UTT - May 2014

Volume 6 | Issue 4 | May 2014

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uxbridge town talk

ginger jackson | historical centre | share what you love | realistic renovations

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The Uxbridge BIA invites you to become home-town proud! explore the shops in Uxbridge. discover globally sourced products. shop locally for brand names & unique gifts. dine out at a local restaurant or relax during a hair or spa treatment & THINK LOCAL FIRST! Give yourM OM the GIFT of TIME this Mother’ s Day

Contact us for more information about our gift ideas

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contents

volume 6 | issue4 | may 2014

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Town Talk Tidbits The Facts about Mom

Peacefully Productive Share What you Love

Super Sports Champion lawn bowler returns

Spotlight On You Emily Samulski

Faces of Uxbridge GInger Jackson

Guest Column Realistic Renovations

Historically Speaking Uxbridge Historical Centre

Your Community Local Living

Community Calendar May 2014

UTT Kitchen Apple Raisin French Toast Casserole

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Community Calendar Con’t...

STAFF Managing Editor: Elaine Leigh Graphic Designer: Sandi Leigh Sales Manager: Sandi Leigh CONTRIBUTORS Darrin Davis Uxbridge Lawn Bowling Club Uxbridge Thanks our Troops Amy Jefferies Kim Lawson Jen Thorson - OmaJen

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Feeling Fine How to live a more intuitive life

CONTACT US Phone: 905 862 3747 Email: info@uxbridgetowntalk.com www.uxbridgetowntalk.com MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 1035, Uxbridge ON L9P 1N3 OFFICE ADDRESS 24 Toronto St. N., Unit 3 Uxbridge, ON LNP 1E6

COVER PHOTO Anna-Mari West | 123rf.com facebook.com/uxbridgetowntalk

twitter.com/uxtowntalk

May is here!!!! I know you will agree I am excited to have the summer around the corner, or this year, we hope.

May brings wonderful things, but nothing more notable than Mother’s Day. Moms, we are a wonderful bunch, yes I am bragging a little. I have always loved being a Mom, it has been my most rewarding experience, (though the teen years were a bit questionable) it has also been terrifying, exciting, emotional and scary. In the end we all do our best, under some really uncertain circumstances. We follow our heart, and raise these absolute miracles we created.

I in no way feel I need honouring for that miracle but I do cherish Mother’s Day, not to be honoured but to be reminded how lucky I am to have such wonderful miracles around me. I cherish the time that I spend with my Mom, and my daughter (a mom) my grandchildren, my son and the list goes on. So we will do as we always do and enjoy family time celebrating what I feel is just a welcome excuse to enjoy family. HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!!!

-town talk Pick up copies at: Zehrs, Blue Heron Books, Township Office, Uxbridge and Zephyr libraries, NRG4Life and more.

EDITORIAL MESSAGE Unless otherwise stated, all product reviews, articles and other features are chosen by us and are unpaid. If you would like to be featured please contact us.

Uxbridge Town Talk is a monthly publication by Sweet World Media. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for the claims, views, opinions, comments or advertisement herein. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. Uxbridge Town Talk does not endorse any advertised product, service or event. The Publisher is not responsible for any typographical errors. Advertisers are responsible for any copyright issues. Uxbridge Town Talk will not be held responsible for errors, print or otherwise, in submitted ads. No part of this publication, including advertisements, may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.

Copyright © Sweet World Media 2009-2014

www.sweetworldmedia.com

The font used in “Uxbridge Town Talk” is the Gibson Family Font designed by Rod McDonald to honor my father in law John Gibson. It is available for sale at www.canadatype.net/fonts/ gibson. All proceeds are donated by Canada Type to various programs to help improve creative arts and to elevate design programs in Canada.

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| The facts about mom |

SOURCED FROM WWW.MOTHERSDAYCELEBRATION.COM

town talk tidbits

August is the most popular month in which to have a baby, with more than 360,000 births taking place that month in 2001.

The highest officially recorded number of children born to one mother is 69, to the first wife of Feodor Vassilyev (1707-1782) of Shuya, Russia. Between 1725 and 1765, in a total of 27 confinements, she gave birth to 16 pairs of twins, seven sets of triplets, and four sets of quadruplets. 67 of them survived infancy.

In the vast majority of the world’s languages, the word for “mother” begins with the letter M. Just like people, mother chimpanzees often develop lifelong relationships with their offspring.

A mother giraffe often gives birth while standing, so the new born’s first experience outside the womb is a 1.8-meter (6-foot) drop.

A female oyster over her lifetime may produce over 100 million young.

The earliest history of Mothers Day dates back to the ancient annual spring festival the Greeks dedicated to maternal goddesses.

The Greeks used the occasion to honor Rhea, wife of Cronus and the mother of many deities of Greek mythology.

Virgin Mary, children brought gifts and flowers to pay tribute to their own mothers.

Custom of celebrating Mothering Sunday died out almost completely by the 19th century. However, the day came to be celebrated again after World War II, when American servicemen brought the custom and commercial enterprises used it as an occasion for sales.

Today, Mothers Day is celebrated in several countries including US, UK, India, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Turkey, Australia, Mexico, Canada, China, Japan and Belgium. People take the day as an opportunity to pay tribute to their mothers and thank them for all their love and support.

The more recent history of Mothers Day dates back to 1600s in England. Here a Mothering Sunday was celebrated annually on the fourth Sunday of Lent (the 40 day period leading up to Easter) to honor mothers. After a prayer service in church to honor

2 Campbell Drive Suite 101A 905.862.3760

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Treat Mom to the R&R she deserves at Spa de Vie this Mother’s Day. We offer a variety of services that are perfect for helping busy Moms unwind & relax Book her in for her favorite service or purchase a Gift card so she can choose for herself.

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Spring is also in the air and it’s time to do some skincare spring cleaning! We have some exciting new facials on our menu and the latest in skincare for your treatment needs Don’t forget... Spa de Vie also offers natural gel nails, mani’s and pedi’s for sandal ready feet as well as waxing & spray tans for those pasty parts that are itching to show this Spring.

We are also the perfect destination for the coming wedding season as we offer complete spa and makeup services for any occasion, including Lash Extensions and coming soon...

New Airbrush Makeup!

For a complete list of services and to check out our fabulous skincare products visit: www.spadevie.ca for tips and tricks find us on Facebook

www.facebook.com/SpadeVieUxbridge

COMPLIMENTS OF UXBRIDGE LAWN BOWLING CLUB

After becoming Canadian singles champion last year, Alex Leblanc from the Uxbridge Lawn Bowling Club, has recently returned from Hong Kong and China. He played fours along with three other young men. Pat Bird, Alberta, lead; Alex, second; Jesse Caldwell, Peterborough, vice; and Michel Larue, Montreal was the skip. This was the team’s first international competition and they went not knowing what to expect. In Hong Kong they won silver in the Tiger Bowls final, only being beaten in the last end. The China Open was played in Fengqui, XinXiang. Here they won gold after being undefeated in ten games and beating Singapore, 16-6, in the final.

Away from the competition, the team were able to do some sightseeing including part of The Great Wall, Tiananmen Square and the Bird’s Nest Stadium from the 2008 Olympics. It was during their stay in Fengqui that they experienced special moments that touched them deeply. The kindness and hospitality of the residents is something they will always remember.

Jesse said, “It felt good to win gold and we played well as a team.”

Lawn bowling is a team game with experienced players helping new bowlers. Give it a try, Alex did and look where he is now. If you don’t want to go for gold that’s all right. Most members just want to come out on weekday evenings to enjoy a challenging game and have some fun among friends. This is indeed a family game. Anyone from nine to ninety nine can play and keep fit and healthy at the same time.

A great advantage for a family, is that lawn bowling does not require expensive equipment, there is no body contact ---even when the skip gets mad with his or her team, but it does require stamina. On a three player team, each player delivers 36 bowls and walks approximately

super sports

| champion lawn bowler returns |

one mile up and down the green. Mild exercise without undue fatigue in a friendly atmosphere amid pleasant surroundings. House leagues guarantee regular games, Sunday jitneys followed by a pot luck supper are social occasions.

So why not ‘Give it a Try’. Open House, Saturday, May 3rd 1-3pm.

Open bowling, 5-9th May & 12-16th May, 7-9pm. Lessons and bowls provided, flat shoes required. Uxbridge Lawn Bowling Club is situated behind the arena, off Centre Rd. For more information phone Jim Barton 852-5842 or Margery Cowley 852-4780. See you on the green!

Mon to Wed:

9am - 5:30pm

Thurs & Fri:

9am - 6pm

Saturday:

9am - 5pm

Mother’s Day

10am - 3pm

Looking for the “PERFECT ” Mother’s Day Gift? clocks l scarves l garden accents l jewelry table linens l wall art l gourmet chocolate Lampe Berger and of course Flowers!

More than a Flower Shop!

Voted Uxbridge’s Best Flower & Gift Shop 2012

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the , With f a lamp o ee r e f s e a n h purc to win o nth for o r ente nce a m r! ra a g e a r y f a

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We have it all ...

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faces of uxbridge

| ginger jackson |

BY ELAINE LEIGH

This month’s Faces of Uxbridge is none other than Ginger Jackson, a face that is familiar to many of you.

Many of you may be surprised to learn that Ginger began her career as a nurse in 1973, a career which she embraced up until December 1995 when she and husband Sandy became owner/ operators of the Uxbridge and Port Perry McDonald’s Restaurants. Ginger went from nurse to restaurant owner - a big career change, but one that Ginger embraced with enthusiasm and dedication.

Ginger’s husband Sandy was an accountant for McDonalds which involved a great deal of time traveling, and with five children this was a huge challenge. The Jackson’s decided to apply for a McDonalds Franchise and when one became available (Uxbridge) they embarked on a fast-paced career in the Fast Food and Restaurant Industry. In speaking with Ginger, I developed a different perspective on McDonalds. Although they are franchise restaurants, the McDonalds in Uxbridge and Port Perry are also so much more. These McDonalds are family run, family restaurants; son Jeff acts as the manager at the Uxbridge location, with son Stephen and daughter-in-law Kristin as first assistants. Son James is the manager of the Port Perry McDonalds with son Tim as the first assistant.

Ginger’s warmth shines through in all her causes, and believe me

there are many. Ginger’s passion to give back to our community is incredible. She was on the Uxbridge Cottage Hospital Board foundation as well as the Port Perry Hospital, is a member of 100 Women Who Care Uxbridge, actively supports Big Brothers and Big Sisters through McDonalds to name a few.

During our interview she quietly mentioned the Diamond Jubilee Medal she was awarded in 2012. For those of you not familiar with this award, it honours significant contributions and achievements

by Canadians, an award that I think you will agree Ginger is certainly deserving.

Ginger’s greatest accomplishment (other then being the mother of 5) has to be her idea for building the New Uxbridge Scugog Animal Shelter. I laugh when Ginger tells me that it was 3 o’clock in the morning when the idea for a new animal shelter came to her. She presented this idea to the Town clerk, and presented to council.

Ginger’s idea has snowballed into an organization with over 200 volunteers that includes experts in animal care, construction, and finances, all dedicating their time to make this much needed animal shelter a reality.

Let’s do what we can to support one of Ginger’s many causes, as a way of saying THANKS GINGER for all that you do. If you would like to find out how you can help visit http://jm.animal-shelter.ca.

As a new resident of Uxbridge Elaine has taken the helm of Sweet World Media, publisher of Uxbridge Town Talk. Elaine has three passions, family, photography and her Golden Retriever Jake. With a new business, three grandchildren and plenty of photo opportunities in Uxbridge, life’s been busy but fun!

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jasmine@elevatetherapeuticservices.com

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find us on FACEBOOK Come enjoy our new quiet location featuring the same great online scheduling system and same massage skills!

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BY ELAINE LEIGH

“The Uxbridge Historical Centre connects today’s audiences with the rich heritage of Uxbridge Township.

Through the preservation and interpretation of the Township’s history, we provide opportunities to explore, uncover and experience our past” This month I wanted to share with our readers, the history of our local (and very important!!) museum, “The Uxbridge Historical Centre” formerly, Uxbridge-Scott Museum and Archives.

I hope you find its history interesting but more importantly I hope it encourages you to visit.

The Uxbridge-Scott Museum was founded in 1972, by a newly formed group of volunteers - the The Uxbridge-Scott Historical Society - whose mandate was to collect and display artifacts of historical significance in the Township of Scott, Township of Uxbridge and the Town of Uxbridge. The property and building of Quaker Hill Public School (S.S. No. 2) was purchased by the Townships and Uxbridge Town in 1972 to be used as a museum. It officially opened as the Uxbridge-Scott Museum in the summer of 1972, just in time for the Town of Uxbridge’s 100th Anniversary.

The Uxbridge-Scott Museum and Archives became The Uxbridge Historical Centre when an agreement was made to give Uxbridge Township ownership of the grounds. A museum board was established to advise and assist Museum staff. Now, summer students are hired to conduct tours and work on various projects, and museum events.

The museum grounds are located at the north east corner of Concession Road 6 at Brock Street. Over 20 years, 6 local heritage buildings were brought to the museum site which now houses a total of 10 buildings over its two acres, that are of historical significance and

to house historical artifacts with ties to Uxbridge. Originally space on the museum grounds was limited, which forced placement of the structures to the corners of the property. As the museum grew and its acquisitions increased, it was curated in a Town Square formation with the picture-perfect Gazebo at the centre of the town.

The implement shed was built in 1975 to house artifacts donated from an archaeological dig at the site of the former Gould homestead. In 1976 the Victoria Corners Lodge Hall was moved to the site in an effort to preserve it, where you will now find artifacts on display cabinets rich with Uxbridge history. In 1979 the Fifth Line Church, another historical building in need of preservation, was moved to the museum grounds. This popular building is available to be rented for Weddings and other special events. The Print Shop was built in 1994 to house the museum’s collection of local printing equipment once used by the Uxbridge Printing Company. Amazingly some of this equipment is still operational, which can be seen at demonstrations during events like Heritage Days.

In 2013 museum staff received a Museum and Technology Fund grant from the provincial government which enabled staff to purchase PastPerfect collections management software and create a small photography studio. This purchase has allowed museum staff to catalogue the vast collection of photographs, letters and artifacts, and facilitated the creation of online exhibits and multi-media presentations.

The Uxbridge Historical Center has running water and heat in some of the buildings allowing for special occasion rentals such as weddings, parties, and to host important fundraising events such as Heritage Days and this years Car Rally. The Historical Centre is also home to the Uxbridge Tourist Information Centre.

For more information, to plan your visit, or for a complete listing of events visit www.uxbridgehistoricalcentre.com or call 905-8525854.

historically speaking

| uxbridge historical centre |

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Family Owned & Operated

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| april community calendar | community calendar

THURSDAY, MAY 1ST uxperience is a group of people from the community of Uxbridge who come together to put on an annual variety show. Every year, over 100 of your neighbours in the community volunteer their time by singing, dancing, performing skits, playing music, or helping backstage.

Welcome to the 23rd year of uxperience! “uxperience the 70s!!” Tickets can be purchased at: Sugar FX. May1st-May 3rd, call for ticket availability. Adult $20, Child $10 Time: 7:30 pm Where: Uxbridge Music Hall, 16 Main St. South Contact: 905–852–7811

Kids 4 Kids Charity Fun Fair. Come visit this great fair featuring Zoo To You, Music, Games, Prizes, BBQ and Bellybutton the Clown. All proceeds go to the Jennifer-Ashleigh Foundation.

Time: 4:00 pm - 8:30pm Where: Uxbridge Secondary School, 1127 Planks Lane

FRIDAY, MAY 2ND Monday Morning Singers presents Shakespeare: Life and Loves. The 2014 spring concert celebrates the 450th anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth. There are two special guest artists joining the choir. Acclaimed actor, Kenneth Welsh will be presenting favourite texts of William Shakespeare, from the bard’s Violinist, Diana Tait, currently assistant principal of the Canadian Opera Company Orchestra will also be joining the choir. The piece by popular American composer, Eric Whitacre, called Five Hebrew Songs is the centre piece of this spring concert. Written for choir, violin and piano, these are five love poems of exceptional beauty.. Tickets are $15 and children are free, tickets available at the door. www.mmsingers.org Time: 7:30 pm Where: St Paul’s Anglican Church, 65 Toronto St. S. Contact: 905-852-3693

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SATURDAY, MAY 3RD

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Artists of Uxbridge Annual Art Show and Sale will be held at the Blue Heron Studio on Satur-

day May 3rd from 10am-5pm and Sunday May 4th from 11am-4pm. The show exhibits more than a hundred pieces of artwork created by our members. The variety in style, subject and size of the artwork reflects the diverse interests of the artists. You will see watercolour, acrylic and oil paintings as well as wonderful pencil and charcoal drawings.

Members of the Artists of Uxbridge provide Art for Elders at both Community Care and Reachview facilities. This program has been in place since June 2012. Patrons from these care facilities are given art materials and guidance with terrific results achieved.

Admission is free and light refreshments will be available.

Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Where: Blue Heron Studio, 62 Brock Street West Contact: 905-852-5115 or roseanne.middleton@ powergate.ca

Uxbridge Lawn Bowling Club is hosting a Open House. Join members for a chat and refreshments. Find out what lawn bowling is all about —-the fun and the challenges. A family game, everyone welcome Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Where: Brock St. W & Centre Road Behind Arena Contact: Margery Cowley at 905-852-5842

SUNDAY, MAY 4TH Canadian Tire’s 7th Annual Ladies Night.

We’re saying “Happy Mother’s Day” a week early. You won’t want to miss this years event, great prizes, lots of free giveaways, lots of ladies night only specials, great displays from local businesses and Canadian Tire vendors.

Time: 6:30pm - 9:30pm Where: Canadian Tire, 327 Toronto St. Contact: 905-852-3315

WEDNESDAY, MAY 7TH The Uxbridge Historical Society is holding its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday May 7th at 7pm. Meeting will be held at the Museum schoolhouse located at 7239 Concession Road 6. Allan McGillivray will speak on World

War 1 from a local perspective. All are welcome and refreshments will be provided Time: 7:00 pm Where: Uxbridge Historical Society, 7239 Concession Road 6

SATURDAY, MAY 10TH Rotary Scrap Metal Day. Collecting scrap metal and electronic equipment for recycling, proceeds to fund Rotary community projects Where: Uxbridge Arena, Brock Street West Contact: Kerin Lloyd at 9058526801 or kerin.lloyd@gmail.com

Adventure Car Rally. Join us on a fun driving adventure through Uxbridge town and countryside! This is a Family/Team event, exciting and fun for all ages! Make the old-tyme tradition of a ‘Car Rally’ a fun tradition with your family too!

This is a fundraiser for the Uxbridge Historical Centre. Your team can win some great prizes.

Come prepared to have a whole lot of fun and discover new places. Don’t forget to bring the whole family! $20 for adults, kids ages 15 and under are free. Download your registration form at www.uxbridgehistoricalcentre.com/CarRally Register before April 22nd to be entered in the Early Bird Draw Time: 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Where: Uxbridge Historical Centre, 7239 Concession Road 6 Contact: 905-852-5854 or museum@town.uxbridge. on.ca

MONDAY, MAY 12TH Naturopathic Medicine Week is May 12-16!

Come on in to the office and meet local Naturopathic Doctor, Dr. Valerie James! Schedule your complimentary 15 minute consult with Dr. James anytime during the week of May 12-16, and your visit will include a blood pressure assessment, body composition analysis and FREE samples! Your name will also be entered into a draw to win a gift basket valued at over $125!

Don’t delay - book today!

Time: 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Where: Uxbridge Health Centre, Rexall plaza, SE corner

Happy Mother’s Day Uxbridge Uxbridge Community Community Midwives Midwives 905 862 3535 | www.uxbridgemidwives.com Tiffany Haidon RM Mahnaz Najafian RM Mitra Razi RM

visit website for ticket details.

Time: 7:30pm Where: Uxbridge Music Hall, 16 Main Street South Contact: Go to website for ticket information www.uxbridgeyouththeatre.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 14TH SATURDAY, MAY 24TH Community Living Month Boston Pizza Uxbridge Fundraiser. For every receipt collected between 5 & 8pm on May 14, 10% will be given back to Community Living, courtesy of Boston Pizza.

Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Where: Boston Pizza, 284 Toronto Street South

4th annual Uxbridge Prayer Breakfast Join us as the Churches of Uxbridge come together for an occasion of fellowship and inspiration.

We are delighted to welcome keynote speaker Don Simmonds, Chairman of Crossroads Canada (producer of 100 Huntlet Street)We will also enjoy a wonderful musical presentation by Redemption; a band of local, talented young adults. Tickets just $15 avaiulable at Evens Financial Services and Blue Heron Books.

Time: 7:00 am - 9:00 am Where: Mill Run Golf Club, 269 Durham Rd. 8 Contact: 905-852-6703 or uxbridgeprayerbreakfast@ gmail.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 17TH North Durham Nature Walks. Beaver River Wetland – Marsh monitoring – Derek Connelly and Mark Staab - Details provided when you register – please call Derek Time: 10:00 pm -

11:00 pm Contact: Derek at 905-852-5432, or email dconn50@ powergate.ca

Join us for the 2nd Annual Horse Lover’s Tour.

Visit Coelbrook Farms, Hop Hill Stables, Cast Iron Ranch, Equine Training Centre and Foxfire Equestrian Centre. Visit the Museum and see Equimania as well as other attractions. There will be demonstrations by our farriers on shoeing horses and giving a horse a message. Lots to see and do at this free event, free parking.

Watch for the signs with the horse logo for directions and the participating farms. For more information call Pat Mikuse 905 852-0206 Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Contact: Pat Mikuse 905-852-0206

WEDNESDAY, MAY 28TH North Durham Nature is pleased to present a talk by Ron Tozer. Tozer was a park naturalist for 25 years in Algonquin Park. An avid birder, he has been keeping records of the arrivals, nesting, and departures of all 278 known birds in the park. Tozer will present an illustrated discussion on topics such as habitat change, migration timing changes apparently related to climate warming, and population declines.

The talk will be held at the Uxbridge Seniors Centre, starting at 7 PM. Tozer’s new book, “The Birds of Algonquin Park” will be available to purchase: all proceeds are donated to The Friends of Algonquin Park. Light refreshments will be available – please bring your own mug.

Time: 7:00 pm Where: Uxbridge Seniors Centre, 75 Marietta St

THURSDAY, MAY 22ND Grease. This rollicking musical, set in the 50′s at Rydell High School, will have you bopping in your seats. An 8 year run on Broadway and two subsequent revivals along with innumerable school and community productions place Grease among the world’s most popular musicals. Show runs from May 22nd - May 25th,

We Have Moved!

905.852.4750

284 Main St., N, Unit #100 Technology Square “Strengthening Uxbridge One Person at a Time”

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info@nrg4lifefitness.net

Great Student Rates & Mother’s Day Specials!

SATURDAY, MAY 31ST Uxbridge!! Join us on May 31, 2014 as we march in a parade starting at the Uxbridge Arena approximately 10:30 am ending at the bandshell in Elgin Park.

Participants wearing the red “Uxbridge Thanks

- New Hrs of Operation - New Lowered Rates - Discounts for Students, Couples, 60+ Yrs, Families, Corporate

our Troops” T -shirt will form the Ribbon. This spectacle with be photographed from the air and copies will be sent to all Canadian Forces bases around the world.

Time: 10:30 am Where: Uxbridge Arena - Elgin Park Bandshell Contact: www.uxbridgethanksourtroops.com for more information

REGULAR EVENTS Soup Lunch Please donate as you are able to support the Loaves and Fishes Foodbank and North House. The lunches are provided by North House, local churches and community groups. Contact John Gould for more information: gould3@sympatico.ca. Every Wednesday from 12 to 1:30pm at St. Andrew’s - Chalmers Presbyterian Church on Toronto St. S. Uxbridge BIA Seniors Day Seniors are encouraged to come shop, dine & explore Uxbridge each Tuesday. On Tuesday, participating businesses will display an orange ‘Keep Calm Seniors Day Here’ sign. Stop by to discover special Seniors promotions, sale items, in-store guests, a demonstration, a free activity or a Seniors discount.

Contact: 905 852-9181 x 406

Legion Bingo Bingo Thursdays at the Uxbridge Legion. $1200 in prizes to be awarded.

Must be at least 19 years of age. Doors open 6:30pm. Bingo starts at 7:30pm Taoist Tai Chi Includes a gentle set of movements that promote well-being for people of all ages and in all conditions. Beginner class: every Friday 9-10am. Continuous class: every Friday 10-11:30am.

Sketchy Crafts and Crafty Sketches A fun drawing and crafting workshop led by young artist Rachel Prentice. Each week a different project is featured such as clay sculptures, paper masks, figure sketching and much more.

Ages 11 and up. Every Wednesday. Free.

Time: 4 pm Where: Uxbridge Youth Centre, 34 Brock St.

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of Elgin Park Dr. and Toronto St. Contact: 905-852-1009 x1013 to schedule your complimentary consult today or visit www.whitepinewellness. ca

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peacefully productive

| share what you love |

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BY DARRIN DAVIS

“There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle, or the mirror that reflects it.” - Edith Wharton Welcome to the era of untempered self-promotion. From the humblebrag, the selfie and elementary-school kids with their own blogs, to personalized mouse-pads and custom Starbucks ’lifestyle’ drinks that are supposed to announce to the world that you’ve landed. We have created a whole lexicon of new terms that our grandparents would scratch their befuddled heads at, all relating to improving our image in the minds of others. What if we spent a little bit of time each week trying to improve the image of others?

Twenty years ago, personalized license plates were a rare sight, and carried the apt title ‘vanity plates.’ Now we have full vehicle wraps, and corporate tattoos. Progress?

Social media has become the de facto means of getting our message out, and whether that message is the demo of your latest tune on Soundcloud, or Instagram photos of the fancy fish tacos with tomatillos that your spouse cooked up for date-night, it’s never been easier to paint a stylized self-portrait of who you want the world to see you as, and spread the word. Every 3 minutes. (Here’s the fish tacos after 2 bites. Here’s the plate, licked clean. Here’s the ’chef’, loading the dishwasher...)

Don’t get me wrong, I think this is an exciting time. It’s great to check out what your friends are listening to, or to see photos of your nephew’s hockey tournament that you couldn’t attend. And for artists and other creative types, the democratization that Facebook and other platforms provide allow us to share our works with thousands of friends, fans and creative colleagues that we couldn’t have dreamed of a decade ago. I love it, and have been grateful to leverage YouTube, Twitter and Facebook to promote various creative projects I’ve worked on.

We are said to live in the DIY age, and along with the amazing benefits of being able to record a great sounding song ON YOUR IPHONE (!?!) and share it with the world five minutes after writing it, comes the burden of being completely in charge of your public image, your own promotion, and the knowledge that at any given moment, 5 million other people of varying skill levels, ages and ethics are also embracing that same technology, with the same end goal in mind.

It’s hard to be genuine and honest in this sea of flashing neon “me” signs. It’s only human to put your best face (book) forward and edit the you that the world sees. And we all know by now that being positive and seeing the gold in things is a lot more attractive than being a ’Debbie Downer.’ I’m sure we’ve all hidden the posts (another strange modern phrase) of numerous people who are constantly complaining about how difficult everything is for them, as if they’re the only person to ever work a full-time job, or get depressed, or have a kid. And I’m more guilty than most of relentlessly trying to turn every setback into an opportunity, and then sharing that opportunity. Perhaps it’s a necessary evil these days.

It’s pretty hard to generate any sort of momentum for your work without getting over that first ’vanity hurdle.’

As artists, we need to show respect for ourselves, and have some confidence in what we’re doing, before anyone else can pick up the torch for us. But I’d like to take some time now to shine a light on what I think are possibly the most important people these days for an artist: the champions. These are the people who share and comment on your posts all the time. These are the people who email their friends and invite them to your dance performances. The friends who watch your youtube videos, and get all their friends to watch them too. These champions of the artist are like modern day benefactors.

The financial model has completely changed for artists, and many would argue that it is impossible to make a living based on your creations. But if the most important thing is making good art, and sharing it with others, than these ’connectors,’ these creative champions of your work are the most important cards in your deck. Honour them, thank them, and give them reasons to continue sharing your work.

I am so grateful for all the awesome people who have helped me in this way over the past couple of years. (Dan Kernohan, Peter Bradley, Tania Joy, your names comes to mind instantly.) These connectors become a network of support that help us drudge through the tough times of the creative process, and help make it all worthwhile.

But it doesn’t stop there. As artists, part of our responsibility is to do the same for causes we believe in. Perhaps you don’t have the money to support your neighbour’s mural project, but you can probably take a couple minutes and share their blog post, with info on their fundraising site.

Who are some artists, writers, musicians, etc that you believe in?

What can you do to help get THEIR message out? We all grow weary of people always waving their own flag. But when we hoist someone else’s banner, it can really help raise awareness, bolster credibility and draw the attention of a much wider audience. It’s the reason companies ask for references when hiring.

Who are your champions and who do you want to start championing?

I’m going to start a Facebook tradition, called the ’Tuesday Horn Toot.’

I’d like you all to join in. Simply make a post with the title: ‘Tuesday Horn Toot!’ And then share something by a local, independent creator who you think could use a little attention. Let’s see what happens.

Have an awesome month, Darrin Darrin Davis is the owner and operator of Peacefully Productive Studios. He is a professional musician, singer-songwriter, photographer and painter. His weekly music video series ‘Songs on a Pink Couch’ can be followed at youtube.com/ user/thedarrindavisband, and his weekly photography series can be seen at facebook.com/darrindavisphotography. He lives in the wildwood splendour of Uxbridge, Ontario with his lovely wife Amy, and their incorrigible pup, Dublin. All 3 are relentless Blue Jays fans.

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Emily started making jewellery initially when she saw this necklace online that she wanted to get for her mom as a christmas present, but she thought it would be extra special if she made it, so she just bought some materials and tried making something similar. When her friends saw it they couldn’t believe that she had made it, so she kept making different pieces as a small hobby posting them on Facebook and Instagram. Eventually some of her friends started to want custom pieces, so from that point on she began to sell her jewellery! This jewellery is extra special because she names each piece based on what it reminds her of, so each piece has a little story attached to it...she came up with the name Lost Travellers Jewellery because eventually she would like to travel and make jewellery all over the world using all different beads from different places.

spotlight on you

| emily samulski |

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guest column

| realistic renovations |

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BY KIM LAWSON

With spring in the air, websites like Houzz.com, and all the renovation programs we’ve had time to watch throughout the long and cold winter months, we are inspired with thoughts of fresh beginnings… and many of those may include the idea of a home renovation.

For some, these plans may include a fantastic new kitchen or a refreshing bathroom, and for others of us, the much less exciting prospect of a much needed new roof or replacement windows and doors.

Whatever your renovation plans include, it’s important that you set yourself up with realistic expectations…time and effort will be required. It’s important to understand the process that is involved in planning for and getting the job done, the responsibilities and liabilities placed on the homeowner and the renovator, and the costs involved to do them.

Once you determine your available budget, and make a list of your needs and wants, you should pretty quickly establish what priorities you have. It’s never easy to put off the comfy new family space found in a beautifully finished basement, but you want to make sure that your investment is not compromised by dampness seeping in. Take care of the building envelope, and then you can take on beautifying the inside.

Referrals are one of the best ways to find a renovator. Beyond looking at their portfolio and asking for references, don’t be afraid to ask the important questions in regards to liability insurance, WSIB

coverage and warranties. They are working with you on improving not only one of your most valuable investments, but they are also going to be working in your family’s home…amongst the people and the things you hold dear.

In the same way, don’t be surprised when your renovator in turn asks you important questions, and one of the first questions will be about your budget. Understanding what you have to work with financially, your renovator can help you set up a realistic plan. Through their years of experience, understanding the costs of the materials and the labour hours required, they can save you a lot of frustration, time and effort.

Once you and your renovator have worked together to establish the plan and materials being used, you will have to invest more time…time to wait and prepare for your scheduled start date. It is important to allow enough time for all the materials to arrive before beginning a project in order to avoid delays in the midst of the renovation due to backordered parts, and enough time for you to clean out and prepare the areas they will need to be working in.

It is always exciting when the renovator’s trucks roll in, the site prep starts and demo begins. Once the dust starts to settle (everywhere!), and the in-house camping experience grows a little old, remember where you started from. With just a little more time & effort, you will soon be enjoying the fresh new space you were inspired with back in the spring.

Kim Lawson | Lawson Home Improvements Inc.- Uxbridge resident and family business owner celebrating over 25 years in the renovation business. Visit their showroom at 17991 Lakeridge Road, Uxbridge or online at www.lawsonhomeimprovements.com.

| local living |

Join us for the 2nd Annual Horse Lover’s Tour. Visit Coelbrook Farms, Hop Hill Stables, Cast Iron Ranch, Equine Training Centre and Foxfire Equestrian Centre. Visit the Museum and see Equimania as well as other attractions. There will be demonstrations by our farriers on shoeing horses and giving a horse a massage. Lots to see and do at this free event, free parking. Watch for the signs with the horse logo for directions and the participating farms. For more information call Pat Mikuse 905 852-0206

THANKS OUR TROOPS JA C-17 military transport carrying the last Canadian contingent of troops left Afghanistan and landed in Ottawa on March 18, 2014, at about 9:30 a.m.

Having been deployed since 2002, this has been the longest active military engagement in Canadian history. The conflict cost the lives of 158 Canadian soldiers, one diplomat, a journalist and two civilian contractors.

But, what of the lives that were lost here on Canadian soil, by a soldiers’ own hand? The conflict of war may not be over when a soldier returns home..it may be just beginning...

One may never know the turmoil that each soldier faced while serving our great country.

News media across the country has made us well aware of the rash of soldiers who have taken their own lives, so desperate that they felt it was their only choice. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has come out of the shadows and is now being talked about openly.

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April 21, 2007, saw Uxbridge become the first community in Canada to have proclaimed a day in support of our troops. The day was called “Uxbridge Supports the Troops Day”. Citizens of Uxbridge and Durham region wore red t-shirts. That wave of support was called “The Sea of Red” Over a thousand participants marched in a parade leading to Elgin Park. Approximately four thousand participants enjoyed a day of entertainment, military displays, speeches and concession stands. In the air, attendees were witness to military fly-by a CF 18 Hornet fighter jet from CFB Bagotville, Que., piloted

by Canada’s Top Gun Captain, Steven Neirlich, born and raised locally; a CC130 Hercules transport plane CFB Trenton and a CH146 Griffon tactical helicopter from CFB Borden. All monies raised went to Wounded Warriors Canada to bring aid to troops wounded in combat in Afghanistan while recuperating in a military hospital in Lanstuhl, Germany.

Uxbridge!! Join us on May 31, 2014 as we march in a parade starting at the Uxbridge Area approximately 10:30 am. At the Band Shell in Elgin Park, Michael Landsberg from TSN will be the Master of Ceremonies for the day. On hand will be military static displays, entertainment, celebrity appearances, concession stands, a beer garden and we are hoping to secure a military fly-by. .

The pinnacle of the day will be a “Living Support Ribbon “event.

Participants wearing the red “Uxbridge Thanks our Troops” T -shirt will form the Ribbon. This spectacle with be photographed from the air and copies will be sent to all Canadian Forces bases around the world.

The goal in this project is to: Raise much needed funds for Wounded Warriors Canada and their programs to aid in veteran to civilian transition dealing with PTSD and any mental or physical health issues.

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utt kitchen

| apple raisin french toast cassarole |

RECIPE PROVIDED BY OMAJEN’S KITCHEN

LOOKING FOR A PERFECT, SIMPLE MOTHER’S DAY BREAKFAST TO MAKE FOR YOUR MOM? ENJOY THIS GREAT RECIPE AND SHARE IT WITH THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON ON MOTHER’S DAY!

Ingredients 1 cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 cup butter, melted 3 apples - peeled, cored and sliced 1/2 cup raisins 1 (1 pound) loaf French baguette, cut into 1 inch slices 6 eggs, lightly beaten 1 1/2 cups milk 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Directions 1. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix together brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Mix in melted butter. Stir in apples and raisins until evenly coated. Pour into prepared pan. Arrange bread slices in an even layer over apples.

2. In the bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla and 2 teaspoons cinnamon. Pour over bread, making sure every slice is fully soaked. Cover with aluminum foil, and refrigerate overnight.

3. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Remove dish from refrigerator while the oven is heating. Bake covered for 40 minutes.

Remove cover, and bake 5 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

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“The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant.

We have created a society that honours the servant and has forgotten the gift.” ~Albert Einstein As I sit here witnessing the earth waking up, the buds breaking through, and nature coming alive for a new season, I am reminded of what a great miracle this is. We are part of something infinitely greater than our intellectual minds can comprehend. We are part of this incredible phenomenon, this creation, this mystery. Isn’t it amazing?

Yet over time, we seem to have lost the sense of awe and wonder. We have become separated from the magic, the feeling of adventure, the feeling of being truly alive. We have become strangers to the curiosity we had in spades as children. Instead we inhabit the fractional, heavy, pity party, ‘Debbie Downer’ space that I call our ‘small mind’. A mind that judges, over-analyzes, worries, and compares ... a mind that leaves us feeling less-than, disconnected and unhappy.

Life’s designed to be so much more! We are not meant to live in this small, cramped corner of our mind. We were born to be part of the magic, the flow, the mystery and rhythm of the cosmos - and there is a place in us that knows this. There is a place in us that knows we are much bigger than what our minds allow us to see. This place of knowing is our intuition; our deepest-felt sense.

Intuition definition: -direct perception of truth, fact, etc., independent of any reasoning process; immediate apprehension.

-a natural ability that makes it possible to know something without any proof or evidence; a feeling that guides a person to act a certain way without fully understanding why.

“It’s really more of a feeling than a voice—a whispery sensation that pulsates just beneath the surface of your being. All animals have it. We’re the only creatures that deny and ignore it.” ~Oprah How many times have you gone against your gut feeling, only to find yourself in a bind, wishing you had trusted and acted on that initial inclination? We all get caught in our heads, and lose our place in the healthy, happy rhythm of our lives. But the more we can listen to our intuition, the more we will find ourselves moving with the current, not working against it.

It’s easy to miss intuitive guidance because it’s usually quite subtle and non-invasive. It can come to us in the form of images in our mind’s eye, feelings in our body, words in our head, and more. It won’t compete with the loud, incessant chatter of our regular thought-stream. One of my teachers likened intuition to the feeling of butterfly wings brushing up against your cheek ... it’s that subtle. Intuitive nudges also frequently go against rational thinking so we immediately discard the messages we get, judging them as ‘unrealistic’ or ‘impossible.’ Following our intuition however, opens us up to a world of possibility; it opens us up to the world of our dreams. If only we would follow and trust our gut feelings!

Here are 4 Tips for Living a More Intuitive Life: 1. Do something different.

Every day do something outside your norm. This might make you feel uncomfortable, but that’s a good thing! There’s a saying ‘if you’re not uncomfortable, you’re not growing.’ And it’s so true! Changing up our daily routine keeps us from going into our ‘small mind’ or the trenches in

the brain’. These ‘trenches’ keep us stuck in old, out-dated habits and beliefs and ultimately hold us back from experiencing both our intuition, and the creative flow of life. Here are just a couple of examples of things you could do differently: Take a different route to work, change up your wardrobe - wear something new and exciting that you normally wouldn’t wear, brush your teeth with your left-hand, eat something you’ve never tried before.

Be creative in what you change up. There are LOTS of options you can try.

Have fun with it! Allow yourself to be moved by something bigger than your mind and its sticky, old habits.

2. Be creative.

Creativity fuels intuition. When you are being creative, you are in the flow, out of your head, and in the moment. This is when and where your intuition speaks to you. Just do something that ignites your creative spark and has you explore your imagination.

As Einstein said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” In fact it was Einstein’s imagination and creativity that led him to his greatest discovery: “The theory of relativity occurred to me by intuition, and music is the driving force behind this intuition...” Now that’s inspiring!

I start each day dancing and singing. Doing this connects me with my intuition and sets the tone for me to be guided by my ‘vibes’ throughout the day.

3. Embrace quiet.

Spending time quietly alone helps us get in touch with our deepest inner wisdom. Quiet time may take the form of meditation, but it doesn’t have to. As long as you make the effort to stop talking in your head and just listen, you are on your way. Remember, intuition will not compete with our rambunctious, noisy brains. Once you quiet the inner chatter, you are making room for something else to come through. Find your sanctuary. It may be in your room, office, backyard, or on a trail in the woods. Go there and embrace the quiet.

4. Practice.

Very few of us actually practice using our intuition. We ‘talk’ about it, we ‘think’ about it, but we don’t quite get down to using it in real life. Most of us are very intuitive but because we aren’t in the habit of acknowledging it, it breezes right past us and the opportunity is lost.

The key is to not be afraid to make a mistake. Just have fun with it - make a game of it - and bit by bit you’ll figure out what intuitive nudges are accurate, and what nudges, well, aren’t. Start with the more trivial things in your life and then you can move onto the bigger things. For example, start to play games like guessing who’s on the phone before you pick it up, or guessing what the next colour of car is going to be that drives by.

Another one could be describing what people are wearing before you see them. Use your imagination, play with it! Follow your hunches, see where they lead. And don’t try too hard -- if you do, you’re back up in your head. Just take the first impression that comes and speak it.

If you begin putting these tips into action you will start to notice more synchronicities in your life as a result of following your intuition. Over time you will come to trust yourself. And you will honour your inner wisdom and be grateful you have it as a guiding compass in your life.

Amy Jefferies is an Intuitive Healer and Coach. An honours graduate from the Ontario College of Homeopathic Medicine, she has a diploma in Homeopathic Medicine and Health Sciences. Amy is a certified Life Coach with accreditations from the International Coach Federation and the Certified Coaches Alliance. Her integrative approach includes: Intuitive Coaching/Readings, Homeopathy and Nutrition. Amy lives in Uxbridge with her husband and adorable doggie Dublin. For more information visit her website: www.bloomwithin.ca

feeling fine

BY AMY JEFFERIES

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| how to live a more intuitive life |

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