u x b r i d g e t o w n t a l k . c o m december 2011 // www.uxbridge towntalk.com
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contents
VOLUME 3 ISSUE 12 / DECEMBER 2011
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Town Talk Tidbits
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Your Community A read Through The Library’s 125 Years
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History Lesson Library Timeline
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Your December Community Calendar
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How-To dreaming of a Green christmas
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Local Products All That Glitters
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From My Mom’s Kitchen The mcdougall Oatmeal cake
STAFF
brittany Sherrard
CONTRIBUTORS elizabeth Acton randy Loewen COVER PHOTO © Garret bautista | dreamstime.com
The Sweet World Media Team
toWn tALk tidbits Fireplace Dangers
That december chill is in the air, prompting you to crank up the fireplace for a cozy afternoon at home. but be careful: your little one could seriously injure themselves on the scalding glass barrier. Two seconds is all it takes for a serious burn, so make sure you block off the area, educate kids on the dangers, and keep them supervised at all times.
H20 Facts
did you know that less than one per cent of the world’s fresh water is available for human consumption? On average, we use nearly 2,000 gallons of water in one day alone. The more water each of us saves, the more water we leave for healthy ecosystems and a sustainable future. remember this next time you brush your teeth, and recognize that it does make a difference.
Blankets of Love
Have a blanket folded up in a closet you know you’ll never use? donate it to Project Linus, which provides security through blankets to seriously ill or traumatized children from newborn to 18. drop yours off at blue Heron books at 62 brock St. W., or call durham region chapter coordinator Petra dettmann at 905 655 6930.
Q&A With... Lucy: capturing the magic of christmas mANAGING edITOr: carly Foster creATIVe dIrecTOr: Kirsty Kernohan SALeS mANAGer: rebecca cranney GrAPHIc deSIGNer: matt Filion rePOrTING & edITING: dana Kenedy INTerNS: rachel Pavely,
We’ve taken an informal poll the past few weeks of our friends, family and coworkers, asking what this time of year means to them. memories. Family. Food. Love. Stress. excitement. Kids. Presents. Stress. Stress. more stress. It’s sad that the holidays have become a time of anxiety for us, when we’re worrying about the perfect gift, perfect dinner or perfect outfit. When I asked the girls in our office what this month’s message should be about, everyone said the same thing: make sure to slow down, and enjoy the holidays. enjoy your family, especially if you have kids. read the Q&A with my 5-year-old to remember that magic and innocence. Plan some outings with our packed community calendar. Spend less time thinking about stuff, and think green instead with our ideas. And From my mom’s Kitchen brings you a delicious and easy oatmeal cake that will make entertaining a breeze. Happy Holidays from our family to yours. enjoy!
CONTACT US
Pick up copies at: Zehrs, Blue Heron Books, Township office, Uxbridge & Zephyr libraries, Elemi Organics, The UPS Store, the Tin Cup and more.
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your community
A Read Through the Library’s 125 years by elizabeth Acton Photos courtesy of the Uxbridge-Scott museum and Archives
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u x b r i d g e t o w n t a l k . c o m december 2011 // www.uxbridge towntalk.com
he mechanic’s Institute, The Joseph Gould Institute, The Uxbridge Public Library – whatever you call it, the landmark building at brock and Toronto Street is celebrating 125 years in 2012. The first mechanic’s Institute was established in 1831 for the instruction and recreation of the artisan classes with lectures, a library, museum, courses of lessons, and more. In 1859, the Uxbridge mechanic’s Institute was established under the direction of local apothecary Henry duncan Hetherington. Hetherington was librarian from 1859 until 1862, when he died suddenly, shortly after the birth of his youngest son. Following his death, the mechanic’s Institue ceased to operate and the stock of 143 books were moved to Joseph dickey’s office, where they were
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The Uxbridge Public LIbrary as we know it today.
housed until 1873. Joseph Gould offered the site for the current building, but died in 1886 before he could see it to fruition. Gould’s executors were directed in his will to “complete the [mechanic’s Institute] according to the plans and in the manner intended by me and pay the costs of doing so out of my personal estate and after completion of the same make a gift thereof to the corporation of the town of Uxbridge.” The new building was completed in the fall of 1887, and boasted an upstairs living quarters for the librarian. Officially opened on dec. 9, 1887, the building was constructed for $4,200 and contained more than 5,000 books. many mechanic’s Institutes became public libraries, including the Uxbridge Institute, which made the tranistion in may 1895 under the librarianship of Sarah d. Willis (Hughes). In 1902, the library inspector declared the
library to be in good order, with the exception of a few books needing new binding. However, he was concerned the weight of the books was causing the floor to settle and decided more support was needed. In 1913, the library saw its first renovation and repainting and in the fall of 1921, the wooden building at the south end of the library was replaced with a more substantial structure. The town’s library continued to grow and cutting edge technology of the day by way of adjustable shelves were implemented in 1940. In 1949 an assistant librarian was hired, offsetting the workload of the head librarian.
BE MINDFUL OF BURNING CANDLES THIS FESTIVE SEASON Some Helpful Tips For The Holiday Season Keep an eye on candles, fireplaces and woodstoves to prevent fires. Don’t forget to remove snow and ice from all driveways and walkways. And always drive with care during the inclement weather. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Please contact me if you would like to review your current policy. Ron Noble Insurance proudly represents..
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Library Timeline 1859 – Mechanic’s Institute established in Uxbridge, meetings held in various locales. Henry Duncan Hetherington was hired as the first librarian for the Mechanic’s Institute. 1962 – H.D. Hetherington dies suddenly. 1862 – Joseph Dickey stored 143 books until the Institute became active again.
History Lesson
1873 – The Institute re-opens with 12 Corporate members and 32 Ordinary members. 1873 – James Walks hired as librarian. 1875 – Dennis Jennings, teacher and principal of the Public School, was also as librarian for the M.I.
Continued on Page 6 An Uxbridge Public LIbrary card from 1905.
1986 doubling the existing library space, and provided patrons with modern services in comfortable surroundings while blending architecturally with the existing library. This addition was completed in 1987, marking the Centennial of the Joseph Gould Institute. From its early beginnings, to the present day, the Uxbridge Public Library has served and continues to serve the residents of Uxbridge and surrounding hamlets. The library’s collection has increased from 143 books in 1862 to more than 64,406 books between both the Zephyr and Uxbridge branch today. The Uxbridge Public Library is also home
to more than just books –CDs, audio books, ebooks, DVDs, GPS, and computers with access to the internet are available to card holders. As the library gets set to celebrate 125 years in 2012, we can only wonder what the next 125 years will bring. Join us in January for our kick-off celebrations and birthday cake as we commemorate Joseph Gould’s gift to the town of Uxbridge and the building we call home: The Uxbridge Public Library. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. For a more comprehensive history of the Uxbridge Public Library, stop by the Genealogy Department and browse the history of the library through our scrapbook collection.
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1952 saw further expansion of the library, with the addition of the Children’s Department, made possible by a bequest from the estate of the late Rosetta Alberta Harrison. February 1959 marked the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Mechanics Institute. At this time the library was home to 8,779 books, with 875 borrowers. In 1981, the Uxbridge Public Library was declared an historic building. Exterior renovations took place in 1985 including cleaning the bricks, putting wooden shingles on the roof and restoring the paint to its original colour. An expansion to the library was added in
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1880 – 2,323 books in the Library. 1881 – William B. Russell, a carriage painter, becomes librarian.
George Willis, looks after the library when her husband becomes ill.
ian, moving out of the library quarters in 1977.
1895 – The Mechanic’s Institute becomes the Uxbridge Public Library.
1974 – Margaret O’Regan was the first librarian to hold a degree in Library Science, and an integral force in the 1986/87 addition.
1886 – Death of Joseph Gould. 1887 – Mechanic’s Institute (Joseph Gould Institute) grand opening December 9, 1887, boasting 5,000 books in the Library. 1890 – George Willis hired as librarian. 1893 – Sarah D. Willis (Hughes), wife of
1907 – After the death of Sarah Willis, daughter-inlaw Elizabeth Willis (Hughes) becomes librarian for one year. 1908 – Marshall L. Nutting succeeds Elizabeth Willis as librarian. 1911 – Sarah Priscilla Nutting (Jones) looked after the library following her husband’s death. 1920 – Joseph E. Littlejohn, principal of the public school, and treasurer for the Township of Uxbridge, becomes librarian. 1938 – Ella Gillfillan (Goetz), widow of the late Wm. George Gillfillan, and her two sons moved into the library quarters and filled the position of librarian. 1942 – Pearle St. John (Barber) served on the library board before becoming the librarian. 1959 – 8,779 books in the Library. 1963 – Agnes Arbuckle was the last resident librar-
u x b r i d g e t o w n t a l k . c o m december 2011 // www.uxbridge towntalk.com
The Mechanic’s Institute was established in 1859 and held meetings in various locales.
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1987 – By the end of 1987, the addition to the Joseph Gould Institute has been completed and is architecturally a blend of new and old. 1988 – Gail Peers worked for the Georgina Bookmobile service, and earned her Library Technicians diploma from Seneca College. She helped open and run the Goodwood Branch, and came to work in Uxbridge when the Goodwood Branch closed. 2011 - Since the computer age, 19,576 people have held library cards. Born and raised in Uxbridge, Elizabeth Acton is a graduate of the Ontario College of Art and Design. She is currently pairing her research skills gleaned from OCAD with her knowledge and love of local and family history in the Genealogy Department at the Uxbridge Public Library.
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Lucy: Capturing the Magic of Christmas By Carly Foster Portrait by Randy Loewen
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his summer my daughters went to Santa’s Village in Bracebridge with my parents and have been obsessed with Christmas and Santa ever since. For our December issue, we wanted to capture the magic of the season through the eyes of a child, and Lucy, 5, couldn’t wait to share her expertise... Where does Santa live? In the North Pole.
What does Santa do when he’s not building toys? He doesn’t build toys – the elves do! He watches the kids. He sometimes goes to stores to buy toys, ‘cause he gets deals. Sometimes maybe Mrs. Claus and the elves give presents to Santa. How does Santa watch you? Maybe he has super eyes and he can see you. Or maybe he has a telescope that he looks through to look at all of you.
What else do you know about Santa? How does Santa get to all the houses? He trims his beard in the summer when it’s really reOn his sleigh with his magic. The reindeers help ally warm out. Then in the in the winter it’s long and too. They have magic dust so they can fly. Santa helps him stay warm. puts it on them. What do you want for Christmas? What does... A butterfly Barbie. Some cozy sweaters. Some winter Oh! I know how Rudolph gets his nose red. He is dresses, cause I really like wearing dresses. And a a special reindeer and he eats cherries to make model for me to make with Daddy. Oh, and candy his nose red. Heehee. I just made that up. When canes and stickers. it’s really hot out, Ruldolph’s nose isn’t red. It has to be cold for it to be red. Rudolph has a warm What about Alice? And Spencer? nose like sunshine leading Santa’s way. He makes A Barbie mermaid. Spencer should get dog bones the way lighter for Santa to see. and dog treats and dog food and dog toys. Is Santa married? Yes, he’s married with Mrs. Claus.
Q&A With...
L-R Sisters Alice, 3, and Lucy, 5 can’t wait for Santa to stop by with his reindeer.
What about seeing your family at Christmas? I like it when everyone comes for a sleepover! I also like the Christmas decorations – it’s exciting! And I love the beautiful Christmas tree and lights outside.
What should Mumma and Daddy get for Christmas? Mumma should get some high heel shoes. And some How does it make me feel? Do they have any kids? Happy! And I really really want to see Santa shampoo. And Daddy should get his own shampoo. The elves! The elves are their kids. Claus in the sky with his reindeers. But I And some models to build. won’t be able to see him or else he won’t How many does he have? come. Maybe I can leave him a note and ask What’s your fave part about Christmas? Maybe 12? Maybe more than 12. Maybe google I like getting presents. I can tell by the presents if him to leave me a picture of him in the sky elves! Santa has come, and if the milk and cookies and beer with his reindeers. and carrot are gone.
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december community calendar Monday Morning Singers Celtic Christmas Concert Special guests Kenneth Welsh reads Uxbridge Toy Drive All toys collected in Uxbridge go to Uxbridge families. Toy Drop Irish poetry and stories, Chris Saunders, guitar, Michelle Charlton, fiddle, Patrick Hayward, locations for this year are: Canadian Tire, McDonald’s, Zehrs. Walmart, M&M’s Boston bodhran, Brynn Hopper, Irish dancer and harpist Gwyneth Reid. Pizza, Carstar behind Petro Canada, and Bruins home games. Donations accepted Time: 7:30 p.m. until Dec. 23. Where: St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 65 Toronto St. S. Time: Various Contact: 905 852 3693 Where: Participating locations www.mmsingers.org Contact: www.uxbridgetoydrive.com info@uxbridgetoydrive.com Youth Dance “Winter’s Here” Youth Dance Movie Night: First Grader The story of a for Grades 4 to 8. Snacks and drinks are proud Kenyan man determined to learn to available for $1 each. This fundraiser is hosted read and write. He joins a class of six-year- by the Uxbridge Youth Choir. $7. Time: 7 p.m. olds and both he and the teacher face Where: Uxbridge Arena, 291 Brock St. W. fierce resistance. PG-13. Contact: 905 852 2913 Time: 7 – 8:45 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Public Library, 9 Toronto St. S. Saturday, December 3 3rd Annual Past & Presents Artisan Holiday Contact: 905 852 9747 www.uxlib.com Show Support local artisans with ideas for 12 Months to Health Speaker Series The your holiday gift giving and decor needs. Featuring a variety of hand painted decor, Complete You! Nicole Scott, Passion for Nutrition, Susan Ward, Pathways to Peace, jewelry, accessories, candles, refreshments and more. Free. Yoga & Healing and Sarah Terrion, NRG 4Life give an overview of healthy living Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. from a physical, mental and nutritional Where: Uxbridge Historical Centre, point of view. 7239 Concession 6 Time: 7:30 – 8:45 p.m. Contact: 905 862 3234 Where: Pathways to Peace Yoga & Healing, pastandpresentsuxbridge@yahoo.com 58 Brock St. W., suite 204 Contact: 416 571 0447 Oh Susanna Oh Susanna brings her strong, pathwaystopeaceyoga@hotmail.com haunting voice to Greenbank. Tickets at Blue Heron Books. $25. Time: 8 – 11:30 p.m. Friday, December 2 Optimist Christmas Tree Sales Find your Where: Greenbank Centennial Hall, 19965 Highway 7 & 12 perfect Christmas Tree. Funds raised go towards local youth activities. Until Dec. 24. Contact: 905 852 5019 mgalberg@gmail.com Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday, December 4 Where: Canadian Tire, 327 Toronto St. S. Carols by Candle Light A night filled with Contact: www.uxbridgeoptimist.com cross section of Christmas music, Christmas john.n.wilson@sympatico.ca
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Thursday, December 1
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stories, and sing along Carols. Invited guest performers include One Voice Uxbridge Singers, Violinist Victoria Ioanou, Solo Singer Hayden Kerry, Pianists Anthony Holt, and Michael Hardock. Time: 7:30 p.m. Where: Goodwood United Church, 3999 Front St., Goodwood Contact: 905 862 3774
Monday, December 5
5 Year Itch Wine & Food Tasting Event Join us as we celebrate five years! Five wines. Five food stations. One memorable evening. Tickets on sale now at Tin Mill. Great giveaways! Time: 6 – 9 p.m. Where: Tin Mill Restaurant, 53 Toronto St. N. Contact: 905 862 0553 www.tinmill.ca Holiday Wellness & Shopping Party Come out and try a healthy smoothie and a free mini facial while you shop for the holidays. Proceeds donated to The Uxbridge Youth Centre. Preregister to receive your goodie bag of treats and two free raffle tickets. $2. Children free. Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Where: Sandford Community Centre, 433 Sandford Sdrd. Contact: www.mommytimeoutparties.com simplesolutionscanada@gmail.com
Tuesday, December 6
Love of Reading Drop-in book chat for working folks on lunch break or anyone looking for a daytime outing. Discuss what you have read or find something new to read. Brown bag lunch with drinks provided. Time: noon – 2 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Public Library, 9 Toronto St. S.
Custom designed cakes, cookies & petite treats facebook.com/kake.uxbridge
kakebykathryn@gmail.com 905.852.5577
december community calendar
Thursday, December 8
Yoga for the Hungry A gentle yoga class in exchange for a nonperishable food item. All donations going to Loaves and Fishes Food Bank. Do something good for yourself and others Time: 6 – 7 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Dance & Yoga Studio, 9 Sandy Hook Rd. Contact: 905 862 4111 www.uxbridgedanceyoga.ca Uxbridge Genealogy Group Christmas meeting, members night, when you can tell others about your successes and brick walls. All welcome. Bring Christmas delights if you desire. 50/50 draw. $2. Time: 7 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Public Library, 9 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 862 0915 www.uxgen.net
Saturday, December 10
Organic Gingerbread House Decorating We are proud to announce our first ever organic candies gingerbread house decorating class. Time: 1 – 2 p.m. Where: Zehrs Community Room, 323 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 852 5009 One Voice ‘Joyous Noel’ Christmas Concert Directed by Charles White. Uxbridge Youth Choir also performing, directed by Jennifer Neveu-Cook as our guest. $15. Children under 12 free. Tickets at Presents, Presents, Presents. Time: 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Trinity United Church, 20 First Ave.
Contact: 905 985 7259 www.onevoicesingers.org
Sunday, December 11
Gingerbread House Decorating Come celebrate the Holidays by decorating your very own gingerbread house! All supplies are included, just reserve your spot today! All ages. Also on Dec. 17. Time: 1 – 2 p.m. Where: Zehrs Community Room, 323 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 852 5009
Wednesday, December 14
Uxbridge Horticultural Society Pot luck Christmas supper with installation of executive and annual award presentations. Bring your favourite dish, and place setting. Time: 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Senior’s Centre, 75 Marietta St. Contact: 905 985 6516 www.uxbridgehorticulturalsociety.com
Thursday, December 15
Fantasy of Lights A Christmas Wonderland Light Extravaganza. Multiple displays throughout the park. Drive or walk through. Free admission. Donations appreciated. Funds raised go towards local youth activities. Until Dec. 31. Time: 6 – 9 p.m. Where: Elgin Park, Main Street South Contact: www.uxbridgeoptimist.com john.n.wilson@sympatico.ca Willy Wonka Junior Production with a cast of 35 kids ages 8 to15. Wonderful singing, clever choreography, and lots of fun surprises. A real family style show! $13 and $16 based on location. Tickets at Sugar FX. Until Dec. 17. Time: 7 p.m. plus 3:30 p.m. on Saturday
Wishing you a safe and Happy Holiday from all of us at
Where: Uxbridge Music Hall, 16 Main St. S. Contact: 647 223 0749 nia@powergate.ca The Living Nativity Join us in Centennial Park in the outdoor re-creation of Bethlehem. Come hear and see the Christmas story, complete with narration, authentic costumes, and live animals. Until Dec. 18. Time: 7:30 and 8:15 p.m. Where: Centennial Park, Centennial Park Drive Contact: 905 852 3662 www.uxbridgebaptist.com
Friday, December 16
Playdate With Santa A morning of music, games, crafts, and treats highlighted by a visit from Santa Claus. Bake sale and free photo with Santa. $5. Time: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Where: Durham Farm and Rural Family Resource Centre,141 Reach St., Unit 8 Contact: 905 862 2750 ext. 310 www.durhamfamilyresources.org
Sunday, December 18
A Christmas Carol A dramatic reading of Charles Dickens’ novel. $15. $20 at door. Time: 3 p.m. Where: Trinity United Church, 20 First Ave. Contact: 905 852 7993
Monday, December 19
Christmas Cookies Open House Take a break from shopping or just make it an outing to the library for seasonal treats and a warm drink. Bring a friend or the whole family. Check out our great selection of holiday materials too! Time: 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Public Library, 9 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 852 9747, ext. 24 www.uxlib.com Continued on Page 10
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Contact: 905 852 9747 ext. 24 www.uxlib.com
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december community calendar Thursday, December 29
Family Movie Night: Dolphin Tale The story of a lonely boy determined to rescue a dolphin who loses its tail in a crab trap. Tickets at the door with water and snacks for sale during the show. $2. Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Where: Uxbridge Public Library, 9 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 852 9747, ext. 24 www.uxlib.com
Regular Events
Real Spin A fun, low impact indoor cycling class set to great tunes. Regular morning and evening drop-in classes. $10. First Class free! Mondays to Saturdays. Time: Contact Where: Real Bodies, 282 Main St. N. Contact: 905 862 3881 www.realbodiesfitness.com
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Real Yoga Fun and suitable for everyone even if you don’t feel very flexible. Both body and mind will respond with increased strength and calmness. Every participant will find a level of challenge just right for them. $15. First Class free! Monday, Wednesdays, Sundays. Time: 7:45 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays. 10 a.m. Sundays Where: Real Bodies 282 Main St. N. Contact: 905 862 3881 www.realbodiesfitness.com
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Real Friends Work Out Together Nothing could be friendlier than sweating with your BFFs. Bring yourself and a group of friends and we will book private spin or circuitclasses just for you! Time: Contact Where: Real Bodies, 282 Main St. N. Contact: 905 862 3881 www.realbodiesfitness.com
Weehands Baby Signing Learn how to communicate with your infant using universal sign language. Pre-register. $60/four classes. Wednesdays. Time: 10 - 11 a.m. Where: Uxbridge Public Library, 9 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 852 9747, ext. 24 www.uxlib.com
cross-training to avoid injuries. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Time: Various morning and evening Where: NRG4 Life, 69 Brock St. W. Contact: 905 852 4750 www.nrg4lifefitness.com
Join IODE Women are invited to attend and learn about volunteer work. Wednesdays. Time: 7:30 - 9 p.m. Where: Contact for location Contact: 905 852 7084 www.iode
Cardio Sculpt and Flow Yoga Two of our most popular formats combined into one fantastic class. Recharge your batteries for the week ahead! Mondays. Time: 5:45 – 6:45 p.m. Where: NRG4Life, 69 Brock St. W. Contact: 905 852 4750 www.nrg4lifefitness.com
Artists of Uxbridge We meet weekly to draw and paint, share demonstrations, and participate in various workshops. Monday evenings and Wednesday mornings. Time: 7 - 9 p.m., 9 a.m. - noon Where: Zehrs Community Room, 323 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905 852 6357 www.artistsofuxbridge.ca
Easy Spin & Sculpt Geared towards those who are new to spin and want to work at a lower intensity. Easy to follow and fun! There’s nothing intimidating about it. Thursdays. Time: 5:15 – 6 p.m. Where: NRG4Life, 69 Brock St. W. Contact: 905 852 4750 www.nrg4lifefitness.com
Udora Play Group For moms and their kids 0-6 years. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Time: 10 a.m. - noon Where: Udora Community Centre, 24 Victoria St. Contact: 705 228 8716
Our print calendar is FREE for non-profits and current month’s advertisers. Listings are $25/each or 3/$60. Our online calendar is always free, updated regularly,
Yoga For Health Learn how Yoga can help heal the body, maintain health, increase flexibility, strength and vitality. Nine-week session. Tuesdays. Call to register. Time: 10 - 11:15 a.m. Where: Uxpool, 1 Parkside Dr. Contact: 416 571 0447 pathwaystopeaceyoga@hotmail.com
and sent to hundreds of subscribers as part of our This Week in Uxbridge email newsletter. Sign up at www. uxbridgetowntalk.com/e-newsletter. All events MUST be submitted via our online submission form at www. uxbridgetowntalk.com/events/submit-your-event/. For inclusion in our print edition, listings are due the 15th of the month. We are not responsible for errors and omissions, and reserve the right to edit for space or not include an event.
SPIN Burn calories fast with this low impact workout. It’s also a great way to condition your cardiovascular system while
Merry Christmas, everybody! From Ian, Maisie & Tamara!
Dreaming of a Green Christmas
HoW-to
by brittany Sherrard
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really do wish for a sparkly, white christmas, but a Green christmas means adding earthfriendly options to your holiday season. check out these eco-friendly tips:
• Shop local first! Support our merchants and drive less. This year’s Shopping the Trails in Uxbridge book have something for everyone on your list: shoppingthetrails.ca • For holiday meals, be sure to use real dinner plates. Grandma secretly wants you to use her fine china. And then, if there still isn’t enough, borrow from a friend, or use recyclable or biodegradable paper plates and cups instead of plastic
• create homemade wreaths and stylish potted veranda decorations from your leftover christmas tree clippings or from a family walk along Uxbridge’s many trails. • replace any old, unnecessary indoor and outdoor christmas lights with Led lights. You can also put your lights on a timer, only turning them on a few hours a day, and keeping them off over night
• remember that gift giving is not a competition for the biggest price tag, or fancy packaging, and may not even need wrapping at all. For inspiration, think back to your favourite christmas memory. I am willing to bet your favourites involved time spent with your family and friends. my personal suggestion is to spend some time outdoors with the ones you love; mother Nature in herself is a gift.
• make unique cards (with love) rather than purchase them at the store. For more of an impression, personally hand deliver cards to close friends and family. • consider visiting local used toy and clothing stores before hitting the mall. Also have the kids sort out old toys before new ones come from Santa, donating the excess.
• make recycled christmas ornaments from cds, pop cans, cardboard or old clay pots. © Karen Keczmerski | dreamstime.com
CAN I SELL MY HOME OVER THE HOLIDAYS? many people feel it is not in their best interest to try and sell their home during the month of december. As many of us can relate it is a very busy time and having showings in your home, family visiting and children home from school can complicate an already stressful process. However, what if you have to? I have to say that as a realtor I have been very busy over The Holidays many times. In my experience it can be a more competitive time for buyers because of the fact that there are fewer homes listed, thus creating more of a seller’s market. So although there are fewer buyers, those that are looking tend to be more serious and they will be quicker to act then in the spring when they have more choice. This can be a great time to take advantage of! remember, homes look beautiful with Holiday decorations! Happy Holidays!
Sarah Lawrence
SALeS rePreSeNTATIVe
INdePeNdANTLY OWNed ANd OPerATed
1111 davis dr. Unti 11., Newmarket On L3Y 8X2 905-836-1212 | www.sarahlawrence.ca
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my gift to you this year, a Free comparative market analysis of your home to find out its value!
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local products
All That Glitters Our favourite gifts with sparkle By Rachel Pavely and Brittany Sherrard
Stylish Puppy
Who wants a boring old collar when you could have a pink, faux diamond collar? This leather accessory sure to catch the eye of that hunky Bull Mastiff that your pooch has been yearning for. Sizes range from 12” to 30”. $27.99 at Pet Valu, 4 Banff Rd., 905 852 6977.
Watch the Time!
Time flies with a beautiful watch. Don’t make looking at the time a chore with boring plastic watches – make it worth your time! Get a watch that makes everyone breathless, so they can’t yell at you when you’re a tad behind. $2,350 at Rutledge Jewellers, 82 Brock St. W. 905 852 7846.
Toast to the Holidays Tinsel Town Showdown
u x b r i d g e t o w n t a l k . c o m december 2011 // www.uxbridge towntalk.com
Want to make that overly competitive and annoying neighbour stunned? Do it with these gorgeous wreaths! Yours will be the best looking house on the block. No need for tacky Santas this year! Go for sparkle that will make your kids proud. Wide range of colours for $18.96 at Walmart, Welwood Dr., 905 862 0721.
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Toast isn’t toast when it comes from an ugly toaster. Do yourself a favour and amp up your morning with the perfect toaster! The Krups toaster will put a smile on your face when your toast pops up perfectly toasted and looking its best! $129 at Passionate Cook’s Essentials, 68 Brock St. W., 905 862 3359.
local products Happy Feet
. chore ke at y can’t d. ock St.
Smile
Nothing sparkles more than a genuine smile. Give yourself the ultimate gift of oomph this holiday season. With teeth whitening, your confidence will sparkle way past Boxing Day. $90-$250 at Dentistry on Brock, 96 Brock St. W., 905 852 5550.
Va-Va-Voom Vehicle
A touchless car wash is a simple way to add lots of sparkle to every driver on your shopping list. Be sure to stand near the mistletoe around them as they are sure to appreciate this gift! $5.99 to $7.99 at Canadian Tire Gas Bar, 327 Toronto St. S, 905 852 3315.
Sparkle Vino
Make your festivities sparkle with a touch of class by bringing the gift of Limited Edition Sparkling Ice Wine. It’s a sophisticated way to add some sparkle and glamour to your holiday season and you’re sure be the toast of the party! Magnotta Limited Edition Sparkling Ice Wine 2008 $69.95 at LCBO, 2B Welwood Dr., Unit 1, 905 852 6581.
u x b r i d g e t o w n t a l k . c o m december 2011 // www.uxbridge towntalk.com
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These sneakers will set sparks with your little ones. They are the perfect way to add an unexpected sparkle to their mile-long Christmas lists. And admit it, you wish they came in your size too. $16 at Joe Fresh in Zehrs, 323 Toronto St. S., 905 852 1212.
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from my mom’s kitchen Ingredients
For the cake: • 1 c quick cooking oatmeal • 1/2 c boiling water • 1/2 c butter/margarine • 1 c brown sugar • 1 c white sugar • 2 eggs • 1 tbs vanilla • 1/3 c flour • 2 tbs cinnamon • Pinch salt • 1 tbs baking soda
For the coconut topping: • 1/4 c melted butter or margarine • 1 c brown sugar • 1 c coconut • 1/4 c milk/cream
Directions
The McDougall Oatmeal Cake By Carly Foster
M
y husband’s father has been making this cake for Sunday night dinners for as long as I’ve been in the family, and I’m sure long before. This subtly spicy cake is topped with a crispy coconut brown sugar icing that pairs perfectly with vanilla bean ice cream, especially when served warm.
Cake: • Pour water over oatmeal and let stand 10 minutes. Cream butter, sugars, eggs and vanilla. Sift dry ingredients together, then add into into creamed mix. Add oatmeal and mix just until combined. Pour into a greased 9x13” glass baking dish or metal pan. Bake at 350 F for 45 min to 1 hour, until toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean. Topping: • Mix until smooth. Spread evenly on cake. Broil on low until topping starts to bubble. Watch for burning!
Uxbridge YoUth theatre
u x b r i d g e t o w n t a l k . c o m december 2011 // www.uxbridge towntalk.com
presents
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Purchase a bracelet and tin with 3 charms and receive a FREE heart charm.
Based Upon the Paramount Pictures Film
Uxbridge Music Hall, 16 Main St. S.
December 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
December 4 matinee at 2:30 p.m.
Tickets at: Presents, Presents, Presents (905) 852-9544
Written For the Screen by Norman Krasna, Norman Panama & Melvin Frank MUSIC AND LYRICS BY IRVING BERLIN BOOK BY DAVID IVES and PAUL BLAKE Original stage production directed by WALTER BOBBIE Orchestrations: Larry Blank Vocal and Dance Arrangements: Bruce Pomahac
Come in and check out this and other great gift ideas for the girls on your shopping list.
Rutledge Jewellers “The finest in jewellery since 1985”
FREE ¼ CT DIAMOND STUDS WITH DIAMOND RING PURCHASE* ($500 APPRAISAL VALUE)
Valid on diamond ring purchases over $2599 • Limited Availability • Offer Ends Dec 24th 2011
Knot Pendant
Amethyst diamond earrings
Citizen Eco Drive Diver
Diamond Pendants starting at $249
Diamond Earrings starting at $249
New Watches from Bulova, Citizen, Pierre Laurant and more
W
S
ST CK BRO
N ST MAI
82 Brock St W • Downtown Uxbridge RutledgeJewellers.com • 905-852-7846
Uxbridge’s widest selection of Pandora
*Cannot be combined with any other offer. While supplies last.
Other Gift Ideas:
From my family to yours: All the best this holliday season and warm wishes for a great 2012!
c
Cindy Wood
Broker
Remax All-Stars Realty Inc., Brokerage 47 Brock St. W. Uxbridge, ON, L9P 1N5 Office: 905 852 6143 Fax: 905 852 5696 Email: cindy@cindywood.ca www.cindywood.ca