Creative Easter Cakes
(Family Features) Sweet, delicious treats make Easter celebrations magical, putting the final touch on brunch, lunch or dinner gatherings. Whether your crowd enjoys the sweet-tart combination of fruit-infused cakes or rich, creamy cheesecake, the dessert table is sure to be popular. Blueberry Lemon Bundt Cake and Carrot Cheesecake from “Cookin’ Savvy” are perfect desserts for sharing with loved ones, made with little effort and a lot of love. You can even let little ones help in the kitchen.
To ensure your feast goes off without a hitch, create these tempting cakes the day before for a no-hassle Easter. Find more ways to elevate Easter celebrations with food by visiting Culinary.net.
Blueberry Lemon Bundt Cake
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 1 cake
INGREDIENTS
1 pint fresh blueberries rinsed
1 box lemon cake mix
1 stick butter melted
4 eggs
1 cup milk
Glaze:
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 cup powdered sugar
3 tablespoons milk
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. Grease bundt pan and place rinsed blueberries in bottom. Mix cake mix, butter, eggs and milk; pour on top of blueberries. Bake 35 minutes. Let cool and remove from pan.
3. To make glaze: Mix butter, sugar and milk then pour over cake.
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Carrot Cheesecake
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 1 cake
INGREDIENTS
Cake:
1 box spice cake mix
1 cup grated carrot
1 cup coconut
4 eggs
1 stick butter melted
2/3 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
Cheesecake:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons sugar
8 ounces cream cheese softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup powdered sugar
Topping:
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup chopped white chocolate chips
DIRECTIONS:
1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. To make cake: Mix cake mix with carrot and coconut. Using hand mixer, blend in eggs, butter and yogurt. Pour mixture into greased springform pan and bake 30 minutes. Let completely cool in pan.
3. To make cheesecake: Using hand mixer, whip whipping cream and sugar to form whipped cream and set aside.
4. Using hand mixer, whip cream cheese, vanilla and powdered sugar. Add in whipped cream and mix. Pour onto completely cooled carrot cake in springform pan. Let set in refrigerator at least 4 hours or overnight before unspringing pan.
5. For topping: Sprinkle chopped nuts and chocolate chips on cake before serving.
Tip: For extra festive appearance, add desired Easter candy on top.
Publisher’s Note
Do you enjoy writing poetry? We have started the “Poetry Corner”. If you would like your poetry considered for publication in What’s Up? Georgian Bay, please email your poem to: vledden1@gmail.com. Thank you to all of our readers, contributors and advertisers for your continuing support.
Publisher Victoria Ledden
OWNER/PUBLISHER/AD SALES
Victoria Ledden | 705-429-0761 | vledden1@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER/WRITER Don Beaulieu
Project 818B Marketing | kim@project818b.com
MAILING ADDRESS
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The Master Gardener’s Corner
April
• Make sure you’ve done everything you were supposed to do on the March 2025 MG List, or ask for a new copy. Spring had only started to arrive by mid March, but there were some late snow and colder days. Wiarton Willy, who forecast an early spring, was wrong!
• Start off the new gardening season with a few bend and stretch exercises every time before you start in the garden. I find skiing muscles have nothing to do with gardening muscles. Take it easy. There are a lot of gardening days before the next ski season.
• If you can find them, buy and plant frost-resistant pansies early in the month for spring colour.
• A new program for spreading triple-19 fertilizer. I have learned from the Guelph- educated agronomist at Mid-West Co-Op in Markdale that you should NOT spread 19-19-19 general purpose fertilizer over the snow on all your flower beds and shrub boarders, as I used to recommend. You will lose the Nitrogen as it will melt away. So, after the snow has gone, and new leaves have not yet appeared on your plants, you should spread it just in your flower beds. Triple-19 fertilizer is available now at the Mid-West Co-Op just south of Markdale on HWY 10 for $34.20 a bag.
• Organize your compost pile for the new season. Start a new one with the top foot or so of compost material from last year’s pile as a base. Take the top off down to the new compost you have created and start a new pile with the stuff from the top 12 to 24 inches of the old pile.
• As the weather warms and the ground dries, prune back perennials and ornamental grasses to 1” to 2” from the ground. Collect dead material, shred, if possible, and put it on your new pile.
• Push any plants that the frost has heaved out of the ground back into place.
• Prepare your garden beds for planting. Dig in compost, and/or manure, and/or other organic material around each perennial plant. Remove weeds that have come through from last fall. When you have cleaned up
the beds, add 3” to 4” of mulch to control weeds this summer. For mulch try 13/40 Landscape Supplies on Grey Rd 40 for a variety of mulches - 519-599 1340.
• Here’s an opportunity. Look over your garden to determine what plants are in the wrong place, or have grown too big and need dividing, or you hate them! Dig, divide, pot-up and donate any extra perennials you have to the St. George’s Anglican Church annual plant sale, Saturday, May 24, 2025. When you donate 15 or more perennials, you will receive an Income Tax Donation receipt for the value your plants sell for. Plant intake days are Wednesday, May 21, 10 am – 4 pm & Thursday, May 22, 10 am until noon. Call 519-599-3047 to register as a donor and get a FREE “Plant Donor Kit”, with plant & donor labels, a waterproof Sharpie pen and complete digging, potting and labelling instructions.
• Remove winter rose protection. For Hybrid Teas, prune back to 6” or 8”and apply dormant oil spray before the buds break.
• Apply dormant oil spray to shrubs like euonymus that may have suffered from scale last year. Do it before the buds break.
• Prepare your vegetable garden with a good digging. Dig in compost and manure. Mid-month, plant the seeds of coolweather vegetables like peas, spinach, lettuce, onions and beets. Plant seeds of frost-resistant annuals like larkspur, sweet peas and calendulas.
• When you can’t see your footprints in the lawn, it’s dry enough to rake it vigorously to remove any thatch. Repair damage with weed-free topsoil. Add grass seed to bare spots & keep moist.
• Fertilize your lawn with slow-release high-nitrogen fertilizer (the first of the 3 numbers on the bag). Slow-release urea costs more, but it’s worth it, as it should last until the fall.
• Apply crabgrass pre-emergent herbicide to your lawn, if required.
• When spring finally arrives, plant new trees, shrubs, perennials and biennials in your garden. No need to wait until the end of May for perennials and shrubs, that’s for annuals. Up here, June 1st is the date to safely plant frost-tender annuals. With a late frost forecast, cover annuals with a bedsheet at night.
• Refill your pots and planters with compost. But first, put empty plastic bottles with tops on at the bottom of large pots. You will need less soil and they will be lighter and easier to move. Add slow-release plant food to the top 4 inches.
• Start mowing your lawn only as needed. Keep it long to crowd out any weeds.
• Save Saturday May 24th for the St. George’s, Anglican Parish of the Blue Mountains, Giant Annual Plant Sale on the church grounds at 166 Russell St. in Clarksburg. They are projected to have over 1,300 high quality perennials and shrubs to choose from, at very reasonable and competitive prices, plus free gardening advice from the 599 Garden Club experts. Sale opens at 8 am. Come early for best selection.
And finally, if there are any students out there who are interested in garden work after school this spring, plus during the summer months as well, please get in touch now. There are lots of jobs available. Contact John Hethrington casacarolejohn@gmail.com
Things to do in your garden each month taken from the Ontario Master Gardener Calendar by John Hethrington, Past President, Master Gardeners of Ontario. For more information, or your copy of the 11” x 17” calendar of the full year’s Master Gardener’s tips for a $2 contribution to Master Gardeners, call 519-599-5846 or e-mail to casacarolejohn@gmail.com.
Dig, Divide & Donate
This Spring, Dig, Divide & Donate Your Extra Perennials to the St. George’s Anglican church Giant Plant Sale in Clarksburg on May 24th 8am-12noon. Get an income tax receipt for the value they sell for!
Each year, St. George’s, Anglican Parish of the Blue Mountains, holds a Giant Plant Sale on their church grounds at 166 Russell St in Clarksburg. Last year, 1,228 perennial plants were donated by local gardeners and sold by the church, raising almost $7,800 for the good work of the church in the community. The church has just issued Income Tax Receipts totalling over $6,000 to the gardeners who each donated 15 or more plants last year. Thinking ahead to this year’s Plant Sale on Saturday, May 24, 2025, if you have at least 15 perennial plants, shrubs or herbs that have grown too big, are in the wrong place, or you can’t stand them anymore, make a list and plan to dig them/pot them up in late April for this year’s plant Sale, May 24, 2025. But first, call the church at 519-599-3047 and register as a Plant Donor. They will arrange to get you a free Plant Donor Kit. It will contain white “Plant Labels” you will need for the information about each plant, the yellow “Donor Labels” for your initials to get your Tax Receipt, plus a waterproof Sharpie pen for labelling and finally, all the instructions you will need. If you need pots for your plants, come to the church and check the gray box at the back door for FREE pots. And remember, digging up and dividing your perennials will invigorate your entire garden and get you an Income Tax receipt. It is recommended that you do your digging and potting up on a cloudy day, using a 1 gallon or 6” pots. Water the plants well and keep them in the shade. Keep the soil moist, but not sodden.
Plan to bring your potted plants to the church on Plant Intake Day, Wednesday, May 21st from 10am - 4pm, or from 10 am to noon on Thursday, May 22. If that time doesn’t work for you, please contact Hazel de Burgh at hazel.deburgh@gmail.com to confirm an alternate day/time to bring your plants to the church.
The church’s website www.parishofthebluemountains.com includes an instructional video by John Hethrington, Master Gardener, on how best to divide and pot up your perennials. And finally, if you have plants to donate, but are unable to dig them, please call 519-5995846, or email casacarolejohn@gmail.com to arrange for some help in potting up. In the meantime, get outside and enjoy your garden. It’s spring!
Spinach Bites
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy” Servings: 24 shells
INGREDIENTS
1 package cream cheese 8 ounces, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup thawed frozen spinach
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1 package real bacon pieces 2 1/2 ounces
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder salt to taste
pepper to taste
1 package frozen puff pastry 2 sheets
DIRECTIONS
1. With hand mixer, blend cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, spinach, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, bacon pieces, garlic powder, onion powder and salt and pepper, to taste.
2. Heat oven to 400 F.
3. Thaw and roll out puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into 12 squares. Place
Submitted by John Hethrington
each puff pastry square into hole in muffin pan then spoon spinach mixture into each square and pinch corners together. Bake 15 minutes and serve warm.
Notes: Spinach mixture can be made in advance and kept in refrigerator up to 5 days before using. Recipe can be halved or doubled depending on needs.
Easter Eats
(Family Features) Even if Easter hosting duties fell on your plate this year and added one more thing to your holiday to-do list, that doesn’t mean it has to be difficult. After all, Easter is a time meant for fun and fellowship with the food just one part of the celebration.
Building the menu around simple, one-pan dishes can keep the focus where it needs to be: spending time and creating memories with family and friends. These dishes call for short lists of ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry, and simple preparation to create a full spread perfect for sharing with loved ones. Plus, using only one pan makes cleanup a breeze, so you can get back to the festivities quickly.
Whether you’re celebrating with your nearest and dearest or hosting a larger crowd, this Deviled Egg recipe can be halved or doubled to fit your needs. Plus, they feature many ingredients you may already have on-hand, making them easy to prep ahead of time to avoid spending too much time in the kitchen while trying to host.
For more Easter recipe inspiration, visit Culinary.net.
Easter Roast
Servings: 1 roast
INGREDIENTS
Salt pepper garlic powder
1 roast 3 pounds
1 bag 1 pound baby carrots
1 bag 1 1/2 pounds trio potatoes or potato of choice
3 cups beef broth
1 can 10 ounces cream of mushroom soup
1 tablespoon garlic pepper
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 onion roughly chopped
1 bundle asparagus
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Sprinkle salt, pepper and garlic powder over roast and rub into front, back and sides. Place seasoned roast in middle of large roasting pan.
3. Place carrots on one side of roasting pan and potatoes on other side.
4. In large bowl, mix beef broth and cream of mushroom soup with garlic pepper. Pour mixture over roast, potatoes and carrots. Sprinkle brown sugar over carrots and add chopped onion. Cover and cook 2 1/2 hours then remove from oven, add asparagus and cook uncovered 30 minutes.
5. Serve from pan or place on platter for more formal presentation.
Deviled Eggs
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 16 deviled eggs
INGREDIENTS
8 boiled eggs
1/2-3/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons mustard
2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
1 package real bacon pieces 2 1/2 ounces
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder salt to taste pepper to taste smoked paprika for garnish (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Slice each egg and place whites on plate and yolks in bowl.
2. In bowl of yolks, add 1/2 cup mayonnaise, mustard, pickle juice, bacon pieces, garlic powder, onion powder and salt and pepper, to taste. With fork or hand mixer, blend until smooth. Add more mayonnaise until mixture reaches desired smoothness.
3. Spoon or pipe mixture into egg whites. Garish with smoked paprika, if desired.
4. Notes
Note: Deviled eggs can be made day before and kept covered in refrigerator until needed.
Expert Tips for Feeding Young Athletes
(BPT) - Spring sports are just around the corner. If you have young athletes, it’s time to think about what you’ll feed them so they can perform their best physically and stay sharp mentally.
Your secret weapon? Protein!
“Protein plays an important role in building muscle by providing your body with the building blocks needed to fuel recovery from physical activity,” said Amy Goodson, registered dietitian.
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, interviewed Goodson to find out how families can support the health and performance of their children and teens participating on and off the field this season. Check out her three tips for feeding your kids nutritious protein to support their growth, development, energy, focus and overall well-being.
1. CHOOSE LEAN ANIMAL PROTEINS
The type of protein you choose is critical to fueling your all-stars. The next time you’re in the grocery aisle, look for lean sources of animal protein.
“Animal proteins, like beef, are one of the most nutrient-dense, complete protein sources available, meaning they provide essential amino acids and, in turn, help your body maintain muscle,” said Goodson.
Eating lean proteins isn’t just good for your kids. Goodson points out that everyone in your family, young and old, can benefit. This is especially true if you regularly exercise.
“As you age, lean proteins fuel day-to-day stamina and are critical to helping adults live independently.”
2. USE THE THREE-PART PLATE RULE
Shaping athletic and academic performance is as easy as 1-2-3! Goodson recommends using the three-part plate rule to ensure every meal you serve has all the necessary foods to fuel any activity.
The three-part plate rule is simple: Make one-third of your plate highquality protein like lean beef to promote muscle building and recovery, one-third whole grain carbohydrate for sustained energy and one-third colourful fruits and veggies for added vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and hydration.
3. DOUBLE DOWN ON NUTRITION BY SERVING BEEF
According to the latest Dietary Guidelines, many children and adolescents aren’t getting enough high-quality protein, iron, zinc, choline, and vitamins B6 and B12. This trend is especially alarming given the significant growth and development that happens during this life stage.
When you cook lean beef meals, you’re serving your family a nutrientdense food that provides an all-star nutrient lineup of high-quality protein, iron, zinc, choline, selenium and B vitamins. It’s a grand slam for growing bodies and minds.
“Beef delivers high-quality protein along with a variety of essential nutrients,” said Goodson. “It’s also known for its great flavour and versatility in a variety of meals and dishes, which adds to overall meal satisfaction and helps you feel fuller longer and stay energized.”
To get you started on your weekly meal plan, try one (or all!) of Goodson’s favourite beef recipes.
BEEF STICKY BUNS
One of Goodson’s favourite morning meals to get you going is beef sticky buns. This recipe combines beef sausage, cheese and veggies, making it the ultimate savoury breakfast that’s also good if you’re on the go.
CHIMICHURRI STEAK WRAPS
A protein-packed lunch for the whole family is chimichurri steak wraps. It’s a fairly simple recipe. All you have to do is put steak, veggies and chimichurri sauce in a whole wheat tortilla and roll it up.
Pro tip: You can also serve a deconstructed version of this dish by packing the ingredients in a Bento box for a filling, on-the-go meal.
BRAISED BRISKET STREET-STYLE TACOS
Do you have a busy day ahead? Try this beef slow-cooker meal for braised brisket street-style tacos.
Are you ready to make this spring semester a slam dunk? Use these expert tips to incorporate protein into your meal plan, and you’ll be well on your way to a winning season.
To find these recipes and more that will keep your kids fueled, visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com.
FOR ANOTHER DAY
In the early morning he arises
Hoping for no surprises
He eats breakfast
Then starts his tractor
Rain forecasted for later
Is a very relevant factor
The sun will not last long
As due to rugged ground
He bounces on the tractor like a ping-pong
Hooking on to the plow
He must do now
For later the farmer must tend to an ill sow
Later it begins to pour
His hand from steering
Has become a bit sore
Back to the barn he goes
As around him the strong wind blows
He parks his tractor and plow in the shed
Looking over to see rain overhead
Then to his house
He makes his way
Knowing he must bale hay
But that is for another day
Written by Ryan P. Barnett
Poetry Corner
A NICE DAY IN EARLY MARCH
Spring is coming, spring is coming
What a glorious, sunny day
Water lying in the driveway
Soon, the snow will go away
Birds are singing in the branches Cardinals, Blue Jays, Robins too Sparrows swarm around the feeders
As the sun-warmed breezes blew
Squirrels chatter ‘neath the feeders
Eating grain the birds have spilled
Melting snow exposes plenty
Hungry bellies for to fill
Soon enough the clouds will come back
Bringing snow, or freezing rain
Not just yet, the end of winter
Frost-god’s fury comes again
Just a taste, this warm and fine day
Forecasting what’s yet to come
Winter’s swan song is approaching
Days of boots and coats soon done
Let’s enjoy the sun and breezes
Winter’s ice and snow forget
Living only for the moment
Life’s as good as it can get
Written by Robert G. Adams
Find Your Rhythm, Take Hold Of Your Greatness, Live Life To Your Fullest, Love & Be Loved
Written
by
Wendy D. Pogue
Controlling Odours
There
5
FRIDGE
RUG, CARPET
There is nothing worse than odours trapped in the fibres of a rug or carpet (especially from a pet!). You might be able to remove the unwanted scent with some baking soda! Sprinkle the effected area with baking soda and let it sit all night. Vacuum it up the next day. Repeat until the odour is gone.
COOKING ODOURS
Boil 1/4 cup white vinegar per 1 litre water. The rising heat carries the odour- neutralizing vinegar particles to the same surface where the smoke and grease landed.
GARBAGE CAN
• Scrub the inside with a nylon- bristled brush with soap and water regularly.
• Use odour absorbing materials like charcoal or baking soda.
• For natural deodorization use some citrus peels or vanilla extract.
• To prevent the growth of odour- causing mold and bacteria, sprinkle some borax in the bottom of the can.
An open box of baking soda will keep the refrigerator odours at bay. But what will you use to eliminate a strong, persistent, unpleasant odour in the fridge?
• Get some activated charcoal at the nearby pet store.
• Spread some in a shallow pan on your fridge or freezer shelf.
• The charcoal won’t harm your food. After about 8 hours place the charcoal for 20 minutes in a 350°F (175°C) preheated oven to reactivate it.
• You can reuse the charcoal many times if you reactivate it.
BASEMENT
Musty basements are not pleasant! It comes from mold and mildew, which thrive in dark environments.
• First you want to remove the stale air. Ventillate the space: open windows and doors, use fans to circulate the air. Turn on the dehumidifier to remove the air’s humidity.
• Cut an onion in half and leave it on a plate in your basement. The onion absorbs musty odours.
• Use baking soda, white vinegar or activated charcoal to absorb odours. Replace these every few days until the smell dissipates.
• Skip fancy brand-name air fresheners. They don’t really freshen the air, but mask the smells. According to some experts they can actually irritate the lungs.
• Look for products that kill the bacteria that cause odours.
Your feedback is important. Please reach out by email or phone regarding any cleaning related issues.
519-938-1702
grcleaner@gmail.com
Buy Local Food
Help Our Canadian Farmers and the Environment
Supporting local farmers is one of the best ways to strengthen Canada’s economy, promote sustainability, and enjoy fresh, high-quality food, especially when our farmers and economy are under threat from trade and tariff issues. When you buy local, you’re not just purchasing food—you’re investing in the future of Canadian agriculture, protecting the environment, and ensuring food security for generations to come.
WHY BUYING LOCAL MATTERS
1. Supporting Canadian Farmers and the Economy
Canada’s farmers work tirelessly to provide fresh, nutritious food for our tables. However, many small and medium-sized farms struggle to compete with largescale imports. By choosing local food, you help keep money within the Canadian economy, create jobs, and support rural communities. Every dollar spent on locally grown food helps farmers reinvest in their land, equipment, and labour, ensuring they can continue to provide for our country.
2. Fresher, Healthier, and Tastier Food
Imported food often travels thousands of kilometers before reaching grocery store shelves. During transit, produce loses nutritional value and freshness. Locally sourced food, on the other hand, is harvested at peak ripeness, meaning it’s more flavourful and packed with nutrients. Whether it’s farm-fresh vegetables, grass-fed beef, or organic dairy, locally produced food simply tastes better.
3. Environmental and Climate Benefits
Buying local reduces the carbon footprint of your food. Transporting food across continents requires significant amounts of fuel, leading to high greenhouse gas emissions. Local food requires fewer resources for transportation, packaging, and refrigeration. Supporting sustainable farming practices in Canada also helps protect biodiversity, soil health, and water resources while reducing emissions and helping climate mitigation.
4. Strengthening Food Security
Recent global events have highlighted the importance of food security. Relying heavily on imported food makes Canada vulnerable to tariffs and supply chain disruptions. By supporting local farmers, we reduce dependence on foreign imports and build a more resilient food system that can withstand economic and environmental challenges. How You Can Support Local Farmers
• Shop at Farmers’ Markets – Visit your local farmers’ market or farms to buy fresh produce, meat, dairy, and baked goods directly from Canadian farmers.
• Look for “Product of Canada” Labels – When shopping at grocery stores, choose foods labeled as Canadian-made.
• Join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Program – Subscribe to a local farm’s CSA box for seasonal produce delivered to your doorstep, or join Eat Impact, a new Barrie-based subscription food box service for all Canadian fresh affordable products, just created in response to US tariffs.
• Support Local Butchers and Dairy Farms – Instead of big-box stores, purchase your meat, eggs, and dairy from local sources.
• Drink Local: instead of imported bottled water, beers, wine and liquors, purchase your drinks from local and Canadian producers. By making small, conscious choices, we can support Ontario and Canadian farmers, strengthen our economy, help the environment and climate while enjoying better, fresher, healthier food. Choose local—it’s better for you, the environment, and our farmers!
LOCAL ACTION PRODUCES GLOBAL IMPACT
Engage with Wasaga Beach Climate Action Team wasagabeachclimateaction.com Info@wasagbeachclimateaction.com
Submitted by Gerard Dusastre
5 Ways to Get the Work-Life Balance You Need
(NC) In this connected world, it’s all too easy to let work obligations cut into your personal time. While greater flexibility is crucial for many, it’s important not to let the idea of ‘working from anywhere’ lead to ‘always on the clock’. If you’re looking to bring more balance back into your life, start with these five tips.
TRACK YOUR TIME. The first step to reclaiming balance is to find out where the imbalance lies. Put some effort into tracking your time for a week or two and see where and how it is being used. Many companies have online time-tracking tools that you can trial for free. Do some research to find the one that works best for you. Take this information and see if you can lessen distractions throughout the workday so that it doesn’t start crossing-over into your evenings or weekends.
SET BOUNDARIES. Prioritize your schedule and communicate your availability with colleagues and clients. Being clear on your work hours and response times will help reduce the need to check on work after hours or on your time off. If there is a need to check in afterhours, set a specific hour to do so and time limit for your responses.
SCHEDULE BREAKS. Add breaks to your daily calendar so that not only is your time blocked off, but you’ll also get reminders that a break is needed. Whether it’s a 15-minute stand up and stretch or an hour-long lunch with a walk and some fresh air, taking time away from your desk will increase your overall productivity, help with creativity and reduce levels of stress.
AUTOMATE TASKS. With today’s technology, automating tasks is a safe and reliable timesaver. For those that run their own business, cloud-based accounting software, such as FreshBooks, can save you time by automating processes to create invoices, track expenses and calculate taxes, leaving more time to focus on the rest of the business.
SET PRIORITIES. Plan your day the night before and prioritize your tasks by their importance and urgency (high, medium and low) along with how much effort will be involved to complete them. Once the priorities are set, block out time on your calendar for the high and medium ones and the lower priorities can be worked on in between.
Find time-tracking tools and learn more about how cloud-based accounting can help your work-life balance at freshbooks.com.
Gluten-Free?
HERE’S WHY IT MIGHT NOT BE THE BEST CHOICE
Gluten is a group of proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. It gives dough its elasticity, helps it rise, and provides the chewy texture in baked goods. The two main proteins in gluten are gliadin and glutenin. While gluten is commonly found in foods like bread, pasta, and cereals, it can also be present in processed foods, sauces, and even cosmetics. For most people, gluten is harmless. However, for individuals with celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or wheat allergies, consuming gluten can cause digestive and immune system issues.
The gluten-free diet trend took off about 15 years ago, largely fueled by Dr. William Davis’ 2011 book Wheat Belly, which linked gluten consumption to weight gain and various health issues. Celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Miley Cyrus endorsed the gluten-free lifestyle, further popularizing it. Despite the enthusiasm, Davis’ claims faced strong criticism from clinical, scientific, and nutrition communities due to a lack of solid evidence. He attributed gluten to a wide range of health problems, including obesity, acne, low energy, and even cancer, often using vague or misleading terms like “abnormal metabolic signals,” “elevation of estrogen,” “harmful insulin response,” and “addictive wheat opioids” without substantive scientific backing. In many ways, the gluten-free movement was more of a trend than a science-based approach to nutrition.
Over the past decade, research has reinforced the lack of evidence supporting the benefits of a gluten-free diet for the general population. There is no doubt that gluten-free diets are essential for those with celiac disease or a confirmed gluten sensitivity (which is quite rare). Some studies suggest potential benefits for conditions such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) or certain cases of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but responses vary from person to person. People with wheat allergies may also need to avoid gluten-containing
foods to prevent allergic reactions. However, for the vast majority of people, eliminating gluten is unnecessary and may even be detrimental to overall health.
Despite growing evidence that gluten-free diets are not inherently healthier, their popularity continues to rise. Many gluten-free products are less nutritious than their gluten-containing counterparts. They are often lower in fibre and essential nutrients like B vitamins and iron. To compensate for texture and flavour, gluten-free processed foods frequently contain higher amounts of sugar and fat, making them a potentially worse dietary choice.
For those without medical reasons to avoid gluten, a well-balanced diet that includes whole grains, fibre, and essential nutrients is a far better approach than needlessly cutting out gluten. Instead of falling for diet trends, focusing on overall nutrition and whole, minimally processed foods will always be the healthier choice.
Submitted by Don Beaulieu
Mind. Body. Spirit.
Celebrate Your Oral Health this April
(NC) April is Oral Health Month in Canada, a time dedicated to emphasizing the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices for better overall health. An integral part of this is highlighting how oral health can impact a person’s overall well-being.
Dental hygienists, in particular, will be celebrating National Dental Hygienists
Week which takes place from April 4th to 10th. Oral health professionals will engage in activities within their communities to share the importance of oral health with people of all ages.
Canadians are encouraged to use this month as a reminder to practise six simple steps for better oral health:
1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
2. Clean between your teeth daily with an interdental device or floss.
3. Use an antibacterial mouthrinse.
4. Make healthy food and beverage choices.
5. Eliminate tobacco use.
6. Visit an oral health professional regularly. These practices help prevent common oral concerns like cavities and gum disease, contributing to better overall health.
Learn more about the importance of oral health and how to maintain it effectively. Join the celebration at dentalhygienecanada.ca/NDHW.
Bright Smiles: Protecting Children’s Oral Health
(NC) Did you know tooth decay is the most prevalent, preventable chronic disease among children worldwide? Ensuring children maintain good oral health is essential for their overall well-being. Not only do healthy teeth and gums support proper chewing and speaking, but establishing proper oral hygiene habits early on can prevent tooth decay along with bad breath and gum disease.
Here are 3 key strategies to improve your child’s oral health:
CREATE A DAILY ORAL HYGIENE ROUTINE. Prevent cavities by encouraging regular brushing and flossing. Children should brush their teeth twice a day with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay. Children under 3 years old should use an amount similar to the size of a grain of rice. For children 3 years and older, the amount of toothpaste should be similar to that of a pea. They should also clean between their teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes. If your child isn’t old enough to do all of these things correctly on their own, you can help them until they are old enough to do so.
ENCOURAGE HEALTHY EATING. What children eat also plays a significant role in their oral health. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks can reduce their risk of cavities. Instead, opt for nutritious snacks like fruits, vegetables and cheese, and offer water throughout the day to help wash away food particles and bacteria that lead to cavities.
HAVE REGULAR ORAL HEALTH CARE APPOINTMENTS. Scheduling regular appointments with an oral health professional is crucial to your child’s overall health. Dental hygienists can provide preventive treatments such as fluoride varnish and dental sealants, which offer additional protection against cavities. Dental sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where cavities are most likely to form. They last for many years.
By encouraging good oral hygiene habits early on and making healthy dietary choices, parents and caregivers can help children maintain bright, healthy smiles for life.
Learn more at dentalhygienecanada.ca/kids
Our Children & Their Anxiety
As parents, we worry about our children on many levels. One area of concern for many families is anxiety. There is a prevalence of anxiety in our children and teens that is alarming and needs our attention. The Children’s Mental Health Ontario (CMHO) has reported data showing that about 20% of Canadian children experience diagnosable mental health disorders, with anxiety being one of the most prevalent (ref: cmho.org).
“Anxiety is NOT a sign of breakage. It’s a sign that a strong, healthy, magnificent brain is doing exactly what brains are meant to do – protect us from threat. It won’t matter that there’s no clear threat – anxiety doesn’t care about that” (Ref: Karen Young, Hey Sigmond).
As a result, sometimes anxiety can leave us with uncomfortable symptoms that can become overwhelming and debilitating at times. If you see your child struggling with some of these symptoms, they may be dealing with anxiety. Children may experience excessive worrying, physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches or fatigue. Other signs include avoiding activities that are difficult or new as well as changes in the child’s sleep routine. Sometimes children and teens experience trouble concentrating in school and can also become more irritable and/or withdrawn.
One useful tool is deep breathing which can calm our system down so the symptoms aren’t so intense. Try this exercise with your child or teen.
Hot chocolate breathing: Pretend you have a cup of hot chocolate in your hands. Smell the chocolate for a count of three, hold it for one, then blow it cool for three, hold it for one. Repeat three or four times.
As a Registered Psychotherapist, I can tell you the good news is - there are effective treatments for children or teens with anxiety. If you would like more information about how I support children, teens and families dealing with anxiety, please check out my ad on this page.
Wendy Hunter wendy@insupportofchildren.com
Submitted by: Wendy Hunter
Registered Psychotherapist with In Support Of Children Counselling
Wendy Hunter Registered Psychotherapist
• Learning Disabilities & ADHD
• Anxiety & Depression
• Grief & Loss
• Individual & Family Counselling
• Parent Education
Supporting & Educating Families ...counselling for children, teens, parents & families
705-794-5307 insupportofchildren.com
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and
4 SAFETY TIPS FOR DRIVING NEAR LARGE TRUCKS
(BPT) - According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, nearly 740,000 people were injured in large-truck crashes from 2016 to 2020, exceeding the previous five-year total by nearly 44%. Drivers of large trucks are often blamed for these alarming metrics due to the sheer size of commercial trucks. However, crash data and analysis indicate that other parties are more commonly at fault.
“Research has revealed that passenger vehicle drivers are at fault in nearly 75% of all fatal car-truck crashes,” says Cliff Johnson, trucking business segment consultant.
The following tips represent best practices that can help motorists improve roadway safety and reduce future crash totals:
1. HOW TO PASS A TRUCK It can take nearly the distance of two football fields for a truck that’s traveling at 65 miles per hour to come to a complete stop. If you need to pass a truck, try to do so on the left-hand side. After confirming that you have enough space to completely pass the truck, use your directional signals and ensure you can see the entire front of the vehicle in your rearview mirror before moving back into the trucker’s lane.
2. AVOID DRIVING IN NO-ZONES If you can’t see a truck driver in either of the truck’s side mirrors, you are in the driver’s blind spot. Steering clear of the following areas can ensure your vehicle is always visible:
* Up to 20 feet in front of the hood
* Up to 200 feet behind the trailer
* The area from the driver’s door to the trailer bulkhead
* The passenger side from the front bumper to the back of the trailer up to three lanes wide
MIKE’S TIRES
3. KEEP YOUR DISTANCE Driving too close to a large truck can prevent you from having enough time to react to roadway hazards, which can result in serious rear-end crashes. When traveling at highway speeds, keep enough distance to see mirrors on both sides of the truck. In slower traffic areas, you should always be far enough away to at least see the truck’s driver-side mirror.
4. PROVIDE SPACE ON TURNS Due to their width and size, large trucks require significantly more space than a passenger vehicle when making turns. As truck drivers often swing wide to complete right- or left-hand turns to avoid contact with a curb, median or sidewalk, never drive along the side of a truck when it’s turning - even if there appears to be space. Also, be sure your vehicle is positioned behind the intersection’s stop line to ensure trucks have enough room to maneuver through crossroads or intersections.
While these safety tips can help you avoid roadway collisions, accidents still happen. Contact an independent insurance agent to ensure your vehicle and financial future are adequately protected from the effects of roadway mishaps.
Book Review: The Certainty Illusion
In “The Certainty Illusion: What You Don’t Know and Why It Matters,” Timothy Caulfield delves into the paradox of our times: Unparalleled access to information, yet growing uncertainty about what’s true. Published by Penguin Random House Canada in January 2025, this book is a timely exploration of how misinformation permeates various facets of our lives, from health and wellness to science and public discourse.
Caulfield, a professor at the University of Alberta, is renowned for his work in debunking pseudoscience and clarifying public misconceptions. In this latest offering, he examines how scientific language is often co-opted to lend credibility to unfounded claims, a tactic prevalent in alternative medicine and wellness industries. By dissecting these manipulations, Caulfield empowers readers to critically assess the information they
One of the book’s standout features is its extensive references and notes section. For readers who appreciate diving deeper into the subject matter, this provides a robust framework to explore the topics discussed further. Caulfield’s meticulous documentation not only reinforces his arguments but also serves as a valuable resource for those committed to navigating the complex landscape of modern information.
Early reviews have lauded the book for its clarity and relevance. Dr. Jen Gunter, bestselling author of “The Menopause Manifesto,” describes it as “a brilliant and accessible deep dive into the complexities of our modern misinformation crisis.” Similarly, Daniel J. Levitin (another author in my library), neuroscientist and author of “A Field Guide to Lies,” praises it as “an indispensable book for anyone who wants to avoid believing things that just ain’t
Contributor Don Beaulieu of Springwater Township, has an extensive personal library of books, largely non-fiction from astronomy to geography and geology, archaeology to neuroscience and debunking pseudoscience, which he continually adds to, despite a lack of shelf space. Although a library user, Beaulieu prefers to have books readily available for reference. He considers many of his library books to be in the “Everyone should read this” category and the “This book should be a course in school” category. Magazines and lectures roundout Beaulieu’s passion for what many of us refer to as lifelong learning. Here he tells us about the latest addition to his bedside stack of books.
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New Recipes to Try this Spring
By Allan Britnell, Editor-in-Chief, News Canada
(NC) For many of us, summer is our favourite time of the year. In large part, that’s because we get to enjoy the outdoors – and indulge in picnics, host backyard barbecues or find any excuse we can to gather with friends and family over a meal. Here are four recipes to add to your summer cookout repertoire.
Broccoli & Blueberry Salad
End to End Hike
2. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the dressing and Add broccoli, blueberries, feta and half the bacon to a large bowl
Garnish with remaining bacon, almonds and extra feta if desired. Tip: Make it ahead. Double the recipe for the dressing and keep in an
Many of the ingredients for tasty and nutritious Mexican, Jamaican or Caribbean recipes are grown right here in Ontario, giving you an international flavour with local flair. Try these Mexican tostadas featuring locally grown tomatoes, green onions, celery, parsley, coriander, onion
May 24-26, 2025
Join us this spring for the Blue Mountains Bruce Trail Club 2-day or 3-day End-to-End hike event. Both hikes will wind through the beautiful and varied terrain of the Blue Mountains Club trails. Enjoy the early signs of nature awakening, the beautiful vistas and the rugged escarpment.
Whether you choose the 2-day or 3-day option, both hikes will cover the 69 km distance of our section, which runs from Lavender to Swiss Meadows. Checkpoint stations will be offered ~ every 10 km, offering snacks, water refills, and assistance. The 2-Day hike fee for members is $70 and $80 for non-members and includes bus transportation to the start point each day, refreshments, a Saturday end-of-hike BBQ, online registration fees and the E2E badge. The price for the 3-Day hike is $80 for members and $90 for non-members and includes all the same benefits of the 2-Day and the added cost of busing the extra day.
Registration opens on March 4, 2025. Once registration is received, details will be emailed to participants. Note that these are longer distances and not suitable for beginning hikers.
To register: https://hikes.brucetrail.org/ecwd_calendar/blue-mountains/
Submitted
by Sarah Corrigan
over each. Top with reserved tomato mixture, sour cream and green onions, if using. Serve immediately.
Learn more about Ontario-grown fruits and vegetables at ofvga.org.
Prosciutto & Cheese Flatbread Pizza
This fresh and shareable Prosciutto di Parma and Grana Padano cheese flatbread pizza recipe satisfies hunger cravings and can spark joy in the kitchen. Perfect for family cooking nights or a fun snack to whip up with friends, this recipe is sure to be at your dining table.
Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 - 25 minutes Makes: 4 - 6 servings
INGREDIENTS
500 g (18 oz) prepared pizza dough
3 tbsp (45 ml) olive oil
Fresh rosemary (optional)
Small bunch of arugula
6 slices Prosciutto di Parma
115 g (4 oz) shaved Granda Padano cheese
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (approximately 18” x 13” rimmed baking sheet or larger).
3. Place dough on baking sheet. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to relax and come to room temperature.
4. Drizzle about 2 tbsp (30 ml) of olive oil over the pizza dough.
5. Use your fingers to shape dough into an oval using the full surface of the baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle with fresh rosemary leaves if using.
7. In the preheated oven, bake the dough for 20-25 minutes, or until
Remove from oven and sprinkle arugula evenly over the pizza; then arrange slices of the prosciutto and evenly distribute shaved cheese
Drizzle with remaining olive oil while it’s still warm. Cool slightly before slicing into squares or wedges.
Shopping Tip: If you’re looking for authentic products from Europe (such as Prosciutto di Parma and Grana Padano cheese), look for stamps that have a PDO label. PDO stands for “protected designation of origin,” meaning that it is authentic and produced in the region of origin.
Flaxseed-Crusted Salmon
Want a simple, tasty recipe? Look no further than this protein-packed, flaxseed-crusted salmon. Flaxseeds and salmon are two of the most nutrient-dense foods out there. Both contain an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help decrease inflammation if you live with a chronic condition like arthritis.
Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 12-15 minutes Total time: 25 minutes Makes: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
4 tbsp (60 ml) soy-sauce substitute (such as tamari sauce or liquid aminos)
1½ tbsp (2-3 ml) garlic paste
1 lemon, juiced
1 tbsp (15 ml) Dijon mustard
2 tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 salmon fillets, about 4 oz each
SOLUTION ON PAGE 15
ALLERGIES
APRIL BASKET BUNNY CHEERFUL CHICKS CHIRPING CHOCOLATE CROPS
EARTH DAY EASTER EGGS FAMILY FEAST FERTILISE FRIENDS GARDEN
From the Shores of Georgian Bay
... to the Big Apple!
Izzy Pereira is a professional dancer in New York City who spent her summers on the shores of Georgian Bay in Wasaga Beach, since before she was born.
A dream that began with cartwheels on the beach led her to find success in New York.
Izzy is a leader in her field thanks to the training she received here at home. She attributes her success to her versatility training in all styles such as jazz, ballet, contemporary, hip hop and tap. This has allowed her to be featured in numerous different types of performances, camera work and events across all genres of dance.
Just this past year she was a principal dancer in the contemporary dance short film “Ancestral Shadows” that is currently in the post production phase. Izzy was hand selected to be a dancer in this short film and she was one of only eleven dancers to be featured. Izzy was trusted with being captured in duet scenes for this film where her talent could really shine through. Her professionalism, adaptability and technique allowed her to remain consistent while dancing on set during the long shoot days. Here she worked with the award winning Wolf and Swan company.
She also just completed work as the rehearsal director and assistant to the choreographer for pop star Tash Blake’s European tour. Izzy was the youngest member on Tash Blake’s team, yet was entrusted with great responsibilities such as; demonstrating new dance choreography, ensuring each dance number looked stage ready, leading a dance warm up each day and facilitating all rehearsal spaces.
Izzy has performed on multiple stages in New York, Los Angeles and Toronto and is excited to be performing at Sony Hall in NYC later this month!
When Izzy is home she spends her summers teaching at various studios across Ontario, as well as at Terpsichore National Dance Competition. Izzy is on faculty at Terpsichore Dance Celebration and takes a leading role here as she was the sole opening number choreographer at their Nationals event in 2024. Being one of the youngest faculty members, Terpsichore entrusted Izzy to create a 4 minute opening number with 118 dancers in just 4 days, for their first ever Nationals’ Gala. It was such a success that she was asked to return to this role for their 2025 National event. Izzy was also asked to perform a 3 minute solo at their Gala, inspiring all the young dancers attending the competition with her mature movement quality and emotion evoking performance quality. Even though Izzy was the youngest faculty member at the event, she was given great responsibility and succeeded beyond expectations.
Izzy’s advice to young dancers is to be open to any opportunity that comes your way and to train in all genres of dance from as early on as possible. She is a big advocate of being your own biggest fan, encouraging self confidence and self love whenever she is in charge of a room. It does not matter where you start. Put the work in and your biggest dreams can come true.
Izzy is looking forward to being home this summer to connect with her community and to spend time at her cottage in Wasaga Beach. You can find Izzy on Instagram @ izzy.pereira
Written by Laura Ciarallo
