Hearty Casserole
Prep: 35 min Cook: 40 min Makes: 4-6 servings
INGREDIENTS
½ turnip or rutabaga (your choice)
3 carrots
2 parsnips
2 sweet potatoes
1½ tsp salt (7 ml) divided
¼ cup (60 ml) butter
½ package cream cheese
2 cups (240 g) package panko or breadcrumbs
500 g (1 lb) ground beef or turkey (your choice)
DIRECTIONS
1. Peel and wash the vegetables and cut them into cubes or small chunks.
2. Combine them in a large pot with 1 tsp (5 ml) of salt, cover the top and bring to a boil. Cook until soft enough to pierce through with a fork, checking in on them regularly.
3. While the vegetables are cooking, heat a pan over medium heat. Add ground meat to the pan and cook until it is thoroughly browned, about 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Once meat is fully cooked, remove pan from the heat and drain any excess fat.
5. Drain your vegetables in a strainer, then put them back in the pot.
6. Use a potato masher or any flat kitchen tool to mash the vegetables into a creamy texture. Add butter, cream cheese and remaining salt. Mix well until the batter has a consistency to your liking.
7. Add the browned meat to the vegetable mixture and mix well.
8. Scoop out the mixture and flatten it into a deep 9 x 13-inch dish.
9. Sprinkle the top of the casserole with panko or breadcrumbs.
10. Place in oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Finish by browning the top under the broiler.
Tip: Save the broth when you strain the vegetables for another recipe or as a delicious soup on its own.
Find more recipes and where to find low-cost local produce at foodhero.com.
News Canada
Vegan Burritos
Serves: 4 Prep: 5 mins Cook: 20 mins
INGREDIENTS
1 bag Jasmine Rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic minced
1 cup lion’s mane mushrooms shredded
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 whole-wheat tortillas
1 can black beans rinsed and drained
1 cup corn
1 avocado sliced
1 cup dairy-free cheddar cheese shredded
1 cup salsa fresh cilantro chopped (optional) lime wedges for serving
DIRECTIONS
1. Prepare rice according to package directions.
2. In skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add garlic and saute about 1 minute until fragrant. Add lion’s mane mushrooms to skillet, stirring to combine. Cook about 5 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender and slightly golden. Stir in paprika, cumin, soy sauce, salt and pepper. Cook 2 minutes then remove from heat.
3. In separate skillet, warm tortillas about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Lay one tortilla flat and layer 1/4 cup rice, 1/4 cup beans, 1/4 cup mushroom mixture and 1/4 cup corn with 1/4 of the avocado and 1/4 cup cheese in centre. Top with salsa and fresh cilantro, if desired.
5. Fold sides of tortilla over filling then roll from bottom up to enclose filling completely Repeat with remaining tortillas.
6. Serve burritos warm with lime wedges. culinary.net
Publisher’s Note
Wow, I blinked and the summer months are gone! It certainly was a hot and humid one! It’s back to school for kids already. Thank you to all of our readers, contributors and advertiser’s for your continuing support.
Publisher
Victoria Ledden
Front Cover: Georgian Bay Trail, Collingwood - Picture of bird house. Photo by Victoria Ledden
and Nickel (his unlicensed assistant)
Welcome Autumn
OWNER/PUBLISHER/AD SALES
Victoria Ledden | 705-429-0761 | vledden1@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER/WRITER Don Beaulieu DESIGN Project 818B Marketing | kim@project818b.com MAILING ADDRESS
2-291 Main Street, Suite 434, Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z 0E8 whatsupgb.com
JOHN ARMSTRONG, Sales Representative john@armstrongs4u.com Cell: 705-351-2767
Collingwood Office: 330 First Street Collingwood and THE ARMSTRONG TEAM! Brenda - Cell: 705-828-4571 Candy - Cell: 705-817-1007
Wasaga Beach Office: 1249 Mosley St. Wasaga Beach
NEW KITCHEN CABINETS
Refinish your existing cabinets or install new doors, hardware, sinks, counters, even add to your existing cabinetry.
Showroom: 1470 Mosley St., Unit 5, Wasaga Beach 705-429-9382 info@georgiangraniteworks.ca georgiangraniteworks.ca @GeorgianGW
John
The Master Gardener’s Corner
September
WOW! What a summer, so hot and dry!! Water, water, water whenever you can!
• Trim back perennials like Daylilies and Iris. My mother always cut the iris fans up one side and down the other for a perfect V. But she was a picky gardener. Divide them now as needed.
• Make sure it’s a cool, cloudy day to divide and replant anything, or to pot up plants for your neighbours, or for fall plant sales or plant exchanges.
• Fall is the ideal time to divide and plant Iris, Daylilies, Peonies and many other perennials. Share extra plants with neighbours. To see my YouTube video on dividing and potting up plants, click on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmTTyGNoRB4 but don’t laugh at the old man groaning, as he divides up and pots his perennials.
• Buy and plant spring-flowering bulbs NOW. Your efforts will be handsomely rewarded next spring. Check out the website www. bulbsrus.com for good deals. Dig the hole a little deeper than the specified depth and add some water to the bottom of the hole, then some soil, mix in a little bone meal fertilizer or special bulb food. Sprinkle in a little topsoil, set the bulbs in place and back fill the hole. Take a critical look at your garden, then fill in any gaps that may have developed with new perennials, shrubs and/or evergreens. They will get a huge head-start over plants planted next spring.
• Bring in house plants when the evenings start to cool down. First, give them a thorough spray with insecticidal soap so that there are no unwanted hitchhikers coming into your home.
• Pray for cool nights and hope for fall rains. It’s the ideal time for lawn repair. Dig out weeds, add clean, weed-free topsoil and reseed. Keep the area moist.
• Fertilize lawns with root-building Fall Fertilizer. Buy the one with a low first number (Nitrogen) and high second and third numbers (Phosphorus & Potash). Don’t use the lawn fertilizer you have left over from the spring, with a high first number (Nitrogen). Save it for early next spring.
• With the heat and lack of rain this summer, deep down it is bone dry. Check the moisture levels 14 to 16 inches deep. If the bottom of the hole is dry, water your gardens weekly and deeply until frost. Buy a soaker and put it on the end of your hose. Then place it in the middle of your relatively flat garden beds and let the water slowly seep in.
• Look for the annual Grey County Master Gardener’s fall plant sale, for a wide variety of top flight perennials, Saturday, September 14th from 9am until noon. Again, this year, it’s in Meaford, at the Rotary Pavilion at the Harbour. Choose from unique perennials and lots of native and pollinator plants at reasonable prices. Come early for best selection!
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 tips for a $2 contribution to Master Gardeners, call 519-599-5846.
Submitted by John Hetherington
Green Your School Year
10 TIPS FOR A MORE SUSTAINABLE BACK-TO-SCHOOL
Back-to-school season often means new supplies, new clothes, and a whirlwind of purchases—but it doesn’t have to mean more waste. With a few thoughtful choices, you can set up students for success and help the planet thrive. Here are 10 easy tips for a greener, more sustainable school year.
1. Reuse Before You Buy
Before hitting the store, check last year’s supplies. That half-full notebook or gently used binder can easily make it through another term.
2. Choose Recycled or Sustainable Materials
When you do buy new, opt for recycled paper, refillable pens, and bamboo rulers. These small swaps save resources and reduce landfill waste.
3. Go Digital Where Possible
Use apps for notes, assignments, and calendars to cut down on paper use. Just remember to back up your work!
4. Buy Second-Hand Clothing
Kids grow fast, but fashion can be timeless. Thrift shops, consignment stores, and clothing swaps are budgetfriendly and planet-friendly.
5. Invest in a Reusable Water Bottle
Skip single-use plastic bottles. A durable, BPA-free bottle will last for years and keep drinks cold or hot all day.
6. Pack a Waste-Free Lunch
Use reusable containers, cloth napkins, and stainless steel cutlery. Bonus: it saves money over disposable products in the long run.
7. Walk, Bike, or Carpool
Reducing car trips cuts emissions and eases school traffic. Plus, walking or biking adds daily exercise.
8. Support Local & Eco-Conscious Brands
School supplies from local businesses or eco-friendly companies often have a smaller environmental footprint than mass-produced imports.
9. Teach & Lead by Example
Sustainability is contagious. Encourage children to understand why these choices matter so they carry them forward.
10. Start a School Green Team
If your school doesn’t have one, suggest it! Student-led initiatives can inspire recycling drives, garden projects, and waste-reduction campaigns.
A sustainable back-to-school isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about making better choices where you can. With these tips, you’ll be helping the planet, saving money, and showing the next generation that caring for the Earth is always in style.
Enjoy your Back-to-School —greener and more conscious! LOCAL ACTIONS PRODUCE GLOBAL IMPACT ENGAGE WITH WASAGA BEACH CLIMATE
wasagabeachclimateaction.com info@wasagabeachclimateaction.com
Submitted by Gerard Dusastre
BARRIE . WASAGA
Ride, Walk, Discover: Collingwood Trails by the Bay
With more than 60 kilometres of trails to explore, Collingwood is a yearround paradise for walkers, joggers, cyclists, cross-country skiers and snowshoers. Wherever you want to go in town, chances are there’s a trail that will take you there—whether it’s the George Christie Nature Trails, the shoreline at Sunset Point Park, the scenic views from Millennium Park, the peaceful gardens of the Arboretum, the community labyrinth, the Collingwood Museum, or the charm of Historic Downtown.
The network blends granular paths, concrete and asphalt surfaces, wooden boardwalks, and natural trails, all connecting seamlessly with local cycling routes. Most of the surfaced trails are flat and easy to navigate, making them accessible for visitors of all abilities. Inclusivity and family appeal is combined with historical plaques along the trails. In winter, snowmobiles are permitted on certain signed access trails; otherwise, motorized vehicles are not allowed—keeping the trails safe and tranquil.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll, a family bike ride, or a chance to recharge outdoors, the Collingwood Trails make it easy to stay active and explore the area at your own pace. Benches can be found all along the trails for those who would like to sit and enjoy a particular space, read or perhaps have a rest.
In this issue of What’s Up? Georgian Bay, we offer a glimpse of what a walk from the Awen Waterway Splash Park west to the board walk and Georgian Trail observation deck offer.
During this hot summer we’ve had, the Awen Waterway Splash Park provided a lovely way to keep cool with fountains and a shallow meandering path of water originating at a gentle man-made waterfall. This feature is steps away from the Awen Gathering place, recognizing our native culture. This space has been popular with many groups looking for a place of gathering, peace and contemplation. It has also been the site of more festival-like events featuring native music, singing and dance. Everyone is invited to take place at these celebrations.
Signage in the form of plaques offer insight to wildlife one may see along the way including fish, birds and plants. There are plaques offering historical information and even some artifacts of the past can be found. On the waterfront portions, this is all accompanied by a view of Collingwood Harbour on one side and forest on the other; users are always aware of being immersed in nature.
This section of the trails also leads to the arboretum which is a lovely botanical park which includes genealogy, habitat, common and botanical names of coniferous and deciduous trees, shrubs and plants. Not only is it picturesque, it can be an enjoyable learning stroll.
Along the boardwalk which leads through wetlands at the west end of the harbour, there are some whimsical miniature birdhouses in the trees. These have been decorated by local children and offer some lightheartedness and may be a catalyst for your imagination of fanciful worlds. During a summer walk, the harbour will be home to water and shorebirds such as swans, egrets, sandpipers and more adding to the joy of the numerous songbirds one will see and hear in the forest.
All this is good for the soul.
Editorial by Don Beaulieu
Photos by Don Beaulieu, Julie Sells and Victoria Ledden
How to Build Personal Financial Resilience
(NC) Financial resilience is just as much about health as it is about wealth. Studies show that those with a strong financial foundation are better prepared to handle crises, whether they be personal or a largescale disaster.
Just as we would prepare for a flood or wildfire, financial resilience allows you to weather life’s uncertainties with confidence. Here are a few ways to build your personal financial resilience:
Educate yourself. Understanding your personal finances is the first step to building resilience. Take time to invest in yourself and seek out resources to learn about budgeting, investing and risk management. Look into books, workshops or financial literacy programs that are in your area or available online. A financial advisor is also a great source of information and advice. The more informed you are, the better decisions you can make when facing financial uncertainty.
Build an emergency fund. A financial safety net can be the difference between reassurance and stress in an emergency.
To create an emergency fund, work toward saving enough to cover living expenses for three to six months in an easily accessible account. This can help cover costs such as home repairs or expenses during a job loss.
Create a realistic budget. A proper budget is the foundation of financial resilience. A simple way to make a budget is by subtracting the cost of your monthly expenses from your after-tax income. This gives you a balance to contribute to your savings goals each month. You could also consider creating a spreadsheet or finding a budgeting app that ensures you’re saving consistently and avoiding unnecessary spending.
Plan for retirement. It’s important to think about life after you stop earning your regular wage. Contributing to retirement savings and long-term investments ensures you’re financially prepared for the years ahead. Consider speaking with a financial advisor who can help create a plan that considers your lifestyle and retirement goals.
Get insurance protection. Having the right insurance can prevent a financial crisis in the face of an emergency. Life insurance, for example, is the first line of protection for your loved ones should the unthinkable happen. Review your home, auto and personal insurance policies regularly to ensure you’re adequately covered, especially against climate-related risks such as floods and wildfires.
Explore financial solutions and resources that can help build resilience at cooperators. ca.
Help Young Adults Become Financially Independent
(NC) Raising money-savvy kids may start when they’re beginning school, but the most valuable lessons come when they’re about to leave the nest. Often, the conversation starts around how much financial independence makes sense for them, and for you.
“Whether they’re going away for school or starting to work, you might consider having those discussions about who is paying for what,” says Shawnnette Fraser, an associate VP at TD Wealth.
Create a financial plan together. As they prepare to start independently handling their finances, go over what questions they should ask themselves and how to create a plan based on the answers. Have them consider things like, do they have to work to cover part of their tuition? Will they need a student loan or line of credit to pay for things like food and housing? Will they have to prepare their own tax returns, and have you taught them how to do it? If you put a plan in writing, together, it can help set clear expectations.
Teach youth to be wary of fraud. Managing your own money comes with additional risks. According to a recent survey, 63 per
cent of young adults polled said scams are targeting them now more than ever, especially through social media. 43 per cent said they’d be too embarrassed to tell anyone if they ever fell victim to fraud.
Teach your adult kids to be skeptical of easy money, as well as job and investment scams, and let them know it’s okay to come to you if they feel vulnerable. You can show them security techniques, like setting up two-step verification and signing up for fraud alerts. Help them learn that some of the financial information they’ll find on social media will be biased, misleading or inaccurate. The sooner they learn to spot the signs, the better.
Help them build good financial habits. Learning better financial literacy today helps lay the groundwork for future financial stability. While your kids might not be thinking about life beyond post-secondary education right now, it’s still important to emphasize the value of long-term savings with something like a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA). This could also be a good time to introduce them to the First Home Savings Account (FHSA) and talk about a strategy for using it.
Make sure they understand your finances too. Planning for the future also means being prepared for life’s curveballs. Now that your kids are adults, it might be time to discuss your own retirement and estate plans with them. Bear in mind that these are sensitive conversations—you’ll be the best judge of your child’s readiness.
As kids step into early adulthood, the way you guide them financially will naturally evolve. At this stage, it’s often about supporting them as they find their independence.
No Fruit Involved
in natural flavour, no nutrients either
In Canada, the United States of America and the European Union, natural flavour means: “A flavouring substance obtained by physical, enzymatic, or microbiological processes from a plant, animal, or microbial source.”
It does not have to come from the fruit or plant whose flavour it mimics—it only has to come from a natural source somewhere in the biological world.
Therefore, a natural lemon flavour could be made from compounds extracted from: Lemons, but also oranges, lemongrass, yuzu (citrus cousins) and some non-citrus plants, yeast, or bacteria that make the same molecules. But that’s not all...
LEMON FLAVOUR WITHOUT THE LEMON
The main lemony note is citral (actually a mix of two aldehydes: geranial and neral). Citral can be extracted from lemongrass oil or litsea cubeba fruit which are less expensive than lemons. It could be produced by yeast or bacteria engineered to make citral from sugar. It could be made by enzymes breaking down other natural oils into citral.
All of these can legally be sold as natural lemon flavour if the citral came from a biological process, even if no lemons were ever involved.
Natural flavours can be made using protein/enzyme-based production. Some of these flavours come from precision fermentation—where microbes such as yeast are programmed with genetic instructions to make a flavour compound. For example:
• Vanillin (vanilla’s main compound) from engineered yeast fed on corn sugar
• Nootkatone (grapefruit aroma) from enzymes acting on valencene (from orange oil)
• Methyl anthranilate (grape aroma) from fermentation of glucose with certain bacteria
The microbe or enzyme does the chemistry nature normally does in the plant—without the plant.
BENEFITS OF MANUFACTURE
Lemons have low citral yield whereas lemongrass or yeast are far more efficient.
Stability: Microbial production can be consistent year-round, unaffected by weather.
Sustainability: Uses less land, water, and transport.
Purity: You can isolate the key aroma compound without unwanted bitterness or instability from whole-fruit extracts.
DOWNSIDES AND CONTROVERSIES
Consumer perception: People often assume natural lemon flavour means squeezed from lemons. The legal definition doesn’t match our intuitive one.
Complexity is missing: A real lemon’s aroma comes from dozens of compounds; a singlenote citral flavour can taste flat.
Labelling opacity: You can’t tell from the ingredient list whether your natural lemon flavour came from lemons, lemongrass, or yeast in a fermentation tank.
There are many sources that can be used in lemon flavouring, including pine trees, which can be found in lemon soda. Pinene from pine oil can be rearranged into compounds that read as citrus to your nose. Your natural lemon sparkling water might literally be part Christmas tree.
Coriander seeds can portray a lemonade flavour. Coriander seed oil is linalool-rich and contains aldehydes that mimic lemon peel’s floral sweetness.
Turpentine provides limonene. Distilled turpentine (from pine resin) contains limonene identical to that in citrus peels—perfectly legal to label as natural flavour if the source was a plant.
NO HEALTH BENEFIT
The flavour compounds citral, limonene, linalool, et cetera, are aroma molecules, not nutrients. They don’t contain meaningful vitamins, minerals, or calories in the tiny amounts used for flavouring. A drink flavoured with natural lemon flavour has essentially zero vitamin C, unless vitamin C is added separately and listed in the nutrition panel.
Marketing folk know that flavour cues can trick the brain: Lemon flavour triggers associations with fresh fruit, sunshine, and healthiness. Your brain may subconsciously connect “tastes like lemon” with “probably has vitamin C” meaning “healthy choice,” even though chemically that link isn’t there. This effect is amplified by product design—yellow packaging, pictures of citrus slices, words like “refreshing” or “boost.” Making matters worse, lemonade drinks often contain more sugar than the same amount of soft drink.
These are the same basic premises that support the children’s breakfast cereal market... Tricking our brains and satisfying our senses (and creating cravings) without providing nutrients and therefore perhaps causing harm.
As with natural medicines, the sad truth is hidden in the science behind the marketing and its implications of healthiness.
TAKING FROM THE ROMAN RUINS
The Roman empire has begun its fall, To it the barbarians call, Along comes a bearded man seeking denarri, Which was the equivalent to modern day currency, Getting that has become an urgency, For he has grown hungry, Resources he will seek, So his next day will not be bleak, However he sees another barbarian man, Coming to take from this land, The opposing one dismounts, For he is the one that must count, They draw their swords to fight over what is there, For each ones necessities have become bare, Finally the previous rider has lost his sword, Knowing he will not hoard, So he runs away,
As the bearded barbarian takes what is there, To avoid a scare,
As it is for the barbarians and the bruins, Taking from the Roman ruins.
Ryan P. Barnett
RESILIENCE
The leaves dance with the breeze. The sun dapples and sparkles and they are free!
Protection and strength they offer, even after they fall. They can house the birds, critters, insects and all!
Resilience and beauty, despite their disregard. God is showing us he holds the cards.
So if your world is cold, and your dreams don’t come true, Look up to the trees and remember. God is still here to help the holy through.
For here there is light, and there is dark. So stay in light, if only in your heart!
Elaine
MY FATHER
My father’s passing Left me with a void I had only heard of.... Once.
An ache of moments past Colliding into one huge flood Of memories long tucked away, For just this Uncontrolled second I was lost, A sea of emotion, Regrets not confronted, Love unsaid, Forgiveness too late. Did I really know my father? Or is it a journey I have yet to take?
Debra Black
Poetry Corner
AFTER LABOUR DAY
It’s Labour Day, it’s Labour Day The last of Summer’s holiday Our happy days will go away After Labour Day
It’s back to school, with books and rules No time for boys who play the fool It’s time for work, not for play After Labour Day
The mothers smile, while all the while The children whine and wail All parents know their holiday Starts after Labour Day
The orchards hum, the pickers come It’s apple harvest time It’s time to pack the fruit away After Labour Day
The hay’s all in, grain’s bagged, or binned The colour’s on the trees We’ll get some chilly Autumn days After Labour Day
And just when we have given in To Winter’s stern approach The glorious Indian Summer plays After Labour Day
But once the kids are back in school
The orchards bare and clean We know that snow’s not far away After Labour Day
Robert G. Adams - August, 1996
Autumn In Preparation And Celebration... A Time For Rest, Reflection, Memories Of Summers Past… Peacefulness Of The Winter Snow… To Once Again Breathe In Spring Birth Of Life... How Truly Beautiful...
Wendy D Pogue
Bella’s Italian Cafe & Beyond
Cappuccinos, Cannoli, and Community
Wishes come true. For those of us in and around Wasaga Beach who have been looking for a decent Italian cafe, it has arrived. Bella’s Italian Cafe & Beyond held their grand opening last month. With its central location on Mosley Street, Bella’s has quickly become a favourite eatery with many regular customers in the first few weeks, even before the official opening ceremonies.
Owners Maria MacPherson and Alex Franceschini are excited and encouraged by the positive response and repeat business ahead of the ribbon cutting event. On August 14th, dignitaries were on hand, media folk, customers in-the-know and curious new patrons. Music was playing inside, there was a photo-booth set up by DJNation Canada and an endless provision of food samples. The atmosphere was nothing short of festive.
Before much of that got underway inside, there was a welcome from town council and ribbon cutting outside the front door. Mayor Brian Smith presented a congratulatory certificate, saying, “On behalf of The Corporation of the Town of Wasaga Beach, we convey our sincere congratulations and good wishes to Bella’s Italian Cafe & Beyond on the occasion of your grand opening, August 14, 2025.
“I can’t tell you how excited, not only council but the citizens that I hear from already in this town are glad you are here. This is what the town needs, you’ve got Anna (Olson) and you’ve got Kaitlyn (Monsma) here, economic development officers, to help you with anything. Don’t be afraid to reach out to any of us; our sincere congratulations, we’re so happy to have you as part of the team.”
Many attendees were very familiar with the cafe already, having been back numerous times. They thought they’d found their favourite dishes, but the selection of samples being brought out had them finding rivals for that top spot.
Family is important to MacPherson and Franceschini with many on hand for this busy day. Daughters Gemma, Natalie and Natashia, son Angelo and more, including Trinity Johnston along with a niece or two. Everyone was cheerily welcoming and accommodating, and seemingly on the move. Sheree Facey in the kitchen was praised for her sandwich making skills, preparing them with a smile and warm welcome.
MacPherson has a background as a Personal Support Worker and has been involved in previous family owned businesses. She says “It’s been an interesting journey, the past 13 to 14 years.” Bella’s Italian Cafe & Beyond is Franceschini’s idea and in fact he affectionately calls MacPherson “Bella”, hence the cafe’s name.
Those of us who are more discerning will appreciate that Bella’s pasta is made fresh. You may not find the same flavour of pasta flavour one day to the next... but it will be delicious. If you are not hungry for a full meal, there is the dessert counter of Italian pastries and desserts
to lure you in. And have you coming back. Bottled and canned products are available for sale, oils and olives et al.
Editor’s Note: The veal sandwich, strawberry shortcake and chocolate biscotti are Victoria’s favourite!
Members of Wasaga Beach town council participated in the official ribbon cutting at Bella’s Italian Cafe & Beyond on August 14th. From left to right with the ribbon are Joe Belanger, Tanya Snell, owners Maria MacPherson and Alex Franceschini, Mayor Brian Smith, Faye Ego and Sasha Rose Dileo. Two pair of scissors were used, with the piece cut between Franceschini and Smith able to be saved for posterity along with the commemorative plaque.
Owners of Bella’s Italian Cafe & Beyond, Maria MacPherson and Alex Franceschini are seen here as Wasaga Beach Mayor Brian Smith presents them with a commemorative plaque and offers congratulations from himself, councillors and his economic development team.
and
Sarah Light is a fan of Bella’s Italian Cafe & Beyond, having visited eight-or-so times before the official grand opening. Before encountering the tasting samples presented during the opening event, veal on pasta was Light’s favourite dish. This day though, she discovered she likes sausage and “The cannoli is amazing at Bella’s. I’ve never liked cannoli, until this.” She also insists “The fresh pastas of the day that they bring in are delicious.” Light owns Portside Salon & Barbershop, just down the road and says her car will not let her pass Bella’s without stopping in. Lots of visitors had a similar experience, finding
Submitted by Don Beaulieu
Maria Macpherson
Alex Franceschini, owners of Bella’s Italian Cafe & Beyond proudly show off their congratulatory plaque from the Town of Wasaga Beach along with the centre bit of the ribbon, as a souvenir.
Bella’s is located at 828 Mosley Street in Wasaga Beach.
Shut Up and Listen
If you’re just joining us, welcome to the trail. This isn’t your average read, and it’s definitely not a therapy session where someone asks, “And how does that make you feel?” (Don’t worry—there’s no couch here, just dirt, trees, and maybe a curious squirrel or two.)
This Shut Up and Listen series is about cutting through the chaos and letting Nature offer the kind of support most of us didn’t realize we needed. No appointments, no waiting room, no small talk. Just real, grounded guidance—delivered in moss, wind, and the occasional goose honk.
In the past few issues, we’ve explored how stepping outside helps you show up more fully inside—less frantic, more focused. And each month, I’ll keep pulling simple, bite-sized reflections straight from my book Shut Up and Listen—think of it as practical trail wisdom for your everyday life.
So whether you’re skimming this while walking the dog or sitting on the back porch with a coffee, stay with me. This month, we’re handing over the clipboard and letting the trees do the talking.
Nature’s Your Therapist –No Waiting Room Required!
Feeling stressed, stuck, or just plain out of sorts? Skip the couch and head outside—Nature’s open for walk-ins. No appointment necessary, no awkward silences, and best of all, it’s free.
Step into the great outdoors and let the sun, trees, or even a random squirrel provide the therapy. The rustling leaves? That’s Nature whispering, “You’ve got this.” Birds chirping? A motivational playlist. And the sky stretching endlessly above? Proof that your worries aren’t as big as they seem.
Unlike your group chat, Nature won’t interrupt, overshare, or hit you with unsolicited advice. It’s the best listener around, offering peace without saying a word.
So, next time life feels overwhelming, ask yourself: Have I booked a session with my “outdoor therapist” yet? Because sometimes, all it takes is a deep breath, a little dirt under your feet, and the reminder that you’re part of something bigger—and a lot quieter.
Shrimp Spaghetti
Let Nature do the Talking!
Book Your Appointment
No need to call ahead; Nature’s always open. Step outside, whether it’s a park, your backyard, or even a patch of grass near the office.
Let Nature Speak
Stand still for a moment and just listen. The waves on shore? That’s your relaxation soundtrack. The chirping of chipmunks? They’re your personal cheer squad. Don’t overthink it—Nature’s therapy is less about analyzing your feelings and more about feeling your surroundings.
Engage with Your “Therapist”
Take a walk, hug a tree, or sit and stare at the sky. Notice the small things: the way the sunlight hits the grass, or the oddly satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot. Nature’s a pro at grounding you—literally.
Jot Down the Good Vibes
Write down one thing that lightened your load. Just “the grass smelled nice” works. Congratulations, you’ve just completed a session with zero awkward small talk and an open calendar to see you again soon.
NATURE’S WAITING
Unlocking Nature’s wisdom is like finding the secret door to a calmer, clearer you. A little time outdoors can lower stress hormones, reduce anxiety, and even lower blood pressure. It clears out the noise, kicks stress to the curb, and gives you a confidence boost you didn’t even know you needed.
And that’s exactly why this column exists. Keep tuning in each month as we crack open more of Nature’s code and start showing up as the best version of ourselves—wild bits and all.
Raven is an inspirational speaker, author, storyteller, and educator whose deep love for Nature winds through everything she creates. From guiding immersive outdoor retreats and leading down-to-earth workshops to producing story-rich albums and podcasts (available on all major platforms), her work is all about helping people unplug from the noise and reconnect with what really matters.
Servings 6 INGREDIENTS
1 pound spaghetti noodles
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup avocado oil
1 package raw shrimp 12 ounces
2 tablespoons garlic powder divided
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 cup frozen or fresh spinach bread for serving
Her latest book, Shut Up and Listen: A No BS Guide to Unlocking Nature’s Wisdom in 31 Days, is now available at Amazon.ca and through her website at www.ravenspeaks.ca, where you’ll find everything she offers—all in one place.
DIRECTIONS
Submitted by Raven Murphy
1. Cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions.
2. In skillet over medium heat, add butter, avocado oil and shrimp. Mix in 1 tablespoon garlic powder and paprika. Remove shrimp after they begin to turn pink; set aside.
3. Add chicken broth, Parmesan, heavy cream, remaining garlic powder, onion powder and spinach to skillet and mix well. Add shrimp back to skillet to finish cooking. Mix in noodles and serve with bread. culinary.net
Simple Recipe Swaps for a Healthier You
(Family Features) If the idea of overhauling your family’s menu is stopping you from making healthier choices in the kitchen, you might find relief in knowing simple swaps are all it takes. Instead of sweeping changes that require all new recipes, just changing an ingredient or two in your favourite dishes can put you on a path toward better nutrition.
You can boost the nutritional value of meals and support your heart health by making smart substitutions – like using whole grains, healthy oils and lower-sodium options – to reduce saturated fat, added sugars and sodium while adding beneficial nutrients like fiber, protein and healthy fats.
Another nutrition-conscious swap you can make easily is opting for fat-free or low-fat plain Greek yogurt in place of full-fat sour cream and other dairy products. A single serving typically provides 10 or more grams of protein and roughly 13% of the daily recommended value of calcium. In fact, a balanced diet that includes regular consumption of unsweetened, nonfat, plain yogurt for individuals with hypertension may help improve blood pressure outcomes.
Start doing your heart a favour with these favourites that replace full-fat ingredients with low-fat or nonfat Greek yogurt, helping you reduce calorie intake and fat content without compromising flavour.
A diet that involves smart swaps like these may contribute to heart health, by providing essential nutrients and supporting healthy blood pressure levels – meaning you’re just a few ingredient substitutions away from enjoying a more nutritious, yet still delicious menu.
Discover more easy, flavour-packed ways to make your favourite recipes healthier for your heart at heart.org/eatsmart.
Tropical Parfaits
Servings 4
INGREDIENTS
1 medium mango peeled and chopped
2 cups nonfat plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup low-fat no-added-sugar granola
1/2 cup diced pineapple
1 medium banana sliced
1/4 cup pomegranate seeds or arils
2 tablespoons unsweetened flaked coconut
DIRECTIONS
1. In each parfait glass, layer 1/4 mango, 1/4 cup yogurt, 1 tablespoon granola, 2 tablespoons pineapple, 1/4 banana slices and 1/4 cup yogurt. Top with remaining granola. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and coconut.
2. Serve immediately for peak flavour and texture.
Frozen Yogurt Bark
Servings 8
INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 cups vanilla Greek yogurt low fat, nosugar-added
2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons chopped unsalted almonds
1/2 cup finely chopped mango
1/2 cup blueberries
1/4 cup blackberries or raspberries chopped if large
DIRECTIONS
1. In medium bowl, whisk yogurt and honey until combined.
2. Line 13-by-9-by-2-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Using spatula or knife, spread yogurt mixture over paper as thinly as possible.
3. Sprinkle almonds over yogurt mixture. Using fingertips, gently press almonds into yogurt mixture.
4. Sprinkle with mango, blueberries and raspberries. Using fingertips, gently press fruit into yogurt mixture.
5. Cover dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Freeze overnight.
6. For serving, remove baking dish from freezer. Gently lift parchment paper from dish and transfer to cutting board. Using hands, break bark into pieces or hit lightly on surface of cutting board. Serve immediately as bark begins to melt 15 minutes after removing from freezer.
Oatmeal Parfaits
Servings 4
INGREDIENTS
2 cups sliced hulled strawberries fresh or frozen, thawed and patted dry if frozen
2 cups blueberries, halved blackberries or both fresh or frozen, thawed and patted dry if frozen
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon, honey
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 cups water
1 cup uncooked rolled oats
2 cups nonfat plain Greek yogurt
DIRECTIONS
1. In medium bowl, gently stir strawberries, blueberries, honey and cinnamon.
2. In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring water and oats to boil. Boil 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In each parfait glass, layer 1/4 cup oatmeal, 1/4 cup fruit mixture, 1/4 cup yogurt and 1/4 cup fruit mixture. Repeat layers.
Mind. Body. Spirit.
Best Practices to Care for Your Eyes
(NC) Our eyes are constantly at work, whether it’s the strain from looking at glowing screens, squinting from the sun, or drying out from indoor air vents. Unfortunately, eye health often gets overlooked in our daily routines. However, there are effective habits that can help protect your eyes at any stage of life.
Make sure you’re eating well. A diet rich in vitamins A and C can help your eye health. Your body uses vitamin A to help build the rod cells in the retina that make it easier to see in low light. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help protect against cell damage. These nutrients can be found in carrots, leafy greens, citrus fruits and sweet potatoes. Take it easy on your eyes. Staring at computers and phones for hours can lead to tired, blurry eyes and headaches. Your eyes have to work harder to read text on a screen, especially if you’re viewing it from the wrong angle, or in poor lighting.
To give your eyes a break, try the 20-20-20 trick: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Additionally, consider using blue light glasses or adjusting your screen settings to reduce harsh glare. Keep your eyes protected. From a day at
the beach to working on a new DIY project, protective eyewear is a simple but important way to keep your eyes and vision safe. Sunglasses with UV protection help prevent long-term sun damage, while safety goggles are crucial for shielding your eyes from potential injury when working with tools and chemicals, or during high-impact activities.
Get your eyes checked regularly. Regular, preventative eye exams should be part of everyone’s health routine. Even if your vision
New Food Allergies After 50?
WHAT YOU NEED TO WATCH FOR
(NC) It’s one thing to be cautious about cholesterol and blood pressure after 50, but what if a favourite food suddenly leaves you gasping for breath or covered in hives?
Surprisingly, adult-onset food allergies are more common than you might think, according to Dr. Harold Kim, an allergist and immunologist. “It’s not unusual to see someone in their 60s react to shellfish or nuts. Your immune system evolves with age, and that can mean new sensitivities.”
COMMON TRIGGERS AND SYMPTOMS
The most common food allergens include crustaceans, tree nuts, peanuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, sesame and fish. “Shellfish and fish are particularly common in adults developing allergies for the first time,” says Dr. Kim. “You could have enjoyed lobster your whole life and suddenly develop an allergy at 58.”
Symptoms can vary from mild to severe, typically appearing within minutes to two hours after eating. Watch for tingling or itching in the
mouth, hives or rash on the face or throat, vomiting, or shortness of breath or wheezing.
If you’ve recently experienced these symptoms after a meal, don’t shrug it off—experts recommend seeing your doctor promptly. “Don’t wait for a second reaction,” urges Dr. Kim. “The next one may be more severe.”
WHAT TO DO NEXT
Diagnosis involves food history, blood tests and sometimes supervised food challenges. While avoidance is key, having an emergency plan is crucial, including carrying a safety device like an EpiPen, which delivers epinephrine used to treat a severe or lifethreatening allergic reaction.
For anyone at risk of anaphylaxis, quick access to epinephrine is critical,
seems fine, checkups help catch conditions like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Early detection means better outcomes and fewer disruptions to your daily life. Canada’s population is aging rapidly, and AMD is the leading cause of vision loss among older adults, affecting nearly 2.5 million Canadians. Dry AMD is the most common form of the disease, making up 85–90 per cent of cases.
There’s a treatment option available for the condition: MacuMira is the first medical device approved by Health Canada to address it, and which has been shown to reverse some of its effects on eyesight. It’s currently the only treatment available, and one way to support your long-term retinal health and maintain vision.
Supporting your eye health doesn’t require major changes. Small, consistent steps can make all the difference. From smart screen habits and nutrition to regular checkups, taking care of your eyes today can help you maintain clear, healthy vision for years to come.
Learn more at macumira.com.
but especially for older individuals with other health conditions.
You can also make lifestyle adjustments, including reading labels, wearing a medical ID and asking about ingredients when you eat out. You can find more tips and information at epipen.ca.
The Effects of Bullying on Our Youth
Approximately 30% of Canadian children and teens report experiencing bullying each year! (ref: Canadian Institute for Health Information and Statistics Canada). This figure indicates that a significant number of young people encounter bullying in various forms, highlighting the need for ongoing awareness and intervention strategies to address this issue. Let’s discuss the issues our children and teens experience from bullying.
1. Physical Health Problems: Bullying can lead to physical issues, such as headaches, stomach aches, sleep disturbances, and chronic stress.
2. Mental Health Impact: Victims of bullying often experience anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. These mental health issues can persist into adulthood, affecting their overall well-being. Approximately 49% of children and teens who are bullied report experiencing anxiety and depression. (Ref: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health)
3. Academic Challenges: Students who are bullied may struggle to concentrate in school, leading to declining academic performance and a reluctance to attend school, which can affect their education opportunities. Statistics Canada found that children who are bullied are twice as likely to have academic difficulties, with studies showing that bullied students often experience decreased concentration, lower grades, and higher rates of absenteeism from school.
4. Social Isolation: Bullying often results in social withdrawal. Victims may struggle to make friends or feel isolated from their peers, exacerbating feelings of loneliness.
5. Peer Relationships: Bullying can disrupt healthy peer relationships, creating a toxic environment in schools and communities, and leading to long-term issues in social interactions. It can also lead to anti-social behaviours such as drug use or crime.
Cyberbullying has become more prevalent with the rise of social media. Let’s consider the issues with this form of bullying.
Victims can feel trapped, as online harassment can occur at any time and is often relentless. It is unlike in-person bullying, which is often limited to certain environments. The ability for bullies to remain anonymous online can lead to more aggressive behaviour, as the consequences feel less immediate or personal. As well, there is a wider audience to deal with. Online posts can reach a larger audience quickly, amplifying the humiliation and emotional distress experienced by victims.
The lack of physical presence can intensify the harmful effects significantly. The absence of face-to-face interaction can make cyberbullying particularly hurtful and isolating, as victims may feel that their pain is not acknowledged by others. Finally, the long-term effects can be significant. The emotional and psychological impact of cyberbullying can persist long after the incidents occur, often leading to long-term mental health issues.
So as parents, how can we help our children and teens deal with bullying? Educate your child or teen about bullying. Discuss what it is and ensure children understand they need to report bullying behaviour to a parent or adult right away. Many victims feel they can’t report bullying due to fear of retaliation or disbelief from adults. Some report that there are few consequences imposed on bullies. This fact discourages children and teens from reporting bullying at times.
As well, maintaining open communication with your child or teen with regular check ins to hear about their day is quite beneficial. Encourage discussions about their concerns and ensure they know they aren’t alone.
Most importantly, if you notice your child or teen is struggling emotionally or physically, reach out for support. Learning effective strategies and coping skills can be very effective for children and teens who are being bullied. Remember knowledge is power.
Wendy Hunter, Registered Psychotherapist Whunter63@gmail.com
Come to our Fun-Filled 4th Annual PraiseFest
With four performances throughout the day this popular show is a “must see” for kids and adults alike. Visit praisefest.ca and collingwoodchristadelphians.ca for more information.
Experience our 4th Annual PraiseFest! Enjoy a FREE Family Day of Fun. There will be Live Christian Music, Free Bibles and Children’s Materials, Hourly FREE Raffles, a Puppet Theatre, Face Painting, Freezies, Popcorn, Candyfloss and Carnival Games. Visit praisefest.ca and collingwoodchristadelphians.ca for more information.
PRAISEFEST - A DAY OF PRAISE AND PEACE
God wants to bring peace to the world, and the bible states throughout that God has a real plan for universal peace! As a matter of fact, God’s Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who is also called the “Prince of Peace,” plays a major role in putting together a universal and everlasting peace that will bring to an end this world’s current hostility.
If you can’t make it to PraiseFest this year, please contact us: PraiseFest.ca or CollingwoodChristadelphians.ca for more information.
Photos submitted by PraiseFest
Hear great Christian music from a variety of artists throughout the afternoon! Visit praisefest.ca and collingwoodchristadelphians.ca for more information.
Don’t Miss the Puppet Show!
Smokey Notes or Smokey Nopes
The Impact of Forest Fires on Wines
There’s nothing quite like sipping a lovely glass of wine on a warm summer evening. Unfortunately, this summer also brought wildfires, which have become more frequent and intense worldwide. These fires don’t just threaten landscapes—they can also impact vineyards, where grapes act like sponges and soak up the smoke.
But what exactly makes wine taste like an ashtray? According to Cole Cerrato, a food science chemist who studies the impact of smoke exposure on grapes at Oregon State University, this unpleasant taste arises when grape skins absorb volatile chemicals from the smoke. In the pulp, they bind with sugars, forming compounds responsible for “smoke taint.”
“It’s different than barrel aging, where you can get hints of smoke or woodiness. Smoke taint is a lot more aggressive on the palate,” remarked Cerrato. This predominately affects red wines, particularly Pinot Noir, though white wines can also be affected.
DIFFICULT TO PREDICT
Winemakers can’t always tell the extent of impact by just tasting grapes; factors such as fire distance, wind speed, and sunlight exposure all play a role. Moreover, the impact might not reveal itself until fermentation or later, during the aging process, when sugarbound phenols break free, releasing the unmistakable smoky taste.
“We’ve known that the phenols and the bound phenols were not the end of the story,” said Cerrato. In his quest to understand smoke taint, Cerrato built makeshift greenhouses to expose grapes to smoke and then made wine from the harvest. Using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, he and his colleagues found a new class of sulphur-containing phenols, thiophenols—normally found in meat and fish, but not wine—that contributed to the distinct flavour of smoke-impacted wine.
Mitigation strategies, such as spray coatings, can help block the unpleasant effects of smoke. However, there is a need for more selective approaches and a deeper understanding of the chemistry behind these compounds in order to maintain wine quality without compromising flavour. There’s still plenty to uncork when it comes to keeping smoke out of a bottle of wine.
In Canada, most research focuses on British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, where smoke taint has been well documented. For example, several wineries in the 2021 vintage chose to skip bottling entirely due to smoke contamination.
ONTARIO-SPECIFIC
RISKS AND MEASURES
Ontario wine regions—including Niagara Peninsula—typically experience much lower smoke exposure than British Columbia, making smoke taint less common.
Volatile phenols (like guaiacol and cresols) from wildfire smoke are absorbed by developing grape skins and bind with sugars inside the fruit. These bound compounds are odourless at first but can be released during fermentation or even in the mouth during tasting, creating harsh, ashy, or medicinal flavours.
The risk varies extensively by timing, vineyard proximity to heavy smoke, grape variety, and even micro-climate—one vineyard row may be tainted while the next is unaffected.
While Ontario isn’t usually heavily impacted, strong smoke plumes from the prairies, Quebec or northern Ontario fires could still affect grapes during sensitive stages such as veraison (when the grapes
change colour and start ripening).
Most initial exposure likely falls under “smoke-affected” rather than fully smoke-tainted—meaning light smoky complexity may occur without being a fault. This distinction is crucial, as consumer tolerance or preference for slight smokiness varies.
Ontario wineries concerned about smoke exposure may:
• Test grapes early using handheld devices or micro-fermentation trials
• Employ techniques like hand harvesting, whole-cluster pressing, minimized skin contact, and cool processing to reduce phenol extraction.
• Post-harvest, winemakers may use carbon fines, reverse osmosis, blending, or choose to release wines intended for early consumption— accepting lower tannins and focusing on freshness.
AROUND GEORGIAN BAY
Much of our smoke around Georgian Bay has travelled from Saskatchewan and Manitoba. The distance travelled is far enough for photochemical aging to have taken place. The ultraviolet in sunlight, along with atmospheric antioxidants (ozone, hydroxyl) break down the smoky aromatics we associate with wood fires. We end up with smaller aldehydes, keones and acids that smell sharper and more chemical-like or acrid.
Even after photochemical aging, some phenols remain (or are converted into other phenols) that vines can still absorb. Research from Australia and California suggests that smoke hundreds of kilometres away are less likely to cause smoke taint, but it’s not impossible, especially if exposure lasts for days during sensitive growth stages.
Even if the air smells more chemical than smoky, some taint-precursor molecules might still be present, so the vineyard risk doesn’t disappear entirely.
In the end, Ontario’s wines may dodge the smoke—leaving only the barbecue to taste like barbecue and as for notes of campfire in your next Cabernet, may it come from the barrel, not the boreal.
Submitted by Don Beaulieu
Autumn Arrives
APPLES AUTUMN BACKPACK
BOOKS BUSES COMMUNITY
COOL FAMILY
FOOTBALL FRIENDS
HARVEST HOMEWORK
LABOUR DAY
LEARNING LITERACY
LUNCHBOX
NATURE NURSERY RAIN RECESS SCHOOL
Ants Invading?
Once in a lifetime you will be likely challenged by ants invading your home or yard. These tiny insects live in big colonies. So if you see one, the others are close by! Get ready for the invasion!
Ants enter homes primarily looking for food, water, and shelter. They are particularly attracted to sweet and protein-rich foods. Once the scout ant discovers a food source, it leaves a chemical trail that allows other workers to follow the same path, explaining those characteristic and lines marching across your floor. Their activities increase in warm weather or rainy periods when they are either seeking cooler environment or escaping flooded nests. Understanding these patterns help target and control efforts more effectively throughout the year. Since they are most active in spring and summer, act before you have an infestation!
Removing ants is not as simple as blasting them with pesticide. These chemicals have harmful side effects on humans. To get rid off them, you need a good strategy that includes extermination and prevention. Chemical pesticides offer a quick solution, but they often contain harmful toxins that pose risks to children, pets, and the environment. Fortunately, nature provides many effective alternatives eliminating ants without using dangerous chemicals.
PREVENTION
Tighten up your home. Fill any gaps in the basement floors and walls with caulk (look for low VOC varieties) and grout.
Seal entry points:
• copper mesh (ants won't chew through it)
• weather stripping for doors and windows
• wood putty for larger holes in wooden structures
Keep your home clean:
• Keep food in tightly sealed containers.
• Wipe down countertops every day.
• Remove food that spills on the sides of and behind the stove.
From the kitchen cupboards:
Cinnamon is an excellent ant repellent; its strong aroma masks scent trails and its natural compounds irritate ants' respiratory system.
• Sprinkle a continuous line of ground cinnamon along entry points.
• Place cinnamon sticks in cabinets, pantries or any potential entry points.
Coffee grounds
• Sprinkle used coffee grounds along entry points.
• Place small containers of coffee grounds in problem areas like kitchen or corners.
Diatomaceous Earth is non-toxic to humans and pets. Use the food grade version to eliminate the ants.
• Sprinkle lightly around appliances, cabinet corners and other hidden places.
• Reapply after cleaning or if the powder becomes wet as moisture reduces its effectiveness.
Mint is a great natural compound. The strong scent interferes with the ants' ability to follow the pheromone trails and usually they prefer to avoid.
• Grow potted peppermint, spearmint or catmint near entry points like windows and doors.
• Keep compost bins away from the walls. Also attack ant breeding and living area's by filling holes in walls and floors, removing piles of cardboard and paper bags inside and around your home. Do not forget to eliminate general clutter! Ants are attracted to moisture. Repair pipes, hoses, air conditioning units and gutters. Fix indoor leaks. Especially carpenter ants thrive in most environments.
ELIMINATE
Natural Ant Repellent Solutions
White vinegar is a great ant eliminator with its strong acid content. When you spray on surfaces, it disrupts trails ants use to navigate.
• Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• Add 10-15 drops of peppermint or tea tree essential oil in the solution for more effective result.
Lemon juice contains di- limonen. This natural compound destroys the ants waxy coating and dehydrates them. Also the strong citrus scent interferes with their trail communication.
• Squeeze 4-5 lemons into 2 cups of water
• Adding lemon peels to the mixture gives extra strength
• Before using the solution, let sit overnight, then strain into a spray bottle.
Essential oils provide powerful deterrent as their strong scent mask their trails and irritate or repel them.
• Peppermint oil: Use 10-15 drops with 2 cups of water in a spray bottle. Apply to entry points, cabinets, and ant trails.
• Tea tree oil: Add 10 drops to 1 cup of water. What makes it effective is the oil's antibacterial properties.
• Cloves oil: Combine 10-15 drops with 2 cups of water. Very effective against larger species.
• Eucalyptus oil: Add 20 drops to 2 cups of water. Spray the solution at their entry.
SAFETY TIP: Always dilute essential oils properly, especially in homes with children and pets! Avoid applying undiluted oils directly to surfaces as some oils can damage finishes and fabrics.
• Place fresh mint leaves in cabinets, pantries and hidden places.
Cucumber peels contain an acid that ants find repellent.
• Place fresh cucumber peels in antprone areas.
Citrus peels contain d-limonene which is toxic to ants.
• Grind dried citrus peels into a powder and sprinkle around perimeters. These repellents are effective for only 1-2 days, as they loose their effectiveness when they dry out.
Bay leaves have a very strong natural compound to repel ants.
• Place whole leaves in cabinet, pantries and near entry points. Cloves create effective barriers.
Sage can be scattered in problem areas (dried or fresh leaves).
Basil plant can prevent entry points. Have a small basil pot close to your doors and on your window sills.
MAINTAIN AND MONITOR
Establish regular prevention routines and track results. For best results combine immediate treatment methods (vinegar sprays) with long-term solutions (entry point sealing). Spring often requires more aggressive prevention as colonies become active, while autumn may need focus on entry point sealing before ants seek indoor shelter for winter.
While natural methods are effective, certain situations need professional help. Select an eco-friendly pest control service. Ask what specific products will be used and if they offer a guarantee that includes followup visits if needed.
Many natural solutions work effectively as preventative measures. Regular cleaning with vinegar, maintaining herb plants at entry points, seasonal application of diatomaceous earth around appliances and keeping food properly stored, all help prevent infestation.
Do your best to keep your home pest free!
Edit Baker Greencleanercanada 519-938-1702 grcleaner@gmail.com
FALL WHEELS
HOW TO INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR CAR BEFORE SELLING
(BPT) - Thinking about selling your car on your own? Although selling a car yourself can be challenging, it’s a great way to possibly get more money from your used vehicle than a dealer’s trade-in offer might provide.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade to a newer model or simply want to add cash to your savings account, your top priority should be getting the highest possible value for your car. Luckily, there are steps you can take to increase the value of your car before putting it up for sale. Prepare your car ahead of time.
A clean and well-maintained vehicle is more likely to attract potential buyers and command a higher sales price. Spend some time cleaning both the inside and outside of your car to freshen it up, such as cleaning the tires, giving your glass a once-over with glass cleaner, installing new floor mats and cleaning the seats.
Small repairs can make a big difference in your car’s perceived value. A well-maintained and repaired car shows potential buyers that you have taken good care of it and that it’s in good, safe and drivable condition.
Organized service and maintenance records demonstrate to prospective buyers that your car has been properly taken care of over time. Make sure you have all of your car’s maintenance and service records on hand to show interested parties. A CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™ may also be helpful to provide additional details on your car’s history.
A professional mechanic can identify any underlying mechanical issues with your car during a thorough inspection. Addressing these issues before selling can prevent potential buyers from negotiating a lower
price due to necessary repairs. It also lets buyers know that the car has been well-maintained during your ownership and that there won’t be any surprises.
Before selling, research and set the right price. Determine the vehicle’s market value. Consider factors like the make, model, year, mileage and overall condition of the car to find a fair price.
Market your car in the best light possible, and that means being deliberate with your photos. Park it in an attractive setting with good lighting. Make sure the car looks clean and avoid highlighting any dents or scratches. Advertise the car on various channels, such as social media, car sale websites or sales forums.
Don’t rush the process! You want to take your time to find the right buyer who is willing to pay the price you’re asking for. Be open to negotiation, but don’t settle for a price that’s too low.
Adding value to your car doesn’t have to be an expensive process. With a few simple tricks like cleaning, minor repairs and thorough research, you can maximize your car’s potential profitability.
While your car is up for sale, make sure you’re considering your next auto purchase. Apply your car’s value to your new purchase budget.
