Berries and More Berries
STRAWBERRIES AND CREAM SHORTCAKE
Servings 10 Prep Time 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS
1 package pound cake mix 18 1/4 or 18 1/2-ounce
1 14-ounce can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk (NOT evaporated milk)
1/2 cup cold water
1 package instant vanilla flavour pudding mix 4-serving size
1 container frozen non-dairy whipped topping, thawed (1 3/4 cups)
4-ounces
1 quart fresh strawberries cleaned, hulled and halved (about 1 1/2 pounds)
DIRECTIONS
1. Prepare pound cake mix as package directs; pour into prepared 9-inch round pans. Bake according to package directions. Cool.
2. In large bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk and water; beat in pudding mix. Chill 5 minutes. Fold in whipped topping. Place 1 cake layer on serving plate. Top with half each of pudding mixture and strawberries. Repeat layers. Refrigerate leftovers.
LEMON RASPBERRY RIBBON PIE
Servings - 9 in pie Prep Time 20 minutes Cook Time 0 minutes
INGREDIENTS
1 package frozen red raspberries, thawed 10-ounces
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk (NOT evaporated milk) 14-ounce
1/2 cup lemon juice from concentrate
Yellow food coloring if desired
2 cups 1 pint whipping cream, stiffly whipped
1 9-inch pastry shell, baked
Fresh raspberries for garnish optional
DIRECTIONS
1. In small saucepan, combine raspberries and cornstarch; cook and stir until thickened and clear. Cool 10 minutes. Chill thoroughly, about 20 minutes.
2. In large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice and food coloring if desired. Fold in whipped cream. Spread one-third lemon mixture into prepared pastry shell; top with raspberry mixture then remaining lemon mixture.
3. Chill thoroughly. Garnish as desired. Refrigerate leftovers.
BLUEBERRY KEY LIME CHEESECAKE BARS
Recipe courtesy of Inside BruCrew Life blog
Servings 24 Prep Time 25 minutes Cook Time 45minutes
INGREDIENTS
Nonstick cooking spray
30 vanilla cream-filled cookies
1/4 cup butter melted
3 packages cream cheese 8 ounces each, softened 3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup sour cream
1/3 cup key lime juice
DIRECTIONS
1 tablespoon key lime zest 1/4 cup flour
3 eggs green gel food colouring optional
1 can Blueberry Pie Filling 21 ounces, divided
1 container whipped topping 8 ounces, thawed key lime slices optional
1. Place baking sheet on bottom rack of oven. Fill halfway with water. Heat oven to 325 F. Line 9-by-13-inch pan with foil and spray with nonstick spray.
2. Using food processor, pulse cookies until crumbly. Stir together crumbs and butter. Press evenly into bottom of prepared pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until creamy. Add sugar and sour cream, and beat again until smooth. Add key lime juice, zest and flour, and beat until mixed thoroughly. Add eggs, one at a time, and beat gently after each. Add green food colouring to cheesecake mixture, if desired.
4. Spread cheesecake batter evenly over crust in pan. Add 1 cup of blueberry pie filling over top of cheesecake. Use butter knife to gently swirl pie filling into cheesecake. Do not let knife go through to crust.
5. Place pan on oven rack above tray of water. Bake 45-48 minutes. Remove immediately and place on wire rack for 1 hour then place in refrigerator until completely chilled.
6. Cut into 24 squares and serve with whipped topping, remaining pie filling and key lime wedges.
My friend Julie and I enjoying some delicious ice cream
Victoria Ledden
JOHN ARMSTRONG, Sales Representative john@armstrongs4u.com Cell: 705-351-2767
Collingwood Office: 330 First Street Collingwood and THE ARMSTRONG TEAM!
Brenda - Cell: 705-828-4571
Candy - Cell: 705-817-1007
Wasaga Beach Office: 1249 Mosley St. Wasaga Beach
OWNER/PUBLISHER/AD SALES
Victoria Ledden | 705-429-0761 | vledden1@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER/WRITER Don Beaulieu
DESIGN
Project 818B Marketing | kim@project818b.com
MAILING ADDRESS
2-291 Main Street, Suite 434, Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z 0E8 whatsupgb.com
John and Nickel (his unlicensed assistant)
Photo by: Victoria Ledden
Why Wildfires Matter
Wildfires have become one of Canada’s most visible and destructive consequences of climate change. As of mid-July 2026, Canada has experienced more than 3,100 wildfires, with approximately 800 active fires still burning across the country, including about 60 fires that remain out of control. More than 1.4 million hectares of forest have already burned this year, and northern Ontario is currently experiencing one of its worst wildfire seasons in recent history, with over 100 active fires affecting communities and creating hazardous smoke conditions and unhealthy air quality alerts in our Georgian Bay region, across Ontario and much of eastern North America. This smoke may even cross the Atlantic Ocean to reach western Europe as it already did the last couple of years.
Toronto Air Quality Index (AQI) and Air Quality health Index (AQHI) were the worst for a big city in the world on July 15, 2026, worse than new Delhi or Beijing!
While wildfires are a natural part of Canada’s boreal forest ecosystem, climate change is making them larger, more frequent, and much harder to control. Rising average temperatures, prolonged droughts, earlier snowmelt, and more frequent heat waves leave forests drier for longer periods. Lightning storms, another major cause of wildfires, are also expected to increase as the climate warms. Scientists agree that climate change has significantly increased the likelihood of the extreme wildfire seasons Canada has experienced in recent years. Unfortunately, the relationship between wildfires and climate change works both ways. As forests burn, they release enormous amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane, and other greenhouse gases that have been stored in trees, vegetation, and soils for decades or even
centuries. Smoke from wildfires also contains black carbon (soot), which can settle on Arctic snow and ice, causing it to absorb more sunlight and melt faster. This creates a dangerous feedback loop: climate change fuels more wildfires, and wildfires, in turn, accelerate climate change through increased greenhouse gas emissions. During Canada’s recordbreaking 2023 wildfire season alone, wildfire emissions reached levels comparable to several years of Canada’s total fossil fuel emissions.
The impacts extend far beyond the forests. Wildfire smoke has become one of Canada’s largest seasonal air pollution hazards, increasing the risk of asthma, heart disease, stroke, and other respiratory illnesses. Entire communities have been evacuated, wildlife habitat has been destroyed, and billions of dollars are spent each year on emergency response, firefighting, and rebuilding damaged infrastructure.
Although wildfires cannot be eliminated entirely, their severity can be reduced. Cutting greenhouse gas emissions remains the most important long-term solution. Governments can also invest in better forest management, including prescribed burns, fuel reduction, and improved wildfire detection and response systems. Communities can reduce their risk by creating FireSmart properties, maintaining defensible space around homes, and avoiding activities that can accidentally start fires during dry conditions.
Wildfires are no longer just a summer inconvenience—they are becoming one of the defining environmental challenges of our time. Addressing climate change today is essential to protecting Canada’s forests, wildlife, communities, and the clean air we all depend on for generations to come.
Wasagabeachclimateaction.com info@wasagabeachclimateaction.com
Submitted by Gerard Dusastre
The Curious Burden...
OF REPEATING WHAT YOU JUST SAID
Fact: The effort required to repeat a sentence is always greater than the effort required to say it in the first place.
When we say something the first time, we’re usually speaking from a fresh thought. The idea is active in our mind and the words often come out rather automatically. But when someone asks, “Sorry, what was that?”, a few things happen that cause us to lose that fluency.
We have to remember exactly what we just said.
We have to decide whether to repeat it word-for-word or rephrase it.
We become more conscious of our speech because now we’re basically performing the sentence rather than simply expressing a thought.
If the listener didn’t hear you, instinct may kick in to speak more loudly or clearly, which takes a bit more effort.
Psychologists sometimes distinguish between generating language and retrieving language. Oddly enough, retrieving something you just said can sometimes feel harder than saying it in the first place. Many people also report a strange phenomenon where the repeated sentence sounds less natural than the original. The first version was spontaneous; the second can feel like reciting a line from a script.
“Sorry that remark has expired”
There’s even a humourous social observation: if someone asks “What?” immediately after you’ve spoken, your brain may briefly go blank and you’ll think, “I have no idea what I just said.” One factor that can make this more noticeable is age. As people get older, the “buffer” that temporarily holds recently spoken words isn’t always as quick as it once was. But even young people experience this.
One may wonder if the effort is mainly remembering the exact words, physically speaking them again or the mild annoyance of having to repeat them at all? Those are really three different experiences. Different people tend to notice one more than the others. What did I just say? I don’t know—I was busy saying it.”
There is a real cognitive basis for that feeling of not being sure of exactly what you just said. When you’re speaking, your brain is focused on producing the message, not storing a verbatim recording of it. Once the thought has been successfully delivered, your mind may immediately move on to the next thing. Then, when someone asks for a repeat, you’re suddenly being asked to retrieve something that your brain has already marked as “task completed.” This, while you have moved on to the next thought.
The feeling of being hard-done-by may also have a social component. Communication is a cooperative activity. When you’ve done your part and the message wasn’t received, even through no one’s fault, it can feel as though the work has been handed back to you. Rationally, you know the listener may have been distracted by a passing truck or a barking dog, but emotionally it can still register as: “I already carried this package across the room. Why am I carrying it again?”
“I wasn’t listening to me either”
There’s also a peculiar irony that the request for repetition often arrives at exactly the moment you’ve released the sentence from memory. If the listener had asked half a second earlier, you may have been able to repeat it effortlessly.
Many people develop little coping strategies: Repeat only the key point rather than the entire sentence.
Rephrase instead of trying to reconstruct the original wording.
Use humour: “Whatever brilliant thing I just said has now vanished forever.” This also buys some time to get your thoughts together, sort of like inserting ums and ahs between words. In fact, our original spoken words may have including some of those. Verbal fillers are a natural part of many people’s manner of speaking.
Human beings are remarkable creatures. We can split the atom, transplant organs and communicate instantly across the globe. Remembering what we said, just now, mmmm, not so much.
theironskillet.ca
Grandma - A Poem
In the parlour she sat, at the window
Her knitting ignored, in her lap
Her daughter looked in, to check on her
And thought she was taking a nap
But her mind was alert, and quite busy
As she gazed out over the field
She remembered her Dad, and her husband
Deciding how to get the best yield
She remembered her Grandfather talking
About how he cleared off the trees
Turned old forest into new cropland
He was proud of his great industry
The house that she sat in was ancient
Was built by her ancestors dear
Like the family, it just kept on growing
As the children arrived, year by year
The old rocking chair that she sat in
Was built by her great-uncle Zeke
For five generations, the children
Were lulled by the rocker’s soft squeak
She’d lived her whole life in this old house
Born her children, and kept them from harm
Now her daughter was following her footsteps
While her husband was working the farm
Her son and her daughter were talking
They didn’t think that she could hear
Talking about full-time nursing home care
Not now, but maybe next year
She thought of her friends and her sisters
Of names and of faces long gone
She thought of the year that John died
Lord, how had she ever gone on?
She thought about leaving the homestead
A tear ran down her wrinkled cheek
She thought about being among strangers
Not for a day, but week after week
She thought of her strong, healthy children
She thought of the work that she’d done
With a smile on her lips, and love in her eyes
On that warm, Summer day, she went Home
Robert G. Adams - August, 1996
Cleaning and Caring for Your Hot Tub
Hot tubs are more common in back yards over the past 20 years.
You can enjoy a relaxing time with your friends and family members submerged in the hot water, right at your home or cottage. Your hot tub works hard to sooth you. It needs a regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it in good working condition and to keep the water safe and sanitary.
AFTER EACH USE:
• Test water with the test strips, adjust PH level as needed.
WEEKLY:
• Shock the water and clean the filter cartridge by spraying with a garden hose.
• Regular light cleaning is important to keep it clean.
• Wipe down the cover and tub surfaces, maintain the water chemistry (check the PH level, alkalinity and the sanitizer levels, using the test kit). Adjusting as needed.
QUARTERLY:
• Completely drain the tub. Deep clean it. A key aspect of the regular maintenance is a complete draining and cleaning out any debris and scum that accumulates during usage.
• A complete system rinse of hot tubs lines and components is highly recommended as it effectively degreases and removes harmful residue that accumulates within plumbing and components.
TOOLS TO USE:
• sponge/nylon brush
• bucket
• garden hose
• rubber gloves
• microfibre towels
FOR A DEEP THOROUGH CLEANING:
1. Treat the water
• Remove cartridge
MATERIALS TO USE:
• line flush solution
• filter cleaner
• hot tub cleaner (vinegar, baking soda)
• PH kit
• chlorine or bromine tablets
• shock treatment
• protectant UV spray (optional)
• Add hot tub cleaner to the water and circulate the water for an hour.
• Be sure the jets are turned off as the cleaner solution can foam.
• Soak the filter if it needs extra care. After using the spa filter cleaner, flush the filter with clean water.
2. Drain the water
• Shut off the water
• To remove the water faster use a submersible pump or a pool cover pump.
• There will be a little water that the pump won’t be able to suck out- you can open the drain for this.
3. Clean the tub
• If the tub is empty, clean the surfaces. Use a solution of 85% water and 15% cleaning vinegar. Spray the surface and scrub the tub down with a non-abrasive cleaning pad (or a nylon brush for scum).
• Pay close attention to areas around the jets and other ridges where mold and mildew are more likely to grow. Use an old toothbrush to clean around jets and its openings.
• For stubborn scum lines or tough grime, baking soda is the solution and a nonabrasive sponge.
• Never use household soaps, detergents or bleach as they will foam and disrupt water chemistry!
• Then wipe the tub clean with microfibre cloths/towels. Flush it with fresh water.
• Leave the drain open so the cleaning solution and the dirt will wash out of the tub.
4. Refill
• Clean the drain, install the clean filter.
• Make sure the jets are open to prevent water pressure issues.
• Fill up the hot tub with fresh water using the garden hose.
• It takes a while, so clean the cover. Scrub it well and wipe it dry.
• Use a UV protectant spray as it prevents the cover from sun damage.
• After the filling is completed, turn the power back on. Start the tub; make sure the jets are off.
• Test the water, adjust the alkalinity as needed (7.2-7.6).
• Add the proper amount of sanitizer to the water.
• Circulate the water about 30 minutes.
• Retest and adjust as needed.
• Run the hot tub overnight.
• Retest the water and adjust if necessary.
Make sure you follow the manufacturer instructions. Use the appropriate chemicals and cleaning solutions!
Edit Baker Green Cleaner Canada 519-938-1702 grcleaner@gmail.com
When Opportunity Flows By
August has a funny way of sneaking up on us. One minute we’re making grand plans for the summer, and the next we’re wondering where it went. The gardens are overflowing, the evenings arrive a little earlier, and conversations suddenly begin with, “I can’t believe it’s almost over.”
It’s funny how often we treat life the same way. We wait for the perfect time to start something, only to realize another season has quietly slipped by.
Nature doesn’t wait for perfect conditions before moving forward.
Rivers don’t wait for the perfect day to flow. Trees don’t postpone growing because next week’s forecast looks better. Wildflowers bloom when it’s their time—not because every condition is perfect, but because nature knows it’s time to begin.
We, on the other hand, are Olympic-level over thinkers.
We wait.
We wait until life slows down. Until we feel more confident. Until we have more money. More time. More certainty. We convince ourselves we’ll start “soon.”
Nature reminds us that waiting for perfect is often the very thing that keeps us from beginning.
Maybe that’s one of summer’s greatest lessons. Life doesn’t ask us to have everything figured out before we take the next step. Sometimes all that’s required is the willingness to begin.
Which brings us to this month’s insight.
Water You Waiting For?
Ever stand beside a river and think, I should jump in... only to spend the next ten minutes debating whether the water’s too cold, whether your towel is close enough, or whether you’ll regret getting your hair wet?
Opportunities are a lot like rivers.
They flow past us while we’re busy weighing the pros and cons, waiting for the perfect moment, or convincing ourselves we’ll be “ready” someday.
Nature rarely overthinks.
Rivers don’t stop flowing while they consider their options. Trees don’t postpone growing until next Tuesday. Wildflowers don’t hold committee meetings before blooming. They simply respond to what’s in front of them.
Procrastination is a lot like standing on the riverbank with one toe in the water. You keep testing the temperature instead of getting in. Meanwhile, the current keeps moving, and so do the opportunities.
That doesn’t mean you have to cannonball into every decision. Sometimes progress begins by simply putting your toes in the water.
Ask yourself: What’s one opportunity I’ve been standing on the shore with that I could step into today?
If that landed at all, here’s where it gets useful.
Observe the Current
Take a look at what’s flowing through your life right now. What opportunity keeps showing up? What idea refuses to leave you alone? More importantly, what’s actually stopping you? Fear? Timing? Or just the habit of waiting?
Get Your Feet Wet
Forget the cannonball. Take one small step instead. Make the phone call. Register for the course. Send the email. Have the conversation. Tiny actions have a funny way of turning into bigger adventures.
Go With the Flow
You don’t have to control every ripple. Rivers have been finding their way around rocks for thousands of years. Trust that you’ll adjust as you move. And if you swallow a little water along the way, call it characterbuilding.
Write It Down
Write down one thing you’ve been putting off and one action you can take today. Big dreams rarely become reality just because we think about them. They become reality when we finally take the first step.
Maybe the river has been teaching us something all along.
Every river has one thing in common.
It moves.
Around rocks.
Over fallen trees.
Through narrow places.
Across open stretches.
It doesn’t wait for perfect conditions before continuing downstream.
Maybe that’s why rivers have always drawn us in. They remind us that life isn’t meant to be lived standing safely on the shore.
Sometimes the next step isn’t a giant leap.
Sometimes it’s simply getting your feet wet.
So if there’s something you’ve been waiting to begin...
Make the call.
Start the project.
Say yes to the invitation.
Take the first step.
Because the river isn’t waiting.
And neither is life.
Nature has been showing us the way all along.
Sometimes the wisest thing we can do is Shut Up and Listen
Raven Murphy is a local speaker, author, storyteller, and educator whose connection to the natural world shapes everything she creates. From guiding immersive outdoor experiences to producing story-driven albums and podcasts, her work inspires people to step away from the noise and reconnect with what actually matters.
Her latest books, Shut Up and Listen: A No BS Guide to Unlocking Nature’s Wisdom in 31 Days, and Shut Up and Listen – Snow, Slush and Sanity: A Guide to Redefining Winter in 31 Days, are available through Amazon.ca and at www.ravenspeaks.ca, where you’ll find everything she offers—all in one place
Submitted by Raven Murphy
Summer Fire Prevention Tips
(NC) From backyard barbecues to patio candles and firepits, summer is full of reasons to gather outside. A few simple precautions can help make sure the good times keep going all season long. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Keep and maintain a fire extinguisher. Cooking is the most common cause of fires in the home, accounting for about one-third, according to Statistics Canada. A recent survey for insurance provider Belairdirect found that only about half of Canadians have a fire extinguisher near their kitchen. An extinguisher rated “ABC” can handle wood, gas and electrical fires, making it a solid all-around choice for home use. Make sure you know how to use it properly and don’t forget to set a reminder each year to check if you need to have it serviced or replaced.
Cook smart. The best way to deal with a cooking fire is to keep it from happening:
• Never leave cooking unattended, indoors or outdoors.
• For propane barbecues: make sure all the connections are secure, check for leaks and clear the air intake of any blockages like cobwebs or insect nests.
• For charcoal grills, use only charcoal starter fluid and never add it to the fire once it’s lit.
• Never grill in an enclosed space—stay in open air, at least three metres from doors and windows and one metre from furniture.
Keep your electronics fire-safe. Even small devices can pose a significant risk in the event of a short circuit or electrical failure. Here are some things to keep in mind:
• Unplug devices and small appliances when you’re not using them.
• Check for frayed wires whenever you plug something in.
• Avoid overloading power bars—spread devices across multiple rooms whenever possible.
• Store lithium-ion batteries away from heat and direct sunlight. Know your way out. It’s important to make sure everyone in your home has a plan if the fire alarm goes off. Pick a meeting spot outside and run through it together a couple of times a year—it only takes a few minutes and gives the whole household peace of mind.
Fire safety comes down to simple habits, but they can make all the difference. You can learn more about keeping yourself and your home safe at belairdirect.com.
Home & Garden
HOME MAINTENANCE - PREVENTING WATER DAMAGE
(NC) Did you know that, according to Public Safety Canada, flooding is the most common natural disaster in Canada? It’s also the most costly. There are simple steps you can take to better protect your home when water rises. Here are some tips from the prevention team at Intact Insurance:
Outside your home: It’s all about managing drainage. Any rain that falls on your home needs to be able to flow away freely. Check the grading around your home and make sure that it slopes downward away from your foundation for at least six feet. Your downspouts also need to empty out the same distance away. Otherwise, water can sit against the foundation and weaken it over time. If it’s safe, clear nearby storm drains of debris, and clean your own eavestroughs regularly.
Inside your home: Indoor flood management comes down to two main things:
• Staying aware: Install flood alarms in your basement, near plumbing pipes or near appliances, and check them regularly to ensure they are in working order. Set up a regular schedule to check your pipes and plumbing fixtures for leaks. One trick is to dry off a set of pipes and put paper towel or printer paper under them for at least 12 hours to check for drips. Make sure to store any valuables in your home, or hazards like oil containers, at least 30 centimetres above the floor.
• Checking your equipment: Consider installing a backwater valve and sump pump if you don’t already have them. Even if you don’t have a basement, floodwater can still accumulate in the crawlspace and damage your foundation. Set up a schedule to clean out your flood drain and backwater valve and test the sump pump twice a year.
By making sure they have the right equipment inside and proper drainage outside, Canadian households can be much better prepared for flooding risk. You can learn more about protecting your home from flood and water damage at keepitintact.ca.
VENTILATION MAY BE THE MOST IMPORTANT FEATURE IN YOUR HOME
(BPT) - When you’re building a new home or remodelling your existing one, there’s no shortage of choices you have to make. Most homeowners focus on visible features like kitchens, flooring and smart technology. But there’s one system that matters just as much, and it’s hidden behind your walls. That system is your home’s ventilation.
Why does ventilation matter?
Think of your home’s ventilation system as its lungs. It brings in fresh outdoor air and removes stale indoor air. Good ventilation means fresher air throughout your home, better moisture control, and fewer odours and indoor pollutants.
Every home needs proper ventilation. Whether you live in a cold northern region, a hot and humid southern state or anywhere in between, proper ventilation keeps your home comfortable, healthy and structurally sound.
Here’s where traditional ventilation systems often fall short
Modern homes are designed to be super energy-efficient, which means they’re sealed more carefully than ever before. The downside? That same seal that saves on your electric bill also traps stale air, humidity and cooking odours inside. Traditional ventilation systems work with a one-way approach. Some pull air out of your home and hope fresh air seeps in through cracks and gaps. Others push air in and hope stale air escapes the same way. Neither approach works well in today’s airtight homes.
The result? Uneven comfort, excess moisture, condensation on windows, lingering cooking odours, and a buildup of indoor pollutants from everyday activities like showering and cleaning. It gets worse. Exhaust-only systems can create negative pressure, allowing moisture and contaminants to seep into your walls. Supply-only systems trap moisture inside, increasing the risk of mold and long-term damage to your roof, walls, foundation and insulation.
Why balanced ventilation with an ERV is the solution
Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) continuously bring fresh outdoor air into the home while exhausting stale indoor air. And it does something traditional systems can’t. It transfers heat and moisture between the incoming and outgoing air streams. As energy codes continue to evolve and builders construct tighter, more efficient homes, balanced ventilation is becoming an increasingly important part of residential design. So, how can you ensure your new home provides the ventilation you need for good indoor air quality, long-term home performance and year-round comfort in any climate? The key is balanced ventilation powered by an energy recovery ventilation (ERV).
One example of a balanced ventilation solution is the Panasonic BalancedHome® Elite+ 210, an energy recovery ventilator designed for modern single-family homes. The system delivers what modern single-family homes need by:
• Helping maintain indoor comfort while reducing energy loss
• Filtering incoming air to support healthier indoor environments
• Allowing homeowners to monitor system performance
• Offering installation flexibility for different home designs
• Operating quietly in living spaces
A modern home deserves modern ventilation
As homes become more energy-efficient and airtight, ventilation is no longer optional. It is essential for your family’s comfort and long-term home performance. Homeowners who prioritize balanced ventilation can enjoy fresher indoor air, improved comfort and greater confidence that their home is performing as intended.
*BalancedHome® 210 performance may vary based on installation, operating conditions and climate.
A Fresh Salad with a Sweet Twist
(NC) Looking for a go-to dish for summer entertaining? This salad is fresh, vibrant and bursting with flavour. Juicy strawberries take centre stage, paired with crisp greens, creamy avocado and a simple tangy dressing.
STRAWBERRY SALAD WITH BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE
Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
INGREDIENTS
For the chicken:
1 lb (450 g) boneless skinless chicken breast
¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
1tsp (5 ml) paprika
2tsp (10 ml) dried oregano
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper
For the balsamic vinaigrette:
¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar
1tbsp (15 ml) Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper
For the salad:
6 cups (1,500 ml) shredded romaine lettuce
2 cups (500 ml) fresh strawberries, halved
1 cup (250 ml) cucumber, sliced
1 ½ cups (375 ml) avocado, diced
1 cup (250 ml) fresh basil leaves
1 cup (250 ml) feta cheese
DIRECTIONS
For the chicken:
1. In a large bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, paprika, oregano, lemon juice and zest, salt and pepper.
2. Set a grill pan or skillet to medium-high heat.
3. Grill the chicken until lightly charred and cooked through, turning halfway through cooking, about 10 minutes.
For the balsamic vinaigrette:
1. Combine all the ingredients in a glass container and whisk until smooth.
For the salad:
1. In a large salad bowl, combine the greens, strawberries, avocado, cucumber, chicken, basil leaves and feta cheese.
2. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad, toss well and serve.
Did you know that strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants? Just one cup of strawberries has approximately 95 per cent of the daily value of vitamin C, according to Health Canada.
Summer is Heating Up With the Blues
Stonebridge Wasaga Beach Blues returns September 18, 19 and 20, 2026 for three unforgettable days of live music by the beach. Now in its 14th year, the festival is a 3-day, outdoor music festival held at the Stonebridge Town Centre, just steps from the world’s longest freshwater beach. Bring your lawn chair, your sunscreen and a water bottle. Our free punch buggy is available for water fill-ups all weekend long.
We are thrilled to bring music lovers together once again in beautiful Wasaga Beach for a weekend filled with outstanding performances, great food, local vendors and the unmistakable energy that only a live music festival can create.
Our Artistic Director, Gabor Szepesi, has truly outdone himself this year, broadening the festival’s musical mix and delivering an exciting lineup! With our two stages, this year’s lineup off ers something for everyone, including an exciting mix of blues, rock, reggae, soul, tribute performances and more.
From the fi rst note on Friday evening to the fi nal performance on Sunday, our talented artists are ready to deliver a weekend of music that will have you singing, dancing and discovering new favourites.
We are delighted to welcome operatic tenor Kurt Lehmann, who will perform our national anthem, “O Canada,” following the festival’s offi cial opening remarks.
This year’s lineup reaches far beyond traditional blues, bringing together an exciting mix of blues, rock, reggae, funk, soul, Celtic energy, powerful tributes and timeless favourites.
Friday night launches the festival with Big Motor Gasoline, Mike McKenna’s Slidewinder Blues Band and Canadian reggae legends Messenjah, before Pearl delivers an electrifying Janis Joplin Experience and Thunderstruck closes the evening with the unmistakable power of AC/DC.
Saturday begins by celebrating emerging talent with Eyes of Violet’s Junior Jam, followed by the MacKenzie Blues Band, James Legere Band, Fog Blues + Brass Band, the Mike McCarthy Band, Likely Spam, Jimi and the funk and soul sounds of LMT Connection. Mudmen will then bring the night to a high-energy close with their signature Celtic rock performance.
Sunday keeps the music flowing with 93 North, Joe Murphy + the Water Street Blues Band, The Tonewheels and acclaimed Canadian blues guitarist David Gogo. Powerhouse vocalist Miss Emily takes the stage before the weekend concludes with The Last Waltz – A Musical Celebration of The Band.
Daily early-bird price is $20 per person, $50 for the weekend. Children 12 and under get in free. Early-bird ticket pricing is available until August 31. Starting September 1st daily ticket prices are $25 and are available online, or at
the gate, numbers permitting.
As always, parking is free at the Stonebridge Town Centre.
Explore the full lineup and purchase tickets at wasagabeachblues.com.
Purchase your tickets by July 31, 2026 for a chance to win two tickets aboard a Shaka Wasaga Boat Cruise.
Planning to stay for the weekend? Find local accommodations at wasagawelcomes.com/ stay.
We hope you have a great weekend and leave with wonderful memories, a few new favourite artists and an even greater appreciation for the power of live music.
Stonebridge Wasaga Beach Blues is a nonprofi t organization, and we depend on the community every year to deliver an amazing festival experience. Thank you to our sponsors, partners and volunteers!
Submitted by Yvette Gauthier
Mind. Body. Spirit.
Parenting Through the Echoes of Childhood Trauma
Parenting can be the most demanding job in the world, but for those carrying the weight of childhood trauma or abuse, it can feel like navigating a minefield. The daily demands of raising a child have a unique, sometimes painful way of acting as a mirror—reflecting our own unmet childhood needs and raw emotional wounds back at us. For my son, he was like a radar. He always knew when I was upset, even when I tried to hide my feelings. I wish I had access to the following information and strategies when he was young. I just felt like I couldn’t handle my own emotions when I was dealing with my son. I didn’t realize that I was being triggered from past events.
Understanding your triggers, learning to manage them, and intentionally building a secure attachment with your child can break generational cycles and foster profound healing for both of you.
Recognizing the Triggers
A “trigger” is a survival response activated by something in the present that reminds your nervous system of a past threat. In parenting, common triggers include:
Loss of Control: When a child throws a tantrum or refuses to cooperate, it can trigger a parent’s past feelings of helplessness, leading to an intense urge to control the situation through anger. You may feel inadequate as a parent.
Emotional Distress: Hearing a child cry or scream can register as a highalert alarm in a survivor’s brain, sparking immediate panic, irritability, or the urge to mentally shut down (dissociate). Of course, if we dissociate, it can cause our child to be distressed.
Rejection or Defiance: When a child pushes away or says “I hate you,” a trauma-survivor parent might internalize this as personal abandonment, echoing childhood feelings of being unloved or unwanted. This feeling can be crushing to a parent with trauma.
Physical Touch or Clinging: Sensory overload from constant clinging, pulling, or noise can trigger a physical “fight-or-flight” response, especially for those with past physical boundaries violations.
To manage these intense moments, practice the “Pause and Ground” technique. When a trigger strikes, notice the physical sensation in your body (like a racing heart). Before reacting, take three slow, deep belly breaths. Tell yourself, “I am safe right now. My child is not attacking me; they are just having a hard time.” If safe to do so, briefly step away for a minute to drink a glass of cold water or feel your feet firmly planted on the floor.
5 STRATEGIES FOR SECURE ATTACHMENT
Every child needs a secure attachment to at least one parent. Attachment relates to how safe a child feels with a parent. When we feel safe, we can explore the world around us and learn to thrive. You do not have to be a perfect, trauma-free parent to raise a securely attached child. Attachment is built in the small, consistent moments of connection and repair. Secure attachment is built on consistent, loving presence.
1. Practice Active Emotional Attunement
Notice and validate your child’s feelings, even when their behaviour is challenging. Instead of trying to stop their crying immediately, try saying: “I see you are really angry right now. It’s okay to feel angry.” This teaches them that their emotions are safe to express. This practice can really make a big difference for any child. We all need to feel safe in order to explore our feelings.
2. Prioritize “Repair” Over Perfection
This step is so impactful to a child. Every parent loses their temper. What matters most is the repair. Once you have calmed down, apologize to your child: “I am sorry I raised my voice earlier. I was feeling overwhelmed, but it wasn’t your fault. I love you.” This builds deep trust and models healthy emotional recovery.
3. Establish Predictable Routines
Trauma thrives in chaos; security thrives in predictability. Establish consistent daily routines for mornings, meals, and bedtimes. Knowing what to expect lowers stress hormones for both you and your child.
4. Cultivate Mindful Physical Connection
Offer safe, warm physical touch when you are regulated. Gentle hugs, holding hands, or simply sitting close together during a story releases oxytocin (the bonding hormone), which physically calms both of your nervous systems. Remember it’s the quality of the time together that makes the biggest impact. With our busy schedules, we all feel bad that we haven’t spent much time with our children. However, even 15-20 minutes doing an activity together helps children feel safe and calm. These connections create a strong, secure attachment that enable children to thrive.
5. Seek Professional Support
Healing from childhood trauma rarely happens in isolation. Working with a trauma-informed therapist helps you untangle your past from your present parenting, giving you the tools to remain anchored when storms arise. By choosing to face your past, you are offering your child the greatest gift a parent can give: a safe harbour, and the promise that the cycle of trauma ends with you.
Submitted by Wendy Hunter Registered Psychotherapist and Parenting Coach Whunter63@gmail.com
(NC) Wealth was once defined by the large house, the flashy sports car or the impressive bank balance. But for many people, the definition of true wealth is changing. In a fastmoving, chaotic world, many believe the truly wealthy are the ones living peacefully: those with the freedom and flexibility to slow down and protect their time, energy and happiness.
“People are redefining wealth as peace and having the luxury to slow down, be present and feel restored day in and day out,” says Adam Vaughan, spokesperson for Therme Canada. From setting boundaries to rethinking where we recharge, small shifts can make peace easier to protect:
SCRAP
THE SCHEDULE AND DISCONNECT
Perhaps due to the pace of daily life, there is a growing appreciation for the art of doing nothing. Not to be confused with boredom, this is intentional quiet time for your mind to wander, reflect and reset. It can also mean spending time with family or friends without multitasking.
MENTAL WELLNESS OVER MATERIAL POSSESSIONS
One way to make this more common is to set some boundaries with work, friends and family. Setting limits can start with a simple “no”. Consider setting phone-free times or phone-free zones at home and limiting your media consumption if the news cycle feels particularly negative. When you do spend time on social media, try curating your feeds to focus on content that feels useful, calming and joyful.
According to Deloitte’s 2025 Gen Z and millennial survey, work-life balance remains the top consideration for these generations when choosing an employer, ranking above salary, which says a lot with today’s high cost of living. These generations are also finding personal fulfillment through special moments and memories. This is a notable shift compared to the more product-focused spending of previous generations.
For many younger people, wellness is increasingly seen less as an indulgence and more as a form of everyday maintenance.
LOCAL ESCAPES
This search for more peace is also impacting how people think about restorative spaces. Instead of having to leave the city to recharge, many are looking for local places that offer a more accessible, calming environment. Places that can be visited regularly, not only on special occasions.
The idea isn’t new. In ancient Greece, communal bathing was widespread, and this form of wellness could be part of daily life. That still exists today in places like Therme Bucharest, where largescale thermal bathing is designed to be accessible and part of a wellness routine rather than a rare luxury.
SUMMER WHEELS
PAWS ON THE ROAD: TIPS FOR A DOG-FRIENDLY VACATION
(BPT) - Whether you’re seeking sandy beaches or fresh mountain air, you can make your road trip even better with a furry co-pilot.
Travelling with your pup does require some preparation. To ensure a successful and stress-free journey with your four-legged friend, check out these five helpful tips.
1. Safety first!
If you haven’t already, invest in a pet seat belt, car seat or travel crate so your dog can travel comfortably and safely. Not only will these safety products keep your pup safe, but they also prevent your pet from distracting you while driving. Find dog seat belts and more at Chewy.com. You can also use these Chewy dog seat belts, car seats and crates for everyday trips around town after your vacation.
2. Pack a travel kit
Put together a travel kit with your pet’s essentials. A travel kit should include items to help keep your furry companion comfortable, happy and safe while on vacation.
Besides water, food, treats, bowls and waste bags, make sure to include your dog’s favourite toys, bedding and grooming supplies. Don’t forget a leash and collar with ID tags just in case you get separated during your adventures.
3. Plan pet-friendly stops
As you choose your route, research pet-friendly stops, such as rest areas and parks that welcome pets. Plan to stop every 2-4 hours. However, you may have to stop more frequently if your pup has travel anxiety or becomes motion sick.
MIKE’S TIRES
4. Prioritize exercise and playtime
Stops aren’t just for meals and potty breaks. Just like you, your four-legged friend needs to stretch their legs and burn off some energy. During rest stops, take time to exercise and play with your pet.
If you stop at a park with trails, plan to go hiking. At a pet-friendly rest area, play fetch or simply run around. Whatever physical activities you decide to do, exercise and playtime during a long road trip will keep your dog engaged and entertained. You’ll get a workout, too!
5. Keep cool and hydrated
Depending on where you plan to travel, your destination may get even hotter than what your furry family member is used to back at home.
Keep your pup cool and hydrated by offering plenty of fresh water during rest stops. Consider purchasing a cooling mat or vest for your pet to help them stay comfortable. Most importantly, never leave your dog in a parked car on a hot day.
Are you ready to hit the road with your best friend? Follow these five tips, and you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable road trip with your dog.
Fresh, Picnic-Friendly Meals
(Feature Impact) When the weather breaks and it’s time to get outdoors, there’s hardly any better place to be than resting on a deck, lounging in the backyard or curled up on a picnic blanket at a local park. Enjoy that leisurely time with loved ones by sharing a spread that includes these Picnic Party Sandwiches and light, simple side like this Picnic Pasta Salad, perfect for a filling lunch that provides the energy you need for kicking around a soccer ball, playing tag or flying a kite.
Find more lunch ideas fit for enjoying the sunshine by visiting Culinary.net.
PICNIC PARTY SANDWICHES
Recipe adapted from “Crunch Time Kitchen”
Servings 4 Prep Time 20 minutes
DIRECTIONS
INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup salted butter
2 tablespoons fresh parsley minced
1 large fresh baguette
1/4 cup fig preserves
6-8 ounces cured meats such as prosciutto, salami and capocollo
6 ounces brie cheese sliced
2 cups arugula
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 pinch kosher salt
1. Mash together room temperature butter with fresh parsley. Set aside.
2. Cut fresh baguette length-wise and smear bottom half of the baguette with herbed butter. Top with fig preserves.
3. Layer on cured meats followed by slices of brie cheese. For brie, cut off any large pieces of rind.
4. In small bowl, toss arugula with lemon juice and salt. Add arugula to sandwich followed by top half of baguette.
5. Cut baguette into four even sandwiches and eat immediately or wrap each one tightly in paper or plastic wrap.
BRUSCHETTA WITH GRILLED FIGS AND PROSCIUTTO DI PARMA
Prep time: 10 minutes Rest time: 2 hours Cook time: 5 minutes
Makes: 5 servings
INGREDIENTS
10 slices crusty bread
5 firm figs
1 clove garlic
3.5 oz (100 g) Prosciutto di
Parma, thinly sliced
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper
DIRECTIONS
1. Crush the garlic and put it in a cup with oil, a pinch of salt and a pinch of pepper. Leave to rest for a couple of hours. Cut the figs in half and grill them for 2 – 3 minutes on each side.
2. Toast slices of bread for a few minutes in toaster or five minutes in oven at 350 F (175 C).
3. Brush the toasted bread with the garlic-infused oil.
4. Top each slice with half a grilled fig and 1 – 2 slices of prosciutto.
Grilling tips:
• Choose ripe but firm figs: They should feel soft with a slight give, but not mushy. Overripe figs can fall apart on the grill.
• Lightly oil or brush with honey: This helps prevent sticking and enhances caramelization for a richer flavour.
• Grill cut-side down first: Slice them in half and place cut-side down for 2 – 3 minutes to get those nice grill marks and natural sweetness.
• Don’t overcook: Figs grill quickly - too long and they lose their shape and texture.
Storage tip: Keep figs in the fridge and bring them to room temperature before grilling for the best flavour and texture.
CUCUMBER AND TOMATO SALAD
INGREDIENTS
3 medium or large cucumbers
2-3 vine tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped red onion
optional
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Dressing:
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon fresh minced dill
1 tablespoon mayo salt to taste pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS
1. Peel and slice cucumbers. Deseed, if desired. Coarsely chop into bite-size pieces. Slice and chop tomatoes. Place cucumbers and tomatoes in large bowl with chopped onions, if desired.
2. To make dressing: In separate bowl, mix apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, dill and mayo. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Pour over cucumber mixture and mix well.
3. Top with shredded Parmesan cheese and serve.
PICNIC PASTA SALAD
Recipe adapted from “Budget Bytes”
Servings 10 Prep Time 10 minutes Cook Time 8 minutes
INGREDIENTS
1 pound rotini pasta
1 English cucumber
2 bell peppers
10 ounces grape tomatoes
1/2 red onion
2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
1 bottle Italian dressing 16 ounces
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
DIRECTIONS
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain in colander and rinse with cool water; drain well.
2. Slice cucumber into half-moons, chop bell peppers, halve tomatoes, thinly slice red onion and chop parsley. Set vegetables and parsley aside.
3. Transfer drained pasta to large bowl. Add chopped vegetables, parsley and feta cheese.
4. Pour dressing over pasta salad and toss until evenly coated. Add salt and pepper then refrigerate until ready to eat.
AUGUST BACKPACKING BEACH BUDDY COMPANION DOCK GOLF GRATEFUL GRILL HUMID ICE CREAM KITE
LAUGHTER LEMONADE LIFEGUARD OUTING PATIO PICNIC POOL TOGETHER WALKING
Ready for a Wider Stage
Kate Gur heads to Humber College after earning a reputation as one of southern Georgian Bay’s gifted young performers.
Every so often, a young musician comes along who makes you wonder not whether they’ll succeed, but how far they’ll go. The southern Georgian Bay region has produced more than its share of impressive emerging talent. The rarer combination is talent, discipline, curiosity and the ability to connect with an audience. When those qualities appear together at a young age, people begin to take notice. One of those musicians is Kate Gurevich, of Wasaga Beach. Using the stage name Kate Gur, she has spent the past several years performing throughout the region and will soon begin studies in Humber College’s highly regarded music program. By the time many people read this, Gurevich will have turned 18 years old. She performs with a confidence and polish that belie her age, yet university training promises to add new depth to an already confident talent. This writer was impressed with her stage presence and potential two years ago when she was performing on stage. Her show includes cover tunes, to please a general audience, and as many originals as reasonable for the hardcore listeners. She is a prolific songwriter, to put it mildly.
Gurevich’s number one instrument is her voice. One word to describe her is dynamic. She can be soft and whispery one line and belting out the biggest emotion in the next, all with tonal accuracy, of course. Piano and guitar are her accompanying instruments, with a preference for piano which comes more naturally for her as she’s been at it longer. She had a grandmother who had perfect pitch and played piano. Her parents say she has her grandmother’s voice although she doesn’t believe she has perfect pitch. Gurevich’s musical interests have been strongly encouraged by her supportive parents, allowing her opportunities to follow her dream.
Always looking for a musical challenge, recognizing that there is much to learn, Gurevich has been delving into jazz standards. She’s trying to find her place in that realm, to “break in” so-to-speak... not so easy when she is listening to such greats as Count Basie and Bud Powell. That is an indicator of her appreciation of details and nuances in music. In the popular music realm, two of her largest influences have been Adele and Amy Winehouse. More recently she has been introduced to the music of bands outside her usual listening choices. Bands such as System of a Down, and Violent Femmes. She has come to have an appreciation for those varied, creative styles.
Gurevich was a student at Collingwood Collegiate Institute for a couple of years, involved in the music program, including performing with the high school band. It’s where she learned to play guitar. She switched to Our Lady of the Bay Catholic High School to be mentored by music teacher Romney Getty, a popular local performer who had impressed and encouraged her.
The girl dreams big and has the resources to get herself there. She’d love to be able to tour the world, singing her own songs. “Cover tunes are fun” she says, but the greatest reward comes from people connecting to her original songs. For now, we may be able to catch her close to home playing solo or perhaps with her close musical partner, singer/guitarist Owen Reid. She says “Owen interprets my songs so well... His second language is guitar”. They perform as a duo under the moniker The O.K. Project (for Owen and Kate, of course).
Beyond her abilities as a singer and instrumentalist, Gurevich has shown a gift for arranging songs; finding fresh ways to present familiar material while remaining true to its spirit. This is a strength that will serve her well as she furthers her studies this autumn at Humber College, with a focus on piano. Etobicoke and surrounding communities may be fortunate to find Kate Gur appearing in local venues as she begins carving out her place in the wider musical world. She loves the small town life, the people and places of Wasaga Beach, but local audiences may not have the chance to claim her for much longer.
See and hear more on these online platforms: https://linktr.ee/ kategurmusic
Submitted by Don Beaulieu
Kate Gur is a popular performer at local legions and has been heard frequently at venues such as Barcelos Restaurant & Grill, and The Hive Restaurant & Bar in Wasaga Beach. Here we see her at a recent gig at the Wasaga Beach Legion on a Friday evening.
Here we see Kate Gur performing on the patio at The Hive Restaurant & Pub at age 15. The Hive is just one venue to support her music and offer her a stage. She may be seen less often in these parts for a while, as she heads off to study in the music program at Humber College in Etobicoke this autumn.
This summer saw Kate Gur performing at the Stayner Legion offering a range of genres, including some of her own songs. Her audience ate it all up. “It’s not work” she says of practicing and performing. “It is all fun”. Her desire for excellence and respect for musical nuance sees that her performances, while wonderful to stunning, look effortless and natural to her audience.
Kate Gurevich has been bringing musical joy to public spaces in southern Georgian Bay for years, more than most teenagers could manage. More lately, under the name Kate Gur, she has enjoyed entertaining a variety of audiences at a variety of venues, many in her hometown of Wasaga Beach. Gur is heading to Humber College to further hone her piano skills and music theory. She has the dedication and grounding to make the best of it and make music her career.
Photograph by Owen Reid
