The Lindsay Advocate - December 2023 by Fireside Publishing House

Multicultural traditions in Kawartha Lakes

Sharing is caring, but do we give time, as well as money?

How Lindsay's rapid growth could affect health and education

Kawartha Lakes’ Premier News Magazine • December 2023

Happy Holidays

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DECEMBER 2023 • VOL. 6 • ISSUE 67

The Advocate is published monthly & distributed through diverse businesses & locations throughout Kawartha Lakes & North Durham. 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/Business Development: Rebekah McCracken Online News Editor: Ian McKechnie Contributing Editor: Trevor Hutchinson Contributors: Kirk Winter Ginny Colling Denise Waldron Geoff Coleman David Rapaport Amanda Tayles

Susan Tate, with the Fenelon Falls Lions Club, says the club continues to try and recurit new members, especially younger adults.

Art Direction + Design: Barton Creative Co. Christina Dedes Photographers: Sienna Frost Geoff Coleman Web Developer: Kimberly Durrant Printed By: Cofax Printing Cover image: A small food bank in Fenelon Falls maintained by Ruth Anne AtkinsonClements and her husband, Andrew Atkinson-Clements. Photo: Geoff Coleman.

feature 14

cover 24

feature 32

There are many ways to celebrate holidays in December, depending on one's faith and passion.

Money and time are ways to show we care, but the latter is the most difficult commitment to get.

Education and health are two areas of concern for town's growth.

• every issue • letters to the editor 4 • upfront + business upfront 6 • benns’ belief 9

Please send editorial inquiries to Roderick Benns at roderick@lindsayadvocate.ca or by calling 705-341-1496. Send advertising inquiries to Rebekah McCracken at rebekah@lindsayadvocate.ca or by calling 705-328-5188, or to Cara Baycroft at 905-431-4638. PRIVACY POLICY: The Lindsay Advocate 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 Photos, text & art work contained in The Lindsay Advocate are copyrighted & may not be published, broadcast or rewritten without the express permission of the Publisher.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.

the sports advocate 40 • great reads 45 • cool tips for a hot planet 49 just in time 50 • the marketplace 57 • trevor’s take 58

The business of journalism must be part of a new ecology — one that is not separate from community, pretending always to be objective — but rather one that is deeply embedded in community, its intentions made plain. We advocate for a community of prosperity, socially and economically, with no one left behind. — Roderick Benns, Publisher

“A point of view can be a dangerous luxury when substituted for insight and understanding.” — Marshall McLuhan

to the editor

Government should intervene to ensure bus service survives An open letter to area MPPs and MPs.

Tax investors to help keep home ownership in reach Canada’s housing is being taken over by investors. Looking at CMHC stats from 2004 until 2022 the investor share of Toronto properties climbed from 20 per cent to 36 per cent. Why is the government turning a blind eye and not doing anything to combat the rich investors from taking properties away from (other) Canadians? Only the government can reverse this troubling trend through taxation, such as imposing a 20 per cent tax added to the purchase price in investment properties. — Pam Mitchell, Lindsay

Feeling a little crowded in Lindsay I enjoyed reading “CAO says city is attempting to manage extraordinary growth” in the November Advocate. As a family caught in the middle of the building happening north of Lindsay, I am not a fan. With the roads always busy now and the speed issue, more people aren’t always a positive solution. Habits are not quick to change. Supposedly 2,000 homes being built, two schools, park trail green space. Affordable? Probably not. Places to shop? We haven’t heard. Maybe I’m being too quick to judge but those of us that aren’t comfortable with neighbourhoods going up around us may feel crowded out and feel the urge to move away. A burb of Toronto isn’t my idea of peaceful country life. — D. McGriskin, Lindsay

The bus that goes to Haliburton from Toronto, through Lindsay and Fenelon Falls, is being discontinued as of Jan. 31. I believe I am not the only one who relies on it. I have been taking this bus to Fenelon Falls since 1978. (I live in Oshawa.) I don’t drive and my mother still lives in Fenelon. I ask why there is so much money to subsidize transit in Toronto but nothing for the people who live northeast, outside of the large urban areas? I have met several fellow passengers over the years who take this bus to get to doctors and hospitals in the city. It is disheartening to find out this bus is not subsidized when there are 10 buses a day going to Peterborough from the GTA. But no money to ensure people can go home to elderly parents on a bus that only runs three days a week? Once the bus is discontinued, I have no way of seeing my mother unless I pay for a taxi, Uber, or ask a friend. I am retired, paid taxes all my career, and every year it gets more difficult to get by. At least, until now, I could still make a trip to visit my mother before she dies. I am asking that you do something to ensure this bus continues to run, for all of us who do not have any alternatives. — Monika Nabokow, Oshawa

Bill Speer another great Lindsay hockey player Good article re Vince Dunn (October edition of the Advocate) but I would be remiss to not mention another well known Lindsay player, namely Bill Speer who played with Bobby Orr and won the Stanley Cup with the Boston Bruins. Bill’s wife and family still live in the Lindsay area, although Bill passed away in a snowmobile accident some years ago. — D’Arcy McGee, Kawartha Lakes

Send us your thoughts to be featured here! 4

The Advocate welcomes your letters. We do not publish anonymous letters unless it’s a matter of public importance and/or someone risks harm by writing us. We publish under strict guidelines & only if we can verify the person’s identity. Simply email roderick@lindsayadvocate.ca. Keep your letters to 200 words or less.

Love for Kawartha Social

DID YOU KNOW...

WE’RE MORE THAN JUST A LENDER?

Just wanted to tell you how thrilled we are to see and read Kawartha Social, a lovely magazine, especially with Tracy (Richardson) on the cover, our (municipal) representative in Janetville – a hardworking soul.

We provide business counselling and advisory services to entrepreneurs and small business owners in Kawartha Lakes, even if you never receive ﬁnancial support from us.

We appreciate having a Kawartha connection, now that there is no local paper. Keep up the excellent work, look forward every month to your Advocate issues, too.

www.klcfdc.com

— Susan Beattie, Janetville

I want to congratulate you on Kawartha Social. I truly enjoyed reading through this and can't wait to see more. The community connection was truly captured throughout, and it is beautifully put together. The local gift guide was definitely a standout for me. — Laura LeMiere, Janetville

Innovate. Incubate. Inspire.

Congratulations on the launch of Kawartha Social. Your inaugural edition looks fantastic, and I love that you featured Tracy Richardson. It’s wonderful to see local media that is thriving. Keep it up! — Kim Coulter, Kawartha Lakes

I just picked up a copy of the first edition of Kawartha Social and I absolutely love it. Great layout, interesting stories, nice tips and great local marketing. Fabulous product. — Joan Abernethy, Lindsay

Congratulations to Fireside Publishing House for this fresh new initiative designed to introduce readers to community gems, culture and extraordinary services. As a newcomer to Lindsay, I read with the greatest of interest, and was left with a favourable impression of the first edition in terms of presentation and content. Denise Waldron’s sharp and tempered interview skills certainly shine in the article “Being Tracy.” Also, the columns Fashion File and Canvas captured my attention. Thanks to all contributors, and I look forward to receiving future editions.

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— Bruce Stonehouse, Lindsay

lindsayadvocate.ca

upfront •

Burning Bridges is comprised of many local faces.

The building has six rent-geared-to-income units.

Women’s Resources needs help to 'Open The Door' Jane Chapman, chair of the board for Women’s Resources is asking for help from the community to complete the renovation on their new Second Stage Housing facility in Lindsay. Their “Open The Door” capital campaign has a goal of $500,000 with funds still to be raised. The build includes six rent-geared-to-income units for women and their children to stay for up to two years. But it is not just an apartment, it is a program. Residents will receive counselling, education and social skills training. The location is close to public transportation, schools, churches, grocery stores and legal services. “Our hope is for the apartments to be completed by the new year, but we need additional financial support from the community for this to happen,” says Chapman. Visit womensresources.ca for more information.

Local band, Burning Bridges, shoots most recent video in Memorial Park, Lindsay With a membership drawn from both Lindsay and Peterborough, local band Burning Bridges has been rocking the stage since 2020. Members include Wes Tustin on lead vocals and guitar, Alli Stanbury on guitar, Phil English on drums and backing vocals and Matt Freake on bass. They have opened up locally for artists such as Bif Naked, Tech N9ne, Harm and Ease, The Killjoys, and illScarlett, and were also found performing this year at Lindsay’s PYROFEST. Burning Bridges currently has four songs out; the most recent song Running off the Tracks was just released in November 2023. The music video was shot at Memorial Park in Lindsay, and fittingly incorporated the trains and tracks on display there. Future plans for the band include another song release in the new year, writing new material and live performances. Fans can stay up to date with the band on social media @officialburningbridges and at burningbridges.ca.

• business upfront

Michele Gridley, owner, says the extra space will allow for a "testing station." Photo: Sienna Frost.

Gridley’s takes over Chesler Shoes old location For over a decade, Michele Sauve has been making handmade soap, a variety of moisturizers, liquid soap, bath products, and much more through her business, Gridley’s Creative Bath and Body. What began as a home-based shop in Woodville back in 2011 relocated to Lindsay in October 2022. Now, more than a year on, Sauve has moved from her William Street store and will be reopening at 73 Kent St. W., in early December. “I am venturing into some cleaning products such as solid dish soap, cleaning paste and I also offer soapmaking workshops and plan to establish a studio where students can book table space and work on their own soap,” says Sauve about what’s in store for Gridley’s. Thanks to the store’s open-concept design, customers will be able to see where products are made and will likewise be able to sample products at an in-store testing station. Sauve’s “Soapy Studio,” meanwhile, will offer classes and table bookings for students to work on soap-related projects. More about Gridley’s and the array of products it offers can be found at gridleys.ca

Terry Guiel is the new executive director of the LDCC.

Lindsay Chamber lands former Peterborough BIA head as new executive director The Lindsay District Chamber of Commerce (LDCC) has hired Terry Guiel as its new executive director, formerly the long-time ED of the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area. With over a decade of experience in that role, Guiel brings “a wealth of expertise, passion, and community spirit to his new role,” according to a media release. Guiel's diverse background includes serving as a City of Peterborough councillor, legal assistant, professional entertainer and event organizer. He orchestrated the 2003 Peterborough Flood Concert, which raised $1.5 million for flood victims and has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for various organizations. Expressing his enthusiasm for his new role, Guiel says he is “deeply honoured to take the helm of this historic chamber of commerce at a time when chambers are more important than ever.” “Lindsay is like a second home to me, so this new role fits me perfectly."

lindsayadvocate.ca

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• benns' belief

In defence of work By Roderick Benns Publisher

Christmas is Coming

Plan for your holiday dinner

NOW!

In North American society we typically define ourselves by what we do. After meeting someone socially it’s almost always the first question on the tip of our tongues: “So, what do you do?” (We don’t even have to say “for a living” because culturally and contextually, our meaning is clear.) My grandfather worked as a lumberman. My mother worked in a retirement residence’s kitchen. My close friend is a paramedic (well, now he's an executive manager of a large paramedic service.) These jobs help define who they are.

A purposeful life is generally a happy life. It doesn’t mean we must find only one purpose.

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Elon Musk and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently sat down for an hour to talk about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the future of work. Musk claimed that “no job is needed” in the future since AI will be able to do everything for us. He says the only reason people will have a job in the future is for “personal satisfaction.”

I believe both men are right but for now will side with Sunak. That’s because at this moment in time it’s difficult to picture a world where the entire economic system would have to be altered to accommodate a workless society. Basic income would be a start, but (for me) that always was the basis for people having more choice. I have always seen it as a springboard which people could use to feel more comfortable, as they transitioned into more fulfilling career opportunities, without fear of poverty in between. A purposeful life is generally a happy life. It doesn’t mean we must find only one purpose. Today’s average younger worker will invariably change careers several times compared to workers of previous generations. But the point is to find meaning in what we choose to do. Ideally, we do this forever. The dream of retiring from the world of work should be replaced with a new purpose. Whether that’s volunteering, a side hustle that keeps us connected with others, or lots of family time, if desired. As The Walrus magazine noted in its most recent issue, shortened life expectancy can be predicted by a lack of purpose.

“I think we are seeing the most disruptive force in history here,” Musk said, and that “there will come a point where no job is needed.” In other words, we will be looking for other ways to find meaning in life.

A meta-analysis from 2010 combined research from 148 studies involving hundreds of thousands of people to show that social connection and purpose increased survival rates by 50 per cent.

However, the British PM disagreed with Musk, saying: "I am someone who believes work gives you meaning.”

So, what do you do? It doesn’t have to be world-changing but ideally it brings you joy or purpose.

lindsayadvocate.ca

• editorial •

Caring is sharing time, as well as money In recent years, Canada has witnessed a disheartening trend in the diminishing presence of service clubs across the nation. Once vibrant hubs of community engagement and philanthropy, clubs like Lions and Rotary and many others are experiencing a steady decline in membership and activity. This downward trajectory raises concerns about the potential repercussions for local communities and the spirit of volunteerism, as our cover story this month touches on. A study conducted by the Canadian Association of Service Clubs indicates a 20 per cent decline in overall membership over the past decade. This trend is particularly alarming, given the vital role these clubs have historically played in fostering a sense of unity and civic responsibility. What factors contribute to this decline? We know, in part, it is the changing nature of social interaction. In an era dominated by digital connectivity, traditional service clubs face stiff competition from online platforms that offer convenient alternatives for socializing and networking. The younger generations often favour virtual communities over physical gatherings, leading to a gradual erosion of the traditional club model. The demands of our lifestyles today may be taking a toll on the willingness and availability of people to commit time to service activities. With hectic work schedules, family obligations, and the constant pressure to balance multiple commitments, the prospect of dedicating regular hours to a service club becomes challenging, which is why groups like 100 Women Who Care and its offshoots, are certainly needed. They raise much needed funds for local Kawartha Lakes causes. However, we also require people to step up IRL (In Real Life), as young people say. There may be ways to arrest the decline. Civic leaders and club members should explore innovative ways to adapt, whether through digital outreach, flexible meeting schedules, or targeted efforts to engage younger demographics. Revitalizing local service clubs requires a concerted effort to make these organizations more accessible and appealing for all ages.

• spotlight letter •

Will columnist help pay property taxes? In “Lack of heritage designation for Mackenzie Mansion was a mistake,” November Advocate, Trevor Hutchinson felt that the new owners of the Kirkfield property should be compelled by government to designate their private property as a heritage site. Jeff and Estrella Margolian presented a deputation to city council with arguments why they should not be forced by the city to do so. Hutchinson believes it is “the job of local government to protect and enrich our shared history for future generations.” If this is true, Hutchinson may wish to personally pay the property tax on the mansion every year in perpetuity to compensate the Margolian’s for their sacrifice, since he feels so strongly about the heritage matter. At the very least, the city should waive all taxes and pay off all debt on the property in payment to the new owners who will serve as the custodians of this alleged public asset. — Gene Balfour, Fenelon Falls

• opinion

Still waiting for the bus David Rapaport is an adjunct professor of sociology at Trent University. He lives in Lindsay.

Just when it seems that things cannot get worse, things somehow manage to get worse. In the December 2022 issue of the Lindsay Advocate, I wrote an op-ed piece called “Where’s the Bus?”. I complained that a community of 23,000, had no intercity bus or train travel to Toronto, Oshawa or Peterborough. Unless you own a car, you are basically stranded in the city – not all that far from (much) lower population centres that do have regular access to the GO system, bringing them in contact with the GO train system originating or ending in Oshawa. I was wrong. At the time we did have a feeble three-timesa-week bus (both ways) service that runs between Haliburton and Toronto by TOK Coach Lines with a Lindsay stop. TOK recently announced that the service is being discontinued on Jan. 31, 2024 – Happy New Year. I argued last year, and still argue now that we need a GO service, one that connects us with Oshawa and Peterborough. The 88 bus connects Peterborough with the Oshawa GO train station – 12 times daily. Surely, there is a way that Lindsay residents can be added to that service – or establish a regular two-way service to the 35/115 GO stop – or do something, anything – to give us a regular, reliable, affordable intercity bus service. A quick check with the Kawartha Lakes Taxi Service informs me that a trip to the Highway 35/115 GO Transit car pool would cost me (or anybody else) around $95 – depending on where the trip starts or ends in Lindsay. The ball is now in the court of our local politicians, particularly the office of our MPP, Laurie Scott. Scott has been our MPP since 2003 – with a short hiatus between 2009 and

2011. And she has been in cabinet. Scott was minister of infrastructure in the Doug Ford government between 2020 and 2021. GO Transit is a Crown corporation, created by and accountable to the provincial government. In fact, GO is an acronym for Government of Ontario. So, my question to Scott is, where’s the bus? We’re still waiting. It is too early in the life of the current Kawartha Lakes Council to pass judgment. But this is a legacy issue, an important issue, where establishing a GO Transit link between Lindsay and the southern Ontario rail system would be a major achievement, one that substantially improves the lives of people in our growing city. The arguments that I presented one year ago still apply. If Lindsay is going to substantially grow in the next decade, as projected and as visible from development sites, we need intercity public transit. This particularly applies for an older population, one that runs the risk of losing driving privileges once turning 80. Lack of intercity public transit would be a Lindsay-destination disincentive for fleeing Torontonians seeking quiet and refuge elsewhere. The indigent, those who cannot afford a car (or the $95 taxi fee) are denied employment and education prospects elsewhere. And we need the greener option of travelling elsewhere. Studies repeatedly show that buses use far less carbon-based fuel per capita than privately owned cars. I hope (and encourage) that there are conversations between our local leaders and GO Transit. A strong economic and transit case is there for a bus service. Hopefully, my long wait for the bus will soon end. Winter is practically here and I’m getting cold.

lindsayadvocate.ca

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feature •

Diversity of holidays celebrated in December across Kawartha Lakes By Denise Waldron

December is a month filled with a rich tapestry of celebrations from various cultural and religious backgrounds. From Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights celebrated by Jewish communities, to the Winter Solstice, a time when Wiccans and Neo-Pagans mark the return of longer days, and the Muslim holidays of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which reflect themes of fasting, charity, and remembrance. December is also home to Christmas, a festive season marked by generosity, decorations, and gatherings, regardless of religious affiliation. These December celebrations remind us of the diversity and shared values that unite people in Kawartha Lakes.

Muslim Celebrations Eid al-Fitr is a holiday at the end of Ramadan, a month when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. During Ramadan, the breaking of each day's fast typically involves a meal with family and often friends. Once the month is over, they have a big celebration meal with family and friends, say special prayers, and may give gifts to each other. Often shortened to just Eid, it is celebrated about two months later and 10 days after Ramadan ends and lasts four 14

days. It is a holiday to remember the Prophet Abraham. He was ready to sacrifice his son as God asked him in a dream. God gave him a sheep to sacrifice instead of his son. Muslims will sacrifice a sheep, a cow, a goat, or some other animal. During this time, the distribution of the meat is onethird for the family, one-third for friends, and one-third to the poor. Some make a pilgrimage to Mecca as well. As Muslims follow a lunar calendar that is 10 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, the dates of both celebrations change each year, and either holiday may occur in December in some years. Abdul Sangrar is a Lindsay Muslim who says both celebrations are equally important to him. Breaking the fast after Ramadan with a meal with family and friends is a "real feast," and the giving of meat during Eid is his favourite aspect of the later celebration. Along with his wife and their families, they tend to go out for dinner, or have it catered as they have grown too large to hold celebrations in their homes. Sangrar is a nuclear medicine technologist at Ross Memorial Hospital and is originally from Kenya. He has donated meat to local food banks and buys a whole cow or goats for

orphanages back home to mark the holiday. "That particular festival is very good because when we interact with people, we remember the poor."

Hanukkah Hanukkah is a holiday celebrated by Jews, and it lasts for eight days. It is sometimes called the Festival of Lights and usually falls in December. Lindsay realtor Ari Zider, who is Jewish, says Jews celebrate their victory over a tyrant king and the rededication of the temple in Jerusalem. "The miracle is that this oil lasted for eight days." During Hanukkah, Jewish families light a special menorah with nine candles. One candle is used to light the others. Zider says he loves to make potato pancakes called latkes. His family also prepares matzo ball soup, another traditional Hanukkah food. Zider says he has the best of both worlds as his wife is Christian. Along with their two daughters, they celebrate both holidays. "Eight days of holidays, eight days of presents or money, and for us, we just combine it with Christmas."

Winter Solstice Yule Wiccans and Neo-Pagans celebrate the winter solstice on Dec. 21 with the festival of Yule. The celebration starts with a trip through a forest or on a hiking trail to forage for seasonal items to be used in home decor for the celebration. Wiccan solstices or sabbaths rely heavily on using as much as you can from nature. Lindsay Wiccan Sydney Crane and her husband, celebrate the Yule dinner with family and friends, and she notes the menu typically remains the same as Christmas fare, but it's a common practice to use symbolism in the cuisine, such as baking bread or buns in the shape of the sun or carving appropriate runes and symbols onto the bottom of a pie crust before baking. Crane uses pinecones and needles, along with dried orange slices, for garlands and to decorate. The orange slices symbolize the sun or sun god who is asleep or ‘dead’ for the winter. She notes there are also certain herbs, crystals, symbols, and even colours that correspond with Yule. Gift-giving during the Yule celebration is key, said Crane, with family members making each other handmade items such as jams, knitted socks or sweaters, a favourite dessert, candles, lotions, or anything as long as it's homemade. The best part, according to Crane, is foraging with her family. She said it feels like one of the best ways to bond as a family without phones and just out walking and talking. "It's really beautiful."

Ari Zider says during Hanukkah, Jewish families light a special menorah with nine candles. Photo: Sienna Frost.

lindsayadvocate.ca

Breaking the fast after Ramadan with a meal with family and friends is a "real feast," says Lindsay's Abdul Sangrar. Photo: Sienna Frost.

Lindsay Wiccan Sydney Crane and her husband, Spencer Crane. The best part of being Wiccan, according to Sydney, is foraging with her family. Photo: Sienna Frost. 16

Christmas Christmas is a holiday celebrated on Dec. 25. It celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Many who are not Christians also celebrate Christmas because it's a time for happiness, kindness, and spending time with loved ones. Children may wake up to find gifts from Santa Claus in their stockings. Christmas trees are adorned with ornaments, and homes may be festooned with lights and decor for the season as well. Most people mark the day with a large meal featuring a turkey or ham, potatoes, and many vegetables and sweets. Wendy Witt is a real estate business owner in Fenelon who loves to spend Christmas with her family. Her three children are now grown with their own children, and the family does not get to spend Dec. 25 together often, but usually meet a few weeks before to celebrate. In the early years of parenthood, Witt says they would celebrate two Christmases — with two big, traditional meals. Witt's husband is German. The first celebration would be on the eve of Dec. 24, replete with a German sweet and sour red cabbage dish added to the meal and a call to the children from their German Oma and Opa. In keeping with their father's heritage, the children would also open a gift from their grandparents. Witt used to sing in the Fenelon Falls United Church choir during the Christmas holidays as well.

owners would give their employees and staff Christmas leftovers and other presents, sent home in boxes on Dec. 26. Other sources say the holiday was meant to collect donations for the poor. Great Britain and some Commonwealth countries, including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, celebrate modern Boxing Day traditions with shopping and sporting events. While Joy Cross does enjoy finding bargains on Boxing Day, she embraces one of the original ideas of helping others as she shops to fill charity boxes for the next year. Cross supports the Samaritan's Purse project, Operation Christmas Child. The program collects shoebox gifts filled with fun toys, school supplies, and personal care items — and delivers them to children in need around the world. The Fenelon Falls resident and hospice services worker in Lindsay prepares for the day by scouring sale flyers beforehand. If she knows anyone heading to Peterborough, she may ask them to hunt down larger sale items.

While finding deals on Boxing Day is important to Cross, the best part for her is spending time with her family on Dec. 26.

Other Holidays Although we couldn't find local people celebrating them, other important holidays at this time of year include Kwanzaa, which is based on African harvest festival traditions from various parts of West and Southeast Africa.

With the Witt children now grown and four grandchildren in the mix, Witt says when they can celebrate Christmas together — usually every other year — it is her best-loved tradition of the holiday.

There's also Ōmisoka, celebrating activities Japanese people do on the final day of the year. To usher in the new year, families and their children clean their homes to prepare for the New Year.

Boxing Day was said to originate in the 1800s in Great Britain. Flush business

Unique ornaments, artificial flowers & wreaths, holiday home decor, LED water lanterns & globes.

But shopping local is always part of her plan, never missing a trip to the Red Apple department store in Fenelon Falls. "They do a huge sale on Boxing Day that most people don't want to miss!"

On Christmas Day, the three Witt children would open gifts and enjoy the day and a turkey dinner with family. Their parents would invite guests to join them if they did not have anyone to spend the holiday with.

Boxing Day

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Christmas Queries Team Advocate Advocate's 's holiday scenarios

Robyn Barton

Kirk Winter

♥ Any cliche Hallmark movie - a guilty holiday pleasure of mine!

♥ Arthur Christmas, assuming I get to be Santa.

★ Somewhere that feels like the ultimate Christmas wonderland, like Finland (They have a Santa Claus Village).

★ Norway. Many of my father's extended family still live in the "old country." Not only would a trip to Norway be a chance to connect with people I have only heard about, but Christmas Eve overlooking the fjords of Trondheim would be breathtaking.

✀ I am going with Seth Rogen... imagine getting to listen to that iconic laugh for the holidays? A perfect gift. ♦ It's got to be the stuffing, any casseroles and my mom and sister's Christmas baking.

♥

If you had to live in a holiday movie, what one would you choose?

Sienna Frost ♥ The Christmas Chronicles. ★ Siena, Italy. I’d love to see the beautiful light displays created throughout the town square.

✀ Christine Sinclair, Canada's greatest living soccer player. I would love to sit and talk with her about the tremendous challenges that both she and the Canadian women's program have faced over the last two decades, and where she thinks the sport is going. ♦ Dressing, turkey, and my wife's Christmas baking. Nothing else is necessary for an awesome holiday season.

✀ Russell Peters.

★

If you couldn’t spend the holidays in Canada, what country would you choose and why?

✀

Which famous (living) Canadian would you spend the holidays with?

♦

What three foods or dishes do you pick for the ultimate holiday meal?

♦ Mashed potatoes, wild turkey and lemon meringue pie.

Lisa Hart ♥ Unlikely Angel.

Denise Waldron ♥ A Christmas Story. Sentimental and whimsical, with Ralphie trying to dodge his bully and anticipating his Christmas wish for a red Ryder air rifle, without shooting his eye out. ★ The Gold Coast, Australia. With temperatures between 20-28 Celsius in December, interesting activities and the pull of a daughter who lives there, it would be my ideal sojourn. ✀ Mary Simon, Canada's first Indigenous governor general. She is known for her work on Arctic and Indigenous issues, youth, education and culture. She would have many interesting stories to tell. ♦ My late mother's spaghetti, her gooey, cheesy garlic bread and a chocolate mousse cake. (While pasta is not very festive, a traditional turkey dinner with only two other foods would feel like day three leftovers after Christmas!)

★ If I could I'd spend the holidays in Scotland to enjoy the music and explore some distant branches of my family tree. ✀ Terri Clark. ♦ Turkey, dressing and apple pie.

Amanda Tayles ♥ A Christmas Story. It hits close to home. ★ Christmas isn’t the same without snow, so it would have to be in the northern hemisphere. Would love to experience the holiday traditions and outdoor Christmas markets of Germany or Austria. ✀ The best part of the holidays is gathering with family and all the laughs. I would love to have Mike Myers join in to add to the “chirps.” ♦ Some of the classics - turkey with fixings, buttery mashed potatoes and roasted brussels sprouts with pancetta and maple syrup.

Rebekah McCracken

Nancy Payne

Geoff Coleman

♥ Elf. Because who doesn't love maple syrup on spaghetti?!

♥ It's a Wonderful Life, because family and community are everything, and I want to live where people take care of each other.

♥ Die Hard. Even with the debate over whether it is a holiday movie or not. Yippee-ii-ay-kayaa.

★ Costa Rica with my family. Toes in the sand. Listening to the surf. Pura Vida. ✀ Ryan Reynolds. He is hilarious and has donated generously to Sick Kids Hospital and many other deserving causes over the years. It would also be a pretty cool story for my son to tell his friends that he spent Christmas with Deadpool. ♦ My daughter's Cajun turkey, stuffing and my homemade sweet potato pie.

★ Somewhere with different traditions, like Sweden or Denmark, although I'd love to wander an authentic Austrian Christmas market. ✀ I mean, Margaret Atwood, obviously. She's brilliant, socially and environmentally aware, and hilarious. ♦ I'd skip right to the day-after turkey sandwich (dressing, cranberry sauce, lettuce and mayo), with my brother's Scottish-style shortbread and a big glass of cold Kawartha Dairy milk.

Ginny Colling ♥ White Christmas. I love the singing and dancing. I know the failings of the movie - the racism and sexism - but I like to focus on the uplifting parts. ★ Brittany, France. My grandmother’s family emigrated from there, and I still have relatives there today. They make awesome Breton cake (shortbread in cake form). ✀ David Suzuki. The problem is, neither of us would fly to join the other’s family. ♦ Turkey and dressing. My mom’s zucchini creole. And grandma’s Breton cake.

Roderick Benns ♥ Love, Actually. I think just for the scene at 10 Downing Street when the PM stands up to the U.S. president. ★ Iceland. They have a tradition of exchanging new books as gifts on Christmas Eve (known as Jolabokaflod), followed by an evening of reading and enjoying traditional Icelandic chocolates. ✀ Sarah McLachlan. Ideally, she’d have a piano and be singing holiday songs softly in the background (instead of in an overwrought Mariah Carey way.) ♦ Duck, mashed potatoes, asparagus.

Christina Dedes ♥ Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is absolutely magical. This stop-motion classic, with its iconic soundtrack, is a true testament to being yourself and finding your tribe. ★ Greece. It’s typically 5 - 15 degrees throughout the winter, and their traditional desserts like Melomakarona (Christmas Honey Cookies) are to die for. Endless mountain ranges offer opportunities for winter sports. ✀ Ryan Reynolds. I think the combination of wit and humour, along with his entrepreneurial insights, would make for a fun holiday season. ♦ Honey glazed ham and roasted seasonal veggies. Pillsbury ready-tobake sugar cookies for dessert.

★ Being in Bethlehem on Christmas morning seems like the ultimate way to celebrate this holiday. Except this year. So, sunny Christmas Island for some snorkelling instead. ✀ Bruce Cockburn. I suspect he’s got good stories that would make one appreciate what they have, and he’d probably provide some great after dinner music. ♦ Wild turkey, deep fried like my neighbour Gerry Garvey does it. A throw-back salad my Auntie Val used to make that I think was made from orange Jello whipped with cream cheese and had mandarin orange slices suspended in it. Mom’s pumpkin pie. Cold. With whipped cream.

Cara Baycroft ♥ Home Alone: Lost in New York. ★ It would have to be Finland, as it is said to be the home of the man, the myth, the legend...Santa Claus! ✀ Jim Carrey. ♦ Butternut squash soup, mash potatoes, and pumpkin pie.

Ian McKechnie ♥ Probably The Polar Express (being a railway enthusiast).

♥ Bad Santa.

★ England – specifically a charming, cozy little village in the Yorkshire Dales called Kettlewell. It is so picturesque and probably looks lovely at Christmastime!

★ Wales. I'd go watch some footy, drink Wrexham Lager and read Dylan Thomas.

✀ The public intellectual, writer, and 28th governor general of Canada, the Right Honourable David Johnston.

✀ Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

♦ A light salad, tourtiere, and Scottish shortbread – all washed down with Kawartha Dairy eggnog.

Trevor Hutchinson

♦ Tofurkey, mashed potatoes and sugared baby carrots. lindsayadvocate.ca

Launch for Kawartha Social Fireside Publishing House recently held a launch party for its new lifestyle magazine, Kawartha Social. More than 80 people were on hand, including Mayor Doug Elmslie and half of council, to show their support. All photos by Sienna Frost. Left: Publisher Roderick Benns and Editor Rebekah McCracken, show off the first edition. Below: Erica Ehm, of MuchMusic fame and a renowned speaker is a regular columnist for Kawartha Social and served as the evening's host.

Right: Rhonda Laursen, a local artist who was featured in Kawartha Social.

Local musician Rob Barg was on hand to provide the music.

Susan Tate, of the Fenelon Falls Lions Club. Photo: Geoff Coleman.

• cover story

Who cares? It takes money and time to make real community change, say local volunteers By Geoff Coleman

It’s lonelier being a Lion these days – at least compared to 1974. The Fenelon Falls Lions Club celebrates its 50th anniversary next year. Thirty members joined when they chartered in 1974. Since then, they have contributed to Ross Memorial Hospital, donated to Lions Foundation of Canada Guide Dogs and The Five Counties Children’s Centre, and made countless other philanthropic gifts. But they are also doing so with half the number of members today than when they started. This kind of attrition is affecting many service clubs in our area, and while the spirit of giving has not necessarily gone, it has certainly taken a different form. Susan Tate, with the Fenelon Falls Lions Club, says the club continues to be an active part of the community, but is recruiting new and especially young members. “We know we are competing with a dozen other groups in town from the Rotary Club to the Horticultural Society.” Brad Fraser, president of the Lindsay Kinsmen Club has had a similar experience. “Younger members are very difficult to bring on. Service clubs used to be a huge part of a person’s social life: parties, outings, camaraderie, sense of belonging. It is different now. I think people don’t want to get stuck in a position forever.”

It is hard to name an organization that Barb Truax does not have some connection to in the Lindsay philanthropic community. With over 50 years of volunteer experience, the past Lindsay Citizen of the Year honouree speaks from a position of experience. She believes most service groups are looking for new membership, particularly at a leadership level. There are a healthy number of volunteers, but fewer individuals ready to take over and chair a committee or preside over the club. Volunteer Canada’s Megan Conway, president and CEO, told CBC News this year that up to 65 per cent of organizations in the country are struggling with a shortage of volunteers. Up to 35 per cent of those groups had to reduce their service level because of this. So why don’t people join service clubs today? The answer may lie in the success of the 100 Women Who Care, 100 Men and 100 Kids groups. As Sharon Robbins, one of three women who started the Lindsay 100 Women group, explains, the group appealed to her on many levels. “It was participatory, it was for women, it was direct, and it was local.” It’s a simple model. Quarterly meetings are held where three people speak on behalf of three different charities. After presentations, a vote is held and the winning charity receives the club’s donation for that quarter, which amounts to $100 per voter.

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Robbins also values the follow-up that comes in the subsequent meeting when the winning organization explains what was done with the donation. The other appealing aspect is that the process is quick. Meetings are structured so they are over in an hour. One can donate and be home in about as much time as it takes to get groceries and run a couple errands, assuming you don’t hit all the red lights on Kent Street.

65 per cent of organizations in the country are struggling with a shortage of volunteers. Up to 35 per cent of those groups had to reduce their service level because of this.

Brad Campkin, an organizer for 100 Men Kawartha Lakes – which is now 153 men – echoed those sentiments. Campkin comes from a self-employment background and feels people are always on the clock now, answering texts and emails after traditional working hours, making time a valuable commodity. “We are all busy now. For every minute given, the family gets one less.” Truax adds that “in the past, one income was enough to get by, but today, it is much easier in a household with two wage earners. There just isn’t the free time available like there once was. And, what little there is left over is spent with kids.” Without joining any kind of a formal organization, there are myriad ways individual citizens can contribute to their communities in the time they have available, For example, one of two grassroots food banks operating in Fenelon Falls is maintained by Ruth Anne Atkinson-Clements and her husband, Andrew Atkinson-Clements. “We wanted to create a barrier-free food bank for anyone who needed help. No paperwork or proof of need required, just come if you need. Our desire to help others is based on our Christian beliefs that we are here on this earth to support and love others in need,” says Ruth Anne. The food cart has been in operation since 2019 and is open seven days a week, even during the non-snowy months. Another example is Chris Schweitzer, a former principal at LCVI. He was involved in the Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer, committing to raising $2,500 in donations for Princess Margaret Hospital before taking part in a two-day, 225 km bicycle ride from Toronto to Niagara Falls. “The last ride I did raised $17 million and had over 5,000 riders. They put it on your credit card if you don’t come up with it!” 26

Barb Truax is a serial volunteer. Photo: Geoff Coleman.

Ruth Anne Atkinson-Clements and her husband, Andrew Atkinson-Clements, near their little Fenelon Falls food bank. Photo: Geoff Coleman.

Steve and Susanne Robinson organize a car rally in support of the Make a Wish Foundation. This year, it came through Fenelon Falls and Coboconk and raised $38,000. It has been an annual event for more than 30 years and has raised nearly $1 million. Between creating the route and driving it a few times to make sure there are no bridges closed or new roads not appearing on maps, the couple easily puts two work weeks of time into it each year.

The Lions’ tree plantings, toy drives, annual fund-raising car show, or free vision and hearing testing in public schools don’t just happen because money exists for them.”

There just isn’t the free time available like there once was. And, what little there is left over is spent with kids.

Service clubs are at their best when involved in big projects that require many hands, and coordinated efforts, often involving contractors and various levels of government. The splash pad in Fenelon Falls and the washrooms at Wilson Fields in Lindsay are prime examples of substantial projects completed with the assistance of service clubs – in these cases, the Rotarians.

It's clear people still want to give financially, and they still give willingly of their time, just on their own terms. The question might not be why are service clubs in decline, it may be ‘why do they still exist?’ The answer may be the simple and overlooked fact that money alone doesn’t get things done. Susan Tate points out, “someone still needs to organize, coordinate and show up.

Fraser confirms this saying, “Our community loves and needs the Kinsmen Annual Christmas Toy Drive, but it is very difficult to run a labour-intensive project like that. It is not something an individual could pull off,” adding, “it is a challenge with our current membership and we would love new members.”

As important as financial donations are – a recent 100 Men of Kawartha Lakes meeting generated over $20,000 with the help of a contribution from the Lindsay Kinsmen Club – there is still a need for in-person donations of time. As Barb Truax puts it, “someone still has to volunteer to cover the phones while someone goes to collect the donations.” LA

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feature •

Health care, education, and downtown businesses How will massive growth affect these key areas of life in Kawartha Lakes? By Kirk Winter

The Advocate has been exploring the explosive growth expected in Kawartha Lakes over the next 10 years. With Lindsay’s population set to almost double within a decade, we explore how health care and education are being affected, city-wide, and shine a spotlight on Lindsay’s downtown.

Health care Almost every small city in Ontario has a well-respected publicly funded hospital that not only is one of the community’s major employers, but a lynch pin in attracting new people and new industry to the city.

Ryan Young, communications officer for RMH, said that planning is in the works to meet the needs of a much larger community. “Planning is well underway to expand RMH’s critical care capacity, to meet such needs,” Young said. “The hospital’s 20-year masterplan has been submitted to the Ontario Ministry of Health for approval to proceed to the next planning stage.” Young added that anticipated population growth helps inform the hospital’s master planning, along with their strategic planning and directions.

Lindsay is no different than those communities, with Ross Memorial Hospital (RMH) providing quality medical care to people right across the old Victoria County, and now Kawartha Lakes since 1902.

As part of the hospital’s strategic priorities, RMH has committed to collaborating and partnering with their Ontario Health Team and community partners to identify and address community needs.

RMH, unfortunately, is already finding its facility inadequate for the needs of the community, with wait times in the emergency room sometimes exceeding 12 hours. With a chronic shortage of family doctors in the city, the hospital and associated walk-in clinics have been overwhelmed providing the primary care that should be delivered by family doctors.

Young told the Advocate that local MPP Laurie Scott “has been a strong advocate for our hospital and the healthcare services our community relies upon.”

Doctor shortages The Kawartha Lakes Health Care Initiative (KLHCI), led by Cindy Snider and a group of volunteers, has the mandate of

recruiting more family doctors to Kawartha Lakes. As the city grows, there will be additional pressure on this group to find the family doctors to handle Lindsay’s growth over the next 10 years. Currently, the city is short 15-18 family doctors and about one-third of Kawartha Lakes is without a local family doctor. Snider said that doctor recruiting is still “very competitive.” “We are seeing an increase in family doctors reaching out directly regarding opportunities. It is also beneficial (post-pandemic) that we have been able to return to in-person recruitment.” When asked how many family doctors will need to be recruited in the coming years, Snider said each new family doctor looks to have a practice of approximately 1,000 patients. “It is not easy to exactly predict how many doctors will be needed…I expect, however, that the number will remain high as the population grows.” Snider believes that a larger, more diverse Lindsay might make doctor recruitment easier, which could possibly make it more difficult to recruit in more rural communities like Woodville, Bobcaygeon and Fenelon Falls.

Next to good internet connectivity, the most commonly asked question is about schools. Photo: Sienna Frost.

He says the board is doing a boundary review for Lindsay-area schools to balance school enrollment and capacity, and “minimize transportation and maximize walk zones.” “The board will be looking for opportunities for additions or new buildings in the area through the ministry capital priorities process.” To help the board determine whether the new homes being built in Lindsay will be occupied by retirees or families with children, the board has hired Watson and Associates Economists Ltd. to assist with updated projections to be taken into consideration during the boundary review process. Ellis added that a new school takes three to five years to build, and that the board is expected to use up available space within our current buildings before it is granted approval for any new construction projects.

From L to R: MP Jamie Schmale, MPP Laurie Scott, Dr Lesslie Ponraja and his mother Nancy Ponraja, and Alan Howard.

She recognizes that “the medical profession is very diverse” and if more retail, restaurant, and other services arrive in Lindsay, the community will “be recognized” as being more urban and less rural, attracting family doctors before Kawartha Lakes’ smaller population centres can fill their vacancies.

Public education Tim Ellis, superintendent of business services for the Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB), understands that big growth is coming to the city, and the board is trying to be proactive.

When asked if the board still has developable land on Logie Street, near Lindsay’s expected population explosion, Ellis confirmed that fact but reminded the Advocate that any development is subject to the ministry’s capital priorities process. Local real estate agents have gone public with their frustrations regarding nebulous school boundaries and the impact on closing deals in neighborhoods currently under construction. One veteran agent, who asked for anonymity because she does not officially speak for her bosses’ brokerage said, “The first thing people see when entering a new sub-division are those huge board placards saying that despite the homes being in the traditional catchment of one school, there is no guarantee that children moving to the sub-division will

lindsayadvocate.ca

Wesley Found wants the downtown to be “a destination.” Photo: Sienna Frost.

go there. Next to good internet connectivity, the most commonly asked question is which school will my kids be going to, and there is a very short list of in-town schools most want their children attending. The board is really missing the boat on this issue, dragging their feet like they are.” The same agent also said that if parents don’t get the schools of their choice, they are quite prepared to switch their children to French Immersion at Leslie Frost. That school is already groaning under the pressure of sky-rocketing enrollment and the ongoing challenge of finding qualified staff. The separate school system has surplus capacity at the moment and some parents will make the decision to send their kids there, according to the agent.

Lindsay Downtown Business Improvement Association Wesley Found is president of the Lindsay Downtown Business Improvement Association (LDBIA), which represents more than 160 businesses in Lindsay’s downtown core.

Found wants the downtown to be “a destination.” “Our valued members all have an offering,” Found said, “and collectively the downtown, above all else, offers an experience. The combination of heritage, diverse shops and beautiful setting gives a quaintness that cannot be replicated. This is something I think many newcomers are moving to our community for and which our downtown is uniquely positioned to provide.” Found told the Advocate that as the town expands, current estimates by the city regarding necessary parking capacity in the downtown core “need to be hastened significantly.” When asked if the LDBIA is concerned about the potential for significant commercial development in outlying areas of Lindsay, such as that proposed by Flato Developments on Highway 36, Found said the LDBIA “believes malls and other shopping districts are complimentary to the Lindsay downtown and are not in the same market.”

Found believes the mandate of the LDBIA “is to foster a vibrant, vital and resilient downtown.”

Found said that malls lack “the quaint experience component where people can walk the beautiful historic streets” offered by Lindsay’s downtown.

“The LDBIA has a vision but our role must be to advocate, brand and promote the downtown. If downtown Lindsay is viewed collectively as an industry or industry area, we have no doubt that we would be one of the largest employers and biggest contributors to income generated in the city.”

“I think many of Lindsay’s new residents are moving away from urban centres in part to separate (themselves) from a more transactional community to a more immersive one. Downtown Lindsay embodies that and is uniquely positioned to provide (that immersive experience).” LA

2024 Municipal Calendar Coming Soon! The 2024 Municipal Calendar will be delivered to all Kawartha Lakes residents through the mail via Canada Post by mid-December. Pick up a copy of the calendar at one of our 70 locations across the municipality. For a list of locations visit:

www.kawarthalakes.ca/calendar

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Find health and wellbeing services in KAWARTHA LAKES AND HALIBURTON COUNTY Get connected to the right health support Our new navigation platform allows you to easily search for local health and wellbeing programs in Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County. You can get connected to the right health supports, and many of the programs and services listed feature a direct self-referral option.

www.klhoht.ca/find-services Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our KLH-OHT Navigator can help connect you to the right programs and services.

705-934-1439 navigation@klhoht.ca

Christmas with Kawartha Lakes city councillors While city business is important for our community, sometimes it’s just nice at this time of year to remember the important things in life that unite us – like holiday baked goods. Here then, is the Advocate’s not-so-serious poll of Kawartha Lakes councillors. Favourite holiday tradition?

Strangest gift ever received?

Favourite holiday baking treat?

What’s your superpower during the holidays?

Mayor Doug Elmslie

Mike Perry – Ward 3

Ron Ashmore – Ward 6

Santa Day in Fenelon Falls with the grand kids.

My long-lost sister coming to visit from Spain, then jumping in the car to get a tree from our family’s land in Kinmount.

My favourite Christmas tradition is food related. We enjoy a New Zealand Christmas dessert called Pavlova. My wife, Catherine, is from New Zealand and this is a custom there that she passed on to me and our family.

One mitten. My sister was learning to knit and didn't get the second one finished. I don't remember if I ever got it. Plum pudding with a white sauce. Making family wishes come true.

Cologne from my aunt one year called “Buckeroo.” I was 13. In my aunt’s defence: it was the 80s. My late mother’s Christmas cake pudding for dessert on Christmas Day. Not needing sleep.

Emmett Yeo – Ward 1 Christmas Eve starts with last minute shopping, cooking a big turkey, wrapping gifts with the never-ending roll of paper I bought many years ago, then candlelight service at Pioneer Baptist Church. A miniature marble statue of David from my sister-in-law Dana. Hash brown casserole is a fan favourite at our house and is always better when made the day before. Not really a baking treat, but yummy. I am a Hot Wheels racetrack assembler extraordinaire. I’m looking forward to reviving this life skill for my new grandson, Bennett.

Pat Warren – Ward 2 Every Christmas Eve must include the viewing of It’s a Wonderful Life and the original A Christmas Carol, in black and white. I once received in my stocking a small plastic chicken that laid an egg when you pushed down on it. My favourite Christmas sweet is plum pudding with hard sauce. Yum. Preventing my kitties from destroying the Christmas Tree.

Dan Joyce – Ward 4 One year we watched Christmas Vacation with Chevy Chase when my daughter was old enough. She is 28 now and we still get together to watch this silly movie each year and laugh at all the same parts. A toss-up between the lump of coal, or the homemade stocking of grey duct tape and a coat hanger, both from the same brother.

Years ago one of our Holstein cows delivered healthy triplet calves. Mince meat tarts. Looking after family and constituents at the same time. Last year during the Christmas snowstorm I was out with my son getting people out of the snow and making sure they were safe.

Charlie McDonald – Ward 7 All my brothers in the basement cutting the turkey, and then we all had to sample it to make sure it was okay.

My mother’s Christmas cookies – hands down, the best anywhere.

Hand me down clothes from my brothers.

Sleep–it’s the only time of year I get any.

Our neighbour, Grammy Smith, always bringing over a warm homemade bread for supper that she put in between our front doors.

Eric Smeaton – Ward 5 Each year we participate in the Living Christmas Pageant at Cambridge Street United Church. I play percussion/timpani, and Sue and Harrison are shepherds (with real life sheep).

Watching my family open gifts that made them very emotional, even sometimes happy crying.

ABBA Gold. “Why did you do that, Mommy? Why!?”

Tracy Richardson – Ward 8

When I was a little boy I couldn’t wait for my best friend Jody’s mom – Mrs. Lundy – to make her Christmas almond bark. The amazing power of football endurance. I am somehow able to watch up to four college games in a day!

Singing Christmas Carols at Pontypool Church on Christmas Eve. Bart Simpson Flannel onesie pyjamas. Christmas Shortbread. Yum! Power present wrapping. 37

community •

Proposed Fenelon Falls housing and commercial development attracts huge crowd By Geoff Coleman and Roderick Benns

Abu Masood was driving around Fenelon Falls earlier this year, a stranger from Markham who was exploring what seemed like an idyllic village. As he made his way down one particular street, a man was cutting his grass saw him and waved – not an uncommon action in a small community. But the incident stayed with Abu, for it reminded him of his own small-village roots in Pakistan, growing up in a place where it felt like there was a common good.

Building would take place on land lying roughly south of the Ultramar gas station on Kawartha Lakes Road 121, east of Deane St, Kennedy Drive, and Clifton St, and west of Sturgeon Point Road, terminating near Kawartha Lakes Road 22 to the south. Interruptions by a handful of organized attendees made a large group question and answer session impossible, but the principals stayed after a recess and were available for discussions with individuals who remained from the large crowd. The meeting was organized in response to “misinformation” in the community, organizers said, and was not required as part of the application process. The group has submitted applications to amend the official plan, for a draft plan of subdivision, and for a zoning bylaw amendment. Further public meetings will be held if the project advances past the initial application.

BIA’s holiday passport program offers many chances to win The Lindsay Downtown Business Improvement Association is creating even more reasons to visit the downtown between now and the holidays. The local BIA’s annual holiday passport is back for a chance to win something for yourself when you’re out there buying for others. There will be five draws for a total of $4,000 in gift certificates, valid at more than 100 downtown Lindsay shops and restaurants. To learn more visit lindsaydowntown.ca. For Masood, the CEO of Digram Developments, it now means convincing Fenelon Falls residents that he wants to improve the village that captured his imagination – not change its essential character. He finds it incredible that so few builds have happened in Fenelon, given the desperate need for housing in the area. A capacity crowd of 400 people filled the Fenelon Falls Community Centre for an information meeting in mid-November to hear his plans. They wanted to learn more about the build he has in mind, known as the Fenelon Trails housing development. Presentations from a representative of TOR Construction, and planners GHD gave details about the potential development which consists of 894 dwelling units comprised of 427 single detached homes, 242 townhouses, one mixed-use block and three medium-density residential blocks. 38

The King George V Masonic Lodge (No. 498 from Coboconk) donated a cheque of $6,500 to the Coboconk Food Bank recently. This is the second installment provided to the food bank, after a $1,500 donation of food cards from the Masons earlier this year. Photo: Geoff Coleman.

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Fall into Winter Sale

Pay full price for your prescription glasses and receive your 2nd pair at half price - See store for details.

We invite you to visit Downtown Lindsay during the Holiday Season where you can find unique & fabulous gifts for everyone and fill out a Holiday Passport for a chance to win a gift for yourself!

2023

There will be 5 draws for a total of $4000 in gift certificates valid at more than 100 Downtown Lindsay shops and restaurants.

November 17 thru December 21

Happy Holidays!

At Participating Shops + Organizations Downtown Lindsay Presented by the Lindsay Downtown Business Improvement Association

lindsayadvocate.ca

GRAVITY PLUMBING & HEATING By Amanda Tayles

I.E. Weldon cross country bronze finish at Ontario finals I.E. Weldon Secondary School junior girls (Grade 10) cross country team placed third in the provincial finals at the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) in early November. An incredible success for the amazing group of six girls – Mary Dafoe, Michelle De Vos, Kyla Farr, Ellianne McLaren, Addison Smith, and Lucy Stephenson. The first team medal in cross country and only the second ever team medal for Weldon. Cross country teams work by drawing a cumulative score from the individual teammate races, with the lowest score ranking highest. In regional finals this year, Central Ontario Secondary Schools Association (COSSA), the team placed first with a score of 18; comparatively the lowest possible score is 10. At OFSSA, where 259 runners competed, the team scored 253 with an average pace of 3:51/km for the 5 km distance. Coach Rhonda Dobson attributes the group’s success to their high levels of dedication. “To have a group be that committed has really affected their results.” The team’s highest placed runner at OFSAA (13th overall), Kyla Farr, echoes her coach’s sentiments. She finds the team atmosphere to be intrinsically motivating due to its sheer enjoyment. “If I didn’t have a team, it wouldn’t be as fun.” Looking ahead to senior level (Grades 11-12), Farr is up for the challenge as “new people will come on the team and it will be exciting to run against older girls.”

prizes than any other club in its first 30 years. Many of these antique trophies remain proudly on display. Like all sports, it requires practice and commitment of its athletes, but it also has the complexity of the ice it’s played on. Curling Canada and the Ontario Curling Council have an established pathway to train technicians on the proper development and maintenance of the ice surface. This ensures the ice maintains the “pebble” that prevents the rocks from flying down the sheets. To achieve the desired friction, water droplets are sprayed across the ice which then freeze to the surface forming small bumps. The temperature of the water, the size of the droplet, and the manner in which they are sprayed all play into how fast or slow a rock curls. Lindsay has two technicians in place to curate their ice to the desired levels. Today, the club is at 350 members, weathering the storm of the pandemic when indoor athletics saw participation plummet. It’s looking to continue to spread the love of the sport to the young and old with welcoming activities for all

Curling: A sport for all ages with a rich local history While the town of Lindsay was established in 1857, it was less than 20 years later that the Lindsay Curling Club was formalized, after years of gathering for friendly outdoor matches on the Scugog River. The first rink was established on Russell Street before moving to its current home on Peel Street in 1893, where an expansion from four to six sheets of ice reflected the growth of the sport in the area. It was not only popular but incredibly successful, racking up more 40

Junior girls (Grade 10) cross country team placed third in the provincial finals at OFSAA.

ages and skill levels. The club introduces kids as young as six, with shortened ends and a fun, casual approach. For the more seasoned or newcomer who may have reduced mobility, a delivery stick supports throwing the rocks, increasing the longevity of participation and the sport overall. The club’s age range is a testament to this, as the youngest member is six while the oldest is 94. The season runs for 21 weeks, from mid-October to the end of March, with teams and events such as bonspiels (tournament) catering to all levels of play and abilities. There are teams from local schools including Fleming College, as well as Special Olympics programming. The club fosters a social, competitive and lifelong learning opportunity for the community. Club president Dave Nigh, a curler for close to 55 years, has seen curling be a generational pastime, where the love of the game is passed down through the family tree. For member Shannon Joyce that was very much the case. “I started curling when I was 12; coming to the club with my mom. My younger sister started even before then.” Now Shannon is hoping her daughter also joins in the sport in the next couple years.

LINDSAY MUSKIES JR. A HOME GAMES AT THE LINDSAY REC COMPLEX

FRIDAY, DEC. 1 @ 7 PM VS. AURORA FRIDAY, DEC. 8 @ 7 PM VS. TORONTO FRIDAY, DEC. 15 @ 7 PM VS. TRENTON

Though curling didn’t become part of the Winter Olympics until 1998, its next showing will be in 2026 in Italy – leaving locals plenty of time to give it a go before cheering on Team Canada.

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Gravity Plumbing and Heating congratulates The Lindsay Muskies U13 Rep team which brought home the gold from a recent tournament in Ottawa. They played 6 games undefeated against teams from Ontario and Quebec. 41

Roses & Thorns Things we liked — and didn't like — in 2023. •

•

Kawartha Lakes Environmental Advisory Committee for two initiatives. The completion of a pollinator garden on Broad Street recognized by Pollinator Partnership of Canada. And the Bird-Friendly City initiative, which won Nature Canada’s Conservation Partner of the Year Award. Both initiatives help further the goals of the city’s Healthy Environment Plan. Volunteers. Their contributions to making Kawartha Lakes a better place to live are often taken for granted. Local churches, food banks, and amateur sports organizations rely on the goodwill of thousands of local residents who find the time during their busy weeks to contribute their time and skills. Without these contributions, many of these activities would not operate and Kawartha Lakes would be a poorer place for it.

•

The reopening at long last of the swing bridge in Bobcaygeon, and the patience of merchants and residents during its long closure.

•

Long-term care staff working to keep vulnerable residents safe in the midst of resurgent COVID-19, plus seasonal outbreaks of flu, RSV and more.

•

The Lindsay & District Chamber of Commerce's new bikeshare program. Anything that encourages active transportation in the community is cause for rejoicing.

•

The return of I.E. Weldon Secondary School's beloved Antics variety show at the Academy Theatre – the first such performance since 2019.

•

Our council. After a year in office, they are proving themselves to be interested in weighing credible evidence before making decisions, getting out into the community, being open to a range of opinion and conducting themselves with civility. The leadership of Mayor Doug Elmslie has set a professional tone.

•

Truth and Reconciliation Bobcaygeon for its compassionate, ambitious plans to create a mishkodeh (landbased learning centre) as a practical gesture of much-needed reconciliation.

•

Snow plow drivers. With winter looming, it is time we recognize the hugely important job that these men and women have. In a city where most drive daily, roads free of snow are absolutely essential so folks can get to work and kids can get to school. Plow drivers are working while we sleep, often experiencing some of the worst weather Mother Nature can conjure up. We might curse the plow drivers when they inevitably fill in our freshly shovelled driveways, but without them, winter driving in Kawartha Lakes would be all but impossible.

•

Kawartha Lakes Curatorial Services' efforts to celebrate and raise awareness of our culinary heritage through its new recipe revival initiative.

•

Maryboro Lodge's beautiful grounds and the seemingly endless variety of programming and activities that take place there over the summer months.

•

The loud and vociferous opposition to efforts to protect the historic Old Mill-Pumpkin Hollow neighbourhood (the birthplace of downtown Lindsay) through designation as a Heritage Conservation District. Much of the opposition was based on refutable myths and misunderstandings of how the designation process actually works – and yet council still yielded to public hostility.

•

Metroland Media's decision to cease production of Kawartha Lakes This Week in print. The loss of local news is always lamentable.

• The efforts of Hydro One personnel, emergency services, and neighbours who helped neighbours in the aftermath of the August hailstorm. • The city’s communications department. As our link to the city and its employees, the work done by the communications department to answer media inquiries is first rate. They are unfailingly polite and attentive to the needs of this media outlet, and much of what you see printed in the Advocate regarding municipal government would not be possible without their assistance. • The entrepreneurs turning Lindsay into a destination for home décor.

•

Residents who threaten, harass and shout down councillors to the point that some are required to seek protection. Disagreement is part of the democratic process; intimidation must not be, especially if we want capable people to seek office in future.

•

The still-languishing vacant lot in downtown Lindsay. It gets livened up during things like October's Harvest Moon event but is still not serving the public or the streetscape.

•

Critics of council who propose no viable solutions.

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streeter • The Advocate’s photographer, Sienna Frost, asked people

“aside from family, what are you grateful for this year?”

For my community and the opportunity for my entrepreneurial adventures. — Ryan Currins, Little Britain

I am grateful for this community, my customers and my friends. We have been here since 2006 and we are not ever planning on leaving, no looking back. — Jot Chema, Lindsay

I spent the last six years trying to figure myself out, and I realized that being here, in the woods I grew up in with the community of people I was raised by is exactly where I need to be. I’m thankful to be home.

For our abundance of natural resources. I’m grateful to be able to pass down the tradition of harvesting conservatively from our environment and the ability to provide nutritious food for my family.

— Cassidy Ford, Kirkfield

— Coady Melvin, Lindsay

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“Tis the season to be readin” – reading a cozy Christmas novel that is! We think that The Christmas Table by Donna VanLiere will do the trick. Newlywed Lauren buys a used table only to discover a secret drawer filled with recipe cards. Lauren is determined to find the original owner, while also discovering the joy of cooking for the first time. As a bonus, recipes are included!

Not the library from your childhood (but we still love doing storytime)

DISCOVER EXPLORE BE ENTERTAINED Millions of opportunities. One exceptional library.

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This book was selected from the Kawartha Lakes Public Library’s NextReads Newsletters. Register to receive monthly or bi-monthly e-newsletters with enticing book suggestions. kawarthalakeslibrary.ca/nextbook

community •

Shoebox Project needs your support Local resident Kerri Murphy is seeking support in her efforts to reduce the feelings of isolation faced by women impacted by homelessness and poverty this holiday season. Murphy is the volunteer local coordinator for the Kawartha Lakes chapter of The Shoebox Project for Women, a national charitable organization which collects and distributes giftfilled shoeboxes to local women impacted by homelessness. The drive extends from Nov. 15 through Dec. 15. Drop-off locations for shoeboxes continue to include, Cathy Allan Ladieswear, Lindsay; Paradiso Boutique, Bobcaygeon; and Lock 34 Yoga, Fenelon Falls. Shoeboxes are valued at $50 and contents must fit within a standard-sized shoebox. Just Google shoeboxproject Kawartha Lakes to learn more.

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45 Russell Street W. Lindsay, Ontario (705) 324-4666 st-pauls-lindsay.ca

“Hope: Past, Present, and Future” December 3 10:30 a.m. Advent 1: Hope – Communion December 10 10:30 a.m. Advent 2: Peace December 17 10:30 a.m. Advent 3: Joy December 17 7:00 p.m. Christmas Cantata: “The Call of Christmas” (Free will offering; Reception to follow) December 24 10:30 a.m. Advent 4: Love December 24 7:00 p.m. Service of Lessons and Carols

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bution centre that supplies groceries to food banks and other local organizations. Food Source also receives excess food from Giant Tiger. Heather Kirby, executive director, says when food donations are within the best before date, with intact packaging, they work well. If not, the burden and cost of disposal is just offloaded to organizations like hers.

Waste is such a waste I admit it. I’ve disposed of my share of mould-growing science projects pulled from the back of the fridge. I’ve over-purchased food on sale that ends up aging on the shelf well past its best-before date. And by the sounds of it, I’m not alone. In Canada almost 60 per cent of the food we produce doesn’t make it from farm or factory to our forks. Canadian food redistribution network Second Harvest released a ground-breaking report in 2019 that shows Canadians toss more than $10 billion worth of food each year. That’s an average cost of $1,766 per household. Ouch. If you include waste from institutions, retailers and restaurants, the bill is closer to $50 billion. The environmental costs are also enormous. A lot of that uneaten food goes to landfills where it breaks down and releases methane, a much more potent global heating gas than carbon dioxide. Worldwide, food waste accounts for up to 10 per cent of our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, according to the U.N.’s Environment Program. The good news is that reducing food waste is one of the top 10 actions we can take to curb global heating, analysis by Project Drawdown shows. Businesses and governments have put the problem on their radar in recent years. •

•

In June, Kawartha Lakes council approved curbside compost collection, to be rolled out first in Lindsay, Bobcaygeon, Fenelon Falls and Omemee in 2025. With luck it will expand to the rest of the city, extending the life of landfills while reducing emissions. Locally, food and organic waste make up about 30 per cent of our garbage.

•

The federal government’s Our Food Future program helps communities increase food access while reducing waste. Partly through that program, Guelph and Wellington County last year received international recognition for a pilot project that addresses food waste from businesses and institutions. The program reduced collection costs, redirected edible food from landfills and reduced GHG emissions. We can all pitch in by pitching out less and saving money in the process. How? •

Plan meals for the week.

•

Create a grocery list for those meals after first taking stock of what’s already on hand.

•

Buy only what you need.

•

Use leftovers first, and look at freezing what you can’t use up.

•

If you must toss fruits and veggies, compost them. To discourage pests, the David Suzuki Foundation recommends not composting oils, meats and breads.

lindsayadvocate.ca

Loblaws and its affiliates have teamed up with the app Flashfood to help customers easily find and order discounted food for pickup at participating grocers. Loblaws in Lindsay is on that list. The parent company of Sobeys, IGA, Foodland and FreshCo has partnered with Second Harvest to redistribute perfectly good food that is less likely to sell. Some of the food collected through the Second Harvest platform makes its way to Kawartha Lakes Food Source, a distri-

quaint and rustic. The sight of smoke curling out of a log cabin’s chimney in a snowy clearing brings to mind memories of Christmases past, of cozier, simpler times spent by the hearth. Yet log houses also reflected the challenges faced by those who toiled to build them. Foremost among these were the dangerous conditions and construction techniques involved in putting them up. Trees had to be felled, logs squared, cut to appropriate lengths, and moved into position. Notches were cut into logs, which in turn were arranged on top of one another – all by hand. Injury or even death could result from a wayward log or from a tool that was used carelessly.

The log homes of Kawartha Lakes

Nevertheless, building a log house also built up a spirit of community. “It was in the year 1843 that the late Charles McPhadden came to Mariposa and took up about 200 acres of land about two miles south of Manilla,” noted a story in the July 13, 1925 edition of the Lindsay Daily Post. “The neighbours who came to help put up the log buildings came over the rough roads or in lumber wagons, or walked along the trails through the woods.” Many months could pass before a log house was completed, so the assistance of extended family, friends, and neighbours hastened a lengthy, laborious process. Despite the blood, sweat, and tears that went into construction, those who lived in log houses often retained fond memories of their experiences. The late Ester Campbell spoke warmly of her family’s Cameron-area log house

Nearly 150 years have passed since my great-great grandparents, Lauchlin and Isabel McQuarrie, put the finishing touches on their log house north of Argyle. Newly married, they were undoubtedly supported in the project by Lauchlin’s parents, James and Catherine, who – like other Scottish settlers in Eldon Township – had constructed a smaller log house of their own some two decades before. The McQuarries’ new storey-and-a-half log house sported a main room that measured about 600 square feet and incorporated a kitchen, dining room, and sitting area. A pair of bedrooms measuring a little more than 200 square feet rounded out the first floor; two more rooms were located upstairs. “Heating was (done) by a big cook stove in the kitchen,” recalled the late Kenneth McQuarrie, one of my grandfather’s cousins. “They later built a summer kitchen on the back of the house, but it was only used in the warmer weather,” Kenneth observed in his recollections. As of 1894, Lauchlin and Isabel McQuarrie’s house was home to a family of 10 – including eight children ranging in age from infancy to 19 years old. It may well have been overcrowded, yet according to Kenneth there was always plenty of room. By 1918, the family had moved into a comfortable red brick house, and in 1937 the venerable old log house was removed to another part of Victoria County. Log homes such as those built by my great-great grandparents are often portrayed in art, film, and folklore as being 50

Jack MacQuarrie poses in front of his grandparents' log house, ca. 1918

Isabel McQuarrie relaxes in front of her family's log house, Argyle, ca. 1917. All photos courtesy of the McQuarrie family.

in a 1963 letter to the editor of the Watchman Warder: even after her family had moved away and the place stood vacant, Campbell recalled that “...we had to go and see ‘the old house’ – it never lost its charm for those who loved it!” While most log houses were variations on the same basic plan, a few stood out for their size and grandeur. The most notable example in Kawartha Lakes is surely that built around 1838 for James Dunsford and his family on the north shore of Sturgeon Lake. This two-storey log manor house, known as “The Beehive,” boasted some 12 rooms (including an entrance hall) as well as four fireplaces, and is today the centrepiece of Eganridge Resort, Golf Club & Spa. Though the art of building log homes never completely died away, those we associate with 19th century European settlement eventually gave way to larger, more permanent structures built of brick, frame, or stone. The log house of yore became an historical curiosity. Indeed, by the 1960s, surviving log houses had become sought-after commodities – either for display at fledgling

community museums, or to incorporate into educational programming at other venues. In 1967, a 150-year-old log house built by William Tough on Lot 24, Concession 7 in Eldon Township was dismantled and moved to the Greenland Road Public School in North York for use in teaching Canadian history classes. Closer to home, the Victoria County Historical Society spent over a decade in search of a suitable log house for their museum (which was then located west of Lindsay), and in 1976 acquired the Muir house, which had been built 108 years earlier in Digby Township. This building was subsequently relocated to Bobcaygeon’s Kawartha Settlers' Village in 2002. It’s hard to say for sure just how many log houses survive in this municipality. Nearly 20 examples were documented by the Lindsay Public Library in 1977, and half a dozen can be explored at Kawartha Settlers' Village. Still others are concealed beneath a veneer of aluminum or vinyl siding; large, low windows, low-to-medium roof pitches, and the absence of windows in gables offer subtle hints of log construction – and of the cozy memories these beautiful old buildings hold for so many.

lindsayadvocate.ca

Handbags for Health 2024 SAVE THE DATE! January 26, 2024 6:00p.m-11:00p.m.

Lindsay Armouries: 210 Kent St. W. Lindsay

Why support Handbags for Health? Though Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes does receive some outside funding, the reality is that many of our programs need to be funded or require additional funds. Our Handbags for Health will help raise much-needed funds to support our extensive programs this year.

Interested in purchasing tickets?

foundation@ccckl.ca 705-324-7323 x164

420 Eldon Road, Little Britain (705) 748-3848 4075 County Road 121, Kinmount (705) 488-9963 401 Kent Street West, Lindsay (705) 324-1978

TAKE A STEP BACK INTO THE 50'S!

Musical Countdown Across

1 Possess, in Paisley

4 Lead-in to a nickname

7 Millionaire role for Adam Sandler

14 Subtle method of learning 16 Slip-on shoes

17 Beatles song title with a number

by Barbara Olson © ClassiCanadian Crosswords 1

21 Stevie Nicks song title containing a number

29 "Riddle-me-___" (kid's rhyme)

32 Lay on the charm

35 "...___ a puddy tat!"

36 Styx song title containing a number

35 38

45 50

53 55

32 36

30 Spray-on cooking oil brand 31 "That's ___me" ("Really?")

19 ___ de Triomphe

20 Marlon's "Godfather" role

54 59

40 NAFTA, for one

41 Car lifts, in a garage

7 1064, in Roman numerals

37 Bakery's "Happy Birthday" writer, maybe

9 The get-go

39 "___ crying shame"

11 Hirer's "we don't discriminate" abbr.

43 Dennis the ___, (comic strip)

13 Uzbekistan or Ukraine, once: Abbr.

47 Gaston's good-byes

42 Cooks veggies in vapour

6 Donkey kin

46 "Do ___ Diddy Diddy" (1964 song)

8 Making a big stink, maybe?

38 Those: Sp.

49 Commodores song title containging a number

10 It's no mark of genius

40 Till key not used in Alta.

54 "... and took from thence ___" : "Paradise Lost"

12 Joanne of '50s filmdom

45 Fa followers, in a carol

53 Diddly-squat

55 Blondie song titlle containing a number 62 Will supplement

63 "Why, certainly!", to the French 64 Gives a licking?

65 24 Sussex Dr. residents

66 It may be taken before a trip? Down

1 Hilarious blunder 2 Just slightly

3 Come to the surface 4 "Just ___ suspected"

5 Prime Minister between Brian and Jean

15 First word of a fairy tale, often 18 "___ got a funny feeling ..." 22 Tanker grp.

23 Lose oomph

24 Make a mash of, in slang

44 Be reclusive, in a way

46 Soup can painter Andy 48 Gas-electric auto

50 Fans' adored stars 51 Put a dent in, say

52 Back muscles, in gym lingo

55 Cleanaholic's condition, briefly

25 Bird's building materials

56 "I've told you ___ thousand times!"

27 State of "la France"

58 Reddi ___ (dessert topping)

26 Bible book before Job: Abbr. 28 When to call, in infomercials 32 Plant "hair" 33 Dove's cry

34 Send a return with a click 36 Well-worn trail

• Crossword solution on page 54 •

57 Oilers' city: Abbr. 59 Rock blaster?

60 '60s war zone, for short 61 Québec ending

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Tickets: $10 per ticket or 3 for $20 Only 4,500 Tickets Printed! Purchase in Lindsay at:

Women’s Resources, 22 Russell St. E.•Vicky’s Values, 50 Mary St. W. For other locations to purchase tickets, please contact Women’s Resources as below: Questions? Contact Carolyn Fox 705-324-7649 ext. 223 or cfox@womensresources.ca 705-878-4285 :: 22 Russell St. E., Lindsay, ON K9V 2A1 :: www.womensresources.ca Shelter, Support & Referral for Abused Women and their Children

lindsayadvocate.ca

MIKE GALLAGHER Business Manager

JOE REDSHAW President

A LONG AND PROUD HISTORY OF ENSURING THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF ITS MEMBERS, PROVIDING SKILLS TRAINING, AND NEGOTIATING INDUSTRY-LEADING WAGES, PENSIONS AND BENEFITS International Union of Operating Engineers Local 793 2245 Speers Road, Oakville, Ontario, Canada L6L 6X8 Phone: 1-877-793-4863 | Website: www.iuoelocal793.org

the MARKETPLACE Local Services & Offerings

Merchandise Caesar Stone Center Island 75” by 42” Counter top only, includes double granite sink and faucet. $500. elkedan@me.com for pictures. Droptine Maples Ontario maple syrup. Available for bulk sale or by the bottle/case. 1L, 500ml, 250ml. Call 705-879-1144 We Buy Vintage... Vinyl Records, Comics, Costume Jewelry, Glass, China, Pottery, Toys, Sports & All Types of Collectibles. We Make House Calls Cash Paid. Robert & Penny 705-324-2699 www.howlingdog.rocks

Going, going, gone: There are only a few copies left of the first edition hardcover adult colouring book Puppies and Balloons (A Story for Seona). Written by Trevor Hutchinson, illustrated by Courtney Robertson. Available for purchase at Kent Books, 15 William St. N., Lindsay.

Oak coffee table for sale. Excellent condition. Measurements are 46 inches long by 24 inches wide. Call 705-324-8683 anytime between 9 am and 9 pm. $40

SERVICES Burns' Snow Removal & Lawn Care Ltd. Lanes, lots, sidewalks, sanding & salting. Commercial & residential. Fully insured. Call David E. Burns 705-324-8154 McKenzie’s offers all aspects of outdoor maintenance. -interlock -lift and re level -fencing -gutter cleaning -lawncare -snow removal Call 705-934-4333 Free estimates. Barr Construction Ltd. Conventional & ICF basements. Residential, commercial, agricultural additions and floors. Call for a free quote. 705-879-1144

Camryn’s Painting Free Quotes. References available. Call 705-887-8868

In Memoriam

JustH2O. Delivering clean water to Kawartha Lakes & area. Ice rinks, wells, cisterns, hot tubs, pools etc. Call 705-878-5044.

Losing Heat through your Windows? Cracked or steaming up? May only need your glass replaced. Call Harold 705-887-6608

Professional Painter Also providing home repairs. Great rates. Call Don 705-878-6051. Ron’s Scrap Car Removal Cash paid!! Free pick-up Call/text 705-328-4543 rrl62cars@yahoo.ca

WANTED WANTED CLASSIC & VINTAGE Cars & Trucks Please call Mark 613-360-2699

List your ad in Kawartha Lakes' only news media in print! Rates from as low as $25.

Contact Rebekah at rebekah@lindsayadvocate.ca or 705-328-5188

Carol Christine Cook 1952-2022 As Carol’s first Angelversary has arrived on the 21st of November, I wanted her dear friends to know that though she is gone she will never be forgotten by those who filled her life with joy and purpose. Please join me, her beloved husband and life partner, Darren Maine, in celebrating her life as you can with me at this time. God bless all of you who cared for our dear Carol.

In Memoriam and Obituaries.

Contact Rebekah to honour your loved one.

rebekah@lindsayadvocate.ca

705-328-5188

trevor's take •

A modest Christmas proposal

Make Your Dream Home a Reality!

By Trevor Hutchinson Contributing Editor

Opinion is probably split on whether people want their city council commenting on issues that might go beyond their normal course of duties. I, for one, like the idea of a council weighing in on issues that go beyond our municipal borders provided that this doesn’t affect the time spent on more immediate and local concerns. In 2019 for example, Councillor Ron Ashmore proposed a motion whereby the city should publicly endorse oil pipelines. (I argued vigorously on the Advocate news site at the time that council should reject the motion – which they did). Despite my difference of opinion, I still think this is the exact type of good-faith argument we want councillors to bring to the table when they have a cause that they feel is important to them and their constituents, as Ashmore did.

The idea of a special constabulary empowered to grievously deal with anyone who plays Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas is You is intoxicating to me. And I would like to humbly propose that council consider another declaratory bylaw. Now I don’t get paid enough to come up with exact council legalese, but I’m thinking something along the lines of this: To protect and promote the solemnity of Remembrance Day, the city will not display Christmas decorations or music on its properties, buildings or events until 58

Nov 12. Furthermore, the city encourages residents and businesses, where possible, to observe the same schedule. I am not suggesting that this be obligatory nor do I think there should be any enforcement measures associated with this. The idea of the government telling a business when and how they can decorate a window seems totalitarian (not counting the absurd restrictions on cannabis stores, of course). And the idea of a bylaw officer prowling the streets looking out for too-early Christmas carols is beyond absurd. I won’t lie though. The idea of a special constabulary empowered to grievously deal with anyone who plays Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas is You is intoxicating to me. It’s just not constitutional. Some of us want to try to promote the reverence of Remembrance Day. Doing so still leaves a (painful to me) full 43 days of pre-Christmas extravaganza. It’s basically what most businesses already do, and it is more or less the city’s standard operating procedure because Christmas street decorations can’t go up until the Remembrance Day banners come down. Of course, some businesses will say they need more time for one of their biggest retail periods. And some citizens (who I will never understand if I live 10 lifetimes) want to celebrate Christmas all year long. And that’s okay. This is just about publicly proclaiming a widely-held sentiment. From my family to yours, I wish a Merry Christmas to all those who celebrate it and a joyous holiday season for all!

2912 Hwy 35 S, Lindsay

705-320-9888

Beaver Homes & Cottages Custom Kitchens & Bathrooms Design Consultations Home Installs Part of the Kawartha Home Hardware Group of Stores! kawarthahomehardware.ca

All-Stars Realty Inc., Brokerage

Each office is independently owned and operated.

Celebrating 15 years of successfully representing Sellers and Buyers in the City of Kawartha Lakes! Call me for a free, no obligation home evaluation or to ask about the current inventory.

Harold Hull Realtor 705-879-1307

“Call Anytime... I’m Full-Time” haroldhull@remax.net 22 Lindsay St. North Lindsay, ON K9V 1T5

HaroldHull.com

FLATO wishes the Kawartha Lakes community a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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