From The PublishersWelcome to our green issue!This month we celebrate Earth Day, which marks its 40­year anniversary on April 22. Whatlaunched as an environmental awareness event in the U.S. in 1970 now spans across the globeand is the largest environmental celebration worldwide. Canada joined the movement in 1990.Earth Day is a powerful catalyst for change, and Uxbridge is doing its part by with a huge eventplanned for downtown. It includes spotlights on local food, local merchants showcasing their greenproducts, services and practices, entertainment and music. As the sky darkens, the streets will belit up by candlelight. Look for details in our packed April events calendar starting on page 10.Bring your family, and see what our little corner of the world is doing to help preserve and protectthe planet.As a globe­trotting environmental journalist, we asked Uxbridge resident Stephen Leahy toshare his philosophies to live greener locally. See what he had to say on page 5. And parents canuse this month as a fun, educational time for kids with our neat list of green activities on page 17.Did you know the arena has taken many measures to save energy? One of the Township's mostrecognized employees, Facilities Manager Bob Ferguson, chatted with us in this month's Thebusiness of article on page 7. Our green tribute is rounded out with our favourite environmentallyfriendly products found in Uxbridge (page 6).We hope you enjoy our community spotlight on the IODE (page 17), delicious Mom's Kitchenrecipe (page 18) and much more inside.In early March we had a launch party to celebrate Uxbridge Town Talk's arrival in thecommunity, and thank our friends and supporters (see photos on page 8). A special thanks to you,our readers, for your help in continuing to help us develop our voice in Uxbridge Township andcelebrate this most wonderful place we all call home.

Managing Editor: Carly FosterArt Director: Kirsty KernohanCopy Editor: Jodi Avery MacLean

Editorial Assistants:Jennifer O'DonnellShelby Stokes

Contributors:Sandy JohnstonKeith RobinsonJonathan van Bilsen

Contact UsPhone: 647­476­3056Email: info@uxbridgetowntalk.comwww.uxbridgetowntalk.com

Mailing Address:Uxbridge Town TalkP.O. Box 1035Uxbridge, ONL9P 1N3

On our cover:© Mark Hryciw | Dreamstime.com

3

Editorial Message: Unless otherwise stated, all productreviews, articles and other features are chosen by us and areunpaid. If you would like to be featured, please contact us.

Uxbridge Town Talk is a Sweet World Media monthlypublication. The publisher assumes no responsibility orliability for the claims, views, opinions, comments oradvertisements herein. The Publisher reserves the right torefuse any advertisement.

Uxbridge Town Talk does not endorse any advertised product,service or event. The Publisher is not responsible for anytypographical errors. Advertisers are responsible for anycopyright issues. No part of this publication may bereproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.

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

4

From April 24­May 1, Uxbridge midwife Tiffany Haidon istraveling to earthquake­ravaged Haiti with an Americanorganization called Midwives for Haiti. Here she will teachHaitian women much­needed obstetrical skills, ascurrently 76% of babies are delivered by unskilledwomen, and the country has the highest infant andmaternal mortality rates in the western hemisphere.Haidon is seeking any monetary donations or medicalsupplies such as antibiotics, dehydration salts, andvitamins. To help, contact 905­862­3535 or visitwww.uxbridgecommunitymidwives.com.

It's easy to remember what you can recycle and compost,but tricky to remember what you can't. Here are somecommon items left at the curb that must go in thegarbage:

Recycle and compost what?

The World Wildlife Fund has more than 100species of wild animals up for symbolicadoption – a perfect gift for theenvironmentalist or animal lover in your life.Choose from the blue­footed booby, polar bear,great white shark or even a seahorse.www.worldwildlife.org.

Protect the futureof nature

Many local farms are now booking customersfor their Community Supported Agricultureprograms. When you buy into a CSA, youreceive shares (produce, meat, eggs andsometimes dairy) in the farm's bounty – andshare the risks due to weather and otherfactors beyond the control of the farmer. In­season, fresh, local food has never beenmore accessible. There are several inUxbridge Township. Log on to csafarms.ca orvisit www.durhamfarmfresh.ca to find a localfarmer near you.

Midwives for Haiti

­plastic muffin and berryclam shells­take­out containers­Styrofoam or papercoffee cups­plastic egg cartons

­nursery plant pots andtrays­baby wipes & diapers­gum­pet waste

Interview excerpts by Carly FosterManaging EditorFrom his home in Uxbridge, environmentalist, independent environmental journalist and one­time federal GreenParty candidate Stephen Leahy writes about the furthest reaches of our planet. Weasked him to pull from his travels and experiences to share three philosophies we canuse to gain a better understanding of our community and environment.

Get outsideTake the time to be outside. We're becoming a very indoor culture. I hardly ever seekids playing outside. Walk more. In the evenings, go for walks to meet yourneighbours. In poor countries, where people are always outside, they are very muchaware of what's happening in their environment – far more than we are. (The otherday) I was honked at for crossing the road downtown. That kind of attitude has tochange. I just returned from the Seychelles Islands (an archipelago nation of 115islands in the Indian Ocean). The roads are only one lane wide, with few exceptions,and there are no sidewalks. Few people own cards, and everyone walks on the road.There are rarely accidents. They drive with an awareness that they are sharing theroad with pedestrians.

Harness the Earth for energyWind farms are very common in many parts of Europe. They're generally situated away from where people live,on farms. Nobody objects to them, and they're integrated into the landscape. No one notices after a while.Uxbridge would make a great spot for wind farms. And we can all benefit from the (recent weeks) of sunnyweather. There are many new types of solar power that are flexible. I have something that hangs off my backdeck for an hour or two and it charges my cell phone. We need to encourage and use alternative energy – butalso not use energy in the first place.Slow downPeople need to take an opportunity to reexamine their lives. Why are we in such a big hurry? That's one of thereasons I switched careers from the corporate sector. I didn't want to be in that high­speed world where I wasmissing out on living. The future will not be like the past, and you have to prepare for changes.

5

Stephen Leahy on his recenttrip to the Seychelles Islands

Uxbridge would make a great spot forwind farms, says Leahy.

6

Safe, non-toxic spring(bathroom) cleaning

What we love most about Bio­Life’s tub + tile soap scum +stain remover cleaner is how itdoesn’t burn your lungs. Or yourhands. Or your bathroom. Justphosphate­free, pear­violetscented, biodegradable, planet­loving cleanliness.$4.49 at Shoppers Drug Mart

One of the things we hate mostabout mall food courts and takeout are the one­use plasticutensils. So we were thrilled tofind these bamboo utensil setsand clip­on holder (made fromrecycled plastic bottles) by To­Go Ware. Perfect for your purse,lunches and our planet.$14.95 at Elemi Organics

Wooden eating

This tear­ and water­resistant,recyclable wallet is made fromexpress mail envelopes. Itdevelops a classic, vintage lookthe longer one uses it. Withfunky designs including gorillasand subway maps, they satisfythe Earth and design lover alike.

$14.95 at Presents, Presents,Presents

Paper wallet foryour papermoney

A packed guide of allCanadian products andservices you need to eco­fyyour home while pocketingplanet­friendly cash savings.Includes a sustainable homechecklist, green electronics,garbage­free living andgrowing your own veggies.$24.95 at Blue Heron Books

GreenReading

Parents will love the Tuck and Godiapering system from Uxbridge'sown cloth diapering creators MonkeyDoodlez. These soft and fuzzybumbum covers accommodatemultiple sizes and are crafted so younever have to touch soiled fabricagain. Now that's something tocelebrate.$15 for covers, $30 for pack of threepads at www.monkeydoodlez.com

7

by Carly FosterManaging EditorWho: Bob Ferguson, facilities manager, Township of UxbridgeWhere: Uxbridge arena and community centre, 291 Brock St. W.By the numbers: First ice pad and community centre built in 1978; second ice pad added1997. Approximately 600,000 people enter each year. Community centre rental is $600.Environmental initiatives by the numbers: In 2007 the arena went through a behind­the­scenes energy transformation that has since saved the Township $50,000­$60,000 a year.Energy­efficient lights were installed in the second ice pad ($13,000 cost). Slow startattachments were added to the facility's compressors, which ramps them to full power over 3­5seconds as opposed to right away like a light switch. This is not as hard on the equipment,resulting in savings. An infared 1000E ice temperature monitoring system was installed. Theprevious method would measure the temperature of the concrete pad as opposed to the actualice. The new system pinpoints the required temperature – ­6 degrees Celsius – to within 1­2degrees, resulting in the ice freezing quicker (and less expensively). Finally, the system used tocool the compressors was changed from water to glycol. This is cleaner, does not require freshwater, nor send used water down the drain. In 2010, energy saving lights will go in the first icepad, while the furnace, roof­top units and hot water tanks will be replaced, at a cost of $200,000.To do: The arena is open for hockey, figure skating and public skating August­June. From June­July, the ice comes out of both pads for summerlacrosse. During the summer, the entire facility is repainted, including stands, hallways and locker rooms. Boards and glass are repaired, while all thefloors are stripped and waxed. The community hall is regularly rented for receptions, sales and parties.Neat fact: Ferguson has worked for the Township since Grade 10, starting as a parks and recreation employee. Seven years ago he took over as headof parks, and two years ago added facilities to his roster of responsibilities. He's also a volunteer firefighter.More info: 905­852­3081.

Bob Ferguson, Uxbridge Township's facilitiesmanager, shows some of the arena's newgreen initiatives

8

We recently thanked our supporters and family with anUxbridge Town Talk launch party upstairs at the HobbyHorse Arms. A special thank you to our readers: we lovehearing from you, and your emails, phone calls, word­of­mouth accolades and story ideas are why we do what wedo.

Our lovely cake, with ourMarch cover. Thanks toSugar FX for a helping itlook great!

L­R: Kirsty, UxbridgeMayor Bob Shepherd,Carly

L­R: Carly, Shelley Macbeth of BlueHeron Books, Kirsty

Carly enjoying the night Jill Breugem of Market MomsShopping Events Kim Mortson of Body Design

David McDowell and KristiGranti from Dentistry onBrockL­R: Sandy Johnston andGerri Lynn O'Connor

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

Photographs by RandyLoewen of Stuido 4Photography.

10

Thursday, April 1Easter Centerpiece10 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.Create an all white arrangement for your holidaytable, incorporating candles, hydrangea, roses, orchidsand fruit. $50www.lapetitefleur.ca 905­862­3697Home Info Night7 p.m.Are you selling/buying a house/cottage? Come out andhave our experts answer your questions regardingnew government rules and regulations.905­640­3966 or bnortheast@powergate.caFriday, April 2Gorgon Spring Fling7 p.m.Annual Spring Fling Dance featuring 3 Sheets 2 TheWind.905­852­5283Saturday, April 3Knitted Knockers10:30 a.m.These knitted breast prosthesis give women back thatpersonal power over how they chose to look. $45. OnThe Lamb, 53 Toronto St. N.purl@onthelamb.ca www.onthelamb.caSunday, April 4Siloam Orchards Giant Easter Egg Hunt11:30 a.m.www.siloamorchards.com 905­852­9418Tuesday, April 6Yoga for Health1:30 p.m.Increase your overall health and well being with Yoga.Learn postures and breathing techniques to help healthe body, focus the mind and decrease stress.$12/each or $90 for full session. At Uxpool until May18.416­571­0447 pathwaystopeaceyoga@hotmail.com

Stroller Fitness10 a.m.Enjoy the outdoors in an interval program using bandsand your own body's resistance, this class is designedfor the unique needs of moms and their stroller­agechildren. $12/class. Until April 27.www.nrg4lifefitness.com admin@nrg2go.netWednesday, April 7Oak Ridges Trail Association Hike9:30 a.m.This is a 4+ hr., 14+ km moderate to fast pace loophike on the Glen Major Brock Tract. Meet at theparking area on the east side of Uxbridge Conc. 6, 1.5km north of Uxbridge town line or 5.5 km south ofDurham 21. Lunch on the trail.Russ Burton 905­830­2862Yoga & the Chakras9:30 a.m.Learn Yoga postures and breathing techniques specificto each of the seven main energy centres in the body:the Chakras. $12/ class or $90 for full session. AtUxpool until May 19.416­571­0447 pathwaystopeaceyoga@hotmail.comSpring Bulb Planter10 a.m.Created in a rectangle container, you will learn how tocreate a mixed bulb planter in time to pick up yourspirits for spring!. $40.www.lapetitefleur.ca 905­862­3697Conversational French10 a.m.A new program for anyone in the communityinterested in taking part in an informal group formatfor dialogue in French.www.uxlib.com 905­852­9747Meditation Classes11 a.m.Learn how to quiet the mind and experiencemeditation with a focus on healing. Specific healingand stress reducing meditation techniques will beintroduced and practiced. $10 or $55. Uxpool. UntilMay 5.416­571­0447 pathwaystopeaceyoga@hotmail.com

Volunteer Fair6:30 p.m.Meet the organizations in town looking for volunteers.Great for teens looking for community hours! Held atthe Township office.905­640­3966 or bnortheast@powergate.caLearn to Run6:30 p.m.Designed for the "newbie" runner, participants willlearn running techniques and training elements,including warm­ups, stretching, regulating pace andgoal setting. $168 + GST for 10 weeks. Wed April 7 toJune 23.www.bodydesign.ca 905­473­3888Friday, April 9Adult Hockey Tournament8 a.m.Weekend­long tournament at the Uxbridge arena.905­852­3081Taoist Tai Chi Open House9 a.m.Find balance and improve it at the same time. You'llreduce stress while increasing core strength,flexibility, stamina and balance. Free at UxbridgeSeniors' Centre.www.taoist.org robertl_hill@hotmail.comThis Month in Bloom...10 a.m.This club meets monthly to learn new design secretsand tricks of the trade! A pot luck appetizer style gettogether where good food and friends meet to becreative! Bring your own container and make a freshfloral arrangement to take home. $40.www.lapetitefleur.ca 905­862­3697Socks! Socks! Socks!10:30 a.m.You thought that socks were hard...not so! We willteach you how to knit in the round, make a heel andend up with a wonderful woollen sock. $75 includespattern, instruction and credit of $15 towards wool.www.onthelamb.ca 905­852­1944

11

Penquin Vest1:30 p.m.Fab, easy and cute as a button! Simple, cool in cottonand a flattering shape for everyone. $75 includespattern, instruction and $30 credit towards yarn.www.onthelamb.ca 905­852­1944Saturday, April 10April Showers Luncheon & CardsNoonLunch followed by cards or other board games. Cashbar. Tickets: $60 for a table of four or $20 each. Soldin advance only at Blue Heron Books, On The Lamb,and Presents, Presents, Presents. Uxbridge SeniorsCentre, 75 Marietta St.905­862­3035Sunday, April 1111 a.m.Blue Heron Books' Books and Brunch spring series forApril is Stephen Leacock award for humour winner,Terry Fallis. At Wyndance Golf Club. $20.www.blueheronbooks.com 905­852­4282Monday, April 12Yoga for Runners7 p.m.The style of Vinyasa yoga connects postures andcreates flow linking movement to breath. $140 + GST.Until June 21.www.bodydesign.ca 905­473­3888Pumping with Poles7:30 p.m.You already enjoy urban pole walking, so why notbring your workout to a new level? In this class, you’llbuild on the skills learned in “Pole Walkers forBeginners,” and take your cardiovascular workouteven further. $80 + GST with poles, $140 + GSTwithout poles. Until June 7.www.bodydesign.ca 905­473­3888

Tuesday, April 13Girls on the Go6:30 p.m.This class will establish positive exercise routines, life­long healthy habits and encourage a positive selfimage. $140 + GST. Until June 15.www.bodydesign.ca 905­473­3888Spring Has Sprung Cooking Class7 p.m.Spring is here and what better than to have a springdinner to usher in the season with style? PassionateCook's Essentials kitchen shoppe, 53 Toronto St. N.$85905­862­3359 www.thepassionatecook.caGluten­free Cookies & Brownies7 p.m.Have you been struggling with gluten­free baking andgetting it to work for you? Learn how to makeadaptable recipes for cookies and brownies. $45.www.frankiesristorante.ca 905­852­1011Thursday, April 15Friendship Shawl1:30 p.m.You will learn simple increases ­ it's easy, fun and youwill amaze huge crowds! $65 includes pattern andinstruction and a credit of $30 towards wool. On TheLamb, 53 Toronto St. N.www.onthelamb.ca 905­852­1944Uxbridge Genealogy Group7 p.m.At the Uxbridge Library Lower Hall. This month's topicis what you can learn about your ancestry from DNApresented by John McLean. Everyone welcome. $2.www.uxgen.net 905­852­6973Men's Only Fitness8 p.m.Tired of feeling like you’re competing at the gym butstill want the benefits of a dynamic workout? Try ourun­gym fitness class, where you can condition your

cardiovascular system, improve your core strengthand tone your muscles in a relaxed, encouraging all­male setting. $140 + GST.www.bodydesign.ca 905­473­3888Saturday, April 17Earth Day Clean Up at Goodwood Park10 a.m.Everyone welcome to assist. Weather permitting. Raindate April 24, 10 a.m.905­640­3966 or bnortheast@powergate.caKnitted Knockers10:30 a.m.See details April 3Russel de Carle of Prairie Oyster plays Greenbank8 p.m.Greenbank Folk Music Society is delighted to presentPrairie Oyster lead singer and Juno nominee, Russelde Carle. Greenbank Centennial Hall, Greenbank.Tickets $20 available at Blue Heron Books.905­985­8351 cartre@gmail.comSunday, April 18Oak Ridges Trail Association Hike9:30 a.m.This is a 3 hr. 10+ km moderate pace hike in GlenMajor Forest. There is some hilly terrain. No dogsplease. Meet at the parking lot 5 km south of Durham21 on the east side of Durham 6th Conc.Jill Doble 905­764­1673Sit Means Sit Dog Training Open HouseNoonSit Means Sit Dog Training, located at GreenbrierFarm, 1580 Brock Rd. Meet our trainer, get greatadvice on how to reach your training goals.www.sitmeanssituxbridge.com 352­789­3058

(continued on page 12)

We reserve the right to edit for space. We are notresponsible for errors or omissions. We publish every

event in our online calendar atwww.uxbridgetowntalk.com.

Submit yours for FREE!!Email events to info@uxbridgetowntalk.com or mail

(see our address on page 3)

(continued from page 12)3rd Annual Canadian Tire Ladies Night6:30 p.m.A night of free fun showcasing what we have to offerto women as we head into spring. Come see the storefull of ladies learning about new innovativeproducts/services, winning great prizes andunderstanding that Canadian Tire is not just a men'sstore. Featuring CityTV's Frankie Flowers.327 Toronto St. S. 905­852­3315Thursday, April 22Uxbridge Earth Day Candlelight Party4 p.m.Check out local merchants' and farmers' greenproducts, services and practices. Lots of greenactivities for the family. Entertainment, food andmore. Grand finale: The downtown will be lit up bycandlelight!Blue Heron Books 905­852­4282Five @ 58 Open House4 p.m.Unearth the real you with organic products, Chinesemedicine and accupuncture, photo booking, naturalhealing and yoga. Try our services for free, and enterto win a $500 grand prize.905­852­5575.Friday, April 23Socks! Socks! Socks!10:30 a.m.See details April 9Penquin Vest1:30 p.m.See details April 9Saturday, April 248th annual Uxbridge Huck Fin Youth Fishing Day9:15 a.m.The parade starts at 9:15 at Elgin Pond, followed byfishing and fun. To register, pick up a ribbon at any ofthe following locations or at the pond on event day:Uxbridge Canadian Tire, Blue Heron Books, UxbridgeLegion, Presents, Presents, Presents or Uxpool.Speed Reading Workshop10:30 a.m.Learn the process of eliminating the reading barriersthat slow us down, especially when we wish to covercertain material quickly.Uxbridge Library 905­852­9747 www.uxlib.comSunday, April 25Uxbridge Half Marathon9 a.m.This is a charity event in support of the UxbridgeCottage Auxiliary21.1 km, 10 km, 5km family run/walk & kids dash.Spectacular courses on scenic trails and countryroads. $5,000 in diamonds to be won!www.uxbridgehalfmarathon.com 905­852­9771 ext.5237Oak Ridges Trail Association Hike10 a.m.This is an 8.5 km hike along Albright Rd. to Ashburn

Rd and High Point Rd. Lunch following. Meet atAlbright Rd. and the 6th Conc., just south of NorthWalker Woods.David Francis 905­936­4446Monday, April 26Dress Rehearsal for Competition7:45 p.m.Come watch the Pineridge Chorus of Sweet AdelinesInternational practice for competition. The show willlast approximately 15 minutes at the Music Hall.905­852­7562Tuesday, April 27Uxbridge Chamber of Commerce Business Breakfast7:15 a.m.Business and community representatives are welcometo join a breakfast meeting to enjoy networking andguest speakers featured monthly. $15 non­chambermembers $10 current chamber members.905­852­7683 www.uxcc.caGil Penalosa1 p.m. & 7 p.m.Gil Penalosa provides an inspirational presentationabout creating better and healthier communities. Freeevent, but you must RSVP.905­852­7831 info@town.uxbridge.on.caTaste of Thai Cooking Class7 p.m.If you are looking for authentic Thai cuisine, then stopright now. Recipes from well known Thai chefs andwill not disappoint. Passionate Cook's Essentialskitchen shoppe, 53 Toronto St. N $85.www.thepassionatecook.ca 905­862­3359Wednesday, April 28As We See It1 p.m.Local resident Chuck Taylor describes his adventuresin the Warm Heart of Africa. Refreshments included.$2.Uxbridge Library 905­852­9747 www.uxlib.comFriday, April 30Spring Serenade7:30 p.m.Uxbridge One Voice Singers' spring concert at St.Paul's Anglican Church. $15. Kids under 10 free.Tickets at Presents, Presents, Presents or at the door.905­852­0770 www.onevoicesingers.orgRegular EventsThat SummerApril 8­17OnStage Uxbridge presents That Summer, a play by DavidFrench.. At the Uxbridge Music Hall.www.onstageuxbridge.com 905­904­0895Family Play to LearnMonday, Tuesday & Wednesday 9 a.m., Thursdays 9:15 a.m.Drop­in and registered play time and crafts. No fee. DurhamFarm Family and Rural Family Resources 905­862­2750 x310 www.durhamfamilyresources.org

Udora play group10 a.m.For parents and their kids ages 0­6. Tuesday and Thursdayat the Udora Community CentreMarni 705­228­8114Bingo7:30 p.m.Great jackpots every Thursday.Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905­852­5293Euchre7:30 p.m.All are welcome for a fun evening of cards and prizes everyFriday.Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905­852­5293Meditation7 p.m.Bring comfortable cushions. Admission by donation. Firstand third Thursday at Siloam Hall905­852­9974STAND3­4 p.m.Come explore and respond to social injustice here andaround the world. Free every Saturday at the UxbridgeYouth Centrewww.uxbridgeyouthcentre.com 905­862­3456Family Yoga12:15 p.m.Discover and explore yoga through imaginative poses,breathing exercises, games, relaxation and visualization.$75 for one parent and child on Sundays.www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905­852­2782Easy Fit Yoga10 a.m.Limber up and then relax! This class involves light cardiomoves combined with strengthening exercises and yoga­based stretching; geared to 50+ but all ages welcome. $10.Mondays.www.nrg4lifefitness.com 905­852­4750Flow Yoga6 p.m.Experience stress­release, inspiration and ease in this alllevels drop­in yoga class. Wednesdays.www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905­852­2782Phatcamp BootcampTuesdays 6 a.m. & 5 p.m. Wednesday 6 a.m., Thursday 6a.m. & 5 p.m. at Uxpool.905­852­4774 www.committofitness.netIndoor Cycling10 a.m.An indoor spinning class taught by certified Madd DogInstructor Brenda Ostermaa. At Range Of Motion Studio.$7.50. Fridays.705­437­2196 fitnessnrg@hotmail.com

Thank you Sue Carmichael for your great work with Uxbridge quilters,regarding the profile in the March issue of Uxbridge Town Talk. I would like toshare our group of ladies that have helped our community working from theUxbridge Senior Citizens’ Club as well as joining Quilters Cupboard for manyfund raising events.“Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinkingcreates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.”Lao­Tzu, Chinese philosopher

The Uxbridge Senior Quilters create so much kindness in our community.Since I became a member of the Uxbridge Senior Citizens’ Club, the quiltershave always been a mystery as to why they come into the Centre five days aweek from 12 to 4 p.m.They profess to enjoy quilting and that they are doing it to keep busy, butover the years I have seen them complete baby and lap size quilts, to huge,oversized quilts with very difficult stitching. They accept partially made quiltsfrom members, non members, seniors and folks that have heard about themfrom friends or a local quilt shop. They have worked on quilts their grannieshad kept in a closet or keepsake chest for many years and smelt like mothballs. They charge just $2 per hour, per person, working on each keepsake.They keep records of the number of hours they spend each day and charge asquoted.Their favourite quilts are the completed works that are donated. Theydonate one quilt per year to the Jennifer Ashley Children's Charity,which israffled off to help needy children. They donate one quilt to our club for raffle,and help organize our yearly bazaar, by collecting, baking, knitting, anddonating.They also help sell yearly memberships, dinner tickets, dance tickets, meetnew members and introduce them to our club. They have a craft area wherefolks donate completed handmade items, which they then sell to support ourclub.

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

The quilting ambassadors

14

By Sandy JohnstonSpecial to Uxbridge Town Talk

___________________Sandy Johnston left the beautiful town of Stouffville forthe picturesque town of Uxbridge eight years ago. Sheis a retired employee of Choko Motorsports and hasbeen president of the Uxbridge Senior Citizens' Club forthe past five years. Sandy has three children, fivegrandchildren and three great­grandchildren. She lovesbowling and traveling.

L­R: Enda Archibald, Margaret McNelly, Ruby Christiansen ofthe Uxbridge Senior Quilters. The ladies hand­stitcheverything.

by Jonathan van BilsenSpecial to Uxbridge Town TalkSitting quietly under a large, shade tree,waiting patiently for a hawk or deer to comewithin range, requires patience not common tothe average person. When, finally the animalmakes an appearance, you slowly raise yourcamera to eye level and slide your finger softlyon the shutterto capture thataward winningphotograph.This scenario isshared byhundreds ofwould­bewildlifephotographerson their never­ending quest toachieve theperfect shot.Wildlifephotography isone of the mostrewardingforms ofpicture makingand is also oneof the mostchallenging. Unlike traditional portrait orlandscape photography, in wildlife your subjectmoves continuously and rarely performs theway you anticipate.Fortunately camera manufacturing hasevolved to allow photographers to successfullycapture on disk, animals and birds in theirnatural habitat without spending days oftracking and cursing. In order to get that‘faultless’ image a few rules must be followed.First and foremost the right equipment is a

necessity. A sturdy, weather resistant tripod isa must. Lots of batteries and memory cardsare essential and most importantly the camerahas to be up to the task. A digital SLR with avery fast shutter speed and the ability to set ahigh ISO is crucial. Fortunately the new line offull frame cameras by Canon, Sony and Nikonare ideal for the charge. Lastly, and possiblythe most important element, is patience.Before you begin you must knowwhere to locate animals. Whetheron the Serengeti plains of Africaor deep within the Durham forestof Uxbridge, having knowledge ofhow animals behave is an asset.Find a spot and park yourselfuntil the wildlife comes into view.Leaving appropriate food candraw animals to specificlocations. Well known birdphotographer, Bobby Brown, willcarry mice to attract owls. Arcticwildlife photographer JamesWanuki, always has andabundant supply of fruit andnuts.Regardless of the challengesand obstacles nothing beatscapturing that ‘perfect’photograph of a wild animal in itsnatural habitat.___________Jonathan van Bilsen is aninternationally traveledphotographer and author.He is co­owner of Studio 4photography, a group ofnorth Durham professionalphotographers.www.studio4photography.ca

15

by Keith RobinsonSpecial to Uxbridge Town TalkOur digital lives could use the same kind ofspring cleanout as our physical homes. Here's aquick guide.

Get your email under controlChances are this is where your biggest digitalmess lies, which makes it a great place to start.Empty your inbox. Completely. Take anythingthat's been languishing and either deal with it,delete it or file it away. Once your inbox is clean,take a stab at organizing your folders.Organize your desktopAn organized digital life means a cleandesktop. It's easy to let things pile up there:downloads, working files, photos etc. If you letthem, they will pile up, just like papers on yourreal desktop. Take some time to clean it off.Organize, archive and deleteIn addition to the mess on your desktop youmay have a mess of internal files that need goingthrough. I've got two words for you: archive anddelete. Go through your files and find those thatyou need to keep but may not need on a regularbasis. Archive those. You may very well also havefiles that you'll never need again and have nobusiness holding onto. Delete those.Make Backups and Do MaintenanceOnce you've got everything organized, takesome time to back up essential files and do anysystem maintenance. Run a defrag, update youroperating system, uninstall unneeded programs,etc.___________D. Keith Robinson is an associate editor ofLifehacker, an award­winning daily blog thatfeatures tips, shortcuts, and downloads that helpyou get things done smarter and more efficiently.lifehacker.com

Advertising Feature

Attention boaters: Don't get caught without your license!As the warm weather sets in, remember that all boat

operators – regardless of age or the boat's horsepower –must carry proof of competency or risk a $250 fine.The Pleasure Craft Operator Card is the easiest way todo this. Boaters complete a one-time, Transport Canadaaccredited safety test and are licensed.Besides the PCO Card, proof of competency can

include also having successfully completed a boatsafety course in Canada prior to April 1 999, orcompletion of a rental-boat safety checklist for power-driven rental boats.James~Campell Insurance Brokers works with over

20 financially stable insurance partners to offer alltypes 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 ourcommunity. We’ve served residents from our Uxbridgeand Mt. Albert locations for more than 30 years, andare actively involved in community activities.Next time you review your insurance needs or have

questions or concerns, please call or visit ourinteractive website to request a quote, find after-hoursclaims numbers and more.

Where there is more ininsurance than justpolicy

www.jamescampbellinsurance.com33 Toronto St. N.905­852­9191 or 1­888­354­6444

16

17

The IODE's focus is on education and women, and the feisty,active group of 34 dedicated ladies take this to heart with ahost of different charities. Most recently, the IODE has beenputting together 75 'Fresh Start' baskets to celebrate the club's75th anniversary in Uxbridge. These baskets include much­needed kitchen items and non­perishable food for womengetting a new start in Durham Region shelters. This submittedphoto shows members recently putting baskets together.Coming up on April 10 is the IODE's April Showers card partyand luncheon. See our events calendar on page 10 for moredetails. The group is always looking for new members; pleasecall Elaine Barrie at 905­862­3035 for more information.

Renowned for their philanthropy, cooking and heritage, theImperial Order Daughters of the Empire (IODE) is one of the oldestservice clubs in Uxbridge.Nationally, the organization was formed in 1900 to promotepatriotism, loyalty and service to others. The group's oldestmember, in her nineties, joined the organization as a teenager.Sheila Weekes, president, and Sandra Will, co­services officer, saidthe group used to sew for WWII soldiers in the room above theSears store at the corner of Brock and Toronto streets.

Community spotlight: The IODE

By Carly FosterManaging EditorMake the lead up to Earth Day on April 22 extra educational this yearwith a month of environmentally friendly tips and activities for yourkids.The simplest but most powerful way to show the impact of nature is growingseeds. Try this cute and quick eggshell planter and watch the green – anddelight! – grow:www.crafts.kaboose.com/egghead.htmlLearn about Uxbridge's history with a tour of the Uxbridge Historical Centre at7239 Conc. 6 www.uxbridgehistoricalcentre.comInstead of running the water each time you wash up – which is a lot withchildren – fill the sink with water and use it to get wet and rinseDedicate one hour a day to read books instead of watching TV or playing videogamesFind a local farm or country store, and learn about where our food really comesfrom (it's not the grocery store!) with the Durham Farm Fresh website atwww.durhamfarmfresh.caThe snow is gone: See what was hidden all winter long! Collect old leaves,twigs, pine cones and more and make a spring wreath for the front doorCalculate your carbon footprint with the World Wildlife Fund's calculator. Howmany planets will it take to support yours? www.footprint.wwf.org.ukWhat better way to instill a love for the environment at an early age than to getout and see it. Take a walk on one of Uxbridge's beautiful trail system to see thebuds grow, birds chirp, and world come alive this springwww.town.uxbridge.on.ca/canada_trail_capitalSOURCES: www.earthday.org, www.planetpals.com, www.ec.gc.ca

18

This was one of my favourite and often­requested meals when my momasked what I wanted for dinner. What I love about food and meals in general,especially now that mom my is gone, is that the scent while cooking waftingthrough the house reminds me of her and the family life we had growing up. Wealways ate dinner as a family, and it was a time to chat, reconnect and share ourdays with each other.I suggest doubling or tripling the recipe and freezing some for another night.Sit down with your family this month and enjoy the meal and each other.

Chicken CacciatoreServes 4­62 lbs. of boneless, skinless chickenbreasts, cubed2 tsp. flour2 tbsp. oil1 10 ounce can of condensed tomatosoup3/4 cup of dry red wine (optional)1 medium onion, sliced1/2 tsp. each of basil, oregano, salt2 gloves garlic, minced1 bay leaf1 green pepper, sliced1 cup mushrooms, slicedDirectionsWash chicken. Coat chicken with flour. In a large deep frying pan brown chickenin oil. Add remaining ingredients, except peppers and mushrooms. Stir well andsimmer for 10 minutes. Transfer into a large pan and add green peppers,mushrooms and cook on low for 30 minutes. Remove bay leaf.Serve over noodles.