Uxbridge Town Talk - April 2010

Managing Editor: Carly Foster Art Director: Kirsty Kernohan

Copy Editor: Jodi Avery MacLean Editorial Assistants: Jennifer O'Donnell Shelby Stokes Contributors:

Sandy Johnston Keith Robinson

Jonathan van Bilsen

Contact Us

Phone: 647­476­3056

Email: info@uxbridgetowntalk.com www.uxbridgetowntalk.com Mailing Address:

Uxbridge Town Talk P.O. Box 1035 Uxbridge, ON L9P 1N3

On our cover:© Mark Hryciw | Dreamstime.com

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.

From The Publishers

Welcome to our green issue!

This month we celebrate Earth Day, which marks its 40­year anniversary on April 22. What launched as an environmental awareness event in the U.S. in 1970 now spans across the globe and is the largest environmental celebration worldwide. Canada joined the movement in 1990.

Earth Day is a powerful catalyst for change, and Uxbridge is doing its part by with a huge event planned for downtown. It includes spotlights on local food, local merchants showcasing their green products, services and practices, entertainment and music. As the sky darkens, the streets will be lit up by candlelight. Look for details in our packed April events calendar starting on page 10.

Bring your family, and see what our little corner of the world is doing to help preserve and protect the planet.

As a globe­trotting environmental journalist, we asked Uxbridge resident Stephen Leahy to share his philosophies to live greener locally. See what he had to say on page 5. And parents can use this month as a fun, educational time for kids with our neat list of green activities on page 17.

Did you know the arena has taken many measures to save energy? One of the Township's most recognized employees, Facilities Manager Bob Ferguson, chatted with us in this month's The business of article on page 7. Our green tribute is rounded out with our favourite environmentally friendly products found in Uxbridge (page 6).

We hope you enjoy our community spotlight on the IODE (page 17), delicious Mom's Kitchen recipe (page 18) and much more inside.

In early March we had a launch party to celebrate Uxbridge Town Talk's arrival in the community, and thank our friends and supporters (see photos on page 8). A special thanks to you, our readers, for your help in continuing to help us develop our voice in Uxbridge Township and celebrate this most wonderful place we all call home.

Uxbridge Town Talk is a Sweet World Media monthly

publication. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for the claims, views, opinions, comments or

advertisements herein. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement.

Uxbridge Town Talk does not endorse any advertised product, service or event. The Publisher is not responsible for any typographical errors. Advertisers are responsible for any copyright issues. No part of this publication may be

reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.

Copyright Sweet World Media 2009 ­ 2010. www.sweetworldmedia.com

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Recycle and compost what?

It's easy to remember what you can recycle and compost, but tricky to remember what you can't. Here are some common items left at the curb that must go in the garbage: ­nursery plant pots and ­plastic muffin and berry trays clam shells ­baby wipes & diapers ­take­out containers ­gum ­Styrofoam or paper ­pet waste coffee cups ­plastic egg cartons

Many local farms are now booking customers for their Community Supported Agriculture programs. When you buy into a CSA, you receive shares (produce, meat, eggs and sometimes dairy) in the farm's bounty – and share the risks due to weather and other factors beyond the control of the farmer. In­ season, fresh, local food has never been more accessible. There are several in Uxbridge Township. Log on to csafarms.ca or visit www.durhamfarmfresh.ca to find a local farmer near you.

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Protect the future of nature The World Wildlife Fund has more than 100 species of wild animals up for symbolic adoption – a perfect gift for the environmentalist or animal lover in your life.

Choose from the blue­footed booby, polar bear, great white shark or even a seahorse. www.worldwildlife.org.

Midwives for Haiti

From April 24­May 1, Uxbridge midwife Tiffany Haidon is traveling to earthquake­ravaged Haiti with an American organization called Midwives for Haiti. Here she will teach Haitian women much­needed obstetrical skills, as currently 76% of babies are delivered by unskilled women, and the country has the highest infant and maternal mortality rates in the western hemisphere.

Haidon is seeking any monetary donations or medical supplies such as antibiotics, dehydration salts, and vitamins. To help, contact 905­862­3535 or visit www.uxbridgecommunitymidwives.com.

Interview excerpts by Carly Foster Managing Editor

From his home in Uxbridge, environmentalist, independent environmental journalist and one­time federal Green Party candidate Stephen Leahy writes about the furthest reaches of our planet. We asked him to pull from his travels and experiences to share three philosophies we can use to gain a better understanding of our community and environment.

Get outside

Stephen Leahy on his recent trip to the Seychelles Islands

Take the time to be outside. We're becoming a very indoor culture. I hardly ever see kids playing outside. Walk more. In the evenings, go for walks to meet your neighbours. In poor countries, where people are always outside, they are very much aware of what's happening in their environment – far more than we are. (The other day) I was honked at for crossing the road downtown. That kind of attitude has to change. I just returned from the Seychelles Islands (an archipelago nation of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean). The roads are only one lane wide, with few exceptions, and there are no sidewalks. Few people own cards, and everyone walks on the road.

There are rarely accidents. They drive with an awareness that they are sharing the road with pedestrians.

Harness the Earth for energy

Wind farms are very common in many parts of Europe. They're generally situated away from where people live, on farms. Nobody objects to them, and they're integrated into the landscape. No one notices after a while.

Uxbridge would make a great spot for wind farms. And we can all benefit from the (recent weeks) of sunny weather. There are many new types of solar power that are flexible. I have something that hangs off my back deck for an hour or two and it charges my cell phone. We need to encourage and use alternative energy – but also not use energy in the first place.

Slow down

People need to take an opportunity to reexamine their lives. Why are we in such a big hurry? That's one of the reasons I switched careers from the corporate sector. I didn't want to be in that high­speed world where I was missing out on living. The future will not be like the past, and you have to prepare for changes.

Uxbridge would make a great spot for wind farms, says Leahy.

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Green Reading

A packed guide of all Canadian products and services you need to eco­fy your home while pocketing planet­friendly cash savings.

Includes a sustainable home checklist, green electronics, garbage­free living and growing your own veggies. $24.95 at Blue Heron Books

Parents will love the Tuck and Go diapering system from Uxbridge's own cloth diapering creators Monkey Doodlez. These soft and fuzzy bumbum covers accommodate multiple sizes and are crafted so you never have to touch soiled fabric again. Now that's something to celebrate.

$15 for covers, $30 for pack of three pads at www.monkeydoodlez.com

Wooden eating

One of the things we hate most about mall food courts and take out are the one­use plastic utensils. So we were thrilled to find these bamboo utensil sets and clip­on holder (made from recycled plastic bottles) by To­ Go Ware. Perfect for your purse, lunches and our planet. $14.95 at Elemi Organics

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Paper wallet for your paper money

This tear­ and water­resistant, recyclable wallet is made from express mail envelopes. It develops a classic, vintage look the longer one uses it. With funky designs including gorillas and subway maps, they satisfy the Earth and design lover alike. $14.95 at Presents, Presents, Presents

Safe, non-toxic spring (bathroom) cleaning

What we love most about Bio­ Life’s tub + tile soap scum + stain remover cleaner is how it doesn’t burn your lungs. Or your hands. Or your bathroom. Just phosphate­free, pear­violet scented, biodegradable, planet­ loving cleanliness. $4.49 at Shoppers Drug Mart

by Carly Foster Managing Editor

Who: Bob Ferguson, facilities manager, Township of Uxbridge

Where: Uxbridge arena and community centre, 291 Brock St. W.

By the numbers: First ice pad and community centre built in 1978; second ice pad added 1997. Approximately 600,000 people enter each year. Community centre rental is $600.

Environmental initiatives by the numbers: In 2007 the arena went through a behind­the­ scenes energy transformation that has since saved the Township $50,000­$60,000 a year.

Energy­efficient lights were installed in the second ice pad ($13,000 cost). Slow start attachments were added to the facility's compressors, which ramps them to full power over 3­5 seconds as opposed to right away like a light switch. This is not as hard on the equipment, resulting in savings. An infared 1000E ice temperature monitoring system was installed. The previous method would measure the temperature of the concrete pad as opposed to the actual ice. The new system pinpoints the required temperature – ­6 degrees Celsius – to within 1­2 Bob Ferguson, Uxbridge Township's facilities degrees, resulting in the ice freezing quicker (and less expensively). Finally, the system used to manager, shows some of the arena's new cool the compressors was changed from water to glycol. This is cleaner, does not require fresh green initiatives water, nor send used water down the drain. In 2010, energy saving lights will go in the first ice pad, while the furnace, roof­top units and hot water tanks will be replaced, at a cost of $200,000.

To do: The arena is open for hockey, figure skating and public skating August­June. From June­July, the ice comes out of both pads for summer lacrosse. During the summer, the entire facility is repainted, including stands, hallways and locker rooms. Boards and glass are repaired, while all the floors are stripped and waxed. The community hall is regularly rented for receptions, sales and parties.

Neat fact: Ferguson has worked for the Township since Grade 10, starting as a parks and recreation employee. Seven years ago he took over as head of parks, and two years ago added facilities to his roster of responsibilities. He's also a volunteer firefighter.

More info: 905­852­3081.

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We recently thanked our supporters and family with an Uxbridge Town Talk launch party upstairs at the Hobby Horse Arms. A special thank you to our readers: we love hearing from you, and your emails, phone calls, word­of­ mouth accolades and story ideas are why we do what we do.

David McDowell and Kristi Granti from Dentistry on Brock

L­R: Sandy Johnston and Gerri Lynn O'Connor

Our lovely cake, with our March cover. Thanks to Sugar FX for a helping it look great!

Carly enjoying the night

Jill Breugem of Market Moms Kim Mortson of Body Design Shopping Events

L­R: Kirsty, Uxbridge Mayor Bob Shepherd, Carly

Photographs by Randy Loewen of Stuido 4 Photography.

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L­R: Carly, Shelley Macbeth of Blue Heron Books, Kirsty

L­R: Some of the Uxbridge Town Talk team, Sandy Johnston, Carly Foster, Kirsty Kernohan, Shelby Stokes

Thursday, April 1

Stroller Fitness 10 a.m.

Easter Centerpiece Enjoy the outdoors in an interval program using bands 10 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. and your own body's resistance, this class is designed Create an all white arrangement for your holiday for the unique needs of moms and their stroller­age table, incorporating candles, hydrangea, roses, orchids children. $12/class. Until April 27. and fruit. $50 www.nrg4lifefitness.com admin@nrg2go.net www.lapetitefleur.ca 905­862­3697 Wednesday, April 7 Home Info Night 7 p.m.

Oak Ridges Trail Association Hike Are you selling/buying a house/cottage? Come out and 9:30 a.m. have our experts answer your questions regarding This is a 4+ hr., 14+ km moderate to fast pace loop new government rules and regulations. hike on the Glen Major Brock Tract. Meet at the 905­640­3966 or bnortheast@powergate.ca parking area on the east side of Uxbridge Conc. 6, 1.5 km north of Uxbridge town line or 5.5 km south of Friday, April 2 Durham 21. Lunch on the trail.

Russ Burton 905­830­2862 Gorgon Spring Fling 7 p.m.

Yoga & the Chakras Annual Spring Fling Dance featuring 3 Sheets 2 The 9:30 a.m.

Wind.

Learn Yoga postures and breathing techniques specific 905­852­5283 to each of the seven main energy centres in the body: the Chakras. $12/ class or $90 for full session. At Saturday, April 3 Uxpool until May 19.

416­571­0447 pathwaystopeaceyoga@hotmail.com Knitted Knockers 10:30 a.m.

Spring Bulb Planter These knitted breast prosthesis give women back that 10 a.m. personal power over how they chose to look. $45. On Created in a rectangle container, you will learn how to The Lamb, 53 Toronto St. N. create a mixed bulb planter in time to pick up your purl@onthelamb.ca www.onthelamb.ca spirits for spring!. $40. www.lapetitefleur.ca 905­862­3697 Sunday, April 4 Conversational French Siloam Orchards Giant Easter Egg Hunt 10 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

A new program for anyone in the community www.siloamorchards.com 905­852­9418 interested in taking part in an informal group format for dialogue in French.

Tuesday, April 6 www.uxlib.com 905­852­9747 Yoga for Health 1:30 p.m.

Increase your overall health and well being with Yoga.

Learn postures and breathing techniques to help heal the body, focus the mind and decrease stress. $12/each or $90 for full session. At Uxpool until May 18.

416­571­0447 pathwaystopeaceyoga@hotmail.com

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Meditation Classes 11 a.m.

Learn how to quiet the mind and experience meditation with a focus on healing. Specific healing and stress reducing meditation techniques will be introduced and practiced. $10 or $55. Uxpool. Until May 5.

416­571­0447 pathwaystopeaceyoga@hotmail.com

Volunteer Fair 6:30 p.m.

Meet the organizations in town looking for volunteers.

Great for teens looking for community hours! Held at the Township office.

905­640­3966 or bnortheast@powergate.ca

Learn to Run 6:30 p.m.

Designed for the "newbie" runner, participants will learn running techniques and training elements, including warm­ups, stretching, regulating pace and goal setting. $168 + GST for 10 weeks. Wed April 7 to June 23. www.bodydesign.ca 905­473­3888 Friday, April 9

Adult Hockey Tournament 8 a.m.

Weekend­long tournament at the Uxbridge arena.

905­852­3081

Taoist Tai Chi Open House 9 a.m.

Find balance and improve it at the same time. You'll reduce stress while increasing core strength, flexibility, stamina and balance. Free at Uxbridge Seniors' Centre. www.taoist.org robertl_hill@hotmail.com

This Month in Bloom...

10 a.m.

This club meets monthly to learn new design secrets and tricks of the trade! A pot luck appetizer style get together where good food and friends meet to be creative! Bring your own container and make a fresh floral arrangement to take home. $40. www.lapetitefleur.ca 905­862­3697 Socks! Socks! Socks!

10:30 a.m.

You thought that socks were hard...not so! We will teach you how to knit in the round, make a heel and end up with a wonderful woollen sock. $75 includes pattern, instruction and credit of $15 towards wool. www.onthelamb.ca 905­852­1944

Penquin Vest 1:30 p.m.

Fab, easy and cute as a button! Simple, cool in cotton and a flattering shape for everyone. $75 includes pattern, instruction and $30 credit towards yarn. www.onthelamb.ca 905­852­1944 Saturday, April 10

April Showers Luncheon & Cards Noon Lunch followed by cards or other board games. Cash bar. Tickets: $60 for a table of four or $20 each. Sold in advance only at Blue Heron Books, On The Lamb, and Presents, Presents, Presents. Uxbridge Seniors Centre, 75 Marietta St. 905­862­3035

Sunday, April 11 11 a.m.

Blue Heron Books' Books and Brunch spring series for April is Stephen Leacock award for humour winner, Terry Fallis. At Wyndance Golf Club. $20. www.blueheronbooks.com 905­852­4282 Monday, April 12

Tuesday, April 13 Girls on the Go 6:30 p.m.

This class will establish positive exercise routines, life­ long healthy habits and encourage a positive self image. $140 + GST. Until June 15. www.bodydesign.ca 905­473­3888 Spring Has Sprung Cooking Class 7 p.m.

Spring is here and what better than to have a spring dinner to usher in the season with style? Passionate Cook's Essentials kitchen shoppe, 53 Toronto St. N. $85 905­862­3359 www.thepassionatecook.ca

Gluten­free Cookies & Brownies 7 p.m.

Have you been struggling with gluten­free baking and getting it to work for you? Learn how to make adaptable recipes for cookies and brownies. $45. www.frankiesristorante.ca 905­852­1011 Thursday, April 15

Friendship Shawl 1:30 p.m.

Yoga for Runners You will learn simple increases ­ it's easy, fun and you 7 p.m. will amaze huge crowds! $65 includes pattern and The style of Vinyasa yoga connects postures and instruction and a credit of $30 towards wool. On The creates flow linking movement to breath. $140 + GST. Lamb, 53 Toronto St. N. Until June 21. www.onthelamb.ca 905­852­1944 www.bodydesign.ca 905­473­3888 Uxbridge Genealogy Group Pumping with Poles 7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

At the Uxbridge Library Lower Hall. This month's topic You already enjoy urban pole walking, so why not is what you can learn about your ancestry from DNA bring your workout to a new level? In this class, you’ll presented by John McLean. Everyone welcome. $2. build on the skills learned in “Pole Walkers for www.uxgen.net 905­852­6973 Beginners,” and take your cardiovascular workout even further. $80 + GST with poles, $140 + GST Men's Only Fitness without poles. Until June 7.

8 p.m. www.bodydesign.ca 905­473­3888 Tired of feeling like you’re competing at the gym but still want the benefits of a dynamic workout? Try our un­gym fitness class, where you can condition your

cardiovascular system, improve your core strength and tone your muscles in a relaxed, encouraging all­ male setting. $140 + GST. www.bodydesign.ca 905­473­3888 Saturday, April 17

Earth Day Clean Up at Goodwood Park 10 a.m.

Everyone welcome to assist. Weather permitting. Rain date April 24, 10 a.m.

905­640­3966 or bnortheast@powergate.ca Knitted Knockers 10:30 a.m.

See details April 3

Russel de Carle of Prairie Oyster plays Greenbank 8 p.m.

Greenbank Folk Music Society is delighted to present Prairie Oyster lead singer and Juno nominee, Russel de Carle. Greenbank Centennial Hall, Greenbank.

Tickets $20 available at Blue Heron Books.

905­985­8351 cartre@gmail.com Sunday, April 18

Oak Ridges Trail Association Hike 9:30 a.m.

This is a 3 hr. 10+ km moderate pace hike in Glen Major Forest. There is some hilly terrain. No dogs please. Meet at the parking lot 5 km south of Durham 21 on the east side of Durham 6th Conc.

Jill Doble 905­764­1673 Sit Means Sit Dog Training Open House Noon Sit Means Sit Dog Training, located at Greenbrier Farm, 1580 Brock Rd. Meet our trainer, get great advice on how to reach your training goals. www.sitmeanssituxbridge.com 352­789­3058 (continued on page 12)

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(continued from page 12)

3rd Annual Canadian Tire Ladies Night 6:30 p.m.

A night of free fun showcasing what we have to offer to women as we head into spring. Come see the store full of ladies learning about new innovative products/services, winning great prizes and understanding that Canadian Tire is not just a men's store. Featuring CityTV's Frankie Flowers.

327 Toronto St. S. 905­852­3315 Thursday, April 22

Uxbridge Earth Day Candlelight Party 4 p.m.

Check out local merchants' and farmers' green products, services and practices. Lots of green activities for the family. Entertainment, food and more. Grand finale: The downtown will be lit up by candlelight!

Blue Heron Books 905­852­4282

Five @ 58 Open House 4 p.m.

Unearth the real you with organic products, Chinese medicine and accupuncture, photo booking, natural healing and yoga. Try our services for free, and enter to win a $500 grand prize.

905­852­5575.

Friday, April 23

Socks! Socks! Socks!

10:30 a.m.

See details April 9 Penquin Vest 1:30 p.m.

See details April 9

Saturday, April 24

Rd and High Point Rd. Lunch following. Meet at Albright Rd. and the 6th Conc., just south of North Walker Woods.

David Francis 905­936­4446 Monday, April 26

Udora play group 10 a.m.

For parents and their kids ages 0­6. Tuesday and Thursday at the Udora Community Centre Marni 705­228­8114

Tuesday, April 27

Euchre 7:30 p.m.

All are welcome for a fun evening of cards and prizes every Friday.

Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905­852­5293

Dress Rehearsal for Competition 7:45 p.m.

Come watch the Pineridge Chorus of Sweet Adelines International practice for competition. The show will last approximately 15 minutes at the Music Hall.

905­852­7562 Uxbridge Chamber of Commerce Business Breakfast 7:15 a.m.

Business and community representatives are welcome to join a breakfast meeting to enjoy networking and guest speakers featured monthly. $15 non­chamber members $10 current chamber members.

905­852­7683 www.uxcc.ca Gil Penalosa 1 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Gil Penalosa provides an inspirational presentation about creating better and healthier communities. Free event, but you must RSVP. 905­852­7831 info@town.uxbridge.on.ca

Taste of Thai Cooking Class 7 p.m.

If you are looking for authentic Thai cuisine, then stop right now. Recipes from well known Thai chefs and will not disappoint. Passionate Cook's Essentials kitchen shoppe, 53 Toronto St. N $85. www.thepassionatecook.ca 905­862­3359 Wednesday, April 28

As We See It 1 p.m.

Local resident Chuck Taylor describes his adventures in the Warm Heart of Africa. Refreshments included. $2.

Uxbridge Library 905­852­9747 www.uxlib.com

8th annual Uxbridge Huck Fin Youth Fishing Day 9:15 a.m.

The parade starts at 9:15 at Elgin Pond, followed by fishing and fun. To register, pick up a ribbon at any of the following locations or at the pond on event day: Friday, April 30 Uxbridge Canadian Tire, Blue Heron Books, Uxbridge Legion, Presents, Presents, Presents or Uxpool.

Spring Serenade 7:30 p.m.

Speed Reading Workshop Uxbridge One Voice Singers' spring concert at St. 10:30 a.m.

Paul's Anglican Church. $15. Kids under 10 free.

Learn the process of eliminating the reading barriers Tickets at Presents, Presents, Presents or at the door. that slow us down, especially when we wish to cover 905­852­0770 www.onevoicesingers.org certain material quickly.

Uxbridge Library 905­852­9747 www.uxlib.com Regular Events Sunday, April 25

Uxbridge Half Marathon 9 a.m.

This is a charity event in support of the Uxbridge Cottage Auxiliary 21.1 km, 10 km, 5km family run/walk & kids dash.

Spectacular courses on scenic trails and country roads. $5,000 in diamonds to be won! www.uxbridgehalfmarathon.com 905­852­9771 ext.

5237

Oak Ridges Trail Association Hike 10 a.m.

This is an 8.5 km hike along Albright Rd. to Ashburn

That Summer April 8­17 OnStage Uxbridge presents That Summer, a play by David French.. At the Uxbridge Music Hall. www.onstageuxbridge.com 905­904­0895

Family Play to Learn Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 9 a.m., Thursdays 9:15 a.m.

Drop­in and registered play time and crafts. No fee. Durham Farm Family and Rural Family Resources 905­862­2750 x 310 www.durhamfamilyresources.org

Bingo 7:30 p.m.

Great jackpots every Thursday.

Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905­852­5293

Meditation 7 p.m.

Bring comfortable cushions. Admission by donation. First and third Thursday at Siloam Hall 905­852­9974 STAND 3­4 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 905­862­3456 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 on Sundays. www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905­852­2782 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 905­852­4750 Flow Yoga 6 p.m.

Experience stress­release, inspiration and ease in this all levels drop­in yoga class. Wednesdays. www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905­852­2782 Phatcamp Bootcamp Tuesdays 6 a.m. & 5 p.m. Wednesday 6 a.m., Thursday 6 a.m. & 5 p.m. at Uxpool.

905­852­4774 www.committofitness.net Indoor Cycling 10 a.m.

An indoor spinning class taught by certified Madd Dog Instructor Brenda Ostermaa. At Range Of Motion Studio. $7.50. Fridays.

705­437­2196 fitnessnrg@hotmail.com We reserve the right to edit for space. We are not responsible for errors or omissions. We 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)

By Sandy Johnston Special to Uxbridge Town Talk

The quilting ambassadors

Thank you Sue Carmichael for your great work with Uxbridge quilters, regarding the profile in the March issue of Uxbridge Town Talk. I would like to share our group of ladies that have helped our community working from the Uxbridge Senior Citizens’ Club as well as joining Quilters Cupboard for many fund raising events.

I do not know where they get the energy, as these beautiful ladies are, let’s say, past 80 years old and all have very active family lives. They truly are ambasadors of the Ubridge Senior Citizens’ Club and I hope they are still available long after I have moved on.

“Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.”

Lao­Tzu, Chinese philosopher

The Uxbridge Senior Quilters create so much kindness in our community.

Since I became a member of the Uxbridge Senior Citizens’ Club, the quilters have always been a mystery as to why they come into the Centre five days a week from 12 to 4 p.m.

They profess to enjoy quilting and that they are doing it to keep busy, but over the years I have seen them complete baby and lap size quilts, to huge, oversized quilts with very difficult stitching. They accept partially made quilts from members, non members, seniors and folks that have heard about them from friends or a local quilt shop. They have worked on quilts their grannies had kept in a closet or keepsake chest for many years and smelt like moth balls. They charge just $2 per hour, per person, working on each keepsake.

They keep records of the number of hours they spend each day and charge as quoted.

Their favourite quilts are the completed works that are donated. They donate one quilt per year to the Jennifer Ashley Children's Charity,which is raffled off to help needy children. They donate one quilt to our club for raffle, and help organize our yearly bazaar, by collecting, baking, knitting, and donating.

They also help sell yearly memberships, dinner tickets, dance tickets, meet new members and introduce them to our club. They have a craft area where folks donate completed handmade items, which they then sell to support our club.

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L­R: Enda Archibald, Margaret McNelly, Ruby Christiansen of the Uxbridge Senior Quilters. The ladies hand­stitch everything. ___________________

Sandy Johnston left the beautiful town of Stouffville for the picturesque town of Uxbridge eight years ago. She is a retired employee of Choko Motorsports and has been president of the Uxbridge Senior Citizens' Club for the past five years. Sandy has three children, five grandchildren and three great­grandchildren. She loves bowling and traveling.

by Jonathan van Bilsen Special to Uxbridge Town Talk

Sitting quietly under a large, shade tree, waiting patiently for a hawk or deer to come within range, requires patience not common to the average person. When, finally the animal makes an appearance, you slowly raise your camera to eye level and slide your finger softly on the shutter to capture that award winning photograph.

This scenario is shared by hundreds of would­be wildlife photographers on their never­ ending quest to achieve the perfect shot.

Wildlife photography is one of the most rewarding forms of picture making and is also one of the most challenging. Unlike traditional portrait or landscape photography, in wildlife your subject moves continuously and rarely performs the way you anticipate.

Fortunately camera manufacturing has evolved to allow photographers to successfully capture on disk, animals and birds in their natural habitat without spending days of tracking and cursing. In order to get that ‘faultless’ image a few rules must be followed.

First and foremost the right equipment is a

necessity. A sturdy, weather resistant tripod is a must. Lots of batteries and memory cards are essential and most importantly the camera has to be up to the task. A digital SLR with a very fast shutter speed and the ability to set a high ISO is crucial. Fortunately the new line of full frame cameras by Canon, Sony and Nikon are ideal for the charge. Lastly, and possibly the most important element, is patience.

Before you begin you must know where to locate animals. Whether on the Serengeti plains of Africa or deep within the Durham forest of Uxbridge, having knowledge of how animals behave is an asset.

Find a spot and park yourself until the wildlife comes into view.

Leaving appropriate food can draw animals to specific locations. Well known bird photographer, Bobby Brown, will carry mice to attract owls. Arctic wildlife photographer James Wanuki, always has and abundant supply of fruit and nuts.

Regardless of the challenges and obstacles nothing beats capturing that ‘perfect’ photograph of a wild animal in its natural habitat. ___________ Jonathan van Bilsen is an internationally traveled photographer and author.

He is co­owner of Studio 4 photography, a group of north Durham professional photographers. www.studio4photography.ca

by Keith Robinson Special to Uxbridge Town Talk

Our digital lives could use the same kind of spring cleanout as our physical homes. Here's a quick guide.

Get your email under control Chances are this is where your biggest digital mess lies, which makes it a great place to start.

Empty your inbox. Completely. Take anything that's been languishing and either deal with it, delete it or file it away. Once your inbox is clean, take a stab at organizing your folders.

Organize your desktop An organized digital life means a clean desktop. It's easy to let things pile up there: downloads, working files, photos etc. If you let them, they will pile up, just like papers on your real desktop. Take some time to clean it off.

Organize, archive and delete In addition to the mess on your desktop you may have a mess of internal files that need going through. I've got two words for you: archive and delete. Go through your files and find those that you need to keep but may not need on a regular basis. Archive those. You may very well also have files that you'll never need again and have no business holding onto. Delete those.

Make Backups and Do Maintenance Once you've got everything organized, take some time to back up essential files and do any system maintenance. Run a defrag, update your operating system, uninstall unneeded programs, etc. ___________ D. Keith Robinson is an associate editor of Lifehacker, an award­winning daily blog that features tips, shortcuts, and downloads that help you get things done smarter and more efficiently. lifehacker.com

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Attention boaters: Don't get caught without your license!

Where there is more in insurance than just policy www.jamescampbellinsurance.com 33 Toronto St. N. 905­852­9191 or 1­888­354­6444

As the warm weather sets in, remember that all boat operators – regardless ofage or the boat's horsepower – must carry proofofcompetency or risk a $250 fine.

The Pleasure Craft Operator Card is the easiest way to do this. Boaters complete a one-time, Transport Canada accredited safety test and are licensed.

Besides the PCO Card, proofofcompetency can include also having successfully completed a boat safety course in Canada prior to April 1999, or completion ofa rental-boat safety checklist for powerdriven rental boats.

James~Campell Insurance Brokers works with over 20 financially stable insurance partners to offer all types ofcoverage, including: Advertising Feature

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· 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.

Community spotlight: The IODE

By Carly Foster Managing Editor

Make the lead up to Earth Day on April 22 extra educational this year with a month of environmentally friendly tips and activities for your kids.

The simplest but most powerful way to show the impact of nature is growing seeds. Try this cute and quick eggshell planter and watch the green – and delight! – grow:www.crafts.kaboose.com/egghead.html

Learn about Uxbridge's history with a tour of the Uxbridge Historical Centre at 7239 Conc. 6 www.uxbridgehistoricalcentre.com Instead of running the water each time you wash up – which is a lot with children – fill the sink with water and use it to get wet and rinse

Dedicate one hour a day to read books instead of watching TV or playing video games

Find a local farm or country store, and learn about where our food really comes from (it's not the grocery store!) with the Durham Farm Fresh website at www.durhamfarmfresh.ca The snow is gone: See what was hidden all winter long! Collect old leaves, twigs, pine cones and more and make a spring wreath for the front door

Calculate your carbon footprint with the World Wildlife Fund's calculator. How many planets will it take to support yours? www.footprint.wwf.org.uk

What better way to instill a love for the environment at an early age than to get out and see it. Take a walk on one of Uxbridge's beautiful trail system to see the buds grow, birds chirp, and world come alive this spring www.town.uxbridge.on.ca/canada_trail_capital SOURCES: www.earthday.org, www.planetpals.com, www.ec.gc.ca

Renowned for their philanthropy, cooking and heritage, the Imperial Order Daughters of the Empire (IODE) is one of the oldest service clubs in Uxbridge.

Nationally, the organization was formed in 1900 to promote patriotism, loyalty and service to others. The group's oldest member, in her nineties, joined the organization as a teenager.

Sheila Weekes, president, and Sandra Will, co­services officer, said the group used to sew for WWII soldiers in the room above the Sears store at the corner of Brock and Toronto streets.

The IODE's focus is on education and women, and the feisty, active group of 34 dedicated ladies take this to heart with a host of different charities. Most recently, the IODE has been putting together 75 'Fresh Start' baskets to celebrate the club's 75th anniversary in Uxbridge. These baskets include much­ needed kitchen items and non­perishable food for women getting a new start in Durham Region shelters. This submitted photo shows members recently putting baskets together.

Coming up on April 10 is the IODE's April Showers card party and luncheon. See our events calendar on page 10 for more details. The group is always looking for new members; please call Elaine Barrie at 905­862­3035 for more information.

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This was one of my favourite and often足requested meals when my mom asked what I wanted for dinner. What I love about food and meals in general, especially now that mom my is gone, is that the scent while cooking wafting through the house reminds me of her and the family life we had growing up. We always ate dinner as a family, and it was a time to chat, reconnect and share our days with each other.

I suggest doubling or tripling the recipe and freezing some for another night.

Sit down with your family this month and enjoy the meal and each other.

Chicken Cacciatore Serves 4足6

2 lbs. of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed 2 tsp. flour 2 tbsp. oil 1 10 ounce can of condensed tomato soup 3/4 cup of dry red wine (optional) 1 medium onion, sliced 1/2 tsp. each of basil, oregano, salt 2 gloves garlic, minced 1 bay leaf 1 green pepper, sliced 1 cup mushrooms, sliced Directions

Wash chicken. Coat chicken with flour. In a large deep frying pan brown chicken in oil. Add remaining ingredients, except peppers and mushrooms. Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes. Transfer into a large pan and add green peppers, mushrooms and cook on low for 30 minutes. Remove bay leaf.

Serve over noodles.

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