Uxbridge Town Talk - March 2010 by Uxbridge Town Talk

Table of Contents Managing Editor: Carly Foster Art Director: Kirsty Kernohan Copy Editor: Jodi Avery MacLean Editorial Assistant: Shelby Stokes

Contributors: Sandy Johnston Debbi-Lynne Brand Contact Us Phone: 647-476-3056 Email: info@uxbridgetowntalk.com www.uxbridgetowntalk.com Mailing Address: Uxbridge Town Talk P.O. Box 1035 Uxbridge, ON L9P 1N3 On our cover:© Scol22 | Dreamstime.com

From the Editor

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 Sweet World Media monthly publication. The publisher assumes no responsibility or

Stepping out of the car, my ears are met with the crack of gunfire. My nose burns from the acrid smell of gun smoke. I’ve never in my life been so close to a gun, and I’m grateful it’s in the controlled environment of Uxbridge Shooting Sports. Despite the initial shock, the club house and its members are warm and inviting, battling the preconceived notions surrounding the sport. Each month we are learning more about the diverse clubs, organizations and businesses that anchor our community, be it this recreational gun club (see the story on page 7) or a venue for youth to hear live bands without having to leave town (read All About Club U on page 8). What a juxtaposition the gun club was to our community story this month: how a not-so-little quilt store brings together women for fun, friendship, fabric and food. Read about Quilters Cupboard and its matriarch, Sue Carmichael, on page 5. Our favourite found-in-Uxbridge products for spring — including boots and birdseed — are on page 6. And be sure to cut out the spring cleaning checklist on page 17. The March events calendar is bursting as spring starts, supplemented by a guide to Uxbridge March Break activities to help you keep your kids busy. Keep us around to plan your month, starting on page 10. Sandy Johnston from the Uxbridge Senior Citizens’ Club joins us again, with a column on the youthful power of grandkids (page 14). This month we also welcome mom Debbi-Lynne Brand, who recently learned a valuable parenting lesson from a yellow traffic light (page 9). As our magazine continues to grow — did you notice we added four extra pages this month? — we are looking for local residents to add to our community voice. If you’re interested in writing about gardening, technology, cars, food, parenting, sports or more, we’d love to hear from you! Email me at carly@uxbridgetowntalk.com or call 647-476-3056 for more details. Enjoy!

liability for the claims, views, opinions, comments or advertisements herein. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. Uxbridge Town Talk does not endorse any advertised product, service or event. The Publisher is not responsible for any typographical errors. Advertisers are responsible for any copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. Copyright Sweet World Media 2009 - 2010. www.sweetworldmedia.com

Join some local Irish folks for St. Patrick’s Day

The Durham Irish Association was established in 2003 to preserve and celebrate Irish culture, heritage, song, story, music, dance and sport in Durham Region. Check out their list of week-long St. Patrick’s Day celebrations at www.durhamirishassociation.com.

Eyes on Uxbridge

Have you checked out the new Township website? Our favourite part is Eyes on Uxbridge, a flickr group of photos from local residents at www.flickr.com/photos/twpuxbridge. See the new site at www.town.uxbridge.on.ca.

Did you know....

A quick & easy way to help local youth Congratulations to the Uxbridge Youth Centre for receiving charitable status! Donors will now receive a tax receipt, and can easily make a donation online via the new Donate Now button at www.uxbridgeyouthcentre.com.

Hey Ux kids! Enter the library’s short story contest! "Maybe it was my imagination but yesterday I looked through the library window and I thought I saw ..." And so begins the Uxbridge Library’s short story contest for Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 students. Entries due March 19. For details, go to the Uxbridge and Zephyr branches or visit www.uxlib.com.

that Uxbridge is twinned with Catawissa, Pennsylvania? The first settlers of our town were Quakers from there who started arriving in 1806. The two municipalities were joined in 1982.

By Carly Foster Managing Editor Everywhere your ear turns it's met with laughter, the soft rustling of fabric as hugs are exchanged, the squeals of friendship only women can make. There are more than 100 packed into the community room at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church on this freezing Thursday evening in February, creating a collective muted roar of warmth and community. They are here for grown up show and tell. The perimeter of the church’s recreation room is lined with tables, upon which lay dozens of quilted masterpieces: quilts of every colour, texture and size. Tote bags with oversized buttons and sequined faces. A brown wood frame encasing a quilted winter scene. Perched cardinals crafted from red thread. These aren’t your grandma’s stuffy, moth-eaten bedspreads from the bottom of the cedar trunk. The women here have spent weeks and months - even years – creating labours of love, stitching new friendships along the way. With 10 minutes to go until the official start of the evening, organizers are adding more folding chairs to the end of the aisles to accommodate the steady stream of guests. People settle in to face the stage where Sue Carmichael of Quilters Cupboard will soon hold court among the audience’s shared accomplishments and quilting war stories. She and her staff are the orchestrators of tonight’s event, which raises food and cash donations for the Loaves and Fishes Food Bank. The turn out is a perfect metaphor for this local quilting community that draws women from every corner of the world. Vicki Meraw, 54, is from Utica. Mary Rose, 58, is from Kettleby. Both are retired teachers. They met in a learn-to-quilt class at Quilters Cupboard in 2006, and are part of the excited crowd here to show off their creations and mingle. They only see each other when they quilt, but still manage to finish each other’s sentences in breathless bursts of excitement and laughter. Vicki: “I blew out my machine making my first quilt.” Mary: “I love to make lunch top bags for my friends.” Vicki: “They called her the bag queen. Oh, and we love quilt art.” Mary: “Thread art. Thread painting.” Vicki: “Quilting itself is so addictive.” Mary: “It’s exciting to put fabrics together, to see what others are doing.” Vicki: “We can do patterns at home. But now we want to do it with others. There’s definitely the social side.” Mary: “We try to push ourselves.” This is the new face of quilting, filled with fun, friendship, fabric and food, says Carmichael. “The thread of quilting is meeting new people,” she says. “It’s women meeting women. That, to me, is what makes this store hum.” Located on the outskirts of town at 202 Brock St. E. in a renovated house, the store is like a den. Bolts of fabric are tucked into shelves, organized by colour or type. Examples of class creations hang from the walls, descriptions attached. The classrooms on this day sit empty, but feel anticipatory, waiting for their

charges. Every corner is filled with colour and notions and ideas. Carmichael is unsure how many walk through the Cupboard’s doors each year, but 2,500 people receive the store’s popular email newsletter. Each semester – plus two weeks in the summer – offers 40 to 50 classes to choose from. The newest club is like AA for quilters: Stash Pot Pie is for those who call quilting therapy, have too much fabric stash according to their families, and feel guilty about it. This class offers free patterns, free dessert recipes and a guaranteed good night with friends. The PMS class – potluck, munchies and sewing – is a favourite. “Quilting used to be done on a frame in a quilting bee,” Carmichael says. “Now you do your own project, but you’re still talking to (your friends).” Customers range in age from mid 20s to 80s, with the majority in their forties. The dedicated clientele flock to Uxbridge from Kitchener, Orangeville, Sudbury, Las Vegas and even England. The store’s locale is en route to many college and universities, making it a perfect pitstop for parents visiting their kids. “I used to be a nurse, and would lie in bed each morning going, ‘I don’t want to get up.’ But this is so rewarding,” Carmichael says, telling the story of a class that had to be told to quiet down because they were laughing too loud for a phone call to be heard. “That’s what gets me out of bed now. Women making and creating for themselves.” Carmichael acquired the business in 2002, renovating and opening the store in just 68 days. She had a business partner for six years, and now owns Quilters Cupboard on her own, employing nine staff. A breast cancer survivor, she says she doesn’t know how she could have survived the ordeal in 2007 without her quilting friends and clientele. “We have great customers. That’s why we have a great business,” she says. “It’s a place to come for a pick-me-up.” But the store is not all business. Quilters regularly come together to create items for charity, including a 30-hour quilt marathon last year that helped purchase a digital mammography unit at the Uxbridge Cottage Hospital. Other projects include handmade pillowcases and placemats for local organizations such as women’s shelters. Asked what draws women into the craft, Carmichael answers: Process. Texture. Colour. Precision. Architecture. “But truly, when these women come together, it’s the enjoyment of being together,” she says. “It’s friendship.” For more information, visit www.quilterscupboard.ca. To find thousands of quilt sites from around the world, check out www.quiltinggallery.com. 5

Splishsplashing fun A royal greeting for our singing feathered friends

Welcome back the birds as the warmer weather sets in with this unique blend of seeds, including safflower, sunflower and cut corn. Royal Jubilee attracts wild song birds such as cardinals, blue jays, chickadees, grosbeak and finches.

$8.99 at The Incredible Country Hardware Store

Bloomin’ baby! Uxbridge mom entrepreneur Nicole Vos recently unveiled these adorable Over the Top Hats as part of her spring line. Create your own diva baby with a range of fabrics and colours including pink leopard, purple crochet and blue knit, all with dramatic and playful faux flowers. $19.99+ at www.wildaboutbeads.ca

Who says kids get to have all the fun in the rain? Add some grownup style to those dreary thaw days as spring arrives this month with these splash-tacular rubber boots from Joe Fresh. $29 at Zehrs

Meat to mmmmmmm over

Being able to feed our wee ones preservative-free, handmade-on-site deli meats is the main reason we love the Meat Merchant’s fare. But it’s the growing list of flavours that keep us coming back for more each week. Our favourites include Cajun chicken, tandoori turkey, meatloaf and good old fashioned roast beef. $1.99+/100 grams at The Meat Merchant

Upscale experience, low cost price We were recently treated to a few hours of relaxation in the form of a delightful pedicure and facial at downtown Uxbridge’s Haute-Ville Spa. With soothing music as the backdrop, our tootsies were transformed from winter-damaged and dry to soft, pink, polished and ready for spring. The attention to detail during treatment, including warm-jet soak, nail shaping and cuticle-softening was topped off by a comforting food and leg massage: and we got to keep our wooden stick and nail file (this adds to the cleanliness factor). The facial was tailored to our skin, and included cleansing, exfoliating and masks with delicious-smelling products. During the steam treatment, we received scalp and arm massages instead of our caregivers just leaving the room. With a full day of work ahead, we left feeling refreshed and not gooped on with products (so essential for sneaking away from work for a spa quickie). $45 pedicure, $65 prescription facial at Haute-Ville Spa 6

Who: Doug Baker, manager of Uxbridge Shooting Sports What: Non-profit recreational shot gun sports facility Where: 5700 Concession 4, just outside Roseville off Durham Road 8 By the numbers: 97 acres. Approximately 150 members ranging in age from 12 to 86 pay $225 (plus fees to the Canadian Shooting Sports Association) each year for private membership and access to training and several fields. 25 skeets = $5.50. 100 sporting clays = $28. 6 employees including manager, trappers (who load machines and maintain property), cashier and cook. Can operate 3 days according to bylaws; currently Wednesday (10 a.m. to dusk), Sunday (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and the occasional Saturday for training and special events. Only #7 1/2 to #9 shells are allowed To do: Skeet shooting (targets thrown from set trajectories and speeds from two trap houses situated 40 m apart, at opposite ends of a semicircular arc on which there are seven shooting positions), trap shooting (targets are thrown either as singles or doubles from one or more traps situated 15 m in front of the shooter at varying speeds, angles and elevations), sporting clays (the discipline originally devised to simulate live quarry shooting, here targets are thrown in a great variety of trajectories, angles, speeds, elevations and distances) and five stand (five stands or stations to shoot from, with several traps that throw targets in various combinations) Who: People come from all over Durham and York regions, and as far away as Lakefield and Orillia. “It’s very social,” Baker says. “People that come out and shoot with their spouses, buddies or as couples, with their children. The majority are men, but we encourage the ladies to come out, too.” In better weather there are potlucks, and an open kitchen Sunday means burgers or breakfast after a morning of shooting History: The original Scarborough Rod and Gun Club was founded in 1949, and moved to Uxbridge in 1966 with two skeet and two trap fields. Sporting clays were added in 1967, while wobble traps and five stand launched in 1998. The club was renamed Uxbridge Shooting Sports in 1992 Family: Lives just outside Uxbridge with his wife, two daughters and son on a horse/hay farm Biggest challenge: Public perceptions. “This facility has existed since the late 40s, and there has never been an accident. Safety equipment is mandatory. Members are screened before joining. We don’t have any issues with neighbours; we’re respectful.” FAQ: Non-members (with or without a firearms license) are allowed three visits under supervision before having Doug Baker and dog Briar stand in front of a range at to become a member Uxbridge Shooting Sports just outside Roseville. The red flag More info: www.uxbridgess.ca or call 905-852-5907

means the course is live.

By Shelby Stokes Editorial Assistant What: Club U, venue for concerts, parties and dances for Uxbridge youth Where: 69 Brock St. W. (other side of the bowling alley) Who: Bodan Mulholland, general manager Why: Club U started in the spring of 2009. The owner decided to start the club in order to give people of all ages (primarily the high school crowd) a place they could go and have something to do on weekends. Mulholland was unsure how Uxbridge was going to attract local concerts, as all the venues in town at the time were either too small or too expensive. “Having been involved in the local music scene for the past 10 years, I recognized Club U as Uxbridge’s saving grace for local music/events,” he says By the numbers: On an average night, attendance is anywhere from 80 to 175 people. Two full-size pool tables. Each concert averages four bands, with 3 to 4 events each month. A full staff ensures the environment inside the club is safe and clean Music: Live bands and DJs feature a variety of styles, from rock to pop to hardcore. Recent concerts include Beatles night, 80's/90's Retro, Grades 4 to 8 Valentine's dance, and up and coming bands Crush Luther, Isle of Thieves and The Hybrid Attraction Helping the community: A recent event gathered donations for the Loaves and Fishes Food Bank, an act the club plans to continue on a regular basis Word to the people: “With the continuous support of the Township and the people of Uxbridge, we’ll continue to support local music and provide a safe place to hold events in this amazing town we all love,” Mulholland says More info: 647-728-2131 or search Club U on Facebook for concert details and more

By Debbi-Lynne BrandSpecial to Uxbridge Town Talk “The light is yellow, Mommy. That means slow down.” This is what I hear from the back seat on a recent brisk morning and it gets me thinking. Whenever I’m driving around with the boys in the back (Tyler, 3 years, and Nate, 7 months) Tyler is always watching the stoplights and telling me what each colour means. But today our little game hits me a bit differently than any other day. Could it possibly be due to the fact we just came out of the busiest, most frenzied and hectic time of the year, celebrating with our friends and families at numerous parties and get-togethers? Probably, however, it is also hitting home because I am on maternity leave and I have still not “slowed down.” I do this to myself every mat leave apparently! I am one of those people who figure that if they are sitting at home, not heading into work each day, then they are not being productive. The sensible thing to do in this case is start up a little home based business, sign up for a few courses, buy some new books to read and plan on knitting the boys their very own handmade sweaters. This is what everyone does when they have a newborn and a 2-year-old right? Oh come on, I know you’re out there! Tyler telling me to slow down the other day was something of a wake-up call. Don’t get me wrong – I love all these little and big activities and commitments I have signed up for (due to the fact that I am “just sitting around at home”) but I have realized that I need to slow down and realize that I am at that point in my life when I should be traveling on a yellow

light. My kids are small and so sweet (most of the time), and this time with them won’t last forever. I’m now making a conscious effort to be as “resent as possible for my family and friends. I am part of a generation that has been raised on instant gratification, and I think that being productive results in something being completed and accomplished fairly quickly – not poorly, just efficiently. My kids, however, are the best things I have ever produced, and even though it kills me to wait to see what the finished products are going to be like, I am going to have to slow down and put my all into these one-of-akind creations. Every time you see a yellow traffic light, remind yourself to slow down and enjoy your moments. ___________________ Debbi Brand lives in Uxbridge with her husband and two young boys. A kindergarten teacher, she is currently on maternity leave. She also owns a home-based business called Freckle Farm Creations, crafting hand-painted items for home and child. Find Freckle Farm on Facebook and Etsy.

Tuesday, March 2 Evening in Roma Cooking Class 7 p.m. For anyone who enjoys Italian food, this is the class for you! Insalata caprese, stracciatella, Roman egg drop soup, osso bucco, lemon granite. $85 905-862-3359 thepassionatecook.ca

parking area on east side of Con. 6 south of Durham 21. No dogs please. Joan Taylor 905-477-2161 Tip Top Hats 10:30 a.m. Fabulous class to learn how to knit on four needles! One week of effort will give you a wonderful topper. Knit children or adult sizes. $30. www.onthelamb.ca 905-852-1944

Summer Soccer Registration 7 p.m. Youth, women’s and men’s league registration night at 2010 Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament Uxbridge Arena. 7 p.m. 905-862-0083 www.uxbridgesoccerclub.com From The Gorgons. $2,000 guaranteed first prize. $75/player at the door. 19+ licensed event. Bruins game chris@lengraphics.com 416-807-3333 8:15 ap.m. Lakefield @ Uxbridge Saturday, March 6 Uxbridge Arena 905-852-3081 Oak Ridges Trail Association Hike Wednesday, March 3 9:30 a.m. Moderate pace hike or snowshoe on Al Shaw side trail. Soup Lunch Join us for breakfast after. Meet at trail entrance on 12:30 p.m. west side of Con. 6, 1.5 km south of Durham 21. $2 Joan Taylor 905-477-2161 St. Andrew’s Chalmers Presbyterian Church Sunday, March 7 Window Sill Herb Garden 10 a.m. The Magic Circus Pot up your own herb garden for creating fabulous 2 p.m. culinary masterpieces! Learn harvesting and drying Durham Farm and Rural Family Resources presents a techniques and create your own garden to take home. magical journey through wild puppet land with $45 La Petite Fleur 905-862-3967 audience participation, spinning, singing and juggling at the Uxbridge Arena. With Tim Holland, puppet Thursday, March 4 tamer. Tickets $15, or family pass $54.00 (up to six) (905) 862-2750, ext 310 Ghana Health Team 2010 www.durhamfamilyresources.org 7 p.m. Information meeting for any health care professional Uxbridge Chamber Choir Lighting The World interested in a medical/surgical/dental/eye mission to 3 p.m. Ghana in October. Featuring Lux Aeterna, Morten Lauridsen and Dr. Jennifer Wilson wilsong@sympatico.ca Liebeslieder waltzes by Johannes Brahms. Joined by The Evensong Group. St. Paul's Anglican Church. Friday, March 5 Tickets $18, $15 seniors & students, under 12 free. Available at Blue Heron Books or at the door. Oak Ridges Trail Association Hike 905-852-7993 info@uxbridgechamberchoir.ca 9:30 a.m. Hilly hike or snowshoe in the Walker Woods. Meet at

Books and Brunch 11 a.m. Multi-award winner Linwood Barclay speaks as part of Blue Heron Books' spring Books and Brunch series. At Wyndance Golf Club. Tickets $20 andinclude brunch 905-852-4282 www.blueheronbooks.com Wednesday, March 10 Soup Lunch 12:30 p.m. $2 St. Andrew’s Chalmers Presbyterian Church Thursday, March 11 Friends of the Uxbridge Library 7 p.m. Enhance and support the extension of the services and resources of the library, and assist in raising community awareness. Membership dues required. Uxbridge Library 905-852-9747 www.uxlib.com Friday, March 12 Penguin Vest 10:30 a.m. This vest is simple, cool in cotton and a flattering shape for everyone. Learn some very simple shaping and a cute buttonhole. $75 www.onthelamb.ca 905-852-1944 Saturday, March 13 Youthstravaganza! 6:30 p.m. The Uxbridge Youth Centre is showcasing local youth talent. Insupport Haitian relief efforts at the same time! At Uxbridge Seniors Centre. $5 905-862-3456 www.uxbridgeyouthcentre.com James Keelaghan Folk Hero 8 p.m. Renowned as one of Canada's finest singersongwriters, James Keelaghan brings his deep catalogue of timeless originals, spellbinding voice, and acclaimed musicianship, at The Greenbank Hall. $20. 905-985-8351

Thursday, March 18

Wednesday, March 24

Easter Egg Tree 6:30 p.m. This class teaches how to create exquisite eggs that will last forever and how to display them on your very own Easter egg tree! Tree and eight eggs included. $30. La Petite Fleur 905-862-3967

As We See It 1 p.m. Everyone welcome for speakers on intriguing and visual travelogues or simply take part in old fashioned seasonal activities. Refreshments included. $2 Uxbridge Library 905-852-9747 www.uxlib.com

Library Board Meeting 6:30 p.m. Uxbridge Library 905-852-9747 www.uxlib.com

Saturday, March 27

Lions Pancake Breakfast 7:30 a.m. Pancakes, sausage, coffee, juice and real maple syrup. Uxbridge Genealogy Meeting At Uxbridge Arena. Children $4, Adults $6. Proceeds to 7 p.m. Haiti relief. The Parish Chest with speaker Dave Dobson. Everyone 905-852-7203 welcome with a $2 donation. 905-852-6973 www.uxgen.net Silverbirch Charity Concert 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 19 The Good Brothers, Silverbirch, The Dnes Sisters. Raising funds for ArtsCan Circle. At the Uxbridge Music Planting a Cutting Garden Hall. $20. 6:30 p.m. 705-228-8426 tjmccreight@aol.com This class teaches you how to properly create your own cutting garden from start to finish. For the Tuesday, March 30 beginner gardener or experienced pro, something for everyone. $15 (includes a 6” perennial to take home). 7:15 a.m. La Petite Fleur 905-862-3967 Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting featuring Sweet World Media: Introduction to social networking. Saturday, March 20 Learn all about websites, Facebook, Twitter and more. $15 non-members, $10 members at Wooden Sticks. Siloam Orchards Open for Spring 905-852-7683 rloewen@spectrumadmin.ca 9 a.m. Self guided walking hikes through the sugar bush, Regular events syrup making demonstrations, taffy in the snow, pancakes and barbeque. Family Play to Learn www.siloamorchards.com 905-852-9418 Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 9 a.m., Thursdays 9:15 a.m. Cheap and Chic Cooking Class Drop-in and registered play time and crafts. No fee. 7 p.m. Call for information on various weekly Ontario Early Bring international, simple, inexpensive and delicious Years Centre programming dishes to your table, including chicken paprikash, wild Durham Farm and Rural Family Resources mushroom risotto and sticky toffee pudding. The 905-862-2750 ext. 310 Passionate Cook’s Essentials www.durhamfamilyresources.org 905-862-3359 www.thepassionatecook.ca Udora play group 10 a.m. For parents and their kids ages 0 to 6. Come out and

have some fun with your little one. Tuesday and Thursday at the Udora Community Centre Marni 705-228-8114 Ladies Interdenominational Community Bible Study 1 p.m. Tuesdays at Uxbridge Baptist Church. All ages welcome. 905-852-2846 Bingo 7:30 p.m. Great jackpots every Thursday. Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905-852-5293 Short Mat Bowling 1:30 p.m. At the Uxbridge Senior’s Centre. Bowls provided. Every Thursday. Euchre 7:30 p.m. All are welcome for a fun evening of cards and prizes every Friday. Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905-852-5293 STAND 3-4 p.m. Come explore and respond to social injustice here and around the world. Free every Saturday at the Uxbridge Youth Centre www.uxbridgeyouthcentre.com 905-862-3456 Family Yoga 12:15 p.m. Discover and explore yoga through imaginative poses, breathing exercises, games, relaxation and visualization. $75 for one parent and child, Sundays. www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905-852-2782 Easy Fit Yoga 10 a.m. Limber up and then relax! This class involves light cardio moves combined with strengthening exercises and yoga-based stretching; geared to 50+ but all ages welcome. $10. Mondays www.nrg4lifefitness.com 905-852-4750 (continued on page 12)

Regular Events (continued on page 12)

Yoga 9:30 a.m. Please call for details. Tuesdays. Siloam Hall 905-852-7507 Flow Yoga 6 p.m. Experience stress-release, inspiration and ease in this all levels drop in yoga class with Uxbridge's renowned teacher, Shasta Townsend. Wednesdays www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905-852-2782 Phatcamp Bootcamp Tuesdays 6 a.m., 5 p.m. Wednesday 6 a.m. Thursday 6 a.m., 5 p.m. UxPool Wendy 905-852-4774 www.committofitness.net Power Pilates 9 a.m. A unique method of exercise designed to improve posture, flexibility, awareness and overall core strength. Held at NRG4 Life studio 85 Second Ave. Tuesdays, Thursdays Brenda 705-437-2196 Flow Yoga 9:15 a.m. This class is a combination of Vinyasa flow style Yoga fused with more dynamic Hatha Yoga poses. Wednesday. $9. www.nrg4lifefitness.com 905-852-4750 Meditation 7 p.m. Bring comfortable cushions. Admission by donation. First and third Thursday. Siloam Hall 905-852-9974

Uxbridge Town Talk reserves the right to edit for space. We are not responsible for errors or omissions. A submission does not guarantee printing in the magazine. We do publish every event in our online calendar at www.uxbridgetowntalk.com. Submit yours for FREE!! Email events to info@uxbridgetowntalk.com or mail (see our address on page 3)

Monday, March 15 Clay Exploration Camp 9 a.m., 1 p.m. Week long, half-day art camp includes materials and firing held at Enchanted Arts Studio 19 Main St. N. $125 905-904-0198

Felted Blackberry/ipod Case 10:30 a.m. Calling all teachers! Learn to knit with our fun felted Blackberry/ipod case. We will teach you how to cast on, knit and cast off. Includes pattern, yarn, instruction. $25 www.onthelamb.ca 905-852-1944

The Magic of Reading 10:30 a.m. A fantastic, fun-filled magic show to encourage students to read for pleasure and motivate them to use the library. Grades JK and 2. $3.50 Uxbridge Library 905-852-9747 www.uxlib.com

Pizza Day 1 p.m. Things are getting a little saucy as we learn about oven health and safety to create and eat our own pizzas. Each participant will make her/his own, along with some homemade smoothies. $12 Upstairs at Zehrs 905-852-5009

March Break Circus Camp 8:30 a.m. All week Checkers the Clown will be joining us for activities and clowning around! Ages 4 to 12. Sunderland Country Day School 705-357-1200 sunderlandcountrydayschool@gmail.com March Break Riding Camp 8:45 a.m., 12:45 p.m. All week beginner/novice program for ages 4 to 13. Intermediate/advanced program for ages 9 to 15. Half and full day programs are available for both levels. www.sandfordstables.net 905-852-9854 Mac n’ Cheese 1 p.m. We are cooking up homemade mac n’ cheese and cooling off with an awesome punch. Book your junior chef in now. $12 Upstairs at Zehrs 905-852-5009 Winter Adventure Camp 8:30 a.m. Arts, crafts, outdoor adventures, songs and games. End your day with a mug of hot chocolate and swimming at Uxpool. Ages 5 to 10. $130/week or $30/day Uxpool 905-852-7831 camps@town.uxbridge.on.ca Sports Camp 8:30 a.m. For the sports enthusiast. Learn a variety of ball and court skills, indoor and outdoor games and activities, and swim at Uxpool. Ages 5 to 12. $130/week or $30/day Uxpool 905-852-7831 camps@town.uxbridge.on.ca

Junior Life Guard Camp 8:30 a.m. A great way to improve your stroke efficiency while learning lifesaving techniques and earning your Rookie, Ranger, Star or Bronze Star awards. Ages 10-12. $145/week Uxpool 905-852-7831 camps@town.uxbridge.on.ca Splash Camp 8:30 a.m. Aquasquirts, a play based aquatic program designed for children who have completed SK 3 or higher. Ages 6-10 Uxpool 905-852-7831 camps@town.uxbridge.on.ca Tuesday, March 16 Tour Camp 8:30 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday only. Participate in local activities around Uxbridge including skating, swimming, movie or bowling. Ages 9 to 13. $45/day Uxpool 905-852-7831 camps@town.uxbridge.on.ca March Break Mini Camp 9 a.m. March 16-18 Precious Minds respite program designed for kids with developmental disabilities. Social skills, fitness and nutrition, self-help and life skills in camp-pattern activities, games etc www.preciousminds.com 905-982-0882 St. Patrick's Day Storytime, Snack and Craft 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. Storytime, craft, shamrock sugar cookies and a keepsake St. Patrick's Day storybook. $15 at La Petite Fleur To register: Blue Heron Books 905-852-4282 or La Petite Fleur 905-862-3697

Wednesday, March 17 Boogie Boy Blues 2 p.m. Join Ron Beer, author and songwriter, for an entertaining show that combines a graphic novel, a music CD and the history of the blues. Grades 3 to 6. $4 Uxbridge Library 905-852-9747 www.uxlib.com Babysitters Training 9:30 a.m. All day course teaching skills for young people to be home alone or care for younger children. Snacks, a handbook, fist aid kit, and wallet-sized completion card included. Grades 6 to 9. $70 Uxbridge Library 905-852-9747 www.uxlib.com Green Cake 1 p.m. Happy Saint Patrick’s Day! Come to this class dressed in green from head to toe and decorate your very own green cake to take home. $12 Upstairs at Zehrs 905-852-5009 Thursday, March 18 Cinnammmmmon 1 p.m. Make fresh cinnamon buns from scratch. With a snack and easy-to-follow take home recipe you can be sure this class will be sweeeeeet! Upstairs at Zehrs 905-852-5009 Friday, March 19 Mexican Fiesta 1 p.m. Prepare a feast of hard and soft tacos, fresh guacamole, and refreshing punch, with a special treat at the end of class. Upstairs at Zehrs 905-852-5009

Staying young at heart with grandkids

By Sandy Johnston, Uxbridge Senior Citizens’ Club President

them and are on their side. The Uxbridge Senior Citizens’ Club has found It’s interesting to note the variety of roles the “fountain of youth,” I think. From our own grandparents play. Stress buffer, watchdog, members, one who always has a great smile and arbitrator, family historian and supporter. enjoys line dancing at the ripe old age of 91, or The intergenerational contact reflects a the fellow that works in Wal-Mart and plays online high value for family connection. video games with a 14-year-old in Europe, we are Grandchildren exposed to such contact are enjoying every minute of our lives. less fearful of old age and the elderly. They The influence of grandparents on grandchildren feel more connected to their families. has increased over the past few years and is a Whether you are playing an reflection of our increased life span; online game, just talking to your adults are living longer and four and grandchildren about their hopes five generations of the family are and dreams, they are helping more common. keeping you young. And seeing that Being there for your grandchildren is an important part of their young is important. Being there is a lives. concept that can mean physically or emotionally present. ___________________ Sandy Johnston left the beautiful town of Stouffville for the When you make phone calls, picturesque town of Uxbridge eight years ago. She is a attend concerts together or take retired employee of Choko Motorsports and has been them places, you are directly president of the Uxbridge Senior Citizens' Club for the past five years. Sandy has three children, five grandchildren and influencing your grandchildren. You three great-grandchildren. She loves bowling and traveling. become a role model for your them Sandy Johnston's great granddaughters when they know you’re there for Alyssa, 9, and Jeslyn, 4 them in any situation, are thinking of

We’re all armed with digital cameras nowadays, and most of us rely on taking dozens of photographs of the same subject and weeding out the worst to find the best. Here are some tips from the Internet’s top photography sites to help you snap a frame-worthy image.

Capturing a picture perfect photo 1. Get down on their level to capture smiles and gazes 2. Aim for a plain background when focusing on a subject 3. Check for trees, poles or other tall items sprouting from subject’s head 4. Use flash outdoors to lighten dark shadows under eyes and nose, and on cloudy days to brighten faces 5. Experiment with your camera’s macro setting and take some up close images 6. Go vertical: Tall buildings and friends standing up look better this way and add variety to your photographs 7. Invest in a tripod; it stabilizes the camera and prevents camera shake from unsteady hands 8. Fight your instinct to always centre photographs, and experiment with off-centre shots 9. Focus: So many photographs are ruined by blurriness. For most cameras, holding down the shutter button half-way automatically focuses the image 10. Be ready: Have your camera nearby and turned on so you’re ready to capture those fleeting shots, especially with young children 11. Avoid red eye by having your subject look at your shoulder instead of directly at the camera (turning on all the lights helps, too)

Top 10 mistakes of newbie photographers 1. Not reading the owners’ manual 2. Thinking the only way to get a certain picture is to buy special equipment 3. Not opening a picture on a computer and viewing it at 100% 4. Deleting pictures based on LCD monitor on the back of the camera 5. Shooting everything in Program or Auto Exposure mode 6. Buying too much camera for your level of experience 7. Not backing up pictures before deleting images on memory card 8. Not buying enough memory cards 9. Not buying enough batteries 10. Not researching the computer to determine post production capability SOURCE: www.picturecorrect.com, www.kodak.com, www.graceannouncements.com

Unlock the true YOU by discovering your hidden blocks with past life regression therapy/hypnosis

Practicing in Uxbridge 905-852-2601 As long as you hold on to the past, then you are stuck in the past. Let go of karma by forgiving - release it - let it go.

Have you ever felt something is happening to you in a physical or spiritual way that you don't understand, or feel something is different but can't quite put your finger on it? It can be a number ofphysical manifestations that can run much deeper, in ways you may not understand, into your metaphysical DNA. A visit to a past life regression/hypnosis practitioner that is a specialist in the metaphysical and whole life soul coaching will help you discover why you do what you do, and what you have come here to accomplish. “You will see there is no right or wrong,” says Angela Horne, “You just can’t see the whole picture – this will help find the big picture.” This treatment helps you get in touch with YOU: · Find out what those déjà vu moments mean · Explore your present life challenges and how pre-birth and past · Life memories affect your current and future life, all relationships. · Understand health issues related to preconceived ideas

· Challenges ofany disease that you have agreed to endure “Hidden blocks/fears can prevent you from moving forward with your life, including in business, socially and relationships,” Angela says. “Adults and young adults alike uncover issues related to stress, anxiety, depression and lack ofselfesteem, to name a few. Reconnecting your past lives and soul’s purposes is like connecting the dots, bringing you up to the present time and understanding ofone’s truth. “Everyone has ancient wisdom within them lying deep within that can be accessed today to assist you further on your journey and what life is really about,” Angela adds. “It’s not all about the destination, it’s about the journey. Experiencing a guided past life/this life recall session will help you understand who you really are and reconnect to your deepest self, to be the best YOU.” Book an appointment with Angela Horne at 905-8522601 or www.angelahornestudio.com Phone consultations and gift certificates available.

Be prepared before you travel

Where there is more in insurance than just policy

www.jamescampbellinsurance.com 33 Toronto St. N. 905-852-9191 or 1-888-354-6444

Here’s a true story: Uxbridge resident Dan was recently in Florida with his family on vacation when he was suddenly hit with kidney stones. His hospitalization, CT scan, doctor visits, medication and blood work in the U.S. cost more than $15,000. Thankfully his travel insurance covered everything. Had the family needed to stay longer, additional hotel fees, flight changes and food would also have been covered. As you make your March Break and other sunny vacation plans, make sure you and your family are protected while away. Travel coverage from James~Campbell Insurance Brokers includes emergency medical, trip cancellation and interruption, baggage loss, damage and delay, and more. James~Campell Insurance Brokers works with over 20 financially stable insurance partners to offer all types ofcoverage, including:

· Auto · Property · Business · Recreational · Life · Critical illness & disability · Travel · Employee benefits · Investments We are not a direct insurer or voice on the phone, but pride ourselves on having a personable, knowledgeable and professional team right here in our community. We’ve served residents from our Uxbridge and Mt. Albert locations for more than 30 years, and are actively involved in community activities. Next time you review your insurance needs or have questions or concerns, please call or visit our interactive website to request a quote, find after-hours claims numbers and more.

Helping small businesses get noticed online and beyond

At Sweet World Media, we specialize in helping new entrepreneurs and small businesses translate their vision into a compelling and innovative corporate identity. As a small business ourselves, we understand how challenging and overwhelming it can be to find the right way and have the right tools to market and advertise your product. We are a graphic-, web- and print-design firm with expertise in: · websites · social media including Facebook and Twitter · logo creation and branding · marketing · writing and editing · media contacts · business cards, flyers, brochures Getting that much-needed Internet presence has never been more affordable with our custom websites. We 16

Advertising Feature

design modern, distinctive sites that help you get noticed. With an award-winning journalist and accomplished graphic/web designer on staff, our diverse backgrounds help us to cover all your communication needs. We’re helping a growing number ofUxbridge businesses connect with residents on Facebook and Twitter. This is an excellent way to market your business, and connect with current and new customers for a very low cost. We can help you set up an email marketing list to create stylish and measurable online newsletters. Are you having a sale or event? Email newsletters reach your client base instantly, and are an innovative addition to traditional advertising. For more information, visit our portfolio at www.sweetworldmedia.com, email info@sweetworldmedia.com, or call 905-862-3566.