressive 12 per cent of businesses surveyed plan to expand the physical size of their operation in the future.

BIGGEST EMPLOYERS: PUBLIC SECTOR Trillium Lakelands School Board City of Kawartha Lakes Ross Memorial Hospital BIGGEST EMPLOYERS: PRIVATE SECTOR Armada Tool Works Ltd. Kawartha Dairy TS Manufacturing Caressant Care Northern Casket Holsag Canada Projections by the Workforce Development Board serving our area as well as Peterborough and Northumberland show which sectors are likely to need more workers in the near future. Topping the list are accommodation and food services, followed by administrative support, waste management, manufacturing, health care and social assistance, arts, entertainment, recreation, education and construction.

If you’re looking for work, a great place to start is VCCS in Lindsay. Its career counsellors can connect you to training and lots of local opportunities, whether you’re a student looking for summer or part-time work, or you just want to know more about employment possibilities. For short-term placements, either as an employer or a job-seeker, check out Richmond Staffing on Cambridge Street in Lindsay.

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Pack your bags.

We have space to

Launch.

An ecosystem dedicated to fostering innovation, providing resources to small businesses, and assisting startups and businesses in Kawartha Lakes.

By joining our business family, you gain access to two funding streams:

The KLCFDC provides financing options to small businesses and local startups to develop, innovate, and scale their business in the region.

In addition to financial support, KLCFDC provides advisory services to help mainstreet small businesses and local entrepreneurs develop business plans, access resources, and navigate the process of starting a business.

Invest Kawartha drives innovation through its comprehensive support for entrepreneurs. Offering everything from funding and business advisory, to incubation and acceleration services, Invest Kawartha is focused on expansion.

Invest Kawartha is devoted to helping businesses scale their operations and develop new innovative technologies and sustainable solutions.

Additional benefits of joining Team Kawartha Lakes:

Affordable Real Estate: Kawartha Lakes offers more affordable commercial real estate options compared to larger urban centres.

Quality of Life: With its abundance of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and small-town charm, the region is an attractive location for business owners and employees seeking a better work-life balance.

Proximity to Major Markets: Kawartha Lakes is within proximity to major markets such as Toronto and the GTA, providing businesses with access to a large customer base while enjoying the benefits of a smaller community.

Diverse Economy: There is a diverse economy with opportunities across various sectors such as agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and technology.

Collaborative Community: Launch Kawartha fosters a collaborative business environment where entrepreneurs can network, share resources, and collaborate on projects, fostering innovation and growth.

Learn more about joining our culture of innovation: www.launchkawartha.ca/relocate

THE RIGHT HOME

Kawartha Lakes is booming with new builds, but apartments are harder to come by.

HOUSING IS HOT

As housing in the GTA became increasingly unaffordable, builders have turned to Kawartha Lakes to develop large numbers of new homes in an area where people love the quality of life. Although prices have gone up here as elsewhere, you’ll find a range of options in these new developments from modest bungalows to seniors’ residences to homes big enough for a multi-generation family to live in comfort. To get a taste for what’s out there, pick a nice day and watch for signs as you drive around our communities.

RENTAL REALITIES The vacancy rate for rental housing in Kawartha Lakes is very tight. In 2023, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation estimated it sat at about 1.5 per cent, making it one of the harder places to find an apartment or house to rent in all of southern Ontario. And like pretty much everywhere, rents have skyrocketed over the past five years. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment locally is more than $1,500, while you can expect to pay more than $2,300 for a three-bedroom unit.

Photo: Sienna Frost

IN AN EMERGENCY If you’ve hit hard times, we’ve got you. A Place Called Home 705-328-0905 in Lindsay runs a 24-hour shelter in a new building on Lindsay Street South. Women’s Resources 705-878-3662 operates an emergency shelter as well as brand-new second stage housing for women experiencing abuse and their children.

Photo: Kestin York

The average price for a house listed in Kawartha Lakes is about $650,000 to $700,000.

If you’re looking for a farm or a waterfront property, of course, you can expect to pay much more; if you want something smaller in a more rural area, it will be less.

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Photo: Sienna Frost

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Design your home for your Kawartha lifestyle.

Canadian Focused Furniture Store in Fenelon Falls

NEW CONSTRUCTION RENOVATIONS COMMERCIAL SPACES

FURNITURE, TEXTILES AND HOME DECOR + DESIGN SERVICES 30 Colborne Street Fenelon Falls roombytc.ca

homebytc.ca

Dedicated to the exhibition of contemporary art; painting, drawing, photo, sculpture, fibre and mixed media.

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colbornegallery.ca

EXHIBITIONS TALKS EVENTS 36 Colborne Street Fenelon Falls

COOL, COZY, CASUAL, CHIC

We’re not sure exactly when it happened, but over the past several years, our area has become a destination for people looking to find just the right design advice and décor items for their homes. From art to furniture to accent pieces and much more, you’ll find just what you have in mind — or just what you didn’t realize you needed!

Give your home the vibe you’re looking for when you visit the amazing selection of design and décor stores in Kawartha Lakes.

Midtown Mattress & Home Furnishings

If you’re looking for expert design, Home by Tim + Chris is putting Fenelon Falls on the map. And in lockstep with the design aspect of their business is Room by Tim + Chris, in the same building, which is a Canadian-focused furniture store curating furniture, textiles, and home accents that cater to the unique lifestyle of the Kawarthas. Bonus: Their location on the main street also houses the beautifully curated Colborne Street Gallery where you’ll find a wide range of original art and creative gifts. Over the bridge is the popular Barn & Bunkie and its newest addition, The Bunkhouse. In Lindsay, you can park and walk to several spots chock-full of inspiration. Starting toward the east end of Kent Street, Kate & Co. Home and Design Studio has everything from furniture to glassware.

Continue to Houghton Creek for home comforts including the work of local artisans. White Willow Loft offers carefully selected women’s clothing alongside neutral homewares.

And just around the corner on Cambridge Street, you’ll find Olde Mill Home specializing in rustic décor items. Midtown Mattress & Home Furnishings showcases a variety of home décor options to fit most price ranges. Visit Bobcaygeon to browse at North 65 for unique woodwork, gifts, clocks and more, then cross the bridge to check out the selections for the cozy lifestyle at Briarwood & Bay. Room by Tim + Chris

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LEARNING FOR LIFE

ELEMENTARY Most schools in our area have junior kindergarten through to Grade 8 in the same building. And in Kawartha Lakes, there’s a good chance you’ll run into the teacher at a community event or in the grocery store! Both boards offer early French immersion programs.

The excellent schools in Kawartha Lakes are integral parts of their communities, and there are lots of options nearby for further education.

The week-long Trillium Lakelands Arts Camp, usually held in May, is beloved chance for students in Grades 7 through 12 to explore music, drama, visual arts and dance in TLAC.

PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE

SECONDARY

It’s true almost anywhere: reliable, affordable daycare can be hard to find. You’re most likely to secure a spot by asking around and checking social media — great local providers exist, but they rarely advertise. The Lindsay Centre for Preschool Enrichment offers Montessori-based programming for kids up to six years old.

There are two TLDSB high schools in Lindsay (I. E. Weldon S.S. and L.C.V.I.) and one in Fenelon Falls. St. Thomas Aquinas in Lindsay is the local PVNCC high school. Depending on the school, you’ll find a range of programs: International Baccalaureate, apprenticeships, French immersion, co-op placements and specialist high skills majors.

Public schools in Kawartha Lakes fall under either the Trillium Lakelands District School Board (which also covers Haliburton and Muskoka) or the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board. Most students take buses. Overall EQAO scores for both boards tend to roughly parallel provincial results.

PVNC high school students PLAY. STAY. LIVE. 2024

POST-SECONDARY The Frost Campus of Fleming College in Lindsay is home to the highly regarded School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences. In nearby Peterborough you’ll find Trent University, particularly known for its faculties of education, environment, and Canadian and Indigenous studies, and Fleming’s main Sutherland campus, specializing in health care, trades and technology programs. A little farther away, in Oshawa, Durham College and Ontario Tech University offer a wide range of hands-on courses.

TLDSB students who are over 14 and looking for a different learning experience can opt to take courses through the Adult and Alternate Education Centre in Lindsay.

Fleming College, Lindsay

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KID STUFF

There are plenty of places around Kawartha Lakes designed just for kids to play and have fun.

LOVE THE LIBRARY

GROUNDS FOR PLAY

All branches of the Kawartha Lakes Library system run terrific programs for kids from toddlers to teens all year long. Kids’ corners in all locations are welcoming and packed with great reads. Sometimes the library even takes to local parks with storywalks, posting pages of books on signs along a trail. You’ll often find them at Ken Reid Conservation Area and Kawartha Settlers’ Village, but don’t be surprised to see one pop up as a delightful surprise in another location.

We can’t possibly list all the great play structures and play areas around Kawartha Lakes, but we guarantee that anywhere you explore, you’ll find a playground nearby. The city has upgraded many play structures in local parks over recent years — many offer a wide range of things for your climbing, sliding, seesawing, swinging, imagination-game-playing kids to enjoy. A few suggestions to get you started: Rivera Park (Lindsay), Omemee Beach Park, Coboconk Lions Park, Reaboro Park and playgrounds at the Burnt River Community Centre and the Norland Recreation Centre.

KL Hockey summer camp

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MAKE A SPLASH

TEAM UP

If it’s hot out, there’s no better place than a splash pad.

Fortunately, you’ve got all kinds of them to choose from — why not visit a different one each time? Most have washrooms and change facilities, and probably some play structures and picnic tables nearby so you can make a day of it. Across Dunn Street from Settlers’ Village in Bobcaygeon is the Tommy Anderson Park splash pad. Follow Francis Street in Fenelon Falls to the end to visit Garnet Graham Park. Lindsay has two splash pads, one in Elgin Park off Angeline Street North, and the other at Logie Park on the street of the same name. Sandals or other light footwear are a good idea, and be sure to keep an eye on children at all times.

Please remember that pets aren’t allowed in the splash pads.

Sports can be a full-on competitive commitment or a laid-back chance for your kids to have fun and get some exercise. Many local communities offer organized softball/baseball, hockey, and soccer, as well as gymnastics, figure skating and other individual sports.

Lindsay-based kids’ organization bgc provides several different house league sports, and the local Optimist club runs a dodgeball league in Lindsay in the fall and winter.

a kawartha lakes moment

CREATE WITH STEAM

To sound a bit more like you live here, you’ll want to say Fenelon instead of Fenelon Falls, Caygeon instead of Bobcaygeon, Britain for Little Britain and Coby for Coboconk. But even we can’t figure out how to shorten Bethany, Pontypool, Omemee or Woodville.

Year-round Saturday drop-in Discovery Days and other events are great ways for kids to literally try their hand at fun experiments at the Pinnguaq Lindsay Makerspace. The focus is on science, tech and math, without forgetting the essential “a” for the arts.

CAMP OUT The best-known and loved organizer of day camps locally is bgc in Lindsay. Depending on your kids’ interests, there are Pinnguaq STEAM camps, nature camps at Ken Reid Conservation Area and Gamiing Nature Centre, arts camps through the Kawartha Art Gallery, KL Hockey’s day and overnight camps, and city-run camps based at the Lindsay Recreation Centre.

BGC Lindsay

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GETTING AROUND DRIVING REALITY While you can live without a car in one of the main towns or villages, most people in our area need a vehicle for daily life. The good news is that we don’t have anything like the kind of traffic most urban areas are starting to experience — sure, you might get slowed down by farm equipment on side roads in spring and fall, or backed up for a few minutes while the bridge in Bobcaygeon swings open to let boats through, but just be patient. Put another way, when your GPS tells you the drive you have planned in Kawartha Lakes will take 20 minutes, you can pretty much guarantee that drive will actually take you . . . 20 minutes.

PUBLIC TRANSIT There’s a small-scale bus system in Lindsay, and you’ll find taxi companies that serve all of Kawartha Lakes. Download the Y Drive app to use the new Lindsay-based ride-share platform. If you need a ride to a medical appointment locally or further afield, or you’re a senior or someone with mobility issues, call Community Care of the City of Kawartha Lakes to book a reasonably priced trip.

Bikeshare, Fenelon Falls

a kawartha lakes moment

Don’t fuss if you see two pickup trucks (or cars, or tractors) going opposite directions stopped on a side road.

They just need to catch up on some local news and then they’ll get moving again.

RENT A BIKE If you’re looking to explore on two wheels, there are bicycles available to rent in Lindsay, Fenelon Falls and Bobcaygeon through the Movatic app. Bikeshare stands are located near the locks in Bobcaygeon and Fenelon, and at three spots around Lindsay: Fleming College, behind the town hall on Kent Street and in Old Mill Park.

HEADING OUT Inter-city travel is a sore spot locally. Put plainly, it’s really hard to get to other cities from Kawartha Lakes if you don’t have a car. At the time of publication, there is no longer a regular inter-city bus from Lindsay to Peterborough or the GTA. There’s a GO bus station on Highway 35 just south of our borders, near the interchange with Highway 115. A short ride from there takes you to the main GO station in Oshawa.

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A RAINBOW WELCOME

Pride Week, 2023

From special events to businesses happy to show their Pride (and pride!), we aim for a community where 2SLGBTQIA+ folks can feel comfortable The highlight of the year locally is the annual Pride Week, this year taking place July 8-14. It’s full of great events that anyone can attend, indoors and out, daytime and night. Watch social media for more information and keep an eye out for special events like drag nights, board game get-togethers, drag story times and more.

The Kawartha Lakes Public Library has put together reading material, books, DVDs and books on CD as well as a collection of digital films and ebooks, all focused on showcasing 2SLGBTQIA+ voices. There’s a similar, age-appropriate juvenile collection promoting diversity and inclusion.

Cambridge Street United Church, Lindsay

Pride Week, 2023

Keep an eye out for businesses and organizations (including a church or two!) that proudly display rainbow stickers on the door or fly the rainbow flag. They offer a safe, welcoming environment to 2SLGBTQIA+ visitors and residents.

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Come and explore...

"Where the past, is the present."

Over 20 Historical Buildings & Thousands of Locally Sourced Artifacts Check our Website for Events & Workshops

Open Daily, 10am-4pm • May 1 - September 30 85 Dunn Street, Bobcaygeon www.settlersvillage.org

Relax.

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Subscribe to our weekly newsletter, the Town Crier for local news, events, articles and more! Browse and Subscribe at explorefenelonfalls.com

FENELON FALLS THE JEWEL OF THE KAWARTHAS!

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Join us in Lindsay and experience the excitement of live theatre!

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TO YOUR HEALTH Our hospital is named for Montreal engineer James Ross, who grew up in Lindsay and donated more than $2 million in today’s money to build the facility in honour of his parents, John and Mary. Ross Memorial Hospital opened in November 1902, and while the original building no longer stands, the legacy of care and compassion it represents hasn’t changed.

In some ways, the Ross Memorial Hospital could qualify as the heart of our community. Not only is it one of our biggest employers, it’s also a big draw for the many folks who move here to start a family or to retire — they can feel good knowing there’s a top-notch hospital nearby should they ever need it.

Yes, the Ross (as it’s known locally) is experiencing the same pressures as nearly every other health-care facility in the province, but its caring, professional staff are as dedicated as any you’ll find. Patients needing higher levels of care or special expertise in the operating room are typically transferred to Peterborough, Oshawa, Toronto or Kingston.

Construction has started on the Summit Wellness Centre in Coboconk, which is projected to open by the summer of 2025.

There are after-hours clinics in Fenelon Falls, Bobcaygeon and Lindsay, but their slots fill up extremely fast, so you’ll need to arrive well before opening time if you need to see a doctor or nurse practitioner.

Speaking of health-care professionals. . . again, like many communities, Kawartha Lakes needs more of them. (If you know a doctor or nurse practitioner looking for a terrific new home, please mention us!) It’s tough to find anyone accepting patients locally, so if you’re moving from outside the area, you may want to keep your existing practitioner, at least for a while.

Divya Sebastian, physiotherapist, is one of the many faces at Ross Memorial Hospital. Photo: Sienna Frost

There are excellent physiotherapists, dentists, eye-care specialists and others in the broader health-care field locally, as well as many choices for things like hearing assessments and aids. You’ll also be able to find great complementary health-care providers like massage therapists and chiropractors. Some have practices in more than one location, while others work from their homes.

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FISHING YOUR WAY

Story and photos by Geoff Coleman.

a kawartha lakes moment

If you’re visiting someone in the country, go to the side door if there is one. (This is often true in towns as well.) That’s probably where the mudroom is, and we all need a place to drop our rubber boots, right?

Anglers from one end of the province to the other recognize the names of the lakes that give our area its name, thanks to a rich history of good fishing for panfish, large- and smallmouth bass, walleye and muskie. Being just minutes away from some of the best warm-water fishing in southern Ontario takes things to a different level, one where you can slip out for a few hours after work any weeknight and avoid the crowded summer weekend boat launch scene. Here are a few pointers on how to enjoy what our lakes have to offer for whatever kind of outing you’re looking for.

BEST PLACE TO ENSURE THE KIDS CATCH SOMETHING There are no guarantees in life, but if you have kids interested in the sport, take them to Verulam Park (also known as McAlpine’s Park) on the north shore of Sturgeon Lake between Bobcaygeon and Fenelon Falls. There’s a huge, flat, solid concrete public dock 32

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that provides safe access to all of our sportfish, and if the fishing is slow, the park has a small playground and beach for entertainment. Cast jigs and twister tails or shallow-diving crank baits over the weedbeds for bigger fish, or hang a worm under a bobber anywhere near the dock itself for panfish.

BEST PLACE TO ENJOY THE SCENERY WHILE FISHING There’s no accounting for taste, so it’s great that the local lakes offer a variety of things to look at between bites. Some like to admire the multi-million-dollar cottages, but if frogs, muskrats, birds and turtles are your thing, consider taking a side trip down a river or creek feeding into one of the lakes: Emily Creek on Sturgeon or the Scugog River coming into Lindsay, for example. Cast to, or troll along any kind of drop-off from shore to the creek channel, but keep an eye on undeveloped shorelines for animals you won’t see on the main lake.

BEST PLACE FOR A POST-FISHING PATIO With a great view — rain or shine — of the main attraction in Fenelon Falls, The Locker at the Falls gets the nod in this surprisingly competitive category. You can fish from shore at the falls without a boat and do well for walleye in the spring and fall, and then just walk across the bridge to the restaurant and plan your next trip over a great burger. Honourable mentions go to Murphy’s Lockside Pub and Patio and the Fenelon Falls Brewing Company, both steps away from boat docking. Though destroyed by a New Year’s Eve fire, That Place on Cameron will again be the best spot to take in a sunset when rebuilding is complete. If you’re tying up in Bobcaygeon, try the Royal Moose Grill & Waterfront Patio.

WHY IT MAKES SENSE TO HIRE A GUIDE When fishing new water, hiring a reputable guide for your first trip is money well spent. There is no substitute for local knowledge, and a good guide stays current as fishing techniques change on our heavily pressured lakes. These guides have great equipment, amazing boats, and a vested interest in both putting you over fish and teaching you how to catch them. Ask around at local fishing tackle shops and area fishing clubs, or try Facebook to find the name of a potential guide. Keep in mind that, like a good contractor, a good guide will be booked months in advance.

BEST PLACE TO TAKE A HARD-CORE FISHING FRIEND The most challenging fish to catch around here is the muskellunge. They don’t grow as large as those on Lac Seul or Georgian Bay, but we have a lot of them. While it is not unusual to catch them incidentally when walleye fishing at any point in the year, going after them on Pigeon Lake in October near the full moon is a good bet. It takes a special kind of commitment — the weather will likely be cold and windy — but the chance to catch multiple fish when they are at their biggest is very real.

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2024 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo October 1st to 5th, 2024 at the Lindsay Fairgrounds Celebrate agriculture and rural living at the 2024 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo.

The Match offers 100s of vendors and exhibitors highlighting agriculture, food, lifestyles, and more.

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SPLASH OUT!

We’re not so big on the whole beach scene thing here. Our swimming spots are more for enjoying the water and some relaxation with family and friends. Bonus: Beaches overseen by the city of Kawartha Lakes are free!

Sturgeon Point swimming area

Check the HKPR health unit’s beach water monitoring website before heading out.

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TOP 3 BEACHES Balsam Lake Provincial Park Okay, so this one would be a standout almost anywhere. There’s a great big sandy beach where families can spend a whole day swimming, making sandcastles, picnicking and just hanging out. The usual day use fee applies.

Norland Bathing Area This tucked-away spot on Shadow Lake 3 Road is popular with local residents and cottagers. It has both grass and a sandy beach, and the water is lovely and clear.

There’s a playground and washrooms.

Sturgeon Point Of the many places to jump into the refreshing waters of long, narrow Sturgeon Lake, this is one of the most attractive. Take time to explore the leafy, historic village after your swim.

Watch young children carefully. There are no lifeguards at most beaches.

Again, we stress the “low-key” part — while some Kawartha Lakes beaches have beautiful stretches of sand, others will be more pebbly and some are grass right to the water. Some have picnic tables, washrooms and water fountains while others might have portable toilets or no facilities at all, so plan accordingly.

5 MORE FAVOURITES Birch Point You’ll find this grassy swimming hole on the southern tip of Balsam Lake, at the end of Birchwood Lane. There’s a shallow swimming area and a rope swing for the adventurous.

Verulam Recreational Park Southeast of Fenelon Falls on the north shore of Sturgeon Lake, this spot is popular for swimming and picnics. Keep an eye out for boats.

Riverview Beach Park Take Mill Street off KL #36 on the southern outskirts of Bobcaygeon, and keep to the right. There’s lots of parking and shade, as well as play structures near this quiet beach. It’s actually located on an island on the Bobcaygeon River between Pigeon and Sturgeon lakes.

Valentia Sand Bar Beach Park Watch for the signs as Sand Bar Road nears the water. This small grassy beach on the north shore of Lake Scugog also has swings.

Balsam Lake Provincial Park

Centennial Beach This long, narrow park on KL #24 offers several private spots to relax in the shade on the south shore of Sturgeon Lake. The shallow pebble roadside beach is great for toddlers, while more experienced swimmers will soon find deeper waters.

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DISCOVER OUR NATURE

It’s one of the main reasons people come to visit Kawartha Lakes. Not surprisingly, it’s also one of the main reasons why they choose to live here once they’ve experienced our life amid natural wonder.

BIRDING More than 250 species of birds make their homes here for some or all of the year. Much of the limestone plain that forms the Carden Alvar Important Bird Area has been set aside as a provincial park. Take the time to look closely and you’ll notice distinctive plants and insects in this region in the northwest.

Conservation areas are another great place to see waterfowl and other species.

Pro tip: Take a photo of the large map usually found at the trailhead so you can decide how long you want to be out and keep track of your location.

TRAILS When you live where there used to be railways crisscrossing all over, you end up with 600 km of trails after the trains are long gone. With their gentle grades and beautiful vistas of farmland, streams, wetlands and forests, the trails are beloved by all kinds of people for walking, cycling and horseback riding. (Some motorized vehicles are permitted only on the Victoria Rail Trail — please know the rules before starting out.) Parts of the VRT in Lindsay and Fenelon Falls are paved, making them fully accessible. A varied portion of the much longer Ganaraska Trail runs from south of Reaboro through the northeastern corner of Kawartha Lakes. You can also experience our stretch of national treasure when you head out on the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail, which also has some paved sections. East of Omemee, the trail offers spectacular views in every season as you cross Doube’s Trestle Bridge.

More information and maps for all three trails are available through the Kawartha Lakes website, and there are printed maps available at locations such as municipal offices and libraries. There are apps for the KTCT and the Ganaraska Trail. The Gamiing Nature Centre on Pigeon Lake Road offers seven km of trails and a lakeside boardwalk. For a shorter walk that winds through the unique eco-region known as The Land Between, visit the Bobcaygeon Wilderness Park just east of the village. The paved Scugog River Trail in Lindsay is popular for its accessibility and pretty views of town. The Ballyduff Trails, located off Highway 35 north of Pontypool, are a true gem.

Situated on private property, the trails — which are steepish in places — take visitors through varied stands of native trees, remnants of the original farmstead, and even a restored tallgrass prairie. Before you go, check the website of Kawartha Land Trust, which protects the property, for more details and a trail map.

No matter where you’re exploring, please respect private property. Stay on your side of the fence, keep garbage with you and never try to feed livestock. A good rule of thumb: If you don’t want people to do it on your lawn, don’t do it on someone else’s field.

Doube's Trestle Bridge

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FORESTS How many cities do you know that also contain actual forests? You can experience a beautiful change of scenery all year long, for free, in our municipal forest tracts.

The Emily Tract on Peace Road northeast of Omemee has two loops you can walk or snowshoe through trees in a rolling landscape. West of Kinmount on the Monck Road is the Somerville Tract, offering three trail loops traversing hardwood and softwood bush, rock outcroppings and wetlands. The Manvers Tract is a smaller forest, located between John Street in Pontypool and Highway 35.

GEOCACHING Whether you’re on a trail, out birding, walking through a forest or nature preserve, or even when you pull your canoe or kayak on shore, geocaching is a fun way to make your day even more enjoyable.

Download a geocaching app for your phone and see what’s nearby, but be warned: These outdoor treasure hunts are addictive!

Dogs are welcome in our forest tracts and conservations and on our trails, but they must be leashed. Be sure to bring bags for, you know, and have a plan for disposing your dog’s waste properly, since not all natural areas have garbage cans.

PADDLING You’d be hard-pressed to find a spot in Kawartha Lakes where you’d have to drive more than 10 minutes to hit a lake or river. Naturally, that makes our area a popular one for canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding. Explore Kawartha Lakes has created multiple paddling routes, most of which are easy and involve no portages; others are perfect if you’re looking for more of a challenge. Several local retailers offer half or full-day rentals so you don’t have to bring your own gear to get out on the water.

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ACTIVE & LOVING IT

We get it — extreme sports are not your thing.

There are all kinds of choices that will help you keep moving and have fun. Even better, a lot of the time you'll also get to meet new people and enjoy some fresh air.

Kawartha Lakes Pickleball Association

The city’s recreation centres in Lindsay and Bobcaygeon are low-key places to continue your fitness regime, whether that involves swimming, weight room training, a cardiac workout on a treadmill or elliptical machine, and upbeat spin class or a relaxing yoga session.

Lindsay Lawn Bowling Club

You can’t spell pickleball without KL! The biggest local organization is the Kawartha Lakes Pickleball Association, which organizes indoor games in Lindsay, Fenelon Falls, Burnt River and Omemee, and outdoor ones in Bobcaygeon and Coboconk.

KLPA offers drop-ins, organized play and clinics. Our local Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes has times available for play in Bobcaygeon. You’ll also find informal games at many local outdoor tennis courts in the warmer months.

Lawn bowling provides gentle exercise and a collegial atmosphere that can be as casual or as competitive as you wish. The Lindsay Lawn Bowling Club hosts regular afternoon and evening games as well as many tournaments. Try your hand with jitneys or 4-3-2-1 play (you have to visit to find out!) at the Bobcaygeon Lawn Bowling Club.

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A quick click or two will lead you to the golf course that’s right for you. Try an easygoing outing at Dunsford Golf and Country Club, or Cardinal Eighteen Golf Club or Deer Run Golf Course, both near Little Britain. For unique scenery, try the Sturgeon Point Golf Course, the Western Trent Golf Club near Bolsover or The Links at Monck’s Landing near Norland. If you want a few options for a challenge, head to the Lindsay Golf and Country Club, Oliver’s Nest near Oakwood, Black Diamond Golf Club near Pontypool, Eganridge Resort, Country Club and Spa between Bobcaygeon and Fenelon Falls or Wolf Run Golf Club near Janetville.

There are municipally run outdoor tennis courts in Lindsay, Coboconk, Bobcaygeon and Burnt River. Players at all levels are welcome at the Fenelon Falls Tennis Club.

DIG IN!

Create the garden of your dreams.

Sun-ripened tomatoes. Bouquets of coneflowers.

Wildlife-friendly shrubs. Shade trees and hedges.

Tough native species. We could go on and on, but suffice to say that if you’re interested in gardening of any kind, you’re going to love what you can do in Kawartha Lakes. There’s a surprising variety of soil and growing conditions from north to south, and different kinds of plants that work well in each. It’s all part of the fun of discovering what you want to nurture in your particular area. The good news is that there are lots of places to find advice, locally grown plants and tips for growers.

June 17 to 23 is Pollinator Week in Kawartha Lakes, which is an officially designated Bee City. Email beecitykawartha@gmail.com for a copy of a special self-guided Pollinator Pathway Garden Tour taking place on June 22.

FIND YOUR NEW FAVOURITES Seriously — there are so many amazing garden centres and nurseries around Kawartha Lakes that you’re going to have to set a budget and stick to it ruthlessly.

Or, you know, not. Because there’s always room for a new plant, right?

Some of these locations are open year-round, while others run from spring through fall, but staff at all of them are a friendly, knowledgeable source of expertise. Many focus on plants they grow themselves, so you know they’re used to local conditions. If you’re looking for bigger shrubs and trees or perennials, prepare to be blown away by Rockwood Forest Nurseries north of Cameron. (It’s a good idea to visit the website first so you know what you want to order once you get there.)

Omemee Heights Greenhouses west of the village has a lovely assortment of annuals and perennials. Rural Roots near Dunsford specializes in lilies but carries a wide range of other plants and has a small seasonal shop carrying fresh Ontario produce.

Wander through the variety of

gardens at Anna’s Perennials — pay special attention to the tremendous selection of succulents and lowwater plants — between Omemee and Bobcaygeon to help you decide what will work in your setting. In Lindsay, check out Hill’s Florist and Greenhouses and Garry’s Garden Gallery — there’s a reason why they’re both so busy. Farmers’ markets and community plant sales can also be an excellent source of owner-grown plants and tips.

GROWING AND LEARNING A great way to connect with other gardeners is joining an organization like the Lindsay and District Master Gardeners, which holds talks open to the community. Other possibilities: the Fenelon Falls Horticulture Society, the Omemee Blooms Garden Club, the Lindsay and District Horticultural Society, the Norland Horticultural Society and the Bobcaygeon Horticultural Society. Many of these groups also organize garden tours where you can admire others’ handiwork and get inspiration for your own.

Rockwood Forest Nursery

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FLATO WORKING TO BUILD HOUSING CHOICES FOR ALL IN KAWARTHA LAKES FLATO Developments is in early stages of its journey in Lindsay, where we intend to provide a diversity of housing options that will keep Lindsay thriving as the heart of the Kawartha Lakes.

Our vision includes a mixed-use community, with options to live, work, shop and play. This vision will enhance the community around I. E. Weldon Secondary School and provide beautiful and affordable options for people to call home, with a variety of housing choices, including purposebuilt rentals and seniors’ residences. Our goal at FLATO has always been to offer residents an opportunity to find the home of their dreams, with housing choices for all generations.

We are also proud to say that this project will bring an economic boost to the community and surrounding areas, as it is expected to create jobs and well-being for residents.

At FLATO, we believe in investing in local economies and supporting businesses, organizations, and community initiatives to help them grow. We look forward to continuing to get to know residents and businesses and learn more about how we can continue to collaborate and keep the City of Kawartha Lakes thriving.

At FLATO, we believe that building a community means supporting and working with the people to understand their needs to provide the best possible living options for all, so they can set up roots and find a true home.

From our business to you, thank you for welcoming us into your community!

— Shakir Rehmatullah, Founder and President of FLATO Developments Inc. 42

ADVERTORIAL

SUPPORTING HEALTHCARE IN THE CITY OF KAWARTHA LAKES Below, Shakir Rehmatullah, founder and president of FLATO Developments, shares his remarks about the importance of supporting healthcare within a community

“When we build communities, we support communities. In Kawartha Lakes, we look forward to continuing to partner with and support community organizations to achieve their goals that will make the community better for everyone.”

“A hospital is fundamental to any community, and we want to ensure that the people who live in this community have access to the right equipment and facilities to deliver the best care. We are proud to be supporting Ross Memorial Hospital in that mission.”

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GREAT FOOD AND MORE, RIGHT FROM THE SOURCE

Become a regular at one of our beloved local farmers’ markets.

It’s part entertainment, part craft fair, part food discovery, part snack heaven, part catch-up conversation opportunity. But one thing you can always count on at farmers’ markets in Kawartha Lakes is quality local food. You’ll find fruit, vegetables and meat from local producers.

Part of the fun is the full-on seasonality — first it’s a trickle of rhubarb and garlic scapes, then leafy greens and peas, then a rush of everything from beans and carrots to beets, herbs, zucchini, tomatoes, berries, peppers, corn and so much more. The season closes out with onions, squash, potatoes, apples and pumpkins. Many markets also feature vendors offering a range of other options including home baking, honey, cheese, maple syrup, wine, sauces and preserves, garden plants and — we’ll say it again — a whole lot more. Some also feature handmade items ranging from wooden crafts to jewellery, knitting and sewing, pet treats, home décor options and…yes, lots more.

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a kawartha lakes moment

Okay, so it’s not consistent, but we’re quite likely to brake to avoid hitting a squirrel while we’re driving and then turn around and scream at one if it’s climbing on our bird feeder at home.

DAY + TIME

LOCATION

DON'T MISS

BOBCAYGEON

Saturdays 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Mansfield St. Fairgrounds

prize-winning goat and sheep cheese, garlic creations, Mennonite baking, hot sauce

FENELON FALLS

Fridays 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Corner of Bond & John Streets

herbs, wine, lamb, garlic products

• Leave the dog at home. Even if the market you’re going to doesn’t prohibit pets, and even if your perfect pooch is on a leash, dogs, food and crowds aren’t a great combination.

KINMOUNT

Saturdays 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Station Rd. (north of river)

cinnamon buns, fresh-cut flowers, cookies and tarts, quilting

LINDSAY

Saturdays 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Victoria Ave.

Caribbean foods, apples, kettle corn, mushrooms

• Don’t expect lower prices.

Farmers’ markets aren’t grocery stores. Most vendors have a very short season to earn a living in a very weather-dependent sector, and quality can cost a bit more.

LINDSAY

Thursdays 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Wilson Fields, Colborne St.

garden plants, pierogies, honey, pies

NORLAND

Fridays 2 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Ward Memorial Pk.

maple syrup, meat pies, jewellery, butter tarts

MARKET TIPS • Take it slow. People tend to meander rather than rush as they survey what’s on offer, and they’ll stop right in front of you if they run into a friend.

7675 Hwy 35

• Wait your turn. Sometimes the person ahead of you has a bunch of questions about what to do with tomatillos. Just relax.

• Be friendly. Vendors are human beings who also tend to like people. If they greet you, it’s not necessarily the start of a hard sell. Bonus: They might have samples!

• Bring more bags than you think you’ll need. Because you’re going to find a lot of great things you want to try.

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We provide a safe, supportive place for children and youth to experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life.

One of the area’s largest and most diverse child and youth serving organizations.

Established in 1970 Serving over 8,000 children, youth & families a year

WHAT WE DO 3 Before & After School 3 Licensed Child Care 3 Summer Camps 3 Breakfast & Dinner Programs 3 Physical Fitness & Sports 3 Music, Dance, Theatre Arts 3 Youth Leadership & Mentoring 3 Career Development 3 Nutrition & Food Education 3 Mental Health & Wellness 3 Family Supports

107 Lindsay St. S. Lindsay, ON. 705-324-4493 www.bgckawarthas.com

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ON TWO WHEELS

Kawartha Lakes is a terrific place for cyclists of all ages and abilities.

Whether you prefer a more leisurely ride to take in the scenery or an intense workout on wheels, the Kawartha Cycling Club is a great place to start. It organizes rides around Kawartha Lakes with a variety of paces and surfaces — pick the one that’s right for you.

Another resource you’ll turn to again and again is the Kawartha Lakes Cycling Routes Map Guide available in various municipal offices and libraries in print form, and digitally through the Explore Kawartha Lakes website.

You can rent or buy pedal or electric bikes from The Bike Garage, and buy gear, clothing and bikes at Down to Earth Adventure Outfitters, both located in Lindsay.

Visit the Ontario by Bike website to discover lots of local businesses that welcome cyclists.

Shout out to Bobcaygeon for being certified by the organization as a bike-friendly town!

Our extensive trails offer gentle grades and beautiful views of farmland, forest, villages and wetlands.

See the Trails section in the Discover our Nature article on page 38 for more detail.

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FRESH FROM THE FARM

Keep in mind that some family farms and farm stores are not open on Sundays, especially those operated by members of local Mennonite and Amish communities.

Visit a local farm for a great selection of top-quality vegetables, baking, preserves and more, with bonus family fun.

PICK YOUR OWN Watch for signs along back roads pointing to spots where you can go out and pick fresh produce for yourself at family-run farms.

Brouwer’s Strawberries northwest of Lindsay also offers berries and other farm produce for sale. Wilson’s Fresh Blueberries south of Bobcaygeon has a wide variety of berries to pick or to buy. It’s always a good idea to call pick-your-own berry farms ahead of time to confirm hours and the status of the crop. As summer draws to a close, MacArthur Pumpkin Patch between Lindsay and Oakwood has plenty of choice for jack-o-lanterns and fall decorating.

FARM STORES There are quite literally so many farms in Kawartha Lakes selling their own great products that we can’t list them all here. The range includes ultra-cozy duvets and clothing at Salem Alpacas (Manilla), Clancy and Gale’s Maple Products (Pontypool), DJ’s Honey (Norland), Kennedy Farms (Omemee), Quaker Oaks Farm (Sebright), gribBEES Apiaries (Pontypool), W Conspiracy Farms (Kirkfield), Freedom Valley Farms (Omemee) . . . like we said . . . so many farms! Watch for hand-lettered signs in the area between Lindsay and Bobcaygeon — these are often Old Order Mennonite farms selling eggs, baking, produce, quilts and more. The Mennonite market on KL# 36 northeast of Lindsay is equally beloved by local residents and seasonal visitors who’ve discovered its delicious preserves, produce and summer sausage, plus baking on the weekend.

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Quaker Oaks Farm

AT THE GATE Rather than operate a full-on store, many local farms simply put a sign at the end of the lane telling passersby what’s available to buy. Watch for hand-lettered signs offering eggs, maple syrup, meat and more. You won’t find fresher, higher quality meat than the products you can buy right on the property, known as farm gate sales.

(It’s always a good idea to call ahead, since these are family operations, and families get busy.) We can’t list them all but here are a few to check out: Three Forks Farm east of Dunsford sells naturally raised chicken, turkey and pork, while closer to Bobcaygeon you’ll find pastured beef, chicken and pork at Field Sparrow Farm. Freedom Valley Farms (Omemee), MacArthur Farms (Woodville), Over the Top Cattle Company (Pontypool), O’Brienview Farms (Cameron) and Shealand Farms (Bethany) are all worth a look — and there are more besides.

SUBSCRIBE TO FRESH

Visit the Kawartha Choice Farm Fresh website for listings of way more farms that welcome visitors and sell on site. And seriously, we really do apologize to all the other great operations not listed here!

O'Brienview Farms

If you’re interested in getting the best of local produce but less keen on going out and finding it yourself, several farms offer community supported agriculture or CSA programs.

Essentially, you’re buying a portion of a given farm’s harvest in advance. Not only will you get a weekly collection of vegetables and more at their absolute peak, you’re often encouraging sustainable, small-scale farming to boot.

More are popping up around Kawartha Lakes all the time, but well-established local CSAs include Brandeston Farm east of Fenelon Falls, Merkaba Acres north of Bobcaygeon and Lunar Rhythm Gardens near Janetville.

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FLOWER POWER!

Local farmers are growing something new, fresh and very pretty.

Whether you’re an environmentally conscious consumer looking to support local producers, or someone who loves gorgeous flowers, or a little of both, you’ll want to check out the growing number of farms in the area producing beautiful blooms. Not only do they avoid the greenhouse gas emissions of flowers flown in from all over, they spotlight lovely species that thrive right here.

Instagram is a great place to find these growers and learn about what they produce, as is the Kawartha Fresh Farm Choice website. Here are a few to explore — they all offer arrangements and bouquets for special occasions or just because. Flowers on King in Woodville is committed to sustainability and biodiversity as well as gorgeous bouquets.

Nearby White’s Creek Flower Farm offers fresh-cut flowers at its roadside stand. Wild Acres flower farm near Reaboro offers weekly bouquet subscriptions, while Queen Bee Flower Farm specializes in herbaceous peonies. Many local vegetable farmers also grow flowers — watch for them at farmers’ markets.

Flowers on King

Wild Acres

Keep an open mind as you shift your thinking to locally grown flowers. Just like we’ve learned to appreciate that local asparagus and strawberries have limited growing seasons when they’re at their peak of awesomeness, flowers are the same way. The blooms available will change over the course of the season, which is part of what makes these bouquets so delightful — you can’t get them in February!

White Creek Flower Farm

Volu nt C eer w

ccck CCKL! ith l.ca/ volu ntee r

Welcome to Kawartha Lakes!

High quality furniture, collectibles, and more. ab

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s s p@ t 705 - 340 - 5152

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31 Kent St. Lindsay Wed-Fri - 9-5:30, Sat 9-5 Make a difference.

Get involved in your community.

Kawartha Lakes Food Source is a non-profit organization working to end hunger in the City of Kawartha Lakes.

DONATE. We accept monetary donations and both perishable and non-perishable food donations!

ATTEND OUR EVENTS. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA. @kawarthalakesfoodsource For more information, visit our website or contact us: www.kawarthalakesfoodsource.com | (705) 324-0707 164 Needham St, Lindsay

WE PROVIDE SERVICES THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Serving the City of Kawartha Lakes for over 35 years

We provide health and community based services that support independence and enhance quality of life for the people in our community.

Food and Nutrition

Health and Dental Care

Wellness Programs

Senior and Caregiver Support

Transportation Services

Hospice Services

How can we help you? www.ccckl.ca

705-324-7323

AskUs@ccckl.ca

WELCOME TO KAWARTHA LAKES! Changing your prescriptions is just a phone call away.

705.324.0500 108 Kent St. W., Lindsay

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FARMING MATTERS

Our accomplished, innovative farm community is critical to our local economy, not to mention food security beyond our borders.

We know where our roots are in Kawartha Lakes — firmly planted in farm fields. As you travel our area, you’ll notice a wide range of family farms that are typically fairly modest in size, although many farmers rent other property for crops. Beef and dairy cattle are the most common types of operation, along with the associated forage crops. Cash croppers plant things like soybeans, corn and grains. And of course we have many farms that do a little of everything — eggs, crops, grazing animals and more.

Over the past decade or so, operating revenues have nearly doubled although not surprisingly, costs have kept pace.

Farmland in Kawartha Lakes sells for about $10,000 per acre.

Kawartha Lakes has a bit of an outsized reputation in the seed industry. The biggest company is DLF Canada (formerly Pickseed), but there are several other local players such as Bonis & Company, Midnight Acres and highly regarded Canadian Seed Laboratories.

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Maryland Farms near Reaboro is both a multigeneration family dairy farm and an agribusiness on the cutting edge. Its anaerobic digester captures methane gas from manure as well as from fats and other organic material from restaurants, generating electricity in the process.

COUNTRY FUN

Bring your appetite and some comfortable shoes!

It doesn’t matter whether you’ve lived your whole life in a rural area or whether you’re visiting from a big city — taking part in community events in our friendly region is always a great idea.

EAT UP There’s nothing like a church supper in the country.

Watch for posters in local businesses advertising strawberry suppers in the summer, and turkey or roast beef dinners in the fall. These meals are plentiful and usually entirely homemade (Hello pie table!) They’re also affordable, with prices per person or at a reduced rate for families.

WHAT AM I BID? You can find everything from power tools to antiques to inexpensive housewares and farm equipment at one of our local auction houses. McLean Auctions just south of Lindsay, Kevin Barker Auctions just to the north of town and Corneil Auctions east of Little Britain are among the best-known. Search online to find on-site auctions and those happening in the auctioneers’ home locations and on their websites. Even if you never buy anything, you’ll have a great time!

Supper at St. Paul's Anglican Church

FAIR-LY ENTERTAINING Given that farming is the backbone of our communities, it’s to be expected that agricultural fairs are big events. Locally, the season starts with the Fenelon Fair in July, moving on to Kinmount, Lindsay and Bobcaygeon. Be sure to take in some of the livestock shows and walk through the displays of homecraft, vegetable, crop and children’s entries. There’s often live entertainment that might include a demolition derby and musical performances. And yes, you have our permission to try whatever food you want — nobody’s counting! This year brings the enormous and varied International Plowing Match and Rural Expo to Kawartha Lakes in early October. The plowing itself is fascinating, but there’s so much more to see and do during this event — be sure to set aside time for a visit!

a kawartha lakes moment

Remember: Green or brownish bales are hay, made from grasses and used for animal fodder. Shiny golden bales are straw, made from the stalks of grains like barley and used for bedding.

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KAWARTHAS NORTHUMBERLAND - HOME OF CANADA’S FIRST WATERWAY TRAIL TOWN PROGRAM A Trail Town is a destination along a long-distance trail. Our trail is not a land trail, it is a waterway trail. The Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site of Canada is a 386-kilometer (240-mile) long canal route connecting Lake Ontario to Georgian Bay. Trent-Severn Trail Towns are vibrant destinations along the waterway where people come together. They are places where trail users can venture off hiking, biking, boating, or exploring the towns to enjoy the amenities and unique heritage of the communities.

The Trent-Severn Trail Towns can be used as a jumping-off point to explore the waterway or used to create a fun road trip or waterway itinerary.

Taste of the TSW - A celebration of food and community along the historic Trent-Severn Waterway.

Trent-Severn Trail Town Friendly Businesses offer advice, great products, and exceptional services for visitors and locals alike.

Our Trent-Severn Trail Towns Are Ready To Welcome You Bobcaygeon Buckhorn Campbellford PLAY. STAY. LIVE. 2024

Coboconk Fenelon Falls Hastings

Lakefield Lindsay Rosedale

TRENT-SEVERN Trail TOWNS YOUR TRAIL TOWN ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE tswtrailtowns.ca

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ENTERTAINING IDEAS So you have friends coming up from the city for the weekend.

Or maybe you’re coming to Kawartha Lakes for the whole summer. Either way, you’re going to be having people over. Create a memorable experience for them while you save time for yourself with these great local suppliers.

Gridley's

CHARCUTERRIFIC If you’re the type who loves arranging the perfect selection of cured meats, cheeses, pickles and more, go right ahead. But if you’d rather spend the afternoon under a tree with a good book, check out the grazing boxes from Muster Point, which also offers big, beautiful grazing boards for bigger gatherings. Board and Nibble provides goodies ranging from walking tacos and breakfast pastries to gorgeous charcuterie boards.

a kawartha lakes moment

CHEESE AND MORE Canada’s favourite goat cheese, Celebrity from Mariposa Dairy, got its start on a local farmhouse table. Visit Mariposa Woolen Mill and Farm Market for a wide selection of goat and sheep cheeses as well as beautiful handcrafted wool and felting projects. Keep an eye out for Gouda, Edam, Maasdam and more from a newer local producer, Vosbrae Dairy.

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You’re right — we probably don’t fully appreciate how lucky we are to live here.

Muster Point

MEAT UP This is farm country, which means you get great meat. It’s hard to say which Lindsay establishment’s staff is more friendly and knowledgeable — Farmers Butcher Shop or Nesbitt’s Meat Market. They both offer house-made specialties, gourmet sauces (watch for local blends created by Bob’s Spices) and plenty of the cuts you’re looking for. Why not try both?

Nesbitt's Meat Market Photo: Sienna Frost

SAVE ROOM FOR DESSERT No matter where you are in Kawartha Lakes, you’re not far from an outstanding bakery to complete your meal. In the southeast, Country Bakery & Market specializes in British pastries and other goodies. Not far away, you’ll find hearty sandwiches along with scones, cookies, cupcakes and salty-sweet ruffles squares (worth the trip on their own!)at Brouwer Bake Shop in Downeyville. The Sweet Kitchen on Lindsay’s main street offers delicious homemade soups alongside beloved specialties including burnt butter caramel bars, mini Earl Grey pound cakes, butter tarts and sometimes doughnuts.

In Bobcaygeon, be sure to visit the Bobcaygeon Bakery for sausage rolls, cinnamon buns, custard tarts, lemon squares and more, then head across the bridges for a selection of cheesecakes at Cake by the Lake. Just a block off the main street in Fenelon Falls, you’ll find all kinds of tarts, pies and squares at The Little Pie Shack.

GIFTS AND GUESTS If you want to give your weekend visitors a taste for some locally made comforts, shop the website of the Kawartha Candle Company for high quality soy-based candles. (You can find them at retailers in Lindsay, Bethany and Fenelon Falls, too.) Complete the experience with handmade vegan soaps and other personal care products from Gridley’s Lindsay storefront or website.

The Sweet Kitchen

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GREAT HANGS

Get a group of friends together and try out something different!

Whether you’ve never played a round of disc golf or you’re already a fan, our public courses are a perfect place to check it out. The nine-hole course in Lindsay’s Memorial Park, off Lindsay Street South, is free. You’ll traverse woods and meadows at the nine-hole Nature’s Edge course at Ken Reid Conservation Area on Kenrei Road north of Lindsay.

Wild Country Disc Golf on KL# 121 north of Fenelon Falls accepts donation for play on its 18-hole course — just call or message the owners ahead of time.

a kawartha lakes moment

If the weather’s not co-operating, head to Strikepoint Bowling Centre on William Street South in Lindsay or CTRL-V Virtual Reality Arcade in the Lindsay Square Mall. You can challenge yourself as much or as little as you want at the PEAK Indoor Rock Climbing and Adventure Centre on George Street in Lindsay.

Chill out at the end of the day with a double feature on one of the two screens at the Lindsay Twin Drive-In on Pigeon Lake Road east of Lindsay.

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Yes, we go for ice cream cones all year round, and yes, many of us buy our milk at a drive-through in Lindsay.

In fact, we’d do pretty much anything for our Kawartha Dairy products.

RAINY DAY DISTRACTIONS

If you can’t get out on the trails or the lake, there’s still lots to do!

HOBBIES AND CRAFTS You can find inexpensive craft supplies at the usual places you’d expect. If you can plan ahead a little, try Hobbies + Beyond — it’s made the switch from a downtown Lindsay store to online retailing, but still has an impressive array of models of all kinds, plus board games and puzzles. Kawartha Vinyl is a locally based craft success story, specializing in all kinds of supplies for transfers. If you’re interested in knitting or quilting, you have plenty of places to choose from. Aberdeen’s Wool Company in Lindsay ships to knitters all over North America, while Granny Bird’s Wool Shoppe in Bobcaygeon offers inspiration to visitors in person and online. If quilting is your thing, you’ll love The Lil Wee Quilt Shoppe in Fenelon Falls and Appleseed Quiltworks in Lindsay.

DIVE IN If the kids can’t splash in the lake, take them swimming indoors at the Forbert Memorial Pool in Bobcaygeon or the Lindsay Recreation Complex. Check online schedules for family or fun swims, or for adult/fitness swims if you’re looking to get some laps in.

Tradewind Toys and Gifts

FUN AND GAMES If your selection of indoor activities is getting a bit stale, a damp day is the perfect time to explore some fascinating new additions. Tradewind Toys and Gifts in downtown Lindsay is a beloved local institution with an astonishing selection of board games, puzzles, toys, science experiments, paintable miniatures, puppets and more. Describe what you like to the knowledgeable owner and she’ll recommend the perfect choice for the kids or adults you have in mind. Across the street is the popular Iceman Video Games, featuring new and used games as well as comics, cards and eclectic odds and ends.

Forbert Memorial Pool

TUNE TIME There’s more to music than streaming services, handy though they are. For a change of pace, visit Black Heart Vinyl located inside Kent Street Tattoo in Lindsay. At the super-funky Eastend Electric in Fenelon Falls you’ll find records, cassettes, vintage clothing, pins and music magazines.

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LIVE AND IN PERSON

There’s so much great music and theatre around — get out and enjoy!

The Grove Theatre

OPEN MIC For a memorable evening out, head to a local pub or restaurant’s open mic night. Musicians sign up to perform a few numbers in front of a laidback, supportive audience who also get to enjoy great food and beverages. Look for chalkboard signs or watch social media to learn where to find these events. A few options: Murphy’s Lockside Pub, The Locker at the Falls, and The Cow and Sow in Fenelon Falls, Bobcaygeon’s Grāz, and Celebrations, Kindred and The Coach and Horses Pub in Lindsay. In July and August, there are two open mics for kids and two all-ages versions in Victoria Park in downtown Linday; check the city’s website for specifics. Many venues around the area bring in musicians now and then — watch coming events listings for places like The Pie Eyed Monk in Lindsay and The Pattie House in Coboconk. You never know when you might catch local Juno winners like Julian Taylor or members of The Strumbellas!

If you’re interested in joining one of the circles of friendly amateur musicians around Kawartha Lakes, ask someone at one of these open mics when and where to show up.

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Local favourites Pint of Blarney at The Pie Eyed Monk

PLAY ON

OUTDOOR TUNES

Lindsay Little Theatre offers high quality productions staged, directed and acted by amateurs. Several other venues focus on theatre but also bring in music and comedy acts — check their listings to confirm dates and book your tickets. Globus Theatre at the Lakeview Arts Barn south of Bobcaygeon is a wonderful spot to spend an evening. Treat yourself to a package including dinner and then professional theatre (there’s also dinner theatre on occasion) in a distinctive setting.

The Grove Theatre in Fenelon Falls features two main theatrical productions this summer, interspersed with musical revues and one-night performances. Lindsay’s venerable Flato Academy Theatre is the setting for a wide range of tribute acts, musicians, comedians and local productions.

Bring a lawn chair and some insect repellent and settle in for concerts all summer long. Settle in near the Trent-Severn lock in Bobcaygeon for Thursday evening concerts, starting with a children’s concert at 5:30 followed by a concert for the grownups at 6:30. (The Bobcaygeon Music Council also runs an indoor concert series from October through April.) Kinmount also has music in the park at 6:30 on Thursday evenings in July and August, while Lindsay features concerts in Victoria Park beside the armoury on Kent Street on Wednesday evenings and Sunday afternoons.

Globus Theatre

The Locker at the Falls

Bobcaygeon Music Council concert

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YOUR PATH TO PEACE-OF-MIND PC STARTS WITH WARDS LAWYERS PERSONALIZED LEGAL SOLUTIONS At WARDS LAWYERSPC, we believe that everyone deserves access to exceptional legal representation, and we are committed to making that a reality for all of our clients. Whether you’re navigating a Family Law matter, Real Estate transaction, Estate Planning or Administration, Business and Corporate affairs, Litigation or Employment issues, or matters related to Criminal or Personal Injury law, WARDS LAWYERSPC has the expertise to support you.

YOUR COMPLETE LEGAL TEAM

Serving Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough and Surrounding Area

84 Kent Street West, Lindsay | 705.324.9273 | info@wardlegal.ca | wardlegal.ca

LIFELONG LEARNING Keep your mind active and make some new friends with these local events and organizations.

Whether you’re new to Kawartha Lakes or you’ve decided it’s time to try something different, you’ll find lots of options to learn. From October through April, the Canadian Club of Lindsay offers monthly evenings with guest speakers from fields as wide-ranging as history, the environment, publishing, business and more. Lindsay is also home to Probus clubs for both women and men. Each has a monthly daytime event with presenters who bring fascinating experience and insights. The Optimist club runs many community activities for kids, and typically holds meetings over breakfast, also with guest speakers.

If you’re looking for a book club to join, the best place to start is any branch of the Kawartha Lakes Public Library. And if you want to start your own, the library offers five-week loans of sets especially for book clubs. Keep an eye out for special events at local museums, conservation areas and art galleries, too.

STAY INFORMED When you get to a new community, there’s nothing better than finding truly local media. All the 100 per cent local print newspapers — with fresh, original content — are gone from Kawartha Lakes, but don’t miss the monthly glossy news magazine, The Lindsay Advocate. Delivered across Kawartha Lakes to high frequency pickup locations, The Lindsay Advocate is a news and features magazine that covers our big, rural city.

Fireside Publishing House, which publishes the Advocate, also does Kawartha Social , a lifestyle magazine, and The Business Advocate, a business publication, both of which come out three times per year — not to mention the magazine you are holding!

You can listen to radio in Kawartha Lakes at 91.9 FM. The station was recently purchased by Durham Radio. Some local television news is offered by Global in Peterborough.

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Canadian Club of Lindsay board members and speaker

Visitors Welcome Tours Available - please book ahead.

Buses Welcome • Free Parking Wheel Chair Accessible

Salem Alpacas Store offers: Handmade Salem Alpacas Duvets • Fleece Yarn • Wearables • Collectibles and more!

363 Salem Rd., Manilla • 705-786-2023

salemalpacas.com • info@salemalpacas.com Open Year Round - Wednesday to Saturday • 10am - 5pm

My passion is to provide you with Timeless Memories.

frostphotos.ca • 705.341.7444

frostqualityphotography@gmail.com

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Treat Yourself!

Always delicious. Always fresh.

Specializing in amazing desserts.

Watch for our daily specials!

Hours: Tues. - Fri. 10-4 Sat. 10 - 2 101 Kent St. W. www.thesweetkitchen.ca

Welcome to

Cornerstone Home DOWNTOWN FENELON FALLS

Furniture • Appliances Mattresses • Decor Bedding & Bath 73 Colborne St. Fenelon Falls www.homefurniture.ca 705.887.2521 www.mycornerstonehome.ca

Toys Puzzles Gifts & More!

Your downtown destination for ‘fun’ since 1996.

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YOU OWE IT TO YOUR SELFIE

Four choices for guaranteed great pics.

THE LAKES’ CHANGING MOODS These stunning images of Balsam Lake are courtesy of Meaghan O’Neill, a photographer who loves preserving intimate moments with people as well as nature scenes all over Kawartha Lakes. Her advice for taking great photos on and around our lakes? Get outside and try it! “There is so much beauty in the outdoors.”

@oneill_photography_21

From roadsides full of wildflowers to split rail fences to sunkissed lakes and gently rolling fields of round bales, you’ll find beautiful backdrops pretty much everywhere you look in Kawartha Lakes. Here are a few suggestions from some talented local photographers. Get out, have fun and remember to tag us!

THE RUINS IN OLD MILL PARK No matter the season, the picturesque remains of a stone mill on the banks of the Scugog River in Lindsay are the perfect backdrop for your photo shoot. This image is from local amateur photographer Julie Walmsley. Her tip for outdoor photography is to try for “golden hours” — one hour before sunset and one hour after sunrise. “This time of day creates a softer and warmer light that adds overall radiance to the photos.” And of course, there are fewer people around then, too.

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THE CHICKADEES AT KEN REID CONSERVATION AREA This is an exception to the don’t-feed-the-animals rule.

These adorable little birds are habituated to humans and will fly down to eat from your hand.

Bring raw sunflower seeds in the shell and head to the foot bridge just off the Cedar Forest Loop trail. Kathryn Frank, who took these photos, recharges by wandering around in nature and trying to capture a bit of the beauty she sees.

@_katy.did.it_

THE LITTLE SUNFLOWER FARM Watch for this Insta-friendly location opening in late August. The beautiful field of golden sunflowers offers photographers all kinds of enticing angles. It’s just north of the lights at Highway 7 & 35. (The bigger home location is near Beaverton.)

@thesunflowerfarm

a kawartha lakes moment

Boats moving from one level of water to another, bypassing rapids and waterfalls as they sit in giant chambers that fill with water and empty it out again? No big deal. We’re pretty used to it here, but it’s interesting, for sure, so feel free to hang out by the locks for as long as you want.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING MAY Harvest of Quilts, Bobcaygeon Kawartha Lakes Arts Council: Made in Kawartha Lakes artist and artisan show at Kawartha Settlers’ Village Globus Theatre: The Dating Game

SEPTEMBER Flato Academy Theatre: Listen to the Music (Doobie Brothers tribute), Aeroforce (Aerosmith tribute), Dreamer (Supertramp tribute), Relive the Music 50s & 60s Show Globus Theatre: Buying the Farm, Poster Boy (play reading) Grove Theatre: ElliottBROOD, Gilson Lubin (comedy), Big Sugar, The Jim Cuddy Band Lindsay Exhibition Bobcaygeon Fair Victoria County Studio Tour

JUNE Camaro Club Show at Lindsay Exhibition Grounds Globus Theatre: The Dating Game Flato Academy Theatre: Music of the Night, Ian Thomas Grove Theatre: Carole King tribute

International Plowing Match & Rural Expo (Lindsay Exhibition Grounds, various locations) Victoria County Studio Tour (5-6)

JULY

Globus Theatre: Buying the Farm, Early Morning Rain: The Music of Gordon Lightfoot

Pride Week

Flato Academy Theatre: Simply Queen (tribute), Mudmen

Globus Theatre: This Day in Sports (podcast), Where You Live, Bond, James Bond: The Music of 007, Who Killed the King? (dinner theatre)

Lindsay Little Theatre: Nursery Crimes: The Catnap Kidnap Caper

Grove Theatre: Into the Woods, Carole King and Elton John tributes, Steven Page, Good Lovelies, Julian Taylor Band & David Francey

NOVEMBER

Flato Academy Theatre: The Liverpool 4 (Beatles tribute) Sturgeon Point Art Show Fenelon Fair Classics on Kent car show, Lindsay

AUGUST Civic Regatta (Sturgeon Point, Civic Holiday weekend) Globus Theatre: Who Killed the King? (dinner theatre), The Ladies Foursome Grove Theatre: Into the Woods, Dolly Parton and ABBA tributes, Measha Brueggergosman-Lee, Elvira Kurt (comedy), Girls’ Nite Out (comedy) Kinmount Fair (Aug. 30 - Sept.1) 70

OCTOBER

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Globus Theatre: Murder at the Snowball Ball (dinner theatre) Lindsay Little Theatre: Polls Apart Kawartha Lakes Arts Council: Winter Makers' Market Flato Academy Theatre: Still the One (Shania Twain tribute) Fenelon Falls Santa Day (30)

DECEMBER Globus Theatre: Aladdin (British panto) Flato Academy Theatre: Soul of Motown Christmas All information correct at time of printing.

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A TRANSFORMATION OF GRANDEUR INTRODUCING A MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITY COMING TO LINDSAY

GRAND OPENING STARTING OCT. 28!

CALL 416-848-2000 OR EMAIL: INFO@CAPTAINREALESTATE.CA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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register at graceandgrand.ca