Wishes On Main Street 2021

Wishes

2021 Holiday Season

ON MAIN STREET The Quinte West Holiday Magazine

Cover Artwork by Quinte West Artist Angela Smylie

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

From Cheyanne O'Driscoll Owner of CO' Marketing Thank you so much for downloading our magazine. Inside you'll find holiday articles and recipes from over 15 contributors. You'll also find a directory of over 50 local businesses with links to their social media and websites.

I'm a local marketer and a local shopper. I've lived in Trenton most of my life, moving here as a military brat when I was 5. I'm now a mom of three and we love shopping local, eating local and experiencing local.

My marketing clients are our small local businesses. I see first hand the incredible value they provide. And I'm passionate about promoting them in our local community.

If you are new to the area or wanting to know more about shopping local here in Quinte West you have come to the right place!

I have been honoured by the support from local businesses and the community in helping me put together the first annual Wishes on Main Street: The Quinte West Holiday Magazine. And I could not be more excited to share it with you.

Pour yourself a cup of hot chocolate or egg nog, settle in and get ready to explore everything Quinte West has to offer duing the holidays.

Throughout the Magazine you can Click to Open Links.

Be sure to select 'in a new page' so you don't lose your spot!

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

Cheyanne

1

Table of Contents 03

31

Our Article & Recipe Contributors

Holiday Recipes

08

41

Riverside Music's Top 10 Christmas Songs

QW Public Library Holiday Books for Kids

10

44

Quinte West Holidays Past

Local Holiday Gift Ideas

15

47

Holiday How Tos

Quinte West Small Businesss Directory

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

2

Contributors

ARTICLES Jason Wryghte Owner & Teacher at Riverside Music Riverside Music is a community centre, teaching studio and retail store. Find Jason's list of his favourite Christmas songs on page 8.

Trent Port Historical Society Historian Connie Beal of the Trent Port Historical Society shares 9 pictures and captions covering a century of Christmas in Trenton from 1900-1995. Find them on page 9.

Anna Siwakotti Owner Fearless Wellness Centre Fearless Wellness Centre is a holistic health centre that offers a wide variety of services for families including reflexology. Anna shares how to do simple reflexology at home on page 16.

3

Contributors

ARTICLES Taylor Russett Owner The Grind & Vine The Grind & Vine is a popular cafe in downtown Trenton. It's the spot to grab a coffee and croissant or treat yourself to a glass of local wine with a charcuterie board. Taylor shares his how to for holiday charcuterie on page 18.

Marcy Amodeo Owner Swept Away Clean Swept Away Clean offers experienced and friendly housekeeping and home organizational services.

Marcy has included tips to keep your home tidy and clean during the holidays on page 26.

Quinte West Public Library Children's Services Coordinator of the Quinte West Public Library Vanessa Pritchard provides a list of 10 Holiday Books for Kids on page 41.

4

Contributors

RECIPES Emilie Leneveu Provincial Liberal Candidate Emilie is the Bay of Quinte 2022 Ontario Liberal Candidate and a Bay of Quinte and Canadian Top 30 Under 30. On page 32 she shares her grandmother's recipe for pumpkin cheesecake.

Orlena Cain Radio Host & Yoga Instructor Orlena is a morning show co-host on Mix 97 FM, yoga instructor, TV host, narrator, speaker coach, and author. Her recipe for Kartoffelpuffer (German potato pancakes) can be found on page 33.

Marylou Frost Real Estate Sales Representative Marylou is a Real Estate Sales Representative with the Exit Realty Group in Trenton as well as dedicated community volunteer. She's shared her recipe for christmas cakes on page 34.

5

Contributors

RECIPES Marie-Rose Larocque Manager K8 Rentals, Motel 6 & 10 Fitness Marie-Rose is the manager of several local businesses including Motel 6, K8 Rentals and 10 Fitness and a military spouse. On page 35 she shares her recipe for shortbread cookies.

Jen Parsons Owner Parsons Café & Catering Jen is one of the owners of Parsons Café & Catering.

Parsons is a family-owned restaurant serving breakfast and lunch daily. Jen's recipe for Gingerbread Cake is on page 36.

Gloria Hackett Principal Algonquin And Lakeshore Catholic District School Board Gloria is the principal of St Peter Catholic School as well as an active community volunteer. She’s shared a favourite Newfoundland holiday treat, Snowballs on page 38.

6

Contributors

RECIPES Raul DeBorja Owner & Chef of The Riverbrake Cafe The Riverbrake Cafe is open for breakfast and lunch with different lunch specials each day. They also provide catering service for all occasions. Raul shares his recipe for Roasted Red Pepper Soup on page 39.

Joan Larocque Owner Laroque Boutique Larocque Boutique is a new store in town that offers crystal lighting, home decor and gift ideas at friendly prices. Joan has shared a recipe for a family favourite, Lemon Squares on page 40.

Angela Smylie Artist Angela Smylie Art Angela is a local artist. Her work in acrylics can be found on display and for purchase at these 4 walls in downtown Trenton. Many of her works feature local scenes around the Bay of Quinte including the one of downtown Trenton featured on our cover.

7

Riverside Music's Top 10 Christmas Songs 10 soulful holiday songs shared by Riverside Music owner Jason Wryghte.

Click here to listen to the Riverside Music Top 10 Holiday Songs List on Spotify while you read!

What Child is This?

O Holy Night Nuttin' for Christmas God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen Silent Night Mary Did You Know?

Mele Kalikimaka Welcome to our World Bethlehem Morning I’ll be Home for Christmas

Jason Wryghte Owner & Teacher at Riverside Music

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

8

Quinte West Holidays Past Connie Beal from the Trent Port Historical Society shares nine photos covering a century of Christmas in Trenton.

Ranging from 1900- 1995 these photos are a festive blast from the past (keep an eye out for the old Biway bag).

At Top of Page: A group of young majorettes in the 1986 Trenton Santa Claus Parade cross the old swing bridge. @COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

Above: 1959 Toy shelves at McPherson's.

9

Above: December 22, 1923. Mr. William H. Ireland Jr. stands in front of his Dundas St. West grocery store. Christmas turkeys,

Above: Christmas rush at the Post office in 1957.

oranges and cranberries were advertised for sale. Mr. Ireland served four years as Trenton's mayor from 1916-1920. In 1943 a nine acre site for a future hospital was purchased and William Ireland became the first chairman of the newly formed Hospital Board.

Right: In 1995 Santa stops by the Post Office to pick up his mail.

QUINTE WEST HISTORY

Christmas Day 1900 The family of Rev. W. Wilkins of St. Andrew's Church on Marmora Street. The men of the family pull the sleigh for their mother and sisters (with the exception of little brother who hitches a ride).

Right: Making gingerbread houses at College Street School in 1991.

Left: Students at Prince Charles School presented items to the Salvation Army for the 1991 annual Christmas Sharing program. The students held a raffle to raise the money.

Right: The Wesleyan Church Living Christmas Tree in 1995.

Be sure to like and follow the Trent Port Historical Society on Facebook.

They are constantly sharing fascinating post about the history of Trenton and Quinte West.

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

11

going to see the lights and train at the park downtown. driving around town on Christmas Eve with my family, with hot chocolate and popcorn seeing all the Christmas lights and displays. There is a crazy house with the most lights I've ever seen on Nicholas Street in Trenton.

Erik getting to go around and look at everyone's beautiful decorations, going to see the singing lights and donating to a children's wish foundation.

MY FAVOURITE PART OF THE HOLIDAYS IN QUINTE WEST IS..

Kimmy

Ellie shopping at the stores for presents for my family, decorating the Christmas tree and making gingerbread houses.

Jacob

spending time with my family and going for a winter walk in Hanna Park.

Evie

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

12

Community Event Listings FIND OUT WHATS HAPPENING The Quinte West Chamber of Commerce and the Trenton DBIA are two amazing local organizations that put on lots of events focused on our small businesses. Follow them on their social media to be in the know!

KEEP UP TO DATE ON EVENTS The City of Quinte West organizes multiple Christmas events every year including the lights in Fraser Park and the brand new Holiday Market in Centenial Park. Check out their website and follow them on social for updates.

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

13

CHRISTMAS ISN'T A SEASON. IT'S A FEELING. Edna Ferber

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

14

holiday how tos Holiday tips and tricks from local Quinte West experts.

Fearless Wellness Centre

How To Bring Calm into Your Holidays Going through the holidays well supported both physically and emotionally is very important.

The holiday season is one filled with so much joy and excitement. Holiday baking, a wonderful holiday dinner, setting out Christmas cookies for Santa. All of the ways you and your family make memories through

I wanted to share with you

the holidays. Having the

one way you could spend

chance to spend time with

some time with your loved

your loved ones is what the

ones this year by showing

holidays are all about. Being

you a very basic reflexology

able to do something for

technique. This is

them, a service to them, to

something you can do for

show them you care is a

the babies in your family to

priceless gift.

your grandparents.

16

Reflexology is a focused pressure technique that is based on the premise that there are reflexes on the bottoms of your feet that correspond to and are relative to other parts of your entire body.

Anna Siwakotti

A simple reflexology point that can be used with your loved ones is the solar plexus point.

This point brings on relaxation, helps remove stress and can bring on a sense of calm.

Going through the holidays well supported both physically and emotionally is very important. We want you to know we are always here to support you and your family.

Simply press into the point and up towards the toes using your thumb or finger. Start off with

Happy Holidays, Anna and the Fearless Team

gentle pressure and increase if more pressure is desired.

Another easy and gentle technique you can use is to massage in little clockwise circles all over the bottom of the foot.

You now know how to do

Anna Siwakotti

reflexology!

Owner Fearless Wellness Centre

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

17

How to Make the Perfect Holiday Charcuterie Board Taylor Russett of the Grind & Vine guides us, step by step, through his process of creating a decadent holiday charcuterie board.

YOUR GUESTS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON ARE GOING TO RUN, NOT WALK TO THIS GORGEOUS AND FESTIVE HOLIDAY CHARCUTERIE BOARD.

Charcuterie boards are the perfect appetizer for holiday parties, New Year’s celebrations, or for a quiet night at home with some wine. Loaded with cheese, meat, crackers, fruit, and nuts, the flavors are bright, decadent, and classic to the season.

The Grind and Vine is known for their decadent charcuterie boards and that’s why this holiday season we want to teach you how to create beautiful boards at home. We will guide you through all of the ingredients you need to make a board for the holidays and how to assemble it. You can keep your fridge stocked with this list all season long so you’re prepared for any unexpected guests or last minute get togethers. It’s a flexible recipe you can make for two or 20 people!

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

19

Charcuterie (pronounced “shahrku-tuh-ree”) or as the cool kids call it Char-coochie board.

It is truly a culinary art to make, as it is all about beautiful presentation and refined flavors.

What is a charcuterie board?

Charcuterie (pronounced “shahr-kutuh-ree”) or as the cool kids call it Charcoochie board. It is truly a culinary art to make, as it is all about beautiful presentation and refined flavors. It’s a French word for cured meats, such as bacon, salami, and prosciutto.

Nowadays, the word is associated with assembling meat products together with other accompaniments, such as dried fruits, nuts, and cheeses.

A winter charcuterie board celebrates the season with grand displays of seasonal and warming ingredients.

There are a few elements you need to make a small or large board that showcases the flavors of the holidays and winter weather.

20

Elements you need to create the best holiday charcuterie.

Use any or all of these elements in your holiday charcuterie platter:

CRACKERS, BREAD AND NUTS A variety of crackers and/or fresh bread are necessary on your winter charcuterie.

Use them to hold your soft and spreadable cheeses or top them with meat, fruit, or a slice of hard cheese. You can use a variety of store bought crackers from Breton to Artisanal Crackers.

Nuts to use: Hazelnuts drizzled with honey Almonds Pistachios Almonds Cashews

CHARCUTERIE Always include salty and savory charcuterie meats on your cheese board. Thin slices of prosciutto, salami, or soppressata are easy to grab and pair perfectly with the creamy cheese and crackers.

Play around with the presentation.

I like to create rosettes and pretty folds with the slices of meat so they not only look amazing but are easy to grab.

Feel free to buy as much meat as you like.

You can splurge on a few different kinds or just get one simple choice that’s loved by all.

Calabrese Salami Prosciutto Truffle Salami

21

How To: Holiday Charcuterie Board

CHEESES Not sure how much cheese to buy? Aim to serve 2 to 3 ounces of cheese per person. Pick a few high-quality hard and soft cheeses from your local deli.

Empire Cheddar Cheese: delicate and savory Hawes Wensleydale Cranberry: crumbly and sweet Double Cream Brie: creamy and savory

EXTRAS This is the fun part! These extras will fill your board with plenty of colors, flavors, and seasonal flare. You can use a variety of fresh or dried fruit, pickled things, and fresh herbs. You can also add decor like sprigs of holly, mistletoe, Christmas ornaments, or even twinkly lights.

Fruit and Berries: Grapes Blueberries Tangerines Apples Pomegranate Pears Persimmons

Pickled things: Olives Herbs: Rosemary Thyme

22

HOW TO ASSEMBLE YOUR CHARCUTERIE BOARD Start by grabbing your best wood board, marble slab, or a serving plate. Gather any small bowls or ramekins, then prepare some cutlery like cheese knives, forks, and spoons.

1 2 3 4 5

FOLLOW THESE STEPS TO ARRANGE YOUR HOLIDAY CHARCUTERIE BOARD: Add the cheese: All of your cheeses will take up a corner of the platter or board. This makes it easier for your guests to slice or cut. You can even pre-slice the harder cheeses so they’re easy to grab.

Add the meats: Wrap or fold the slices of meat. As the meat is one of the more popular choices, place them closer to the edges of the board.

Add pickled things: Pour any olives or cornichons into small bowls. If you’re worried about fingers dipping in and out of the bowls, go ahead and serve them with a fork or spoon.

Add fresh fruit: Slice the apples and peel the tangerines, then place them on the board. It always looks nice to layer the slices or sections on top of each other. Keep the grapes on the vine and layer them on the board.

Add the crackers: Spread the different types of crackers around the board so each variety is together. This way, no matter where your guests are standing, they can grab a cracker and layer it with a slice of cheese.

6

Finish and serve: Complete the holiday board with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds, fresh herbs, more grapes, and blueberries. These will help fill in empty space and add color.

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

23

TIPS AND TRICKS These helpful tips will help you create and serve the best holiday charcuterie:

Make it Ahead of Time Assemble your board without the crackers and nuts a few hours before guests arrive. Wrap it in plastic and keep it in the fridge. Remove the board 30 minutes before serving so the cheese has time to come down to room temperature.

Keep it Budget-Friendly You don’t need to go all out to make the best holiday cheese and meat board. Stick to your budget and fill it with just a handful of ingredients you can find at your local grocery store. Just buy multiples of the same ingredients to fill it out.

Make it Your Own Don’t feel like you need to use every ingredient on this list. Only use the stuff you and your guests love! This will help you create the charcuterie of your dreams without anything going to waste.

Taylor Russett Owner The Grind & Vine

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

24

HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME CLEAN & TIDY OVER THE HOLIDAYS

by Swept Away Clean

The holidays are fast approaching and that means guests, decorations, and gifts to make space for! Never fear, Swept Away Clean is here, with some housekeeping tips to keep you clean and organized for the holidays!

Clean as You Go

Clean up as soon as you are done with something. Easier said than done am I right? However, if you don't let the mess pile up it saves a ton of work and will have you feeling warm and fuzzy all season long when you see a mess free home.

1

Prioritize Your Focus

Declutter and organize the main rooms and rooms guests will be staying in. Get rid of junk, find homes for everything, and put things back after using it. If you’re in a rush, grab some of Amazon boxes, toss everything in it and store it away from eyesight. (You can go through these later, our little secret.)

2

Keep up with Dust

Whether your choice of weapon is microfiber duster or an old sock, attack dust from main surfaces when you see it. Don’t forget light fixtures and fans, baseboards, light switches and outlets, and around doors.

3

Keep your Kitchen Cookie Ready

Sweep & Vacuum Daily

Make a habit of getting dishes sorted at the end of the day, whether it’s handwashing a sink full or unloading the dishwasher. Give surfaces a quick wipe down daily. Having a sparkling kitchen makes it easy to prepare those last minute holiday goodies!

4

Especially important if you have a full household or pets. Don't forget to look up! Cobwebs tend to collect around light fixtures, corners of the walls and ceilings. Use your broom to sweep them away or the wand attachment of your vacuum to suck them up if you can reach.

5

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

25

6

Do a load of laundry each week or more often if necessary.

Don’t let your baskets overflow. Do your folding while you’re watching your favorite show or holiday movie.

Wash, Dry, Fold, Repeat!

7

Cat litters should be cleaned, deodorizer and swept around every 1-2 days. Plug in a deodorizer or air purifier near your cat litter box and a kitty litter trapping mat to help stray litter.

Have a designated feeding station for your pets as well as a basket for toys and tidy these areas up daily.

Keep up After Pets

8

Wipe down surfaces like sinks, tubs and toilets every 1-2 days..

To make it easier, after your shower, do a quick tidy up, a squeegee is great for this. Dirty clothes and towels go in the hamper and hang up towels neatly after use. Pro tip: close your shower curtains to quickly hide a mess. 😉

Keep your Bathroom Clean

9

Clean windows and mirrors with a bit of Windex or vinegar!

Clean mirrors and windows make all the difference in a room.

Let in the Light

10

A house that smells good feels cleaner. I personally love a good Scentsy warmer, but there are loads of other options out there from scented candles, beads, oils, room sprays, diffusers and more. Pick out a system that's easy for you and smells great.

Add Air Fresheners

Finally, if you just don't have time, don't know where to start or would rather relax during the holidays you can always hire a housekeeper to help you stay ahead of the game!

Happy Holidays from Swept Away Clean!

Marcy Amodeo Owner Swept Away Clean

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

26

How To

Find the Perfect Holiday Decor

By Cheyanne O'Driscoll

From home decor stores to holiday workshops and local markets & makers, you can find everything you need to bring festive cheer to your home while supporting our local businesses.

If you’re like me and you start dreaming of decorating for the holidays the moment the kids head back to school in the fall you NEED to head to downtown Trenton.

Each are unique stores with Wish etc. specializing in home decor and floral arrangements and Wish Home Accents being a great place to source the perfect furniture for your space.

Be sure to check out both.

Wish etc. at 43 Front Street is open Monday-Friday 9:30-5 & Saturday 10-4.

Wish Home Accents at 27 Elgin Street is open Monday-Friday 10-5 & Saturday 10-4 and does a weekly live shop on their social media!

We have not one but two amazing local businesses filled with gorgeous holiday decor in every colour palette and holiday theme.

Oddly enough they are both named Wish and located almost directly across from each other.

HOLIDAY DECOR AT WISH ETC.

HOLIDAY DECOR AT WISH ETC.

Merry Bright Local

I want all the things.

ALL the things.

Cheyanne O'Driscoll

Holiday Workshops Looking for a fun event that has you walking away with handmade holiday decor for your home? We’ve also got wreath and centerpiece workshops hosted by local businesses that you can join in on. An evening to slow down and immerse yourself in some

HOLIDAY DECOR AT WISH HOME ACCENTS

Handmade Crafts from Holiday Markets & Local Makers Consider yourself pinterest challenged? Check out the fun and creative holiday ornaments, decor and gifts offered by our local makers at our holiday markets.

guided DIY is the perfect antidote to the holiday hustle.

Some even include wine 😉.

Merry Merry Market (Belleville) Saturday November 20th 10-5 Click here to learn more.

County Emporium Wreath Making Workshop November 19th at 6pm Click here to learn more.

Timberhouse Resort Holiday Market (Brighton) November 27th-28th 9-3 Click here to learn more.

these 4 walls Christmas Centrepiece Workshop December 12th at 8pm Click here to learn more.

Quinte West Holiday Market (Centennial Park in Trenton) Saturdays & Sundays Dec 3-19 Click here to learn more.

Fawn over Market Holiday Market (Carrying Place) Saturday December 4th 11-3 Click here to learn more.

29

We are better throughout the year for having in spirit, become a child again at Christmastime.

Laura Ingalls Wilder

Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Jen Parsons Owner-Parsons Café & Catering Recipe on Page 36

holiday recipes

Emilie Leneveu

Pumpkin Cheesecake INGREDIENTS

9 inch cookie/cracker crumb base of your choosing half cup pumpkin 16 ounces of softened cream cheese half cup white sugar 2 eggs half teaspoon vanilla extract inch of gloves and ground nutmeg whipped cream NOTES

Here is a Christmas recipe my grandmother bakes every year, hope it is enjoyed by many: pumpkin cheesecake :) @COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

Provincial Liberal Candidate

DIRECTION

1

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Combine cream cheese, sugar and vanilla in a big bowl.

Beat until smooth. Blend in eggs one at a time. Remove 1 cup of batter and spread into

2 3

bottom of crust and set it aside.

Add pumpkin, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg to the remaining batter and stir gently until well blended. Carefully spread over the batter in the crust.

Bake in preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until center is almost set. Allow to cool, then refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight. Top with whipped cream.

32

Orlena Cain

Kartoffelpuffer German Potato Pancakes Prep time: 15 min

Radio Host & Yoga Instructor

Bake time: 10 min Total time: 15 min

INGREDIENTS

2 1/2 pounds starchy potatoes peeled and very finely grated (RAW) NOTE: I use the side that makes it almost like applesauce just like Oma did.

1 small yellow onion, very finely grated 2 large eggs 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or more if needed) 1 teaspoon sea salt neutral-tasting oil for frying

1

DIRECTION Thoroughly wring out the liquid in the grated potatoes by placing them in a colander and squeezing them with your hands or by placing them in a clean dish towel and

2

wringing out the liquid.

Place the drained grated potatoes in a medium-sized bowl with the grated onion, eggs, flour and salt and use your hands to work it into a tacky mixture. Add a little more flour if needed. Do no let the mixture sit for long before using it, use it

3

immediately.

Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and place 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the mixture (depending on size preference) in the hot pan and flatten into pancakes with the back of a spoon. Fry on both sides for 3-5 minutes until the Kartoffelpuffer are golden. Place them briefly on paper towels.

NOTES

Serve immediately while hot with applesauce, maple syrup, fruit compote or powdered sugar.

For a savory version serve with herbed yogurt, quark or creme fraiche or with meat and gravy as part of a meal. @COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

33

Marylou Frost

Real Estate Sales Rep with Exit Realty

Christmas Cakes INGREDIENTS

First Mixture: 2 Cups Raisins 2 Cups currants 2 cups white sugar 2 cups cold water 2 tsps cinnamon 3 tblsp margarine 1 tsp salt Second Mixture: 1 lb mixed fruit (2 cups) 1/2 lb walnuts - chopped 1/2 lb red and green cherries chopped 1/2 lb dates chopped 1 1/2 tsp baking soda dissolved in 2 tsps vanilla 3 cups all purpose flour @COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

DIRECTION

1 2 3

Boil first mixture for 5 minutes and let cool.

Add fruit and flour mixture to first mixture once it's fully cooled and mix thoroughly.

I bake in loaf pans and bake at 250 degrees F for 3 - 4 hours.

NOTES

This recipe is amazing- when I had my canteen on the base- I made this every year and sold them by the slice and then by the cake! One year I made over 40 Christmas Cakes!

34

Marie-Rose Larocque

Shortbread Cookies Manager K8 Rentals, Motel 6 & 10 Fitness

INGREDIENTS

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature 1/2 cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups flour 1/4 teaspoon salt

DIRECTION

1 2 3

In a bowl whisk the flour with the salt. In another bowl cream the butter for about one minute, add sugar and beat until smooth (about two minutes), stir in vanilla.

Gently stir in flour, mix until just incorporated. Flatten and wrap in plastic wrap, chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes.

Cut out into shapes with cutters or roll into balls and press down with a fork. Place back in fridge to chill for about 10 minutes. Bake at 350f for 8-10 minutes until edges are golden brown

NOTES

When I became a mom I envisioned sending my kid to school with homemade baked goods at Christmas time just like my mom did with all her kids…. There was one problem I might just be the world's worst baker. Luckily these cookies are so simple that even I was able to make them, and they taste good too! I add a little red and green cookie icing (you can find at the grocery store) just to give them a little extra festive cheer. @COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

35

Jen Parsons

Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting INGREDIENTS

Frosting: 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature One 8-ounce package cream cheese, at room temperature 4 cups confectioners' sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Milk, as needed for thinning

DIRECTION

1

For the frosting: Combine the butter and cream cheese in a clean mixing bowl. Beat on high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Reduce the speed to low and gradually add the confectioner's' sugar, beating until combined. Add the vanilla and gradually increase the speed to high. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, adding up to 1 tablespoon of milk if needed so the frosting is spreadable.

Owner Parsons Café & Catering

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

36

INGREDIENTS

Cake: 2.5 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature 1 tablespoon ground ginger 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 3/4 cup molasses 1 cup boiling water

DIRECTION

1 2 3

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottom of each with a parchment paper round.

Stir together the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and salt in a large bowl and set aside.

Combine the brown sugar and butter in another large bowl and beat with an electric mixer on high speed, scraping down sides of bowl with a rubber spatula as needed, until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs and vanilla and beat

4

until combined.

Stir the molasses into the boiling water in a large spouted measuring cup. With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in 3 additions, alternating with the molasses mixture,

TO ASSEMBLE

Place one cake layer flat-side down on a cake stand or platter.

Top with about 3/4 cup of the frosting, spreading almost to the edges using an offset spatula.

Place the remaining cake layer on top, flat-side up. Spread the remaining frosting on the entire cake and smooth the top and sides with the offset spatula. Decorate the cake with festive sprinkles or little gingerbread cookies.

Refrigerate and enjoy! @COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

beginning and ending with the flour.

Scrape down the sides of the bowl, increase the speed to medium and beat until

5

smooth.

Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean, about 25 - 30 minutes. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans on a wire rack. Once cool, invert the cakes onto the rack, then peel off and discard the parchment.

37

Gloria Hackett

Principal of St Peter Catholic School

Newfoundland Snowballs INGREDIENTS

1/2 Cup butter 1 Cup evaporated milk 1 Cup granulated white sugar 1/4 Cup cocoa powder 2 Cups rolled oats 2 Cups desiccated coconut * plus more for rolling

DIRECTION

1

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

heat, melt the butter. Add the evaporated milk and sugar. Stir until combined and bring to a slow boil. Add cocoa powder and continue to stir and simmer until you have a syrup like consistency. This will probably take

2

NOTES

Traditional Newfoundland Snowballs, it wouldn't be a holiday without them. A no bake coconut chocolate treat that freezes great. Make them and freeze them for later.

In a medium sauce pan set over medium

about 5 minutes.

Remove from heat and leave to cool. Pour the chocolate mixture into a large mixing bowl. Pour in the oats and coconut and mix until combined. Scoop out the cookie dough with a tablespoon and form them into little balls. Continue until you have

3

used all the dough.

Pour extra coconut onto a large plate. Roll all the balls in the coconut. Place in an airtight container and put in the fridge to set for about an hour.

38

Raul DeBorja

Roasted Red Pepper Soup Owner & Chef The Riverbrake Cafe

INGREDIENTS

5 to 10 sweet red bell peppers 1 to 2 large Spanish onions Fresh garlic Butter Salt & Pepper Cayenne Pepper Oregano Basil Thyme Vegetable Stocks

DIRECTION

1

First remove all the seeds inside the peppers and place in the over for about 45 minutes at 350. Melt the butter in a large frying pan and saute the onions.

Add the fresh garlic (chopped up) salt & peppers, oregano, basil & thyme. Once cooked, turn it off and put aside.

2

Next transfer the red peppers in a large pot and turn the stove to medium heat. Add the vegetable stock & let it simmer. Then add the rest of the ingredients into the pot and let it simmer for another 25 minutes.

3

Once it’s done, turn it off and let it cool off to room temperature and slowly transfer to a blender, puree and it’s ready to serve.

NOTES

We do a variety of soups each day, our Roasted Red Pepper soup is always the one that is being requested the most. Here is a recipe with ingredients that can be adjusted depending on portion size. @COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

39

Joan Larocque

Owner Laroque Boutique

Lemon Squares INGREDIENTS

1 pk (7½ oz) sheriff lemon pie filling (sheriff is the best) ¾ cup all-purpose flour 2 tsp baking powder ¾ cup butter, room temperature ¾ cup unsalted soda crackers, finely crushed ¼ cup white sugar 1½ cups unsweetened flaked coconut

DIRECTION

1 2

directions. Remove from heat and cool.

In a bowl, mix flour and baking powder. Add butter until crumbs are formed. Add crushed soda crackers, sugar and coconut. Mix until well blended. Spread half of crumb mixture into a well-greased or parchment lined 9 inch square pan. Press mixture evenly to form a crust. Spread lemon filling evenly over crust and sprinkle remainder of crumb mixture

3 @COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

Prepare lemon pie filling as per package

over lemon filling.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool on rack prior to cutting into squares

40

Quinte West Public Library Holiday Books for Kids BEAR STAYS UP FOR CHRISTMAS

By Karma Wilson Bear's friends are determined to keep Bear awake for Christmas! So they wake Bear up and have him help them find a Christmas tree, bake cakes, hang up stockings, and sing Christmas songs. Bear stays up -- by discovering that giving is one of the best Christmas presents!

THE NOT VERY MERRY POUT-POUT FISH

By Deborah Diesen Mr. Fish is having a hard time finding the right presents for his friends, until he learns that the best gifts come from the heart.

PETE THE CAT SAVES CHRISTMAS

By James Dean When Santa falls ill and Christmas may have to be canceled, Pete the cat comes to the rescue.

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

41

THE CHRISTMAS PINE

By Julia Donaldson Deep in a snowy forest stands a little pine tree with a special destiny: when it grows up, it's going to be a fabulous Christmas tree!

PIG THE ELF

By Aaron Blabey Pig simply cannot wait for his presents - he's asked for a lot! - so he stays up all night . When Pig discovers that Santa didn't quite bring everything he asked for, he takes the jolly old elf to task.

DINO-CHRISTMAS

By Lisa Wheeler The dinosaurs enjoy a variety of Christmas activities, including decorating the town, holding a parade, and receiving gifts from Santa Claws.

THERE’S AN ELF IN YOUR BOOK

By Tom Fletcher This book invites the reader to take the Nice List Test, while avoiding mischievous Elf's naughty tricks, to prove Santa should bring Christmas presents to the reader.

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

42

PEPPERMINT POST

By Bruce Hale Twas the night before Christmas, when the North Pole's Peppermint Post Office is anything but quiet! Postmaster Buck and his crew of penguins can't rest until all of Santa's letters and gifts are sorted and on Santa's sleigh. But what happens when Buck discovers a lost letter after the reindeer already left the North Pole?

HOW DO DINOSAURS SAY HAPPY CHANUKAH?

By Jane Yolen Illustrations and rhyming text present some of the different ways a well-behaved dinosaur can celebrate the eight days and nights of Chanukah.

SNOW BUNNY’S CHRISTMAS WISH

By Rebecca Harry The only present Snow Bunny asks for Christmas is a friend, but when she is too late to mail her letter to Santa, she decides to take it to the North Pole herself--and the animals she helps along the way teach her about the gift of friendship.

CONTACT THE LIBRARY FOR MORE GREAT HOLIDAY READING SUGGESTIONS!

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

43

Wishes on Main Street

Local Gift Ideas

Ukulele Starter Kit

Printed Socks

Beer Glassware

Riverside Music's Ukulele Starter kit makes a great gift for kids. It comes with everything your little musician needs.

Celebrate the unique personality of the people in your lives with a fun printed sock from Sox it to Me.

Know a craft beer lover? Wild Card Brewery now offers branded beer glasses, a perfect gift idea.

$175

$ 9.99

$ 8.85

SHOP LOCAL When you spend your holiday dollars locally you are supporting our local community and economy.

Every time you spend money, you are casting a vote for the kind of world you want.

Anna Lappe

Chocolate Letters

Local Artwork

Men's Skincare Kit

A traditional Dutch treat, these chocolate letters make great stocking stuffers.

Hurry to Trenton Deli to grab yours, they sell out fast!

Perfect for the local fan, Angela Smylie's artwork features local scenes around Quinte West. Stop by these 4 walls to take one home.

The 'Fight Ready Kit' from Wish etc makes a great gift for the men in your life. Just add a bow and it's gift ready!

$2.49

$154

$ 29

FOLLOW FOR MORE LOCAL GIFT IDEAS During the holiday season I will be sharing more local gift ideas from our small businesses on Facebook and Instagram.

Christmas will always be as long as we stand heart to heart and hand in hand.

Dr. Seuss

quinte west SMALL BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Our Quinte West

Local Small Businesses CAFES, DINERS & BISTROS Grind & Vine 45 Front St Facebook | Instagram | Website Parsons Café & Catering 17 Frankford Cres Facebook | Instagram | Website Red’s Diner Facebook | Website

2223 Hamilton Rd

these 4 walls Facebook | Instagram Momma’s Diner Facebook Dapp’s Restaurant Facebook

22 Front St 425 Sidney St

ASIAN CUISINE

Riverbrake Cafe Facebook | Instagram Dougie’s Diner Facebook

Charcuterie from The Grind & Vine

282 Dundas St E 11 Front St 12 Carrying Place Rd

Trenton Sushi Facebook | Website

263 Dundas St E

Golden Wok Website

241 Dundas St E

SANDWICHES & WRAPS

Taishan Gardens Menu

Kick Canteen Facebook | Instagram

Thai Sushi Website

391 Dundas St W

Farmers Daughters Subs 1325 Old HWY 2 Facebook | Instagram | Website

Canton Menu

Trenton Deli & Bakery 469A Dundas St W Facebook | Instagram | Website

Gogi’s Korean Grill Facebook

Nova Deli Website

214 Front St 22 Front St 17477 Old HWY 2 W 178 Dundas St E

210 Front St

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

47

Wooden Christmas Train from Wish Home Accents

FLORAL, DECOR & ART

PIZZERIAS Goody’s Pizzeria ​ Facebook | Website

748 Old HWY 2

Jim’s Pizzeria​ Website

35 Front St

103A Dundas St W

Wish etc.

43 Front St Facebook | Instagram | Website Dahlia May Flower Farm 1226 Stockdale Rd Facebook | Instagram | Website

BAKERIES Wannamakers Facebook | Instagram

Blush Floral Facebook | Website

391 Dundas St

these 4 walls Facebook | Instagram

22 Front St

Campbell’s Orchards 1633 County Rd 3 CP Facebook | Instagram | Website

Wish Home Accents & Gifts 27 Elgin St Facebook | Instagram | Website

Rollin’ Oats 2 Dundas St W Facebook | Instagram | Website

Larocque Boutique Facebook

8 Trenton St

CASUAL DINING Tiger Chicken and Ribs Facebook | Website

68 Front St

Tomasso’s Italian Grille 35 Front St Facebook | Instagram | Website The Golden Valley 499 Dundas St W Facebook | Instagram | Website

MISC FOOD & DRINK Wild Card Brewery 38 Gotha St Facebook | Instagram | Website Golden Chicken and Ribs Facebook Berry’s Meat Market Facebook | Website

210 Front St

Gingerbread Cookies from Wannamakers

17 William St

Fawn over Market 22186 Loyalist Pkwy CP Facebook | Instagram | Website

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

48

HAIR & BEAUTY Bliss Day Spa 43 Front St Suite 200 Facebook | Instagram | Website Deeva Day Spa 2223 Hamilton Rd Facebook | Instagram | Website Women's Christmas Socks from Sox it to Me

RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT Pieces Board Game Cafe 22 Front St Facebook | Instagram | Website Riverside Music 16 Dundas St W Facebook | Instagram | Website Batawa Ski Hill 99 Ski Club Ln Batawa Facebook | Instagram | Website Ardens Music 51 Quinte St Facebook | Instagram | Website Centre Theatre 120 Dundas St W Facebook | Instagram | Website Old Church Theatre 940 Bonisteel Rd Facebook | Instagram | Website

Chanelle’s Eden Day Spa. 255 Glen Miller Rd Facebook | Instagram | Website

It’s your Body Day Spa Facebook | Website

211 Dundas St E

Simplicity House Spa 78 Cortland Cres Facebook | Instagram | Website Sally’s Hair Studio Facebook | Instagram

40 Dundas St W

Salon Eleven 44A Front St Facebook | Instagram | Website Fleet Street Barber 21 King St Facebook | Instagram | Website Doggie Detailing 391 Dundas St W Facebook | Instagram | Website

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES The Red Shark Website

48 Dundas St W

Vivacious Clothing & Spa 101 Dundas St W Facebook | Instagram | Website Sox it To Me Facebook | Website

103 Dundas St W

Off the Hook Boutique 35 Ontario St Facebook | Instagram | Website Studio B Facebook | Website

105 Dundas St W

Bruinix Jewellers LTD Facebook | Website

73B Dundas St W

Christmas Stacking Game from Pieces Boardgame Cafe

@COMARKETINGCONSULTANT

49

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Keep Up With Local!

Follow me on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with gift ideas from our small businesses, holiday events and all things local in Quinte West.

Facebook

Instagram