What's Up? Georgian Bay - April 2023

Serve a Sweet Treat

(Culinary.net) Surprise your family with a dessert fit for the season. This Carrot Cake recipe is a traditional take on the timeless treat and created using everyday ingredients.

Carrot Cake

2 1/4 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 cup vegetable oil

1 1/4 cups sugar

3 eggs

1 1/2 cups carrots, shredded

1 cup crushed pineapple with juice

2/3 cup walnuts

FROSTING

2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese

3/4 cup butter, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

5 1/2 cups powdered sugar

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat oven to 350 F.

2. In large bowl, sift flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and baking powder.

3. In mixing bowl, cream together oil and sugar. Add eggs one at a time. Gradually add in carrots and crushed pineapple.

4. Add dry mixture to wet ingredients and beat until smooth. Fold in walnuts.

5. Pour batter into two lightly greased 8-inch round cake pans and bake 25-30 minutes, or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely. Remove cakes from pans and slice off tops to level cakes.

6. To make frosting: In mixing bowl, cream together cream cheese, butter and vanilla. Gradually add in powdered sugar and mix until smooth.

7. Spread two large spoonfuls of frosting over top of one cake and stack second cake on top. Frost entire cake with remaining frosting.

Vecteezy

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The Master Gardener’s Corner

Things to do in your garden in – April 2023

• Make sure you have done everything you were supposed to do on the March MG List, or ask for a new one.

• Do stretch and bend exercises 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 ski season comes again.

• A NEW PROGRAM FOR SPREADING TRIPLE-19 FERTILIZER. I have learned from the Guelph educated Agronomist at the Huron 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. You will lose the Nitrogen. After the snow has gone, you should spread it on the damp ground, but before plant leaves appear, so they will not be burned. Triple-19 fertilizer is available now at the Mid-West Co-Op just south of Markdale on HWY 10.

• Organize your compost pile for the new season. Start a new one with the top foot of compost material from last year’s pile as a base.

• As the weather warms and the ground dries, prune back perennials and ornamental grasses to 1” to 2” from the ground. Collect the dead material and put it on your new compost pile. Shred it, if you can.

• Push any plants that the frost has heaved back into place

• Prepare garden beds for planting. Dig in compost, and/or manure, and/or other organic material around each plant. Remove any 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.

• Look over your garden to determine what plants are in the wrong place or should be divided. Dig and pot up any extra plant material to contribute to the St. George’s annual plant sale, Saturday June 3rd 2023. Donate 15 or more perennials and you will receive an Income Tax receipt for the value your plants sell for. Drop off date, Wednesday May 31st, 9 am until 3 pm at the church.

• Remove 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. Add compost and manure, if you have it. Mid-month, plant the seeds of coolweather vegetables like peas, spinach, lettuce, onions, beets. Plant seeds of frost resistant annuals like larkspur, sweet peas and calendulas.

• When dry and you can’t see your foot prints, rake your lawn 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-emergence herbicide to your lawn, if required.

• When spring finally comes, plant trees, shrubs, perennials and biennials in your garden. No need to wait until May 24th for perennials, that’s for annuals. It may be the first week in June before you can get frost tender annuals safely into the ground.

• Re-fill your pots and planters with compost. But first, put empty plastic bottles with tops at the bottom of large pots. You will need less soil and they will be lighter to move. Add slow-release plant food to the top 4 inches.

• Then plant frost-resistant pansies NOW for a little spring colour.

• Start mowing your lawn only as needed. Keep it long to crowd out any weeds.

• Save Saturday June 3rd for the St. George’s, Anglican Parish of the Blue Mountains, giant annual Plant Sale on the church grounds with over 1,100 perennials and shrubs to choose from, plus free gardening advice from 599 Garden Club experts.

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 john@casacarole.com.

Submitted by John Hethrington

A Beautiful Baked Beef Dinner

(Culinary.net) Many families crave savoury and delicious weeknight meals. After a long day of work and school, it’s time to gather around the table to share a mouthwatering meal and memories together.

For something truly wholesome, try this Beef Tenderloin with Roasted Cauliflower and Spinach Salad. It’s a full meal the whole family can enjoy, and you’ll be surprised at how easy it makes it to feed all their smiling faces.

This meal has layers of flavour and sneaks in a few vegetables like spinach and cauliflower, but even picky eaters can’t resist trying it.

Beef Tenderloin with Roasted Cauliflower and Spinach Salad

Servings: 4-6

1 beef tenderloin (4 pounds), wrapped with butcher’s twine

9 tablespoons olive oil, divided

4 teaspoons pepper, divided

1 head cauliflower

5 shallots, quartered

2 teaspoons salt, divided

3 tablespoons lemon juice

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1 package (5 1/2 ounces) baby spinach dried cranberries, for garnish

1. Start with a beef tenderloin and drizzle it generously with olive oil. Add 2 tablespoons of pepper. Flip and repeat on the other side. Bake for 12 minutes at 475 F.

2. Next, add one head of cauliflower to a mixing bowl with five shallots cut into quarters. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil; mix well with salt and pepper, to taste. Add this to the baking sheet with the beef tenderloin and bake 18-25 minutes.

3. While that’s cooking, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil to a mixing bowl with lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper and baby spinach.

4. To plate, add baby spinach salad first then the cauliflower and shallot mixture and, finally, that juicy, perfectly cooked beef tenderloin. Garnish with cranberries for a splash of colour.

This meal is satisfying and only requires some mixing bowls and a large sheet pan to make cleanup a breeze so you can focus on what really matters most: time with your loved ones.

Cal Patterson Memorial Hockey Tournament

Cal Patterson’s commitment to the Living Wish Foundation as one of our very first board members was very much welcomed. The breadth and depth of his knowledge and experience was invaluable to the success of South Georgian Bay’s newest not for profit organization. In 2020, we awarded Cal with the “Cal Patterson Outstanding Achievement Award” for going above and beyond to help others. On August 4, 2021 Cal’s family, friends, The Living Wish Foundation, and the entire community lost a great man...

1221 Mosley Street, Wasaga Beach 429-0424

www.nepscogroup.ca

Cal was instrumental in getting us on our feet in the early days. His calm, quiet demeanour somehow always managed to steer us in the right direction. Cal was the type of person that always went above and beyond for everyone and he was the first one to roll up his sleeves when it was time to grant a wish.

We are thankful for his friendship and support and the time we spent together leaves us nothing but gratitude.

We have decided, with permission from his family, to re-name our annual Living Wish Women’s Hockey Tournament to the Southern Georgian Bay Cal Patterson Memorial Hockey Tournament in his honour.

Submitted by Lisa Wright

This Spring, treat yourself to a new freestanding tub.

Georgian Bay Home Share

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING?

DO YOU HAVE AN EXTRA BEDROOM IN YOUR HOME?

HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT GEORGIAN BAY HOME SHARE?

GEORGIAN BAY HOME SHARE (GBHS) is a unique and innovative ministry and outreach of Grace United Church in Thornbury. ( Attendance or membership at Grace is not required to participate in GBHS.)

THE HOME SHARE CONCEPT has been popular in Europe for many years and with the rising costs of housing, is becoming increasingly popular in Canada, and particularly Ontario. Home Share is a living arrangement in which two or more people share living space within a home. In the case of GBHS it is usually an older adult and a younger person. Some of the benefits of this arrangement are a mutual sharing of talents, abilities, and interests and support and encouragement for each other. There is a sharing of household work and expense with an exchange of services in lieu of some rent. This is a win/win situation for both as there is a reduced rent for the renter and human contact and connection for the home provider. A safety net is created and there is an increase in the health and welfare of both individuals.

Many seniors in this area are living alone in their homes. Often they are lonely and may also have difficultly maintaining their homes. With costs rising some seniors may need to supplement their finances to cover the increase in household expenses.

Locally young people are having difficulty finding rental accommodations that they can afford, especially those working in the service industry. According to the United Way of Grey Bruce in March 2022, to afford a market rent of $1500 per month for a 1 bedroom rental, a household must earn $60,000 per year or $32.96 per hour with a 35 hour work week.

The economy of the community also benefits as employers will be able to hire and retain workers locally. Families will benefit from having their loved ones safe and happy in their own homes.

GBHS matches vetted home seekers and home providers. Once an application is received there is an in-depth interview to get to know the seeker or provider, discussing their wants and needs in a home share agreement. Reference and police checks are provided. When the GBHS team believe they have two compatible house mates, an introductory meeting takes place, then the seeker visits the home. With the assistance of GBHS a living arrangement is created. Ongoing support is provided for 6 months after the home share match.

GBHS launched in early January 2023. Although we are currently seeking both home providers and home seekers, our greatest need at this time is for home providers. Please contact GBHS if you would like more information on the project, or if you would like to become a home provider or home seeker.

Please contact GBHS Georgianbayhomeshare@gmail.com or 519 378-4734

Georgian Bay Home Share website is www.georgianbayhomeshare.ca

Submitted by Diana Dolmer

Quick Tips to Cut Back on Kitchen Waste

(NC) With prices going up, it’s extra important that we don’t waste food. Here are four ways you can cut back on waste in the kitchen.

SCHEDULE A REGULAR PANTRY PURGE

No matter how big or small your kitchen is, you likely have a few dark corners of your pantry where items get pushed to the back and forgotten about. It’s a good idea to regularly sort through your cupboards to see what you have on hand.

When you do stock up on pantry staples, make sure you move anything you already have on the shelves to the front, so you use up those items first.

EVERY DAY iS EARTH DAY AT HABiTAT RESTORE

On #EarthDay and every day, Habitat ReStore diverts waste from landfills through accepting, repurposing and reselling quality new and used household items and building materials.

With spring’s arrival, it’s the perfect time to think about refreshing your home! Find new and gently used patio furniture, materials for your next #DIYproject, and more at Habitat ReStore (at budget friendly prices).

WHIP UP A POT POURRI MEAL

Not sure what to make for lunch or dinner? Before you head out to the store, take a look in the fridge to see what you already have. Maybe you can make a veggie stir fry with those loose carrots, celery stems and lonely zucchini. Or chop up that leftover chicken breast into a chicken salad sandwich or use it as a topping for a pita pizza.

Looking for more ideas? There are websites and apps where you can enter the names of ingredients you already have and get recommendations for recipes to make.

PACK OR FREEZE LEFTOVERS

Making big batches of food is a great way to save money, particularly if you buy large-sized packages of food for bulk-rate savings. Eat up what you can over the next day or two for lunches or an easy, heat-andeat dinner. Whatever’s left after that, freeze in individual containers for a quick homemade meal instead of making something new.

UNDERSTAND FOOD LABELS

Your stuff builds homes. Donate your gently used furniture today! ReInvest in new and used items after your spring cleaning and help support us in building more homes.

We all have the power to help build a prosperous, healthy future for our planet

705-446-9740

Tuesday to Saturday 9 am – 4:30 pm restore@habitatgeorgianbay.ca

Many people mistakenly believe that a best before date on a food package means that they should throw it out after that date has passed. Unlike an expiry date, which does mean you shouldn’t consume food after that day, best before dates refer to a product’s ideal freshness period. But, if stored properly, most food is perfectly edible beyond the best before date on the label.

In fact, you might be able get some deals at the store by buying products that are approaching their best before dates. There are also apps where retailers and restaurants sell off products that are about to hit their best before date for a steep discount. You can learn more about Canada’s food labelling system at inspection.canada.ca.

What’s Up? Georgian Bay

It’s a socially and environmentally conscious shopping experience.

Talking About Fraud Prevention

Don’t kid yourself, this could be the most-important message you will read anywhere today, this week, this month, or this year. What’s Up? Georgian Bay wants you to be safe from scammers, so read on:

This story is in front of you because of the diligent duty of Sergeant Trevor McKean of the Collingwood/Blue Mountains OPP who makes presentations throughout our southern Georgian Bay communities about fraud prevention. Sergeant McKean spoke as a guest at the hall at Trinity United Church in Collingwood recently. What he said is of the utmost importance!

Fraud is alive and well and to combat it we must all be vigilant, McKean told his audience. He spoke about the grandparenting scam. He spoke about the scam in which somebody calls and says that they are from Revenue Canada, or from the Canadian Border Services. He spoke about not signing anything. By signing anything that is presented to you, you could lose your house! Yes, the scammers are that dangerous! We repeat. Do not, ever, sign anything for anybody who comes to your door. Strangers, as smiling as they might be, can bring danger to your door. Yes, it’s a different world today than it was years ago before the internet. The smart thing to do these days, is to ignore anybody you do not know when some stranger arrives at the door.

Sergeant McKean explained how scam artists are overbearing, super-pushy and intimidating. He gave examples of how scam artists have conned people out of their houses. Yes, out of their houses! Bottom line is ... do not trust anybody who comes to your house as a stranger and suggests that you have a special deal coming your way, or that you owe money.

Think about it, don’t sign anything and send the person, or people, away, said Sergeant McKean who has a police career going back 32 years. He is presenting seminars locally and if you want more details simply call your local police department. But most important of all.... do not listen to scam artists on the phone. Just hang up! Do not let anybody that has come knocking on your door into your house! Do not hesitate to call the police department and report the person who is on the other side of your door. The scam artists are superpersuasive and super-aggressive. The scam artists have no scruples.

“Can’t happen in southern Georgian Bay,” some people might say. For the record. The scams can happen anywhere and they have happened in Collingwood, Wasaga Beach and points in between. The grandparent scam is a common one and it has had victims locally because the scammers are pushy and want to take advantage of the unsuspecting, nice people. Do not succumb! Do not fall for the grandparent scam no matter how much crying you hear at the other end of the phone. Hang up the telephone and call one of your trusted loved ones, or a trusted family friend and tell them about the call. If you want, call the police. The police will help you.

Sergeant Trevor McKean is doing important work and you can help him by spreading the word. You can help by sharing this message with friends. Once again, do not sign anything! But spread the word to help erase the chances of somebody in our community being scammed.

EASTER HOLIDAY MENU

TURKEY OR HAM DINNER $28 with Stuffing, Gravy/Cranberry Sauce

Mashed Potato, Fresh Veggies, Salad, Bread and Butter - Take Out

SEAFOOD PLATTER $55 includes Shrimp, Scallops, Mussels, Crab Legs and Calamari - Take Out

CALL TO ORDER: 705-429-3034

PICKUP 1246 Mosley St., Wasaga Beach

Nancy Czerny-Holownia chatting with Sgt. Trevor McKean

Submitted by George Czerny-Holownia

Fluff y Bunny Pancakes

Your family will love these fluffy bunny pancakes, they may become a family tradition year round (long after Easter has gone). They are as cute as they are tasty. If you need to ‘hightail’ it on to other activities, pancake mix (or your favourite pancake recipe) can be used instead.

Makes 2 Bunnies

INGREDIENTS

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 Tbsp sugar

2 tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

1 large egg

¾ cup milk

¼ cup butter, melted

TOPPINGS

Banana slices

Mini chocolate chips

Whipped cream

Shredded coconut (optional)

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat frying pan or griddle to medium high heat. Whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt). Combine the wet ingredients in a separate bowl (egg, milk, butter). Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, just until mixed. TIP: to make pretty pastel bunnies, consider adding a few drops of food colouring. To make polka dot bunnies, mix in some blueberries or chocolate chips.

2. For each bunny, make:

• a 4 inch pancake for the body

• a 2 ½ inch pancake for the head

• two small oval pancakes for the feet

• two small oval/triangular for the ears

3. Spoon batter onto pan (for better control, try using a squeeze bottle filled with pancake batter); cook until bubbles form on top of pancakes. Turn, cooking until second side is golden brown.

4. To form bunny, place ears at top of plate, head slightly overlapping the ears, body slightly overlapping the head and feet slightly overlapping the body. Arrange a banana slice and chocolate chips to create the bottom of bunny feet. Put a dollop of whipped cream at the bottom of the body, just above the feet. Sprinkle the whipped cream with coconut (if using) and serve immediately.

Submitted by Joy Fleury

Editor’s Message

I somehow managed to escape the ‘winter of severe illness’ unscathed and as I write this, the sun is shining and I am very much looking forward to spring. All the sunshine and warmer temperatures give me a burst of energy when I’m finally able to shed some layers that winter required. The thought of spring around the corner certainly puts a spring in my step (pardon the pun!)

April is one of my favourite months of the year. As the snow melts, I wait (not so patiently) for the buds on the trees to emerge, the bright and colourful flowers peeking up from their winter nap. Suddenly everything is springing back to life. I love Easter celebrations, happy days with friends and family, baskets of chocolate, hidden eggs and meals with family filled with spring goodness. (Even my cat Maya gets into the spirit - she secretly wishes she was the Easter Bunny). It also brings fun and clever trickery

in the form of April Fools Day. For all those reasons and more, April feels like the friendliest month of the year.

materials – either way, it’s a great start to your DIY or home reno to do list!

As always, our community is near and dear to us – we take pride is being a magazine that is focussed on celebrating life in Georgian Bay and we welcome your shared stories and pictures! By shining a spotlight on our region, we not only bring our community closer together, but introduce new comers to all the wonderful things that make this the best place to live, work, and play.

If you’re thinking about your taxes and want a distraction, consider starting to plan a veggie garden, think ahead to summer vacation plans, host a gathering for friends (maybe even outside), or perhaps you’ve got spring cleaning on your mind. Take a moment to check out local events and resources to donate your gently used goods, or shop for home improvement

5 Family Staycation Ideas

Thank you for your continued support as we continue to grow and evolve What’s Up? Georgian Bay!

Editor-in-Chief

Joy Fleury

(eLivingtoday.com) Family vacations are a great way to bond and take a step back from the hectic schedules that accompany everyday life, but sometimes time or money (or both) make planning an elaborate trip a non-starter.

However, a staycation - a vacation you take right in your hometown (or nearby) - can be much less expensive and fit into nearly any amount of available time with the added bonus of skipping out on potentially stressful travel.

Consider these staycation ideas to take advantage of your local area’s attractions and prove you don’t have to go far to spend quality time together.

VISIT LOCAL LANDMARKS. Just because it’s not a traditional vacation doesn’t mean you can’t pretend to be tourists. Start by visiting the places you recommend to friends and family from out of town or pick up a city guidebook to uncover hidden spots you may not even know exist. Make a plan to seek out historic sites, visit local landmarks like museums or try an out-of-the-way restaurant (or two) you’ve never eaten at before.

CAMP OUT IN THE BACKYARD. Camping doesn’t have to be done far from home. In fact, it can be done right in your own backyard. Pitch a tent to sleep under the stars and plan a night full of traditional camping activities like roasting s’mores, telling spooky stories by flashlight and trying to identify stars and constellations.

SET UP A PICNIC IN THE PARK. Pack a basket with sandwiches, fruit and other treats and head to the park. You can enjoy a casual meal then take advantage of the open space for a family walk or game of tag before retreating to the playground to let the little ones expel any leftover energy.

HAVE A HOME SPA DAY If you’re looking for some relaxation but don’t want to splurge on the full spa treatment, plan an at-home oasis instead. Light some candles, run a bubble bath and break out the facial masks and fingernail polish.

VISIT AN AMUSEMENT PARK No matter where you live, there’s probably an amusement or water park within driving distance. A quick online search before you arrive can help prepare a strategy for hitting the most popular thrill rides and waterslides while skipping those that may not provide quite the same entertainment value.

Brunch Made Easy

(Family Features) Gathering friends and family doesn’t need to be fancy. With its prime positioning between breakfast and lunch, brunch is a more casual and lighter alternative to the typical dinner party.

When charged with hosting a mid-day gathering, a little pre-planning can go a long way toward ensuring your brunch get-together is as simple as it is scrumptious.

GET CREATIVE WITH DECOR. When prepping your tablescape, think outside the box. Opt for unexpected serving dishes such as tartlet tins and vases, and transfer syrups and jams from their everyday containers to glass bowls or creamers. Fresh flowers and produce can add natural pops of colour to the table and a bowl of fruit can make for an eye-catching centrepiece.

PLAN A VARIETY OF DISHES. Make sure you have a mix of both sweet and savoury dishes on the menu that can please a wide variety of palates. Earmarking some recipes that can be made ahead, like pastries and casseroles, can be a simple way to avoid waking up extra early to prepare. Save the morning of your event for dishes that are best served fresh. This Herbed Spanish Omelet, which features potatoes, fresh spring herbs and red onions, is packed with protein and B-vitamins.

SERVE IT BUFFET-STYLE. Setting your spread out on the counter and allowing guests to help themselves not only makes it easier for the host to mingle, but it allows guests to customize their meals as they wish and gives the gathering a more casual vibe. Try themed stations, such as a coffee or mimosa bar, parfait bar or bread bar, in addition to more traditional dishes to let guests take the customization to the next level.

Herbed Spanish Omelet

Servings: 4

1 pound potatoes, peeled and diced or shredded

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup diced red onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 large whole eggs, lightly beaten

2 egg whites, lightly beaten

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives salt, to taste (optional)

fresh herb sprigs, for garnish (optional)

1. Place potatoes in large pan. Cover with water. Bring to boil and cook, uncovered, 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover and let stand about 10 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Drain well.

2. In deep, 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and garlic. Cook about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add potatoes and cook 5 minutes.

3. Combine whole eggs and egg whites. Stir in parsley, basil and chives. Season with salt, to taste, if desired. Pour mixture over potatoes in hot skillet. Reduce heat and cook, uncovered, about 10 minutes, or until bottom of omelet is golden.

4. If desired, brown top under toaster oven. Garnish with fresh herb sprigs, if desired.

Nutritional information per serving: 260 calories; 12 g total fat (2 g saturated fat); 28 g carbohydrates; 11 g protein; 2 g dietary fiber; 106 mg sodium.

Reprinted with permission from the American Institute for Cancer Research

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

April Showers Bring May Flowers

April Showers Bring May Flowers

SPRING WHEELS

5 TIPS FOR DRIVING SAFELY AT NIGHT

(BPT) - Are you having trouble driving at night? According to the National Safety Council, your depth perception and peripheral vision can be compromised when driving in the dark. Even with high beams, visibility is limited to 500 feet ahead of you, giving you less time to react if you see something on the road.

1. Clean your car’s windshield, windows and mirrors

To drive safely at night, you’ll want to do whatever you can to reduce glare. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, glare can make it harder to gauge the distance of an object on the road. The easiest way to reduce glare is to clean glass and other reflective surfaces like your car’s windshield, windows and mirrors.

When light hits dirty or streaked glass, the light is scattered, creating glare. Also, dirty windows can reduce visibility, making it difficult to see objects and people that may be on the road. When cleaning, make sure to use a glass cleaner, microfiber cloth and a squeegee, and don’t forget to clean the inside of the windows and windshields.

While it’s more difficult for anyone to drive at night, it can be even more dangerous if you’re older. As you age, your night vision worsens, meaning you’ll need to take extra precautions to drive safely at night. If you have trouble driving at night, check out these five tips to make nighttime drives safer. Auto Repair

Wheel Alignment

Safety Inspections

Tire Sales + Service

Diesel Emission Tests

Truck, Trailer + RV Services

705-428-3573

alowe@equipfix.ca www.equipfix.ca

7633 County Rd 91, Stayner, ON L0M 1S0

2. Double-check your headlights

Get into the habit of regularly checking your turn signals, brake lights, low beams, high beams and daytime running lights. Properly working lights will illuminate the road in front of you and keep your car visible to other drivers.

Don’t forget to clean your headlights. Over time, your headlights can become clouded, dull and scratched. To ensure your lights shine as bright as possible, purchase a headlight polish kit to remove headlight haze.

3. Don’t look at headlights in oncoming traffic

Oncoming glare can affect drivers from as far as 3,000 feet away. If you see bright lights approaching, look down and to the right and follow the white traffic line on the right side of your vehicle.

Also, if you’re using your high beams, make sure to switch to low beams when you see a car approaching, so you don’t blind oncoming traffic.

4. Get glasses with non-glare lenses

Even when taking precautions against glare, you can’t eliminate the risk completely. To help you when glare can’t be avoided, consider buying a pair of non-glare glasses or lenses for nighttime driving.

Non-glare lenses typically have an anti-reflective coating to reduce incoming glare, increasing the amount of light to your eyes and making it easier to see. This coating also makes it easier to clean your lenses, improving your vision day and night.

5. Schedule an eye exam

If you’ve tried the above four tips and still have trouble with reduced night vision and driving after dark, it may be time to schedule an eye exam with your eye doctor.

Driving at night can be nerve-wracking at the best of times. Using these five tips, you can improve your nighttime visibility and help keep yourself and other drivers safe.

(Culinary.net) There are no alarms set and you are cuddled up in bed after a good night’s sleep. It’s late morning and there is nowhere to go, no rushing around to do. No school bus, no work to be done, just relaxing at home with loved ones. However, breakfast is calling your name.

Your stomach rumbles as your stumble toward the kitchen. You need something quick and effortless. The kids will be up soon and you know food will be on their minds.

When you’re in a pinch, there is nearly nothing better to make than something sweet and filling for a weekend family breakfast.

Try these simple and delicious Caramel Sticky Rolls for an easy breakfast for all. The rolls are fluffy, a little crunchy and drizzled with caramel topping.

KITCHEN CABINET PAINTING

Refinish

Caramel Sticky Rolls

Servings: 9

Nonstick cooking spray flour, for rolling pastry

1 frozen puff pastry, thawed caramel sauce, divided 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped powdered sugar

1. Heat oven to 400 F.

2. Spray muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.

3. Start by sprinkling some flour on the countertop. Roll out one sheet of puff pastry. Drizzle and spread caramel sauce on the puff pastry.

4. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts on top then roll up the puff pastry and cut it into about nine pieces to place inside a muffin tin.

Water Truck Services: Filling hot tubs and pools, flushing roads and parking lots, construction compaction.

Powersweeping Services: Removal of winter sand - municipal & commercial, road construction - pre & post paving cleanup, Site cleanup - construction, special events, spills, line painting.

Tri-axle Services: High quality supply and delivery of aggregates, snow haulage.

5. Bake for 22 minutes and cool. If you like your rolls super sweet, drizzle with some extra caramel sauce and dust with powdered sugar..

The result is a pan full of warm, gooey and delightful rolls that are perfect for a large family or to save leftovers to enjoy throughout the week.

Your family will love it and don’t be surprised if you get a request or two for this breakfast again.

Wasaga Beach Climate Action Needs Your Input

Wasaga Beach Climate Action Team (WBCAT) was formed soon after Wasaga Beach Council passed a resolution in May 2021 to declare a Climate Emergency and a climate crisis in the community. We are a not-for-profit association of volunteers with a mission. Our mission is to work collaboratively with the local government, residents and businesses to inspire climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Climate change is now affecting every country, disrupting national economies and affecting lives, people and communities and it will get worse before it gets better.

A recent survey of young Canadians (18 to 25 years old) across the country shows that:

“almost 80% reported that climate change has had an impact on their overall mental health, 37% said that their feelings about climate change have a negative impact on their daily functioning and 56% reported feeling afraid sad, anxious and powerless.”

Visit WBCAT website to respond to our survey wasagabeachclimateaction.com

Science has proven that climate change is being caused by emissions of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere, therefore everyone needs to take action to reduce emissions, everyone, all levels of government, industries, businesses, communities and individuals need to engage in climate action.

Recently Wasaga Beach Council approved their strategic priorities for the 2022-2026 term, and beyond. WBCAT is pleased that this Council included a Green Pillar “Leadership in responding to climate change” among the defined 5 strategic pillars, with several strategic green initiatives, such as:

• Strike an environmental and climate advisory committee

• Transition to a green fleet

• Pursue green energy alternatives at the Beachfront

• Improve Active Transportation Infrastructure

• Establish Green Development Standards

• Undertake a Conservation and Energy Management Plan

• Explore green retrofits to Town buildings

To define these priorities, Wasaga Beach CAO consulted the mayor, councilors and staff and did listen to public input.

Just the same, WBCAT needs your help to define its 2023 and beyond priorities, local residents’ input is critical to us, your replies to a questionnaire will help us meet our goals to influence the Town leadership, businesses and community, as well as to help influence YOU.

Please fill out our questionnaire here for a chance to WIN A $100 SHOPPING CERTIFICATE from your local green business of choice. It will only take you 5 minutes.

Visit this link wasagabeachclimateaction.com/take-our-survey/

Or Scan this QR Code to fill our survey

Engage with Wasaga Beach Climate Action Team: wasagabeachclimateaction.org/ info@wasagabeachclimateaction.com

Submitted by Gerard Dusastre

Celebrate Easter with Family-Friendly Fun

(Family Features) Gathering for Easter means bright decor and flavourful food with those you hold nearest and adding some extra “egg-citement” to the holiday can come easy. Let your inner kid shine through with games and activities everyone can enjoy whether it’s at the kitchen table, in the backyard or gathered around for story time.

Hunt for Easter Eggs

Likely the most popular Easter activity of all, hiding plastic eggs full of candy and goodies for kiddos to “hunt” brings plenty of smiles and giddiness. Whether your gatherings typically take place in a family member’s backyard or a local park, it’s an exciting way to get youngsters outdoors for a friendly (yet probably competitive) game.

Bake Desserts

Every holiday comes with its own flavourful traditions and Easter is no exception. From sweet, fresh, fruity desserts to chocolatey delights, baking your family’s favourites is a fun way to bring everyone together in the kitchen. Assigning specialized roles in an easy solution for ensuring all feel involved. Little ones can gather and organize ingredients while older kids measure cups, tablespoons and teaspoons to show off their math skills. Finally, adults can handle cutting and cooking so safety comes first.

Decorate Eggs

Keep the fun in the kitchen by using eggs (real or plastic) as the canvas for creativity. Dyes are a popular choice, but you can also paint or simply use markers to decorate to your heart’s desire. Add final touches with glitter, fabric or ribbons to truly make your creation your own.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Depending on where you live, Easter often presents opportunities to celebrate outdoors. Turn back the clock with kid-friendly classics like tag, hide and seek, backyard sports and more. The best part: These beloved games are meant for all ages, meaning everyone in the family can get in on the fun.

Pass Down Family Stories and Traditions

Whether your loved ones live down the street or across the country, holidays bring people together. These moments spent sharing meals, playing games and looking back on the past are a perfect opportunity for passing down stories and traditions, from studying the family tree to sharing the secrets to favourite recipes. Encouraging elders to share their experiences helps ensure traditions are passed from generation to generation and connects the past to the present and future.

Easter Dip Goodness

(Culinary.net) Easter is about coming together with loved ones, enjoying beautiful spring weather and eating your family’s favourite foods. The kids will be playing, adults will be chatting and all will be patiently waiting for the table to be set.

If you’re visiting and making memories with family and friends you haven’t seen in a while, there are few things better than diving into a marvelous Easter spread.

While eyeing the table, you notice all the colours popping off the dishes. Fruits and veggies make the feast come to life, but a warm Easter dip paired with rolls for dipping is a perfect way to start the festivities.

These Easter Bunny Rolls with Spinach Dip are as eye-catching as they are delicious. Not only will the kids love its shape, but the layers of taste will wow your Easter crowd.

Easter Bunny Rolls with Spinach Dip

Serves: 24

16 ounces frozen spinach, thawed

8 ounces cream cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon chili powder

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

2 crescent roll tubes (8 ounces each)

1. Heat oven to 375 F.

2. To make this recipe, start by combining a 16-ounce package of frozen spinach, cream cheese and garlic in a skillet. Once heated, add mayonnaise, salt, onion powder, chili powder and Italian seasoning.

3. Add in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses then stir until combined.

4. Next, roll out crescent rolls. Stretch the dough then cut into 24 rolls.

5. Form the bunny shape and scoop your spinach dip mixture into the centre of the bunny and its ears. Sprinkle the spinach dip with mozzarella cheese before baking at 375 F for 18 minutes.

6. This dish is made for a crowd, served warm and full of cheesy goodness. You can watch as your family dips into the spinach and one-by-one, before you know it, the rolls will have disappeared and the dip will be devoured.