What's Up? Georgian Bay - September 2023

Fleet-Wood Dancentre 30th Anniversary

Rich in history and accomplishments, Fleet-Wood Dancentre is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Sharron Fleet and Jane Wooding joined forces in 1994, opening the school to both recreation and pre-professional training in the Georgian Triangle. In 2002, Sharron took on the role of sole Owner/Artistic Director when Jane moved to Toronto and later Halifax to teach. Sharron is a credentialled Highland teacher and classical ballet teacher with The Cecchetti Society of Canada and heads the Cecchetti Ballet Syllabus Program.

In 2011 Sharron Fleet was honoured with the Inaugural Arts and Culture Award recognizing her history of preparing students for college and university dance programs. The Robert Kemp Award funded Fleet-Wood’s first Nutcracker Production, which is now a bi-annual tradition along with yearly Christmas holiday performances in Historic Downtown Collingwood windows.

Hundreds of students have passed through Fleet-Wood’s doors. Of note, three Fleet-Wood graduates, Jonathan Fleet, Sierra Maraj Fleet, and Colin Eccles, furthered their training in Toronto and later returned to Fleet-Wood as accredited teachers. Attending George Brown College, Sierra graduated with a three-year Dance Performance Studies Diploma, and Jonathan the Dance Preparation Program and The Early Childhood Education Program. Colin studied Russian ballet technique while in Toronto, obtained an Honours Bachelor of Music degree from McMaster University and is a Level 3 Essentrics® Instructor. Rounding out the team are Melissa and Jessica Mills. Keaghan and Jamie Dea and Lauren Lesage.

Their combined training covers an impressive list of dance styles: kinderdance, pre-ballet/jazz, ballet, pointe, contemporary, modern, jazz, acro, contact improv, theatre dance, tap, hip hop and Essentrics®. Offering the largest selection of classes in the Georgian Triangle, Fleet-Wood provides three streams of classes: recreational, preprofessional, and competitive for aspiring dancers ages two to adult.

Students can look forward to beautiful class attire, recital and competition costumes produced in-house to the dancers measurements. A custom fit! The Fleet-Wood Boutique also carries ballet and jazz shoes, along with a full range of tights, year round.

Fleet-Wood School of Dance is nestled in the heart of Creative Simcoe Street, beside the library at 65 Simcoe Street.

Publisher’s Note

Hey, where did the summer go?

With fall just around the corner, we will welcome a new season and new beginnings. It is with great pleasure to welcome Don Beaulieu, professional photographer and writer to the What’s Up? Georgian Bay team! In Don’s own words, “I am delighted to be a part of the What’s Up? Georgian Bay team and look forward to bringing more local news to our readers”.

Happy fall and happy back to school!

Victoria Ledden

JOHN ARMSTRONG, Sales Representative

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Cell: 705-351-2767

and THE ARMSTRONG TEAM!

Brenda - Cell: 705-828-4571

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Collingwood Office: 330 First Street Collingwood

Wasaga Beach Office: 1249 Mosley St. Wasaga Beach

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OWNER/ PUBLISHER/ AD SALES Victoria Ledden | 705-429-0761 | vledden1@gmail.com

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Stonebridge Wasaga Beach Blues

ADVANCE

TICKETS: $15 per day $40 for 3 days $100 VIP Pass for 3 days

JORDAN JOHN

Durham County Poets

KC Roberts & the Live Revolution

Ben Racine Band

Angelique Francis

Soulstack with Roly Platt

Loco Zydeco

Lazo

David Gogo

Rosie’s Smokehouse Deluxe

Jim Dan Dee

ZED HEAD featuring Neil Chapman

Boomerang

James Anthony Band featuring Danny B

The Tonewheels

Shuffle Demons

Dylan Wickens Band

Luke + the Apostles

Junior Jam featuring Drained and much, much more!

WASAGA BEACH BLUES

This September will see the 11th anniversary of the Stonebridge Wasaga Beach Blues. The festival entails three days of music and merriment at the Stonebridge Town Centre in the town’s east end, September 15, 16 and 17th. There have been some lead-up events, with one more happening on September 7th, the week before the main event, at the Beach Bar featuring The Fraser Melvin Band. Some readers who frequent the outdoor markets, a couple of which are mentioned in this edition of What’s UP?, have seen the event’s artistic director, Gabor Szepesi manning a booth; handing out programs, selling tickets, T-shirts and hats.

Back in 1969 Szepesi was in the house band at the Dardanella in Wasaga Beach. He has performed with a number of successful, wellknown bands and musicians, largely in the Toronto area over the years. He has also supplied concert gear for some of the best and biggest. Up this way, he was a part of the popular Wayne Buttery and the Groove Project band. In fact, Buttery was artistic director for Stonebridge Wasaga Beach Blues until his passing a few years ago. It seemed like a natural progression for Szepesi to step in.

Szepesi has been living in Wasaga Beach since 2015 and continues to be popular among the music fans around Georgian Bay and beyond. He and his team have an excellent roster of top blues performers coming once again to the Beach. On opening night, beginning just after 7 p.m. will be Luke and the Apostles, Shuffle Demons, and KC Roberts + the Live Revolution. With two stages, there is virtually no time between acts, but for announcements and introductions.

On the Saturday (September 16) beginning at noonish it’ll be Junior Jam with Drained. They’re followed by Dylan Wickens Band, The Tonewheels, Boomerang, Jim Dan Dee, Loco Zydeco, Angelique Francis. Durham County Poets wrap up that evening.

Sunday is another blockbuster day starting at noon with James Anthony Band featuring Danny B. They are followed by ZED HEAD featuring Neil Chapman, Rosie’s Smokehouse Deluxe (which includes Szepesi), Lazo, Soulstack featuring Roly Platt on harmonica, Ben Racine Band and finally; the outstanding Jordan John.

For all the details, tickets and to get a copy of the program (at local retailers) or check out the website

wasagabeachblues.com

Submitted by Don Beaulieu

What’s Up? Georgian Bay

Jordan John

Gabor Szepesi

*Children under 12 free Performances subject to change without notice. E.&O.E.

3 Tips for an Eco-Friendly Lunch Box

(NC) Back-to-school means back to packing lunches. As more schools are encouraging “litter-less” lunches, it can be hard to come up with ways to make your child’s lunch more sustainable and waste free. Here are three tips to make it easier:

Portion

to Reduce Packaging

Buy food you’ll use in your child’s lunch, like yogurt or applesauce, in larger quantities. Purchase a big tub that you can portion into reusable containers, rather than individually packaged cups, to avoid wasteful packaging.

Put re-usable or wooden cutlery and a cloth napkin into your child’s lunch box to reduce what’s thrown away. A napkin is also something you can personalize so kids can stand out from their friends.

Consider Where Your Food is Coming From

Grow your own salad, herbs or vegetables where possible. This saves on packaging and transportation-related emissions, which helps reduce your carbon footprint. It’s also a great activity for engaging the kids.

When shopping, look for products from companies that are prioritizing eco-friendly initiatives. You can often identify them by the packaging.

Meal Plan, Upcook, & Make Your Own Snacks

Instead of buying individually wrapped snacks at the grocery store, try healthier, more environmentally conscious options. You could also turn this into a Sunday activity with the kids by batch-making homemade granola bars. Not only can this be a fun family activity, but you’ll save countless wrappers from going to a landfill.

Meal planning helps to reduce food waste. Are you likely to have leftovers that can be “upcooked” and added to your child’s lunch? Leftover chicken from last night’s dinner can be used on a sandwich, or leftover bacon from breakfast can be a tasty salad topping.

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Sneaky Ways to Add Protein to Your Diet

(NC) Found in staples like meat, eggs and legumes such as beans and lentils, protein helps build and repair muscle and tissue. The amount of protein you need varies from person to person, but the Canada Food Guide recommends that it makes up about one quarter of every meal and snack.

Here’s how to get protein into every meal of the day – without relying on meat.

1. GO GREEK

Thick and creamy Greek (or Balkan or Scandinavian style) yogurt typically has more protein than the average tub of traditional yogurt. It’s a great way to pack some staying power into breakfast. And there are plenty of vegan varieties if you’re dairy-free or lactose intolerant. Just avoid super-high fat content or extra sugar and additives whatever you choose. Top it with fresh fruit and granola or museli cereal for a complete meal, or use it in potato salads, dips and baked goods instead of mayo or oil to sneak in extra protein and reduce fat without losing out on taste or texture.

2. ROAST CHICKPEAS

Stick a sheet pan of drained and rinsed chickpeas in the oven at 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) for about 40 minutes. Give them a stir about halfway through and you’ll find they come out deliciously crispy. Use them to make summer salads a little more filling or snack on them by the handful. They are a naturally protein- and fibre-rich way to stop hunger pangs from striking. Before roasting, coat them in a teaspoon of oil and your favourite spices and herbs – maybe paprika and garlic salt or simply salt and pepper – so they pack a punch of satisfying flavour too.

3.

Adding peanut butter, cream cheese or a sliced egg to your toast is classic. But if you prefer plain buttered toast for breakfast, or want a meat-free way to add oomph to sandwiches, sprouted grain bread can be a great way to pack in natural protein without nut butter, dairy or eggs. Sprouted grain bread, for example, has plant-based protein to help keep your energy and focus steady throughout the day. Sprouting the grains makes more fibre and vitamins easily available to your body.

Courtesy of Silver Hills Bakery

LEVEL UP YOUR BREAD

A Back-to-School Snack

(NC) It’s time to go back to school and many parents are on the hunt for snack options that are both healthy and something their kids want to eat. Let us introduce this delicious banana bread with streusel topping recipe. Using milk gives this bread a light, moist texture with a perfectly browned crust. This banana bread will stay fresh all week long, so get ahead of the game and bake it on Sunday. But let’s face it, it’s so good it might not last the full week.

Banana Bread with Streusel Topping

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Serves: 8

INGREDIENTS

Streusel topping (optional)

½ cup (125 ml) raw shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

2 tsp (10 ml) packed light or dark brown sugar

2 tsp (10 ml) poppy seeds

1/8 tsp (0.5 ml) kosher salt

1 tbsp (15 ml) unsalted butter, melted and cooled

Banana Bread

¼ cup (60 ml) milk

½ cup (125 ml - 1 stick) unsalted butter, softened, plus more for greasing

pan

1 2/3 cups (410 ml) unbleached all-purpose flour, plus more for pan

1 ½ (375 ml) cups mashed very ripe bananas (about 3 medium or 2 large)

1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract

1 tsp (5 ml) baking powder

½ tsp (2 ml) baking soda

¾ tsp (3 ml) kosher or sea salt

1/3 (80 ml) cup honey

1 large egg, lightly beaten

DIRECTIONS

For Streusel Topping (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) with rack in middle. Spread pepitas on a baking sheet and bake until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool, then coarsely chop.

2. In a bowl, mix cooled pepitas with sugar, poppy seeds and salt until sugar is incorporated. Stir in butter. Set aside (leave oven on).

For Banana Bread

1. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter and dust with flour, tapping out any excess.

2. Stir together bananas, milk and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

3. Using an electric mixer, beat butter and honey on medium speed in another large bowl until light and fluffy; about 5 minutes. Add egg and beat until combined. Add banana mixture and beat until combined. Add dry ingredients in two additions, beating on low after each addition and scraping down sides of bowl as necessary until fully incorporated.

4. Transfer batter to prepared pan and smooth top with spatula. Sprinkle with streusel topping.

5. Bake, rotating once halfway through, until sides are starting to pull away from pan and a tester inserted into centre of bread comes out clean; about 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes.

6. Cool in pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Run a butter knife around edges of loaf, then carefully invert onto a plate (some streusel will fall off; you can sprinkle it back on). Invert back onto wire rack and let cool completely before slicing.

Courtesy of Fairlife

Prioritize Your Pet’s Health

(BPT) - A healthy pet doesn’t happen by accident. Even a dog or cat without pre-existing health conditions needs their owner’s help to live their best life and maintain their wellbeing. Check out these five tips from pet experts who explain how to prioritize your pet’s health to keep your four-legged companion happy and healthy.

1. PROVIDE COMPLETE AND BALANCED NUTRITION

Ensuring your pet is receiving proper nutrition is key. “Many pet foods on the market today are meant to be the only source of nutrition for pets,” said Jason Gagné, DVM, DACVIM (Nutrition), Veterinary Technical Communications. “That’s why it’s critical that they’re 100 percent complete and balanced for the intended life stage.

When you see “complete & balanced” on your pet’s food, it means that it provides your pet the right amount of all essential nutrients and in the right proportions that their bodies need.

2. GET PLENTY OF EXERCISE

Nothing strengthens the bond between you and your pet like doing something energetic together. Whether you take your dog for a walk in a place you both love or play a new game with your cat, spending quality time together is top of the list when it comes to showing your pet you love them and care for their well-being. Not only are pets kept active, but pet owners also reap the health benefits here.

3. TAKE CARE OF THEIR SKIN AND COAT

Brushing your pet isn’t just for looks. Taking care of your dog’s skin and coat is important for your pup’s health. “A dog’s skin and coat is their largest organ and protects their bones, muscles and other organs,” says Gagné. “It also plays a vital role maintaining body temperature.”

Using a supplement is a great option if your dog has sensitive skin, as it may include skinloving nutrients like MCTs, vitamin E, DHA & EPA.

4. TEACH THEM NEW SKILLS

Investing time in your pet is a wonderful way to show them how much you care, and it’s another great way to care for their physical and mental health. “Teaching new skills will help keep their minds sharp, is a great form of entertainment and can incorporate physical activity as well,” said Dr. Ragen McGowan, PhD, Animal Behaviour Scientist. “Interactive puzzle toys for dogs or food maze bowls for cats and dogs are great ways to keep them mentally fit.”

5. CONSIDER USING SUPPLEMENTS

To make sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your pet as healthy as possible, consider using supplements to help address their specific needs.

For example, a probiotic supplement that contains a safe and effective strain of beneficial bacteria can promote normal intestinal microflora, which means digestive and immune support for cats and dogs.

“If your dog or cat is displaying anxious behaviours, ask your veterinarian about a probiotic supplement that helps pets maintain calm behaviour and cope with external stressors,” said McGowan. And for owners who feel their cat could use help staying hydrated, a nutrientenriched water which can increase total liquid intake when compared to cats consuming only water and dry food.*

*Cats must consume at least 2 oz per 5 lbs of bodyweight daily for benefit.

Courtesy of Purina

Marvelous Year for Stayner’s

One of the benefits of living or visiting the Georgian Bay area during the summer are the farmers markets. Many combine arts and crafts and have live music on offer. Most towns and cities have a weekly market; they are not hard to come by if you are staying in the area. Markets happen on different days of the week and different times of the day. Town(ship) websites list their markets with days and times.

An excellent example of a successful market has been happening for 9 seasons in the town of Stayner, with the moniker Music, Market and Park It. This market offers live music, such as a single or duo during the afternoon hours, and a full band in the evening. To supplement the park benches around the gazebo for the evening performances, people bring their own chairs. All types of folding chairs can be seen. Early birds get the best seat location. Thursday is the day for this market, 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The vendor stalls are a fine mix of fresh produce, prepared food, arts, crafts and interest groups. Classic cars line a side-street. There are baked goods and even a winery represented. There are activities for children (or the young at heart) including sidewalk chalk and wooden blocks. This is a very social event. Regulars and town folk meet up almost every week; old friends who have not seen each other for a while cross paths to share some news, laughs and memories. There is a hand-washing station and a “Johnny-on-the-spot”, if that is still a term we use.

Each week, a community organization is selected to occupy a booth. Some vendors partner with local organizations such as the Clearview Youth Centre, Clearview Public Library and the Stayner Garden Club. All the vendors are eager to talk about their service or product. Their stories are always interesting and are a way to learn more about their product and the work that goes into it, from crafts to farm goods.

Vendors new to Music, Market and Park It this year were Collingwood Honey, The Roost Winery and Grandmas Beach Treats. Some of the old regulars include Cedar Creek Farms, MMEA Restaurant & Catering, and D & D Meats of Alliston. There are incentives for vendors to attend each week, including $100 off their annual fee. There is a loyalty card program in place for shoppers too. At the south end of the property is the Tourism & Heritage Information Centre. It is open during the market and is operated by the Stayner Heritage Society. Each Thursday there are between 28 to 35 vendors on hand at Music, Market and Park It.

Most evenings, barring a downpour, attendance may be around the 1,000 mark. If a particularly popular band is performing, that number can nearly double. This is a regular attraction for music fans. For the adults, the Stayner Kinsmen hosts a licensed bar.

Community Culture and Tourism Coordinator (Clearview Township) Amanda Murray says “Our team loves working with the vendors and we are pleased to have new vendors...” taking part. The market is overseen by a team of five students and two Clearview staff. Clearview Township recruits students in February as part of their overall student recruitment endeavours. Vendor applications become available later in February. Vendors may be seasonal or weekly. They try to put an emphasis on farmers, producers and food products. Stayner’s Music, Market and Park It will begin again on June 6, 2024. The last day for this year was August 24th. It takes place at Station Park at the east end of downtown Stayner, where the railway station was once located

Real Estate Broker

In the gazebo is classic rock group Grey Road 1. They were certainly a crowd pleaser. Music, Market and Part It has presented a variety of music styles during the summer including country, folk, rock and big band combos. It is a major draw for area music fans. Dancing was had.

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Music, Market & Park It

Providing some savoury items to stem the hungries are Janice and Lesia. They are manning the barbecue at the Stayner Skating Club booth.

One of the vendors offering farm fresh products is Birch Farms from Hillsdale. Here is Meaghan showing off a box of delicious berries.

Ron West is seen here among artworks by the Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts, which is based in Studio 1 at 65 Simcoe Street, in Collingwood. That’s one of his pieces, out front.

Keeping the vendor area bathed in tunes on this day were Heather and Doug Brown. They are a popular duo who can often be seen entertaining in retirement homes and local parks. Their repertoire covers many styles of popular tunes. They may be one of the busiest duos in the area.

Stonebridge Wasaga Beach Blues’ musical director, Gabor Szepesi, shows off one of this year’s T-shirts. Szepesi and his crew were handing out the program for this year’s event which takes place this month (September 15-17).

Always popular are the older cars, described as vintage, classic and antique. Car buffs are always eager to talk about their “babies” and reminisce about their history and similar models. They are amazingly well-kept and cared for (The cars, not necessarily the car buffs themselves).

It was easy to see when market visitors decided it was supper time by the lines at the food vendors. Here we see a line for burgers and hot dogs at the Stayner Figure Skating Club booth. They were worth the wait.

Submitted by Don Beaulieu

Drums in Stayner Bringing People Together

Eco Park in Clearview Township, north of Stayner along Mowat Street North, is a lovely little place. Although, at the time of writing, Google satellite doesn’t show it as such. There is a community garden, rich with vegetables, flowers and herbs, a part of the Stayner Garden Club’s efforts. There is a pond, grassy areas and parking. And a dog park. It is also home to the Clearview Memorial Forest. This planted forest of memorial trees is a co-operative effort of the Township and the Stayner Lions Club. A stone plaque notes that the forest is a place of peace and remembrance. Benches provide seating. Technically, the memorial forest is beside Eco Park on township land, but on the ground, it all seems like one continuous outdoor space to enjoy.

Wednesday evenings this summer have seen a musical, inclusive group, meeting in the community garden area of the park. This group is the Stayner Drum Circle. As community members trim and nurture their plants, a group of up to 20 or so folk learn, practice and play on their hand drums. Occasionally other hand percussion will be a part of the music. There is no audition required to join the group, newbies are encouraged.

Most popular are African drums and tunes with traditional stories or historical purposes are played. Your particular instrument does not have to be of African origin. Most of the instruments are djembes. This is a style of drum from west Africa, Mali, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Senegal, and Gambia. Some members have a Bougarabou; an African drum with cow skin head, from Senegal. These are shorter than a djembe and the goblet shape less pronounced and are played rather like conga drums. Some folk had conical-shaped drums, ashikos. These come from the Yoruban culture in Nigeria and Benin, west Africa and have a water buffalo skin. Recently a chap was out with bongos and a variety of Latin instruments. He was welcomed to join in as he felt the urge. It added another flavour and delighted all. A variety of tones can be had from any of these drums, using different techniques and striking the drum in different locations on their head with various force.

Group leader Janet Hayward has a set of three drums (dunun) which are related, considered a kit. The larger bass drum is referred to as the Papa drum, the Dunumba. The Momma drum (middle size) is used to hold the melody is the Sangban and the smallest one is the Baby, or Kenkeni and is the time keeper, keeping a simple, steady beat. These too, are a west African instrument. These drums are struck with beaters, or as most of us may say “sticks”, but they are thick sticks, sometimes resembling rhythm sticks or claves.

The Stayner Drum circle gathers publicly around these parts, particularly Wasaga Beach. Hayward, provides instruction and the history of the tunes, complete with printed guides. Most members are not terribly musically literate, so the rhythms are set out based on easy phrases. Some of us have seen memes online using this method, even if some are humorous, basing the phrases on food items. We include an example here. This makes for quick and easy understanding of the rhythms involved. There are stories attached to African drum songs. For example, here is a story, provided by Hayward, one of her favourites. It is a traditional women’s rhythm from Guinea, west Africa, called Moribayassa: Guinean drumming master Mamady Keita (who passed away in 2021) described it as “a very old rhythm and dance, which, to this day, plays a highly unusual role in the life of a woman. If a woman has a really big problem, such as illness in the family or childlessness, she will at first

pursue all the opportunities for help in the village, even consulting a fetish maker. Fetishes are emblematic objects in primitive African art, they are linked to many occult practices such as those used by voodoo.

“When she has exhausted all of these resources, as her last hope, she takes a vow: ‘When this huge difficulty is over, I will dance Moribayassa.’ Between this decision and the dance, years may pass.

“This vow is so significant that a woman can take it only once in her life. Even today, the rhythm is played exclusively for this joyful dance of a woman who has overcome a difficult situation. For this dance, the woman dresses and shows herself in a way that she normally would never dare to do: She wears old, torn clothes; shows her naked legs; and behaves like a crazy woman who is allowed to break all taboos. In this way, she circles the village three or seven times, singing and dancing, accompanied by one or more musicians. The women of the village follow her and sing, too. After that, the dancer changes her clothes, and buries the old rags under a mango tree. In my village, Balandugu, this mango tree is called Moribayassa.”

The popularity of drumming may be surprising. Hayward explains where people attending the Stayner Drum Circle have driven from: (We have) “...people from at least 7 different drum groups: WARPED (West African Rhythm Practice Ensemble of Drummers), the Bond Head Drummers, the Wellness Drumming group from Alliston’s Matthews House Hospice, the Georgina Drum Circle, the Creemore Drumming Collective, the Wasaga Beach Library Drum Circle, and the (former) Rhythm Grace Drum Circle of Barrie. The gathering featured in the photographs accompanying this article were all people from WARPED, the Creemore Drumming Collective and the Georgina Drumming Circle.

People have travelled from Sutton and Toronto to drum here. Most are more local, but from a variety of areas such as Bradford, Alliston, Tottenham, Collingwood, Blue Mountains, Dunedin, Wasaga Beach, Creemore and of course, Stayner. The Latin-instrumented visitor was from Elmvale.

Hayward resides in Alliston. Many people may recognize her as an English teacher (36 years!) at Banting Memorial High School. She also ran a weekly drum circle at the school in addition to community drum circles.

Currently she facilitates Wellness Drumming at Matthews House Hospice in Alliston and the WARPED group in Creemore. You may have seen/heard her given drumming workshops in a variety of schools and at conferences. She’s played at festivals and community fundraising events all over the map. She has studied with a drumming teacher for years and taken many classes with dozens of different teachers of west African/Afro-Haitian, Afro-Cuban, Caribbean, Brazilian, and Middle Eastern drumming and small percussion, and drumming facilitation.

Hayward explains her “...passion for the drum was an accidental discovery, while taking a stained-glass stepping stone course at the Haliburton School of the Arts in the summer of 2003. I had no particular aptitude for stained glass, but the sounds coming from the drumming class down the hall bewitched me, and the sight of all the participants’ happy faces compelled me to come back to take the drum class. That led to years of returning for more drum classes and a new life path for me in drumming which I can’t envision my life without now.”

Submitted by Don Beaulieu

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.

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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

SUMMER SAFETY TIPS FOR YOUNG DRIVERS

(BPT) - Many young people who have recently received their driver’s license look forward to getting behind the wheel and driving to visit friends, attend events and travel in general throughout the summer. However, this time of year is when accidents on the road are more likely to occur. The 100 deadliest driving days of the year fall between Victoria Day and Labour Day. During this period, car accidents tend to increase, including among young drivers.

“During the summer, when school is out and it stays light longer, more teenagers might be on the road driving more miles,” said Kevin Quinn, Vice President of Claims and Customer Experience at Mercury Insurance. “Many young drivers lack experience and may be more likely to engage in risky behaviours behind the wheel. These behaviours can increase the possibility of an accident.”

Some of the leading causes of accidents and fatalities on the road which all drivers should be aware of during this time of year include:

• Distracted driving. texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise taking focus off of the road greatly increases the risk of an accident among teens, especially if they are traveling with teen passengers.

• Speeding. Young and inexperienced drivers are still learning how to adapt their speed to traffic conditions, as well as how to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

• Impaired driving. Driving while impaired affects judgment, awareness and the ability to react.

• Not wearing a seatbelt. Not wearing a seatbelt while driving will increase the likelihood of serious injury or death in the event of a crash.

Quinn offers parents and caregivers the following safety tips to help teens prevent car accidents and ensure the safety of everyone on the road this summer.

MIKE’S TIRES

• Set driving rules. Establish and define clear rules for your teen driver. They will be less likely to make impulsive decisions while behind the wheel.

• Put it in writing. Teens may promise to be responsible drivers, but they may be tempted to break the rules while driving on their own. Parents can help teens keep their word by having them sign a contract stating that they understand the rules for retaining driving privileges, as well as the circumstances under which these privileges would be lost.

• Model safe driving behaviours. Lead by example by always wearing a seatbelt, obeying speed limits and avoiding distractions while driving. Even though they are older, teens are still watching you and modeling their driving behaviour after your own.

• Practice supervised driving. Help your teen gain more experience behind the wheel. Supervise your teen while they’re driving and reinforce safe driving habits.

• Review your auto insurance coverage. Make sure you have the right amount of protection for the new, young driver in your household that will protect them in case of an accident or unexpected event.

Summer is a time of freedom and adventure for many young drivers, but it’s also a time when car accidents are more likely to happen. Make sure your teen is extra cautious when behind the wheel to help prevent accidents and ensure a safe summer travel season for everyone.

Mobile Automotive & Marine Detailing

Helicopter Crop Dusting in Springwater Township

On a Thursday afternoon late in July, just as the August issue of What’s Up? was on the press, I was on a business call (that on its own is very unusual). During that conversation a helicopter flew over, very low. It

The task was done at this field, but I had a hunch there was refilling with spray required, not to far away. Another field would likely be receiving the same treatment.

I found the helicopter and a team of three (pilot included) in a field one concession south and two lots to the east. It was refilling and I was able to get some shots of it in the air. I did not get photographs of it spraying as I suffered technical issues with the two cameras I had with me. Go figure. Both of them. One is remedied. The spare... I dunno.

I’m sure that “crop dusting” sounds old fashioned to many people. The company performing the service was Great Lakes Helicopters Corporation and I believe Brendon “Coyote” Simons was the most excellent pilot. It was interesting to see his machine maneuver so quickly and deliberately.

I contacted Great Lakes Helicopter Corporation and asked if they had a shot of one of their units spraying a field. They were gracious enough to comply for us, as you can see here.

was lower than low flying helicopters generally fly here. It caused me to comment to my telephone friend, I was afraid it may be an emergency landing, next to my house. A second, perhaps third helicopter flew over, or perhaps the same one circling. I continued to provide updates on the telephone as this was so unusual. It was flying very close to the tree tops. Right outside my window. I live on two mostly-treed acres, with a corn field to the east, the direction the helicopter(s) were headed at the time.

In the end, it turned out to be only one helicopter and not an Ornge air ambulance, nor was there an emergency or escaped convict involved.

It seemed the helicopter was circling the field next to me. I could not see clearly for the trees, it was dipping below my sight line. Perhaps there was something besides corn growing in the field. The action of the helicopter didn’t really fit the scenarios I was coming up with. It was determined to be circling and did I mention, very low. It was not hovering over a point of interest, nor setting down.

After the telephone call, I took a walk (sans camera, duh) along County Road 92, across from Ritchies’ Feeds ‘n’ Needs and the flea market (west of Elmvale) to see what I could see. The helicopter had stopped doing what it was doing. Of course. After a couple minutes it appeared over the trees at the south end of the field. Coming toward me, just above the trees. Then it ducked down even more over the corn. I thought it was going to land. Nope. It was crop dusting. In truth, a spray, not a dry dusty thing.

The fun part was the fact that at the north end of the field, along the highway, are hydro and communication lines, on poles. The helicopter was flying lower than those! The pilot pulled up at the last moment to spray the corn but not trip on the wires. That’s where I was standing, roadside, under the wires. I watched this a couple times, then went back for my camera. I employed my car for that trip.

GLHC is a well known (in crop circles... Ha ha ha) agricultural service operator for their aerial work. Each year they offer fungicide aerial application (corn and beans typically) throughout Ontario. The season typically spans from the middle of July to the middle of August, depending on planting time in the spring and maturity. The fungicide is ideally applied at the tassel stage in corn. Optimal conditions of application is typically best done during lower wind speeds and moderate temperatures.

GLHC has a fleet of 5–6 aircraft and fully self contained “mix rigs” which provide water, fuel and the ground crew supporting the operations. Helicopter tank sizes vary somewhat but can carry approximately 300 liters of fungicide/water mix per load. This works out to about 15 acres per load before landing and refilling.

Each year GLHC completes approximately 40–50 thousand acres within a 3 week period with skilled pilots and ground crew teams. Keep an eye to the sky next summer for these flying farm workers around Georgian Bay.

Submitted by Don Beaulieu

@GeorgianGW

Farmer’s Market Wrap-Up

The end of August has brought a few farmers markets to an end, while others continue for a while longer. Creemore Farmers’ & Craft Market will hold its final event on the 28th of October

A feature of this market is the popular attraction of having a musician performing. There have been a variety music of styles over the summer. When What’s Up? visited early in the month, Dean Rodd was playing; his performing moniker is Copper Strings. His repertoire runs the popular music gamut including rock, country and folk.

Creemore holds its market, every Saturday from 8:30 to 12:30, at Station on the Green at 10 Caroline Street East (corner of Caroline Street East and Library Street—the former railway station grounds. The old station is still there, renovated). The main market strip occupies the former rail bed.

Showroom:

1470 Mosley St., Unit 5, Wasaga Beach

705-429-9382

info@georgiangraniteworks.ca georgiangraniteworks.ca

The range of vendors is wide, in terms of wares. Farm fresh products are popular and tend to be the main event of course. Crafts, clothing... it’s all there. On the warm, or shall we say hot, summer days, it seemed odd to see a vendor with a booth full of knitted items, mittens, sweaters et al. But, we know this is Canada and winter will be coming. Joan Robotham of Dunedin and her daughter Wendy have knit all the pieces. Of her mom, Wendy says “She taught me everything” about how to knit. Their garments do look excellent. The amount of time and effort put into them is to be respected.

Promoting the CIBC Run for the Cure, marketing lead Linda Haines was on hand to stir up interest and recruit runners (or walkers) for this year’s event. It takes place on Sunday, October 1st. Haines explained that one can “...walk one kilometre or run 5 kilometres”. Her enthusiasm is likely to inspire just about anyone to take part.

Here are some other farmers markets operating after August: Springwater Farmers Market at 35 Queen Street West, Elmvale (the main street). Last days for this one are Friday September 1st and 8th. It runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wasaga Beach Farmers Market at 1710 Mosley

Street (RecPlex) continues to run on Thursdays, 3 to 7 p.m. until the 28th of September.

The Collingwood Farmers Market, held Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., carries on through to October 7th.

Thornbury’s Farmers Market also runs into October on Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. October 8th is the final day for this one.

In Meaford, you’ll find their farmers market along the water, at 1 Don Bumstead Drive. It will run on Fridays until October 7th.

Further afield, the Owen Sound Farmers Market runs on Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. until December 31st. It is at 88 Eighth Street (at First Street).

Submitted by Don Beaulieu

KITCHEN CABINET PAINTING

Refinish your existing cabinetry or install new doors, hardware, sinks, counters, even add to your existing cabinetry.

It is an unhurried sort that tends to shop the farmers markets, taking time to appreciate the farm fresh products, prepared food and the crafted goods. Taking time to talk to the vendors is always a delightful insight about their commodities.

Trees’ Significance for the Environment Human Health and Climate

Amidst urban paving, the rapid growth and developments, the TREE stands as a symbol of life and resilience. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, trees play an indispensable role in shaping our environment, fostering human well-being, and combating the challenges posed by a changing climate. This dynamic relationship between trees, the environment, human health, and climate is a vital triad that merits our attention and stewardship.

1. ENVIRONMENTAL GUARDIANS:

Trees serve as guardians of our environment by performing numerous ecosystem services. Through the process of photosynthesis, trees absorb carbon dioxide, storing it in their trunks, branches, and leaves, helping to mitigate the effects of global warming. Additionally, trees act as natural air purifiers by filtering pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter, thus improving air quality and reducing respiratory ailments.

Forests are vital habitats for an array of flora and fauna. They foster biodiversity, providing homes and sustenance for countless species. These ecosystems act as complex interconnected webs where every species plays a role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. Furthermore, trees help prevent soil erosion, conserve water, and support natural hydrological cycles by capturing rainwater and releasing it gradually, reducing the risk of flooding.

2. NURTURING HUMAN HEALTH:

A simple walk in a forest or a stroll through a tree-lined avenue has profound effects on human health. The concept of “forest bathing” – spending time in wooded areas – has gained recognition for its stress-reducing and mood-enhancing benefits. Phytoncides, natural compounds emitted by trees, have been shown to lower stress hormones, boost the immune system, and alleviate anxiety and depression.

Trees also offer a valuable respite from the sweltering heat of urban environments. Their shade reduces the “urban heat island” effect, where cities experience higher temperatures due to human activities and a lack of green cover. Consequently, this cooling effect reduces energy consumption by decreasing the demand for air conditioning, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

3. CLIMATE WARRIORS:

In an era of mounting concern over climate change, trees emerge as steadfast warriors in the battle against global warming. Their ability to sequester carbon dioxide, a major contributor to the greenhouse effect, is a pivotal element of climate change mitigation strategy. Reforestation and afforestation initiatives are being pursued globally to restore degraded landscapes and create carbon sinks, aiding in the fight against climate change.

Ontario lost most of its ash trees this last decade and now the Oak Wilt, a new disease that can kill red oaks in a few weeks, has been detected in our region for the first time, endangering 8% of Simcoe County and Georgian Bay tree canopy. The loss of trees not only releases stored carbon but also disrupts ecosystems and exacerbates climate change. Thus, preserving existing forests and implementing sustainable land-use practices are essential steps in maintaining the equilibrium of the climate.

In summary, trees are essential components of our environment, contributors to human health, and critical players in the battle to stabilize our climate. Recognizing their significance prompts us to take action, whether it’s planting a tree in our backyard, supporting reforestation projects, or advocating for sustainable land management policies.

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

Submitted by Gerard Dusastre

Signs of September

The Master Gardener’s Corner

September 2023

• Trim back perennials like Daylilies and Iris. My mother always cut the iris fans up one side and down the other into a perfect V. But she was a picky gardener. Divide them as needed. Make sure it’s a cool, cloudy day to divide and replant, or to pot up plants for your neighbours, or for fall 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 visit https:youtu.be/KmTTyGNoRB4, but don’t laugh at the old man grunting and groaning, as he divides perennials.

• Buy and plant spring-flowering bulbs. Your efforts will be handsomely rewarded next spring. Check out the website www.bulbsrus.com for good deals. Add some water to the bottom of the hole, then some soil, then a little bonemeal fertilizer or special bulb food. Water well after planting to start root growth

• 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.

• With cool nights and hoped-for fall rains, it’s the ideal time for lawn repair. Dig out weeds, add clean, weed-free topsoil and re-seed. Keep the planted area moist.

• Fertilize lawns with root-building “Fall Fertilizer” 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, probably with a high first number (Nitrogen). Save it for early next spring.

• Even with the rain we have had this summer, deep down it is probably still dry. Dig a little test hole, say 14”-16” deep. Check the moisture levels at that depth. If the bottom of the hole is dry, water your gardens weekly and deeply until frost. Buy a soaker end and put it on the end of your hose. Then put it in the middle of your relatively flat garden beds and let the water seep slowly in.

• 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 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 Hethrington