The Holiday 2022 Issue Of Modern Mississauga Media's Interactive Digital Magazine

the north beckons.

OWNER/PUBLISHER/EDITOR

Jay Kana

ART DIRECTOR Elizabeth Wise (Wise Idea)

CONTRIBUTORS Corrie Harding-Keizs Natalie Hart Anna Hobbs Jay Kana John Murray Lewis Steph Wallcraft Ryan Tobin

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Cover Photo: Michelle on Unsplash Table of Contents Photo: Aaron Burden on Unsplash © 2022 Modern Mississauga Media Ltd. All rights reserved.

Welcome to your Holiday issue of Modern Mississauga!

Editor' s Letter

We won’t keep you too long here as there’s, as usual, plenty of excellent reading material throughout the Holiday issue.

From Gift Guides to making 2023 a stellar year, outdoor adventures, food and drink options, plus so much in between, we’re excited to share this with you.

It’s been another interesting year as we’ve continued navigating through Covid and while we’re heading in the right direction, we’re not quite at our destination yet.

Here at Modern Mississauga Media, it’s been a terrific year filled with growth, strengthened and new connections, a stronger presence in the community and we’re looking to make 2023 our very best yet!

Thank you our advertising partners, writers, readers, supporters, and yes, even those who doubt and diminish us; without you, we wouldn’t continue to be Mississauga’s premiere media company.

From our family to yours, we warmly wish you only the best this Holiday season and we’re excited to move forward into the new year together.

Festively,

JAY & LIZ

You are invited to discover all that VAM has to offer; from workshops to courses, membership perks to exhibitions and more.

10 of our Artist Instructors will showcase their talents and teaching style through free, art demonstrations for the community to enjoy. This is your chance to find out more about their courses, ask questions and be inspired to inject art into your 2023!

LEARN ABOUT

The Mississauga Symphony Orchestra’s 2022/2023 SEASON

The MSO began the season on October 15 with a celebration of two of the greatest composers in the history of classical music Beethoven and Brahms. Beethoven’s spirited seventh symphony anchors an exciting program that will also feature a performance of Brahms’ magnificent violin concerto by MSO concertmaster, Corey Gemmell.

On November 19, the Mississauga Symphony will celebrate 10 wonderful years under the baton of Maestro Denis Mastromonaco! Enjoy The Music of Italy and Argentina, a specially curated concert that celebrates the Maestro’s Argentine/ Italian heritage. In addition to a wonderful celebration of music, join us in the atrium of the Living Arts Centre before the concert for a silent auction featuring a selection of impressive items from local businesses, jewellers, and more!

On December 17, our wildly popular, family-oriented Christmas concert returns

to Hammerson Hall to ignite the holiday spirit in everyone. This year the orchestra offers two versions of A Merry Little Christmas a one hour matinee for young children, and a full evening concert for all-ages.

On February 11, a stunning cast of singers join the MSO to perform highlights from Rossini’s beloved comedic opera, The Barber of Seville. This special opera-in-concert is not to be missed.

On April 1, the MSO presents The Music of Easter. Enjoy stirring music by Bach, Haydn, Stravinsky, and a world premiere composition by world-class tenor, Romulo Delgado.

On April 29, The Music of Star Wars will feature your favourite music from a galaxy far, far away. Arrive dressed as your favourite character from the film series and immerse yourself in the music of this iconic space-opera.

On May 27, the Mississauga Symphony

will be your guide through the solar system as they perform The Planets, an epic seven movement orchestral suite composed by Gustav Holst. A perfect concert to conclude a thrilling 2022/2023 concert season.

To add to a season of incredible orchestral music, the talented young musicians of the Mississauga Symphony Youth Orchestra will perform four concerts in Hammerson Hall. Led by Music Director and Conductor Maestro Denis Mastromonaco, the MSYO is an exciting division of Orchestras Mississauga that offers music education and performance opportunities to young classical musicians. The MSYO perform original versions of iconic classical works and are trained and treated as professionals.

To purchase tickets, visit mississaugasymphony.ca or contact the box office at the Living Arts Centre at: 905-306-6000.

Furniture and Cabinet Painting Services

www.splashofcharm.ca info@splashofcharm.ca

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

by jay kana

In conversation with Mississauga’s marvellous modern musician, Kevin Dvorak.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A MUSICIAN?

Once I heard Van Halen’s 1984 album, I became obsessed with music. Eddie’s imaginative guitar playing really sucked me into what you could do with an instrument. Although my musical journey followed a different path, there is no denying Eddie Van Halen and this album was the catalyst.

WHAT ARE THREE HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR CAREER?

My first highlight was joining the indie rock band “Public” back in 2005. It was the only time I was in a band that was signed to a record deal (Hollywood Records). It was a great learning experience for me as I was pretty green to the industry. This is where I refined my textural and methodical approach to guitar playing. “Public” led me to my second highlight which was doing session work for the Hamilton indie band “Oceanship”. This was for their first full length self titled album released in 2009. I am quite proud of my guitar contributions for this body of work. It was surreal to hear something I performed on played on the radio, as well as appear in the television shows Rookie Blue and One Tree Hill.

My third highlight is producing the song “Home With You” for Mississauga Independent Artist “Arlene”. This is the first time I produced a song for someone else. I am most proud of the outro arrangement I did for the track.

WHAT GUITARS DO YOU PLAY AND WHY THOSE SPECIFIC ONES?

Dvorak

I do own a variety of guitars, but my main ones have been the American Stratocaster and the American Telecaster. I’ve always loved how the fender necks felt in my hands. The Tele gets more love these days because I like the bite it has when you really overdrive the amp.

HOW DO YOU APPROACH SONGWRITING AND WHY?

I'll always write the music first, followed by the lyrical content. The melodies and sonic textures are what carry the musical weight in my writing. This is where you can evoke a lot of the emotion of the song. Sonics are universal.

WHAT'S YOUR CURRENT PROJECT AND WHAT JOY DOES THAT BRING YOU?

My current project is co-writing and producing the next EP for Arlene. I am enjoying this because the content is about mental health which is a subject that is very important to me. It’s the first time where all the songs have a similar lyrical theme.

WHAT SUCCINCT WORDS OF WISDOM DO YOU HAVE FOR ASPIRING MUSICIANS?

Make sure you are always being true to yourself and your art. At the end of the day, you need to be happy with what you are doing. Also don’t be afraid to try things that are outside your comfort zone. It may feel scary at first, but this is where the magic and growth happens.

IF YOU WERE TO PLAY ME ONE PIECE OF MUSIC YOU CREATED, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY?

I would show you an old demo I recorded called the “Diving Bell and Butterfly Effect”. The reason I would show you this is because it was the first piece where I truly felt confident in my abilities as a writer, arranger, and producer. All the vocals and instrumentation (except the live drums) were performed by me.

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THE SERENITY OF

Solo Travel

by claudia laroye

by jay kana

I’ve been a professional travel writer for over a decade and over 75% of my travels have been by myself. I have no qualms with group/pairs/couples travel as with the right people, there are adventures aplenty. I intentionally chose solo travel for so many reasons, which I’ll unpack below.

Before we scan our proverbial passports to this article, I strongly endorse travelling solo at least once in your lifetime as it offers a unique perspective on where you are, what you do, and how your memories are crafted. It can be one night or one week; across town or across the country - the beauty of travel is that it can be whatever you decide.

Uncovering hidden gems

Venturing on your own means you’ll have full input as to what attractions you’ll experience. Sure, the popular spots have their own allure but stumbling upon a dive bar, a quaint shop, a tiny ice cream parlour, etc., brings out a certain sense of excitement. Almost all of these types of places I’ve visited have yielded colourful conversations and in most cases, “local-only knowledge” of where I was, which sometimes led to other hidden gems that are less advertised. There’s a balance to be had and I encourage you to wander out safely on your own, phone in your pocket/purse with your head up to see what your next favourite spot could be.

Crafting your own itinerary

With all the group travel I’ve done, it’s been a pleasant experience and I’ve made several friends along my journey. The drawback for me is that I’m on the same schedule as everyone else, seeing the same things and eating at the same restaurants. I’m appreciative of tourism agencies and destinations for creating these itineraries for me…sometimes, ok, often, I enjoy making my own itinerary and choosing my own adventure. (Being the oldest child in a family of five probably contributed to that…) I’m up early in my home life and prefer to start my adventuring early as well so I’m able to start and end my day on my terms. It also offers greater flexibility as I can easily make my own changes to react to my conditions; perhaps I want to make a second visit to the tiny guitar shop. If I’m doing, for example, a two-hour scheduled bike ride/hike and want to do it again or extend my current time, it’s easier for me to adjust my choices than to be locked in someone else’s choices.

Escape your comfort zone

I thoroughly understand that solo travel isn’t for everyone; I didn’t think it was for me until I tried it. It doesn’t have to be traveling to the furthest part of the world for a month; it can be exploring the next city over for 24 hours. My biggest concern was dining alone and what people would think. Sadly, it used to be “who’s that peculiar person eating alone? Does he have no friends? Is he ok?” After my third trip, I built a bridge and got over myself so I could thoroughly enjoy my surroundings, meal and I’ve had excellent exchanges with staff and owners. The same goes for an activity usually done in pairs/groups, such as rides attractions, etc. Creating imaginary scenarios of what people might be saying/thinking is seldom reality. It can take time and as a pro-tip, playing on your phone is an easy way to help reduce any anxiety of traveling alone. With the utmost confidence, I can say that even a fingertip outside of your comfort zone is liberating and worth it.

Empower yourself

Whether it’s quick decision making, learning a new language, making decisions/adjustments to your itinerary, learning the layout of a city, reading a map, etc., the feeling of empowerment you create is unlike anything else. I used to be awful with maps and prior to this, I’d always have someone with me who was good with them. Venturing on my own forced me to learn this skill and it wasn’t as hard as I thought and I’ve turned out to be relatively good at it. Perhaps it’s doing a 5 km hike successfully when you previously through you’d only do half. It can also build and boost self confidence. I’m not saying you need it but when you get a lift, you truly feel and appreciate it.

Reconnect with yourself

With all this time alone adventuring, you’ll likely learn about yourself. Maybe you do like museums and art galleries! Kayaking might not be all that bad once you try it alone! Being alone with your thoughts and free of distraction enables you to dive as deep as desired into yourself. If you’ve been unhappy for a few weeks, you can take this time to figure out why. If you’ve been exceptionally happy, dig into what’s contributed and why. The point I’m making is being introspective wherever you are is important; being alone in a new environment can accentuate that and strengthen the internal connection with yourself. It’s certainly done wonders for me.

WONDERFUL WINTER ACTIVITIES

The mental health benefits that come from getting outside don’t stop when the temperature dips and the snow

by steph wallcraft

Daily activity and time outdoors are important at any time of the year! If you usually hibernate through the colder months, resolve to change that and embrace winter this year by bundling up for one of these time-honoured cold-weather activities. Whether you’re trying one out for the first time or just enjoying an old favourite in a new location, there’s bound to be something on this list that will warm your heart and ward off the winter chill.

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing may sound like an embellished walk in the woods, but it’s also a fast-paced workout that will get your heart pumping. If you don’t have your own equipment but would like to try it out, make plans to head north for the day. Note that most locations require rentals to be arranged in advance. Albion Hills Conservation Park in Caledon, about an hour from Mississauga, has equipment rentals along with trails rated easy, moderate, and difficult. Hardwood Ski and Bike is just north of Barrie and 1.5 hours north of Mississauga with cross-country ski trails for all abilities ranging from 3 to 22 kilometres (snowshoeing and winter fat biking are also offered). For a weekend getaway with a variety of winter sports on offer, check out Horseshoe Resort, which is also located just north of Barrie and has beautiful forested trails of varying difficulty while also offering snowshoeing, fat biking, downhill skiing and snowboarding, and…

starts to fly.

Skating

Just strap on some skates and you’re ready to enjoy a fun and low-cost outdoor winter activity. If you don’t have time to venture far from home, there’s a great rink located right downtown at Mississauga’s Celebration Square. To wind your way through some short skating trails with no fees, head to nearby Colonel Sam Smith Park in Etobicoke or Gage Park in downtown Brampton. If you’ve got the time and budget to look further afield, Island Lake Conservation Area in Orangeville (one hour north) has rinks as well as a skating trail most years (check with the park on 2023 status), and Arrowhead Provincial Park is located 2.5 hours north of Mississauga and has a 1.3-kilometre skating trail that’s reached near-legendary status in Southern Ontario. Both make for excellent day trips from Mississauga but can be busy on winter weekends, so be sure to plan ahead. If you’re looking to enjoy a weekend away with the family, check out Fern Resort near Orillia, about an hour and a half’s drive north. Fern is a family-friendly all-inclusive resort, where winter activities include skating on a lake rink and on 1.5-kilometre skating trail, snowshoeing, outdoor curling, ice fishing, and…

Tubing

Tubing takes tobogganing to the next level of exhilaration! This is a great activity for older kids with bundles of energy: they’ll sleep especially well after an afternoon blasting down hills and breathing in fresh air. Horseshoe Resort is one option, or take a look at Snow Valley Ski Resort, which is also near Barrie and offers three lifts and 14 tubing runs. Snow Valley offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, and it’s also one of very few places that has a separate tubing kids zone for children under 42 inches tall. Chicopee Tube Park, located in Kitchener about an hour west of Mississauga, is dedicated to tubing and has six chutes up to 900 metres in length. Or if you’d rather stay closer to home, Brampton’s Mount Chinguacousy at Chinguacousy Park offers tubing. Unlike most locations that charge for time windows, Mount Chinguacousy sells tickets in six-ride bundles, which may work better for some families.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

With smart gift ideas and plenty of options, The Home Depot Canada is your one-stop-spot this Holiday season! Enhance your home with terrific tech ideas, comforting cozy choices, delightful do-it-yourself options and happy Holiday selections to make your space one of serenity.

TREES & ACCESSORIES

Home Accents Holiday 7.5 ft Sparkling Amelia Pine LED Pre-Lit Artificial Christmas Tree with 600 Warm White Micro Fairy Lights Create a majestic atmosphere this holiday season with the Home Accents Holiday 7.5 ft Pre-Lit Sparkling Pine Quick Set Artificial Christmas Tree. It features 1,197 mixed branch tips, pre-decorated with pine cones dusted with glitter, and brushed with a cashmere finish to give the tree a wintery look. It is also pre-lit with 600 warm white micro dot LED lights with five different light effects to brighten up your home. It’s easy to set up with the Quick Set technology; simply connect the tree sections together and watch the tree light up in front of your eyes.

Home Accents Holiday 7.5 ft. 500 Warm White Micro LED Pre-Lit Lexington Heavy Flocked Quick Set Christmas Tree Bring the holidays in with this Home Accents Holiday 7.5 ft. Pre-Lit

Lexington Heavy Flocked Quick Set White Pine Artificial Christmas Tree. It features 1,190 tips covered with a flocking finish, giving it a winter, snowy look. This dazzling tree comes pre-lit with 500 warm white Micro Fairy LED lights with five different light effects to choose from. The Quick Set technology helps you to set up the tree effortlessly, allowing you to assemble and light up the tree in minutes by connecting the tree sections together. The included foot pedal allows for easy light operation.

Home Accents Holiday 18.5 in Rattan Tabletop Tree

Welcome your family and guests with this 18.5in Rattan Tabletop Tree made of Rattan. 7 tier design is topped off with champagne gold star. Updated Cochet styling makes it ready for any room.

Home Accents Holiday 22-inch Christmas Pampas Wreath Décor your home with this 22 inch Pampas Grass wreath in off-white. Layers of Pampas grass add depth to your door or wall. It makes a nice contrast to the seasonal colours by adding a little Subtle to your décor. Coordinates nicely with any theme in your home.

PRACTICAL GIFTS FOR THE DIYER

DEWALT 12V/20V MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless/Corded Worksite Bluetooth Speaker

The DCR010 is designed to be the most versatile Bluetooth speaker on the market. The unit is able to run off DEWALT slide pack battery packs including 12-Volt, 20-Volt, and FLEXVOLT packs. Can be run in

AC current mode with provided power cord. Bluetooth connectivity up to 100 ft. Up to 15-hours runtime (15 Ah 20V MAX) Rugged and durable design to withstand tough job site conditions.

RYOBI All-Purpose 120-Piece Kit

RYOBI introduces the 120-Piece All-Purpose Kit. This set includes options for cutting, carving, engraving, cleaning, polishing, and grinding. This set contains interchangeable bit bars. These bit bars are interchangeable with drill drive cases as well as the RYOBI Link Storage System. Expand your hobby and maker capabilities with these RYOBI accessories. Includes cutting, carving and engraving, cleaning and polishing, and grinding options, a stand-up case and interchangeable bit bars. For use on wood, metal, and plastic and features 1/8 inch shanks

COZY GIFTS

DEERLUX 50" x 60 " Comfortable Ruched

Faux Fur Cozy Throw Blanket for Sofa and Bed, Tan

Enhance your bed or sofa with this tan ruched faux fur throw blanket. Snuggle up by the fire, in bed or on the sofa with this ultra-soft long fur blanket. Ideal for long frigid winter nights to overnight guest and everything in-between, and the best of all this blanket is machine washable. Sized at 50" x 60”, the super soft faux fur is warm, cozy, and has a luxurious feel. It’s also machine washable for easy maintenance and care.

Barsetto Koolatron Barsetto One-Touch Automatic Espresso Coffee Machine, Black and Stainless Steel Barsetto® offers coffee lovers the perfect made-in-Italy espresso in the comfort of their own home. With the touch of a button, the 19 bar high-pressure pump delivers rich aromatic espresso with a velvety thick crema. Choose between a 1.5 oz. short or 3 oz. long shot and start pre-heating and brewing with the touch of a button. Preheat the 0.7L capacity water tank and dispense your first shot in under 45 seconds, then brew up to 8 additional shots with no waiting. A removable drip

tray and used pod storage compartment are dishwasher safe for effortless cleanup. It’s compatible with Barsetto®, Nespresso Original Line, and other standard espresso capsules for endless flavour possibilities!

HIGH-TECH GIFTS

Lutron Caseta Wireless Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch (2-Pack) Starter Kit with Pedestals for Pico Remotes

Caseta Wireless by Lutron provides easy and reliable control of your lights, shades and temperature from the free Lutron app. Experience superior dimming performance of LED bulbs, schedule lights to automatically adjust, and control lights and scenes with your voice via Alexa and Siri. Caseta works in any home, of any age, because it does not require a neutral wire. You can create a 3-way by mounting the included Pico to almost any wall surface without cutting holes or pulling wire. It requires a Pico Wallmount Bracket (PICO-WBXADAPT sold separately.) Works with up to 150W dimmable LED/CFL bulbs or 600W incandescent/halogen bulbs; not rated for low voltage applications. It can set lights to automatically adjust with changing seasons so your family always comes back to a well-lit home; you can also enable the smart away feature to randomly turn your lights on and off to look like you're home even if you're away

Philips HUE Play Single Kit - Black Finish

Create a vibrant ambiance with the Hue Play light bar. Choose from 16 million colours to experience different light effects. Lay it on the floor, let it stand on the cabinet, or mount it on the back of the TV and paint your wall with light. Get the full Philips Hue experience by setting timers, notifications, alarms, and more. Use the Philips Hue app on your smartphone or tablet to control your lights or add switches to activate. Utilize voice commands with Amazon Alexa, Apple Homekit, or Google Home for hands-free management. Must be connected to Philips Hue bridge (sold separately) to operate.

Presented in partnership with The Home Depot Canada

10 BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR

For the last decade, Indigo has released its highly anticipated “Best Books of the Year” list, carefully curated by Indigo’s book experts who love books just as much as their customers do. Indigo is so confident in its Best Books of the Year, this year they have deemed the top 10 novels “Guaranteed Reads,” meaning if you read it and don’t love it, you can return it! When it comes to book recommendations, Indigo is the expert in selecting a diverse range of captivating titles that are bound to have you hooked.

#10 Things We Do In The Dark: A Novel - Jennifer Hillier

Things We Do in the Dark is a brilliant new thriller from Jennifer Hillier, the award-winning author of the breakout novels Little Secrets and Jar of Hearts. Paris Peralta is suspected of killing her celebrity husband, and her longhidden past now threatens to destroy her future.

#9 Freezing Order: A true story of money laundering, murder, and surviving Vladimir Putin’s wrath - Bill Browder

Following his explosive New York Times bestseller Red Notice, Bill Browder returns with another gripping thriller chronicling how he became Vladimir Putin’s number one enemy by exposing Putin’s campaign to steal and launder hundreds of billions of dollars and kill anyone who stands in his way.

#8 We Spread - Iain Reid

The author of the “evocative, spine-tingling, and razorsharp” (Bustle) I’m Thinking of Ending Things that inspired the Netflix original movie and the “short, shocking psychological three-hander” (The Guardian) Foe returns with a new work of philosophical suspense.

#7 The Marriage Portrait - Maggie O’Farrell

From the author of the breakout bestseller Hamnet—winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award and the Women’s Prize—an electrifying new novel set in Renaissance Italy, and centering on the captivating young duchess Lucrezia de Medic And her battle for her very survival.

#6 Scars and Stars - Indigo Edition: Poems - Jesse Thistle

An Indigo exclusive edition of the beautiful and moving collection of poems and stories from the author of the #1 bestselling memoir From the Ashes, featuring a new afterword. Fans of Thistle’s extraordinary debut From the Ashes have already had the pleasure of reading his poetry,

which is sprinkled throughout his bestselling memoir. Here, he digs deeper into the poetic form, which is especially close to his heart.

#5 Book Lovers - Emily Henry

An insightful, delightful, instant #1 New York Times bestseller from the author of Beach Read and People We Meet on Vacation, Emily Henry offers up the ultimate enemies-to-lovers, small town romance. Named a Most Anticipated Book of 2022 by Oprah Daily, Today, Parade, Marie Claire, Bustle, PopSugar, Katie Couric Media, Book Bub, SheReads, Medium, The Washington Post, and more!

#4 Looking For Jane: A Novel - Heather Marshall

For readers of Joanna Goodman and Genevieve Graham comes a masterful debut novel about three women whose lives are bound together by a long-lost letter, a mother’s love, and a secret network of women fighting for the right to choose—inspired by true stories.

#3

Babel: An Arcane History - R. F. Kuang

From award-winning author R. F. Kuang comes Babel, a thematic response to The Secret History and a tonal retort to Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell that grapples with student revolutions, colonial resistance, and the use of language and translation as the dominating tool of the British empire.

#2 Namwayut - We Are All One: A Pathway To Reconciliation - Chief Robert Joseph

We all share a common humanity. No matter how long or difficult the path ahead, we are all one.Reconciliation belongs to everyone. In this profound book, Chief Robert Joseph, globally recognized peacebuilder, and Hereditary Chief of the Gwawaenuk People, traces his journey from his childhood surviving residential school to his present-day role as a leader who inspires individual hope, collective change, and global transformation.

#1 Our Missing Hearts - Celeste Ng

From the number one bestselling author of Little Fires Everywhere, Our Missing Hearts is focused on themes of anti-Asian hate, discrimination, activism and assimilation, and is an unforgettable story of sacrifice and love. Diverging from her first two books, the novel takes readers on a wholly different journey from the one they have come to expect; one that Indigo strongly believes will resonate with customers and contribute meaningfully to the cultural zeitgeist.

be adventurous...

BE GOOD TO PEOPLE

The idea for Be Good to People was inspired by a rude experience that founder Kris Wittenberg had while running errands at lunch. Once back in the office, she exasperatedly asked, “Why can’t people just be good to people?” It was a lightbulb moment and she decided to put “Be Good To People” on a t-shirt and send a message to the world. All products are black and white because it’s that simple, so Be Good to People’s tagline became “It’s so simple…it’s black and white.” They have tees, hoodies, hats and apparel in a variety of sizes and styles They donate 2% of every purchase to the Be Good To People Foundation, non-profit whose mission is to create a kinder world.

TOP 170 UNUSUAL THINGS TO SEE IN ONTARIO

This revised and expanded edition of the classic guide to Ontario’s most fascinating things offers travellers from near and far quirky and odd places to experience. Included in this wonderful collection by Canadian writer Ron Brown are train rides, ferry trips, scenic roads and unusual natural and manmade attractions. Read about the fascinating stories and backgrounds and accompanying photos in this guide, carefully curated by the award-winning Brown. If you’re looking for adventure in 2023 and beyond, let this be you compass.

CITIZEN CZ SMART HYBRID SMARTWATCH

Introducing a genius timepiece like you’ve never seen before – the new CZ Smart Hybrid has all the style of iconic Citizen design combined with the best-tech functions of a smartwatch. The impressive 15-day battery keeps up with your busy lifestyle in a distinctive design that stands out. This new CZ Smart Hybrid watch features a black ion-plated stainless steel sport bezel and 44mm case with functioning dials on the black and white display with luminous analog hands. The black silicone integrated strap blends with the overall design and fits perfectly on your wrist. Utilize the Citizen Connected app to manage your notifications, change your dials and see your fitness stats. Stay on track with the convenience of information at a glance on your hybrid smartwatch display. You can choose the dial that fits your mood or style and customize the information on display to meet your needs including, steps, weather, heart rate, and more. Simply put, it’s easy to set up, stylish, functional and a terrific use of modern technology.

be satisfied...

HAMILTON BEACH

The Scoop Single-Serve Coffee Maker with Removable Reservoir is a practical coffee maker that makes great-tasting coffee easy. Simply scoop your favourite ground coffee and tap brew. The mesh brew basket doubles as a scoop, so there's no need to measure coffee grounds. Enjoy fewer refills with a large 40 oz. removable water reservoir that brews multiple cups, it brews up to 14 oz. of fresh coffee in minutes, and the lip up/down stand lets you brew a cup or 7” travel mug.

HAMILTON BEACH

The Hamilton Beach 6 Quart Programmable Defrost Slow Cooker is ideal for those with busy lifestyles who don’t have a lot of time to prepare meals. It comes with a temperature probe, flexible time and temperature options, and works well for frozen meat, as it defrosts first, then cooks it until done. Best of all, it’s dishwasher safe.

HAMILTON BEACH

With a powerful 300 watt motor and planetary mixing action for complete bowl coverage, the Hamilton Beach 6 Speed Stand Mixer 63330C is designed for handsfree mixing. Six speeds and 3 mixing attachments give you maximum versatility and precise control. Enjoy Hands-free mixing action as the mixing head spins as it rotates completely inside the bowl. It includes 3 attachments; a flat beater, dough hook & whisk are dishwasher safe. A stainless steel 3.5 Quart Bowl, tilt-up head and 300 watt motor, along with 6 speeds and fold setting make this an ideal baking companion.

EATALY

Bring the authentic tastes of Italy into your home!Pack your bags, amici! These ingredients will take you on a trip from north to south and across Italy's diverse regions. Buon viaggio! Included in these delicious and diverse offerings are Torrone with Pistachio and Almond 200g Sorelle Nurzia, Mosto EVOO 250ml - ROI, Pistachio Spread 180ml - Scyavuru, 4 Dadi Mixed Cremino Chocolate 41g - Majani, Cherry Preserve 340g - Conserve del Trentino, Bella di Cerignola Olives 110ml - De Carlo, Linguine Pasta 500gRigorosa, Gran Pasticceria Creme Noisette Chocolate Wafer 100g - Loacker, Genovese Pesto with Basil 180g - Niasca Portofino, Cream Millefoglie Cookies 125g - Vicenzi, and Salted Capers 200g - Mongetto

be healed...

HEALING THROUGH WORDS BY RUPI KAUR

Rupi Kaur welcomes you into her world of writing and creativity through her fourth book, Healing Through Words. This collection of her curated guided writing exercises encourages you to explore themes of trauma, loss, heartache, love, healing, and celebration of the self. It is the creativity tool for everyone. Pick up a pen. Reflect. And let your thoughts wander. Available at Indigo.

DUAL-SIDED FACIAL ROLLER BY AURIA

A must-have addition to any skincare routine, rose quartz has minerals designed to help firm skin, reduce under-eye puffiness and make your complexion glow. Suitable for everyday use, this compact roller helps reduce tension and relax muscles. The dual-sided facial roller features a wide end for your forehead, cheeks and neck, and a smaller end for more delicate areas around the eyes, nose and mouth. Available at Indigo.

WEARABLE WEIGHTS BY AURIA

Strengthen and tone with our wearable one-pound weights set designed to add constant yet comfortable resistance during workouts, while walking, or any other activity. Versatile weights can be worn on wrists or ankles. Durable neoprene and iron sand create a customizable fit that molds to your body. Wear them on your wrists or ankles.Spot clean as needed with mild soap and cold water. These are exclusive to Indigo. Available at Indigo.

IRIS GUEST SOAP BOX S15

Inspired by a 1919 original product, this guest soap box is a feast to the senses. It is a tribute to the art of soap making and to the rich heritage we carry for over 130 years. Including some of our best-selling soaps, in a colorful limited edition, this is your absolute go-to gift. Within this set, you'll find the soaps Voga, Alface, Favorito, Elite, Banho, Ilyria, Chypre, Deco and Cerina. Available at Indigo.

be merry...

JACKSON FAMILY WINES

Murphy Goode 2018 Merlot is crafted in a big, broad-shouldered style, with intense dark fruit, cherry, plum, herb, vanilla, chocolate and spicy oak. An impressive wine that will be equally at home at a casual barbecue with ribs, sausages or burgers or a formal roast beef dinner.

La Crema 2019 Pinot Noir is slightly darker in colour, fuller in body, and a touch more on the dry side, this Pinot still qualifies as mediumbodied but carries more weight with plenty of black fruit on the nose. The flavour is a complex melange of sweet and sour cherries along with raspberry and that characteristic metallic finish. Its well-structured and lasting acidity would cut the richness of mushroom risotto or grilled pork beautifully.

LANEWAY DISTILLERS EVER GIN

A unique gin liqueur crafted from juniper, wild-foraged Canadian botanicals and dark maple syrup. Seductive aromas of toffee, woodsy forest and fragrant evergreen. Flavours of earthy spice with vanilla-caramel and fresh pine notes. Unlike anything you’ve ever tasted, yet highly evocative of the beloved Canadian wilderness.

ROYAL RANTHAMBORE WHISKY

In July 2022, Rampur distillery, one of India’s largest, launched a blended whisky, the Royal Ranthambore. This blended whisky, is inspired by the Ranthambore’s land of majestic tigers and legendary kings, reflecting the “Timeless Valour”. It’s crafted with various bespoke blended malt scotches from different geographical regions, made from 100% malted barley and blended with oak infused Indian Grain Neutral Spirit to harmonize the Royal blend. Visually, you’ll see a golden hue, with a tint of amber. On the nose, it offers warm and intense orchard fruit aromas, followed by sweet floral notes and hints of citrus. Subtle forest honey and spicy dried fruits at the end leave a lasting trail. On the palate, allow a sip to linger in the mouth and the warmth of your palate entices out a flurry of rich flavours like English muffins, melted butter, plum cakes, apple pie, cocoa and a hint of spicy peaty smoke in the background. The finish is long and smoothes out with time

LANEWAY DISTILLERS #11 GIN

A fresh and fragrant, smooth-bodied gin infused with evocative forest aromas from wild-foraged Canadian botanicals. It hits the palate with loads of bright, layered citrus and a hint of lush berry, then rounds out to warm spice and complex woodsy flavours, ending with a crisp juniper finish. Enjoy neat or in a cocktail.

LANEWAY DISTILLERS #33 GIN

A beautifully complex gin crafted from 33+ botanicals –the perfect marriage of exotic spice and Canadian wilderness. Clean, fresh juniper on the nose leads to a sensational blend of flavours on the palate – layered citrus, lush berry, herbaceous, spicy and woodsy notes in a harmony that is more than the sum of its parts.

GRUVI NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

Gruvi is a line of non-alcoholic social beverages led by a dynamic sister and brother duo, offering craft beer and wine for a hangover-free tomorrow. With Secco Wine, Rose Wine, IPA, Stout, Pale Ale, Lager, Mocha Nitro Stout, Juicy IPA, Red Blend, and Sangria, Gruvi focuses on creating a wide variety of delicious social beverages. With exceptional craft taste, no alcohol, and as few as 26 calories for the entire drink, Gruvi can be enjoyed without any regrets or trade-offs, especially via their Variety Pack. Launched in 2019, they’re now sold in 2,000 retail locations across the U.S., Canada, and Australia.

COOKBOOKS MAKE the BEST GIFTS

by anna hobbs

Looking for a gift for that special someone who loves to cook?

I’ve rounded up this season’s best, with something to delight cooks of every stripe.

Dinners, especially quick, healthy and environmentally friendly ones, are where it’s at.

1. For the Cook who Wants to Up Their Game

Andy Baraghani’s obsession for food bursts forth in The Cook You Want To Be. A gutsy cook, he is a fan of big, spices and lemon flavours, layered textures and crunchy toppings. Every recipe provides an extra twist or ingredient to take the ordinary to extraordinary.

Ten Speed Press

2. For the Nosher

If someone on your list loves grazing or tapas, they will relish the way Lukas Volgar turns small bites into full plates. Snacks for Dinner also includes clever ideas for parties and picnics. 100 recipes and 75 colour photos.

Harper Collins

3.

For the Busy Mom and Dad

In I Dream of Dinner (so you don’t have to) Ali Slagle’s dinners come together with fewer than eight inexpensive ingredients, in less than 45 minutes, using one or two pots and pans. Another treasure from the popular New York Times contributor.

Clarkson Potter

4. For the Stir-fry Buff

J. Kenji López-Alt, the host of Kenji’s Cooking show and author of The Food Lab, is back. This time, with The Wok: Recipes and Techniques, the definitive be-all, end-all guide to what to look for when you buy a wok, to the science behind the process and tricks to cook with “the most versatile pan in the kitchen.”

Penguin Random House

5. For Barefoot Contessa Fans

Ina Garten, America’s beloved home cook has done it again. The inspiration for Go-To Dinners came from preparing dinners night after night during the pandemic. The result is a collection of delicious, simply assembled recipes with lots to make -ahead and freeze-ahead.

Clarkson

Potter/Ten Speed

6. For the Healthy Eater

For anyone who is interested in restoring or maintaining gut health, Good for Your Gut is essential reading. Vancouver dietician, Desiree Nielsen offers an informative digestive health guide along with delicious, nourishing, plant-based recipes.

Penguin Random House

7. For the Sweet Tooth

Fans of the Great British Bake Off Contest will recognize former contestant, Benjamina Ebuchi. A Good Day to Bake, her second book promises to be another best seller, as she tweaks classic desserts, making them even more delicious. 70 recipes for sweet and savory treats.

Chronicle

8. For the Environmentalist

Know someone who is concerned about the planet? Who wants to cook sustainably? One Pot, Pan, Planet is the perfect gift. Award-winning author, Anna Jones puts vegetables at the centre of every table because they are good for you and the planet and can actually help to shift the our world.

Harper Collins

9. For the Gourmand

The much-anticipated Langdon Hall Cookbook was worth the wait. Jason Bangerter, award-winning chef at Canada’s unrivalled country house hotel, shares a stunning collection of seasonal recipes. A visual feast, a lavish coffee table book and a memorable gift for the serious cook. Destined to become a Canadian classic.

Penguin

10. For the Oenophile

The BC Wine Lover’s Cookbook is a travel guide to 53 wineries throughout the province, an in-person visit with the winemakers and their families and a celebration of their favourite recipes. Readers will feel as if they have been invited to dinner. Jennifer Schell, award-winning food and wine writer and photographer brings it all together.

Penguin Random House

Another Casualty of the WAR ON CHRISTMAS

by john murray

CHRISTMAS

IT'S A TRAVESTY.

This year, for the first time in Canadian history, Toronto's Eaton Centre won't be putting up a Christmas tree. Reactions from the woke media have been predictably blasé. "Who cares?" "It's because they're in the middle of large-scale renovations." "There are literally trillions of other trees." These so-called culture warriors have no respect for history. They don't give a hoot about heritage. And they certainly couldn't care less about time-honoured traditions, like how I take the TTC down to the Eaton Centre every Christmas Eve to urinate on the giant tree after my wife kicks me out because I split a two-four of Laker Ice with the neighbour's dog.

Call it what it is: one more innocent victim in the never-ending War on Christmas.

Call me old-fashioned while you're at it, but I was raised to believe that Christmas is about one thing and one thing only: the palpable, sweaty dread of 1st-century Christians cowering in their makeshift churches, praying desperately to God for deliverance from a gruesome execution at the hands of their imperial Roman overlords. Now that was the kind of nauseating terror that could lead a man to share a drink with a labradoodle, or relieve himself on the base of a festively-decorated, 108-foot tall tree. But is that the kind of deep, unsettling fear that comes to mind when you think about Christmas in 2022? Hardly. Today it's all "sugar plum fairy" this and "peace on earth" that, "spending time with loved ones" and "spreading joy and cheer," "drinking Coca-Cola" or "celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ."

The list goes on and on, each entry a bullet in the riddled carcass of this once-dignified season.

I wonder what's next on the chopping block.

Could be your local Christmas market. Who needs it, right? I'm sure all those talented artisans can find some other way to earn a livelihood from their beautifully handcrafted wares, such as the Kinder Surprises I buy in bulk from a guy called "Tender Sam" who lives in a shipping container by the pier, which I then resell for $5.99 after replacing the toys inside with miniature replicas of anatomically accurate whale phalluses. Blame the inflation, I say! Speaking of which, who can afford to attend a Santa Claus parade these days? Might as well cut that too. Sure, we'll lose another long-standing Christmas tradition, namely the three hours I spend chain-smoking in front of young children while sporting my sequin-studded leather YULE DADDY romper, but that doesn't matter to the liberal elites. Nothing's sacred to them. Honestly, I wouldn't even be surprised if they tried to cancel Flugenspiel, the one night a year (December 26th) when arson is legal.

Maybe I'm just getting nostalgic. Maybe I should just accept the fact that this is one battle I'm never going to win. Maybe I should just let the harrowing, alcohol-drenched Christmases of my childhood fade into oblivion, replaced with some newfangled celebration of love or brotherhood or another brand of feel-good claptrap. But then I ask myself this: where would we be today if those early Christians had just given up, if instead of huddling in their hovels while Roman sentries hunted them door to door, they had relaxed, broke bread with family and friends, sung a song or two?

So the war rages on.

Dear reader, you go ahead and have yourself a "Merry Little Christmas." I won't blame you. But as for me, I'm not surrendering yet. There's still plenty of fight (and urine) left in these old jingle bells.

murray lewis | photo by freestocks on unsplash

MALTON MINUTES

The first snowfall of the season has arrived as I’m writing this. There is something magical about the covering of glimmering white over the trees and rooftops as we head into winter. Our communities begin to sparkle with lights and cookies suddenly seem to be everywhere.

The holiday season means different things to so many of us. Traditions vary across cultures and Canada now has a meld of many ways to celebrate to choose from. Parties and gatherings remain central to most of these however and this year I know we are all looking forward to the festivities part of holiday time! What does that mean when you think of Malton? Why taking advantage of the many services, shops, restaurants and more that are here.

What’s on offer here in Malton that can help you with the holidays? Well of course there is always gifts for others to be found from jewellery to fashion choices. Craving sweets is easy to satisfy but so are savory options for when you want to entertain but don’t want to do the work. Need to refresh your own look for the holidays? Malton offers many beauty services from the do it yourself supply route to a pampering experience.

Don’t forget to plan for some down time, take in a public skate at the Paul Coffey Arena, a walk in the park or experience the immersive lights at Illumi. Making sure that you also prioritize time for your health by eating properly, getting rest is as important as going from one event to another. It’s ok to say no if you really can’t make it!

May the season bring you smiles and laughter and memories to brighten each day.

maltonbia.com

by natalie hart | photo from illumi

Managing Stress & Schedules

CREATING A SUSTAINABLE BALANCE

Do you ever look at your calendar and wonder what you were thinking? It happens to all of us and it isn’t easy to manage when we face the competing demands of holidays, family, friends, work, community and more. How do you work to balance it all when the pressure to have it all gets to intense?

First of all the word “no” isn’t horrible. It is ok to turn down events or plans that you can’t make work. In fact, it can be much better to postpone some of the gatherings into January when there are less demands and more options to host outside your home! Maybe it is the gift giving that’s causing stress, consider altering the plans you’ve typically done to be a more fun and affordable option or making a commitment to a charity that matters to your recipient. One of the most inventive approaches to corporate gifts I ever did

was instead of chocolates I found toys that represented my clients’ businesses, and we donated them to a local toy drive. Nobody missed the box of chocolates, but they really loved the idea of spreading some joy to children.

Is it holiday cooking that stresses you out? It’s a cliché to say make ahead but it can help. The best advice is to not overwhelm your plans with new recipes. If you really want to try something different limit it to one new method or idea and avoid the temptation to over complicate your menu.

Mix and match homemade with bought items. The conversations and laughter are why everyone is there not just the food so take it easy on yourself.

by natalie hart | photo by icons8 team on unsplash

Decluttering WHAT TO DO WITH ALL THAT STUFF

It happens to all of us: little piles turn into big piles, and then it’s time to declutter. There’s plenty of advice out there that’s great for getting started, but sometimes the hardest part is just figuring out how to get the stuff you don’t need out of your home without unnecessarily adding it to a landfill.

I went through this myself recently, and here’s some of what I learned. Perhaps these tips will help you dig into some overdue tidying tasks and learn to love your space again, too. Note that some of these tips are specific to Mississauga; if you’re located elsewhere, check with your municipality for similar programs.

Clothing: Simple items can go to your local Value Village, Salvation Army, or similar donation centre. But underused designer labels and high-value handbags don’t need to be given up for free. Poshmark comes recommended as an online marketplace for high-end second-hand items and takes 20%

of the final sale price as a fee. Mississauga also has several consignment stores worth exploring: Style Encore at Hurontario and Bristol and It’s Our Little Secret in Port Credit are both well-rated, and there’s a location of consignment chain Plato’s Closet on Dundas St. East near Highway 427.

Items with value: eBay is decent for selling things with broad interest such as collectibles or video games, but it can be frustrating to get started and tricky to make a profit. A local reseller focused on your type of merchandise may offer you less, but you’ll save a lot of hassle. Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace can be good alternatives, especially if you dig a little and find Facebook buy and sell groups for your neighbourhood, where you might have better luck reselling items like furniture and working appliances.

Unwanted items with life left in them: Have a desk that’s seen better days? A bag full of clothes hangers? Dishes that aren’t your style? Consider checking out your local

Your Space:

Buy Nothing group on Facebook. I cleared out a bunch of stuff this way, and it all went to happy homes with people who were mostly friendly, punctual, and just as pleased to keep useful items out of landfills. (But be alert to scams and cautious when giving out your address online.)

Bulky items: Many large and small appliances that are no longer working, as well as electronics like old computers or mobile phones, can be taken to a Community Recycling Centre (CRC), often free of charge. The Region of Peel maintains a website (https://www.peelregion.ca/scripts/waste/how-to-sort-your-waste. pl) where you can search for how to dispose of a specific unwanted item. Be sure to erase any personal information from electronic devices first!

Batteries: These should never go in the garbage as they will leak toxic chemicals over time. You can leave them at the curb with your household waste twice a year on battery pickup day,

take them to a CRC free of charge, or visit call2recycle.ca to find a drop-off point that’s convenient for you.

Shredded paper: The Canada Revenue Agency requires financial records to be kept for six years. This means you can shred anything older, and you can get rid of even more paper by scanning digital copies of more recent documents so they can be shredded as well. In Mississauga, shredded paper is considered organic waste and can go in your green bin.

Trash: Inevitably, you’ll end up with some garbage. If it’s more than you can fit in your grey bin, you can take it to a CRC. Here’s how it works: your vehicle is weighed on the way in, you show proof of residence in Peel Region, and then you dispose of your items by sorting it into bins such as wood, metal, concrete, and trash. Your vehicle is weighed again on the way out, and you pay $6 for the first 50 kilograms of difference and another 12.2 cents per additional kilogram. It’s a small price to pay for a tidy and organized home!

Decluttering

by steph wallcraft | photo by hobi industri on unsplash

Helpful Habits Worth Creating

by jay kana |

photo by prophsee journals on unsplash

Creating and sticking to a new habit usually takes around 66 days, according to recent studies. It can seem like a long time but for me at least, after week three, it becomes part of my everyday life. While everyone’s different, this is the time of year that habitually, new habits are considered, evaluated and implemented. If you’re looking for some to add to the consideration list, here’s a few worth thinking about.

SLOWING DOWN SOCIAL MEDIA

There’s so much noise between all the platforms and it’s easy to lose track of time wandering through the labyrinth of apps. Instead of doing a full cleanse of these apps, consider a gradual reduction in usage, starting with 10 minutes per day. Add a few minutes to that every five days and you’ll strategically and sustainably spend less time on these apps. For those who want a stronger reduction, up it to a 50% reduction from your daily usage.

SLASHING SCREEN TIME

Carrying on the aforementioned, an overall reduction in screen time is increasing in popularity. Yes, smartphones are an integral aspect of our lives as we have a world of information in our proverbial pockets. However, turning off notifications, setting a no-phone-zone (bedrooms, bathrooms, etc.) and doing other activities can help ease the transition. Plus, it could possibly reduce eye strain.

EXERCISE

I’m cautiously adding this one as it’s a very subjective topic and will only include what I do. My mentality of “being in motion” has made it easier for me to exercise. Maybe it’s the stigma of the word “exercise” but from parking a bit further from wherever I’m going to taking a few minutes of steps every 2 hours at home, it’s certainly helped.

SAYING NO

With thousands of articles on how to and the benefits of saying no. It’s a challenge as there’s a sense of letting someone down, especially family or friends. However, the psychology of creating this habit involves in depth research and plenty of practice. I wish I learned the “you can’t do it all” lesson in my 20’s; I’d have started saying no much earlier. I’m better at saying no but still find myself not doing it as often as I want to. It’s in my “lifelong commitment” column though.

JOURNALING

Writing down your thoughts, feelings and emotions can be cathartic. It can occupy a few minutes or an hour of your day, it’s completely yours, and you can use it to both evaluate your past, monitor your progress and plan for your future. It’s thoroughly private and a strong tool for self-reflection. While not for everyone, many of those who do utilize this habit fully endorse it.

DOLLARS AND SENSE

I was due for a pun… Most budgets are monthly exercises. Consider monitoring it weekly as there are variables that can impact your bottom line. Whether it’s gas, food, utilities, recreation or anything else, it’s a good habit to always know where your money is and what it’s doing for you. Make adjustments as needed but the first step is awareness, which to me, is best done weekly.

MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF

Another habit I wish I’d started earlier is making time for myself. It’s difficult to carve out time in a busy schedule that can already be overwhelming. It truly doesn’t matter what you do with this time - it’s yours to do what makes you happy. Whether it’s reading Modern Mississauga, meditating, journaling, going for a drive or anything else, making time to do things that make you happy is integral for a balanced life. Yet another habit learned too late in life but am happy I have now. Its definitely better late than never.

MIKE RICHARDS YOU CAN ALWAYS BET ON

by praveen amirtharaj

Mike Richards is the host of the popular “Raw Mike Richards Show” that airs Monday to Friday from 7-9 am on Sauga960AM. He has also been the quintessential morning man on Canadian radio over the past 30 years and I sat down recently with him to reflect on his career, passions and the future of radio.

PRAVEEN AMIRTHARAJ: When did you first realize your future was in radio?

MIKE RICHARDS:

I wanted to be a goalie. I was pretty good. Went to hockey camps, where I caught the eye of coaches like Jaques Martin and Mike Keenan, but somehow bailed on the dream and went to Yuk Yuks and I was still in high school, what the hell.. During this time I was seen performing at an event, hosted by CKEY's Dick Young and Robert Payne. They thought I had a good voice, so... I went to Fanshawe College for 1 year and then Ryerson for one year. That summer I worked at CKBB in Barrie and by fall, I landed my first radio job at 1050 CHUM in Toronto.

PA: You were a stand up comic?

MR: I auditioned for a comedy club where the Toronto Star's Rob Salem “discovered” me. He put me on a road that would eventually see me open up at venues like Roy Thompson Hall in front of George Carlin, the Ontario Place Forum for acts like Celine Dion and Andre

Phillipe Gagnon. I went on to Yuk Yuk's and also performing at private events.

PA: You're known for your uncanny impersonations; who is your favourite ?

MR: The CBS soap, The Young and the Restless star, Eric Braeden, has a character named Victor Newman. This has been a gold mine for 30 years! (I joked with him upon meeting him in-studio that I probably owed him money...He is still waiting) Bob Cole is popular, John Travolta etc... but I love doing the voice of Peyton Manning! (He's a god)

PA: At the peak of your career, you were dealt a harsh blow when you were diagnosed with cancer. How change your perspective on life ?

MR: Having your mortality challenged is life shattering. You realize that much of what you have deemed important, isn't. It forces you to re-evaluate your priorities, be a better Dad, be a better husband. My main focus now is trying the best way to "pay it forward."

I'm hoping to make some substantial moves in this regard in 2023. It has become a massive motivation for me.

PA: Who has influenced you most in your career?

MR: The biggest influence in my life without question, is my father. His influence as an educator, coach and mentor is literally unparalleled in my opinion. In terms of radio influence, it starts with Gerry Forbes, Our time starting at 1050 CHUM, but more intensely at CKFM 99.9. It’s a relationship that has lasted a lifetime, not only how to be a professional broadcaster but how to treat people. Bob McCown taught me the ins and outs of sports radio, but also how to be engaging without leaning on guests. You be the content. Ironically, this last point has become completely lost with today's sports radio. The current state of Sports Radio, I believe,

has been mismanaged due to a massive lack of understanding of the format. They have drowned in their own inexperience with radio as a medium. Sports radio hasn’t died, it has been murdered, slowly and clumsily...

PA: What would you tell 20 year old Mike Richards things you have learned along your 30+ year career?

MR: Stand up for yourself. You are worth something. It's good to be flexible, but don't let people walk all over you because you want to be the "good guy." That happened way too much….

PA: What does your perfect sports day look like?

MR: NCAA sports are big in this house, especially football and basketball. Always love getting together with my family for CFL games. We're Ticat fans. My first game in Hamilton was at Ivor Wynne Stadium... I've been a die hard fan ever since. And yes, gambling has seeped its way into my blood... but I'm a recreational player. I bet on everything.

PA: What's are your guilty pleasures not related to sports?

MR: Anything culinary. Love the food and travel. Anthony Bourdain was a legend. The Stanley Tucci series in Italy is heaven, I miss playing the drums. Double kick (Two bass drums) was orgasmic. I worshipped at the altar of Neil Peart. Travelling is something that is precious and not done enough, and Ireland is on the top of my list. I LOVE the island. Land of my people. Jesus was Irish. A lot of people don't know that...

Mike Richards can be reached on Twitter @rawmikerichards

MODERN ENTREPRENEUR

Maria Munoz

In conversation with modern entrepreneur Maria Munoz, owner of Mississauga’s Planted Souls.

What inspired you to become an entrepreneur and how long have you been one for?

From selling snow cones in my neighbourhood as a child, to opening my first houseplant shop, I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. I have always dreamed of having my own business and being able to do something that truly makes me want to go to work every day. I am happy to share that it has been a little over a year since Planted Souls has come a reality to me, and I feel so thankful for this first year as an entrepreneur.

What's been the most rewarding aspect of your entrepreneurial journey?

The most rewarding part of my journey has been watching how the community has responded to my idea. Opening a new business of course is always scary. You never really know how other people will react to your idea and if they will love it as much as you. However, being in the shop and watching everyone’s reactions when they walk in is very rewarding to me. I really enjoy seeing and hearing how coming into the shop just instantly makes peoples day better. This is exactly what I hoped to accomplish by bringing plants into others’ lives and seeing it in action is just so rewarding!

How would you describe Planted Souls in 10 words? Fun and unique, all in a one plant shopping experience.

How have you overcome obstacles?

I am a true believer that everything happens for a reason. Although things may not always make sense, and sometimes it may feel as if everything is heading in the wrong direction, I always remind myself that things are happening this way for a reason. This has helped me overcome those frustrating obstacles that I have had very little control over.

What words of wisdom do you have for other aspiring entrepreneurs?

Do not be afraid to ask for help and for what you want. I have met so many individuals throughout my journey who have been so eager and willing to help and point me in the right direction. I really believe that if I had not had the audacity to ask certain questions to certain individuals, Planted Souls would not be a reality for me yet.

plantedsouls.com

we bring good ideas to light.

We’ve built our design studio around the ability to explore, develop and follow ideas, wherever they lead.

wise idea.

by jay kana | photo by avery evans on unsplash

I’ve written about how to reduce your cell phone and internet bill, how to cool your spending in winter and how to save money around the house. With rumblings of an economic downturn on the horizon, prices of almost everything increasing, corporate shenanigans being a regular occurrence, here are 10 sensible and practical ways to shave your spending.

TRANSFORM YOUR SAVINGS VIA AUTOBOTS

No, Optimus Prime won’t help you save money but you can automate your savings account contributions. Pick a sustainable amount and set up your account to transfer that money weekly/bi-weekly straight to a savings account.

SLICE YOUR SUBSCRIPTIONS

Streaming services do have a place in most households, however having one of each should be reexamined to determine your actual needs. Same applies for a gym membership if you seldom go. Consider investing in a few pieces of equipment you can use at home.

FLATTEN YOUR FINANCIAL FEES

Do you really need that high interest credit card that comes with a pricey year fee? Some might but if you’re unsure, check out other credit card offerings with lower interest rates. Take a peek at your banking fees and see if changing your account type can save you some money. Banking fees are borderline criminal to begin with so any savings you can realistically achieve is thoroughly worth it.

CUT THE CORD

Unless there’s a dire need for cable television in your home, sharpen your proverbial scissors and cut that expense. Nearly everything that’s on cable tv can be streamed or found on social media.

BATCH PLEASE

Cooking for a week at a time, also known as batch cooking is a great way to save money as you’re buying in bulk and it also saves time. Additionally, it reduces potential wasted food as it’s all prepared at the same time. Bonus points for it reducing decision anxiety and dramatically lowers the chances of “I don’t feel like cooking, let’s order in.”

POWER POINTS

If you’ve got a plethora of reward points that can be cashed in for git cards, redeem those

and transform them into cash. From gas stations, grocery stores, retail shops and several others, there could be real money waiting for you that’s only a few clicks away.

HANG IN THERE

Running a dryer is one of the most expensive uses of power in your home. To wring out the most amount of savings, invest in a drying rack and go old-school. Bonus points in the winter as it’ll add some moisture to the dry air.

IT’S NOT RUDE TO POINT

The majority of retailers offer some type of reward points system. You’re spending money there anyway, so why not start accumulating some money as you spend. Gas stations and grocery stores are known for this, but also consider switching/adding places where you shop to stretch your hard-earned dollars.

POP THE QUESTION

If you don’t ask, you don’t get. Fire up that rarely used feature on your smartphone (the phone part) and call up every company you pay and ask them how to reduce your bill. Play the longevity/ loyalty card, ask about a lower package/plan, and most important of all, don’t be a sullen jerk about it. Be polite, be courteous and it’s a conversation, not a fight or attack. I encourage everyone to shop around once every 3 months to see if there’s savings worth moving companies for. From insurance to telecommunications to credit cards to your gym membership and everything in-between. Sometimes you’re stuck with one provider (Region of Peel’s water bill) but for nearly everything else, a bit of time today can save you money tomorrow.

DO YOU HAVE ANY GREAT COUPONS?

Of course you do! All you have to do is look. There’s absolutely no shame in couponing. Sure, it was seen as cheap previously but if I can save money on something I’m buying anyway and use that saved money toward something I want (instead of need, say, a new guitar…) then I’m all in. Check their websites, social media pages, deal finding websites and if you’re on a mailing list, they might pop in there as well.

What are your tips and techniques for saving money?

P i t c h C l a s s D i g i t a l ™ i s a v i r t u a l , s e l f d i r e c t e d c o u r s e f o r t h e D I Y e r U n l o c k f u l l a c c e s s t o a l l t h e t r a i n i n g v i d e o s a n d a c t i v i t i e s s o y o u c a n w o r k a t y o u r o w n p a c e w h i l e a c c e s s i n g t h e t o o l s y o u n e e d t o c r e a t e a n d e x e c u t e y o u r o w n m e d i a s t r a t e g y t h r o u g h o u r e x c l u s i v e

E M P O W E R I N G & E D U C A T I N G E N T R E P R E N E U R S T O F I N D T H E I R V O I C E I N T H E M E D I A

enjoy the

holiday season in port credit

by corrie harding-keizs

One of the best times of the year has arrived in the streets of Port Credit. It takes only one look at the beautifully decorated houses and yards or a walk through the community to notice that the holiday season is in full swing. Port Credit residents are caught up in the holiday spirit and they can be seen shopping for presents for their loved ones, decorating their homes or baking holiday cookies. What else the Port Credit community is up to to make the days around Christmas and the holidays feel very special can be found below.

Christmas At The Port Credit Light House

The most valuable historic monument and iconic symbol of the Port Credit community, the Light House at Lakeshore Road, becomes the centerpiece of attention during the holidays as well. The traditional Port Credit Light House gathering in early December is one of the earliest events that announce the holiday season is coming. Every year, people come together and pursue activities such as charity work, taking photos with Santa, carving demons and mural paintings while they enjoy the scenic views of the beautiful ice sculptures, Christmas decorations and lights. It is a great start into the holiday season for many Port Credit families and residents.

'Twas the Bite Before Christmas

The holidays are the perfect occasion to give back to society, and Port Credit residents, already known as a caring and close-knit community, show year in and year out, how much they are committed to the cause by organizing numerous charities. One that especially stands out is 'Twas the Bite Before Christmas. Created 14 years ago through the effort of several compassionate Port Credit residents, this Christmas charity makes sure the less fortunate ones also get to feel the holiday spirit. The event takes place around mid-December every year resulting in dozens of food donations and thousands of dollars raised for the ones who need it the most.

Photos With Santa In Port Credit

One of the biggest highlights for kids around the world is to see and meet Santa, and eternalizing the moment with a photo will capture the valuable experience for a lifetime. Free photos with Santa are available every year in Port Credit for the little ones; and pets are allowed, too. The joy on the children's faces is truly the best Christmas gift you can ever get. Nothing says Christmas like Santa!

Caroling in The Park

It is hard to imagine the holiday season without Christmas carols, but luckily, we don’t have to. Caroling is a wellpreserved tradition worldwide, but in Port Credit, it is more of an attraction rather than just a plain tradition. Each year, carol singers, accompanied by the Salvation Army Band, come together at the Memorial Park to spark and spread the good holiday mood and entertain the masses. Everybody is welcome to join the crowd around the bonfire eating cookies and sipping cranberry punch while enjoying the magical atmosphere.

Besides offering a great time and plenty of opportunities to bond with family, friends and the community, all Port Credit holiday events and activities encourage non-perishable food donations and money contributions to help people in need. There is certainly a special presence during this magical time of the year that makes us feel special, fulfilled and more helpful than usual.

If you would like to find out more about other Port Credit events, contact us via corrieharding.com

DECANTING DIGEST: Wines to warm up to this winter

by steph wallcraft photo by element5 digital on unsplash

Some people know what they like and gravitate toward the same wines year-round. But if you’re anything like me, you find that as the weather outside gets frightful, you reach more often for buttery whites and richer reds. There’s something comforting about pouring, swirling, and sipping wine that you know will warm you from the inside out. To achieve this effect in white wines, look for those that have spent time in oak to impart toasted flavours. Chardonnays are the classic choice here, but it’s not unusual to find oak in Sauvignon blanc, Riesling, or other white varietals as well. In reds, you’ll want fullerbodied wines with less emphasis on fruit and more on bolder flavours like spice, leather, and chocolate. For this profile, varietals that grow well in hot climates fit the bill: think Shiraz, Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvignon as examples. Here are some less traditional examples of great winter wines that might surprise you with how well they’ll keep you cozy until the return of sunnier days.

Spanish reds vary in intensity. This one is medium-bodied and presents with a black cherry nose that’s typical of the Tempranillo grape, which makes up the majority of its blend. On the palate, though, it’s not the least bit fruity: black pepper, dark chocolate, and cinnamon all contribute to its warmer quality. This is a good choice for those seeking a winter wine that’s spicy but not heavy. Try it with a late-season grilling effort such as marinated flank steak.

Score: 7.5/10

2019 PRIEURÉ DE CÉNAC MALBEC

Cahors,

France | LCBO #12985 | $21.95

The Malbec grape has become so deeply associated with Argentina that some may forget it originated in the old world. The Cahors Appellation d'origine contrôlée in France requires that its wines be comprised of at least 70% Malbec to achieve its AOC designation, so if you love this grape then that’s where to focus your search. This fantastic example pours nearly opaque and coats the inside of the glass with its rich garnet colour, and a melange of licorice and dark fruits on the nose gives way to a woodsy medley of herbs and pine. We paired this with the steak and potato stew recipe you’ll find on the next pages, 70 & 71. Try it with this or other braised red meat dishes, or sip it with some dark chocolate to extract its fruitier undertones. This is drinking beautifully or will cellar for years; a phenomenal value.

Score: 9/10.

ROBERT OATLEY SIGNATURE SERIES CHARDONNAY 2020

Margaret River, WA, Australia

LCBO #350900 | $20.95

Australia’s Margaret River region is best known for producing stellar Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays. This example of the latter from one of the region’s most prominent wineries strikes a delightful balance between a rich base of vanilla and toasted coconut and fresh tropical notes of pineapple, lemon, and passionfruit that leap out of the glass. With enough acidity to cut through rich dishes, this pairs very well with braised chicken or even a spicy chicken curry. Score: 8/10.

STEAK & POTATO

STEW

by steph wallcraft

Few things create as warm a welcome as a rich and comforting stew after a long day of outdoor winter fun. This recipe simmers affordable cuts of beef with layered aromatics to create a rich and flavourful slow cooker stew that’s perfect for those cold winter nights. The key to success in slow cooking is to create as much flavour as you can before the long simmer begins. You can dump raw meats and vegetables into a slow cooker and they’ll be edible when the dish is done, but the finished product will be bland and tasteless. Caramelizing the onions, sautéing the vegetables, searing the meat, and deglazing the pan add extra steps up front, but the flavours they impart are worth the effort. To round out this meal, serve it with a green salad and some warm, crusty bread. Or, if you’d rather incorporate more veggies and make it a one-pot meal, add a couple of handfuls of sliced fresh green beans or frozen peas about 30 minutes before serving. We paired this with one of our warming winter wines, which you’ll find in this issue’s edition of Decanting Digest on page 68.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 medium sweet onions, sliced

• 1/2 to 1 c olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 2 stalks celery, sliced

• Small handful celery leaves, roughly chopped

• 1 large shallot, sliced

• 6 cups white or cremini mushrooms, quartered

• 2 lb stewing beef (or purchase blade or round roast and cut into cubes)

• 1/2 cup cornstarch

• 1 tsp thyme

• 1 russet potato

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce or tam ari

• 1/2 cup red wine

• 1 1L carton beef broth

• 1 bay leaf

• 3 Yukon gold or white potatoes

• Salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

(Prep 1 hr / Cook 8 hrs)

1. Pour enough olive oil into a large and deep sauté pan to coat the bottom of the pan, then set it over medium heat. To slice the onions, cut them in half from root to tip, peel off the outer skin and cut off the tops, then slice each half into thin strips from just shy of the root to tip. Cut off the roots to create the strips, then add them to the sauté pan. Season them with salt and pepper and stir them occasionally while they caramelize for roughly 30 minutes. When they’re done, they’ll be medium to dark brown, translucent, and very soft.

2. Meanwhile, prepare your other ingredients. Peel and slice the shallot into half-rounds slices, finely dice the garlic, wash and finely slice the celery stalks, and roughly chop the celery leaves; set these aside together in a separate bowl. Clean the mushrooms and cut them into quarters or thick slices, then set them aside in a separate bowl. Add the cornstarch to a bowl with the thyme and more salt and pepper, stir these ingredients together, then set them aside. Cut the beef into 1 to 2-inch cubes and set aside.

3. Once the onions are caramelized, pour them into the bowl of the slow cooker while leaving as much of the oil in the pan as you can. Return the pan to the heat and add the garlic, shallot, and celery. Sauté them for one to two minutes until they become fragrant and are beginning to brown and turn translucent, then add them to the slow cooker.

4. Return the pan to the heat and add enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the mushrooms to the pan season them generously with pepper (but not salt). Sauté them until browned on several sides, then add them to the slow cooker.

5. Again, return the pan to the heat and add enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Working in small batches, very lightly dredge each piece of beef in the cornstarch mixture and add to the pan. Sear the beef for roughly one minute on each side, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, until several sides of each piece are browned. Add each piece to the slow cooker as it’s ready; add more oil between batches if the pan becomes dry.

6. Once the final pieces of beef have been added to the slow cooker, remove the pan from the heat. Pour the wine into the pan while still hot and allow it to boil while scraping the bottom of the pan with a spatula to deglaze the pan and release any browning. Pour the wine deglazing into the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce or tamari, and bay leaf. Peel and dice the russet potato and add it to the slow cooker; this will fall apart as the stew cooks and help it to thicken. Stir the contents of the slow cooker to combine, then place the lid on it and set it to cook on its low setting for 8 hours (or, if you’re in a hurry, on the high setting for 4 hours).

7. One hour before the cook time is done, peel and dice the Yukon gold or white potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Add the diced potatoes to the slow cooker, replace the lid, and cook for the remaining time. Remove the bay leaf, then serve. Makes 10 to 12 servings.

I used the Hamilton Beach 6 Quart Programmable Defrost Slow Cooker. It comes with a temperature probe, flexible time and temperature options, and works well for frozen meat, as it defrosts first, then cooks it until done. Best of all, it’s dishwasher safe.

7 SOCIAL MEDIA

MEDIA STRATEGIES FOR 2023

by jay kana

AUTHENTICITY

While it’s been getting better in 2022, expect an increase in authenticity in 2023. Less filters, less polished and more “in the moment” types of posts are becoming popular. Keeping in flubs, imperfect backgrounds and other “real world” conditions helps relatability with the audience.

SHORTER VIDEOS

Attention spans keep shrinking so capturing the audiences attention has to be done in the first 3-5 seconds. Getting straight to the point brings first-time viewers in, creates a strong hook and will likely increase your community count. If you can cut a 60 second idea into a 30 second video, for example, you should see stronger metrics.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Increasing in popularity is showing viewers what’s really happening. Whether it’s a shortcut/hack for a process, what your setup looks like or a preview of what’s upcoming, behind the scenes posts will often captivate your community.

QUALITY & QUANTITY OVERLAP

Quality posts used to be the go-to strategy but now, it’s balanced with quantity. It’s a numbers game and to reduce analysis-paralysis, there’s far more accounts posting multiple times a day with “average” content (re-read my point on authenticity) opposed to a finely polished post. There’s space for both in 2023 and I’m leaning toward quantity as being the dominator.

MICRO > MACRO

Gone are the days of mega-influencers and in their place are micro-influencers/accounts. Yes, it’s a numbers game but more than community count, engagement metrics are now the key factor. I’m more likely to connect with someone who’s got 10,000 community members with authentic engagement opposed to 500,000 with obvious imitation followers/comments/likes. If you know, you know. And I know you know.

ASPIRATION VERSUS ATTAINABLE

This is a tricky one as they’re often blurred even though they shouldn’t be. Aspirational posts are often lavish and bathed in high-end, premium conditions giving the “you could do this” vibe. Attainable posts revolve around realistic and relatable conditions, giving the “you can do this” vibe.

LIVE BROADCASTS

Adding to the aforementioned authenticity point, expect to see a boost in live posts/broadcasts as it brings added realness to your community. Sharing your in-the-moment experiences, interacting with viewers, letting them into that part of your day all contributes to a stronger experience and likely, the right subscribers.

A new year brings new strategies to social media and for 2023, it’s going to be driven by authenticity, attainability, the ability to smartly connect. The four constants are that you should educate and or entertain, engage, and empower viewers. It’s how you deliver them that can set you apart.