Uxbridge Town Talk - April 2016 by Uxbridge Town Talk

Volume 8 | Issue 3 | April 2016

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uxbridge town talk

april showerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bring artistic flowers | udora corner store | brookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s farms | everyone likes birds 1

l o o h c S Riding

Here at Hop Hill Stables we are a family, friendly stable who are committed to the safety and well being of both rider and horse. Come and learn about horses and how to ride at one of Ontarioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest and award winning stables.

One hour group lessons - $50 (max 4 people) Half hour private lesson - $60

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Beginner package - 4 private lessons - $200

Certified O.E.F. Facility Certified E.C. Coach on Site Kate Lane 905-852-9457 manager@hophill.ca

www.hophillstables.ca

contents

volume 8 | issue 3 | april 2016

“It’s a long, slow sunset for ink-on- paper magazines” Felix Dennis

Town Talk Tidbits April Fun Facts

Guest Column Outspoken Custom Cycle

Guest Column Uxbridge Horseman’s Association

6 Art in Uxbridge April Showers bring Artistic Flowers

7 Agricultural News Brook’s Farms

8 Community Calendar April 2016

Historically Speaking Udora Corner Store

12 Suzy’s Q & A Pre-Teen Communication

13 UTT Kitchen Cabbage Roll Casserole

14 Guest Column Uxbridge Pump Park

Community Calendar Cont’d April 2016

My Environment Everyone Likes Birds

STAFF Managing Editor: Elaine Leigh Graphic Designer: Sandi Leigh Sales Manager: Sandi Leigh

CONTRIBUTORS Dorothea Helms Samantha Smith Gloria Eng Susan Fumerton Brian MacLean Stephen Snoddon

MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 1035, Uxbridge ON L9P 1N3 OFFICE ADDRESS 24 Toronto St. N., Unit 3 Uxbridge, ON L9P 1E6

We may not always publish online in the future. However our feeling of success this month indicates that many of you enjoy it and of course we are doing our bit to help the environment. We are saving trees a little bit at a time or in our case one magazine at a time. We will keep you in the loop for more exciting updates.

-town talk Available online at www.uxbridgetowntalk.com or www.issuu. com/uxbridgetowntalk. Can be downloaded as well! EDITORIAL MESSAGE Unless otherwise stated, all product reviews, articles and other features are chosen by us at our discretion. If you would like to be featured please contact us. Uxbridge Town Talk is a monthly publication by Sweet World Media. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for the claims, views, opinions, comments or advertisement herein. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. Uxbridge Town Talk does not endorse any advertised product, service or event. The Publisher is not responsible for any typographical errors. Advertisers are responsible for any copyright issues. Uxbridge Town Talk will not be held responsible for errors, print or otherwise, in submitted ads. No part of this publication, including advertisements, may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.

www.sweetworldmedia.com

The font used in “Uxbridge Town Talk” is the Gibson Family Font designed by Rod McDonald to honor my father in law John Gibson. It is available for sale at www.canadatype.net/fonts/ gibson. All proceeds are donated by Canada Type to various programs to help improve creative arts and to elevate design programs in Canada.

COVER PHOTO Elaine Leigh | Local Photographer | facebook.com/uxbridgetowntalk

Yet, that is not to suggest everything is perfect online. We know people love the feel of reading our local papers: there is something about newsprint that makes a local story feel real. A lot of us read magazines from cover to cover, headlines to ads. And who doesn’t love the feel of a novel; it somehow seems to engulf you in the storyline. Do I always read newspapers or books in a hard physical copy? No! I tend to remove the pile of ads from the centre of the paper at my front door on Saturday morning. Books are another thing; I find it very convenient to have them available on my ipad when I travel. I can download as many books or magazines that I want all on one convenient device. Personally, I find magazines easier to read online and more convenient. The photos are amazing! And subscriptions are a lot cheaper. From a business perspective, the advertisements stand out beautifully. In the case of Uxbridge Town Talk, our cover is usually the work of fantastic local artist John Cavers. His work is enhanced with our mobile technology.

twitter.com/uxtowntalk

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but sunsets can produce positive changes. March was our first online Uxbridge Town Talk edition and we are hoping to get your feedback. What did you think? Our feedback to date has been positive. Statistics show it was a huge success, indicating many of you are reading online, or as we believe online magazines.

town talk tidbits

| april fun facts |

SOURCED FROM: WIKTIONARY.ORG | WIKIPEDIA.ORG | DUCKSTERS.COM

April, traditionally a rainy period, gives way to May, when flowers will bloom because of the water provided to them by the April rains

April

1st

April Fools Day

Historical Names

Roman: Aprilis Saxon: Eosturmonath (Easter month) Germanic: Oster-mond

Symbols of April

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Birthstone: Diamond Flower: Daisy and the Sweet Pea Zodiac signs: Aries and Taurus

April Fools Middle Ages Origins In the Middle Ages, New Year’s Day was celebrated on March 25 in most European towns. In some areas of France, New Year’s was a week-long holiday ending on April 1. Some writers suggest that April Fools’ originated because those who celebrated on January 1 made fun of those who celebrated on other dates. The use of January 1 as New Year’s Day was common in France by the mid-16th century, and this date was adopted officially in 1564 by the Edict of Roussillon.

April Showers bring May flowers! April Fools’ Day

(sometimes called All Fools’ Day) is celebrated every year on April 1 by playing practical jokes and spreading hoaxes. The jokes and their victims are called April fools. People playing April Fool jokes expose their prank by shouting April Fool. Some newspapers, magazines, and other published media report fake stories, which are usually explained the next day or below the news section in small letters. Although popular since the 19th century, the day is not a public holiday in any country.

It is thought that the name April comes from the Latin word “to open” and describes the trees opening at springtime

Since its inception as a non-profit incorporation in the mid 1980’s, the Uxbridge Horsemen’s Association has been the local voice for the equestrian in Durham and surrounding areas. What started as a trail riding group, quickly morphed into a vibrant group of people devoted to horses and their people regardless of discipline. Through the years the Association has held many activities from schooling shows (both English and Western) to presenting the Everything Equine Trade Show with headliners and vendors. A proud accomplishment was being able to bring the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Musical Ride to Uxbridge. The Association is also philanthropical and has donated raised funds to many worthy causes over the years. Look closely and you will see us doing Food Drives, clinics, seminars and of course always enjoying our time spent in the saddle with fellow members. The UHA supports the community and participates in the Uxbridge Santa Claus Parade, Fantasy of Lights and the Uxbridge Fall Fair. With the change of Executive comes fresh thinking and a change in ideas that mesh with the changing times. This year the UHA Executive is working with various Local Trail Committees and Conservation Authorities to ensure that The UHA is involved in local trail initiatives, trail maintenance, development of trail etiquette and rules. The UHA would like to be a valuable liaison with these groups and associations to ensure that horse riders continue to have access to multi-use trails. We would like to improve education

and encourage a positive interaction and sharing of trails by all users whether they are hikers, bikers, dog walkers, runners or people on horseback etc. The UHA is a voice for the local equine community and we are interested in expanding our member base. The objectives of the UHA are: 1. To provide a forum in Uxbridge and the surrounding area for a growing number of people interested in and/or involved with horses. 2. To promote horsemanship and fellowship among members in the community. 3. To provide social recreational and educational outlets and to generate a common ground for area horse people to exchange ideas and interests in their particular field of horsemanship or other area. 4. To generate funds and utilize these in a philanthropic manner.

guest column

SUBMITTED BY: LISA WALKER, SECRETARY OF THE UXBRIDGE HORSEMAN’S ASSOCIATION

This year watch for our Open Schooling Show Series (both English and Western) to be held in Uxbridge’s lovely Elgin Park. Show dates are May 14, June 18, July 16 (tba), August 13 and September 17 and are open to the community and will be great for kids and adults alike! More information about the Uxbridge Horsemen’s Association and our show series please go to our website at www.uxbridgehorsemen.com or visit us on Facebook, or call Lisa Walker, Uxbridge Horsemen’s Association Inc., Secretary at 416-873-5562.

Uxbridge Renovation Showroom | 905-852-7722 | 17991 Lakeridge Road

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| uxbridge horseman’s association |

art in uxbridge

| april showers bring artistic flowers |

BY DOROTHEA HELMS

Need to feed your artistic sensibilities?

This month, I want to tell you about two Uxbridge organizations that have captivated the imaginations of people of all ages and backgrounds. “Artists

Uxbridge” is a group of people who draw, paint and sometimes create in other genres – together – in a relaxed, positive environment. I met with Ann Goldring at one of the group meetings, and I was gobsmacked by the intricacies and beauty of the members’ work. “Susan Holt started this group in 2005,” Ann said. “Most members draw in pen and ink and paint in acrylics, oils or watercolours. We share DVDs, books, magazines and information, and we learn from each other. That’s the beauty of creating our art in the same room.” That room is upstairs at Zehrs, where the group meets once a week, alternating between Monday evening (6:30 to 9:30 p.m.) one week, and the following week, Wednesday morning (9 a.m. to noon), and so on. Occasionally, Artists of Uxbridge features workshops on topics such as value studies, which involves sketching quickly in one colour and then adding shading for the illusion of depth and whatever else the artist wants to communicate. “Studying values and how important they are in a work of art helped a lot of us advance,” Ann adds. To get some idea of the work Artists of Uxbridge is creating, visit the group’s upcoming Art Show and Sale. Stop by Life Art Studio at 170 Reach Street, Friday April 29 from 12 to 6 p.m.; Saturday, April 30, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, May 1, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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“We love learning together, and we look forward to being inspired by even more members,” Ann adds. “People of all levels of experience are welcome.” Anyone who is interested can contact Ann at 905852-8831 or visit ArtistsofUxbridge.ca to find out the days and time. Membership is $80.

The other group I’m highlighting this month is “uxperience.” The 2016 show is just around the corner, on May 5, 6 and 7. This is the 25th year that the group has sung, danced and offered hilarious skits to raise money for local charities. This year’s donation will go to Sunrise Pregnancy & Support Services Uxbridge (SunriseUxbridge.com). Director Kathy Bridgeman selected the theme Alice’s Adventures in Uxland. “I’ve always loved the Alice in Wonderland stories,” Kathy says. “There is something magical about Alice falling down the hole and entering a madcap world. You really can be who you want to be, no matter what your size and whether you are a bit wacky, if you

believe in yourself.” Music director Cyndie Jacobs, Barry Fraser on keyboard, a live band and the chorus will take the audience on a musical journey through uxland and beyond. Plus, watch for a stunning blacklight performance orchestrated by Laura Mombourquette and Jim Peacock. The skit group is directed by Rick Callaghan, Dave Mutton and my hubby, Rich Helms. According to Dave, “We’re having a lot of fun with the characters. Alice will be played by a few actors, and with the Queen of Hearts saying ‘Off with their heads’ so often, heads will definitely roll!” A few uxperience alumni are returning for this special anniversary, such as Mark Christoff and Cathy Christoff, who will perform an “IGA Watchers” skit in memory of Cathy’s dad, Ken More. The show will be held at the Uxbridge Music Hall. Tickets for reserved seating are $22 per adult; $10 per child. Buy them online at StarTicketing.com, in person at Sugar FX and Little Acorn, or at the door, depending on availability. Visit uxperience.ca. Dorothea Helms connects people and ideas, and can be reached at fairy@thewritingfairy.com Dorothea Helms, a.k.a. The Writing Fairy, is an award-winning writer and popular creative writing instructor who also owns the freelance business Write Stuff Writing Services. She makes her living connecting people and ideas, and can be reached at writer@wsws.ca

This past month I had the opportunity to meet Paul Brooks and take a tour of their maple syrup making process. In the early days maple syrup was made by collecting sap in baskets made of bark, which would then be brought to a hollowed out log and placed near a fire. Rocks, which were

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heated in the fire, were then placed inside of the log along with the sap collected which would steam off some of the water; as the rocks cooled they were removed and replaced by fresh ones from the fire until the water was evaporated and maple sugar remained. However, as methods had streamlined by the time the Brooks family began making maple syrup their operation started off using the bucket method of collecting sap from the maple trees, slowly building the number of trees they tapped each year - in a good season they were able to yield around 60L of maple syrup after the sap was boiled down. Growing up Paul remembers enjoying taking part in the tradition of making maple syrup from the age of 5. Each year they were given new tasks and more responsibility, starting with the collection of twigs and branches for the log pile, and when they were able to carry a bucket without spilling they were allowed to collect the sap, then stock the fire and it continued until they were responsible for boiling down the syrup until finish. Today they are using a much more efficient method where in they use a line and vacuum system that has allowed them to increase their yield to around 600L of maple syrup! Each line has 6 taps and is connected to a main line that draws all the sap to the collection container. The syrup is then boiled until it is near its finish (approximately 66-67% sugar) at which point it is transferred to the finishing stove that more accurately brings the syrup to the final temperature which is around 3.8 degrees above the boiling point of water. The syrup is then pumped through a multi-pass filter press to remove impurities before it makes its way to the holding tank, which is heated like a double boiler to keep the syrup fluid until it is bottled. Every 40L of sap will yield somewhere around 1L of pure maple syrup, to say the least the process is time consuming and requires some patience! B ro o k s Farms opens on weekends (weather dependent) during the months of April and May and will open daily near the end of May. For more information on opening times and future events you can visit their website at www. brooksfarms.com . After spending the last year traveling abroad Samantha has come home to discover the hidden gems in and surrounding Uxbridge. Local to Goodwood, Samantha splits her time between managing her family’s Alpaca farm, photography and traveling - so naturally exploring local farms seemed like a perfect fit!

agricultural news

Brooks Farms began in the mid 1800’s when Edward Brooks brought his family to Canada from England. For over 150 years they grew corn, wheat, barley, turnips and potatoes along with a number of farm animals. In 1990 they added pick-your-own strawberries and raspberries and in 1998 pumpkins were added to the farm, which began the “Fall Fun Festival”! Brooks Farms hosts several other events throughout the year including the Maple Syrup Festival and the annual Easter Fest Egg Hunt. At these events Brooks Farms has a number of activities to entertain the entire family including train rides, a jumping pillow, zip lines and during the Fall Fun Festival you will also find the corn maze, pig races, corn cob blasters, straw jumps and more!

BY SAMANTHA SMITH

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| brook’s farms “growing fun for over 100 years” |

community calendar

| april community calendar | Library Book Sale Library book sale sponsored by The Friends of the Library Spring at the Square Technology Square is in the Lower Meeting Room of the library. hosting a free family event on Saturday, April Saturday, Sunday and Monday. 9 from 10 AM – 3 PM. We’ll have a jumping Time: 10 am - 5 pm (Saturday), 1pm - 5pm (Sunday), castle & free play at Clubhouse, grow-your- 10am - 1pm (Monday) own plant at Maplebrook Dental, an hour Where: Uxbridge Library, 9 Toronto Street S. of free family yoga at NRG4Life, snacks, Scavenger hunts & more. There will also be WEDNESDAY APRIL 20TH a bunch of promotions, prizes, draws and all sorts of good stuff so the parents should Knitting Classes The Uxbridge Public enjoy it as well! Library and Friends of the Uxbridge Public Library present KNITTING CLASSES by Carol Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm McGavin and Barb Harvel of Never Enough Where: Technology Square, 280 Main Street N. Wool at the Lower Meeting Room of the Contact: 1-877-857-2333 ext 205 library. TechniqueÂ - entrelac knitting. Cost $20.00. Register at the Uxbridge Library Adult SUNDAY APRIL 10TH Department. Wednesdays until May 25th, 6 Jazz @ Nexus Coffee Co. Come enjoy weeks total. your favourite coffee or tea to the sounds Time: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm of Northern Latitude Jazz! Cool sounds in Where: Uxbridge Library, 9 Toronto Street S. Uxbridge’s cool coffee house! Contact: Carol or Barb @ 905-985-0030 SATURDAY APRIL 9TH

Where: Nexus Coffee, 19 Brock Street W. Contact: contact@northernlatitudejazz.com

SATURDAY APRIL 16TH

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Lt.Col. Samuel Sharpe Gala Students will be telling the story of Uxbridge during First World wartime, and sharing about the significant contribution of Lt. Col. Samuel Sharpe and the 116th Battalion, which was raised out of Uxbridge and surrounding areas. The evening will act as a fundraiser as well as the opportunity to share the stories of Sam and other former members of Uxbridge Secondary School and the 116th. The evening will include dinner prepared by our USS food school; a program featuring author Ted Barris, tenor Stephen Harland, soprano Jacqueline Smith, and Uxbridge Legion Pipes and Drums; historical exhibits and displays; a dance to the Big Band music of Hot Air; a dream auction plus some surprises! This will certainly be a sold‐out event!

Time: 5:30 pm - 11:30 pm Where: Uxbridge Secondary School, 127 Planks Ln Contact: Patricia MacDonald @ 905-649-0180

FRIDAY APRIL 22ND Earth Day - Trails Clean Up! Hike the Town Trails and Help Keep Your Trails Beautiful at the Same Time! Rain or Shine! Here in Uxbridge, Trail Captains are hosting a Trails Clean-up day on, please join us at either the Trestle Bridge (John McCutcheon Way) or at the Countryside Preserve on Wellwood Drive (behind Walmart) at 10:30 a.m. Alternatively, you can also clean up your favourite town trail. Just sign in at the Township Office - Reception Area between April 18 and 22. Garbage bags and hygienic gloves will be available at signup. When complete, filled garbage and recycle bags are to be left at the trail entrance for pick-up by Town crews. Do your part let’s make Uxbridge the Clean Trail Capital on Earth Day! Time: 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Contact: Don Cook 905-852-9181 ext. 232 or uxbridge.trails@hotmail.com

SATURDAY APRIL 23RD

around the corner! On Saturday April 23rd everyone is once again invited out for a great fun-filled day of fishing. Elgin Pond will be the home of 100’s of Brook trout just waiting to be caught by any participant 15 years of age and under. Kick off for the event will be a Huck Finn parade. Starting at Elgin Park at 9:15 a.m., all children and parents are encouraged to dress up in your best Huck Finn outfits. Decorate your bikes and wagons too! All parade participants will be entitled to a V.I.P. fishing area after the parade. Lots of special prizes for those participating in the parade! Bring your equipment…we’ll provide the bait to all registered participants! To register pick up your ribbon ahead of time at any of the following locations: Uxpool, Uxbridge Legion, Presents, Presents, Blue Heron Books and Canadian Tire. You can also get them at the Pond on the day of the event. If you don’t have any gear the Pickering Rod and Gun Club will be pleased to lend it to anyone 15 and under! Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Where: Elgin Pond, Uxbridge Contact: Pat Higgins or Amanda Ferraro 905 852-3315 or 905 852-7831

FRIDAY APRIL 29TH Artists of Uxbridge Art Show Meet the artists of Uxbridge at our annual art show. We have original art work for sale. Please join us . Friday through Sunday. Where: Art Life Art Studio, 170 Reach St. Unit 4 Contact: ann.goldring@bell.net Website: artistsofUxbridge.ca

SATURDAY APRIL 30TH Community Yard Sale Uxbridge Legion parking lot. Rain or shine (inside or out) Sell your treasures @ $15.00/spot or donate gently used items to the Legion.BBQ and refreshments available. Time: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Huck Finn Day The 14th annual Uxbridge Where: Uxbridge Legion, 109 Franklin Street. “Huck Finn” Youth Fishing day is just Contact: Len Cole at 905-852-7633

always accepting new patients

Customizing your Interior and Exterior Finishes

Please Contact Jeremy at 289.231.1319 www.jmtcustomcarpentry.ca

Uxbridge Stouffville Midwives 2 Campbell Drive, Unit 207 | 905 862 3535 | www.uxbridgemidwives.com

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Where: Uxbridge Library, 9 Toronto Street S.

REGULAR EVENTS

Line dancing is great exercise for virtually your whole body. Every Thursday. Time: 9:00am - 11:30am Where: 75 Marietta Street, Uxbridge Contact: 905-852-7792

Taoist Tai Chi at the Uxbridge Seniors Centre. Includes a gentle set of movements that promote well-being for people of all ages and in all conditions. Beginner class: every Friday 9-10am. Continuous class: every Friday 10-11:30am. Where: 75 Marietta Street, Uxbridge Contact: 905 852 2587

Baby Cafe is a non-fee drop in program offered Mondays, all pregnant women, parents & caregivers with infants are welcome. Each session is facilitated by a Lactation Consultant, and a healthy snack is provided. For more information families can contact us. Time: 9:00 am - 11:00 am Where: Uxbridge Public School, 64 Victoria Dr Contact: 905-862-3131 or office@ durhamfamilyresources.org

Friday Morning Music w/ Marg Time: 9:30 am - 11:30 am Where: Uxbridge Public School, 64 Victoria Dr Contact: 905-862-3131 or office@ durhamfamilyresources.org

Monday Morning Singers. Beat the ‘Winter Blahs’ by singing with the women’s choir, directed by Anne Mizen. The group’s preparing a spring concert on April 29th. Practices are Monday Mornings from 9:15-11:30 am. Begins January 18th. No auditions. Visit www.mmsingers.org Where: St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 65 Toronto Street S Contact: 905-852-3693

Wanna Dance? Line Dancing. “You can dance, have fun and exercise all at the same time!” says Dianne Wiseman, the instructor for the line dancing classes being held at the Seniors Centre in Uxbridge. For ages 55 plus

Royal Canadian Legion Every Friday night we play euchre, so if you are interested please come out at 7:00 to sign up and play starts at 7:30 PM. It is a great night of fun for all in the downstairs clubroom. Where: Royal Canadian Legion, Uxbridge

Royal Canadian Legion We have Bingo every Thursday night at 7:30 P.M. until spring. Come on by the upstairs hall with your friends, it could be your lucky night. Time: 7:30pm Where: Royal Canadian Legion, Uxbridge.

Royal Canadian Legion Darts runs every Wednesday night at 7:30 P.M. until spring. Teams are all set but someone is always looking for a spare. Cost for a spare is $3. It’s a great night of fun for all in the upstairs hall. Time: 7:30pm Where: Royal Canadian Legion, Uxbridge

Royal Canadian Legion Meat rolls run every Saturday afternoon from 4–5 PM until Spring. It has been a Canadian Legion tradition for years. Come on out and support your local legion and maybe take home dinner.. Time: 4:00pm - 5:00pm Where: Royal Canadian Legion, Uxbridge

Royal Canadian Legion On the 3rd Monday of every month we hold a veterans

www.littleacorn.ca | 77 Brock St. W | 905 862 3524 Are you ready for SPRING? We have everything you need to enjoy the spring, RAIN or SHINE!

afternoon from 2-4 P.M. This is open to all veterans and their spouse/guest in the area not just Uxbridge members. They enjoy food, beverages, entertainment and door prizes compliments of the Uxbridge Legion. So come out and enjoy an afternoon with old friends and acquaintances or meet some new ones. Night of fun for all in the upstairs hall. Where: Royal Canadian Legion, Uxbridge

Open Mic Thursdays. Open Mic Thursdays are every Thursday at Wixan’s Bridge Presented by Beau’s All Natural Beer and Wixan’s Bridge! Watch awesome local talent, and sing a few songs if you feel up to it! It’s always a great time! The first Thursday of every month there’s a free sampling of Beau’s Lug Tread beer. There’s raffles every Thursday for the performers and the audience! Starts at 9pm. Hosted by Bodan. 2 mics, an acoustic, a bass, a cajon and a foot tambourine are provided for general use! Time: 9:00pm - 11:45pm Where: Wixan’s Bridge 65 Brock Street West Contact: 416-587-4572

Karaoke Wednesday. Karaoke is now every Wednesday Night at Wixan’s Bridge in Uxbridge! It’s All Ages on the main floor. Time: 8:00pm Where: Wixan’s Bridge 65 Brock Street West Uxbridge. Contact: 416-587-4572

Friends of the Uxbridge Public Library The Friends of the Uxbridge Public Library meet on the second Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Uxbridge Library lower meeting room. The Friends of the Library bring awareness to the library by organizing book sales and other events. All proceeds go to the library to help in various expenditures including adding to their extensive DVD collection. New members always welcome. Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm Where: 9 Toronto Street South

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Digital Photography Workshop The Uxbridge Public Library and Friends of the Library present a DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP instructed by Carmen Brennan at the Lower Meeting Room of the library. Bring your own camera, iPhone or iPad and questions. Cost $20.00. Register at the Uxbridge Library Adult Department. Time 1:00 to 3:00

guest column

| outspoken custom cycle |

BY BRIAN MACLEAN

The connection to place, to the land, the wind, the sun, stars, the moon... it sounds romantic, but it’s true - the visceral experience of motion, of moving through time on some amazing machine - a few cars touch on it, but not too many compared to motorcycles. I always felt that any motorcycle journey was special. Antoine Predock Spring is a magical time of the year for all motorcycle riders and enthusiasts. It is the time of the year when our garage doors are opened, the covers are pulled off the bikes and we get our beauties ready for the open roads. While last winter was not a terrible one, Mother Nature did tease us with glimpse of spring. There were sunny days and warmer than usual temperatures tormenting the motorcycle community making the itch to get back on the roads that much more unbearable. At last, the snow is gone, warmer temperatures are experienced more often and the roads are free of ice and sand. The tinkering and preparation begins for each motorcycle rider, while the lure of the open road and the sound of the open throttle on our bikes are taunting us, like a siren at sea. But, if you are anything like me, spring also brings on a mile long list of “honey-do” tasks. Yard work, gardens, patio furniture, window cleaning…etc., are all on my list. So I begin the delicate dance, balancing the “honey-do” tasks with getting my bike ready for the road. Remember, a happy wife is a happy life.

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As more and more motorcycle riders, take the open road as the riding season unravels, I wish to remind all drivers and riders on the road to be cautious and pay more attention. Take more time and care in your driving.

your motorcycle for the upcoming riding season: check tire pressure, tire conditions and its wear from the last season, check and top up all fluids, change your oil if necessary and test all lights and signals. If a tune up is necessary, it’s best to get it done before embarking on your riding season. Please don’t forget your personal gear; helmets are to be inspected yearly for any cracks, make sure you have proper gloves and jackets and boots are cleaned up and inspected. Safety is vital on the road. Not sure what your motorcycle needs? Stop by and see us at OutSpoken Custom Cycle in Uxbridge. We are just around the corner, as the riding season is. We will inspect your bike and make a list of anything it may require. Detailing, oil changes, tires, accessories and custom Hydrographics paint, along with riding apparel are just a few of my favourite things we offer. Safe riding from everyone at OutSpoken Custom Cycle, 12 Douglas Road, Unit 5, Uxbridge, appointments are recommended 905-8528889

Brian MacLean - Owner of Outspoken Custom Cycle, Uxbridge.

Here are a few tips on preparing

Cleaning Supply Store April 23rd & 24th

Anniversary Sale!

Join us for our Sidewalk Sale and SAVE while stocking up!

73 Brock Street W. Uxbridge | 905-852-9419 | www.communitycleaning.ca

BY ELAINE LEIGH

“Living in a small town.. is like living in a large family of rather uncongenial relations. Sometimes it’s fun, and sometimes it’s perfectly awful, but it’s always good for you” ¯ Joyce Dennys,

how busy the store was in those days. Their children helped often in this lovely historic building too. In 1992, Lynn Mallon purchased the store until she sold in 2006 to the current owner Sylvia Lents. My sense of the Udora store today is that it is still the social hub for Udora. As I chatted with Sylvia about the store’s history, every person entering the store was addressed by their first name. What a lovely feeling, to pick up what you need and have the feeling of being a part of a big extended family! I am hoping that tradition will continue to survive in this lovely historic building.

historically speaking

| udora corner store |

As a resident of Uxbridge Elaine has taken the helm of Sweet World Media, publisher of Uxbridge Town Talk. Elaine has three passions, family, photography and her Golden Retriever Jake. With a new business, four grandchildren and plenty of photo opportunities in Uxbridge, life’s been busy but fun!

Life in the early to mid 1800s was very different than it is today. No internet, no cell phones and in many cases no telephones. Communication was limited to conversation, meetings and socials. The Udora General Store began as a mercantile store and had several owners until 1907 when Newt Umphrey purchased it from B.H. Lepard. Until 1946, Udora was also where you spent your Saturday night. Newt was postmaster until 1959 and he had been there for 52 years before he retired. My research suggests Newt was well respected in Udora and certainly went above and beyond to get the mail to residents. Newt’s daughters Vern Elliot and Mrs. Mark Smith took over the store until June of 1962. It was then sold to D.G. Burch. It still served as the General Store and Post Office and it was also an ice cream parlour! New owners Larry and Donna Barton then purchased the store and raised their family in Udora. I had the pleasure of meeting with the Bartons. They speak fondly of being the proprietors and Post Master for the town. We chatted a lot about some of their memories; the muffins that Donna began serving at 6 am with fresh brewed coffee. They shared the changes they made to the residence of the store and

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I love researching the history of buildings and sometimes it is a huge challenge. This month is no exception. But in keeping with the spirit of promoting small town businesses, I felt the general store in Udora was worthy. This store may well be on the list of one of the few independently owned general stores. It not only has a history, but has been and still is the Social Hub for the small town of Udora.

s u z y ’s q & a

| pre-teen communication |

BY: SUZY Q

Question

Our pre teen wants to wear makeup and I am noticing her interest in “older girl’ clothes. As a father, how do I teach self respect in my daughter without being so judgemental? Not in my house dad

for a 12-year-old girl to be wearing make-up or clothing that mimics grown up singers in music videos as an example. This is something I believe that each family has to decide for themselves. Letting her know that you understand why she feels pulled toward looking and behaving older is very important. Even though she will loudly disagree with you and say you are being unfair, she will understand why you’re imposing limits. Since many teens struggle to be accepted by their peers, why not instead help build self esteem to circumvent this problem. Here are a few ways to foster good sense of self in your pre teen daughter Tip #1: Set Boundaries and Expect Them to Follow Rules Clear rules in the home communicate that you value your child. When they know they are valued, this is the first building block of self-esteem. Tip #2: Be Generous With Praise Too often we focus on what our kids are doing wrong. Tune it to positive things your pre teen has done right and give specific examples. But don’t slather it on or they will see right through you. Tip #3: Stay Connected With All Forms of Communication

Answer Dear you don’t have to move out dad,

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It’s hard for dads to accept that their daughters are moving towards independence. Daughters need to figure out their world and their place in it as separate from their parents. There are some good books and general rules to follow to set limits but acknowledging your daughters need to fit in is important.

I know that sexuality and clothing is a particularly sensitive area. The clothing change is prompted by her not wanting to be looked upon as a’ little girl.’ Yet it is hard to give up seeing her as your little girl. I remember when my husband started giving our daughter side ways hugs rather than big bear ones. Suddenly a simple hug was awkward. Men don’t often realize the importance of their interactions or may shy away from too close contact because of their own conditioning. What they say to their daughters can be just as important too. You will be fighting the mass media culture that messages girls her age the idea that she should look and dress like a pop star if they want to be popular and cool. Generally I think young girls should be able to pick their clothes with a tiny bit of makeup. Unless there’s some moral problem with the way they’re dressing, this is a fight you don’t want to have— and you want to pick your fights carefully. While I think clothing shouldn’t be a big argument, if it becomes problematic for a parent, I think there needs to be limits set. It is clearly inappropriate

When you ask your daughter questions, try to pose it so it doesn’t get a yes or no answer. For instance, instead of asking how math is going, ask what you are learning about measurement. Texting is a great way to stay connected too. If your daughter has a big game after school, send a quick text “I hope you and the team have a great game today!” I can’t wait to hear about it tonight. Tip #4: Be Supportive During a Conflict If your daughter is in the middle of a conflict try to listen to her side of the story and don’t be judgmental even if you think she is in the wrong. Instead say “I can understand why you think you are a better choice for team leader and I’m sorry you are talking about what is wrong with Mary rather than why you are the obvious choice” Tip #5 Constructive Criticism Instead of saying “you dress like a tramp” choose one part of their outfit that is suitable and say “I like that red scarf” Also, it is never a good idea to criticize in front of others. Made that mistake before! Tip #6: Encourage Their Individual Talents and yes their individual choice of clothes Most of us have dreams for our daughters. But just because all the women in the family have gone into teaching doesn’t mean yours will want to as well. If your daughter has an obvious talent or desire then show support for it. I f she knows you are behind her, she is much more apt to be successful and confident.

PROVIDED BY : GLORIA ENG

Directions Pre-heat oven to 350 F 1. In a sauce pan, heat oil, then add garlic and onions , brown onions until clear, add diced tomatoes, chicken stock and spaghetti sauce. Stir in oregano, thyme and caraway. Simmer on low heat stirring occasionally to prevent from sticking. 2. Slit casings on Italian sausages, remove casings and discard. In a frying pan, brown ground beef and Italian sausage meat, drain any liquid into the tomato sauce mixture. 3. In a 9 x12 casserole dish - Assemble as follows: ladle tomato mixture to lightly coat bottom of pan, layer 1/3 shredded cabbage, crumble 1/2 meat mixture, crumble 1/2 rice, ladle tomato sauce over this layer, layer 1/3 shredded cabbage, crumble remaining meat mixture, crumble remaining rice, ladle tomato sauce over this layer, top with last layer of shredded cabbage, ladle tomato sauce over this layer, you may have sauce left over.. Use it when serving or freeze for later uses.

Ingredients

2 cans (796 ml) 1 can (680 ml) 1 cup 1 large 1 lb 1 lb 2 tsp 3 cups 3 cloves 1 small 1 tbsp 1 tbsp 1 tsp 1 cup

Diced tomatoes - seasoned ones are great!! Spaghetti sauce - choose your favorite flavour Chicken stock Cabbage - shredded Medium ground beef Italian sausages - choose your favorite flavour Vegetable oil Cooked rice - better if it is a day old Garlic - minced Onion - diced Oregano Thyme Caraway - optional Shredded mozzarella cheese

utt kitchen

| cabbage roll casserole |

4. Line a baking sheet with foil, spray center with cooking spray ( makes pan easier to clean if there is spillage) cover casserole dish tightly with foil, place on baking sheet. 5. Bake 45 minutes.

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6. Remove foil, top with cheese, bake 15 minutes or until cheese bubbles.

guest column

| uxbridge pump park |

BY: STEPHEN SNODDON

The idea of adding a PumpPark at The Fields of Uxbridge arose very shortly after the Rotary Skatepark opened in 2012. There was space available beside the Skatepark, so it seemed like a natural next step. The idea was presented to Council to gain approval in principal for the additional land use. After doing more research, however, it seemed that the ongoing maintenance of a dirt track was going to be too onerous so the pumppark idea was put on the back burner. PumpParks are a geometric configuration of bowls, berms and rollers . The PumpPark idea is a variation on a more traditional bike park. The hard surface broadens the user group to include boards, bikes, scooters and in-line skates. The hard surface also greatly expands the usable weather window. Pumpparks are inherently lowrisk and progressive; speed is naturally limited by the skill of the rider. The “pump” action required, provides a superior cardio and core work- out, while developing skills that are directly transferable to other sport genres.

request for a substantial financial commitment. Rotary liked the idea, but felt they would need partners to make it happen. A “Service Club Summit” was held and Rotary ultimately formed an alliance with the Optimists and Durham Mountain Bike Association (DMBA) to move forward with this idea. The PumpPark idea went back in front of Council again in September of 2015 and was met with overwhelmingly positive response from Council. The coalition of Rotary/ Optimists and DMBA moved ahead to form a broader, community based Pumppark Committee. An official Uxbridge PumpPark logo and Facebook page have been created. A video compilation of hard surface pump parks from around the world is posted on their Facebook page. That video has received over 37,000 views. Based on preliminary design/build quotes, the PumpPark Committee is confident that the park can be built for $350,000 With some financial commitments already secured the PumpPark Committee is looking to expand its’ support base to include industry, corporate and individual partners. The Committee would be happy to discuss both financial and inkind contributions. They would also discuss potential recognition, including names or logos embedded into the park surface. A more formal program is being developed in that regard. Contact the Committee via email at sbsnoddon@gmail.com. Check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/uxbridgepumppark/?ref=hl/

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Be sure to watch the compilation video of hard surface pumpparks from around the globe. That will get you hooked.

Meanwhile in Europe, hard surfaced PumpParks where being built and well reviewed. The addition of hard surface had broadened the appeal of the outdoor PumpPark to include boards, bikes, scooters and roller blades.....all skill levels and ages and was allowing the surface to be ridden rain or shine.

A father and grandfather, Steve lives in Uxbridge along with his wife Annette. Steve is a long time member of Uxbridge Rotary and worked on the committee responsible for the Rotary Skatepark. An avid mountain biker, hiker and snowshoer, Steve is an active member of Durham Mountain Bike Association and the Uxbridge Trails Committee. Steve works locally as a Personal Financial Advisor.

The refreshed concept was presented to Rotary in 2014, along with a

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Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird? David Attenborough For the past three months I have enticed you with the nature that abounds on our 13 acres of paradise. Our next adventure on the property delves into our experiences with birds. Previously we investigated the flora and fauna and now are turning our sights to the flying creatures that live here. In fact, one of the reasons we fell in love with this property is birds! The previous owners were clearly bird lovers and kindly left behind a supply of bird feed and bird feeders. Our first visit was like walking into a bird sanctuary. The chickadees were everywhere, and what a beautiful sound they make! Our next encounter was the blue jays. They are an interesting bird and one I have observed as being bossy. Yet there is no mistaking their sound and absolute beauty. Owls as it turns out are puzzling for us. Since they are nocturnal, seeing one is difficult but you can sure hear them. What a distinctive sound they make! I am pretty sure I heard the distinct sound of the Great Horned owl this past week. I only hope it is looking for a spot to nest and of course choose our property. The screech owl is another habitant with a distinctive sound and one that was familiar. Until I googled the sound, I had no idea it was an owl. We have been advised by a team of experts, to install several bird boxes, five to be exact, to encourage nesting of the screech owl. We can’t wait to see the fruits of our research and completing them! A personal favourite in our house is the humming bird and we have plenty of them. Of course the addition of a humming bird feeder has left us with the most amazing display of this species from early spring until late fall. There is no mistaking their humming sound, and honestly a bird I could easily watch all day. Then there are the various species that I cannot identify. Check out the photo below. This is a bird in our pond and I watched it for an hour collecting dragonflies. I think it is a variety of heron but uncertain of what kind. If you know, please send me a note I would love to identify it. One of my most memorable finds so far would be the Pileated woodpecker. As you see on the cover this month, it is without a doubt one of the most impressive I have seen. This flying friend spent hours trying to peck

holes in what I suspect is a tree with lots of bugs. Not a good sign for the tree, but on my journey with birds very exciting for me. If you want to see more, take a look at the short video and the many photos I had the opportunity to take of this wonderful woodpecker. In keeping with my fact sharing, I thought I would show how these birds keep our ecosystem balanced. • The Pileated Woodpecker whacks at dead trees and fallen logs, looking for their prey, carpenter ants, and the result is leaving unique large rectangular holes. These end up being important shelter for owls, ducks and bats. • The Great Horned Owl is the subject to many legends. A few of the legends; 1) Owls are the only creature that can live with ghosts. 2) The Aboriginals believe the Owl is the spirit of a woman and therefore sacred. 3) Owls in some cultures are believed to bring good fortune. I think it is safe to say these are legends more than facts, but fun nonetheless. Feeding facts; Owls feed on mice, rabbits, skunks, small birds and insects. Their eating habits are huge contributors to controlling small animals and insects.

my environment

BY: ELAINE LEIGH

• The Eastern Screech Owl feeds on squirrels, chipmunks and bats and like the Great Horned Owl is a major contributor to keeping the rodent population in control. The Eastern Screech Owl is only found in the Americas and significantly smaller in size, or the smallest of the owl family. They are only 6 inches in height. • The Chickadee is a North American songbird and a friendly one. The Chickadee has been known to eat the seed out of your hand. They are always popular visitors to backyard birdfeeders. • The Hummingbird, specifically the Ruby-throated Hummingbird is an “Ontario only” humming bird species, and one of the smallest birds in Ontario. The Hummingbird lives on Nectar, but gets their protein from spiders and insects. In late September they migrate to Central American returning mid May. • The blue jay is a large bird in a striking blue colour. Their favorite food is the acorn, helping to spread the seeds of oak trees. I hope you are enjoying my series on nature and in particular my journey to a sustained forest. So we are leaving the birds for now to explore our pond and the many species that keep it healthy. Stay tuned! As a resident of Uxbridge Elaine has taken the helm of Sweet World Media, publisher of Uxbridge Town Talk. Elaine has three passions, family, photography and her Golden Retriever Jake. With a new business, four grandchildren and plenty of photo opportunities in Uxbridge, life’s been busy but fun!

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| everyone likes birds |

Run for the Diamond

UXBRIDGE

mond

HALF MARATHON

10K & 5K TRAIL RUN/WALK

Sunday April 17th 2016

WALK

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2016