Fenelon Falls Celebrates the Season with
Christmas PASSPORT
76 King St West., P.O. Box 535
Bobcaygeon, ON K0M 1A0
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Covering the Kawartha Lakes Area
Publisher/Director/Manager
Max Miller
Editor Deb Crossen
Art Director
Max Miller
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City Hall pg. 4
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OVER THE BACK FENCE
In my years in journalism, I know the importance of hitting readers with the hard stuff, then leaving them with a “brightener”. So here goes.
I have written many times about the importance of community and the feeling of security here in the Kawarthas, Buckhorn in particular. Last week, that sense of security was given a poke when someone broke into our local Foodland.
The thief broke through the glass doors and ransacked the registers. Luckily, if I can say that, it was early in the morning when there were no staff at the store. But that’s not the point.
Shreek Patel, the owner of our Foodland, is one of the kindest men you could meet, and goes out of his way to support local organizations and causes. The staff are just as welcoming and helpful. So for this type of thing to happen to them is beyond my words.
I am asking that everyone in our community who usually drives elsewhere to do their grocery shopping comes to our Foodland to support Shreek and his staff. Now’s the time for the community to come together.
And now for your brightener. ‘Tis the season for holiday events and looking foward to Christmas with family and friends. There are so many events happening in our communities to help you get into the spirit, from this weekend’s Santa Day in Fenelon Falls to the Santa Claus parades throughout the Kawartha Lakes, craft shows, tree festivals and much more.
As you go about your holiday shopping, please remember ocal food banks, toy drives or charitable organizations. Especially at this time, they need our support. As a great gift idea, make a donation to a local charity on behalf of a loved one. After all, do they really need another sweater?
Until next time, be safe, stay well and be kind.
editor@thepromoter.ca
Photo: The Promoter
City Hall
CKL ADOPTS 2026 BUDGET
At the Special Council meeting on November 25, 2025, Council deliberated the 2026 Budget as proposed by Mayor Doug Elmslie under Strong Mayor powers. The $472 million budget is comprised of four parts: Operating, Capital, Special Projects and WaterWastewater.
After reviewing motions from Council, Mayor Elmslie moved that the budget be reduced further, to 5.9% from the original proposed 6.75% (2.9% General Operations, 2% continued support for the dedicated capital levy and 1% for the special area rates of policing and Lindsay Transit). The general operations and dedicated tax levy translates to an average increase of $160 on a $267,000 average assessed property value. The impact of the area rate increases for policing and Lindsay transit are in addition to the $160 and will be confirmed once the OPP 2026 budget is known.
Mayor Elmslie said, “What we’ve done is in the best interests of our residents, especially in a challenging economy. I’m grateful to the Budget Committee for listening closely to feedback from the public and our community partners. I’m thankful to Council for their questions and priorities, and to staff for their collaboration through the Strong Mayor process. This has been a difficult year in many ways. We’ve weathered multiple winter storms, and are still dealing with the recovery costs of the March ice storm. We had an initial $13 million gap to close to be able to bring an affordable budget to the table. Today, we’ve added another $7.5 million in savings that staff will find through efficiencies in the Operating Budget. We’ve heard our residents loud and clear: this was the year to tighten up wherever we could. At the same time, we are maintaining commitments across strategic priorities from community safety to housing to recreation.”
With this budget, Kawartha Lakes is advancing several long-term goals:
• Continuing to build up Asset Management Reserve contribution ($21.1 million) so major projects can be funded while keeping taxes stable
• Addressing a backlog of deferred capital needs with projects totaling more than $126 million
• Reducing reliance on debt for State of Good Repair assets
• Investing in a sustainable and competitive workforce to carry out over 200 services and
Dr. Mark D. Black
advance strategic priorities
“Managing this $7.5 million budget pressure will be a challenge, and all departments will be working together to develop a plan to meet our targets,” said Sara Beukeboom, Director of Corporate Services. “As we continue to modernize the City’s systems, services, and operations, we’ll look for efficiencies across all business units. Our staff understand the importance of affordability. We’re taxpayers and community members too, and we support the Budget Committee and the Mayor for their commitment to this shared goal.”
Serving needs and preparing for growth
“This year involved a lot of important planning. Three major growth studies were completed in 2025, and they helped guide the 2026 budget. We focused on making sure the tax-supported Capital Budget is the right size, improving how we plan for repairs and service levels, and preparing for the growth we’re seeing now and expect in the future. The Water and Wastewater Capital Budget is larger than ever to make sure our systems can support that growth,” noted Dr. Adam Found, Manager of Capital Assets.
Focus on investments
More than $126 million in capital projects will renew the infrastructure connecting our communities, support local business, enable growth, and enhance quality of life.
Major road and bridge projects such as CKL Road 121 ($4.5 million), St. Patrick Street ($4.9 million), and the Colborne Street Bridge ($8 million) will ensure smoother, safer travel for residents and visitors.
The Emily-Omemee Arena Dressing Room and Lobby Renovations Project ($6.8 million), and revitalization of community spaces such as Ops, MacAlpine and Arbour Parks ($8.1 million total), will create better recreation and gathering places for people of all ages.
Other significant capital projects include:
• Salem Road Resurfacing, $1.1 million
• Colborne Street / William Street Intersection, $2.7 million
• Colborne Street / Lindsay Street Intersection, $2.7 million
• Mustang Drive Bridges, $1.2 million
• Lindsay-Ops Landfill Weigh Scales and Drop-Off Area, $4.6 million
• Paramedic Services Headquarters and Fleet Centre, $10.7 million
Changes to the Proposed Budget
• Patterson Road, ($123,000) and Cameron Road Bridge Design ($150,000) were removed and in their place Rodeo Drive ($188,000) and Lake Breeze Drive ($357,000) were added.
• King’s Wharf Rd from Sturgeon Lake Rd to Pigeon Lake Rd ($225K) will be pulverized.
• Taylor’s Rd will be deferred to 2027 for the advancement of Brunon Ave, Robinglade Ave, and Riverview Rd, for a difference of $29,000.
• Emily Forest Tract and Rest Area Project was deferred to a future year ($243,820) with the cost of the project being used to lower the pressure on the operating budget.
• In the Operating Budget, $25,000 was awarded to
Women’s
Next Steps
The Mayor has notified Council that he has shortened the original 10-day veto period to December 1, 2025 at 4:30pm. After that time, the budget will be final. An amended copy will be posted online by year end.
CKL HOUSING STRATEGY
Local leaders have unveiled the Deeply Affordable and Supportive Housing Strategy (DASH), a 10-year roadmap designed to confront a rapidly intensifying housing and homelessness crisis across Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County. Built on extensive data, community insights, and the region’s responsibilities under Ontario’s Housing Services Act, the strategy reveals issues far deeper and broader than rising rents alone.
“Housing is at the heart of quality of life in our region,” said Cheryl Faber, Kawartha Lakes Director of Human Services. “More people are struggling to keep a home, more families are feeling the impact of rising costs, and more community partners are stretched to respond. Housing is essential to health, well-being, and the strength of our community.”
Key findings
1. Affordability gap becomes a breaking point: The cost of local housing has far outpaced what many residents can afford. A one-bedroom unit averages $1,612, despite shelter allowances as low as $390 for those in receipt of Ontario Works. Full-time minimum-wage workers would need to spend more than 53% of their income on rent, which is well above the affordability benchmark. The report concludes: “the private market is already out of reach for half of renters in Kawartha Lakes.”
2. Inaction could triple homelessness: Without intervention, homelessness is projected to rise 243% in the next decade: from about 450 people today, to 1,545 people in the next ten years. The resulting strain on shelters, emergency services, and community resources would be severe. Without new investment, homelessness will more than triple, but targeted action can reverse the trend.
3. Seniors and homeowners are increasingly vulnerable: The housing crisis extends well beyond renters. In 2021, 52.5% of households in core housing need were homeowners, many of them seniors living on fixed incomes in aging homes they can no longer maintain. Seniors also account for 27.8% of the 2,496 households currently on the affordable housing waitlist.
4. Wait times stretch over a decade: Nearly 2,500 households are waiting for community housing, with some applicants in line since 2014 or earlier. About 70% are seeking bachelor or one-bedroom units, the types in shortest supply.
5. “Renovictions” erode housing stability: Rising use of “renovictions,” where tenants are displaced under the pretext of major renovations, threatens long-term affordability. Across Ontario, these eviction notices rose 300% between 2017 and
2021. One local resident summed up who is most affected: “All of us that are on set incomes… got evicted.”
A Regional Path Forward
The DASH is supported by a strengthened governance model shared between the City of Kawartha Lakes and the County of Haliburton, ensuring coordinated planning, oversight, and accountability across the region.
Faber emphasized that the Housing Strategy is grounded in conversations with residents, service providers, and partners living the reality of housing pressures daily. It outlines six priorities to guide actions:
• Expand deeply affordable and supportive housing
• Prevent homelessness and improve pathways to stability
• Strengthen community and supportive housing delivery
• Align municipal systems to enable housing delivery
• Strengthen governance for housing delivery
• Advocate for investment by other levels of government
“These priorities form a roadmap for action,” Faber said. “This plan sets the steps needed to reduce homelessness, expand deeply affordable housing, and support affordability across the region.”
“This plan gives us a clear path forward,” she added. “It builds the capacity needed for future housing infrastructure and strengthens our ability to deliver more housing tomorrow. Partnerships with provincial and federal governments, and with community providers, will be critical.”
The DASH gives Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton the direction needed to respond to today’s pressures, and the foundation to build a stronger, more stable housing system for the years ahead.
PARAMEDIC HONOURED
Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Darcy Caffin has been awarded the Governor General’s Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal and First Bar, recognizing three decades of outstanding service to the community.
Darcy was among 49 Ontario paramedics honoured for reaching major service milestones of 30, 40, or 50 years. The medals and bars were presented by Colonel Shane Elder, Deputy Commandant of the Canadian Forces College, on behalf of Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, at a formal ceremony on November 19.
Created in 1994 as part of the Canadian Honours System, the Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal recognizes paramedics who have demonstrated the highest standards of conduct, dedication, and professionalism. To qualify, recipients must complete at least 20 years of exemplary service, including a minimum of 10 years in frontline duties involving potential risk. Each additional decade of service is recognized with a bar to the medal; the First Bar signifies 30 years of service.
“Darcy’s unwavering dedication over three decades has made a real difference in our community,”
said Chief Sara Johnston. “He exemplifies the professionalism, compassion, and resilience that our service is built on.”
Darcy’s name appears on the official provincial list of 2025 Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal Bar recipients released by the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs (OAPC).
STARTER COMPANY PLUS FALL COHORT
The Small Business Centre in Kawartha Lakes is proud to welcome a new group of entrepreneurs into the Starter Company PLUS Fall 2025 Cohort. This exciting initiative supports aspiring and earlystage business owners from across the region as they launch and grow their companies, strengthening our local economy and building a more vibrant business community.
This fall’s cohort includes a diverse mix of industries and passions, showcasing the creativity and determination of local entrepreneurs. Participants include professionals in construction, bookkeeping, health and wellness, food services and more. Each entrepreneur brings unique ideas and skills that contribute to the economic and cultural growth of our community.
Through the Starter Company PLUS Program, participants receive personalized business training, one-on-one mentoring, networking opportunities, and access to a start-up grant of up to $5000. These resources are designed to help them refine their business plans, build confidence, and lay the foundation for long-term success. The program is delivered locally by Kawartha Lakes Small Business Centre in partnership with the Province of Ontario.
The program is part of Kawartha Lakes’ ongoing commitment to supporting small business development and fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Graduates of previous cohorts have gone on to open storefronts, expand their services, and make meaningful contributions to the local business
landscape.
“This program gave me the tools and confidence to grow my business the right way,” said Kevin Harper, of Harper Homes. “It’s amazing to be surrounded by other entrepreneurs who are just as passionate about making a difference.”
As these new participants begin their journey, the community is encouraged to follow their progress and support their ventures. Their success stories will be shared on Kawartha Lakes social media accounts and newsletters in the coming months.
Here are the participants for the Fall of 2025:
• Fiona Baird: KBS Group: Fiona is a Certified Professional Bookkeeper, she provides in-person and virtual personal and business services in Kawartha Lakes and across Canada. https:// kbsgroup.ca/
• Wade Bond: Cross Creek Contracting - Cross Creek Contracting is a local general contractor specializing in custom decks and framing, window and door installation, exterior siding and trim, and interior renovations and finishings. They provide Kawartha Lakes with affordable general contracting services for big and small jobs. 705341-5173
• Autumn Donnelly: Autumn Wood CreationsAutumn Wood Creations creates custom and original wood-burned art. Each piece is unique, drawn and burned entirely by hand. https:// autumnwoodcreations.ca/
• Bob Edwardson: Broken Dreams Motorcycle Garage - Broken Dreams Motorcycle Garage specializes in Harley Davidsons. They offer parts, service, repairs, and accessories in Kawartha Lakes. brokendreamsinc@outlook.com
• Brittany Goodfellow - Brittany is a certified doula and trained Social Worker. She blends compassionate perinatal care with professional insight into mental health, stress, trauma, and family dynamics. hello@brittanythedoula.com
• Dave Granic: 13 Contracting - 13 Contracting specializes in high-quality composite deck installations and interior renovations, delivering craftsmanship that elevates every space. They combine precision, durability, and design to bring your vision to life-inside and out. https:// Thirteencontracting.ca
• Ryan Kindree: Kindree Field Service - Kindree Field Service is a mobile heavy equipment repair business that quickly diagnoses and fixes complex mechanical and hydraulic faults. They specialize in keeping critical construction, forestry, and agricultural machinery up and running. https:// kfsltd.ca
• Holli Wilson: The Loaded Spud Potato Bar - The Loaded Spud Potato Bar offers customizable loaded baked potatoes with a variety of fresh toppings located at 233 Kent St Lindsay ON. Focused on quality, convenience, and community, they provide a fun and inclusive dining experience centred around their “Loaded with Kindness” initiative. crazy4sputds@outlook.com
PREPARE FOR WINTER IN CKL
Winter has arrived in Kawartha Lakes, bringing colder temperatures and the start of the festive season. As you prepare for the holidays, it’s also important to think ahead about winter storms and emergency readiness. A little preparation now can make all the difference when winter shows its unpredictable side.
“As we enter the winter season, preparation is one of our most effective tools for staying safe,” said Mayor Doug Elmslie. “By planning ahead, understanding the risks, and ensuring your household is ready for winter weather, you’re helping reduce strain on emergency services and contributing to a safer Kawartha Lakes for everyone.”
From creating emergency kits to staying informed about road conditions, a few small actions can have a big impact. By doing your part, you’re not just protecting your family – you’re supporting your neighbours and making our community stronger.
Emergency management in three simple steps:
1. Know the risks.
2. Make a plan.
3. Get an emergency kit.
Visit Ontario’s Emergency Management webpage to learn about the types of emergencies that may occur and what steps you can take to prepare your home and your family.
Preparing for winter storms
According to the Province of Ontario, winter storms kill more Canadians than tornadoes, thunderstorms, lightning, floods, and hurricanes combined. Prepare ahead of time using the following as a guideline:
• Build an emergency preparedness kit with essentials such as flashlights, water, non-perishable food, blankets, and warm clothing.
• Make sure you have a backup supply of important medications in case of any extended outages or travel disruptions.
• Prepare your home for cold weather. Options include insulating walls and attics, sealing doors and windows, installing storm windows, and shutting off or insulating outdoor water pipes.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected annually.
• Trim tree branches that could fall under the weight of snow or ice.
• Stock up on salt or traction aids to prevent slips and falls.
• Test your smoke alarm(s) and carbon monoxide detector(s) to make sure they are functioning properly.
Power outage and blackout preparation
Prepare in advance for potential outages by using the recommendations below:
• Create an emergency plan that considers medical devices, refrigerated medications, or mobility challenges.
• Keep your household’s emergency preparedness kit stocked to last at least three days.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for generators and ensure they are properly installed.
• Use battery-operated smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and test them regularly.
• Use surge-protecting power bars for electronics.
• Lower refrigerator and freezer temperatures before major storms to help protect your food supply.
• Keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full at all times, especially in the winter.
• Sign up for Outage Alerts through Hydro One to get notifications of current and planned outages for your area.
Snow Angels Canada
Snow Angels Canada is a community-based tool that connects neighbours who need help shovelling with volunteers who want to lend a hand. If you need support, or want to support someone else, visit www. snowangels.ca to learn more.
AWARDS HANDED OUT AT RMH
Ross Memorial Hospital celebrated our team members through our annual Long Service and Excellence Awards in the hospital cafeteria on November 19, 2025.
The awards celebrate Ross Memorial Hospital (RMH) employees and professional staff marking significant milestones at the hospital, along with individuals nominated by their peers in specific categories of excellence.
The 154 Long Service Award recipients this year are employees and professional staff who have worked at RMH for a minimum of 5 years, and up to 40 years.
The longest-tenured team member who was celebrated is Carolyn Jenkins, who has been with RMH for 40 years. Jenkins is a nurse who worked throughout RMH for the first 30 years of her career. Ten years ago, she applied for and earned an opportunity RMH made available at Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes
as a Behavioural Support Nurse. The position has been a perfect fit for Jenkins given her relationships and understanding of the hospital and the clientele it serves. Her role on the GAIN Community Team highlights the continuum of care in our community.
Carolyn said, ““Ross Memorial Hospital offers an environment where I can make a direct and meaningful impact on my community. Being part of a team that provides care, comfort and hope to patients and clients motivates me. I am especially thankful for the education and learning opportunities that have allowed me to grow as a clinician. Working here gives me the opportunity to continue learning from experienced professionals while contributing my own skills to improve client outcomes.”
The accumulative number of years served by the 154 Long Service Award recipients is 2,005 years.
Twenty-six individuals received an Excellence Award this year across four categories:
•
HTM INSURANCE AGENTS DONATE TO RMH
HTM
That commitment was put into action when Lindsay’s HTM Agents Amanda Hartin, Cam Atkinson
(Left to right): Amanda Hartin, Erin Coons, Christine Schiarizza and Cam Atkinson
and Christine Schiarizza presented a $1,000 donation to Erin Coons, RMH Foundation CEO. The gift supports the Foundation’s $25 million WE ARE THE ROSS capital campaign, which is funding the highest priority projects at the Ross, including the expansion of the Emergency Department and creation of a Mental Health Emergency Services Unit.
“In 1898, HTM Insurance was formed in the spirit of neighbours helping neighbours,” said Amanda Hartin, HTM Agent. “We are proud to support organizations such as Ross Memorial Hospital in our local community.”
“With their support for critical investments at the Ross, the HTM Insurance Agents are making a lasting difference in their community and making the Kawartha Lakes an even better place to live and work. We’re very grateful for their generosity.”
For more information about the WE ARE THE ROSS capital campaign, visit wearetheross.ca.
NEW DOCTORS IN KAWARTHA LAKES
Submitted by Cindy Snider
The Kawartha Lakes Health Care Initiative (KLHCI) and Kawartha North Family Health Team (KNFHT) are pleased to announce that two new doctors will be joining the Kawartha North Family Health Team as of December 1, 2025.
Dr. Dennis Darkwa will be located in the Bobcaygeon clinic located at 85 Bolton Street and Dr. Fraser Barratt has accepted the practice of Dr. Hor Ven Zung in Fenelon Falls.
Dr. Darkwa, through the Kawartha North Family Health Team, will be accepting new patients that are registered with Health Care Connect. Patients in need of a local family doctor are encouraged to register with Health Care Connect at 1-800-445-1822 or www. ontario.ca/healthcareconnect. It is no longer necessary for patients to release their current physician in order to register.
Dr. Barratt will be accepting all patients of Dr. Zung so is unable, at this time, to accept any new patients to the practice.
Marina Hodson, Executive Director of KNFHT says, “We are thrilled to have Dr. Darkwa join our team and to increase patient attachment in the area. And we are so pleased to have Dr. Barratt joining our team and to continue providing services to all Dr. Zung’s patients without disruption.”
Dr. Darkwa completed a Bachelor of Science, Human Biology at the School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana in 2008. He followed this with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) also at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana in 2011.
After practicing for about nine years in various hospitals, clinics, and other organizations such as International SOS, he completed a GP residency/ training in Gloucestershire/Swindon, United Kingdom, where he qualified as a Member of the Royal College of General Practitioners.
Dr. Darkwa’s wife, Dr. Joana Sarfo, and their three children will join him in Bobcaygeon once Dr. Sarfo has completed her GP residency in the UK. The
Dr. Dennis Darkwa (left) and Dr. Fraser Barratt will be joining the Kawartha North Family Health Team.
family visited the Kawartha Lakes during the summer of 2025, and they are looking forward to making this their forever home.
“I am excited to begin providing care to the people of Bobcaygeon and the surrounding area. It will be a pleasure becoming familiar with the community as I settle in and await the arrival of my family,” says Dr. Darkwa.
Dr. Barratt completed a Bachelor of Medical Sciences at the University of Edinburgh in 2015. He then completed his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) at the University of Edinburgh in 2018. This August he completed his GP training in Edinburgh.
Dr. Barratt, and his wife Cassidy, met while on vacation in Beijing. Cassidy is from Ontario, and they are looking forward to creating their forever home in the Kawartha Lakes.
“I look forward to meeting all the patients who will be under my care, and my wife and I are very excited to build a home in the Kawartha Lakes” says Dr. Barratt.
The KLHCI Board of Directors has representation from throughout the City of Kawartha Lakes. The board is interested in adding new members. Being a member of KLHCI’s Board of Directors is an excellent opportunity to volunteer and be part of this vital component of our community health care, the recruitment and retention of family doctors. Anyone wishing to be part of this community effort by either volunteering or donating financially to support the ongoing family doctor recruitment and retention programs are invited to contact Cindy Snider, Recruitment & Retention Coordinator at csnider@rmh.org or visit the KLHCI website at www.KawarthaLakesDoctors.org.
ONLINE WAIT-TIME CLOCK
We all know how frustrating it can be to wait in an emergency room. That’s certainly one of the challenges facing Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC). Now, the hospital is making it easier to know how long you may have to wait to see a doctor when you come to the hospital’s emergency department.
They have launched an online wait-time clock for the Emergency Department, that provides a real-time estimate of the average wait time to see a doctor, as well as the number of patients waiting to see a doctor, the number of patients waiting for an inpatient bed, and the number of patients currently in the Emergency Department. There are also graphs showing the typical wait times at different times of the day and on different days during the week.
You can find the online clock at prhc.on.ca/ healthcare-services/ed-wait-times/.
DEDICATE A CANOE
In 2019, Daniel Marlatt of Miskwaa Studio & Outdoor Gallery in Trent Lakes came up with a unique idea to release one-inch miniature carved canoes along the Miskwaa Zibi River behind his gallery and home. The concept caught the attention of residents and visitors to the Gallery, resulting in about 350
“lilredcanoes” making their way down river over two years.
This year, Daniel has a new “social project” called Dedicate-a-Canoe. These canoes are 6 inches of natural, hand-sculpted spruce with room for a personal message of 30 to 40 characters. On the bottom of the
2nd PRIZE: $1,000
3rd PRIZE: $500 in Food Basics Gift Cards
Draw Date: March 13, 2026 Draw will be held ONLINE through Rafflebox
See webpage at womensresources.ca or visit
Vicky’s Values to purchase
Vicky’s Values Thrift Boutique, 50 Mary St. West, Lindsay Questions?
Contact Carolyn Fox 705-324-7649 ext. 223 or cfox@womensresources.ca
705-878-4285
22 Russell St. E., Lindsay, ON K9V 2A1 womensresources.ca Shelter, Support and Referral for Women & Children Experiencing Abuse
canoe is an additional message “Please, set me free again” in case one is found along the waterway.
There is no cost to participate in the project, and the only obligation is that they have to be set free in the Miskwaa Zibi River behind the Gallery. The project will officially start in the spring (when it is safe) and the river is running.
Daniel is currently taking advance requests this winter so they will be ready in the spring to set it free. He will be updating his blog (lilredcanoe.blogspot. com), keeping in mind the privacy of his clients.
The person who requests a canoe can set their own day and time with friends and family in the spring, when it is safe to do so, and will continue into the summer.
Daniel says, “Dedication’ could mean anything –the passing of a loved one, passing of a beloved pet, birth of a child, newlyweds, or special life experiences. There is no end date as long as I can create them both physically and emotionally.”
You can reach out to Daniel by email at miskwaa. art@gmail.com to request a canoe or if have any other questions about his social project. You can follow Daniel on Facebook at Miskwaa Studio & Open Air Gallery.
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
The Festival of Trees & Decor at the Buckhorn Community Centre will come to a close on Wednesday, December 10 at the BCC Holiday Open House.
From 10am to 1pm, enjoy refreshments and get your last-minute tickets in for a chance to win a decorated tree or holiday home decor item. The draw takes place at 1pm.
CHRISTMAS CAROL FUNDRAISER
Citizens in Support of A Place Called Home are presenting a dramatic reading of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” on Wednesday, December 3.
The performers are is Nancy Payne, Denis Grignon, Yasmine Kheeraji, Danielle Lazzarine, Ian MacLean and Scott McLeod. They will be accompanied by music from Kawartha Brass Ensemble and Kawartha Singers.
The event is sponsored by MVW Construction and will be held at Cambridge Street United Church (61 Cambridge St. N., Lindsay) from 7pm to 8:30pm. Admission is by donation at the door.
HOLIDAY HAPPY HOUR
Don your fluffiest, ugliest, funniest and itchiest Christmas sweater and join the gang at the Buckhorn Community Centre on Friday, December 5 for some holiday music and adult beverages.
Food will be available for purchase at this free age-of-majority event. Doors are open from 4:30pm to 7:30pm.
While you’re there, browse the Festival of Trees & Decor and purchase tickets for the chance to win one of the beautifully decorated trees and home decor items sponsored by local businesses.
Call the BCC to RSVP at 705-657-8833.
HOLIDAY PANTO AT GLOBUS
Submitted by Rebecca Anne Bloom
The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year -- especially at Globus Theatre, home to the annual holiday pantomime. This year, Jack and the
Beanstalk will take stage with a comedic twist on a classic fairytale beginning December 3rd.
These annual pantomimes serve as a celebration of another successful season at Globus Theatre. The show marks the last performance of the year and highlights local performers, be they young or young at heart, alongside a professional company. Many of these performers are students at Globus’ School of Dramatic Art (SODA) programs which provides accessible dramatic arts programming to the Kawartha Lakes community.
The show stars familiar faces like James Barrett as Dame Trott, Sarah Quick as Poison Ivy, and Kevin Sepaul as Baron Dithers. And making his professional debut, Hayden DiMarco is playing the role of Jack.
Jack and the Beanstalk not only stars this incredible professional cast and enthusiastic locals, but also the audience! In keeping with tradition, the pantomime show encourages audience participation, cheering the goodies and booing the baddies.
Playwright Sarah Quick says “We are extremely excited to continue our pantomime holiday tradition with Jack and the Beanstalk. The play is so much fun and truly a joy to watch. Sharing the wonders of theatre and spreading holiday cheer with schools and our community is something we look forward to every year.”
Start your holiday season with Globus by catching Jack and the Beanstalk from December 3 to 17. with public performances happening on December 5 to 7, and 12 to 14. Various school performances will also take place for Leslie Frost, Fenelon Township, Scott Young Public School and more.
Dinner bookings are available for select dates and are selling out quickly so make sure you ask about booking dinner with your ticket so you can enjoy a delectable three course Christmas dinner before the show, served from Globus’ in-house kitchen!
Tickets for dinner and theatre are $85 for adults and $42.50 for those aged 10 and under. Ticket for theatre-only are $35 for adults and $22.50 for those aged 16 and under. All tickets are subject to HST and a $2 ticketing fee.
Tickets and more information are available at globustheatre.com or 705-738-2037.
NASHVILLE TAKEOVER
Fenelon Falls and Bobcaygeon have been selected out of hundreds across Canada for The Nashville Takeover – Summer 2026.
For three unforgettable days, top emerging songwriters from Nashville and Canada will perform in intimate rooms, unique venues, and secret spaces throughout our town. No big stages -- just authentic music, storytelling, and connection with artists on the rise.
Black Friday pre-sale tickets are now available at a 20 percent discount using the code NASHVILLE20 until November 30. You can purchase tickets by visiting https://luma.com/yicfthzt.
The town with the highest ticket sales will also host a special guest from Nashville who’s written multiple #1 songs.
More details will be released as they become available.
HOLIDAY EVENTS IN KAWARTHA LAKES
From kawarthalakes.ca
There’s plenty for the family to do in the next few weeks to get into the holiday spirit!
Sunday, December 1
Coboconk Santa Claus Parade
Parade starts at 1pm at the Civitan Club and travels along Hwy 35, ending at the Legion. Don’t forget to bring the kids into the Legion to meet Santa after the parade!\
Sunday, December 1
Pontypool Breakfast with Santa and Santa Claus Parade
Breakfast with Santa runs from 8am to 12:15pm, tickets can be bought at the November 16 Christmas Craft Show.
Parade starts at 6pm in downtown Pontypool.
Thursday, December 5 to Saturday, December 7
Christmas in the Village Kinmount Tree Lighting, Thursday December 5 at 6:30pm, Kinmount Train Station
Saturday December 7: Breakfast with Santa 8:30am to 11am at Kinmount Legion Hall ; Farmer’s Market Christmas Open House 10am to 3pm at Kinmount Community Centre
Friday, December 6
Christmas in the Hall and Omemee Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Event starts at 6pm at Coronation Hall.
Saturday, December 7
Omemee Santa Claus Parade Event starts at 1pm at Scott Young Public School.
Friday, December 13
Little Britain Santa Claus Parade and Skate with Santa event, Little Britain Arena Parade starts at 7pm and the skate will be from 8 to 10pm.
Saturday, December 14
Bobcaygeon Santa Claus Parade
Santa’s Breakfast 8am to 12pm at the Bobcaygeon Legion.
Parade starts at 5pm at Kawartha Dairy; fireworks start immediately following the parade at Bobcaygeon Beach Park at approximately 6:30pm. Accepting food and toy donations for local families in need.
1 Complete and abrupt change of policy (5-4)
2 Soccer team known as "The Gunners" (7)
3 Round-table title (3)
4 Sigmund's surname (5)
5 Strange saucer, for short (3)
6 What you are trying to do now (5)
7 Major blunder in a soccer game (3,4) 8 Virtual volume (1-4)
12 A hemp fibre (5) 14 Go around in circles (5)
18 Severely criticize or cook a prime rib (5)
19 Dealer’s deck (5)
20 Baseball and soccer for example (4,5)
22 Said to be "such sweet sorrow" (7)
24 Howard Hughes for example (7)
25 A truthful saying (5)
26 Misbehave, like a toddler (3,2)
27 Suzette’s pancake? (5)
30 Sound like a pigeon (3)
32 Uncooked, like steak tartare (3)
Horoscopes
Aquarius (Jan. 21 to Feb. 19) We reap what we sow, Aquarius. It’s an old saying, but it stands the test of time. Good deeds will bear fruit while bad deeds will haunt us.
Pisces (Feb. 20 to March 20) Learn to treat yourself with kindness, Pisces, as you would friends or family. Love yourself because you are YOU, nothing more and nothing less. Do good things for yourself every day of the week. You never need an excuse!
Aries (March 21 to April 20) We only fail when we do not try, Aries. If you do try, you will know the outcome, good or bad. If you don’t, you will be forever guessing what might have been.
Taurus (April 21 to May 21) Taurus, you, like so many these days, are probably stretched a little thin right now. Try to make a daily road map regarding what you hope to accomplish each day. As always, keep it simple! No one expects you to keep up with the Jones’ – except yourself!
Gemini (May 22 to June 22) Gemini, we sense a certain energy in the air you will be inhabiting during the holidays – and this could easily lead to a new romance. Be on your toes!
Cancer (June 23 to July 23) Let your instincts guide you during this phase, Cancer, as you may be faced with diverse paths and be unsure which to follow. They will not lead you astray.
Leo (July 24 to Aug. 23) “There is nothing like a dream to create the future.”: Victor Hugo. So, Leo,
by Melodie McCullough
you heard the man – starting dreaming! Who knows what will transpire?
Virgo (Aug. 24 to Sept. 23) Virgo, learn to set boundaries by repeating your message over and over in a calm voice. This is known as the “broken record” technique and will be sure to get your words across assertively and boldly.
Libra (Sept. 24 to Oct. 23) Value the people who make your life richer, Libra, and avoid the ones who don’t. You do not owe them anything. You do not need to spend your days trying to make them better people.
Scorpio (Oct. 24 to Nov. 22) Letting go is the hardest thing, Scorpio – whether it’s an object that holds sentimental value or moving on from one home to another or seeing our children fly off on their own. Remember; it is the memories that matter, nothing else.
Sagittarius (Nov. 23 to Dec. 21) The full Cold Moon rises Dec. 4 and this year it is another Supermoon, lighting up the winter night almost 15% brighter than a typical full moon. This is a good time, Sag, to stay close to home, slow down and snuggle in with a good hot beverage!
Capricorn (Dec. 22 to Jan. 20) Dear Capricorn: Stop overthinking everything! Let things be and life will become much more uncomplicated. Everything will unfold in due time and as it should. Nov. 28 to Dec. 17
Classifieds
EVENT
ST. ANDREW’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
54 Bolsover Rd.
Bolsover, On.
In church Services start at 10:00 a.m.
Sundays
All Welcome and for further information please call 705 426-9382
Bolsover Pines Seniors Club - 50+ 16 Bolsover RD.
Community Centre Bolsover NEW MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME. Regular Weekly events unless above noted changes Membership is $10 (good until May 2023) with weekly games for $3 per day.
REGULAR WEEKLY GAMES:
Tuesdays 1:00 p.m. Euchre Wednesday 1:00 p.m. drop in with Darts, Thursday 1:00 p.m. Bridge Tea and Coffee served
at half time except Wednesdays.Doors open at 12:30 p.m. Come and enjoy a fun afternoon with a great bunch and help keep this community centre open.Please check our web page https:// bolsoverseniors.life or on Facebook.
SAGES GENTLE EXERCISES FOR SENIORS - (SAGES) Thursdays 9:30a.m.
Kirkfield Lions Club 973 Portage Rd \hwy 48 (left entrance of building) Kirkfield, Cost $3 per class THURSDAY at 9:30 AM. Program is geared for older adults and can be done sitting or standing The exercises focus on improving cardiovascular endurance, balance, muscle strength and flexibility. Come join the fun For more info 705-324-7323 ext 186 or info@ccckl.ca
We are proud to support our local businesses and community organizations. The online version of The Kawartha Promoter allows us to provide you, our loyal readers, with news from around the region. Please support local businesses however possible. And give thanks to all the volunteers, medical professionals, and necessary services.
