What's Up? Georgian Bay - August 2023

August

Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf

Quick breads are one of the tastiest and easiest options for breakfast or dessert, making them hard to resist. My favourite quick breads have cream cheese in the dough, resulting in a soft, rich texture.

INGREDIENTS

8 oz cream cheese (1 pkg), softened

½ cup butter, 1 stick

1 ½ cups sugar

½ tablespoon lemon zest

2 eggs

2 ¼ cups all purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons salt

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

1 cup milk

15 oz. can sliced peaches, drained and diced

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and grease a standard bread loaf pan.

1. In a large bowl, cream together the cream cheese and butter. Add sugar, eggs, and lemon zest and beat until light and fluffy.

2. In a small bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Once thoroughly combined, slowly add the dry ingredients and milk to the wet ingredients and fold in the peaches.

3. Transfer batter to the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.

4. Let loaf cool before slicing.

Submitted by Joy Fleury

To Our Readers

Our community is important to us and we take pride in being part of the community. We want you to be involved and to continue to send us your stories and pictures.

Thank you to all of our readers, contributors and advertisers for your continuing support!

Happy Summer!

Victoria Ledden

JOHN ARMSTRONG, Sales Representative john@armstrongs4u.com Cell: 705-351-2767

and THE ARMSTRONG TEAM!

Brenda - Cell: 705-828-4571

Candy - Cell: 705-817-1007

Collingwood Office: 330 First Street Collingwood

Wasaga

(NC) Mornings are busy. And once the kids are back in school, this time of day can feel downright hectic. Since breakfast is an integral component to the morning routine, whipping up something that’s ultra quick, easy and healthy can go a long way in easing into the start of your day.

A banana-berry smoothie bowl is a perfect way. You can take this bowl to the office or even drink it during your commute – and the kids will love it too. It’s also nutritious.

Banana-Berry Smoothie Bowl

Prep time: 5 minutes

Serves: 1

INGREDIENTS

1 cup (250 ml) 2% milk

½ cup (125 ml) frozen blueberries

½ cup (125 ml) frozen raspberries

1 frozen banana (frozen in chunks for easier blending)

2 tbsp (15 ml) ground flax seeds

½ tsp (2 ml) vanilla

Topping suggestions: sliced bananas, extra berries (fresh or frozen), chia seeds, hemp hearts, granola, nuts.

DIRECTIONS

1. Add all ingredients (except toppings) to a blender and process until smooth. Garnish as desired and serve immediately.

Tip: Fresh fruit can be used if frozen is unavailable. Add ice to achieve desired thickness.

Expert Tips for Welcoming a Kitten

(Family Features) Fostering kittens and cats has risen in popularity during these unprecedented times, and many pet lovers are becoming fosters to help overcrowded animal shelters. Fostering a kitten can be a fun and exciting time, but it may also come with a learning curve.

Among the 43% of respondents to a recent survey, who have fostered a pet, 6 in 10 have “foster failed” and permanently adopted the pet they were fostering. Most pet owners who responded also agree the first year of pet ownership is the most important, but 64% believe it is the most difficult, as well.

Whether you’re fostering or adopting a kitten, learn how to give your kitten proper care during her first weeks and months with you with this advice from the experts.

Arriving Home

The new sights, sounds and smells in your home, and the separation from her mother, may make your kitten feel stressed. Keeping the environment calm and quiet can ease the transition.

When you arrive home, put the cat carrier in the room you’ve prepared for the kitten with the kitten still inside, allowing her to get acclimated before opening the door. Then allow the kitten to explore a closed-off area. Resist the urge to cuddle your kitten right away.

As your kitten gains confidence in its new surroundings, she will want to explore more. Make sure the environment is prepared with electrical wires and outlets covered; windows, balconies and stairs secured; and small or sharp objects put away so she can safely explore with your supervision. If there are possible hazards, a designated room with windows and plenty of social contact for the first few weeks may be better.

Creating a Safe Place

Kittens can tire easily. After a little exploration time, give your kitten access to a bed in a cozy, quiet place with access to water, food and a litter box. Turning out the light helps establish sleep patterns, but on the first night you might want to leave a night light on to help with the adjustment.

Provide somewhere quiet to eat. This should be somewhere your kitten feels secure, away from where you and any other pets eat. Cats don’t like to eat too near their litter boxes and should always have fresh water available.

As kittens grow rapidly, their digestive and immune systems develop slowly and they have specific nutritional needs that are different from adult cats. Any sudden changes in your kitten’s diet can cause digestive trouble, so for the first few days, keep the same feeding routine as the previous caretaker. You can slowly switch to a different routine, if you choose, and transition to kitten food suitable for the appropriate growth stage.

Ongoing Care

Your kitten should see a veterinarian as soon as possible. In addition to a general health check, your vet can help you create a vaccination schedule and give advice on deworming, nutrition and more. Always use a carrier to transport your kitten safely while in the car and into the vet’s office.

Gradually introducing your kitten to new experiences can help with socialization. New sounds can startle a kitten, so be ready to offer plenty of reassurance. You may also need to introduce new terrain like stairs or unfamiliar surfaces. Gentle play and careful handling can help your kitten become more comfortable with being touched.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

How Farmers Give Back

(NC) Farmers are an important part of ensuring a strong, diverse food supply across the country. And in every region, farmers work to contribute to the fabric of communities like yours. Here are four unique benefits Canadian farmers offer:

NUTRITIOUS FOOD

A balanced diet is made up of a variety of protein sources, healthy fats and grains. Canadian farmers take great pride in delivering the fresh, local and high-quality products that we want and expect.

PRODUCT VARIETY

In Canada, the diversity of our climate and robust farming operations means we can enjoy a wide variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables. From delicious berries to vegetables, we’re rich in homegrown selections. When it comes to eggs — from classic white and brown eggs to enriched colony, free range, free run, organic and vitamin-enhanced eggs — the choice is yours.

LOCAL SUPPLY

Enjoying local foods supports our economy and is better for the environment, since products don’t have to travel as far to reach you. There are over 1,100 egg-farming families across Canada in every province and the Northwest Territories — so you know your eggs are always fresh and local.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Many farmers go above and beyond to lend a helping hand by donating food and funds to local charities and food banks. For example, every year, Egg Farmers of Canada donates millions of eggs to local food banks, school breakfast programs and other organizations.

4 Best Spices to Fight Inflammation

(NC) Herbs and spices have been used for culinary and medicinal purposes for centuries. These four tasty seasonings enhance the flavour and aroma of a variety of foods, but did you know that they may also help reduce inflammation associated with health conditions such as arthritis?

1. Garlic

Traditionally used as an antidote for disease, garlic belongs to the genus allium and contains an anti-inflammatory compound known as diallyl disulphide. Allium vegetables include garlic, leeks, chives and scallions.

Garlic can be eaten either raw or cooked. In its raw form, garlic is more pungent and can be grated over cooked vegetables, soup, salad, pasta or a couple slices of toast. Cooked garlic has a mild, nutty taste that enhances stews, pasta, mashed potatoes, soup and roasted vegetables.

2. Ginger

Ginger has been used as folk medicine for centuries. Gingerol is the main antiinflammatory compound in ginger and functions similarly to COX-2 inhibitors, which are drugs used to treat joint pain and inflammation. Some studies have linked ginger to decreased joint pain and disability in people with osteoarthritis.

Ginger’s unmistakable sharp and aromatic flavour can elevate many dishes including stews, rice, fruit sauces, muffins and more. Add zing to smoothies by incorporating a small piece of ginger.

3. Cinnamon

Cinnamon contains chemical compounds known as cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid. These compounds have been associated with reducing joint pain. Research has shown some promising results with cinnamon supplements in reducing inflammation and another condition called oxidative stress, which can lead to cell tissue breakdown and premature aging.

Cinnamon’s sweetly spicy flavour is versatile and can be added to both sweet and savoury dishes. Try adding it to meat rubs or sprinkling it on your coffee.

4. Turmeric

Best known for its vibrant, rich yellow colour, turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine. It also has a long history of being used as medicine in Chinese and Indian cultures. Turmeric contains a compound known as curcumin which is associated with lowering inflammation and easing osteoarthritis pain. Despite some promising early results, more research is needed to determine the safety and effectiveness of taking curcumin supplements.

Adding pepper significantly increases the effectiveness of turmeric, so try whisking turmeric and black pepper into your favourite salad dressing and drizzle it onto roasted vegetables or salad. Turmeric makes an excellent addition to almost any type of soup, especially cream or vegetable soups.

3 Easy Steps to Take Better Videos

(NC) Whether you’re taking endless videos of your grandkids or trying to become a social media influencer, it takes practice to create appealing video content. If you’re just starting out or looking to improve your videos, a few simple steps can go a long way to making them more polished and engaging.

PLAN YOUR LIGHTING

Cameras need light to capture images, so don’t forget this step. In general, more light is better as it keeps your subjects clear. However, be wary of overhead lights or harsh noontime sun, which can wash out your star or add unflattering shadows to their face. Instead, softer morning and evening light are often best. For indoor images, try experimenting with a few different lamps or lights together to see what setup you like the most. If you’re outside, have the sun at your back. Although your subjects may be facing the

sun, it will be worth it once they see the results.

CONSIDER COMPOSITION

How you frame the images in your video matters. Use the tried-and-true rule of thirds to help draw the eye and create interest. Think of your screen as divided into thirds using a grid pattern with two vertical lines and two horizontal ones, then hold your camera so the object or person of focus is where two of the lines intersect. It’s okay if you cut off the top of their head in the frame, that’s more natural

than leaving their chin out of view. If you’ll be moving the camera around, hold your first shot for about 10 seconds first to let your audience get oriented, and look ahead to where you’ll stop moving.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT SOUND

Whether you’re used to taking photographs or you’re just caught up in the moment, it can be easy to forget about the audio side of the video. Audio recorded directly by the camera is often not great quality – your camera is far away from the subject and there’s other competing noise. While this might not matter for random home movies, it helps for special occasions. Think about how much better a video of your grandkid’s birthday party would be if you could hear their joy and laughter crisp and clear. It’s usually worth it to buy an external microphone for video recording. If you think you’ll be doing any interviews, a mic that clips on to the speaker’s shirt is also handy.

Canadian-Themed Gift Ideas

(NC) Do you have family or friends who live in another country? Mailing gifts is a common way to celebrate milestones with loved ones far away, or to maintain connections and share a part of the place you call home. Sending something uniquely Canadian is a fun way to include them in your life.

Here are some Canada-themed gift ideas and tips to consider before assembling the items.

SHARE CANADIAN ART

• Soapstone carving

• Print or postcard of a classic painting by Norval Morrisseau or the Group of Seven

• Professional photograph of majestic moose, polar bears, grizzly bear and beavers

• A streaming playlist of Canadian music, television and movies

REPRESENT CANADA ON THEIR SLEEVE

• Hockey jersey or fan apparel

• A cozy toque

• Canadian clothing brands that may not be available overseas

• Authentic moccasin slippers

FEED THEM UNIQUELY CANADIAN SNACKS

• Canadian all-dressed or ketchup-flavoured chips

• A recipe for butter tarts

• Ice wine or rye whiskey

• Maple syrup, cookies, tea or candies

BEFORE YOU SEND YOUR GIFT:

1. Double-check shipping prices to avoid surprise sticker shock after you assemble the package.

2. Check the import rules of the country you’re mailing it to, to make sure your gift gets through customs. For example, many food, plant and animal products are prohibited or tightly regulated to prevent diseases from entering the country.

What’s Up? Georgian Bay

A Classic Southern Dessert

(Family Features) Delight the chocolate lovers in your family with this easy recipe for a Southern classic like Mississippi Mud Cake.

Mississippi Mud Cake

1 chocolate cake mix (15 1/4 ounces)

1 1/4 cups water

1/3 cup canola oil

1/3 cup creamy peanut butter

3 eggs

1 cup semisweet chocolate pieces

1 can (16 ounces) chocolate fudge frosting

1 bag (16 ounces) miniature marshmallows

1 cup chopped pecans

1. Heat oven to 350° F.

2. Grease 13-by-9-by-2-inch baking pan.

3. In large bowl, using electric mixer on low speed, combine cake mix, water, oil, peanut butter and eggs. Stir in chocolate pieces. Pour into prepared pan.

4. Bake 30-35 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in centre of cake comes out clean.

5. Pour marshmallows over top of cake. Return to oven and bake 2-3 minutes, or until marshmallows are somewhat melted.

6. In microwave-safe bowl, melt fudge frosting in microwave.

7. Drizzle frosting over melted marshmallows.

8. Sprinkle pecan pieces over frosting.

9. Allow cake to cool completely before serving.

The Ultimate Avocado Guide

(NC) Did you know that avocados are native to Mexico? That’s right, known for their exceptional nutritional value and deliciously creamy texture, this little green gem is also in season in the country all year round. Thanks to its unique climate, it is the only place in the world where avocado trees bloom four times a year. Here’s how to make the best of avocados, from January to December.

HOW TO PICK

The choice of the perfect avocado depends on when you want to use it. If the avocado skin is very green, the avocado will be ripe in a week. If the avocado skin is dark, but firm to the touch, it is not quite ripe and will need about two more days. Finally, if the skin of the avocado is dark and yields to a slight pressure, then it is time to enjoy it.

HOW TO RIPEN

Have an avocado that’s as hard as its pit? Here’’s the trick: put the avocado in a paper bag with a banana for three to five days and check its condition daily. If the avocado is slightly soft to the touch, it’s ready to be eaten.

HOW TO PREP

First, cut the avocado in half with a chef’s knife by cutting along the length of the fruit, from the narrow part of it, and open it in half. Gently whack the pit with a sharp knife, embedding the blade slightly in the seed and twisting to release it from the flesh. With a spoon, gently scoop the flesh from the skin. Then, you are the chef: slice, cube, or crush with a fork to eat as is or add to a favourite recipe.

HOW TO COOK WITH AVOCADOS

As an excellent source of “good fats,” avocados are easy to incorporate into savoury, sweet or spicy dishes, and they can be baked, fried, grilled or eaten raw. They can easily replace fatty culinary bases such as butter in desserts, like in moist brownies, or mayonnaise in sandwiches and wraps.

In the morning, the fruit can be a strong ally in a vitamin-packed smoothie.

For a quick and nutritious snack, try a halved avocado and your favourite seasoning to sustain you until the next meal. For salads and pastas, its creamy base rounds out healthy sauces and dips.

Finally, during barbecue season, try grilling with a little olive oil for three to five minutes.

HOW TO KEEP THEM FRESH

You can slow down the process of avocados going brown, called oxidation, with a few drops of lemon juice or avocado oil. Keep it in the refrigerator for three days, wrapped in cling film.

Kids in the Meaford Hall Arts Society

KIDS IN THE MEAFORD HALL ARTS SOCIETY HOLDS AGM, PLANS FOR CHRISTMAS PERFORMANCES & IDENTIFIES ITS NEED FOR “NEW BLOOD”

Kids in the Meaford Hall Arts Society held its Annual General Meeting at McGinty’s to lay plans for the coming year and identify some challenges to be met. Kids in the Meaford Hall is a not-for-profit charity, one of 83,991 tax granting organizations registered with the Canada Revenue Agency. In fact, 3 years ago the CRA singled out “Kids” for an audit of their annual $13,000 revenue and expenses in 2019 and “Kids” came through with flying colours.

KITMH has, for the past 11 Years, presented in Meaford Hall, live performances of a fairy tale or Christmas story free for all 1,240 elementary school children in Meaford and Thornbury. Gunter Neuman, the founder, had a vision to get the local kids away from their “screens” and expose them to, and get them involved in, live theatrical performances at Meaford Hall. He wanted to have the kids see their fellow students up on stage performing. This program also encourages adults with a wide range of theatrical experience both on stage and/or back stage involved with all aspects of each performance.

Having been shut down for the past 3 years because of Covid, the Kids in the Meaford Hall team is looking for “new blood”, adults with a theatrical bent or interest to join the organization for the coming fall season. You could join and help in many ways, with things like set building, finding props, making costumes, or applying make-up back stage. Then there is finding student actors, arranging auditions in September, followed by rehearsals, coaching kids and directing up front.

The organization is funded by donations from both municipalities, Meaford and the Blue Mountains, plus the Meaford Hall Foundation. There is also great support from local charities, businesses and generous individuals who want to ensure that the local kids see and get involved with live theatre. “Getting donations for Kids in the Meaford Hall is a great story to tell.” says John Hethrington, in charge of fundraising. “Giving all of our local kids the opportunity to be involved in and to see live theatre in Meaford Hall is an easy sell.” This year we already have most of the funding to cover the $12,000 to $13,000 it costs to put on the 2-day show. We pay the full rate to rent Meaford Hall. We have our 10+ years of experience, but we need your help. We have booked Meaford Hall for Thursday, November 30th in the morning and afternoon for 2 performances free for the school kids and another free performance Friday morning December 1st. That night there will be a ticketed performance for adults to help defray our expenses. Everyone is welcome to come and see the kids perform.

This year’s show will again be a Christmas themed story, yet to be finalized. The decision will hinge on the amount of additional support we can get from interested volunteers. All we need are a few more people to join us with their theatrical experience, and/or their enthusiasm, to get the show on the road. If you are interested in participating with us in any way, please give a call to Rhonda Emerson 519-538-2194, or Carol Hethrington 519-5995846.

The final curtain call to a “Sold-Out” House for the 23 student actors involved in the production of ‘Alice” at Meaford Hall, Dec 2019, with 10+ adult volunteer coaches, make-up artists, costumers and back-stage grips celebrating in the wings.

Ribeye Steak, Grape Tomato & Mushroom Kebabs

(Family Features) With hectic day-to-day schedules and varying dietary needs, many families face the dreaded daily question: “What sounds good for dinner?”

Total time: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

2 cloves garlic

1/2 small bunch Italian (flat-leaf) parsley

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/8 cup red wine vinegar

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

3/4 pound ribeye steak

1/2 pint grape tomatoes

1/4 pound white mushrooms

green pepper, sliced (optional)

1/2 medium red onion

6 skewers

DIRECTIONS

1. Peel and mince garlic. Wash and dry parsley. Shave leaves off stems; discard stems and mince leaves.

2. In large bowl, whisk minced garlic, half the minced parsley (reserve remainder for garnish), olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper.

3. Cut steak into cubes; transfer to marinade bowl and toss to coat.

4. Wash tomatoes, mushrooms and green pepper. Halve mushrooms. Add tomatoes, mushrooms and green pepper to marinade. Peel onion and cut into chunks; add to marinade. Toss beef and vegetables until well coated.

5. Heat grill pan, outdoor grill or skillet to medium-high heat.

6. Thread steak and vegetables onto six skewers.

7. Cook kebabs in batches until steak is browned and vegetables are tender, 3-5 minutes per side. Transfer to plate and repeat with remaining kebabs.

8. To serve, plate kebabs and sprinkle with remaining minced parsley.

Flagstone is a layered natural stone, which is cut into a product suitable for use in outdoor landscape construction. It is durable, nonslip and able to withstand the elements while retaining its natural beauty.

Available in a range of earthy shades of brown, red, blue and grey, flagstone is available in colours to suit every taste. The stones can be laid in an organised linear pattern with geometric shapes, or laid with irregularly shaped flagstone to create a random pattern. A flagstone walkway is an eye-catching enhancement to any outdoor space or garden. Because of flagstone’s natural look in terms of both colour and texture, it is often chosen as an accent to existing patio areas where walkways and paths abut other types of surface materials. Flagstone is also a good choice for walkways because of its nonslip textured surface. Flagstones are a good size for walkways providing easy steppingstones, and when dry,

laid flagstones create a permeable walking surface.

Upgrade your home’s curb appeal instantly with a beautiful porch entrance. Make a statement with beautiful flagstone, wet laid on top of the existing sound concrete, joints mortared to provide an even, level surface ensuring a finished project that is durable, safe, and trip resistant for your porch surface.

Adding natural stone steps to connect your walkway, patio, or porch will complement installed flagstone. Extremely durable, natural stone steps and are slip resistant. Visual interest can be achieved by a contrast of colour choice which really creates a custom project, unique to you.

Maintain a natural organic look with a flagstone patio. Easily place your patio furniture on your new flagstone patio. As an entertainment space, it will be the envy of the neighbours!

Flagstone is not just for outdoor projects, it can also be installed inside your home as flooring or as an attractive enhancement to your fireplace.

Community-Home Renovations (CHR) supplies and installs flagstone for residential or commercial applications. Skilled installers and durable materials are the key to the longevity of your project.

From the very beginning, their objective has been the same: to provide their clients with professional and personalized service. The team at CHR will work to ensure the finished product exceeds your expectations. Their work is proudly acknowledged with an A+ rating at BBB (Better Business Bureau)

Interested in adding Flagstone to your property? Have basement water issues and not sure you need a contractor? Community-Home Renovation pledges to meet the renovation industry’s highest standards: THEIR OWN!

Submitted by Community-Home Renovations

summer WHEELS

MAXIMIZE FUEL EFFICIENCY ON YOUR NEXT ROAD TRIP

(NC) After long winters, Canadians want to make the most of the warmer days, and a road trip is often on the summer bucket list.

There are a lot of considerations at play when planning a road trip with friends or family, from gas mileage to environmental impact. There’s no hiding the fact that gas-powered vehicles have an impact on our climate and are expensive to fill up. Here are some tips on how to plan a perfect road trip while cutting down on gas consumption.

TAKE SHORTER ROAD TRIPS:

Consider exploring local areas close to home; this results in a lower carbon footprint and gives you the opportunity to support small Canadian businesses.

PLAN YOUR ROUTE:

Mapping the most efficient route will not only prevent you from getting lost, but it will also save on gas and fuel emissions.

DRIVE ELECTRIC OR HYBRID:

You can significantly reduce your fuel consumption by driving a hybrid vehicle, or eliminate gas entirely with a pure electric one.

Mobile Automotive & Marine Detailing

CUT DOWN YOUR COMMUTING COSTS

(NC) Whether we’re headed to work, school or other commitments, skyhigh gas prices and inflation mean many of us are facing regular trips that are more expensive than ever. While there’s not much you can do about prices these days, there are a few steps you can take to save on your commute. Here are some ideas:

PLAN YOUR TRIPS:

If you know you’re heading into the office, you can plan errands around your in-office day(s) and stop at destinations like the grocery store, bank or pet store, on your way home. Running your errands on days when you’ll already be out driving can save you time in your schedule and may even save you money at the gas pump.

TRY OUT ALTERNATIVE TRANSIT OR CARPOOLING

In good weather, you may try riding a bike to work to avoid filling up at the pump and enjoy the health benefits at the same time. But in the later fall and winter months when that may not be an option, try carpooling with colleagues – this can help you save on gas, and give you some great company to enjoy the ride with.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF

APPS

As long as you use them hands free, mapping or GPS apps can help you find the most efficient – and therefore cheapest – route. You can also try telematics – a usage-based program that follows your driving habits over time and tailors your insurance premiums accordingly. Apps like these are a simple way to reward yourself with cash saved for staying safe on the road.

Five Budget Friendly Tips to Upgrade Your Home

(NC) Upgrading your home to be energy-efficient and eco-friendly doesn’t mean you have to compromise your budget. With a little creativity and a green mindset, you can upgrade your space in ways that are good for both the environment and your wallet.

OPTIMIZE YOUR LIGHTING

Ditch the old incandescent bulbs and try some energy-efficient LED lights. LED lights are not only brighter, but they also last longer, making them a cost-effective lighting solution. Embrace natural light by opening up your curtains or blinds during the day to give your space a sunny and inviting ambience.

UPCYCLE AND RECYCLE

Instead of buying new furniture or décor, explore the world of upcycling and repurposing. Embrace DIY projects by giving life to old furniture. You can transform out-dated and worn-out furniture with a refinish or repaint. Get creative and repurpose everyday objects into unique and functional pieces. Look for inspiration online and in second-hand stores for affordable and sustainable ways to refresh your home’s style.

DIY COMPOSTING

You can start your own composting system to reduce food waste, and create nutrient-rich

soil for your garden. Try setting up a compost bin in your backyard, or use indoor composting methods. By composting, you can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and produce valuable compost that enriches soil, which is great for your plants or your garden.

USE ECO-FRIENDLY CLEANING PRODUCTS

Make the switch to eco-friendly cleaning products to reduce the use of harmful chemicals in your home, and minimize their impact on the environment. You can look for non-toxic cleaning supplies or biodegradable solutions that don’t contain harsh chemicals like chlorine and phosphates. Did you know you can also make your own cleaning solutions? Use ingredients like vinegar and baking soda, or even lemon juice. These options are not only safer for you, but they are safer for the environment.

MAKE USE OF BENEFITS AND CREDITS

Take advantage of government programs like the Climate Action Incentive payment (CAIP).

This program provides families and individuals with quarterly payments to offset the cost of the federal government’s pollution pricing. With the extra little cash in your wallet, you can use this to reduce your carbon footprint and implement more eco-friendly upgrades. You can make progress in upgrading your home on a budget using these government payments, and contribute to a greener future.

You may be eligible for the CAIP if you live in a province with federal pollution pricing: Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Those last three provinces are new to the program this summer, so residents there will be getting three payments this year. Residents of New Brunswick will follow suit and receive their first payment in October 2023. The exact amount of the quarterly payments varies by region – you’ll get more if you live outside a major urban centre. You don’t need to apply; you just need to file your taxes every year.

Find more information about how this benefit works at canada.ca/cai-payment.

This classic Macaroni Salad recipe has favourite add-ins like celery, onion, bell pepper and shredded carrot, tossed in a creamy mayobased dressing. Easy for summer dining.

Servings: 6

INGREDIENTS

1/2 pound elbow noodles , or ditalini

1/4 cup finely diced red onion

1 rib celery, finely diced

1/2 of a red bell pepper, finely diced

¼ cup finely shredded carrot, loosely measured, then squeezed out

DRESSING

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

2 Tablespoons milk

2 Tablespoons cider vinegar

1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar

1/2 tablespoon dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package directions, cook until al dente. Rinse with cold water and drain. This stops the pasta from cooking and removes extra starch to prevent noodles from sticking.

2. Cool the noodles completely before adding the dressing.

3. In a large mixing bowl, toss together cooked and cooled noodles onion, celery, bell pepper, and carrots.

4. In a small mixing bowl whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, cider vinegar, sugar, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

5. Pour half of the sauce over pasta and toss until everything is well coated. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and chill for at least one hour before serving. Stir in additional sauce before serving. Add a splash of milk, for a thinner sauce, if desired.

Leftovers will keep in the fridge for 3-5 days, for make ahead, make the salad and dressing separately and store in the fridge 3-5 days. Salad can be frozen if you freeze the cooked pasta mixture without the sauce in a freezer container up to 3 months (thaw overnight in the fridge before adding the dressing.

Submitted by Joy Fleury

Food Waste + Climate Change

Did you know that food waste generates about 10% of total greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), over 3 times more than the aviation industry?

Did you also know that reducing food waste is one of the leading solutions to climate change?

In the battle against climate change, one often overlooked culprit is food waste. The global food system not only contributes to significant greenhouse gas emissions, but also wastes valuable resources and exacerbates environmental degradation. When we waste food, we are wasting ALL the energy, water, and resources that went into producing that food and getting it into our kitchens. However, by understanding the relationship between food waste and climate change and taking individual and collective actions, we can make a positive impact on both fronts.

The Link Between Food Waste and Climate Change

Food waste has a substantial carbon footprint. A whopping 58% of all the food produced in Canada annually and about 90% of the food we discard in Canada ends up as landfill, where it decomposes, emitting methane which contributes to global warming, or in compost. The production, processing, transportation, and disposal of wasted food requires vast amounts of energy and resources, further contributing to carbon emissions. As we gain a better understanding of the environmental impact of growing, processing and transporting food, more people are paying attention to reducing food waste in their kitchen at home.

What Can We Do About It?

REDUCE FOOD WASTE AT THE SOURCE: Individuals, households, and businesses can make a significant difference by better planning meals, buying only what is needed, and properly storing and preserving food. Households are the greatest contributors to food waste: 43% of food waste in the USA comes from households and 35% of all food goes unsold or uneaten. By making small changes of how you plan, store and eat your food, you can waste less food, save money and help fight climate change.

USE GREEN BINS AND COMPOSTERS: Simcoe County Green Bin materials are processed under controlled conditions and converted into other valuable products, such as soil amendment and compost, which helps reduce GHG emissions. You can also set up a composter in your backyard and use the compost in your garden.

IMPROVE YOUR DIET: our diet has too much meat, fish, processed foods, fats, sugars and dairy products; and it is short on essential ingredients such as fruits and vegetables. This imbalance, together with an unsustainable production model, poses a threat to our health and to that of the planet.

RAISE AWARENESS: Educating communities can foster behavioural change and encourage responsible consumption habits.

IMPROVE FOOD DISTRIBUTION: Enhancing logistics and infrastructure can minimize losses during transportation and storage, ensuring that surplus food reaches those in need. Best is to buy products from local farmers.

SUPPORT FOOD RECOVERY INITIATIVES: Encourage the establishment of local food banks, donation programs, and community gardens to redirect surplus food to those experiencing food insecurity.

IMPLEMENT POLICIES AND REGULATIONS: Governments must play a crucial role by introducing regulations that promote food waste reduction and support sustainable practices throughout the food supply chain.

In summary, food waste poses a significant threat to our climate and environment. By adopting a holistic approach that involves individuals, businesses, communities, and governments, we can reduce food waste, mitigate climate change, and create a more sustainable future. Together, we can make a profound impact by properly valuing food and ensuring that every plate counts in the fight against climate change.

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

Submitted by Gerard Dusastre

Summertime Fun

The Master Gardener’s Corner

August 2023

• We have certainly had the HEAT, and the rain as well. The corn is high and the weeds too! Your garden should be looking good. Congratulations!

• Now, what to do this month.

• Top up your mulch. Keep it at least 2 inches deep. It works to suppress weeds, keeps the soil cool and damp and retains the rain.

• Sow vegetable seeds again for a fall harvest of spinach, radishes and some varieties of leaf lettuce.

• Tidy up plants and shrubs with a little judicious pruning, but early in the month.

• Stake tall perennials like against the wind.

• Cut your grass at least 2’’ high to combat drying out. Water well when needed, or when it is allowed.

• Check out bulb catalogues and order spring flowering bulbs before they are sold out.

• Finally, pull or cut off the browned leaves of spring flowering bulbs. Trim back iris leaves. My mother would take her best kitchen scissors and cut up one side of each leaf fan and then down the other side to make a neat arrow. She was a picky gardener.

• Fill in any gaps in your flower garden with fall-flowering perennial plants, like mums and asters.

• Start drying flowers and herbs. Pick your lavender now for drying.

• Start to divide daylilies as they stop blooming.

• Collect seeds that have matured but not yet fallen from the seed head, plants like poppies. Once they have completely dried, store the seeds in air tight containers in a cool location or sprinkle them around your garden for colour next summer.

• Take a hard look at your garden and take pictures too, so you can decide where there are empty spaces for new plants this fall. Identify any plants that have not performed well, (or you can’t stand) and plan to replace them with a fall planting program of shrubs and perennials.

• Early Fall is a great time to sow grass seed and plant perennials, trees and shrubs. You’ll get a big jump on next Spring!

• Look for the annual Grey County Master Gardener’s fall plant sale, Saturday September 9th from 9am until noon. This year, it’s in Meaford, at the Rotary Pavilion in the harbour. Choose from unique perennials and lots of native and pollinator plants at reasonable prices.

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 TO OBTAIN YOUR OWN COPY of the 11” x 17” colourful calendar of the full year’s tips for a $2 contribution to Master Gardeners, call 519-599-5846.

Submitted by John Hethrington o,

FREE COMMUNITY CORN ROAST

Saturday, September 2 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

166 Russell St E. in Clarksburg

Hosted by St. George’s, Anglican Parish of the Blue Mountains, outdoors on the church grounds at 166 Russell St E. in Clarksburg. It’s a family affair for the entire Blue Mountain community. Everyone is welcome. Bring the kids. Last Year we hosted 480 people! FREE fresh local corn, FREE hot dogs and FREE ice cream treats for the kids. Dip your corn into St. George’s unique butter dipping cans. Come and meet your neighbours.

The Beaver Valley Legion will be onsite with a Cash Bar serving local beers and ciders.

An important feature of this event will be personally guided tours of the 127-year-old historic St. George’s church, the only church in town with a bell. So, bring the kids so they can pull the cord and try to ring the bell just for fun.

In the tradition of the St. George’s Cares Community Outreach initiatives, donations will be collected in support of the Town of the Blue Mountains Cenotaph Project which will be installing new Memorial Markers to honour the Canadian Forces, RCMP and First Responders.

For more information call 519-599-3047 or try online: www.parishofthebluemeountains.ca

St. George’s, Anglican Parish of the Blue Mountains PSA