Volume 5 | Issue 10 | December 2013
uxbridge town talk
osteopathy | triple 1 goal | little acorn’s guide to toy buying | gift of time
The Uxbridge BIA invites you to become a home-town tourist! explore the shops in Uxbridge. discover globally sourced products. shop locally for brand names & holiday gifts. dine out at a local restaurant or relax during a hair or spa treatment & THINK LOCAL FIRST!
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Bring this in to receive 905-852-0444 Wine Kitz Uxbridge 28 Toronto St. South, Unit 4
off
This certificate has no cash value and cannot be used in combination with any other coupon. Valid at Uxbridge location only until February 28, 2014. Coupon valid with purchase of any regular priced wine kit made in-store only.
A night to
with
A great Christmas Gift!
Colin Mochrie
Enjoy a night out with Colin Mochrie as he Improvs the Classics! Interviewed by fellow funny-man Neil Crone Where: Wooden Sticks Golf Club, Uxbridge When: Tuesday, February 4, 2014 at 7pm
$35 ticket includes a signed copy of Not QUITE the Classics ($25 value)& light refreshments
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Tickets available at Blue Heron Books 62 Brock St. W.,905-852-4282
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CONSIDER US FOR YOUR HOSPITALITY NEEDS corporate/office party family & friend gatherings catering private chef at home sweet shop holiday orders
905.852.5050 路 4 Toronto Street North, Uxbridge 路 urbanpantry.ca
contents
volume 5 | issue 10 | december 2013
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Town Talk Tidbits Festive Facts Youthful Notions Triple 1 Goal! Faces of Uxbridge S. Thomas Bailey Historically Speaking Elgin Pond: Part 2 of 2 Community Calendar December
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Peacefully Productive Gift of Time Spotlight On You Chirstine Chown Guest Column Little Acorn’s Guide to Toy Buying Your Community Local Living UTT Kitchen Marshmallow Social Tea & Crispy Crunch
Community Calendar December Con’t
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STAFF Managing Editor: Elaine Leigh Graphic Designer: Holly Myers Sales Manager: Sandi Leigh
COVER PHOTO 578foot | 123rf.com
CONTRIBUTORS Elizabeth Brooke Acton Darrin Davis Hayden Prince Susan Fumerton Cindy Wood Jen Thorson Julia Zubkova facebook.com/uxbridgetowntalk
Feeling Fine Osteopathy
CONTACT US Phone: 905 862 3747 Email: info@uxbridgetowntalk.com www.uxbridgetowntalk.com MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 1035, Uxbridge ON L9P 1N3 OFFICE ADDRESS 24 Toronto St. N., Unit 4 Uxbridge, ON LNP 1E6 twitter.com/uxtowntalk
The best of 2014 to you all.
- town talk team Pick up copies at: Zehrs, Blue Heron Books, Township Office, Uxbridge and Zephyr libraries, Vince’s Market 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 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 or omissions, print or otherwise, in submitted ads. No part of this publication, including advertisements, may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. Copyright © Sweet World Media 2009-2013
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.
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The month of December is an incredibly busy one for most of us. With shopping, entertaining and just generally having fun. I have always loved Christmas and the festivities involved. What other time of year do we make an effort to spend good fun times with our family? Whether your family lives close or far, we seem to accomplish the impossible and make some kind of family connection. I am lucky enough to have my family close and will spend as much time as I can, enjoying their company. From our train rides, to our family-baking day, with ages ranging from 2 – 85, proves to be messy, loud and fantastic. It takes me hours to mop up the flour, but for some reason it is ok, only at Christmas. There are many faces of the holidays and many celebrations, from Christmas to Hanukkah… etc. all seem to bring together families. Many of us are lucky enough to have plenty of family around us to make our festivities fun and happy. However, I cannot talk about the holidays without remembering those who are not as lucky as we are. Our life is a blessing, but what about the families that are not as fortunate, the Moms or Dads who struggle every day just for a meal? We can help these families; we can donate to the local food bank, give a toy to the toy drive or buy a meal for the local homeless person that we walk past daily. We can make a big difference with a little effort. There are also the families that we cannot make a difference with, but wish we could. Those that are alone, or those who may have lost some family members. Can we help, probably not but we can make every effort to remember them at the most difficult time of year. Try talking about their loved one, or just giving them a hug. Often we shy away from what we find difficult to talk about, lets try to make it about them and do what we can to be sensitive. In conclusion the Holidays are about happiness for some of us, but for others it is lonely and scary. I for one will do my best to make someone smile, whether to give them a gift, a cup of coffee or even a smile. We at Uxbridge Town Talk wish you all a safe and happy holiday season, and hope everyone sees an opportunity to make a difference. One small gesture can give someone a lifetime of gratitude.
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town talk tidbits
| festive facts |
SOURCED FROM WWW.FUNOLOGY.COM
The first Christmas was celebrated on December 25, AD 336 in Rome.
The poinsettia, a traditional Christmas flower, originally grew in Mexico, where it is also known as the ‘Flower of the Holy Night’. Joel Poinsett first brought it to America in 1829.
In Syria, Christmas gifts are distributed by one of the Wise Men’s camels. The gift-giving camel is said to have been the smallest one in the Wise Men’s caravan. One town in Indiana is called Santa Claus. There is also a Santa, Idaho.
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Artificial Christmas trees have outsold real ones since 1991.
“Silent Night” was first sung as part of a church service in Austria. A guitar was used because the church organ was so badly rusted it couldn’t be played.
When visiting Finland, Santa leaves his sleigh behind and rides on a goat named Ukko. Finnish folklore has it that Ukko is made of straw, but is strong enough to carry Santa Claus anyway.
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Christmas Crackers were invented around 1846 by Tom Smith who developed them for Christmas from the French habit of wrapping sugared almonds in twists of paper as gifts.
There are 364 gifts mentioned in “The Twelve Days of Christmas”.
St. Nicholas was bishop of the Turkish town of Myra in the early 4th century. The Dutch first made him into a Christmas gift-giver, and Dutch settlers brought him to America where his name eventually became the familiar Santa Claus. America’s official national Christmas tree is located in King’s Canyon National Park in California. The tree, a giant sequoia called the “General Grant Tree”, is over 90 meters (300 feet) high, and was made the official Christmas tree in 1925. Alabama was the first state to recognize Christmas as an official holiday, and the tradition began in 1836.
In Armenia, the traditional Christmas Eve meal consists of fried fish, lettuce and spinach. The province of Nova Scotia leads the world in exporting lobster, wild blueberries, and Christmas trees. Roast turkey did not appear consistently on royal Christmas Day menus until 1851 when it replaced roast swan. The medieval dish of Boar’s head remained popular with Royals for much longer. Electric Christmas lights were first used in 1854. The holiday Boxing day was originally celebrated in England,for the servants to the rich people. After Christmas,the servants “boxed up” all the left-overs from the rich people and brought them home.
Season’s
Greetings We at Uxbridge Town Talk and Sweet World Media wish to thank you for all your support in 2013.
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BY HAYDEN PRINCE
Back in September I had no idea what our food bank name was or if we even had one. I thought that not many kids knew about our food bank, so that made me want to raise awareness and donations for our food bank. I saw a YouTube video on an event they do in Wisconsin almost the same event idea, but its for profit…K. After that I thought, hey I should organize that for non-profit! I thought about my goal and wrote it down. 100 people participating to raise $1,000 and 1,000 food items donated, my Triple 1 Goal! When I first started it was crazy. It was 24/7 working, this taught me how adults must feel! (I am not looking forward to it… L). When I started the event I literally had 3 week’s until the event day. Next to do was speak to town council, I put a powerpoint presentation together and went and presented. I was so scared I was shaking the whole time and almost froze! I must have done OK, because a person from the audience came up and gave me $50 donation and said I believe in you! But that was just the beginning… After getting approval from council I had to build a website (www.shooting 4food.com), advertise and get sponsors. I had already made a website on movie making (www.legend movieproductions.com), So I knew the basics to it. So then I needed advertising. My uncle Christian Papist is a graphic designer so he sponsored me by creating the poster for free! So I had the poster’s and the website, but how was I suppose to get the word out? After all I need 100 people out. I decided to see if I could present
to the schools! My vice-principal Mrs. Dejong helped me and got in touch with the other schools. So I had to make a quick presentation. When I first presented IT WAS SCARY, but as always, you get used to it! So then I had the people, but what about the cash? I need 1 grand man! So I went for sponsors. I went to Williamson Motors, The UPS Store, Canadian Tire, The Bonner Boys, McDonalds, Staples, Toronto Air Soft and Vinces for sponsorship and they all sponsored me! So then it was on to the event set-up… I originally had the event booked for Elgin Park but insurance costs were $5000! So Ed at Uxbridge shooting sport’s stepped up to the plate and said “You can host it here for free and we will pay for the insurance!!!” They even donated $250 from the club and their members raised another $250. Thank you Uxbridge shooting sports! Since it was a 5 hour event we needed food… So we bought Fruit, Chips, pop you know the drill. So we had everything, but then it was game time. We got 98 people and 2 dog’s out reaching the 100 people out (technically L). We raised 650 for item’s reaching 65% of that goal. And last, but most! WE RAISED $2010 DOING 201% OF THAT GOAL! Everyone was asking if this will become an annual event. Mr. Holder, The President of Uxbridge Shooting Sports, said they would be honoured to have us back next year. So it looks like this is now an annual event and next year I am going to double my goal!
youthful notions
| the triple 1 goal! |
Hayden Prince currently attends Joseph Gould Public school. He is in grade 7 and is a safety ranger (staying after hours to help the kindergartens). His major interests are The Arts, Technology, Camping and Airsoft. He is a green belt in karate and a member of the Roxy Kids. Hayden also raised $182 for the Uxbridge-Scugog animal shelter in June.
xbridge T hank YoRu VUOTING US FO
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Happy Holidays from the whole team!
Visit our Newly Renovated Showroom
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faces of uxbridge
| s. thomas bailey |
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BY ELAINE LEIGH
This month, Faces of Uxbridge focuses on an interesting man with a passion for history, he also happens to be a published and an award-winning author. His novels The Gauntlet Runner and Shades of Death: The Gauntlet Runner II are part of a series about the French and Indian War of North America. S. Thomas Bailey (Steve) was fascinating to interview and his passion for writing was ever present. Steve’s writing, categorized as Historical Fiction, is strongly based on historical facts that he himself has researched. He beams when he shares his latest accomplishment, being honoured with the “Readers Favorite” award, a Writers Digest selfpublished book award. As we talked about his stories Steve was quick to point out that he is careful to be Historically accurate.
Steve began writing after the birth of his daughter Madison. With a growing family Steve and his wife Maria made the decision that he would stay home with Madison. This gave him the opportunity to pursue historical writing, which was strongly influenced by his own family history. He has a grandfather of Mi’kmaq descent and ties to surveyor James Cook. Steve’s writing has taken his entire family on a journey to research, learn and understand the lineage of their family tree. I enjoyed listening to Steve talk about how his daughter and son Kennedy dress up in period attire and visit shows like the 18th Century Fair in Maryland and the Gettysburg History meets the Arts Festival - an amazing and educational experience for them all. Our conversation takes us to his collection of interesting and authentically reproduced historical tools. I have shared some photographs with you, but to be able to see the tools in person was amazing. Reproduced with Historical accuracy and attention to detail, they are very intricate.
The other and equally interesting side to Steve is his passion for the needs of his kids. He openly talks about daughter Madison who has Down Syndrome, her love of sports and her participation in the Special Olympics. His son Kennedy plays baseball, swims and is an avid golfer. We talked about the Uxbridge Fairway Drivers Program, a Golf program he and his wife Maria Borges established for special needs kids. Maria and Steve are both avid golfers and wanted to share their passion and skill. Through this fantastic program kids build confidence, and improve their skills all while enjoying the outdoors. Steve’s work is not as well known in Uxbridge, and Canada as it is in the United States. His work is great and makes for an interesting read, I encourage you to take a look. Steve’s next book is due to be released in January, focusing on year three of the “French and Indian War”. I’m sure it will prove to be an interesting continuation of his Historical Fiction novels and I look forward to reading it. You can contact Steve at: www.thegauntletrunner1754.com
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, three grandchildren and plenty of photo opportunities in Uxbridge, life’s been busy but fun!
What people are saying about the books: “After reading “The Gauntlet Runner”, I had to read “Shades of Death”. The first book brought back memories of the days when I use to rush home after school to watch ma favourite television series, “Daniel Boone”. I must say, these books are so well written that anyone who loves history and the American frontier will be truly mesmerized by Mr. Bailey’s books.”
WRAP UP YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING AT TIN CUP CAFFE Tin Cup Caffe is proud to offer a variety of products just in time for the holiday season. From beautifully wrapped gift boxes of chocolate to the very popular Holiday Tins, Rogers’ Chocolates is perfect for giving. 100% Canadian and world famous, Rogers’ Chocolates makes a sweet gift.
86 Brock St. W. | 905 862 3500
Premium gourmet loose leaf tea is perfect for the tea lover on your shopping list. Select from a wide range of blends, including green and black tea, as well as herbal teas. Available in 25 or 30 gram resealable bags.
The Good Old Days (Swimming Scene at Elgin Pond). Photograph detail of paintings by local artist Peter Moore, reproduced with artist’s permission.
In
1870 a waterworks pump was established at Gould’s mill, and was connected to a system of mains and hydrants for emergency use by the fire brigade. In 1911 the Town of Uxbridge bought the defunct Quaker Oat Company property and mill equipment to provide a source for domestic water supply for residents. By 1921 there were two miles of water mains in town, and 21 hydrants with water supplied by Elgin Pond. Uxbridge residents began connecting water lines to the mains to bring water into their homes where it was stored upstairs, often in an attic tank. Not only did the pond supply water for drinking and bathing, but it also provided ice in the winter months. Ice was cut from Elgin pond for use in iceboxes (in the days before electric refrigeration). Swimming, fishing and skating were popular activities at Elgin Pond. In 1931 a swimming area was created and separate bathing houses were built for boys and girls. In 1945, the addition of a new diving board, 30-foot pier and (some) supervision of the dock area by the Uxbridge Recreation Committee made the pond the ideal
swimming spot. In the 1950’s swim classes began to be held at the pond under the direction of Joyce Bradbury. My mother was a lifeguard at Elgin Pond during the sixties, and she even met my Dad while working at the Pond. However, once Uxpool opened its doors in the early seventies, swimming lessons were moved to the pool. With the removal of the dock from the pond, pollution concerns and A Photograph of my mom, Christine conservation regulations preventActon (Williams), lifeguarding at Elgin ing alterations to the natural Pond, where she met my Dad. watershed, leading to the demise of a “beach “ area, Elgin Pond’s swimming years drew to a close. Elgin Pond has always been a fishing destination and at different times has been stocked with fish - in 1932 25,000 Trout were stocked in the pond. Since 1992, Elgin Pond has been stocked with Trout
Sunday Afternoon on Elgin Pond (Skating Scene on Elgin Pond). Photograph detail of paintings by local artist Peter Moore, reproduced with artist’s permission.
In Uxbridge November 30 (after parade) and December 1
in his Santa Hut at:
Branching Out/Coffee Time parkette
1:30 - 3:30 EACH DAY *Please bring your own camera.
December 7 & 8 | December 14 & 15 | December 21 & 22
in his Santa Hut at:
Branching Out/Coffee Time parkette
SATURDAYS: 10:30-12:30 | SUNDAYS 12:30- 2:30 *Please bring your own camera.
for the ever-popular Huck Finn Fishing Derby, which kicks off with a parade, followed by a free lunch. Elgin Pond was at one time home to the Optimist Club of Uxbridge’s Duck Derby lottery, which is now held in Centennial Park, and the Sink Old Man Winter lottery, which is no longer run. As with other bodies of water, Elgin Park has been the site of several tragedies over the years, including a double drowning in the winter of 1887. It occurred late one Monday evening after a meeting of the Royal Templar’s. According to the local newspaper “a clear sheet of smooth ice presented too tempting for Fred Gould and William Pedrick of Uxbridge, and they skated off in the best of spirits to the far end of the pond. Messrs Spence and Morley who had passed the men on their way to the pond, raced back when they heard the men’s screams for help. They could see no trace of the boys except a slight ripple in the water.” Skating continues to be a popular pastime on Elgin Pond. As UTT first reported back in 2011, Paul Mateciuk (Uxbridge’s “Iceman”), clears the snow with his orange Kubota, checks the thickness of the ice, and floods the surface for the enjoyment of figure skaters and hockey players alike. But before you dash off to skate on Elgin Pond this winter, ensure that the ice has been checked, and Mateciuk has raised the yellow “skate with caution” flag. If you see a red flag, that means the ice is not safe to skate.
Born and raised in Uxbridge Ontario, Elizabeth is a busy mom of 2 trying to carve out a life-work balance. She is selfproclaimed social-media enthusiasts. gourmand, voracious reader and wanna-be writer.
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…
BY ELIZABETH BROOKE ACTON
historically speaking
| elgin pond: part 2 of 2 |
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| december community calendar |
community calendar
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 Brunch with Santa Santa is in town for brunch and a meet & greet! Enjoy a delicious assortment of freshly prepared dishes, including muffins, omelets, buttermilk waffles, scrambled eggs, shrimp, smoked salmon, turkey, salads, roast beef, fresh fruit, cakes and pastries and much more. Please call for more information. Reservations Required. Time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Where: Wooden Sticks Golf Club, 40 Elgin Park Dr. Contact: 905 852 4379
Uxbridge Farmers Market Christmas Sale Fresh Produce, maple syrup, honey, baking, crafts, jewellery, gift items, jam and jelly. Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Arena Hall, 291 Brock St. W. Contact: 905 473 5713
Monday Morning Singers Christmas Concert Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols. Tickets $15.00 at Presents, Presents Time: 3 - 5 p.m. Where: St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 65 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 852 3693 www.mmsingers.org
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4
Community Soup Lunch Donate as you are able to support the Loaves and Fishes Foodbank, and North House. The lunches are provided by North House, local churches and community groups. All Ages Time: 12 - 1:30 p.m. Where: St. Andrew’s Chalmers Presbyterian Church, 40B Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 852 6262
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
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St. Joe’s Christmas Marketplace Come to our marketplace and shop for the holidays. Local artisans, handmade goodies, toys, gourmet delights, women’s accessories,
905.852.4750
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 Jewellery Sale Includes Jewellery and Accessories (purses, scarves, belts, etc.) Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Where: Upstairs Chances Are, 20 Bascom St.
Merry Little Christmas A delightful evening of carols & holiday songs. Join us for gourmet coffee and desserts Tickets: $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Time: 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Baptist Church, 231 Brock St. W. Contact: 905 852 3662
Arriba Linea Alpacas Annual Christmas Sale! Beautiful Alpaca Products available: Hats, Mitts, Scarves, Socks, Duvets, Throws, Yarn and much more! Also taking place Sunday, December 8th.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8
Time: 6:30 p.m. Where: Hospital Front Lawn, 4 Campbell Dr. Contact: 905 852 9771 ext 5286
house
Time: Friday: 5 - 9 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Where: St Joseph’s catholic school, 25 Quaker Village Dr.
Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Where: Arriba Linea Alpacas, 755 Sandford Rd. Contact: 905 862 0222 www.arribalinea.com
Festival of Lights Everyone welcome. Admission free.
open
candles, skin care and so much more. Kids get your photo taken with Santa on Saturday from 10 - 2 p.m. All proceeds to benefit yard improvement at St Joe’s! Also taking place Saturday, December 7th. Free entry.
Buffet Brunch Enjoy a delicious assortment of freshly prepared dishes, including muffins, omelets, buttermilk waffles, scrambled eggs, shrimp, smoked salmon, turkey, salads, roast beef, fresh fruit, cakes and pastries and much more! Reservations Required. Also taking place December 15 & 22. Time: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Where: Wooden Sticks Golf Club, 40 Elgin Park Dr. Contact: 905 852 4379 www.woodensticks.com
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 Maud’s Christmas at the Manse Open House Everyone is welcome to Maud’s Christmas at the Manse Open House. Tour the beautifully decorated manse to a background of Christmas music. View traditional
Please join us at NRG 4 Life Dec. 7th & Jan. 4th 1:30 to 3:30pm Friends and family welcome!
Refreshments, prizes and a sneak peak at facility plans & new membership options!
69 Brock St., Upper Level “Strengthening Uxbridge One Person at a Time.”
www.nrg4lifefitness.net info@nrg4lifefitness.net HERE WE GROW AGAIN! TECHNOLOGY SQUARE JAN. ‘14
craft ideas and enjoy Christmas cookies and cider. Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Where: Leaskdale Manse, 11909 Regional Rd. 1 Contact: 905 852 5284
Christmas Church Service & Carol Sing Join us for a Christmas Church Service and Carol Sing. Our service will focus on The Importance of Family and Community. Don’t forget to visit and tour the festively decorated manse before or after the service for Christmas music, traditional craft ideas and cookies and cider. Time: 1 - 2 p.m. Where: Historic Leaskdale Church, 11850 Regional Rd. 1 Contact: 905 852 5284
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve Service at Goodwood United Church Join us for an informal yet traditional candlelight service. All the carols you sang as a child and lots of fun as well. All are welcome. This has become a family tradition for many local families. Why not make it one of yours? Time: 7 - 8 p.m. Where: Goodwood United Church, 3999 Front St. Contact: 905 640 1781
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26 Boxing Day Darts Come out and join us for darts on Boxing day. Everyone is welcome. Lunch will be available at the Branch. You don’t have to be a member to join in on the fun. Visitors are always welcome. Time: 1 - 4 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Legion, 109 Franklin St. Contact: 905 852 5293
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31 Mayor’s Family Skate & Car Draw Please come and join us at the Uxbridge Arena and Community Centre for a free family skate! As well as the announcement for the winner of Uxbridge’s BIA Win a Car contest! Time: 5:15 - 7:15 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Arena, 291 Brock St.
Living Nativity Experience the Joy of that First Christmas. An outdoor re-creation of the Christmas story complete with narration, authentic costumes & live animals. 2 presentations each evening. Takes place Friday, December 20th, Saturday, December 21st & Sunday, December 22nd. Time: 7:30 p.m. & 8:15 p.m. Where: Centennial Park, Uxbridge Contact: 905 852 3662
Santa Rides the York-Durham Heritage Railway We have received news from the North Pole that Santa will be riding our trains departing from the Uxbridge station! Check our website for specific dates and times. Each trip lasts approximately 1 hour and has on-board entertainment for children of all ages. Santa will be visiting each child at their seat and distributing goodies to each. Seating is limited and by reservation only so Santa Claus fans should reserve early so they won’t be disappointed. Where: York-Durham Heritage Railway, 19 Railway St. Contact: www.ydhr.ca
Art Rocks the Studio The Blue Heron Studio is an ever-changing showcase for local artists. This Series of Fortunate (art) Events is a chance to get a head start on the Christmas season. Saturday Afternoons 1 – 5 p.m. Dec 1 - Steel Art & Stone Sculpture (10am – 5pm) Dec 7 & 8 - BHAM Art Show & Sale Dec 14 – 22 - Handmade in Uxbridge Holiday Sale
RED OnStage Uxbridge’s first play of the season is RED, an intense bio-drama. The play explores the question, ‘What is art?.Several students are creating six Rothko inspired paintings that will be displayed in the Music Hall and sold through a silent auction during the run of the play. All proceeds from the sale of the paintings will be given to the Uxbridge Youth Centre to purchase art supplies. Time: Thursday December 5, 6 & 7 at 8:00 p.m. and Saturday December 7th at 3:00 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Music Hall, 16 Main St. S. Contact: redtheplay@powergate.ca
Auditions for Mousetrap Regarded as a
premiere example of the murder-mystery genre, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap is rife with memorable characters. Contact the director Samantha Smilovic, 905 259 2054 or samstag@hotmail.com, to book an audition time. Auditions will be held at St Paul’s Leaskdale Church on Tuesday December 10 at 7 p.m. and Saturday December 14 at 3 p.m.
ticipating businesses will display an orange ‘Keep Calm Seniors Day Here’ sign. Stop by to discover special Seniors promotions, sale items, in-store guests, a demonstration, a free activity or a Seniors discount. For information, please call 905 852 9181 x 406
Uxbridge BIA Seniors Day Seniors are encouraged to come shop, dine & explore Uxbridge each Tuesday. On Tuesday, par-
Hospital Auxiliary “Chances Are” Store on Bascom Street accepting good fall and winter clothing. Proceeds to Cottage Hospital.
Mind Matters Mental health is becoming a large topic of interest these days, but are We Three Spies The one hour performance youth receiving enough information about includes a cast/chorus of 25 local children it? Mind Matters is a monthly program that ages 6-16, touring to raise awareness, supaims to equip youth with a more in-depth port and child sponsorship for St. Stephen’s knowledge and awareness of mental health Children’s Home in Kenya. Children are matters. As most youth turn to their friends invited to be part of the production by attend- in times of crisis, it is essential to offer helping a free song/choreography workshop ing strategies. No registration required. prior to the performance. Dates are: Sat. Dec. Time: 4 p.m. Last Tuesday of Every Month. Where: Uxbridge Youth Centre, 34 Brock St. W. 14th at Trinity United Church – Workshop at 3:30 pm, Performance at 7 pm and Sun. Dec. Contact: 905 862 3456 15th at Uxbridge Baptist Church – Workshop Legion Bingo Come out and enjoy Bingo at 3:30 pm, Performance at 6:30 pm. If your Thursdays at the Uxbridge Legion. $1200 child (Gr 1-8) would like to be part of this in prizes to be awarded. Must be at least 19 great opportunity, please contact Jennifer years of age. Doors Open 6:30 p.m. Bingo Wilson (pjwilson@zing-net.ca) starts at 7:30 p.m. Optimist Fantasy of Lights Join us between December 12th and 31st from 6 p.m. to 9:30 Legion Euchre Every Friday night at the Uxbridge Legion. Game starts at 7:30 p.m. p. m. each night as we illuminate Uxbridge’s Come out and join us for some fun - you Elgin Park with beautiful displays created don’t have to be a member, visitors always by business, clubs and other organizations welcome. in Uxbridge. Take a magical walk or drive through the twinkling lights and let the spirit the River Think church isn’t for you? Explore of the holidays warm your heart. Our grand your spirituality. Come to “the River”, a new opening event will take place on Dec 14th at family-oriented service at St. Paul’s Anglican 6 p.m. Admission is free but the Optimists Church, 59 Toronto Street South. Doors open will gratefully receive donations to continue at 4 p.m. for children’s activities, refreshtheir work with the youth of Uxbridge. ments and networking. Service with singable contemporary music from 5-6 p.m. For Vandermeer Winter Fundraiser Event information, please call 905 852 7016. With Christmas right around the corner, we have once again partnered with Vandermeer Taoist Tai Chi Includes a gentle set of moveNursery’s. Decorate your home, office or purchase for loved ones by ordering a beauti- ments that promote well-being for people of ful selection of flowers. A portion of proceeds all ages and in all conditions. Beginner class: from each purchase is donated to MS Society every Friday 9-10 a.m. Continuous class: every Friday 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Canada, Durham Regional Chapter to supWhere: Uxbridge Seniors Centre, 75 Marietta St. port our community programming. Contact Contact: 905 852 2587 kailey.oneill@mssociety.ca for information.
Uxbridge Community Midwives
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REGULAR EVENTS
www.uxbridgemidwives.com | 2 campbell drive, suite 207
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we wish you a
MERRY CHRISTMAS
peace · love · memories
SEASON’S GREETINGS TO ALL
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peacefully productive
| gift of time |
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BY DARRIN DAVIS
Winter is my favourite time of year for making things. I love cozying up by the fireplace and writing rootsy heartbreak songs. I don’t have the nagging thought that I’m ‘missing out on the gorgeous summer weather’ when I’m in the studio working on a painting, and there’s snow falling paperly outside my window. Winter makes it a little easier to hunker down and get to work. It’s also the time of year when I start thinking about what new gadget I ‘need’ as a Christmas gift, that will take my music and art to the next level. A guitar looper? A fancy easel? That hot new vocal mic, that will surely make my gravelley, pitchy baritone sound like Bublé at Massey Hall? I was reminded of this during a recent songwriting trip to Nashville. After a writers workshop, I met a guy who I will call ‘Danny’, not because I fear he’ll ever travel to Uxbridge from his hometown of Maryland, and read this article. I just really like the name Danny. Seems like everyone in Nashville is friendly and open, and conversations start effortlessly. Danny sat beside me, and asked the ubiquitous question in that town: ‘Are you a songwriter?’ We started discussing writing, and Danny instantly steered the conversation towards gear. Seeing I had an iPad, he asked what songwriting apps I used. I mentioned the 2 or 3 that I have. A guitar tuner, a rhyming dictionary app, etc. He told me about the NINE apps he uses. He was surprised I was even able to work at all without some of them. I started feeling a bit out-matched. He then asked what guitars (plural) I used. He listed his many multiplethousand dollar six-strings. Followed by the plethora of different mics he owns. He then asked about my humble home studio. Again, he put me to shame with all his STUFF. He was spending two weeks in Nashville, ‘scoping out the scene.’ I was only there for a week. Further proof of his superior commitment to the craft. Then a strange thing happened. I asked him for a business card, so I could check out his website, and hear some of his songs. Danny got awfully quiet (for once). “Well, I don’t have any songs online yet...” It turns out our gearhead hero Danny, on a two week writers retreat in the songwriting Capitol of the world, with countless dollars invested in tools to make him a better songwriter, HAS NEVER WRITTEN A SONG. That isn’t a typo. Not one song. I’ve got tons of ideas recorded in GarageBand on my iPhone, and lots of chord progressions I’ve recorded in my home studio... And Danny isn’t alone. This sense that buying some new tool is going to instantly make you a better artist is widespread. They say people like Danny have bad GAS. (Gear Acquisition Syndrome). Any photographer who’s taken shots in public will know what I’m talking about. There’s always that one uncle at the wedding who needs to know every last detail of your kit. Because THAT’S what makes the photos artistic and beautiful, right? Certainly not the photographer... I fall into this trap all the time. I could fill many fancy Moleskine notebooks with my ‘if only’ lists. But one thing I’ve learned the hard way is that THINGS don’t make you a better artist. Very rarely has anything I’ve bought produced the magical change that I told myself it would. Once that initial shine wears off, all my old demons
circle, unslayed. There are still days I have to painfully drag myself out to the studio to write or record, even though a couple years ago I told myself that all I needed to skyrocket my career was a separate space to create music. Don’t get me wrong - I’m all for commitment to your craft, and having tools that inspire you is undeniably important. If you have an old beater guitar that won’t stay in tune, you’re never going to want to write a song with it. But tools need to be put to use. If you need firewood for the winter, and you live in the woods, you should probably get a good axe, right? But if that axe just sits in your spacious, decked out, temperature controlled workshop, the rest of your home will soon be covered in ice. You still need to get out there and chop away. So this holiday season, instead of drooling over catalogues of things that promise to make you the artist you know you can be, why not give yourself the gift of some TIME to actually work on your craft, with all the tools and gadgets you’ve already got. And unlike that flashy tie or Coach purse you’re craving under the tree, it won’t look embarrassingly outdated in 5 years. Have an awesome December, and I’ll see you in 2014. PS- don’t take this article to mean that I’m not going to purchase that incredible, life-changing 1963 Gibson J-45 guitar I fell in love with last week. Not buying it would be an insult to the artist in me... Darrin Davis is a professional Singer/Songwriter, Painter, Photographer and Creativity Coach. The CEO of Peacefully Productive Inc, Darrin lives in the wildwood splendor of Uxbridge, Ontario with his lovely wife Amy and his incorrigible puppy Dublin. (All 3 are relentless Blue Jays fans.) www.reverbnation.com/thedarrindavisband www.etsy.com/shop/crazyuncleart
BIA CAR DRAW DATE: Dec 31st at Uxbridge Arena - 5:00 p.m. (Mayor's Family Skate 5:15-7:15p.m.) JOIN US!
2013 DODGE DART or $10,000
Ballots available at participating Uxbridge BIA businesses.
See Christine’s paintings at Blue Heron Books (62 Brock St. W.) for the month of December and featured at the Blue Heron Studio until December 9 or visit her Show/Sale of Paintings from December 1st to January 31st at Pear Tree Restaurant (507 Parliament Street, Toronto).
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During many years of drawing and painting, I have depicted images of what I can see. Recently, I have decided to explore the territory of non-objective images.......dividing two-dimensional spaces into shapes, textures and colours. This is a journey which is baffling and exciting at the same time. I do hope the viewer enjoys the results as well.
spotlight on you
| christine chown |
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guest column
| little acorn’s guide to toy buying |
BY SUSAN FUMERTON
Why should I buy toys at Christmas? We all worry that we buy too many toys for our kids during the holidays. Yet, toys are tools that help children learn about themselves and the world around them, Play is critical to the healthy growth and development of children. As children play, they learn to get along with others, solve problems and develop the fine and gross motor skills. Children at all ages learn by playing, exploring and imagining. Developmentally appropriate toys teach socialization, creativity, improve imaginative and cognitive thinking. Children feel such a sense of accomplishment when they figure out how a toy works and that they can do it! What should I look for when choosing a toy? Parents have an important role in choosing good toys. If you look on toy packaging that contains a developmental toy, the box will actually name the benefits of the toy. For example, some will say one or more of these skill sets: improves hand/eye coordination, develops fine motor skill, and helps your child learn basic colors shape and letters.
Is the toy affordable? Will it help nurture childhood? Can the child use the toy by themselves? Does the product help the child express emotions, experience care and concern for others? Practice positive social interaction? Is there any violence or sexism associated with the toy? What toy is appropriate for my child’s age? 0-1 years A baby learns about their surrounds by using all five senses. A child this age is also learning cause and effect. Toys in this age group may enjoy include: mobiles and safety mirrors, rattles, stacking toys, pop up toys, picture books, musical and squeeze toys, swings and teething toys. 1 to 3 years A toddler moves around in the environment a lot! A strong interest is manipulating objects and problem solving. eg. Push and pull toys, ride-ons, simple puzzles, shape sorters, movement games, large beads, blocks crayons, markers and clay 3 to 5 years Children at this age love to be around other children and sharing many activities. Ideas: Dress up with accessories, puppets, threading beads, simple board games, puzzles (24 pieces) 6 to 9 A school age child seeks out new information, experiences and challenges in play. Great ideas could include: Sports equipment, bicycles, craft kits, board games coordination and memory games, building and construction sets. 9 to 12 Pre teens are independent and thrive on social play with other children: try board games, jigsaw puzzles, and model /science kits
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How do I play with the toy with my child? Parents are their children’s first and best playmates. Join in your child’s play by observing, following their direction and being creative….and relive the feelings you had as a child with your favourite toy!
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Be aware of your child’s interests and abilities as not all children enjoy the same type of play. Also, we know that children are sometimes prone to fads. Many of the trendy toys will be played with briefly and then pushed aside. It is hard to tell Santa that they always aren’t the best choice. You might ask yourselves the following question before buying toys this year Is the toy appropriate for their age, skills and abilities? Will it hold the child’s interest? Is it safe? How durable is it? Is it non toxic? Does the toy stimulate creativity, help teach communication skills, or practice eye hand coordination?
offering
the best selection of brand name
modern cloth diapers
phone: 416
518 8529
address: 1 Millbury Rd. Uxbridge
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“Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand.” – Albert Einstein Susan Fumerton is the parent of four children, previously an educator with the Durham board, aba therapist and foster parent. Little Acorn is an extension of our love of children with the thought in mind to further enrich their lives.
Dr. Connie Yong & Associates
FREE WHITENING with a complete exam and cleaning
905-862-2228 www.wavedental.ca
8-307 Toronto St. S, Uxbridge
Operation Warm Hearts is thrilled to support local families! For the 14th year, Operation Warm Hearts (OWH) is fulfilling its mission to help families manage with affordable outerwear. Uxbridge Public School again supported OWH by allowing us to hold the event in their gym on Saturday November 2, 2013. Our community generously donated almost 500 coats to bring the 14 year total to 5440 coats that have come back to the community and many shelters and agencies such as children’s aid. Our community donated $760
for 185 coats that were taken home. The remaining coats have gone to grateful local organizations. This event is made even more special with the eager support of the Roxy Kids to help set up, handle and clean up all the winterwear. We are also thankful for the kind support of the Rotary Club to provide coat racks for the sale. Wash Worx Laundromat was a drop off location for the coats and laundered all of the coats, please support this local business. We couldn’t do it without their countless hours of cleaning of the coats. Again, Maggie McCreath organized the event for which we all are so thankful for her tireless efforts.
Festival of Lights - Celebrating 22 Years! December 4, 2013 marks the 22nd Anniversary of the Uxbridge Cottage Hospital Foundation’s Festival of Lights. This event has grown over the years and continues to be a favorite for families and friends of the Uxbridge Hospital. If you have never been to Festival of Lights, we encourage you to attend this year. Everyone is welcome. There is “no charge” to attend and parking is free. Of course, UCH Foundation relies on donations to fund equipment, renovations and special projects at the Uxbridge Hospital so your gift no matter how big or small is always greatly appreciated. A donation box will be located in the Hospital front lobby during the event.
This year we will have a limited amount of Christmas tree ornaments for sale at a cost of $10 each as well as our Festival of Lights collector pins for $5 each. The event will include the usual format with opening ceremonies beginning at 6:30 p.m. Complimentary apple cider, hot chocolate and cookies will be available and we will close out the night with a fabulous fireworks display and Santa. If you have any questions or require further information, please contact: Jo-Anne Gray Executive Director UCH Foundation 905-852-9771 ext. 5286. 4 Campbell Drive P.O. Box 5003 Uxbridge, ON L9P 1S4 Spies”. The one hour performance includes a cast/chorus of 25 local children ages 6-16, touring Haliburton, Cannington, Newmarket and Uxbridge, to raise awareness, support and child sponsorship for St. Stephen’s Children’s Home in Kenya. Children from the community are invited to be part of the production by attending a free song/choreography workshop immediately prior to the performance. Dates for Uxbridge are: Sat. Dec. 14th at Trinity United Church – Workshop at 3:30 pm, Performance at 7 pm AND Sun. Dec. 15th at Uxbridge Baptist Church – Workshop at 3:30 pm, Performance at 6:30 pm. A light supper will be provided for workshop participants. If your child (Gr 1-8) would like to be part of this great opportunity, please contact Jennifer Wilson (pjwilson@zing-net.ca).
Angel Healing
readings, energy healing and workshops. Serving Durham and surrounding area
905 982 2741
h e l p i n g y o u i d e n t i f y a n g e l s t h a t a re g u i d i n g a n d s u p p o r t i n g y o u .
w w w. s p i r i t - c o u n s e l o r. c o m
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We Three Spies The Uxbridge and surrounding communities are invited to join us for the travelling children’s Christmas musical entitled “We Three
Michele Lindsay Co-founder, Operation Warm Hearts 416-452-1869
your community
| local living |
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| marshmallow social teas |
BY CINDY WOOD
utt kitchen
These were a staple at my grandmother, Elsie Woods, house. I spent a number of afternoons at her house making cookies and squares.
Ingredients 1 cup white sugar 1 cup soft butter 2 eggs mixed not beaten 2 cups of mini marshmallows 1/2 box of social tea cookies
Cindy Wood Broker Remax All-Stars Realty Inc., Brokerage
Directions
1
Mix sugar, butter and eggs in a double broiler on low heat until thick - don’t boil.
| crispy crunch |
2
Cool slightly and mix in marshmallows and social tea cookies.
3
Press into a buttered 8” square pan.
4
Cool completely in fridge and cut into squares.
BY OMAJEN’S KITCHEN
Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a cookie sheet with non-stick spray. Put one layer of saltine crackers on cookie sheet, making sure to cover pan completely. Combine ¾ c. butter with ¾ c. brown sugar in a sauce pan. Bring to a boil and continue
to boil for 2- 2 ½ minutes. Remove from heat and pour over crackers. Spread evenly. Sprinkle ¾ c. sliced almonds OR ¾ c. crushed candy canes on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Turn the oven off. Pour about 1 ½ c. of semi-sweet chocolate
chips over almonds/ candy canes and return to oven until the chocolate is melted (about 4 minutes). Once melted, spread the chocolate evenly over the top (hint: do not lift the spoon while doing this). Cool or refrigerate KITCHEN overnight and then cut Cooking Classes for Kids or break into pieces, www.omajenskitchen.com and enjoy!
Whole Home Surge Protectors Starting at $300
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Wishing everyone a
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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! Panel Upgrade Starting at $700 We Do Hot Tub & Pool Hookups
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Osteopathy addresses all the symptoms of common cold or flu like symptoms through treatment using a number of techniques, including soft tissue massage, muscle stretching, joint mobilisation and articulation or cranial osteopathy. The osteopath’s ultimate goal of treatment is to: • • Keep those germs under control by giving your immune system a boost with Osteopathy! It’s that time of year again, the flu season. Boosting your immunity is the key in staying healthy during the cold and flu season. With the aid of Osteopathy the body will be guided to function optimally and may help a person’s nervous system and thereby enhance a person’s immune system. The strength of your immune system is an important factor in your vulnerability to cold and flu. Osteopathy provides the person reserves of energy and building blocks for repair, when needed, and further, improves immune function and response for the prevention of disease in general. Children and the elderly are at the highest risk. It is important to exercise regularly, maintain a healthy diet, and vaccinations are highly encouraged by medical professionals. Osteopathy can aid in the fight against flu season. Osteopathy addresses the whole body and it increase vitality. This is achieved by freeing restrictions within joints and muscles, thereby affecting posture and mobility. This helps to remove any blockage or restriction to the blood circulation and assists in lymph drainage, a vital component to staying healthy. With Osteopathy our bodies receive nutrition and oxygen as well as lymph drainage and removal of waste to increases the vitality. The musculoskeletal system, it is the largest system of the body. It has profound effects on all of our other body systems. The importance of this relationship between structure and function has now been realized in the recent neuro-immunology research studies that have shown the relationship between the immune system and the nervous system. The individual reserves their energy and building blocks for repair, when needed, and further, improves immune function and response for the prevention of disease in general.
• •
stimulate blood circulation to improve the immune function and response increase venous and lymphatic drainage and therefore decrease congestion and support the innate self-regulating healing processes of the body address joint restrictions in the spine to normalise function of the nervous system which reduces muscle tension and promotes mucus thinning decrease muscle spasm and pain
If you have a cold or any family member is prone to flu and seasonal cold symptoms, consider making an appointment with an osteopath. Using the techniques and approaches mentioned, we can really help to strengthen the immune system and assist the body to fight the cold and flu and help make a speedier recovery. “Natural forces within us are the true healers of disease”. - Hippocrates Julia graduated as a Doctor of Homeopathic medicine and Science from the Canadian College of Homeopathic medicine in 1998. Her numerous years in her career as a doctor of Homeopathy brought her to seek other alternative methods of treatment and diagnosis. Julia studied Osteopathy at the National Academy of Osteopathy in Toronto. She believes the body functions as a whole and in treating the whole individual rather than the disease. Julia continues to study postgraduate courses in Osteopathy and is presently enrolled at the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMSS) and is studying towards a DO, doctor of osteopathy degree. She is presently at a part time private practice at Creekside Wellness in Uxbridge Ontario.
CHRISTMAS DÉCOR & UNIQUE GIFTS Offering custom wreaths, garland, baskets & more! GET IN TOUCH: 905 862 3747 24 TORONTO ST. N. UNIT 4, UXBRIDGE, ON L9P 1E6
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feeling fine
BY JULIA ZUBKOVA
SUNFLOWER COTTAGE 905-852-3002 · 175 Brock St. W. at Cedar Street, Uxbridge
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| osteopathy |
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From my family to yours Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
Cindy Wood Broker
Re/max All-Stars Realty Inc., Brokerage 47 Brock St. W. Uxbridge, ON, L9P 1N5 Office: 905 852 6143 Fax: 905 852 5696
www.cindywood.ca