Uxbridge Town Talk

vol 4 | issue 10 | dec 2012

uxbridge town talk

local holiday shopping guide | q & a with santa | chocolate peanut treats

OPENING

MID DECEMBER

C HEC K WEBSITE F OR DETAIL S AND HOURS

info@theclubhouseuxbr idge .com | 280 main st. n. (behind the Dr iver’s Licence office)

www.theclubhouseuxbridge .com

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Town Talk Tidbits

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Local Products Outdoors Lover

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Local Products Teens

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Your Community Charities Local Products Kids

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Local Products Gifts with Bling

December Community Calendar Q & A With Santa Claus

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UTT Kitchen Chocolate Peanut Balls

STAFF Managing Editor: Carly Foster Graphic Designer: Holly Myers Co-op Student: Matthew Burley

COnTACT US Phone: 905 862 3747 Email: info@uxbridgetowntalk.com www.uxbridgetowntalk.com

COnTRiBUTORS John Wood

mAiLinG ADDReSS PO Box 1035 Uxbridge, ON L9P 1N3

COVeR PHOTO www.123rf.com Svetlana Kolpakova

OFFiCe ADDReSS 24 Toronto St. N., Unit 4 Uxbridge, ON LNP 1E6

facebook.com/uxbridgetowntalk

twitter.com/uxtowntalk

Pick up copies at: Zehrs, Blue Heron Books, Township ofďŹ ce, Uxbridge & Zephyr libraries, Radiant Joy Yoga, NRG4Life and more.

EDITORIAL MESSAGE Unless otherwise stated, all product reviews, articles and other features are chosen by us and are unpaid. If you would like to be featured, please contact us.

Uxbridge Town Talk is a bi-monthly publication by Sweet World Media. The Publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for the claims, views, opinions, comments or advertisements 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. No part of this publication, including advertisements, may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.

Copyright Š Sweet World Media 2009 - 2012 www.sweetworldmedia.com

wishing you a safe and

happy holiday 905 852 5691

4 Banff Road, Unit 2, Uxbridge

editorial

contents

www.dgsmithinsurance.com

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volume 4 | issue 10 | dec 2012

We've absolutely loved putting together this all things local holiday gift guide. It completely affirms our belief that you don't have to go outside our borders to shop for your loved ones! We've even included a peek at our favourite charities so you can help others locally. Don't forget each time you support a local merchant, you support our local community.

We also asked our almost 2,000 fans on Uxbridge Town Talk Facebook fan page at www.facebook.com/uxbridgetowntalk what words they would use to describe the holidays, and their answers really moved us: Cozy. Warmth. Delight. Grateful. Family. Love. Cheer. Faith. Pause.

Reflect. Food. Laughter. Merry. Thankful.

We hope you and your families experience all of these this holiday season. In order to spend time with our own families, we will not be publishing a January issue.

Happy New Year and see you in 2013! Enjoy.

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The 12 Days of Christmas On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me… A little history to the song. Apparently we’ve been celebrating Christmas wrong all these years.

The 12 Days of Christmas are December 24th through January 5th, and we should keep the Christmas spirit alive throughout the entire season!

Do You Know Your Reindeer?

You know Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and Vixen, Comet and Cupid and Blitzen, but we’ve been mispronouncing “Donners” name. In the original spelling of his name was “Dunder” which is the German word for Thunder. The Westernized spelling is Donder.

Did You Know?

December starts on the same day of the week as September and ends on the same day of April every year.

Check it out!

Let’s Hug Day! We’re not kidding. December 3rd is official “Let’s Hug Day” so make sure that you hug all your family and friends! It may seem a little strange at first, but it will soon make you feel warm and happy inside.

Get ready for the Holidays at Spa de Vie! Holiday Stress setting in? Treat yourself to some pampering this season with a Custom Organic Facial or Body Treatment at Spa de Vie. We have a wide variety of services to help you unwind and take a break from Christmas Chaos. Parties to attend this season? Get glam nails and makeup for your company party and some Eyelash Extensions too!

Don’t Forget...

We make Gift Giving easy this Holiday Season with Customized gift Baskets and Spa Packages Great Stocking Stuffers for Men and Women and Gift Cards in any denomination.

905.862.3760

2 Campbell Drive Suite 101A

www.spadevie.ca

storie

photo

work

| outdoors lover |

by MaTTheW burley & carly FoSTer

Flurry Assault The 2013 Polaris Industries 800 Switchback Assault 144 is a beast, taking any snowy terrain you throw at it. With tons of amazing features and gadgets, this thing is a guaranteed great ride. $13,199 at D.T. Power Sports and Marine, 8160 Lakeridge Rd.

Book of Fun Dagmar's coupon value book is invaluable for the ski, snowboard and tubing lover. More than $620 in value, with weekend, weeknight and night lift tickets, plus 2-4-1 coupons. $44.25 at www.skidagmar.com.

World Finder On foot, on wheels or on water, this handheld GPS unit does it all with a sunlight-readable touch screen that can take geotagged photos. Durable and waterproof, it's built to handle the elements all year long. $629 at WalMart, 6 Welwood Dr.

Walking on Snow Try something new this winter with snowshoeing. With Tubbs Frontier Snowshoes, you’ll be able to properly manoeuvrer and enjoy the weather while out and about. $169.99 at Canadian Tire, 327 Toronto St. S.

local products

Love to be outside? Here are some great gift ideas for the fresh air junkie in your life.

Breathing Hands The Togwotee Glove offer waterproof and breathable performance in a leather-palm glove. The removable fleece liner adds additional warmth without bulk, interacting flawlessly with your machine's grips and controls. $99 at Uxbridge Motorsports Marine, 3 Douglas Rd.

our Enter to win

D RWAdR raw PAY IT FO

invites you to

Celebrate 25 years

past photos from the present working with you towards the future stories from the

with us

www.lawsonhomeimprovements.com or call 905-852-7722 for draw entry details

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ith a $2,500 thanking you w rity donation. cha r o t i d e r project c

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by MaTTheW burley

They can be notoriously hard to buy for, but we’ve taken all the work out of gift-buying for teens.

The Ultimate Bucket List What Do You Want To Do Before You Die?, written by the Buried Life, is an inspirational book based off of four young adults’ bucket lists, filled with lessons, secrets and stories.

A great buy for someone in need of motivation. $23.95 at Presents, Presents, Presents, 60 Brock St. W

local

products

| teens |

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Kid in a Candy Store Stuff your teens’ stocking with a Bulk Barn Gift Card. Bulk Barns wonderful variety will surely please anyone with a sweet tooth or someone trying to get into a healthier lifestyle with its gluten free and health food products. Price varies at Bulk Barn, 304 Toronto St. S.

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LOCATIONS November 24 (after parade) and November 25

Downtown in his Santa Hut King Henry/CIBC parking lot 1:30 - 3:30 EACH DAY *Please bring your own camera.

December 1 & 2 | December 8 & 9 | December 15 & 16

Uptown in his Santa Hut Outside Canadian Tire

SATURDAYS: 10:30-12:30 | SUNDAYS 12:30- 2:30 *Please bring your own camera.

Sponsored by the Uxbridge BIA www.uxbridgebia.ca

it’s a Game. it Watches You. Erebos, written by Ursula Poznanski, is a fast-paced, high-tension book that will have you sitting at the edge of your seat. It will make you think twice the next time you feel you’ve spent too much time gaming. A fun read for any gamers who enjoy books. $19.95 at Blue Heron Books, 62 Brock St. W.

more Than meets the eye Don’t miss a moment of the actionpacked Transformers Trilogy. Watch as your teens’ eyes widen and jaw drop. Great for the whole family. $29.93 at Wal-Mart, 6 Welwood Dr.

Gifts for everyone on your list!

•Cooking classes •Fine Foods •Kitchenware & Essentials Elegant & Essential Entertaining •Artisan Cheese •Charcuterie •Custom Cheese Boards

68 Brock St. W. 68 Brock St. W. Uxbridge Uxbridge 905 862 3359 905 862 3359 www.thepassionatecook.ca

Guess What?

Prepare for screams of excitement when your daughter realizes that you’ve bought her Guess. From shirts to blouses, these products are very popular among teenage girls so expect some big smiles from your loved ones. $49 and up at Check It Out!, 18 Brock St. W.

The Only Socks your Teens Will Want These socks will keep your feet dry and warm wherever you go. Treated with intensive brushing, the fabric retains air closer to the skin for superior warmth without extra weight or bulk. Whether you’re going out hiking or just making a trip to the store, these socks are your number one choice. $9.99 at Marks, 2 Welwood Dr.

Fresh Kicks Everyone loves DC shoes, and with the new skate park done, start your child off with the right shoes! Whether you like high or low tops, plain or funky colours, you know you can find a pair that will brighten your child’s eyes. $75 and up at Uxbridge Shoe Repair, 36 Brock St. W.

A Bumping System Warning: The Clarion CZ302 may make your teen never want to leave their car. This intense stereo system is able to handle whatever music is played through it and has all the best features you could ask for. $168 at Audio Vision Plus, 5 Brock St. W.

...

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We are delighted to offer our community a safe, welcoming space to grow through the practice of yoga, TLKP[H[PVU HUK TPUKM\SULZZ 6\Y [LHT VM X\HSPÄLK L_WLYPLUJLK HUK JVTWHZZPVUH[L [LHJOLYZ ^PSS HZZPZ[ `V\ PU ÄUKPUN H WYHJ[PJL [OH[Z YPNO[ MVY `V\Y IVK` HUK TPUK Our offerings include: • Beginner yoga 1 & 2 • Drop in classes including gentle, ÅV^ and power yoga • Prenatal yoga, kids yoga, heated classes and more

• 7 day new student pass only $20 • Pilates & Thai yoga massage • Reiki treatments and private yoga • .PM[ JHYKZ HYL H]HPSHISL VUSPUL HUK H[ the studio For more information please call or visit our website:

www.radiantjoyyoga.com +V\NSHZ 9VHK <UP[ <_IYPKNL 65

(905) 852 6600

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s s ng se ie s

The All Purpose Docking Station This hefty iPod docking station will definitely get the job done when it comes to being loud. With a jack for multiple instruments, the bass-boosted speaker produces a rich, clean sound that any music lover will truly appreciate. Comes with a professional level microphone. $229.99 at The Source, 301 Toronto St. S.

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Contact us for a

Fitness

Terry & Sarah Terrion

69 Brock St., Upper Level Personal Training NRG 2 GO Bootcamp Group Cycling Fitness Classes Yoga / Zumba Nutrition Coaching

FREE

Fitness, Cycle or Yoga Class

al Trainer er, Person tness Cent ars!

Ye 3 r fo Voted #1 Fi Center & Wellness

info@nrg4lifefitness.net www.nrg4lifefitness.net

905-852-4750

Saturday, December, 1 4th Annual Past and Present Artisan Christmas Craft Show Vendors selling many gifts, including hand-painted gift ware and garden decor, folk art, jewellery and accessories, speciality candles and soaps, photographs, paintings, custom embroidery and more.

Time: 10 a.m. WHeRe: Uxbridge Historical Museum, 7239 Conc Road 6 and Brock St COnTACT: 905 852 5854

Christmas Open House Stop by for festive treats and refreshments and a balloon pop for a chance to win free jewellery, discounts or prizes of all sizes at Jeffrey Ross Jewellers. A festive family event to say thank you, Uxbridge. Free jewellery cleaning, photo session (with purchase or $30) and more.

Time: 10 a.m. WHeRe: 53 Toronto St. N., underneath the Tin Mill COnTACT: 905 852 2050 | dimples.me

Season’s Greetings

Pictures with Santa Bring your camera to get a pic with Santa in his hut! Also on Dec. 2, 8, 9, 15 & 16. Sponsored by the Uxbridge BIA.

Wishing all a safe and HAPPY HOLIDAY!

Monday Morning Singers Performing Antonio Vivaldi’s “Gloria” accompanied by organist Ian Sadler. Tickets $15 at Presents, Presents, Presents or at the door; children free.

from uxbridge community midwives

905 862 3535

w w w. u x b r i d g e m i d w i ve s . c o m 2 campbell drive, suite 207 , uxbridge

Time: Saturdays 10:30 to 12:30 p.m., Sundays 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. WHeRe: Canadian Tire, 327 Toronto St. S. COnTACT: www.uxbridgebia.ca

Time: 7:30 p.m. WHeRe: St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 65 Toronto St. S. COnTACT: www.mmsingers.org | 905 852 3693

Mark Twain’s ‘The Diary of Adam and Eve’ Proudly presented by On Stage Uxbridge. Produced, directed and starring Roger Varley and Dorothy Partridge.

Make it out for the last performance!

Time: 8 p.m. WHeRe: Uxbridge Music Hall, 16 Main St. S. COnTACT: www.onstageuxbridge.com

A Greenbank Christmas: Don Ross and Brooke Miller Get ready for a great night headlined by these musical sensations. These two are ‘two of the most accomplished acoustic artists in the world today’ (Afterdark.com), so it should be a show to remember.

Time: 8 p.m. WHeRe: Greenbank Centennial Hall, 19965 7 & 12 Hwy. COnTACT: 905 985 8351 | www.greenbankfolkmusic.ca

Sunday, December 2

Indoor Farmers Market Handmade crafts, baked goods and other foods that everyone is sure to love.

Time: 9 a.m. every Sunday until Christmas WHeRe: Uxbridge Arena, 291, Brock St. W. COnTACT: www.uxbridgefarmersmarket.ca

Monday, December 3

Christmas Card Making Mondays Show your loved ones and friends how much your care this winter season by giving them a handmade Christmas card, created by you! Each week new card designs are being featured so you’re sure to have variety this Christmas.

Time: 3 p.m. WHeRe: Uxbridge Youth Centre, Brock St. W. COnTACT: 905 862 3456

Friday, December 7

Light’n Up Laughter A great way to teach to build self-esteem, character, enhance your ability to deal with what life throws you, strengthen the family unit and of course to LAUGH! Come by yourself or bring the family.

Time: 7 p.m. Where: Community Martial Arts, 2 Campbell Dr., Suite 105 Contact: 1 888 LAF LOTS

Legion Christmas Turkey Roll Come out to the Legion for a good time with friends and if the chances are in your favour, you could win a turkey!

Time: 7:30 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Legion, 109 Franklin St. Contact: 905 852 5293

Open Mic Night Listen or feel free to bring your instrument or voice and perform! It’s a comfortable environment and there are only good vibes.

Men of Note Choir Come and enjoy the beautiful harmony brought to you by the voices of the Men of Note Choir. With a great mix of tenor, baritone and rich, resonant bass voices, it’s impossible to not leave with a smile on your face and happy ears.

Time: 7:30 p.m. Where: St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 59 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 852 7016 | www.stpauls-uxbridge.ca

Monday, December 10 Christmas Fun Join the library for holiday stories, games and a craft to take home. $3.50.

Time: 10:30 a.m. Where: Uxbridge Library, 9 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 852 9747 | www.uxlib.com

Tuesday, December 11 Drop-In Bowling Free bowling at and food at Parish Lanes. Bring your friends and family to start up a little bit of friendly competition.

Time: 5 p.m. Where: Meet at Uxbridge Youth Centre, 34 Brock St. W., then walking over to Parish Lanes, 69 Brock St. W. Contact: 905 862 3456 hayley@uxbridgeyouthcentre.com

Wednesday, December 12

Time: 6:30 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Youth Centre, 34 Brock St. W. Contact: 905 862 3456 www.uxbridgeyouthcentre.com

Diabetes Support Session Diabetes can be a stressful bump down the road for anyone who suffers from it. Join the Adult Diabetes Education Clinic to learn how to make it through the holidays.

Saturday, December 8

Time: 7-9 p.m. Where: 2 Campbell Dr., Suite 208 Contact: 905 852 9771 ex 5260

Precious Minds Poinsettia Sales Fundraiser Help raise money for community families who have children with learning barriers. All flowers are $25.

Time: 10 a.m. Where: Uxbridge Arena, 291 Brock St. W. Contact: 905 982 0882 | www.preciousminds.com

Kids Christmas Bird Count Children be led by a bird leader who will teach them how to properly use binoculars, identify different birds and more. Tickets available at Presents, Presents, Presents.

Time: 8:30 a.m. Where: Uxbridge Library,

Thursday, December 13 Fantasy of Lights Let the magic of Christmas take over as you wander through Elgin Park and admire the beautiful LED light displays and listen to music. Walk or drive. Free, but donations accepted. Until Dec. 31.

Time: 6:00 Where: Elgin Park Contact: www.uxbridgeoptimist.com

Friday, December 14 Youth Centre Masquerade Dance This free, fun event will leave your kids with tired feet and creative minds! Bring a mask and dance

the night away with all your friends.

Time: 7 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Youth Centre, 34 Brock St. W. Contact: 905 862 3456 www.uxbridgeyouthcentre.com

Aladdin Join Aladdin and Jasmine on their magical carpet ride! The favourite Disney musical will be on stage at the Uxbridge Music Hall for five shows: December 14 at 7:30 p.m., December 15 at 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and December 16 at 12 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale at Presents, Presents, Presents and at the door, for $13 and $16. time: 7:30 p.m. where: Uxbridge Music Hall Contact: 647-223-0749

Christmas Tapestry Let the Christmas spirit sink in as the beautiful One Voice singers serenade you. Tickets available at Presents, Presents, Presents or at the door.

community calendar

Time: 6-8 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Secondary School, 138 Planks Lane Contact: camps@town.uxbridge.on.ca

9 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 852 5432 | dconn50@powergate.ca

Time: Friday 7:30 p.m. Saturday 3 p.m.

Where: St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 59 Toronto St. S Contact: 905 852 7015

Saturday, December 15 Holly Jolly Jubilee Tons of activities for your kids,including pictures with Santa, exploring the boardwalk, crafts and much more!

Time: 10 a.m. Where: Wind Reach Farm, 312 Townline Rd, Ashburn Contact: 905 655 5827 | www.windreachfarm.org

Friday, December 21 Blood Donor Clinic Blood is in you to give, and you could save three people with a single donation.

Time: 1 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Senior Centre, 75 Marietta Rd Contact: 289 385 0155 | www.blood.ca

Print calendar listings are $25/each and free for current month’s advertisers. Submit your event for free to our online calendar at www.uxbridgetowntalk.com. Listings for the print calendar are due the 15th of the month.

We are not responsible for errors and omissions, and reserve the right to edit for space.

Keep up to date with our This Week in Uxbridge email newsletter! Sign up at www.uxbridgetowntalk.com/e-newsletter

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Indoor Walking Trail Has the frigid cold been keeping you indoors? Do you want to stay in shape and have a good time with friends?

Then don’t miss this opportunity! Indoor walking trail anyone can access. Drop in $2 or $25 for the season (until April 30). Mondays and Wednesdays.

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| q & a with santa |

by matthew burley

q & a with

We have a very special guest in this issue. I had the honour of interviewing the one and only Santa Claus! He managed to take some time out of his very busy schedule to fit in this quick Q & A. If you have any questions for Saint Nick or you just want to make sure your Christmas list makes it on time, then send him a letter to North Pole, H0H 0H0. He has his elves working overtime reading all the letters! Special thanks to John Wood for connecting us with the jolly man himself!

What’s the most stressful part of being Santa Claus?

When I see children misbehaving, fighting with their brothers and sisters, and not listening to their parents. I also don't like hearing about how badly treated some children are in other parts of the world. That makes me real sad because I love children so much!

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How do you manage to make it to so many houses in one night?

It's actually two nights! Where it's daytime in one part of the world, it's nighttime in another. I make great use of the different time zones around the world. We also have it timed that we don't spend too long on each house. Got to keep moving to make it to all our stops on time. Magic helps too!

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How do you keep track of who’s naughty and who’s nice?

In the old days, we used paper to write them all down. But that proved too time consuming and near impossible over the years due to the growing population of children. So now we use computers with real big hard drives.

What do you do for the rest of the year when you’re not making toys?

Preparing for next Christmas. People assume that I only work one day a year and that's not true! I may deliver presents one day a year, but there's a lot of work that goes into getting ready for the holidays!

How many elves live at the North Pole?

A lot of people don't realize that elves are real fast. Always moving around. So it's most difficult to keep track of them all. However to give you an idea on how many elves we have, when the sun sets in the North Pole, there are probably as many little elf toes under the blankets as there are stars in the night sky, if not more.

Is there anything you do to prepare for the big night? Special traditions, exercise, etc.

Yes! We do a warm up routine where we do stretches before leaving the North Pole so we're ready to do lots of lifting and moving.

Does Mrs. Claus play a big role at the North Pole?

Absolutely! She's a big help! Hands on. She loves to bake and supervise the elves while I'm gone. Makes sure everything is running smooth. I don't know what I'd do without her!

Ever had any close encounters with airplanes or other flying objects?

We have before. Came close a few times. But technology has gotten so advanced now. The sled is now equipped with radar and Global Positioning System so we can find our way around planes, other flying objects and get to our destinations safe and sound.

What’s your favourite type of cookie?

Chocolate chip. Can't go wrong with the classics!

With all the new technology coming out lately, have you upgraded your sleigh at all?

Well, besides the radar and GPS, we also have rockets put into the sleigh to make it go faster. Time is everything and we want to make sure all the nice kids get a present in time for Christmas.

How do the reindeer keep in shape for the Christmas season?

We have a reindeer boot camp that lets them play all the reindeer games. And yes, we do let Rudolph play. He's great at nighttime volleyball.

What’s your favourite country to deliver toys to?

Canada, of course! I love it there! The children as so friendly and polite over there. Especially in Uxbridge, Ontario. I love to see the warm smiles. I'm looking forward to visiting with them soon!

Looking to help others this holiday season? Our community is bursting with worthwhile charities that would love donations or your volunteer time - and they directly impact all of us locally. Here are just a few of our favourites.

The Uxbridge Cottage Hospital Auxiliary This active group raises monies, with the help of many volunteers, to maintain and purchase new equipment for our hospital. Since the group was formed in 1954 to bring the hospital to town, they have donated more than $2.2 million to the hospital and foundation. For more information and to donate, call 905 852 9771.

WindReach Farm With therapeutic horseback riding, accessible petting zoo, barns, paths, ponds, playground and more, this beautiful farm on 106 acres just outside Uxbridge is open year round for people with special needs. Visit www.windreachfarm.org to learn how you can help.

The New Animal Shelter for Uxbridge-Scugog A dedicated group of volunteers is working toward raising $1 million to build a new animal shelter for the two communities. Our current

stress-free holiday shopping

shelter is lacking potable water, adequate storage, room for cats and deals with yearly structural issues due to its locale on swampy land. Learn more at www.animal-shelter.ca.

The Uxbridge Youth Centre This thriving downtown facility has become a safe and fun mecca for youth, offering programs from photography, self esteem, craft and fitness workshops to helping bring a permanent skate park to the Township. Now, more than ever, they need the community's help to continue to offer high quality programming for youth 11-21. Visit www.uxbridgeyouthcentre.com or call 905 862 3456 for more info.

Salvation Army Uxbridge An essential service, the Salvation Army offers food and clothing assistance, counselling, tutoring for up to grade 8, referrals and an annual Christmas hamper and toy box program where you can adopt families for the holiday season. Call 905 852 0090 or email beverlynortheast@gmail.com for details.

Book Your Year End

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your community

by carly FoSTer

OF HEALTH & RELAXATION

5 Registered Massage Therapists Skin Care & Laser Hair Removal Infrared Sauna Yoga Classes

Your Healing Escape Awaits... follow us! (creeksidewell)

www.creeksidewellness.ca

like us!

Tin Mill, Upper Level 53 Toronto St., N 905.862.3777

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| charities |

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local products

| kids |

by matthew burley

It’s the most magical time of the year for our wee ones!

Here are some fun ideas for your good little boys and girls.

Not your Average Rocking Horse Your little cowpoke will love singing along with the Bull Rocking Rider, and parents will love the adjustable sounds. This soft plush toy will brighten your child’s day with its ‘I’m a rockin’ bull’ song and realistic features. $69.99 at TSC, 286 Toronto St. S.

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The Future of Toy Cars Automoblox are not your average toy cars. These intricate little toys are fully customizable and come in many different shapes, sizes and styles. Great for any car-loving toddler. $14.95 and up at Little Acorn, 77 Brock St. W

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Get ready for ‘Snacktivities’ The Potato Chip Science Book, written by A. Kurzweil and Son, is filled with 29 fun experiments that your aspiring scientist can perform. The book comes in a potato chip bag, and is bundled away with a dozen items that your child can use for ‘snacktivities’. $21.95 at Presents, Presents, Presents, 60 Brock St. W.

Kickin’ It Old School Bring back some old memories with PC Old Fashioned Handmade Candy Canes. Coming in a variety of flavors including butterscotch, gingerbread, cinnamon and more, these 8 inch candy canes are a definite stocking stuffer! $2.99 at Zerhs, 323 Toronto St. S.

Tactical Table Tennis Ever been craving a game of Ping Pong but you didn’t have the proper equipment?

With Anywhere Table Tennis, this will never happen again. With the ability to adjust to almost any table, this versatile product makes a great gift to any Ping Pong fan. $19.99 at Canadian Tire, 327 Toronto St. S.

by matthew burley & carly foster

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing like some sparkle at Chrismas!

The Fresh Prince Mostly made up of brass, these Frederick Prince necklaces and bracelets are ornamented with genuine natural stones in various shapes and colours reminiscent of the period; while the geometric lines and varied lengths reflect 21st century tastes. $29 and up at Sue Sue Boutique. 19 Brock St. W.

Ball of Love This unique handmade ball is a symbol of friendship, with no beginning and no end.

Notice how the colours swirl together and accent each other just like friends do? Make a special someone sparkle with this surprise gift. $16.99 at Whimsical Lion Country Market, 24 Toronto St. N.

local prodcuts

| gifts with bling |

Unearth the Gift of Time With features such as rose gold accents, a wonderful tortoise shell strap, and crystal number, how could you resist this gorgeous Fossil watch? Not only does it tell time, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great addition to any wardrobe and brings some class and style to everyday life. $125 at Rutledge Jewellers, 82 Brock St. W.

For that Special Someone Put a little sparkle under the tree this year with this breath taking ring! This ring features a stunning 4.23ct emerald cut Morganite.

The gem is set off by the modern design of the ring and is accented by a number of small diamonds. The ring is 14K white gold.

This is guaranteed to make her Christmas. $2,250 at Jeffery Ross Jewellers, 53 Toronto St. N. Uxbridge (Lower Lever, Tin Mill)

Even Napkins Deserve Gifts Keep your napkins in order this holiday season with one of these flashy napkin rings. Easy to store when not in use and always a success at the dinner table. $9 at the Passionate Cook, 68 Brock St. W.

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Liquid Bling The reviews say this 1995 vintage bottle of Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin La Grande Dame Brut champagne has "a very pale, fine lemon-gold hue dotted with a very sparse but moderate sized bead." All we know is that it's almost as old as our co-op student and costs more than a month's worth of groceries so it's gotta be fantabulous. $649 available by special order at the LCBO, 2B Welwood Dr.

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| chocolate peanut balls |

adapted from Elana’s pantry | By carly foster

utt kitchen

The holidays are a tough time of year when you're on a lifestyle change and weight loss journey. It's the end of November as I write this, and even walking the grocery store - with its huge displays of chocolate, candy and cookies - is a battle, and we haven't even hit the real party season yet. To help fight temptation, here is an easy, gluten-free, raw, no-bake recipe that is as efficient as it is delicious. For more healthy holiday treats, explore www.cleaneatingmag and www.elanaspantry.com.

Ingredients

Directions

1/2 cup dates, pitted 1 c roasted peanuts 2 tbs cacao powder 1/2 tsp Celtic sea salt 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 tbs water

1. Place dates, peanuts, cacao powder, salt, vanilla and water in a food processor 2. Pulse on high speed until smooth 3. Remove mixture from food processor and roll into little balls 4. Serve and enjoy!

Visit Zehrs for holiday

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sure to impress your guests.

Fouée Filled With Tarragon Chicken Salad 3 cups diced cooked chicken 1/2 cup finely diced celery 1tbsp finely chopped PC® Chives 1tbsp finely chopped PC® Tarragon 3/4 cup PC® Mayonnaise 1tbsp PC® Old Fashioned Dijon Mustard 1tsp fresh lemon juice 1pkg PC® Fouée 10 slices English cucumber cut on diagonal In a large bowl, stir together chicken, celery, chives, tarragon, mayonnaise, mustard and lemon juice. Cut each fouée in half and fill with chicken mixture. Insert a cucumber slice into each pocket.

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Top

1. H 2. B 3. H 4. P PC® Fruit and Cheese Phyllo Pastry Hors D'Oeuvre Collection.

Our elegant new fruit and cheese hors d'oeuvres demand to be served first!

Going Gluten-Free? Then head over to the bakery department for 905 852 1212 323 Toronto St. S, Uxbridge

We’ web you who

delicious new products from PC! Try PC Gluten-Free muffins, cookies, cake loaves, two-bite brownies & white bread.

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Season s ' greetings brand development | websites | graphic design | printing | social media wishing

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NEW LOOK for the NEW YEAR There’s no better time for a fresh new look then the New Year.

2013 is almost here. How are you ringing it in?

We think your New Year’s resolution should be to rebrand and market your business and that’s one resolution that’s easy to keep with Sweet World Media’s help.

We’re pros at Full Circle Marketing - cohesive matching design carried from print to web to social media. Let us help you get a professional brand carried throughout all your marketing avenues. Set yourself apart in your consumer’s eyes and show them who you really are.

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Season’s greetings and happy holidays from Sweet World Media!

It’s been a great 2012, and we hope you’ve all enjoyed many happy and fun memories with family and friends. Have you been thinking about your resolutions? Or perhaps you’ve already started planning your next vacation.

Whatever it is, we wish you all the best in the future and until then, we’ll be counting down to 2013 and a brand new year!

See you then!

Carly, Holly, Matthew, Marvin & Jason

Top 8 Reasons why Branding is so Important | from www.hubze.com 1. Helps distinguish you from competitors 2. Branding means communication 3. Helps you establish a reputation 4. Promotes customer loyalty

5. Easier for you to introduce a new product 6. Insulates you in time of crisis 7. Helps win consumer’s purchasing decisions 8. Helps with product recall

COMING IN 2013 | BRAND AUDITS An assessment of your business and what it says about you. Find out how your potential customers see you.

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