June Issue

Volume 5 | Issue 4 | June 2013

uxbridge town talk

golf courses | an artist ’s journey | summer food safety | massage therapy

contents

volume 5 | issue 4 | june 2013

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June is the month where we all seem to come alive! Gone are the ice, snow and wind (Finally!). We are getting outside to cycle, walk, garden and swim… what a fantastic time of year!

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Town Talk Tidbits Tidbits & Water Safety In Uxbridge Golf Courses

Peacefully Productive An Artist’s Journey Spotlight On You Darrin Davis

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

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

CONTRIBUTORS Elizabeth Brooke Acton Jasmine Mathews Darrin Davis Sarah Matheson Susan Fumerton

MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 1035, Uxbridge ON L9P 1N3

Faces of Uxbridge Jacob Mantle Historically Speaking The hollow Surrounded by the hill Community Calendar June Community Calendar Con’t...

Guest Column Child’s Play Your Community heritage Train & Skate Park UTT Kitchen Salad, Lemonade & Food Safety Feeling Fine Massage Therapy

OFFICE ADDRESS 24 Toronto St. N., Unit 4 Uxbridge, ON L9P 1E6

The concept of “Dad” is not always obvious; sometimes Dad can be a mentor, a teacher, a family friend, and sometimes Dad is really Mom struggling to fill both roles. Always though, Dad is the person who teaches you life lessons, some small, like how to throw a ball, swing a golf club or play hockey, and some big lessons about respect, loyalty and even how to listen. Fathers in every form influence us all, so make sure you tell your Dad how special he is.

I hope all of the dads out there enjoy Father’s Day, whether you spend it golfing with friends, playing baseball at the family barbecue or just hanging out at home in your sweats. however you choose to spend your Father’s Day, have fun!

Pick up copies at: Zehrs, Blue Heron Books, Township Office, Uxbridge and Zephyr libraries, 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 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.

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.

COVER PHOTO aniramphoto | www.123rf.com facebook.com/uxbridgetowntalk

June is also the month where we celebrate Father’s Day, which, much like Mother’s Day, is a huge celebration in our family. There have been men in my life that have influenced and helped shape me to make me who I am, and that helped me grow in incredible ways.

Some of the great men that I am lucky to have had in my life are my Dad, a character, who taught me to dream, my Father-in-law, a true gentleman who always made me feel special, and my husband who is an amazing father and friend.

twitter.com/uxtowntalk

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| june tidbits | town talk tidbits

What does Father’s Day mean to kids?

It’s no secret that kids have an innocence and honesty that can sometimes make you laugh.

We found 2 great quotes depicting a child’s view of Father’s Day and what it means to be a Dad. “It’s just like Mother’s Day only you don’t spend so much.” - Unknown “A father is a guy who has snapshots in his wallet where his money used to be.” - Unknown Here are some other great quotes about Dad! “Any man can be a Father but it takes someone special to be a dad.” - Anne Geddes “My father taught me to work; he did not teach me to love it.” - Abraham Lincoln “Sometimes the poorest man leaves his children the richest inheritance.” - Ruth E. Renkel “A truly rich man is one whose children run into his arms when his hands are empty.” - Unknown “By the time a man realizes that maybe his father was right, he usually has a son who thinks he’s wrong.” Charles Wadsworth

| water safety tips |

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The Origin of Father’s day The idea of a special day to honor fathers

Fun June Finds • Benjamin Franklin discovered electricity June 15, 1752 • Marilyn Munro was born June 1st 1926 • The first baseball game was played June 19, 1845 • The First Day of summer is June 21st • June 1st is the start of the Atlantic hurricane Season

and celebrate fatherhood was introduced from the United States. There, a woman called Sonora Smart Dodd was inspired by the American Mother’s Day celebrations to plan a day to honor fathers. In the USA, Father’s Day has been celebrated in June since 1910. The celebrations in the United Kingdom and other countries are thought to have been inspired by the American custom of Father’s Day. This is in contrast to Mother’s Day, which has a very different history in the United States and the United Kingdom.

by elaine leigh

With the summer weather finally here, I thought this would be the perfect time to remind everyone about water safety. here are a few facts and tips to ensure that we all have a safe and happy summer: The Lifesaving Society reports that since 2004, Drowning incidents are on the rise.

The Canadian Red Cross has found that children aged 1 to 4, and men aged 15 to 44 are at the highest risk of Drowning.

Children can disappear from sight quickly, and can drown in

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only a few centimeters of water.

Alcohol is often a factor for men aged 15 to 44; diving into water when combined with alcohol, affects depth perception and awareness.

• While at the cottage remember that small children can easily slip or fall on a dock. A rule at our cottage is that children must wear a life jacket when they are on the dock (it is safer and more relaxing for all of us with this rule).

• When at the beach remember that what seems to be a shallow and safe beach can change in depth quickly, surprising both children and adults.

• Always make safety a priority whether you are in a Mr. Turtle pool, your backyard pool, at the beach, or on a boat - always keep kids in view and keep everyone safe. have a happy summer and stay safe with these tips!

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We invite you to become part of our independent, glossy, full-colour, local magazine serving Uxbridge Township.

We print 5,500 copies each month, and direct mail 5,000 via Canada Post. This ensures that Uxbridge Town Talk is delivered directly to our readers. The balance are left in key locations around Uxbridge Township, including grocery stores, libraries, municipal office and high-traffic stores downtown.

Ask us about our multi-month discounts

While the modern game of golf originated in 15th century Scotland, the game’s ancient origins are unclear and much debated. Some historians trace the sport back to the Roman game of paganica, in which participants used a bent stick to hit a stuffed leather ball. Whatever the origins, it’s no secret that golf has steadily grown in popularity and Uxbridge is home to 3 terrific public courses (listed below in no particular order).

Mill Run Golf Club 269 Durham Rd. 8 Uxbridge, Ontario L9P 1R1 Phone: 905 852 6212 www.golfmillrun.com

Wooden Sticks Golf Inc. 40 Elgin Park Dr. Uxbridge, Ontario L9P 1N2 Phone: 905 852 4379 www.woodensticks.com

in uxbridge

public golf courses in uxbridge |

Foxbridge Golf 228 Brock St. E. Uxbridge, ON L9P 1R3 Phone: 905 852 7962 www.foxbridgegolf.ca

Did You Know? | SOURCED FROM www.10-facts-about.com • • • •

The first golf balls used in the 16th century are believed to have been made out of wood.

About 25% of the golfers in the world are women.

The first official golf rules were established in Edinburgh by the Gentleman Golfers of Leith.

The first ever recorded hole-in-one was made in 1868 by Tom Morris at the Open Championship in Prestwick, Scotland.

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The longest putt ever was as long as 114 meters.

The number of dimples on a golf ball is either 336 for an American ball or 330 for a British ball.

The chances of making two holes-in-one in a round of golf are one in 67 million.

The word caddy comes from the French word for student, cadet, which is pronounced cad-DAY.

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by elaine leigh

Jacob Mantle is a familiar face that many of you have met at various events in town, but also a man that the majority of you voted for. For this month’s “Faces of Uxbridge” I chose to focus on Jacob Mantle and his contributions to Uxbridge, his ambition and accomplishments at such a young age.

Although Jacob Mantle is a seventh generation resident, he is the first in the family to enter into politics. he is committed to Uxbridge and to the difficult job of keeping the small town feel in our rapidly changing, ever-growing world.

After graduating from Queens University with his BAh in political Science, Jacob began his career working in Queens Park for Provincial Parliament member John O’Toole. he now works for Ontario Member of Parliament Erin O’Toole in addition to representing Uxbridge as a councillor for Ward 4.

I had the pleasure of chatting with Jacob, and we talked about the challenges he has faced as a councillor, and a young one at that, representing Uxbridge. “I have to work twice as hard and be twice as professional”. his professionalism was certainly evident in our discussion. We also talked about his extensive involvement in our community; the following paragraphs are some of the many projects Jacob has been involved in, all of which indicate the level of his commitment to Uxbridge and his aspirations for the town’s future.

One of Jacob’s first tasks was to develop an active presence in Social Media and on the internet. Jacob uses Social Media to optimize his effectiveness in, and for the community. As one of the few councillors online, he found it challenging at first (many councillors are cautious and hesitant with today’s “Information highway” and the internet’s ability to generate negative press). Jacob is now actively available on Facebook, Twitter or via his website. his commitment to Uxbridge’s youth is strongly apparent through his involvement with the new skateboard park. Jacob has been instrumental in giving the youth a voice, and encouraging their involvement in the development and design of the park. he is also quick to point out that without the volunteers, and financial support, this project could not have been executed.

Jacob’s passion for the environment and sustainability became very clear during our chat and we discussed his involvement in

ge•la•to /jə’lӓtõ/

Noun An Italian-style ice cream Hours: Monday-Saturday 11-10; Sunday 11-9

TOP: the Uxbridge Skatepark Committee LEFT: Mp erin O’toole, pinball Clemens and Jacob Mantle at the Uxbridge Music hall RIGHT: the watershed Commitee at a tree planting event

several environmental projects, but one in particular, the Uxbridge Watershed Advisory Committee. The WAC recently led the “Watershed Walk”, an educational walk where residents had the opportunity to see Uxbridge’s involvement in sustaining our waterways. Jacob is also actively involved in tree planting efforts. he was also enthusiastic about energy efficiency, explaining a few projects that make a huge difference, when we can commit to an energy efficient lifestyle. We talked about the arena retrofit project (think energy efficient bulbs) and future projects that will help put Uxbridge on the path to sustainability.

I could go on and on about all the great contributions Jacob has made to this community, and all the great projects he is involved with for the future. One thing I do know, Jacob is here to stay, and I suspect he will be strong advocate for his constituents in Uxbridge with his forward thinking. as a new 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!

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faces of uxbridge

| jacob mantle |

Brock St.

…they decided to see for themselves and after weeks of travel, they made plans to bring their families to live in Canada in the hollow surrounded by the hills. “They travelled with great difficulty and hardship, facing Indians, bears, wolves and wild cats.” (Nicholls). Who were they?

They were the first settlers – with family names like Collins, Chapman, hughes, James, and Gould to name a few. They belonged to the Society of Friends or “Quakers” and they were of Pennsylvania Dutch origin. They arrived in Uxbridge during the great land rush of 1804-1807, coming by way of Yonge Street in Newmarket. Uxbridge Township was surveyed in the winter of 1804-1805, and at this time only 8 settlers received free land grants, 6 of those settlers were Quakers (UhC).

They arrived in covered wagons, led by oxen, greeted with a dense forest of pine trees and cedars, a mere swamp with two streams flowing through. They were confronted with the great task of clearing the land, before they could set about tilling for agricultural preparation.

The hills and the hollows were cleared; saw and gristmills were built and roads were made to transport lumber. While the district was opening up, a village developed at the base of the hills; logs

by eliZabeth bROOKe aCtOn

could easily be brought into the valley and put through the mills.

Sometimes there was friction between the settlers and the tribes that claimed first stake on the land, but the village at the hollow surrounded by the hills continued to grow. The settlers were eager to show the Mississaga’s, who were hunting and trapping in the area, that the hollow had more potential. however, the buzz and noise created by the mill machinery was driving the game away, and as such the Mississaga’s gradually retreated to Lake Scugog, although some tribes remained in the area.

Dr. Beswick, builder of the first saw and gristmill, sold the mill to Joseph Collins, who completed them in 1809. The same year the Quaker Meeting house was built, the first place of public worship in the area.

Jonathan and Rachel Gould settled in the area around this same time. They gave birth to son Joseph, on December 29th, 1808.

Uxbridge, at this time still nameless, continued to grow. In 1826 JP Plank had built a tavern and saw mill. The tavern was the first public house of entertainment north of Kingston rd. In 1828 Plank built a store, which he rented to Carleton Lynde – the first merchant in the district.

historically speaking

the hollow surrounded by the hills: the settlement of uxbridge, part 2 of 2

our Enter to win

In 1832 Joseph Gould purchased the mill from JP Plank and the village took on a new life. The village life and activity centered around Gould’s new mill, the Gould’s contributed significantly to the development of the town) and the village adopted the name “Gouldville” (Moore).

So when did Uxbridge become Uxbridge? As is customary in naming practices, places were named according to landscape features, nature of settlement and even the people or tribe living in the area.

Uxbridge is thought to have been originally named “Oxbridge”, after an ox-led wagon was forced of course by a creek: The driver of the covered wagon was unable to get across the creek, so he put his yoke of oxen side by side in the creek, then placed timbers across their backs. he then had another yoke of oxen pull the load across the backs of the ox-bridge he had assembled.

This improvised bridge provided the idea for the name “Oxbridge”. Either through poor pronunciation, or through the discovery that there was an “Uxbridge” in England, the new version of the name stuck and became the name of our town when Incorporated in 1885. born and raised in Uxbridge, Ontario, elizabeth is a busy mom of 2 trying to carve out a life-work balance. She is self-proclaimed social-media enthusiast, gourmand, voracious reader and wanna-be writer.

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

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D RWAdR raw PAY IT FO

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| june community calendar | community calendar

SATURDAY, JUNE 1 Scavenger Hunt and Geocaching Enjoy the museum village and grounds in this fun outdoor program. Participants will play fun scavenger games with maps and directions, learn how to use an outdoor GPS navigator, and participate in a geo-cache hunt around the museum grounds using their new navigation skills. Bring a picnic lunch. Pre-register.

Ages 7-11. $10. time: 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. where: Uxbridge historical Centre, 7239 Conc. Rd. 6 Contact: 905 852 5854 www.uxbridgehistoricalcentre.com

Past and Presents 4th Annual Artisan Spring Show Featuring handpainted giftware, garden decor, woodturning, folk art, jewellery, specialty candles, soaps, photography, preserves and much more! time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. where: Uxbridge historical Centre, 7239 Conc. Rd. 6

43rd Annual Tour of Homes Join us throughout the rolling countryside of Uxbridge Township. Unique architectural homes open to the public for this self guided tour.

Old, new, contemporary, French Chateau and quaint styles will pique the interest of both men and women. Proceeds support worthwhile outreach programs both locally and regionally of Trinity United Church. Tickets $18.00 in advance at Shoppers Drug Mart or $20.00 day of tour at the homes. time: 12 - 5 p.m. where: various locations Contact: 905 852 6213 www.trinityuxbridge.com

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E-waste & Bottle Drive help Scouts, help the environment by dropping off your EWaste and Beer, Wine & Spirit bottles. The money raised will be used to send Scouts to the 2013 Canadian Jamboree in Sylvan Lake, AB.

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time: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. where: 168 brock St. w.

Contact: www.1stuxbridge.ca

BBQ Demo Days at Cobra Fire Place & Grills Come watch a demonstration of the best way to barbecue food. A variety of tasty foods will be available to sample with big savings on all barbecue grills. Learn from the best how to keep the sizzle in your steak. time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. where: Cobra, hwy 47 Contact: 905 640 6557

SUNDAY, JUNE 2 Canadian Armed Forces on the Railway The York-Durham heritage Railway would like to honour our Canadian Forces members, both active troops and cherished veterans, by offering them a free ride on this special day.

Celebrated every year on the first Sunday of June, Canadian Forces Day offers an opportunity for Canadians to recognize CF members’ contributions to peace and security at home and abroad. Canadian Forces Day is a chance for you to show your pride for the Canadian Forces. time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. where: york-Durham heritage Railway, 19 Railway St. Contact: www.ydhr.ca

FRIDAY, JUNE 7 Relay for Life North Durham The Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life is an all-night fundraising event to celebrate the lives of those who are living with cancer, remember loved ones lost to cancer, and fight back against the disease. Relay For Life is a lifechanging experience. Funds raised through Relay For Life help the Society: prevent cancer, fund research to outsmart cancer, empower, inform and support Canadians living with cancer and advocate for public policies to improve the health of Canadians. Sign up your team, raise funds or donate. time: 7 p.m. - 7 a.m. where: elgin park, 180 Main St. S. Contact: durham@ontario.cancer.ca

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

Uxbridge Optimist Duck Derby Each spring the Optimist Club of Uxbridge hosts the hottest lottery in Town; the Duck Derby.

It’s a fun filled day for ages 0 to 100. Food, drinks and all the activities are free. Activities include pony rides, face painting, balloon bouncers, live entertainment and much more.

And of course, who could forget the 3000 ducks racing down the river. All the funds raised stay in our town. time: 1 - 4 p.m. where: Centennial park Contact: www.uxbridgeduckderby.com

The Bonner Boys Splash Pad Car Draw Tickets for the event are $100 per couple.

Tickets enter you in for a chance to win a 2013 Jeep, along with an additional $7000 in cash and prizes. Tickets also give you admittance into the dance with a live band, buffet dinner, and cash bar. All proceeds will go toward the Bonner Boys Splash Pad Opening in June. where: Uxbridge arena, 291 brock St. w.

Contact: 905 852 1374

Water Safety Day hosted by the East Gwillimbury York Regional Police Centre volunteers and the Canadian Red Cross Society.

Drop by for general water safety information, including proper Personal Floatation Device fitting demonstrations. Bring the kids out to meet the Canadian Red Cross Society and York Regional Police mascots, Buckles and Bucky the Beaver. Free Admission. time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. where: Rail yard wake park, hwy. 48 and Queensville Side Rd. Contact: 1 866 876 5423 ext. 2945

Music for the Moraine A fundraising event for the Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust.

Uxbridge’s own Darrin Davis Band will open the show. The second set of the evening will feature Canadian Country Music Association multiple Award winning Wendell Ferguson.

Tickets are available at $30 each from Blue heron Books, 62 Brock St. W., Uxbridge, or you can call the Land Trust office 905-8333171 ext 30 to reserve by credit card.

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SUNDAY, JUNE 9 EMS Day on the Railways The York-Durham heritage Railway would like to honour our EMS members by offering them free ride on this special day. Emergency services are organizations like Police, Fire and Ambulance which ensure public safety and health by responding to all types of emergencies.

Aside from their heroic day-to-day duties, all of these folks engage in community awareness and prevention programs to help the public avoid, detect and report emergencies effectively. time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. where: york-Durham heritage Railway, 19 Railway St. Contact: www.ydhr.ca

SATURDAY, JUNE 15 Uxbridge Midwives Annual Potluck Picnic Looking forward to seeing all our previous and present clients and families to share food, fun and friendship. time: 1 - 3 p.m. where: elgin park, 180 Main St. S. Contact: 905 962 3535

Discovering Your Family Tree workshop for youth Learn all about discovering your family’s history, and how to create a family tree. Participants will use their discoveries to create an artistic family tree collage on canvas to bring home. Bring a picnic lunch.

Pre-register. Ages 10-14. $15. time: 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. where: Uxbridge historical Centre, 7239 Conc. Rd. 6 Contact: 905 852 5854 www.uxbridgehistoricalcentre.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 16 Father’s Day on the Railways Right across North America, June 16th is the day that fathers are honoured. What better way than

to take them for a trip on the York-Durham heritage Railway. To make things better still the railway has a special offer on that day, Dads ride for half price, when accompanied by their children.

12:30 p.m. followed by a 2 p.m. shotgun start. All Proceeds to the New Animal Shelter for Uxbridge-Scugog. Tickets available at Pet Valu in Uxbridge or Port Perry or register online.

time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. where: york-Durham heritage Railway, 19 Railway St. Contact: www.ydhr.ca

time: 11 a.m. where: Oakridge golf Club, Contact: www.animal-shelter.ca

REGULAR EVENTS FRIDAY, JUNE 21 Uxbridge Secondary School Reunion Join USS as they celebrate there 90th reunion.

Register now to avoid disappointment. time: various time - June 21, 22 & 23 where: USS, 127 planks lane Contact: 905 852 3005 www.uss90.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 22 Summer Solstice Strawberry Social and Garden Tour Treat yourself to fresh local strawberries and homemade short cake. A beverage is included. Then enjoy a tour of the national historic site. Take in a garden tour to one of the most beautiful gardens in Durham. time: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. where: 11850 Regional Rd. 1, leaskdale Contact: 905 852 5284 www.lucymaudmontgomery.ca

Uxbridge Skate Park Grand Opening Come celebrate the opening of the Township of Uxbridge’s newest recreational facility.

Bring your bike, scooter or skateboard.

Prizes, barbeque and teams. time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. where: Uxbridge Kennedy Fields, 732 ball Rd. Contact: www.skateparknow.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 27 “In The Ruff ” Golf Tournament Come and join us for a day of golfing, food, and prizes! $125 per golfer which includes registration, driving range, lunch, dinner, and a cart for the day. Registration and the driving range open at 11 a.m. with lunch being served at

uxbridge community midwives

Annual Potluck Picnic We are looking forward to seeing all of our past and present clients and families to share food, fun & friendship.

Taking place Saturday, June 15 at Elgin Park from 1-3 pm 905 962 3535 uxbridgemidwives.com

Freemasonry: A History Hidden in Plain Sight Come and tour this exciting new travelling exhibit which relates the history of Freemasonry and its influence on society today. The museum has partnered with Masons from Uxbridge’s Zeredatha Lodge to bring this exhibit to Uxbridge. The exhibit is open from Wednesday to Sunday and holidays from 10am to 4pm. Regular admission rates apply. Please contact the museum to prebook group tours. where: Uxbridge historical Centre, 7239 Conc. Rd. 6 Contact: 905 852 5854 www.uxbridgehistoricalcentre.com

Fridays at the Foster A different concert each Friday. Admission is donation at the door. A free draw at the end of the month. where: the thomas Foster Memorial, 9449 Conc. 7

Footloose: The Musical Don’t miss this explosive musical presented by Uxbridge Youth Theatre. Tickets available at Presents, Presents, Presents - 60 Brock St. W. $20.00 Adults and $15.00 Students.

Taking place: May 23 to May 25 at 7:30 p.m.

May 30 to June 1 at 7:30 p.m.

Matinees May 25 and June 1 at 2 p.m.

NEW! All event listings are now FREE. Submit your events online at www.uxbridgetowntalk.com Uxbridge Town Talk Advertisers receive highlighted ads in our calendar.

Listings for the print calendar are due in advance of the beginning of the month. We are not responsible for errors and omissions, and reserve the right to edit for space.

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time: 7 p.m. where: Uxbridge Music hall, 16 Main St. S Contact: 905-833-3171 ext 30

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peacefully productive

| an artist’s journey |

by DaRRin DaviS

I am following nature without being able to grasp her. I perhaps owe becoming a painter to flowers. -Claude Monet Sometimes I miss the city lights. I miss the all night Chinese restaurants serving steaming wonton soup and ‘cold tea’ at three in the morning. I miss the kinetic energy of a post-bop piano trio at one bar, followed by a world class bluegrass band pickin’ and grinnin’ right next door. I miss the weekly art openings and the travelling museum exhibits. I am a creative person and these things are said to be the lifeblood of an artist. I lived in the city for 12 years and the urban artist’s life became part of my inner fabric.

I grew up reading about Bob Dylan’s Greenwich Village apprenticeship days, about the Abstract Expressionists in post world war II Manhattan. About Kerouac and the Beats and their lust for the insomniatic pulse of the city. That’s what I needed. I was sure of it.

But a funny thing happened. I was surrounded by all this art.

By this ocean of creative access, and yet, I wasn’t really making much art. And neither were any of my city friends. Sure, we were living the so called ‘artist’s life.’ We were broke. We were jealously attending the openings and album launches of people we ‘sort of knew.’ We were getting together and complaining about the

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“state of things” over expensive drinks in funky, hideaway bars.

But where was OUR art? We were too busy trying to look like artists to actually create anything.

Then I met the most wonderful woman ever, we sang a few tunes together, got married and soon found ourselves owning a little house and studio out in the country. We began running on the Countryside Preserve trail everyday. We got a dog. We went on long, meandering walks in the woods. We started growing our own lettuce. And guess what?

We weren’t talking about art anymore.

We were making it.

My art took a giant leap forward when we moved to Uxbridge.

The twinkling beauty of the stars in the country sky replaced the garish 24 hour neon glow of the city and the sleeping artist in me woke up.

It ends up that most of the heroes that inspired me to become an artist had similar infatuations with nature.

Dylan and The Band moved to Woodstock and wrote some of the most inspired music of their careers. In 1945 Jackson Pollock and his wife Lee Krasner left New York City and bought a small wood-frame house and studio barn on 1.5 acres in the small town of East hampton, NY, and their creative abilities soared. henry David Thoreau famously built himself a small structure to live in, surrounded by nature, at Walden Pond. his writings there are filled with a single-minded adoration of the creative benefits of being connected with our natural environment. “We can never have enough of nature”, he wrote. “In wilderness we find the preservation of the world.”

Don’t just take my word for it. Psychology professor David Strayer from the university of Utah recently published a study confirming that spending time in nature greatly enhances our creativity. Test subjects who were led on a four day nature hike ranked “significantly higher on tests of creative thinking than their counterparts who spent the same time in the city.”

After discussing these ideas with Ginny Van Veghel of Elemi Organics and Kerri King of Durham Region Tourism, the seed for the ‘Wanderlust: Explore Uxbridge’ project was planted. With the help of Amanda Ferraro, several excellent artists from the Uxbridge area, Sari Pandopulos, Shelley Macbeth, Victoria Walker and many others, we’ve created an initiative linking our gorgeous trails, the powerful effect of nature on creativity, and the imaginative merchants of downtown Uxbridge. In the coming weeks you will notice stretched canvas prints of my Uxbridge Trails Photographs in the windows of over a dozen shops downtown. These prints will be complemented by gorgeous window displays created by the amazing visual artists Uxbridge has to offer. There will also be a locally created, vivid brochure designed to both increase the public awareness of our trail system and likewise encourage the 200,000 plus annual visitors of the trails to experience the incredible tastes, sights and treats that our local merchants have to offer.

So keep on walking those trails, buy local and remember: not all who wander are lost.

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

m a so n h o u s e g a rde n s. c o m

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Darrin Davis is a singer/songwriter, visual artist, photographer and Creativity Coach. His photography work is inspired by the beautiful trails of Uxbridge and he spends hundreds of hours each year running, hiking and walking his dog on them. Darrin’s personalized Nursery paintings are done in oil and acrylic on canvas and are inspired by turn of the century Dutch artists. They are favourite treasures in the playroom and bedroom collections of children across North America. Darrin has a strong ‘desire to inspire,’ and works to help people tell their story, through art.

spotlight on you

| local artist: darrin davis |

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guest column

| child’s play |

by SUSan FUMeRtOn

As parents, our goal is to raise independent, responsible and caring individuals.

We strive to address the whole child by developing their social, emotional, physical and intellectual sides. The importance of play has long been recognized by experts as the means to do this. Children learn through play. Even as infants, we see them develop physical skills. Gross motor skills are developed as a child learns to reach grasp, crawl, run, climb and balance. Fine motor skills emerge as a child handles small toys. They will develop cognitive concepts early on too.

What does this do? Does this puzzle piece fit here? Children also learn colours, numbers, size and shapes through play. They have the ability to enhance their memory skills as well as their attention span with the right toy. Language will increase as they play and interact with others. What begins with parents playing cooing games, advances to practical levels such as make believe stories. In turn, they are developing social skills. Learning to cooperate, take turns, negotiate and play by the rules are all important skills learned in early games. As a result, children learn the roles and rules of society.

In short, ‘Toys are the props of play’.

At Little Acorn, we can help parents consider the following questions when choosing toys for their children:

•

Does this toy involve and adapt to the interests and needs of my child?

• Does it invite my child to explore and to stay involved with it?

• Does it respond to my child’s natural curiosity and whimsical nature?

• Is it unstructured, allowing my child to decide how best it should be used?

There should be no right or wrong way to play with a toy. They should challenge a child’s interests and abilities but at the same time, match skill and maturity levels. With the right toy, a child will be neither bored nor too frustrated. Both solitary and social play is necessary for a child’s development. A child can play with a building toy alone and in the process, develop independence, self-sufficiency and persistence.

Playing with the same toy with others, the child acquires social skills such as sharing, empathy and cooperation.

Quality materials, fine workmanship and simplicity of design will assure that a toy will withstand the rigours of children’s play. We ask questions. We consider the home environment and the ages of the other, particularly younger children in the home. A toy intended for an older child may be unsuitable and possibly dangerous in the hands of a younger child. At Little Acorn, we can offer personal advice to parents, caregivers and grandparents who might need some help in choosing an appropriate educational toy or activity and wrap it for you too!

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.

Are you living with... ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑

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❑

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Low Back Pain?

Neck or Shoulder Pain?

Sciatica?

Poor Posture?

Chronic Headaches?

We can help!

CALL NOW!

PRINTING

We work with several printers to secure you the best printing price for your specific job.

DESIGN

Logos, brochures, postcards, posters, letterheads, large format signs, magnets and more.

WEBSITES

Custom websites to fit every need and budget requirement.

905.852.9700

Dr. Dennis P. Milenov, B.Sc., D.C. Begg Chiropractic Centre 290 Toronto Street South Uxbridge, ON

Fully qualified designer on staff with a 3 year advanced diploma.

905 862 3747 · 24 Toronto St. N. Unit 4, Uxbridge ON Follow us!

www.beggchiropractic.ca

w w w. sw e e t wo r l d m e d i a .c o m

EMS Day Ride The York-Durham heritage Railway would like to honour our “First Responders” by offering them a free ride on this special day. First Responders are organizations like Police, Fire and Ambulance which ensure public safety and health by responding to all types of emergencies. Aside from their heroic day-to-day duties, all of these folks engage in community awareness and prevention programs to help the public avoid, detect and report emergencies effectively.

The heritage train is ready to take you through the beautiful Moraine countryside from Uxbridge to Stouffville and back. Join the York-Durham heritage Railway to celebrate the beauty of a train from an era gone by, but preserved for your present day enjoyment.

Veteran’s Day Ride The York-Durham heritage Railway would like to honour our Canadian Forces members, both active troops and cherished veterans, by offering them a free ride on this special day.

Celebrated every year on the first Sunday of June, Canadian Forces Day offers an opportunity for Canadians to recognize CF members’ contributions to peace and security at home and abroad.

Every day, Canadian Forces members carry out their duties with valour and bravery, often in the face of great adversity. Their unwavering dedication and passionate commitment have earned our recognition and respect.

Father’s Day Ride Sunday, June 16th is Father’s Day! Right across North America, June 16th is the day that fathers are honoured. What better way than to take them for a trip on the York-Durham heritage Railway. With trains from Uxbridge and Stouffville, it’s convenient if you are coming from Toronto or from other parts of York and Durham Regions. Special Offer - Dads ride for half price, when accompanied by their children. Please be at the station 30 minutes before train time.

your community

| a trip back in time |

Fun did-you-know facts •

• • • •

There is a railway museum at the Uxbridge station. We are a charitable organization recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency. Donation of goods, services or time are willingly accepted The YDhR is operated entirely by volunteers The railway operates over some of the hilliest and windiest trackage east of the Rocky Mountains Anyone can join the York-Durham heritage Railway Association and support the preservation of heritage Railway equipment All trips include a handout describing the Oak Ridges Moraine and the train

Saturday, June 22 marks the grand opening of the Uxbridge Skate Park. Feel free to go and celebrate the opening of The Township of Uxbridge’s newest recreational facility. Bring your bike, scooter or skateboard. This event will feature prizes, barbeque and teams and takes place at the Uxbridge Kennedy Fields, 732 Ball Rd. The new park design is 8,500 square feet of slopes, jumps, obstacles and more. With surrounding landscape features, the entire structure is expected to be about 10,000 square feet! The design will allow ample space for multiple riders to use the park at once. A larger bowl, which resembles an in-ground pool will be the centre attraction with deeper drops, various slops, curves and more. The bowl will be approximately six and nine feet deep in certain areas and will lead into a sloped pathway, followed by stairs, railings, jumps and other obstacles for skateboarders, bikers, inline skaters and more.

Where’s your favourite place to visit across Canada?

Send your favourite vacation spot to featured in the August issue!

Uxbridge Town Talk to be

Email info@uxbridgetowntalk.com with a photo, location and brief description of why it’s your favourite spot. Whether it’s a girl’s getaway, family trip or man’s retreat, or you leave to kick back and relax or look for thrilling adventures we want to share your sweet summer trek.

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| uxbridge skate park grand opening |

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| summer sweet pea salad with creamy avocado citrus vinaigrette |

utt kitchen

Ingredients For the Salad: 2-3 oz. baby romaine (half a package) ½ cucumber, cut into half moons 6-8 radishes, finely sliced ¼ bunch parsley, cut into small florets 1 bunch green onions, bias sliced 24 fresh sweet peas, peas removed from pods 1 handful sprouted peas, cut stems short

by Sarah Matheson

For the Dressing: ¼ avocado 2 tablespoons crème fresh 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 lemon, juiced 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar Fresh ground pepper and coarse salt to taste

Directions: • In a large bowl combine all salad ingredients (except sprouted peas).

• In a blender combine all dressing ingredients. Blend until smooth.

• Drizzle salad with Creamy Avocado Citrus dressing and garnish with sprouted peas.

| easy raspberry lemonade |

sourced from www.allrecipes.com

What better way to beat the summer heat then with a cold beverage. Enjoy this easy, refreshing and thirst-quenching drink with friends and family.

Ingredients 1 (12 fluid ounce) can frozen raspberry lemonade concentrate 3 cups water 3/4 teaspoon lime juice 1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle lemon-lime flavored carbonated beverage 1 cup crushed ice 1 cup fresh raspberries, garnish (optional) Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

| summer food safety tips |

Directions: • In a large punch bowl, combine raspberry lemonade concentrate, water and lime juice.

• Stir in lemon-lime soda and crushed ice.

• Garnish each glass with a fresh raspberry and a mint leaf (optional).

Sourced from Health Canada | www.hc-sc.gc.ca

The risk of foodborne illness increases during the summer when temperatures are warmer and people are more likely to be cooking outdoors. Harmful bacteria grow quickly in warm, moist conditions, so certain food safety measures should be taken. Here are some food safety tips that can help keep you and your family safe from foodborne illness.

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Chill Keep raw foods cold. This can be a challenge when you are outdoors, especially with raw meat, poultry, and seafood. Use a cooler to store your food. Use plenty of ice packs to make sure it is kept out of the temperature danger zone of 4°C to 60°C. Keep the cooler out of direct sunlight, and avoid opening it too often. If you use two separate coolers for food and drinks, the one with the food will not be opened as often, so it will stay cold longer. On hot summer days, don’t keep food unrefrigerated for more than two hours.

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Separate Make sure to keep your raw meat, poultry and seafood away from other foods so that you don’t spread foodborne bacteria between foods. You can avoid cross-contamination by packing or wrapping meat, poultry and seafood separately or by using separate containers which will prevent leaks. If you are packing vegetables in the same cooler, always put meat, poultry and seafood at the bottom of the cooler to

June 22, 2013 Pooch Palace will be hosting their first adoptathon for TEAM Dog Rescue.

Come out and support the cause. Come and see some of the beautiful dogs and cats that are looking for their FURever homes.

Learn how TEAM became a rescue and all of their work. You never know you might just find your next family member here!

Look us up on Facebook - T.E.A.M. Pooch Palace 905-904-0039 Dog Rescue and like our page! 4 Banff Rd. Uxbridge, ON

keep juices from dripping onto other foods. Never put ready-to-eat or cooked food on the same plate that held raw meat, poultry or seafood.

For cooking outdoors, consider taking along several sets of utensils, cutting boards, or plates. This can help prevent cross-contamination.

Clean Make sure that your hands, plates and utensils are clean. This will help reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Follow the same washing instructions outdoors as you do at home. Bring soap and wash your hands with warm clean water for at least 20 seconds.

Cook Bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella and Listeria can be killed by heat. Raw meat, poultry and seafood must be cooked properly to a safe internal temperature to eliminate these bacteria.

Remember: when in doubt, throw it out!

When I say I fell in love with massage therapy six years ago, you are probably thinking what’s not to love about candles and soft white towels, quiet music and muted wall colours? For some of the reasons I just mentioned, most of my clients share my love for massage therapy.

While it is a beautiful thing to imagine a calm, relaxing massage, that is not what I love most about my career. Instead I enjoy the chance to problem solve each day, the opportunity to educate my clients about their body, and the ability to proactively help my clients stay active and live without pain.

Massage therapy is at its core a set of techniques applied by a massage therapist to break up adhesions in muscle tissue and increase circulation. Ontario is one of only three provinces that regulates massage therapy, which means that all Registered Massage Therapists must spend 2200 practice hours learning about anatomy, physiology, biomechanics & ergonomics, and massage techniques that can help to alleviate pain.

With that type of education, a massage client complaining of neck pain will not be treated as a client who needs a neck rub; I take note of posture and alignment to see what else could be con-

| the benefits of massage therapy | There are tremendous benefits to be achieved through regular massage therapy treatments from a Registered Massage Therapist. Whether your need is to have a moment of relaxation, reduce muscle tension or attain relief from chronic pain, a therapeutic massage can enhance your overall sense of emotional and physical well-being as well as your quality of life.

Massage therapy benefits people of all ages. While it benefits the injured, the ill and the stressed, the strength of massage therapy in preventing illness and conditions before they develop cannot be overlooked. Massage therapy can be used in the treatment of both acute and chronic stages of conditions.

tributing to their neck pain. I have my client perform some simple range of motion exercises to see if one side of the body is tighter than the other. I will ask my client about headaches, jaw clenching, the type of pillow they are using, and even go so far as to ask about their home/office computer positioning, to see how these factors could be contributing to their neck pain.

Knowing which muscles are causing a sore neck, my massage treatments can focus on helping the client reach their goal of less pain and increase their range of motion that they may not notice has been reduced! After a massage treatment I spend time reviewing stretches and exercises that can help to prevent ongoing neck pain and stiffness.

Not every client complains of a sore neck - I see clients with sore elbows, swollen ankles, twitchy thumbs and quite often, low back pain. Massage therapy is a popular treatment for whiplash, plantar fasciitis, and sciatica. The great thing about massage therapy is that it is adaptable; every time a client comes in their treatment is individualized and tailored to their specific needs.

feeling fine

by JaSMine MathewS

born and raised in Uxbridge, Jasmine studied massage therapy at the Canadian College of Massage and hydrotherapy in Cambridge after high school. She was delighted to return to Uxbridge in 2010 to start her own massage therapy practice, elevate therapeutic Services. Currently she runs her practice out of begg Chiropractic and wellness Centre located at 290 toronto St. S in Uxbridge.

SOURCeD FROM the RegiSteReD MaSSage theRapiStS’ aSSOCiatiOn OF OntaRiO

The following is a list of conditions for which massage therapy, when provided by a Registered Massage Therapist, can prove beneficial: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Anxiety and Depression Asthma and Emphysema Back, Leg and Neck Pain Cancer Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Dislocations Fibromyalgia Fractures and Edema Gastrointestinal Disorders headaches Arthritis and Bursitis Insomnia Reducing or eliminating pain Improving joint mobility Improving circulation

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Kyphosis and Scoliosis Multiple Sclerosis Parkinson’s Disease Muscle Tension and Spasm Palliative Care Post-Surgical Rehabilitation Pregnancy and Labour Support Sports Injuries Strains and Sprains Stress Stroke Tendinitis Whiplash Improving immune system functioning Increasing lymphatic drainage Increasing body awareness

id e n tif y a n g e ls th at a re g u i d i n g an d s u p p o r ti n g y o u Now in Uxbridge at Elemi Organics, 58 Brock St. W. 905 852 5574 Also in Port Perry at 102 Alva St. 905 982 2741 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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| massage therapy |

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