Celebrating Milestones
It seems only a short time since we celebrated the year 2000 into the 21st century, admittedly with some trepidation, as some felt there would be a technology meltdown. This did not take place as our computers and phones continued to function and use has even grown since then.
The future is always a question mark as we do not know how AI (Artificial Intelligence) will impact us, but it is definitely now part of life. The "times they are a changing" with Trump leading the US government and who knows who will be the next leader in Canada. Regardless of the unknowns, our portfolio managers at the Croft Financial Group are adapting to take advantage of all the changes.
We are happy to say John and Linda celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on New Year's Eve with family celebrations including fireworks - a great way to start the year.
2025 is also the 25th year of our occupancy of the historic 100 year old "Barry House," so we are going to celebrate and you of course will be invited.
Bringing Back a Favorite Healthy Baked Bean Recipe
Gone but not forgotten, now resurrected. Who does not enjoy baked beans, especially in the frigid winter months, a favorite at many events and on dinner tables?
There are many recipes, but none so popular as the one created by an actual Mrs. Brown in 1937, produced in a small community in upstate New York with limited distribution in the New England area and just for a short time in Canada.
Many were disappointed when the plant closed during the pandemic with no plans to reopen. On visits to relatives stateside we often brought back a case. In an attempt to recreate the recipe after several experiments - success!
We are happy to share - simple but tasty - Grandpa John's baked beans. Let us know if you give this dish a try.
Into a large pot of boiling water add two tablespoons of baking soda and 2 lbs of navy (pea) beans and boil for 10 minutes, then put aside overnight.
Rinse the next day and mix the beans with:
- 2 minced onions
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of catsup
- 1/4 cup of mustard
Cover with water and bake at 300 degrees for 4 hours. Then stir, cover with more water if needed and bake for another 2 to 3 hours. The beans should be firm and ready to serve.
If desired, bacon bits or pieces of ham can be added for additional flavor, or for the more adventurous a small can of crushed pineapple can be included.
Makes enough to freeze for later. Enjoy.
Grandparent Scam Warning
We have included several pages related to recent scams that have been circulating in the Sudbury area targeting grandparents.
A useful tip is to have a family "safe word" that only your family has chosen as an easy way to protect against people who pose as grandchildren. Being forewarned is forearmed.
Greater Sudbury Police Notice
Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre Guidance
Preparing for Your Tax Return - 2024
We begin to process tax returns in March, but recommend that you make sure you have all the information on hand before submitting to us.
Some slips may take more time to arrive, possibly even by late March. It is best to wait to get all the return information you need to avoid having to re-file and delay any possible refund, or possibly pay extra filing costs and/or penalties.
If you are uncertain with what to claim, please check with us.
For prescription amounts, contact your pharmacy who can supply you with a printout of all receipts so you do not miss anything.
