February 2010 - Uxbridge Town Talk

Table of Contents

Managing Editor: Carly Foster Art Director: Kirsty Kernohan

Editorial Assistant: Shelby Stokes Contributors: Kim Mortson

Sandy Johnston Contact Us

Phone: 647­476­3056

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

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From the Publishers

As we enter month three of cold weather, February is when the winter blahs can really start to set in. Christmas is over, the bills are in, and spring seems an eternity away.

This is all the more reason to get out and explore Uxbridge. We are blessed in our town to have a great mix or rural and urban offerings, including unique shops and acres of greenspace to play in. Instead of complaining about the cold, use our handy guide on page 5 to find some outdoor places to play.

February 15 is Family Day, a time to spend enjoying our partners, children, extended and pseudo relatives. We are amazed by all the free things to do in our small town! There’s no need to drive to the city with the roster of planned events. From an Xbox tournament to free skates and a barbeque, you can spend the entire day having fun together. See page 5 for the list.

With our rural roots, it’s interesting to note that Uxbridge’s Early Learning Centre is one of the only organizations in Ontario to offer on­farm childcare during the peak growing season of April­ September. Read about and the bouncing (free!) play centre where kids and parents connect on page 7.

Did you know Uxbridge has an active and impressive senior’s club? More than 400 residents are members. President Sandy Johnston shares the club’s history on page 11. Here you will also find exercise tips for the winter months.

From knitting classes to Reiki seminars, PA Day activities to Guys & Dolls at the music hall, we present another stuffed, three­page events calendar starting on page 8. As we put the magazine together each month, it is stunning to see just how much there is going on in our Township! And we have it all in one place as a handbook to fill your calendars with.

And don’t forget to sign up for our weekly Finally Friday newsletters, where we deliver the weekend’s local events right to your inbox: www.uxbridgetowntalk.com/newsletter Enjoy!

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.

3

The Harvest Table: Recipes for local food

Pick up this all local cookbook filled with recipes from farm markets, farmers, chefs and kitchen entertainers (we can’t wait to try Garlic Mango Chicken and Cinnamon Oatmeal Biscotti). All proceeds go to North House, an organization that helps those with housing challenges in Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog townships. $15 – available at the Tin Cup/Mill, St. Paul’s Anglican Church, or via email to northhouseoffice@bellnet.ca.

Uxbridge Reads

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A celebrity panel – including Mayor Bob Shepherd and local actor Neil Crone – has been busy reading five fabulous novels chosen by local book clubs: The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill, Three Day Road by Joseph Boyden, Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen, Prisoner of Tehran by Marina Nemat and The Brain that Changes Itself by Norman Doidge.

Join the debate in council chambers on Wed., Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. as spectators and readers alike duke it out to pick the book for all of Uxbridge to enjoy in the Blue Herons’ Uxbridge Reads challenge.

Follow and support your favourite Olympians this month when the 2010 Winter Games land in Vancouver February 12­28: www.ctvolympics.ca/athletes/index.html www.cbc.ca/olympics/athletes/

Did you know?

As of 2006, Uxbridge Township’s population was 19,169 We cover an area of 420.65 km² 10 hamlets make up the Township We have seven schools and a college campus The Uxbridge Geneaology Group is currently transcribing five area newspapers spanning 1861 to the present 12 movies have been partially filmed in town, including Men With Brooms and Serendipity

By Carly Foster

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to stay inside! The snow offers a plethora of new adventures outdoors in Uxbridge. Throw on some snow pants, grab some mittens, and get exploring our town.

Trails Uxbridge is not called the Trail Capital of Canada for no reason. While our 220 kms of managed trails are not groomed in the winter, enough adventurous people are out on foot and ski to keep them packed down and manageable. While you’re out there, try some geocashing – “the ultimate high­tech treasure hunt” where you search for hidden containers using only a handheld GPS with geographical coordinates, says the Township’s trails website. Many items are hidden on Uxbridge’s trail system. For trail locations and more, visit www.town.uxbridge.on.ca and search trails.

Skiing, snowboarding Did you know our township is home to three ski resorts? Take a drive south on Lakeridge Road (especially at night – the glow is spectacular) and check out Lakeridge (www.ski­lakeridge.com), Skyloft (www.skyloft.com) and Dagmar (www.skidagmar.com). Here you can try downhill and cross country skiing, and snowboarding.

Tobogganing Arguably the most scream­of­delight­inducing activity of winter, tobogganing is fun for all ages. The hill beside the Uxbridge Arena (291 Brock St. W.) is very active, says Bob Ferguson, manager of parks and facilities. Hy Hope Farm (www.hyhopefarm.ca) offers a variety of hills for the beginner to expert rider. The Quaker Common in Uxbridge’s west end (off Quaker Village Drive) has a gentle sloping hill, as does the hill off Bolton Drive in the same subdivision, near the museum.

Skating The scrape of figure and ice skates echoes off the intersection of Mill and Main streets all through the winter. Be sure to check the flags for ice safety: Yellow means skate with caution, while red indicates stay off. There is also an outdoor rink at the Goodwood Community Centre (268 Hwy. 47 at the corner of Regional Rd. 21). Ferguson reminds residents that retention ponds – like the one in the Quaker Common in Quaker Village – are never to be skated on, as inconsistent water flow and fluctuating height makes the surface dangerous.

Have a favourite local winter pastime? A hill or frozen pond you frequent? Search Uxbridge Town Talk on Facebook and share it on our fan page.

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She doesn’t need it. Which is why she should have it

Carved from Canada’s north, this brilliant round Canadian diamond (1.03 ct) literally comes with adoption papers tracking its origins and sits in a designer Simon G setting. Can you imagine her face when you slip this piece of sparkle and pizzazz on her finger? Or, ladies, why wait: If we had a million, we’d buy it for ourselves! $35,000 at Rutledge Jewellers

Bedroom luxury

Sharp and expensive The ergonomic handle of these Type 301 knives was designed by F.A. Porsche and chef of the decade, Jörg Wörther.

With high­quality Japanese steel and 18/10 stainless steel, these will easily be the most coveted tool in the kitchen. $2,999 at The Passionate Cooks Essentials

Bling on wheels

We’d need a luxurious place to keep our fancy clothes, which is why we love the sophisticated solid wood Passages dresser and Wellington mirror. With nine drawers and a jewelry liner, there’s plenty of space to house our goodies in style. $2,195 at Low’s Furniture

With white diamond paint, heated/cooled cup holders, power retractable steps, 22” chromed aluminum rims, deep­tinted windows, fully­loaded navigation system and a faint­inducing entertainment system, this hybrid all wheel drive 2010 Cadillac Escalade will make you the talk of the town.

Downtown oasis

$114,000 at Williamson Uxbridge

Priceless breakfast

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At press time, this four acre, five bedroom haven on Mill Street was the most expensive residential property for sale in Uxbridge (MLS #: N1764970). The perfect place to wile away the days eating bonbons while tending stunning gardens, lounging in the giant pool and sauna we’d put in, while walking to Elgin Park and Pond each day. $1,599,000 at www.realtor.ca

Even if we had a million dollars, we’d still need a down home, belly­filling, inexpensive bacon and eggs breaskfast at our favourite greasy spoon. We’d just eat more. With really expensive ketchup that we’d bring with us in crystal decanters. $4.95 at B&L Country Kitchen

L­R: Cristyn Hopkins, 2, Erin O'Dacre, Camryn Wood, 4 & Sean Fagan, 2, enjoying plasticine playtime.

By Carly Foster

Who: Erin O’Dacre, program director for the Uxbridge Early Learning Centre

What: The centre offers free programming to kids 0­6 years old. The umbrella organization, Durham Farm and Rural Family Resources, is one of the only groups in the province to offer free on­farm childcare

Where: 141 Reach St. (beside Body Fit). Sister centres are located in Beaverton, Cannington and Sunderland By the numbers: The Uxbridge site averages 40 parents and kids a day, four days a week, from 9 a.m.­2 p.m. In 2009, more than 7,600 people came to play, laugh and interact, while 10 families in Durham Region received free on­farm care. Four part­time staff keep things running

How: After a rash of farming accidents severely hurt and killed several children in the 1980s, the Uxbridge Women’s Institute applied for a grant to start on­farm childcare. Things have grown since then, with the centre living in various church basements (even the fire hall!) before its permanent spot was built two years ago

To do: Daily drop­in play, singing, crafts and more. Registered programs target a different age group each month (Science rocks! happened recently for 3­4­year­ olds). The toy lending library is stuffed with dinosaurs, books, music, dress up clothes and more. Parents and caregivers connect while kids play. Tons of local resources Best part of the day: Getting to work with parents and kids (her dream job) Biggest challenge: Securing stable and consistent funding. Finding and applying for grants has become a large part of O’Dacre’s job. Advocacy – how important the free programs are for early development and socialization – is never ending Family: Lives in Uxbridge with her two kids, 11 and 9, and cat, Rosie

Advice for parents: Don’t be nervous! “Coming in for the first time can be hard. But we have a relaxed, warm, welcoming environment where kids can come and be free and parents can have a break.”

Looking for ways to enjoy your loved ones on Family Day this month?

There are tons of fun and free things to do in Uxbridge, indoors and out.

Swim: Uxpool offers free public swimming from 10 a.m.­noon Skate: Outdoor skating party on Elgin Pond with free hot dogs, drinks and music from the Uxbridge Kinsmen, with proceeds to the Uxbridge Youth Centre, noon­5 p.m. The Uxbridge arena has a free skate from noon­2 p.m.

Play: An Xbox tournament and free pizza runs from noon­8 p.m. at the Uxbridge Youth Centre Sculpt and eat: The rear parking lot of the Uxbridge Legion will be transformed into a sculpture contest at 10 a.m., followed by a free beef barbeque from noon­1:30 p.m.

Ride: Sandford Stables is offering free family horseback riding. Kids must be at least 4 years­old. Call 905­852­9854 or www.sandfordstables.net for more details and to register

Staying indoors? Try these activities for kids of all ages

Pajama party: Spend the day relaxing in your jammies Don’t get bored: Dig out your family’s favourite board games and play the day away Build: Craft the ultimate play fort out of tables, chairs, blankets and pillows Home theatre: Take turns picking your most beloved movies, with popcorn and snacks for lunch Cook: Stock the freezer with the family’s favourite meals and baked goodies for the months ahead

More info: www.durhamfamilyresources.org or 905­862­2750 x310

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Monday, February 1

Free Singing Lessons 7:15 p.m.

A welcome place for women to come and sing! Join the Pineridge Chorus for free singing lessons at the Uxbridge Music Hall.

905­852­6327 Wednesday, February 3

Soft As Silk Cowl 10:30 a.m.

For the slightly adventurous knitter who is dying to knit in the round, and tackle some easy, lacey stitches. Once you are finished, this cowl will softly drift around your neck, providing you with many hours of warmth and stylishness. $50 at On the Lamb www.onthelamb.ca 905­852­1944 Aromatherapy Level I 6:15­9:15 p.m.

Aromatherapy Level I is a basic intro to aromatherapy and essential oils including safety, contraindications, methods of use and dosage and profile of 10 different essential oils. $25 at Elemi 905­852­5575 ginny.elemi@gmail.com Thursday, February 4

Uxbridge Parkinson's Support Group Meeting 1­3 p.m.

We meet once a month to share experiences and information on living with Parkinson's Disease. All Welcome. Bridgewater Building 22 James Hill Court www.uxparkinsons.com 905­852­6107

Running Clinics 6:30 p.m.

Signup & info night for 10­week running clinic to prepare participants to complete either the Uxbridge Half Marathon, 10km or 5km on April 25th in support of the Uxbridge Cottage Hospital & the Hospital Auxiliary.

Uxbridge Arena, Williamson Boardroom 905­852­6761

8

Le Reve Runway Fashion Show 6:30 p.m.

Silent auction and fashion show including collections

by Robyn Jones and Strawberry Threads.

Tickets $10 at Strawberry Threads. Proceeds to the Uxbridge Cottage Hospital.

Wyndance Golf Club 416­434­0963

Sunday, February 7

Finishing Class 10:30 a.m.

Learn how to professionally finish shoulders, sew seams together, pickup stitches and what we all love to do...block! $40 at On the Lamb www.onthelamb.ca 905­852­1944

Monday, February 8

Friday, February 5

Uxbridge Bruins 7:45 p.m.

Vs. Merchants at the Uxbridge Arena www.uxbridgebruins.com 905­852­6761 Saturday, February 6

Comedy Show 8 p.m.

Yuk Yuks performers Chris Quigley, Tony Venditti and Jeff McEnery at the Uxbridge Arena. Cash bar, auction, dancing after the show. Proceeds to the Uxbridge Bruins. $25 905­852­6518 www.uxbridgebruins.com Transformational Munay­ki Rites 1­4 10 a.m.

Come and experience the day learning and receive the foundation rite of the Peruvian ancient Shaman Practices that will assist you in your personal growth. $75 includes manual. Uxbridge Natural Healing Centre.

905­852­2601 www.angelahornestudio.com

Books & Brunch 11 a.m.

Prisoner of Tehran author Marina Nemat and 2009 Giller nominee Kim Echlin speak at Blue Herons’ popular series. Now at Wyndance Golf Club 450 Durham Road 21. $20. www.blueheronbooks.com 905­852­4284 Free Singing Lessons 7:15 p.m.

See February 1 for details.

Wednesday, February 10

Aromatherapy Level II 6:15­9:15 p.m.

Aromatherapy Level I is recommended. During this course participants will profile carrier oils, essential oils and learn how to blend. Each participant will make their own aromatherapy blends and products to take home. $25.

905­852­5575 ginny.elemi@gmail.com Uxbridge Registration Fair 6:30­8 p.m.

Discover and sign up for programs, sports, leisure and other organizations in Uxbridge, including minor lacrosse, soccer, highland dancing, karate, horseback riding and running. Free. uxbridgeregistrationfair.com 905­640­3966 Thursday, February 11

Friends of the Uxbridge Library 7­8 p.m.

Enhance and support the extension of the services and resources of the library, and assist in raising community awareness. Membership dues required.

905­852­9747 www.uxlib.com Friday, February 12

P.A. Day Activities At the Uxbridge Public Library. Call for details.

905­852­9747 www.uxlib.com

P.A DAY Everything Camp 8:30a.m.

This camp offers a little bit of everything and YOU get to choose! For ages 6­12. Sport enthusiasts will learn squash, play table tennis, and enjoy outdoor games.

Arts and craft enthusiasts will enjoy a movie at the Roxy Theatre and free swimming. Morning and afternoon care may be arranged. $40 Uxpool 905­852­7831 The BOAT Course 9 a.m.

Participants will engage in active classroom education all day. No water time is required. Pleasure Craft Operator certification cards are issued to those who have passed the written exam. $70. Ages 9­12.

Uxpool 905­852­7831

Monday, February 15

Wednesday, February 17

Free Swimming 10 a.m.­noon Uxpool 905­852­7831

Thursday, February 18

Snow Sculpture Contest & Beef Barbeque 10 a.m.

The rear parking lot of the Uxbridge Legion will be transformed into a free sculpture contest for Family Day, followed by a free beef barbeque.

Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905­852­5293

Free Skating Noon­2 p.m.

Uxbridge Arena 905­852­6761

Outdoor Skating Party Babysitting Course Noon­5 p.m.

9 a.m.

On Elgin Pond with free hot dogs, drinks and music A practical, all­day course designed by the Canadian from the Uxbridge Kinsmen, with proceeds to the Red cross to teach proper care of infants, toddlers and Uxbridge Youth Centre. older children. Receive Basic First Aid, and CPR training,and more $70. Ages 11–13.

Xbox Tournament Uxpool 905­852­7831 Noon­8 p.m.

Pizza and tournament at the Uxbridge Youth Centre.

Baby Alpaca Shrug uxbridgeyouthcentre.com 905­862­3456 10:30 a.m.

Soft... soft... soft...and easy! Learn to rib, decrease Family Ride Day stitches and increase stitches all to make an elegantly Come out for a family riding lesson! Sandford Stables pleasing shrug. $75 will be hosting a free family ride day this year. Kids www.onthelamb.ca 905­852­1944 must be at least 4 years of age and riders with or without any experience are welcome to come out.

Saturday February 13 905­852­9854 www.sandfordstables.net Bath Bomb Workshops 2­3 p.m.

Come out and have fun making bath bombs. During this workshop we will create at least 3 different kinds of bath bombs. $5. 905­852­5575 e­mail ginny.elemi@gmail.com

Valentines Day Reiki for Couples 9:30 a.m.

A full day with your loved one learning Reiki, taught by Reiki Master Angela Horne. Learn the techniques and explore the Reiki history and energy of giving and receiving deep healing relaxation for each other. $330 a couple at the Uxbridge Natural Healing Centre.

905­852­2601 www.angelahornestudio.com

Tuesday, February 16

Tea, Meeting & Entertainment 1 p.m.

Uxbridge Senior Citizen's Club at 75 Marietta St. Please bring a mug. New members always welcome. $5/year.

905­862­2144

Uxbridge Reads 7 p.m.

Join a celebrity panel, local book clubs and spectators as they duke it out to decide which book Uxbridge Reads. Council Chambers at the Township office.

Contact Blue Heron Books for more details. www.blueheronbooks.com 905­852­4284 6:30 p.m.

Library Board Meeting Uxbridge Library 905­852­9747 www.uxlib.com

Uxbridge Genealogy Monthly Meeting 7 p.m.

Topic: Researching in France presented by Heather Hill Gibson, followed by a discussion of Brick Walls.

Everyone welcome with $2 donation to the group. At the Uxbridge Library.

905­852­5079 uxgen.net Tuesday, February 23

Chamber of Commerce Monthly Breakfast Meeting 7:15 a.m.

Meet your fellow business owners and enjoy a great breakfast with a guest speaker. $10 for members, $15 for guests.

905­852­7683 www.uxcc.ca Wednesday, February 24

Peekaboo Pedicure Socks 10:30 a.m.

Got to keep those little toes pretty in the winter, too!

And you've got to keep those little beauties warm at the same time. How to do? Pedicure socks! A wonderful solution to a nagging problem. $60 www.onthelamb.ca 905­852­1944

February 26 Pancake Supper 6:15 p.m.

Baby Alpaca Shrug A Feast Before the Fast! Pancake supper plus sausages 10:30 a.m. and real maple syrup at St. Paul's Anglican Church.

See February 12 for details.

Adults $7, pre­school free, child (5­16) $4, New family rate (2 adults + children) $16. Tickets at the door.

905­852­7016 www.stpauls­uxbridge.ca

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Saturday, February 27

Mother Goose Read with Me Program 9:30 a.m.

Wellness Discovery Day This free program starts Tuesday, February 2 and runs Enjoy four relaxing sessions, tea luncheon & gift bag at for four weeks. Introduces babies (birth­12 months) to the Uxbridge Natural Healing Centre. Morning or the world of books, rhymes and songs with an early afternoon sessions. $100 literacy specialist.

905­852­7969 www.uxbridgenaturalhealingcentre.com Uxbridge Library 905­852­9747 www.uxlib.com Recital 3 p.m.

A recital of music by Joseph Haydn, for voice, trumpet and piano. St Andrew's­Chalmers Presbyterian Church. $15 at the door 905­852­5970 Regular Events

Guys and Dolls 8 p.m. or 2 p.m. Sunday matinees Feb 4­7, 11–14, 18­20 Ryleepuss Productions is proud to present this wonderful theatrical event, featuring favourite songs such as Luck be a Lady Tonight . Tickets $18 adults, $10 youth available at Woods & Woods. At the Uxbridge Music Hall.

905­852­1836 Family Play to Learn Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Thursdays 9:15–10:15 a.m.,10:30 a.m.–2 p.m.

Drop­in and registered play time and crafts. No fee.

Durham Farm and Rural Family Resources 905­862­2750 ext. 310 www.durhamfamilyresources.org

Udora play group 10 a.m.­noon For moms and their kids ages 0­6. Come out and have some fun with your little one. Repeats each Tuesday and Thursday at same time.

Udora Community Centre

Short mat bowling 1:30 p.m.

Every Thursday at the Uxbridge Seniors Centre. Bowls provided.

75 Marietta St. 905­862­2144 Bingo 7:30 p.m.

Great jackpots every Thursday.

Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905­852­5293

Euchre 7:30 p.m.

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

Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905­852­5293

Mindfulness Meditation noon Learn the art of enhanced awareness and explore your inner self using meditation techniques that you can apply in everyday life. At the Uxbridge Youth Centre. uxbridgeyouthcentre.com 905­862­3456 Karate 7­9 p.m.

Every Monday and Wednesday. Please call for details.

Zephyr Hall 905­852­5792 Yoga 9:30 a.m.

Every Tuesday. Please call for details.

Siloam Hall 905­852­7507

Meditation 7­9 p.m.

Bring comfortable cushions. Admission by donation.

Runs first and third Thursday each month.

Siloam Hall 905­852­9975

Indoor Walking Trail 6­8 p.m.

Weekly indoor walking trail at Uxbridge Secondary School. Bring comfortable shoes. All welcome. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. $10 one­ time fee (no charge if under 18). Tuesdays until February 23, 2010.

Sign up at Uxpool 905­852­7831

Phatcamp Bootcamp Tuesday 6 a.m., 5 p.m. Wednesday 6 a.m. Thursday 6 a.m., 5 p.m.

UxPool Wendy 905­852­4774 www.committofitness.net Envy This Fitness Classes Sandford 7 p.m.

Fitness for all levels: A fun and interactive class with certified personal trainers at the Sandford Community Centre. Exercise close to home! Tuesdays until February 23. $50. www.enviedbodiesfitness.ca 905­806­3488 Flow Yoga 6­7:15 p.m.

Experience stress­release, inspiration and ease in this all levels drop in yoga class . Wednesdays until March 31. All welcome! www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905­852­2782

Osteo­Fit Seniors Yoga 9­10 a.m.

This gentle class uses chairs to support the body while increasing range of motion, releasing tension and increasing relaxation. Also suitable for those with limited mobility & arthritis. . Join our welcoming & soothing class. 8 weeks for $99. Wednesdays until March 3 www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905­852­2782 Uxbridge Town Talk reserves the right to edit for space. We are not responsible for errors or omissions. A submission does not guarantee printing in the magazine. We do publish every event in our online calendar at www.uxbridgetowntalk .com.

Submit yours for FREE!!

Email events to info@uxbridgetowntalk.com or mail to: Event listing Uxbridge Town Talk P.O. Box 1035 Uxbridge, ON L9P 1N3

10

46 years young: A history of the Uxbridge Senior Citizens’ Club

By Sandy Johnston, club president

The Uxbridge Senior Citizens’ Club was founded in 1963. With the help of the Uxbridge Kinsmen Club, its beginnings were in the basement of the Uxbridge Music Hall. The fee to join the Club was $5, with $2 going to the affiliated club known as the United Senior Citizens of Ontario, headquartered in Mississauga.

Their USCO’s purpose is to a) unite for the betterment of all senior citizens in the community and the province, b) provide for an exchange of ideas and to investigate the problems of members through the proper channels, c) provide an opportunity for better conditions in the community, both for ourselves and for others, d) uphold the dignity and self respect of senior citizens, and e) strive constantly for the welfare and best interests of senior citizens by maintaining a good standing membership in the USCO. From its inception, USCC members have had many activities to choose from, including: card games, billiards, shuffleboard, line dancing, mat bowling, tai chi, dance parties, bus trips and special event dinners.

Our very active Uxbridge Senior Quilters have produced many quilts for the community, as well as donated quilts for local charities and raffles.

At our recent Christmas party, we were privileged to have more than 40 members of our club join us that are over 90 years old. We now have approximately 430 members, with several generations of some families joining in our many events.

The club membership is still $5, with $2 going to the USCO. All our activities are organized and maintained by volunteers. We are very proud of our club and excited for the future.

For more information, visit us at 75 Marietta St. or call 905­862­ 2144.

Keeping fit in the cold: Exercise for seniors 1. If weather prohibits you from going outside for activity, put on an exercise DVD and get moving in front of the TV. 2. Sign up for a weekly indoor exercise class ­ it's a great way to get out regularly and meet some new friends.

3. Consider purchasing a set of urban walking poles ­ they will help with stability on uneven surfaces and engage your upper body muscles while you are walking.

4. Check out Uxpool’s swim schedule. An aquafit class is a great way to get low impact activity in warm water.

5. Put your dancing shoes on and join a line or square dancing class.

6. Tai Chi, yoga, and pilates can help limber up stiff joints, improve balance and relax the mind.

7. Visit the Uxbridge Seniors’ Centre for local club events including mat bowling, shuffleboard and dances.

8. Spend time with children: They will keep you laughing and entertained while you keep busy keeping up with them!

9. Get out those soup cans or water bottles and use them for strength­building exercises including bicep curls, overhead presses or even squats.

Submitted by Kim Mortson www.bodydesign.ca

11

Ask the dentist: How to care for baby’s teeth When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?

As soon as there are teeth in the mouth, there is plaque on the teeth. Some people ask why bother cleaning baby teeth when they will just fall out? But primary teeth are important for speech development, nutrition, growth and eating, as well as prevention of gum disease and decay.

What age should I take my toddler to the dentist?

Normally, 2.5­3 years­old. The goal is to make sure you are properly cleaning your child’s teeth at home, and to introduce them to the dentist.

What happens?

Visit Dr. David McDowell, Aileen and Kristi (seated) at Dentistry on Brock 96 Brock St. W., Uxbridge 905­852­5550

The first visit is a ride in the chair, counting the teeth and a prize. We also discuss proper oral hygiene for home, and what foods/drinks to avoid. We recommend you bring your child in for regular checkups and preventive care every six months so we can build a relationship from that point on.

How do I prepare my kids for their first visit?

Simply put: Don’t! Often, in our attempts to make things

easier, we may inadvertently scare them. “Don’t worry, the dentist won’t use a drill.” Or, “The dentist isn’t painful.” If you hear that as a child, it can put ideas into your head.

Your dentist will present dentistry in a caring and positive manner to achieve a successful first impression.

How will my child react?

You can bring your kids along to your own appointment so they can watch you. Or, have the child in your lap. Some kids will go in on her/his own. Sometimes it’s the apprehension of the parent – we don’t give our kids enough credit!

What tips do you have for parents of young children?

* Nursing bottle decay is a problem. Do not put your baby to bed with milk or juice * Avoid excessive amounts of sugary/acidy drinks and foods such as juice, pop and candy * Start brushing as soon as there are teeth * Brush babies teeth for them. Brush and floss toddler’s teeth with them. Let the child start, but you finish

Consumers could soon have more choice and flexibility in auto insurance protection

Where there is more in insurance than just policy

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

The Province recently proposed more than 40 changes that will help keep insurance premiums affordable by allowing drivers to purchase coverage more suited for their budgets and individual needs.

This includes a new standard level of insurance that could reduce premiums, or choosing increased medical and rehabilitation coverage with more attendant care, housekeeping, death and funeral expenses.

As a broker, James~Campbell Insurance applauds these changes and looks forward to making sure our clients have insurance that fits their needs and budget.

For questions on these impending changes, call our helpful staff. We work with more than 20 financially stable insurance partners to offer all types of coverage, including:

· Auto · Property · Business · Recreational · Life · Critical illness & disability · Travel · Employee benefits · Investments We are not a direct insurer or voice on the phone, but pride ourselves on having a personable, knowledgeable and professional team right here in our community.

We’ve served residents from our Uxbridge and Mt. Albert locations for more than 30 years, and are actively involved in community activities.

Next time you review your insurance needs or have questions or concerns, please call or visit our interactive website to request a quote, find after­hours claims numbers and more.

Take the challenge: A new year, a new you!

Wendy Lee Commit to Fitness 905­852­4774 wendy1234@sympatico.ca 12

Wendy Lee, an Uxbridge resident, fitness instructor, personal trainer, life coach and nutrition specialist is planning to surprise two people on February 14 with a free six­month training program, a six month membership to Snap Fitness and more to help them achieve their weight­loss goals.

The program is called NEW YEAR, NEW YOU. This program is fashioned after the popular television show The Biggest Loser.

Wendy Lee is looking for individuals who “are looking for significant weight loss,” adding she doesn’t want someone who just needs to shed a few pounds. You have to be 100% committed to this program in order to be successful.

“I want someone who really wants to make a change.”

Emotionally and physically.

The chosen candidates will receive two personal training sessions per week and will follow a proper nutritional diet. They will “journal” through this life changing journey.

It’s an all­natural diet. “It’s very budgeted, easy to follow and it works,” she says.

Those applying must be in basic good health and be willing to be photographed or videotaped during their sessions. The participants will have their current diet assessed (which may entail a tour of their kitchen and a visit to a grocery store), and will

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undergo regular weigh­ins and measurements. Support will also be given via telephone calls and motivational talks.

Wendy Lee is a success story herself: After enduring a physically abusive relationship years ago, her life was shattered and the one­time fitness competitor and mentor soon found herself alone, afraid, broke, shattered and a mere shadow of who she once was.

After counselling, Wendy slowly got back into the “fitness passion” she so loved and has continually moved forward helping others who have been in similar situations. Wendy gained control of her life and hasn’t looked back.

For successfully completing this program, the biggest thing you’re winning is your health and a huge lifestyle change. You will love the NEW YOU and never want to look back!

We are seeking residents aged 18 to 55 to apply. Those interested should send an email, detailing age, gender, weight, weight­loss goal, and why they think they should be chosen, along with a photo, to wendy1234@sympatico.ca. She has also set up a Facebook discussion page.

Please apply by February 12. Our two lucky winners will be notified on February 14, 2010.

From My Mom's Kitchen Growing up, my Mom frequently made this delicious and hearty dish with ground beef. Since I no longer eat red meat, I wanted a recipe with ground turkey that could be spiced up. This is the result – a household fave my kids love that I make all winter long (it freezes excellently!). ~Carly

Tex­Mex Shepherd's Pie Ingredients

1 medium onion, diced 1 lb ground turkey or chicken 2 tbs. chili powder 1 tbsp cumin dash cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste 1/8 cup flour 1/3 cup water 1/2 cup ketchup 1 cup chicken broth 1 cup frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

­In large skillet over medium heat, cook meat and onion together with spices until no longer pink ­Whisk water with flour, then add to skillet along with ketchup and broth ­Cook until thick and bubbly, then stir in veggies ­Place in casserole dish, then cover with mashed potatoes, smoothing with a fork ­Bake at 350 degree for 30­40 minutes

For a sweet Valentine treat, make these super easy goodies – my Mother’s favourite indulgence! ~Carly

Valentine Chocolate Balls 1 can condensed milk 2 c. graham wafer crumbs 3 tbs. cocoa powder 2 tbs. softened butter

© Tanyae | Dreamstime.com

­mix all ingredients ­chill in fridge or freezer until slightly hardened ­roll into small balls ­can roll in: icing sugar, chopped nuts, coconut etc. ­keep refrigerated

Work smart at home

by Kirsty Kernohan

Whether you work from home or telecommute, here are some tips to help you set up and maintain an effective and efficient home office.

1. Set a schedule and stick to it. Whether it's 9­5 or 8­1. Figure out what works best and work during your scheduled hours. Working 24/7 isn't effective and you will burn yourself out.

2. Set up a dedicated office area. This keeps you focused and others out of your important papers, files and projects. A room with a door is especially helpful.

3. Be professional. Just because you might be in your pajamas doesn't mean that you can't be courteous on the phone or in email.

4. Office hours are just that. Explain to your partner and children that your office hours are just that – work time. Errands or other household chores are done when your work day is over.

5. Clean up your desk at the end of each workday. This sets the stage for the next day, and clears the mind and work surface of clutter.

6. Breaks. Just because you are at home doesn't mean you shouldn’t get up stretch. Consider a walk after lunch, even if it's just to check your mailbox.

7. Network! Being in a home office can be hard, but networking with groups like the Chamber of Commerce (www.uxcc.ca) is a great way to meet other business owners and get support while you grow your business.

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