In the Village

The Plunge! Aquatic Centre open 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Columbia Guided Snowshoe 10:30 a.m. – meet at Columbia Store in Village.

Horse & Wagon Rides – meet at Windy O’Neills 1:30 p.m. -4 p.m.

Oliver & Bonacini at the Westin (Live music) 3 p.m.-5 p.m.

Twist (Live music) 3 p.m.-7 p.m.

Tholos Live music and Greek dancing 7 p.m.

Windy O’Neills (Live music ) 9:30 p.m.

Kaytoo, Twist, Avalanche, Rusty’s (DJ at 10 p.m.)

Fast & Female Ski Cross Day for girls ages 11-14, 1:30 – 4 p.m.  in the Village Conference.

Molson Canadian Pond Hockey: Canadian National Snowboardcross Team vs. Canadian National Ski Cross Team  8 p.m. – 9 p.m. on the Village Mill Pond.

LG FIS Snowboardcross World Cup Powered by Volkswagen (February 6-8)

Monday February 6

• Mens Training 10:35 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• Ladies Training 12:45 p.m. – 2:15p.m.

Tuesday February 7

• Mens & Ladies Inspection 9:30 a.m.- 9:45 a.m.
• Mens & Ladies Training 9:55 a.m.- 11 a.m.
• Mens & Ladies Qualifications 11:15 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday February 8

• Finalists Training 1 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
• LG Snowboardcross FIS World Cup Main Event 2 p.m.
• Awards 3 p.m.

It’s also an excuse to eat all the foods that you have sworn off since you made your New Years’ resolutions at the beginning of January. After all what’s a super bowl without wings, chips, pizza, beer and other fattening foods – embrace the experience. Work it off the next day.

Foods:

• Do not plan to make food that you are going to have to be in the kitchen making while everyone is socializing and watching the game.

• Buffet only, everyone will want to be sitting in front of the television the entire game.

• Finger foods: Wings, veggie plate (so you can feel a bit of redemption), chips, dips

• Frozen appetizers and desserts

• Beverages: Alcohol, beer, soda, water

• Ice

Stagger the times you bring out the food…football goes on for hours. Your guests will be eating the entire time so you want the foods to be warm and you don’t want the dips to get all lumpy and hard.

Keep it simple

• Paper plates, cardboard or plastic bowls for guests to use. Don’t worry about keeping up with the Jones…again, it’s not fancy!

Adding to the excitement

• Betting pool-guests are probably going to be betting on the game amongst themselves, so have some prizes and extra quarters hanging around.

• TV, if you don’t have a big screen you might want to rent one for the day.

Clean up

Spills will happen, just be prepared and have your paper towels and sprays ready for action.

- Although it’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together, winter weather often magnifies existing vehicle problems. It’s important that drivers visit their automotive service providers to make sure their vehicles’ engines, batteries and cooling and exhaust systems are in tip-top shape before the winter months.

- If outside the snow is falling, drivers should check their tire pressure and tread depth. A tire may lose one pound per square inch (psi) for every 10 degree Celsius temperature drop. Drivers should check their tire pressure weekly. Winter tires are designed to improve a vehicle’s stability and handling in adverse driving conditions.

- When on the road, snow is glistening, drivers should slow down to improve vehicle traction and be prepared for longer stopping distances. Abrupt braking, accelerating and turning can cause the driver to lose control of his or her vehicle. If a car or truck begins to skid, a driver should avoid slamming on the brakes; instead, he or she should gently take his or her foot off the accelerator and try to regain traction.

- If over the river and through the woods, a vehicle gets stuck in the snow, kitty litter, sand, an asphalt shingle or gravel placed under the tires can help regain traction. Drivers should not spin their tires. This could make the tires overheat and cause damage to them.

Driving in a winter wonderland can be dangerous, but reviewing simple vehicle-maintenance and safe-driving tips will get you to where you are going.

Source: NewsUSA

What makes Lodges of Blue Mountain special is that we offer guests the comforts of “a home away from home”. And its not more evident than in the upcoming weeks in Collingwood, whether a participant or a spectator of the World Cup Ski  & Snowboardcross and Audi FIS Ski Cross World Cup, you can keep the excitement going from the slopes with a group of friends and settle in to watch the Superbowl.

Stay at one of our town homes with various amenities (BBQ) and try these chicken wings during the big game or any other time.  Broilkingbbq.com offers a wide variety of recipes, tips, and tricks for everyone from the novice griller to the die-hard outdoor chef.  The barbecue chefs at Broil King have developed this recipe for delicious grilled wings.

Grilled Chicken Wings with Roquefort Dip

Serves 6 – 8 people

3 lb chicken wings – cleaned and trimmed.

Select wings of roughly equal size for evenness of cooking.

Ingredients

Marinade:

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 tsp cayenne

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp oregano

1 tsp kosher salt

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

Blue Cheese Dip

1/2 cup Mayonnaise

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tbsp onion, grated

1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

1/3 cup blue cheese, crumbled

Directions

Preheat the barbecue on HIGH.

Cut each wing at the joint to make two pieces, and discard wing tip if still attached. In a large re-sealable bag, whisk together vegetable oil, garlic, spices and vinegar. Add chicken wings and toss to coat.

If using rotisserie basket, spray or brush lightly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Place chicken wings on bottom of basket, cover with the top part, and fasten on tightest setting to secure the wings in place. Cooking grids will need to be removed, and a drip pan placed beneath. If using rear rotisserie burner, set to HIGH. If using lower burners, set to MEDIUM. Place the basket on spit and in the rotisserie and start the motor. Cook until golden brown and crisp, about 45 minutes to an hour.

If cooking directly on well oiled cooking grids, turn heat to low, and cook, turning frequently until golden brown and crisp, 30 – 45 minutes.  Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that all wings are cooked through and ready to eat.

Stir together all the dip ingredients. May be made ahead of time and chilled until ready to serve with chicken wings, celery and carrots.

More information on grilling and great recipe ideas is available at www.broilkingbbq.com

www.newscanada.com

January 14, 8:00 p.m.

Canadian Indie band, The Heart Broken: Damhnait Doyle, Blake Manning, Stuart Cameron and Peter Fusco. Canadian country music group Ladies of the Canyon, Senja Sargent, Maia Davies, Jasmine Bleile and Anna Ruddick are from Montreal.

1-877-538-0463   www.meafordhall.ca


Sunday Jazz and Blues at The Huron Club

January 15, 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Located at the corner of Second and Pine Street in Historic Downtown Collingwood. The Huron Club offers a delicious brunch. Drink specials – $5 for a Mimosa or a Bloody Caesar.

705-293-6677    www.thehuronclub.ca

Columbia Guided Snowshoe Tours

Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday at 10:30a.m.  Columbia Sports Store offers  a free guided snowshoe tour* up the mountain through forest trails and open slopes.

*Weather Permitting, rentals available at Activity Central ($10/pair) A waiver is required, meet at 10:15 a.m. at the Adult Columbia Store. Suitable for ages 5+, complimentary hot chocolate voucher included.

Coming Soon- Have you booked your suite for the upcoming games?

“The Ontario Winter Games is coming to Collingwood March 5th-12th. The Town of Collingwood has been chosen to host the 2012 Winter Games by the Sport Alliance of Ontario. The Town will partner with facilities in outlying communities including The Blue Mountains, Wasaga Beach, Clearview Township, and Midland.”

705-444-2500 Ext. 3286   www.collingwood.ca


Village Shopping Hours

Open Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Sunday – Thursday 10 a.m – 7 p.m

We’ve gathered some tips that will assist in making your next vacation stay fabulous.

1. Price – Decide on what you are comfortable paying each night for your accommodation. You must consider star ratings, type of lodging, amenities and proximity to your point of interest.

2. Type of lodging: What are you looking for – hotel (room type), bed-in-breakfast, chalet?

3. Location – Is it close to your place of interest? Do you mind a short walk? Do you mind taking a taxi or public transportation?

4. Make a list of amenities that are important for your needs – fitness centre, swimming pool, kitchen etc.

5. Family Friendly – Do you require child minding services?

6. Luxury: Do you want luxurious accommodations or the basics?

7. Ambiance: Do you want local inspired or standard hotel?

8. Loyalty Programs: Are you looking for one that offers loyalty programs or perks such as discounts for local shopping establishments, car rental or restaurants?

1. Pack wisely
The more you haul, the more fuel you will burn, so only take what you will actually use during your vacation. Before embarking on your trip, clean out your car and if in doubt, take it out.

2. Factor in delays
Expect the unexpected when planning departure and arrival times. Traffic, construction, road closures and detours can always pop-up to and from your destination.

3. Consider entertainment
Activities and games for the kids will help prevent backseat meltdowns, helping to keep your concentration on the road ahead. A deck of cards, portable DVD players and picture books are great ways to keep passengers distracted for hours.

4. Take care of your body
Stop and stretch every two or three hours to prevent muscle and back injuries. Stretching improves blood circulation, posture and relaxed muscles. For therapy while driving, try specialized cushions. ObusForme, for example, has two popular lines: the Personalized-Comfort Drivers Seat, which can be adjusted for a custom fit while providing heat and massaging vibrations; and the Memory Foam Travel Pillow to keep the passenger comfortable. More information at: www.obsuforme.com.

5. Pack an emergency road kit
To help ensure small mishaps on the road don’t become big dramas, consider packing jumper cables, a fuel container, nightlight, car games, water, snacks, and extra cash.

www.newscanada.com

Winter foods typically mean one thing: comfort. Regardless of the climate, we crave the root vegetables and braised meats that go with the season and keep our bellies full and warm. Luckily, almonds in all their forms guarantee these dishes taste as indulgent and delicious as the very things we crave.

Chef Anthony Rose of the trend-setting Drake Hotel in Toronto, is a consummate pro at using seasonal foods and almonds to create comforting, delicious and unexpected dishes. His wintry creations take the best of what the season has to offer and add the distinct crunch and flavour of almonds.

“I love the rich, buttery flavour and crunch of toasted almonds,” Rose explains. “They make the perfect addition to any dish, whether a starter, main course or even in dessert and cocktails. Braised dishes and winter salads always benefit from the unrivaled crunch almonds provide.”

Chef Rose’s winter recipes, such as roasted beets in a tangy mustard-almond vinaigrette and braised pork shoulder with an apple-almond compote, create an entire menu that balances seasonal ingredients with zesty flavours and the crunch of almonds. Most popular are his Almond-Crusted Pumpkin Fritters, a tasty treat that always lends a colourful, festive, and crunchy start to any cozy gathering.

Visit www.AlmondBoard.com for more recipes by Chef Anthony Rose and the Almond Innovator team: Pastry Chef Jenny McCoy of Craft in New York City, and mixologist Matthew Biancaniello of the Library Bar in Los Angeles.

Almond Crusted Pumpkin Fritters

Makes 16-20 servings

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) cooked Kabocha squash (1 small raw)

1/2 lb (227 g) cooked russet potato (1 large raw)

2 tbsp (30 mL) extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp (15 mL) crushed chili flake

1 cup (250 mL) salt

3 tbsp (45 mL) chopped sage

1 oz (30 g) grated parmesan

1 oz (30 g) grated cheddar

1 egg yolk

zest of half a lemon

4 eggs

1 1/2 cup (375 mL) all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cup (375 mL) toasted crushed almonds

salt and pepper, to taste

1 bag micro greens

Directions

Set oven to 350°F (190°C). Split squash width-wise and scrape out seeds. Drizzle each half with olive oil, and sprinkle with chili flakes, a pinch of salt and pepper and let sit for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, stab each potato four times around with a fork. Line another sheet pan with the cup of salt and place the potatoes on top. Place squash face-down on a parchment lined sheet tray.

Bake both squash and potatoes in the oven for 1 hour or until soft. Remove from the oven, carefully split open potatoes lengthwise to steam, and allow all to cool completely.

When cool, scoop out squash and potato into bowl and add sage, parmesan, cheddar, egg and lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper. Combine thoroughly; a chunky texture is fine.

Prepare fritters for frying. Set up three bowls and one parchment lined sheet tray. In one bowl, whisk together eggs; place almonds and flour separately in two other bowls.

With a large spoon or scoop, take about 2 tbsp (30 mL) of squash mixture and form an oval; dredge in flour, dip in egg and roll in almonds before placing onto the sheet pan. Repeat with remaining squash and refrigerate until ready to fry.

In a deep, heavy bottomed pan, heat oil to 300°F (150°C) and carefully pan fry the fritters until golden brown on each side, approximately 2 ½ minutes each side. Remove from oil and drain on paper towel and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Serve hot on a small bed of microgreens with or without sauce.

Almond Crusted Pumpkin Fritter Sauce

Ingredients

1/2 cup (125 mL) sour cream

1/4 tsp (1 mL) finely chopped Thai chili

2 tbsp (30 mL) chopped chives

1 tbsp (15 mL) lemon zest

1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) lemon juice

2 tsp (10 mL) maple syrup

1 tsp (5 mL) kosher salt

1/2 tsp (2 mL) cracked black pepper

Directions

In a bowl, thoroughly combine all ingredients. Store refrigerated in an airtight container for at least one day before serving. Mix thoroughly before serving.

Nutritional Analysis per serving: Calories: 169.3, Fibre: 2.5 g Fat: 10.4 g, Cholesterol: 56 mg

Sat Fat: 1.7 g, Sodium: 206.1 mg, Mono Fat: 5.8 g, Calcium: 104.1 mg, Poly Fat: 2 g, Magnesium: 43.2 mg, Protein: 6.4 g, Potassium: 276.4 mg, Carb: 14.1 g, Vitamin E: 3.4 mg*

* total alpha-tocopherol equivalents

www.newscanada.com

Billabong Flaunt It 2012, Slopestyle & Rail Jam from Billabong Girls on Vimeo.

Calling all girls! Billabongs Flaunt It, girls Slopestyle and Rail Jam is back for its sixth year! The series starts at Blue Mountain on Jan. 21. Win big money!

“As part of the TTR World Snowboard tour, Flaunt It’s first 6 stops are TTR 3 star events with the Slopestyle winners receiving airfare and accommodation to the series finals. New to this year are stops at Lake Louise, AB and Mont Saint-Sauveur, QC. The Flaunt It Finals (with Jamie Anderson) are back to Sierra-at-Tahoe March 31st, which will be a TTR 4 star event featuring a $10,000 cash purse, plus lots of additional prizing from tour sponsors.” Click here to find out more and register.