Editors Notes For The Holidays

From all of us at O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living, we wish you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season. I would like to take a moment to address the mistakes in our fall 2011 issue. I wish to apologize to all of our readers and sponsers for the many spelling and grammar errors that were published. As a new publication, we experienced a problem with our printer and unedited material made it into the fall 2011 issue. As a result, about one hundred thousand copies were printed before we could stop and correct the errors. We hope you will give us time to grow and please forgive us for the mistakes of the past and respect our efforts to do better in the future. We have changed who we print and proof with. We wanted to do this special holiday issue so that our readers had the best information on community events, holiday shopping and so much more. From money saving tips for decorating your home, to an original short story by Brenda Segee Brett for you to read your little ones before bed, this issue has it all. Our advertisers have selected great products for you to add to your holiday shopping list. I wish to thank the team at our magazine for a wonderful year, and I have the deepest respect for your hard work and dedication. I look forward to not only being the biggest free distributed publication, but building lasting partnerships with our advertisers and readers. Barb Horner will be leaving our publication family to pursue a new and challenging career opportunity. She will be missed by us and our advertisers. I would personally like to thank Barb for her dedication and for her friendship that will continue beyond the boundaries of the work place. I am so proud of you. We are excited to introduce Renee Ratusznyk as the new Marketing Sales Mangager in Belleville. Renee joins our team with many years of great customer service and she is ready to begin a new career with us starting with the winter issue of the magazine. Again, we at O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living wish you and your family, happy holidays for a prosperous 2012! We look forward to 2012 by providing you with the best local magazine money cant buy... Always free! Always delivered directly to your home. Its our gift to you! Danyl Brett Editor/publisher COMMENTS Call 613-480-6161 direct or email editor@ourmag.ca Check us out at www.ourmag.ca

For Everyday Living

FEATURES
03 Editors Notes 07 More than just Pop 09 Whats up with Gift Cards? 10 All Dressed for Christmas 16 Support your Markets 18 The Secret of the Peek-A-Boo Elves 23 Gifts for Guys

DEPARTMENTS
05 House and Home 12 Health and Wellness Tips 24 Holiday Travels 28 Entertainment - Movies 28 Entertainment - Books 30 Entertainment - Recipes

COMMUNITY
22 Coats for Kids 26 Festival of Trees 32 Burnside Tree Farm A Family Tradition 34 Community Calenadar - Events List

For Everyday Living

Belleville and Surrounding CommunitieS edition Holiday 2011

VICE PRESIDENT OF THE MEDIA GROUP Danyl Brett PUblISHER/EDITOR Danyl Brett SENIOR EDITOR Kaye Segee CONTRIbUTING EDITORIAl Deb Poole Brenda Segee Brett Lana Holt Dr. Brett Hons BSc., DDS Brian Gladstone Cindy Burnside Carol Feeney Minny Verburg Paul Coveney Chef Janet Craig Shelley Wildgen PHOTOGRAPHy Al Murack Jeff Wilson Sarah Grant CREATIVE DIRECTOR Annette Rolland GRAPHIC DESIGN ASSOCIATES Lorraine Paradowski Terri Horricks Kaye Segee ADVERTISING MARKET MANAGERS Barb Horner Belleville Renee Ratusznyk Belleville Dave Dinan Peterborough Leanne Luffman Sault Ste. Marie FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRES PlEASE CONTACT renee@ourmag.ca 613-480-6161 O.U.R Magazine is a division of Asimco Media Group Inc. PRESIDENT Asim Bhatti VP OF MARKETING AND OPERATIONS Doug Kormos All content is the property of O.U.R Magazine For Everyday Living and the contributing members. Any reproduction without the Editors permission is against the law. The Editor claims no responsibility for the content or opinions expressed in the advertisements or editorials.
Printed in Canada

D and cedar? with .pine

....Rolls of Sinamay?
By Deb Poole

and HOME eck the halls

HOUSE

Round n, round n, round; the bannister it goes!

s fall days draw to a close, many of us get an itching to do something fresh and exciting around the house. The pots and urns that were filled with glorious blooms now stand bare, empty; making my entrance look neglected and dreary. For years I have seen pine & cedar branches stuck into the soil with a few sticks and pinecones added. It helps, but this year Im looking for more! I want my home to be inviting and engaging, especially for the kids. My planters need to be filled with Sinamay! Birch poles! Bright red grape vine balls! Staghorn Willow, Washington greens, sugar cones and berries, berries and more berries! This is also a great opportunity to clean-up the sandbox toys, give the Tonka Trucks a fresh coat of paint (maybe changing the colour to red and adding elf names on the side!), collect piles of pine cones, moss, rocks and large branches and make a winter landscape on the front porch (one that can change by the hour as the kids re-landscape the north pole on sunny wintery days!).

How to give your winter arrangements a seasonal up-do!

1 Fill your container with a heavy soil mix. Add Sinamay fabric (found at a local garden center) around the edges. 2 Decide on your base shape. A full upright arrangement of greens or a horizontal bed of greens draping over the container edges. Use at least 2 textures of greens to create your base. 3 Pick your theme; your Pizzazz! A trio of birch logs, a nested grape vine ball, a lantern, a birdhouse tucked in a forest of berries, a vase of magnolia overflowing with fruit Your imagination is your only limitation!

4 Stand Back! Look for balance. Add an extra swirl of Sinamay, a cluster of berries, eucalyptus seed pod and/or pine cones etc. to complete your look. Carry these extra clusters onto a wreath or doorway to give the finishing touch to your entrance. 5 Water! Keep the soil moist until it freezes. Your arrangement should stay green through till March. For added longevity spray your greens with an anti-desiccant such as wilt proof.
Have a little fun! Make your entrance a place thats inviting as you welcome friends and family to your home this season. And who knows? If you create that winter landscape on the front porch, maybe the kids will play outside!

Than Just Pop!

irEd oF TravElliNg to Toronto just to hear professional Christmas music? Travel no more! Belleville is host to an internationally acclaimed choir. Surprised? So was I!
The Hastings and Prince Edward Regional Chorus (formally known as the Hastings and Prince Edward Childrens Chorus) has been regaling the town of Belleville with its wonderful music for the past 25 years. I first discovered this hidden treasure when my daughter came home from school with an invitation to join the choir after auditioning for Maestro Rudolf Heijdens. We went to a concert that spring and I was in awe; this group was professional! And I discovered that their resume is lengthy to say the least. They have sung in both small venues and large ones, including such wonderful places as the Musikverein in Vienna, the Mozarteum, Dom and St. Peter Cathedral in Salzburg, and lets not forget about Carnegie Hall in New York City. The international stage for choral music comes with steep competition, yet these choristers have always held their own (receiving one second place and two third place awards) when competing with choirs from countries such as Austria, China, Germany, Australia and the United States. Over the past few years, as I have been a parent volunteer with the choir, I have been privileged to get to know some of the students that make-up this choir. Though these choristers come from varied backgrounds I found it amazing how Maestro R. Heijdens could take a disjointed (yet individually talented) group of teenagers and add discipline, hard work, dedication and care, and develop a unified, world class, award winning choir. I have heard comments from choristers saying: This has been the best experience of my life, Thanks to this choir I was able to pursue music at University, I would not be where I am today without the choir. I have watched average teenagers develop into strong, steadfast community leaders. Jennifer Curtis has been involved with the choir for several years, first as a chorister and now as assistant conductor. The choir holds a special place in my heart and every week I leave rehearsal feeling rejuvenated. The sound that these young people produce can send shivers down your spine. We work them hard, and upon graduating choristers leave with a sense of musicality that is second to none. But its not just about the music. In a life where mediocrity is the norm, these adolescents learn that practice can bring success! It has even been said of my own daughter, Aly has blossomed into a confident young lady. I remember her when she first joined, so shy and quiet. Now she has grown up into a very mature and well-rounded young lady. She has also met friends that I hope she will keep for life, Im sure! . So Im proud and biased, but I KNOW that you will find this Hidden Treasure in Belleville to be well worth a listen. And who knows, you may become a proud supporter of these kids too! This year The Hastings and Prince Edward Regional Chorus will perform two Christmas concerts: December 11 and 13, 2011. Tickets are $15.00 ($5.00 for children 12 and under) and are available through the Quinte Arts Council, St. Thomas Anglican Church, as well as through members of the Parent Support Group. Although tickets are available at the door, experience has shown that concerts are sold out ahead of time. SEE YOU THERE! Sunday December 11, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. at St Thomas Anglican Church, Belleville, Ontario Tuesday December 13, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. at St Thomas Anglican Church, Belleville, Ontario

MORE

By Deb Poole

www.ourmag.ca O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living 7

Are they the best gift money can buy?

What do you buy when youre too busy to go out and look? You probably get a gift card.
Gift cards, which came on the scene in the late 1990s at Blockbuster, have spread into every nook of the vast retailing sector. Wal-Mart sells them for as little as $10. Fast-food joints like McDonalds and Tim Hortons are getting in on the act. So is Visa and Master Card. A survey released last October by a major international cooperation which creates gift cards for companies, estimated that in the previous 12 months, 64 percent of Canadian adults either bought or received a gift card, up from just 37 percent in 2009. After Christmas, retailers reported that sales of gift cards in the 2010 holiday season may have exceeded the National Retail Association prediction of $17.3 billion in North America; Canadians likely spend between $2 billion and $6 billion annually on gift cards. The appeal of gift cards is obvious. They save time and mental energy for purchasers, who dont have to struggle to choose the right present. A $40 gift card somehow seems more thoughtful than simply slipping two twenties into an envelope. For recipients, gift cards ward off the uncomfortable and highly inefficient process of receiving and returning unwanted gifts. Every recipient of a gift card can be honestly and genuinely graciouswho doesnt like free money, after all? If you are giving a gift card for a service such as a spa or nail salon then sign me up. Retailers love gift cards most of all. Theyre high-margin, low-maintenance sales that can be easily conducted online. They stimulate much-wanted traffic in the post-holiday season doldrums of January and February, especially at restaurants. So, whats not to like? A few things for you to think about. Buy a gift card and youre essentially lending cash to the retailer today that is paid back through merchandise tomorrow, or next week, or next month. Twenty seven percent of those in recent surveys blew the cards out within seven days, and another 31 percent did so within a month. Which means that about 42 percent of cards retained some cash value on them for at least a month. Larger retailers can borrow the cash they want from banks or the bond market on rather favorable terms. Do they really need us to extend short-term interest-free loans to them? And gift cards frequently carry a price for their recipients. Walking into a store with free money in your pocket is like walking into an all-you-can-eat buffet after fastingyoull feel psychologically impelled and entitled to consume more than usual, because the short-term cost will seem lower. When customers go into the store, they dont feel constrained to just stick to that card. So, lets review. A gift card is great. I will buy a few for friends and family that live out of town for the simplicity and ease. I also personally jump with joy when receiving a gift card to my favourite spa or boutique. But remember, every moment you dont use it; some retailer is collecting interest on the givers cash. When you go to redeem it, chances are youll end up spending some of your own coin. I suggest getting out and seeing what you can find. Pick a gift or gift card that reflects the person youre giving it to. And dont forget that most locally owned businesses generally have gift cards nowadays. Arent you glad Christmas is a giving time of year?

h s Wwaitth up ift ards? G C

By Lana Holt, Lifestyle Columnis t
www.ourmag.ca O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living 9

Theres a saying in our house. If you want to improve the look of anything, put a brooch on it! With that sentiment in mind, Ive set to my festive decorating by incorporating a little bling into our green and natural theme. Its not that Im not committed to being environmentally aware, its just that as woodsy and resourceful as backyard decorating can be, the tinsel lover in me will forever embrace the sparkle of the season. This year, while indulging in both earthy and ornamental leanings - reducing, reusing and recycling is taking on a whole new meaning. For the ecologically sound part of our decorating, our home will feature a compostable tree festooned with all things natural from our garden, backyard and kitchen. The stars of the tree will be pinecones, dried hydrangeas, as well as thinly sliced and dried lime, orange and lemon slices (200 degree oven for 2 hours). Foraging through the flower garden always brings forth plenty of dried posies that missed my manic deadheading hands, and as I move along to the marshy edges of our yard, bullrushes, milkweed and pussywillows will certainly be found. Since these natural elements are bound to enhance a sparsely needled host, the Christmas tree wont be chosen for its girth. Any bare spots will be filled by raffia tied cinnamon stick bundles, along with mini wreaths made from live red dogwood branches - double stranded and twisted in less than 30 seconds apiece. If time and patience allow, a similarly adorned outdoor evergreen tree will remain planted, while boasting birdseed balls bound in peanut butter. Pass along just three of these nuts and berries ideas and youll choke even the truest of whichway-to-Woodstock Christmas tree-huggers. Onto the gleam, the sheen and extreme project this year, arriving in the form of brooches and baubles. Everyone has an island of misfit jewellery, but if youve exiled yours years ago, ask around because these hidden gems are not hard to get your hands on. Youll discover the most amazing treasures in retired jewellery boxes and the bottom of sock drawers as well as finding them readily available in the drawers of friends and family. Once youve assembled your finest and shiniest earrings, brooches, and hairpins, all thats needed is a store bought foam wreath and a wide velvet ribbon to wrap around it. Then its shimmer time! Stick em, clip em and pin em upon every available surface of the wreath form and youre finished! Not only will you have created a personalized indoor wreath, youll be blessed with some homespun memories along the way. What could be cosier than enjoying Aunt Hatties mother of pearl snowman brooch a lifetime after youve enjoyed Aunt Hattie? Both of these crafty activities are great for late fall/early winter but the jewellery hanging exercise can take on year round proportions. It just depends on the size of your wreath. Festive decorating on a budget meets nature and nostalgia. Now, put a brooch on it!

All Dressed for

By Shelley Wildgen

hristmas!

10 O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living www.ourmag.ca

HEALTH & WELLNESS

tips

Toddler Teeth
By Brett Cerqua
Hons BSc., DDS

The old adage that children

should have their first visit with a dental professional by age three has fallen out of favour by many currently practicing pediatric dentists. Dental school curriculums are now more patient centered with a stronger focus on prevention and patient education, versus the traditional drill and fill approach. From my experience, pediatric dentistry begins the moment the child is born and caregivers need to be made aware of the options available to them in order to keep their childs teeth strong and cavity free. Many dental professionals now recommend that a childs first dental visit should be shortly after the eruption of the first teeth at approximately one year of age. Many of us may not agree with this and it really is the parents choice, but I would suggest that its probably more important that the parent be educated about a proper diet and preventive program for their young child rather than have an extensive exam at this age as in most cases, this just isnt possible. This first visit will help to develop an effective dental care regimen early on and will allow the creation of a chart and medical record for the child in the event of an emergency. The first visit gives the dentist the opportunity to voice concerns, if any, with respect to home care and oral hygiene instruction for the caregivers and also allows us to asses the adequacy of the childs diet. A quick cursory examination will allow the dentist to identify any obvious problems and should help to alleviate concerns that many parents have with respect to their childs oral health. When we assess children, we gather information on a number of levels to give us a picture of the childs overall health status. We are taught to inspect the eyes, the nose (to check for asymmetries), the ears (to assess any malformations), the hair, and lastly the oral cavity. We are to assess the patients mental development, their body proportions, and their level of home care. If we feel x-rays might be necessary for an accurate diagnosis, then we may suggest them early on. I like to ask parents about the childs diet, how often they have juice, milk or soda pop in an average day or week. I will also inquire about the

childs tooth brushing habits. I have in the past referred some young children to their family doctor to investigate signs that may suggest diabetes or mouth breathing habits that may suggest blockages in their nasal passages. Some children require having their adenoids or tonsils out early on to allow normal breathing. Normal breathing patterns will facilitate normal facial development and tooth relationships. Many orthodontic (crowding) problems begin early on in life because of such issues. In recent years, I have seen a number of early childhood caries cases (aka. baby bottle cavities) and thus I feel it is very important that parents become educated early on to help prevent tooth decay as soon as possible. Studies have shown that ECC is usually caused by two or more factors. These include: on demand bottle or sippy cup drinking with sugary liquids (this includes milk, mom and dad), on demand breast feeding, allowing children to take bottles with sugary drinks to bed or crib, susceptibility to dental decay, and inadequate oral hygiene by child and/or parent. Recent trends actually show that dental decay in children is on the rise and not in decline as one might assume with the introduction of fluoridated drinking water in many major metropolitan centers. There are a number of reasons for this. Parenting styles have become much more permissive, lifestyles can be incredibly hectic, resulting in more snacking and eating on the run. Marketing and propagation of sugary drinks such as Gatorade and Tang, and an increase in soda pop consumption by kids also play a role. Finally, both parents working has led to an increase in non-parental caregivers. What are some tips for parents with infants? The gum pads of infants can be gently wiped after feeding with a wet cloth. Toothbrushing should begin as soon as the teeth are present. Non-fluoridated toothpastes should be used until age 3. Children using fluoridated toothpastes need to be taught to spit out the excess to avoid swallowing toothpastes, as high levels of ingested fluoride can also harm the developing teeth. Selecting mildly

EDITORS COMMENTS: I wish to address the editorial published in the fall 2011 issue Want the Perfect Smile?. Many dentists wrote in to us and expressed concerns on the subject matter. We wish to point out that the article was written by a fashion and beauty consultant, not a dentist or medical professional. We stand by the editorial. I suggest you talk to your dentist to get the real facts on getting your perfect smile! Read it online at www.ourmag.ca

flavoured toothpastes are often preferred by children and should aid compliance. Some other tools that we as health care professionals can offer young children include early oral hygiene instruction to the patient and caregivers, brushing at least twice per day with a fluoridated toothpaste when ready, flossing at least once per day, substituting water for sugary drinks as much as possible, sealants or preventive resins can be placed on teeth that may be susceptible to decay, regular or more frequent check ups with the dentist, and more frequent x-rays, if warranted. For children living in non fluoridated communities, parents may want to consider supplementation with fluoride rinses that are available at your local pharmacy but please check with a dental professional first! In conclusion, a healthy pediatric dental regimen begins with educating the caregivers. Good habits are formed when children are very young so oral health care should be made fun and entertaining. Children should be seen by a dentist as soon as is practical but the dental profession feels parents should be taking steps as early as one year of age. If you feel something might be wrong with your childs dental development, do not hesitate to book an appointment.

upport your Markets

Eating local
has been the buzz word and the term the 100 mile menu has been played to death over the past few years. In the tough economic times we are having now it makes even more sense. I think in the Quinte and Hastings areas, we are truly blessed by following the 10 mile menu. If your family wants to eat local (even once a week), we have access to great local producers such as dairies with artisanal cheeses, farms with organic beef, chickens and eggs in addition to the wonderful vegetables and products in all in our local markets. Locally grown fruits and vegetables have longer to ripen and because the produce will be handled less, locally grown fruit does not have to stand up to the rigors of shipping. This means that you are going to be getting peaches so hard one day then the next day so ripe that they fall apart as you eat them, berries that would have been smashed to bits if they were sold using traditional methods, and melons that were allowed to ripen until the last possible minute on the vine. Lets face it, local food just plain tastes better so whenever I eat a tomato that was picked within 24 hours-I love the aroma-it still smells like the sun! Well enough said, I am the type of person who will look, feel and smell the bood before I buy it. What many of us might not realize is how many talented people participate in the market. In our local markets are many artisans of jewellery, leather products and soaps, creams; the list is endless. I bought a beautiful wooden carving board that I custom ordered at a very reasonable cost from a young man 16 O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living www.ourmag.ca that makes cupboards, and other unique wooden items. As well, you can buy honey and various herbal products using our local lavender and rosemary. There are knitted hats, mitts as well as other hand woven items using wool or that alpaca that is so soft. I have purchased emu cream for arthritis and it does work. Bringing your family to the market is a great experience and will expose your children to true craftspeople that are justifiably proud of their work. I find everyone so friendly and willing to take time to explain their craft. I always take any company I have staying with me to the market so I cheat in feeding and entertaining them. I love the cabbage rolls, the dim sum and I always buy the fresh roasted coffee beans. I think it is a great place to do your gift shopping especially for Christmas. So much more thoughtful than buying a gift certificate for a mall. Buying locally grown products is fodder for a wonderful story. Whether its the farmer who brings the apples to market or knowing part of the story about how your item was made, it is such a powerful part of enjoying our community. That is why I love to go to our local markets in Belleville, Trenton and Picton but also the various orchards like Campbells, Grills Orchards, and the Moira Market. On the outskirts as well, smaller communities like Foxborough, Stirling, and Napanee also have very active markets too. Take the time with your family to check them out. This is not new its how your grandparents lived off the land, supporting their neighbours and their community. Chef Janet Craig, Culinary instructor/writer www.satisfiedsoul.com

By Chef Janet Craig Culinary Writer

Community Market Place 3

Of The PEEK-A-BOO

The Secret
Elves
By Brenda Segee Brett

Theyre coming, muttered Gabrielle to herself I can feel it in the air. Who? piped Keegan, who was seldom far from his big sisters heels. Theyll come with the first Santa snow. Who? Who? squealed Keegan Theyll stick around and bug me til Christmas Eve. Who? Who? Who? shrieked Keegan, now hopping up and down with curiosity. And whats Santasnow? NO, No - two words: Santa snow. And its those great big flakes that look like marshmallows and fall real slow. You know - the ones that take longest to melt on your tongue. Well, Santas Peek-a-Boo Elves ride in on those very first flakes and nothings the same til they leave again. This was Keegans first introduction to Elves; and his eyes were as big as those marshmallows Gabrielle had mentioned. Whats a Peeky-Boo Else, and what do they do? begged Keegan, all agog. QUESTIONS, questions, questions! frowned Gabrielle. Im not sure where they come from exactly, but there they are every year, since I can remember. (A long time, since she was approaching age seven) This, however, was Keegans first encounter, and he wanted to know more. What do they look like, Gabe? Well, theyre not very big. Only as high as my baby finger. They have pointy little hats and pointy little shoes, and theyre mostly red and green! Personally, I think theyre little tattle-tales; cause they run back and tell Santa if weve been naughty or nice. Nooooo whispered Keegan sidling closer and looking over his shoulder. Oh, I get it. Youre just trying to scare me. scoffed Kee. Im gonna tell Mumma! Go ahead said Gabrielle, She knows all about the Elves and...... But Keegan had taken off like a shot, yelling Mumma! Mumma! Gabes trying to scare me!

18 O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living www.ourmag.ca

Mom looked up from her laptop just in time to catch Gabrielle and nab Keegan by the belt as he headed for the front door. Hey, hey guys. Whats this all about? Settle down and spit it out. Gabrielle, she scowled, weve had the discussion about tormenting your brother. Let go, Mumma! I didnt, I didnt! All I did was tell him about the Peek-a-Boo Elves, and he freaked! Keegan, who was trying to tunnel to the back of the couch by way of his moms body, noticed that the room had gone quiet. He was peering suspiciously back and forth between his mother and sister. Tell her to stop, Mumma! I dont like Peeky-Boo Else. Mom smothered a giggle, shooshed Gabrielle with a warning finger and looked solemnly at her youngest child Well Kee, youre three years old now, and I guess its time you knew about the little Elves who visit from the North Pole. Keegans eyes grew very wide and his mouth fell open. He sensed that this was important stuff, and he didnt want to miss a single word. I dont know the whole story, began Mom and theres a secret attached, but it would seem that their job is to keep Santa informed whether we are naughty or nice. They arrive on those first fluffy snowflakes. They peek around corners, and out from under things; keeping track in their heads of everything we do until Santas workshop closes down on Christmas Eve. Keegan had a million questions; Can they see us if were asleep? Yep. answered Mom. When we eat? Mmmhmm. If we tickle a goldfish? Oh yes! Ohmygosh!! Can they see us when we poo?

Moms face reddened and she sputtered, Well...I guess so. as Gabrielle doubled over with laughter; though when she thought about it later, she wasnt sure about that last question. Ill tell you what, suggested Mom, Nana knows a lot more about this than we do, why dont we ask her the next time we go over? Wouldnt you know it, on Monday morning it started to snow and by the time stars twinkled in the sky, the lawn was a glittering blanket and according to Mom and Dad, the pesky little Elves were everywhere. When Keegan reached for that cookie just before dinner, Dad said, Ooooops..........did you see a little red hat disappearing around the corner? or Mom batted her eyes and looked in the drawer where Gabrielle had failed to store her crayons. Both kids really, really hoped that the Elves were catching the good stuff, too! Sunday finally arrived and it was off to Nanas. Gabe and Kee fidgeted and fussed all the way over and were out of the car, up the drive and bursting through the front door almost before the car wheels stopped spinning. Goodness, you two - settle down! laughed Nana, as she wrestled them out of their coats, gave them huge hugs and settled herself in her big overstuffed rocker. Why so excited? They spoke so fast and asked so many questions, that it took a while for her to figure out what they wanted. Finally, with Keegan smooched under one arm and Gabrielle in the curve of the other, she began the story of the Peek-a-Boo Elves. Now my darlings, you must understand that no one knows the whole history of the little red and green creatures but I will tell you all I know as it was told to me when I was little. Apparently, long, long ago things were becoming way too busy at the North Pole and Mrs. Clause was beginning to worry that Santa was overworked. You see, the time it took for the regular toy-maker Elves to find out who was naughty or nice was cutting short the time they could spend to actually make the toys. Santa had to spend more and more time at his workbench. She was afraid that one of these Christmas Eves he would fall asleep in the sleigh and miss his next drop-off and then where would the children be? Why Judy could get the train that was meant for Bobby and Joey could get Samanthas art set and, well, you get the picture. Then, when she was just about at her wits end, she had the coolest idea; what if the Elves that were too young to be toy makers could be trained to travel the world visiting the homes of children everywhere and keeping the naughty and nice list up to date? Santa thought this was a wonderful way to keep the young Elves busy (we all know that idle hands sometimes find mischief to do) and it would keep them from scampering all over the workshop floor while at the same time encouraging children everywhere to be well-behaved.

Now, said Nana, you know the story of the Peek-a-Boo Elves. Why Gabrielle, she asked, what put that strange look on your face? I think, blurted Gabe excitedly, that I just figured out the secret! All this time I thought the Peek-a-Boo Elves were little tattle-tales who are here to squeal on me, when actually, if Im not naughty cuz I know theyre here, everyone will be happy! Yah! piped up Keegan and no more acussions bout torrenting little brothers! Right, little guy, grinned Gabrielle with an affectionate nudge... and Nana hugged them both!

20 O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living www.ourmag.ca

Coats for Kids

As the cold north-easter swept across the Bay of Quinte and into the City of Trenton, scores of children hurriedly scampered to school desperately attempting to ward off the effects of the biting winds. It was November 1989 and as Captain Barry Bristow, Fire Fighters Lew Istead and Paul Coveney watched from the front doors of fire station, they noted many of the children were not properly dressed for the inclement weather. Discussing what could be done about helping the children, Paul Coveney recalled a television news feature about a program in the Toronto area that distributed used clothing to children in need. After weighing various options, they formulated a plan and approached the General Membership to gain support for a similar program. The membership wholeheartedly agreed and thus was born our Coats for Kids Program. The following October, advertising in the local newspaper and radio garnered hundreds of used coats dropped off at the fire station. The community response was overwhelming; people liked the idea of giving their used coats to those in need. In the second year of the program, Seniors Club 105 approached the Local offering to knit mitts, toques and scarves. In the third year of the program, the Kente Kiwanis Club began donating hundreds of nearly new coats purchased at thrift shops around the province. In 2003, after moving distribution locales several times, local businessman Karl Gimpel donated a downtown facility allowing the Association a year-round storage and distribution center. This year, the 20th year of the program, the program distributed over 1,000 coats, mitts, toques and scarves. The program has evolved into a real community effort receiving contributions from service clubs, local businesses, church groups, trade unions and individuals. All donated cash goes directly to the purchase of new winter clothing apparel at discount prices or wool products for the Seniors Club knitting-group. But, the greatest sense of satisfaction for our members is watching the children leave the distribution center wearing a new coat, mitts, toque and a big smile on their face.

A Short History
By Bill Barber

Quinte West Professional Fire Fighters Association IAFF Local 1328 paul.coveney@sympatico.ca
22 O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living www.ourmag.ca

GIFTS FOR GUYS By Brian

Gladstone

Buying gifts for guys doesnt have to be hard. All it takes is a few good stereotypes to take the mystique out of finding him what he wants. Weve combed the web to bring you this sooooo today list of suggestions for the guys or men on your gift buying list. No matter what the occasionbest of luck this Christmas!

GIFT IDEAS FOR DIGITAL GUYS

Cameras Clocks Computers Phones Tech Toys Face it: hes a geek. Gadget geek. Computer geek. Camera geek. Whatever. At least hes easy to buy for, especially with these great digital gift ideas to choose from.

GIFT IDEAS FOR FASHION GUYS

Accoutrements Attire Briefcases & Bags Hair & Skin Shoes Sunglasses Watches First hes crowding you out of closet space. Now you catch him watching Queer Eye. Satisfy his fashion urge with these musthaves from all corners of the fashion web.

GIFT IDEAS FOR MEDIA GUYS

Art Movies Music TV Film. Music. Books. They consume him. He dreams of directing / playing / writing. The next best thing to being his muse is keeping him well stocked with these media gifts.

GIFT IDEAS FOR ADVENTURE GUYS

Aquatic Sports Climbing Martial Arts Motor Sports Skater Boy Snowboarding Travel Triathlete If he is a cross between James Bond, Indiana Jones and a smidge Jonny Knoxville, these gift ideas will get his adrenaline pumping.

a Entertainment

Holiday Travels
By Minny Verburg
Christmas is just around the corner and you have decisions to make how are you going to spend Christmas and where? It is a great time to get the family together and go to an all-inclusive resort, or take a Caribbean cruise, or go to Disney World. Just imagine Christmas carols being sung, beautifully decorated Christmas trees and you are wearing shorts! How cool is that? Someone in the family may just have to have enough courage to break from tradition and suggest a radical change. That way no one needs to plan menus, rearrange the house for guests, spend the day in the kitchen, clean up the aftermath everyone gets a break! Contact your local travel agent today and book your holiday, if not this year, then next. And to help make your trip even more stress and worry free, here are some tips for you. Before you leave home, make sure you have insurance coverage (an emergency without insurance can ruin a holiday in more ways than one), make sure to let your credit card company know that you will be out of the country, take small bills for tipping, leave copies of your passports with someone you trust so you can contact them in case your passport is lost or stolen, pack Tylenol and Imodium or similar (if you dont need it, great, if you do, you will be so glad you packed it), learn a few simple phrases in the language of the country you are visiting e.g. please, thank you, where is, have someone check your home regularly (required by insurance) while away, and take a huge sense of adventure with you. Travel is an adventure! Happy Holidays to everyone, no matter where you are! And when you get tired of the cold and snow and need to thaw out, call your professional travel consultant and book your getaway south.

CORRECTION: ATTENTION READERS. O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living wishes to apologise to Minny Verburg and Marlin Travel for the editorial published in our fall 2011 issue. The published article Its Time for a Holiday was not written by Minny Verburg. Please enjoy the original writings of Minny Verburg in the above editorial.

By Carol Feeney

Festival of Trees

The Quinte Arts Councils

The 17th annual Festival of Trees, November 17 to December 1 has something for everyone to enjoy. The Memorial Arena, Market Square, Belleville is being beautifully transformed into the Nutcracker Suite to capture the magic of the holiday season. The Festival kicks off on Thursday, November 17 with The Sugarplum Cocktail Party from 7 to 10 pm. Tickets are $25 each and there will be live entertainment by Lenni Stewart & the Manhattan Rouge Trio and scrumptious food by Dinkels Restaurant & Courtyard, Paulos Trattoria, Earl & Angelos Steak and Seafood, Capers Brasserie and Wine Bar, Sans Souci Special Event Catering, The Boathouse Seafood Restaurant and the Bull & Boar. There is a cash bar and silent auctions as well as the unveiling of more than 50 decorated trees and 28 wreaths to get everyone in the holiday spirit. As local students will be providing painted sugar plum fairies to be placed throughout the Arena, they will have a special preview with school tours taking place Friday, November 18 from 9 am to noon. The day continues with a new event for seniors, The Grandparents Dance, from 1 to 3 pm. Admission is free and there will be refreshments and The Bay City Quartet who will be playing music that is sure to get people off their chairs and onto the dance floor. The general public is invited to enjoy The Nutcracker Suite at Night from 5 to 9 pm to view the spectacular trees and dcor in the evening. Admission is free. Also new this year is the Artisans Village featuring the show and sale of more than 40 local artists in addition to live entertainment on Saturday, November 19 from 10 am to 4 pm. Featured entertainers are the Quinte Living Centre Concert Band, Quinte Ballet School Dancers, Command Performance Choir and The Trentones. Admission is free. Gentlemen can take advantage of the Kings Night Out on Saturday, November 19, where you can sample brews from local craft breweries, enjoy vodka tasting from 66 Gilead Distillery, live blues music by the Loyal Blues Band, smoky southern BBQ food and other delights from the Bull & Boar and the Boathouse Seafood Restaurant, air hockey, foosball, pool and a secret auction. On stage will be models from La Maison DEva to help guests select some great gifts for their partners for Christmas as well as belly dancers from Hypnotic Rhythm. Tickets are $20 each. The Artisans Village will continue all day Sunday, November 20 and there will also be additional activities for children and families. Back by popular demand is The Mouse Kings Pancake Breakfast from 9 am to noon. Balloon artist, Christopher the Twistopher, Andy Forgie and the Jan Bo Puppets will entertain children and there will be arts and crafts provided by Family Space. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Children under age 5 are free.

26 O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living www.ourmag.ca

The Toymakers Castle with arts, crafts and entertainment for children provides interactive activities from 10 am to 3 pm and music in the afternoon by Andrew Queen and the Croccodaddies. Get ready for a visit from the most famous toymaker of all on Sunday afternoon prior to the Santa Claus parade when Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive. Admission is free from 1 to 3 pm The draw for the raffles of the Festival trees and wreaths takes place at 4 pm. There will be two more exceptional events taking place for the first time in downtown Belleville. The Nutcracker Suite Gala, November 26 from 5:30 pm to 1 am provides a fabulous dinner catered by Earl & Angelos Steak & Seafood, Dinkels Restaurant & Courtyard, Sans Souci Special Occasion Catering and Capers Brasserie & Wine Bar. While enjoying the succulent fare you will hear music performed by young classical musicians, Lucas Grant, Nicholas Grant and Phillip Savic. The evening continues with a live auction by Manson and Lori Slik, and dancing to the hottest new dance band in town, The Bay City Band. Tickets are $125 each. The finale of the Festival takes place Thursday, December 1 from 5 to 8 pm with The Nutcracker March Holiday Home Tour- The event will showcase the fine living spaces in the lofts and dondos located in the heart of the City as well as Meyers Pier. Tickets are $25 each. Be sure to visit www.bellevillefestivaloftrees.ca for updates and information. Tickets can be purchased by calling 613-9621232 or by visiting the Quinte Arts Council Gallery and Gift Shop at 36 Bridge Street East, Belleville. Book your tickets now to avoid disappointment.

Entertainment

Holiday
BLOCK BUSTERS
November
November 11 Immortals - Henry Cavill, Reymundo Banderas, Mickey Rourke, Freida Pinto Jack and Jill - Adam Sandler, Katie Holmes, Al Pacino, Regis Philbin London Boulevard - Keira Knightley, Colin Farrell, Stephen Graham, Ray Winstone November 18 Happy Feet Two - Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Sofia Vergara, Hank Azaria The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 - Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart, Taylor Lautner, Kellan Lutz November 23 Arthur Christmas - James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, Jim Broadbent, Bill Nighy The Muppets - Jason Segel, Amy Adams, Chris Cooper, Rashida Jones

Top Five

Books
1. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens (Bantam Classic) The classic by Charles Dickens. Tiny Tim, Ebenezer Scrooge and all the Spirits. 2. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg The illustrations are superb in this book about meeting Santa Claus. 3. The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore Clement Moores enduring poem about a visit from Saint Nicholas. 4. How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss The Dr. Seuss classic. 5. Christmas in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder (Little House) A Little House on the Prairie Christmas.

December
December 9 New Years Eve - Lea Michele, Abigail Breslin, Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer The Sitter - Jonah Hill, Landry Bender, J.B. Smoove, Max Records Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy - Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Ralph Fiennes, Tom Hardy W.E. - Abbie Cornish, Andrea Riseborough, Oscar Isaac, James Fox December 16 Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked - Justin Long, Jesse McCartney, Matthew Gray Gubler, Anna Faris Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows - Robert Downey, Jude Law, Noomi Rapace, Stephen Fry

December 21 Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol - Tom Cruise, Simon Pegg, Jeremy Renner, Paula Patton December 23 The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn - Andy Serkis, Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jamie Bell We Bought a Zoo - Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson, Patrick Fugit, Thomas Haden Church December 25 Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close - Sandra Bullock, Tom Hanks, Thomas Horn, John Goodman December 28 War Horse - Tom Hiddleston, Jeremy Irvine, Emily Watson, David Thewlis
All dates are subject to change. Please check you local listing.

28 O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living www.ourmag.ca

a Entertainment
Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
5 to 5-1/2 cups (1.25 to 1.375 l) all-purpose flour 2 tsp (10 ml) baking powder 1-1/2 tsp (7 ml) salt 1-1/4 cups (325 ml ) unsalted butter, at room temperature 2-1/2 cups (625 ml) granulated sugar 4 eggs 4 tsp (20 ml) vanilla

OLIDAY
ONE. In a large bowl, using a fork, stir 5 cups (1.25 l) flour with baking powder and salt. In another large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat butter with sugar on medium-high until well mixed, at least 5 minutes. Beat in eggs, one at a time, scraping down side of bowl as necessary. Then beat in vanilla just until well mixed. Using a spoon, gradually stir in flour mixture just until mixed. Over mixing will toughen cookies. Then, if dough is too sticky to form into a ball, stir in remaining 1/2 cup (125 ml) flour, 2 tbsp (30 ml) at a time, until dough is soft but not sticky. You may not need all of flour. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Form each into a ball, then flatten each slightly into a disc. Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour or up to 3 days. Or freeze up to 1 month.
(190C). Lightly spray or oil 2 baking sheets or line with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough no thicker than 1/4 inch (0.5 cm). Cut out shapes. (See below for decorating variations.) Place on baking sheets about 2 inches (5 cm) apart. Bake in centre of preheated 375F (190C) oven, rotating sheets halfway through, until cookie edges are lightly golden, 8 to 10 minutes depending on thickness. Remove from oven. Let cool on wire racks. Store in an airtight container in a cool place or in the refrigerator up to 2 weeks.

TWO. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 375F

lEMoN driZZlE
On the day of serving, stir 1 cup (250 ml) icing sugar with 3 tbsp (45 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mixture should be thick enough to coat a spoon yet thin enough to drizzle. Thin with a few more drops lemon juice, if needed. Place baked cookies on a rack over waxed paper. Dip tines of a fork in lemon drizzle. Move fork back and forth over cookies to create a zigzag pattern.

ColourFul Sugar
Place dough cut-outs on baking sheets. Brush with water. Sprinkle with coloured sugar or decorate with silver balls. Bake.

Hard Rocker

IDER

Ingredients you need

1 cup Cabo Wabo Reposado Tequila 4 cups Apple Cider 1 cup Cranberry juice cup Orange Liqueur 1 teaspoon Nutmeg 6 Cinnamon sticks

How To MakE a Hard roCkEr CidEr

In a pot or crock-pot, heat and stir cider, cranberry juice cocktail and nutmeg on low just until hot for 2 hours. Do not boil. When ready to serve, turn on high for 10 minutes and stir in tequila and liqueur. Garnish with a cinnamon stick. Servings: six

Burnside Tree Farm

Christmas trees have been a Burnside Family Tradition since 1950. The original farm which we still operate is in Madoc, and we have a choose and cut location four km east of Napanee on #2 Highway. Real Christmas trees have made a comeback in recent years. Not only are they are good choice for the environment, they also provide habitat for birds and wildlife, protect soil from erosion and provide oxygen. They are a renewable crop, a tree is planted for each one cut. While all of our trees are trimmed each year and there are a variety to choose from, there are a few things to look for in a tree. A straight trunk is always a good start and a fresh cut just before the tree goes in water is essential. A well watered tree will retain its needles and last a long time. Scotch pine last the longest and along with spruce hold heavy decorations best. Balsum Fir also retain their needles well and have lovely soft needles making them easy on the hands to decorate. Often trees are chosen for scent, looks or where they will be located. We also have fresh wreaths, containers filled with greens and sell bundles of greens for those who love to decorate. For many it is the beginning of the Christmas Season that often starts in early November. Families bundle up and venture out during the month of December, to either cut their own fresh tree or choose one from our lot. Each year we are lucky enough to see many returning families continuing their family tradition, and newcomers starting anew. Cindy Burnside 613-354-2442 Email: trees.r.us@hotmail.com

A Family Tradition

32 O.U.R Magazine for Everyday Living www.ourmag.ca

L Community Events
November 5 The 20th Annual Christmas at Presquile Quality Arts and Craft Show is Sat Nov 5th, Sun Nov 6th, Wed Nov 9th, Sat Nov 12th and Sun Nov 13th from 10 am to 4 pm each day at Presquile Provincial Park, Brighton. For more info visit www.friendsofpresquile.ca Proudly sponsored by 955 Hitsfm & Cool 100. November 10 Remembrance Candle Light Ceremony beginning at 7pm at the Trenton Cenotaph, 19 Quinte Street, Trenton ON. Sponsored by The Royal Canadian Legion Trenton Branch 110. Contact Ena Newman at 613-394-1635 or email - theonetenb@hotmail.com November 11 Remembrance Day - remember and honour the members of the armed forces who have died on duty since World War I. Lest we forget. November 14 Skate with Santa in the Memorial Arena in Belleville. November 15- December 10 Belleville Art Association Annual Gallery and Studio artists choice is the theme. November 17 to November 20 The Quinte Arts Council presents Festival Of Trees in the Belleville Market Square. Nov 17 is the Opening Cocktail Party. Nov 18 has activities for seniors and students. Nov 19 has the Artist Market, tress, and entertainment. Nov 20 is a pancake breakfast, arts and crafts, as well as a visit from Santa and the Santa Claus Parade. Nov 26 is the Grand Gala. Dec 1 dont miss the Holiday Home Tour. Tickets are at the Quinte Arts Council, 36 Bridge St. East, Belleville. 613-962-1232. Visit www.bellevillefestivaloftrees.ca November 19 Join Toronto Designer, Scott Hoffman (HGTV) for an afternoon of Outdoor Arrangement Design Techniques using Sinamay, berries, greens etc. Open house format, No Cost! 11:00am 3:00pm. Sessions every hour. Call Connon Nurseries 613-392-0402.

November 22 FREE Volunteer Criminal Records Check from 12pm to 5pm through the Belleville Police Service located at 93 Dundas Street East Belleville, Ontario. Belleville Police Service offers volunteers with non-profit organizations a free CRC. This service will be offered bi-weekly. Contact Administration/ nonemergency at 613-966-0882. November 26 Frankford Santa Claus Parade at the Frankford Tourist Park, Frankford, ON. This event begins at 1pm until 7pm. The Christmas Fantasy for the Frankford Tourist Park will start this night as well. 613-392-2841 ext. 4487

November 26 5th Annual Family Day, from 9:00am 5:00pm. Join us for Christmas Goodies, Live Music, Family Scavenger Hunt, Childrens Activities, Prizes, and Specials for the Day, Family Portraits, and of course, roasting marshmallows over the campfire (while drinking Hot Chocolate) Lots of fun for everyone! December 1 Empire Theatre presents Trailer Park Boys at 8pm tickets cost $52.25 plus HST plus s/c. December 1-17 Pinnacle Playhouse presents Little Women in Belleville.

Holiday Cross Word Puzzle

DOWN
1. Charge per unit 2. The night before 3. Sylvester or Garfield 4. What we breathe 5. Jupiter and Neptune for example 6. Chocolate cookie 7. Gestures of acceptance 8. Certain 9. Bigheadedness 10. Stress 11. Father Christmas 12. Archetype 13. French for Our 18. Sharpen 22. Motel 23. Gunk 24. Mischievous 25. Glove 26. Italian car company 27. Matured 28. Blackbeetle 29. Critical 30. Part of a joint 33. Dismay 34. Adhesive 35. Tall woody plant 37. Disallow 38. Pouch 40. Decrepit 41. Bloodline 42. Afflict 43. Fruity pastry 44. A type of small lizard 45. Sensational 46. Sparrows or wrens 49. Telegram 50. Possessed 51. Concludes 52. Nothing but 55. Fish eggs 56. A male cat 57. Anger 58. Paddle

ACROSS
1. Rundown 6. Beginning 11. Transgression 14. Use to ones advantage 15. French for Red 16. Bother 17. A 4-sided solid 19. Mesh 20. Hangmans knot 21. A stringed instrument of India 23. Spermal fluid 26. Conclusion 27. A series of words starting with the same consonant 31. Presents 32. Sea 33. Clever 36. Radiate 37. Boast 38. Box 39. Lair 40. Odd-numbered page 41. Oversight 42. Certify 44. A person with white hair and milky skin 47. The joint just above the foot 48. A formal association 49. At what place? 53. Arranger (abbrev.) 54. Positioning 59. Anagram of Dim 60. Involving the entire planet 61. Small Asian goat antelope 62. Commercials 63. Requires 64. Manicurists board
ANSWERS are posted online at ourmag.ca