Managing Editor: Carly FosterArt Director: Kirsty KernohanEditorial Assistant: Shelby Stokes

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

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

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Copyright Sweet World Media ­ 2009.

From The Publishers

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The holidays for us have always been about traditions and family.We close our eyes and think of crackling fires, opening one present on Christmas Eve,Santa leaving stuffed stockings at the foot of beds, chocolate before breakfast and sourcream coffee cake on Christmas Day. And every night filled with family and laughter.These Christmases are especially exciting for us, as our children are right at the ageswhere they understand what is happening. It’s so special to see the wonder and magic ofthe season reflected in their eyes – it’s like Christmas is exciting and new all over again.We hope you enjoy some of our readers’ holiday rituals inside and on our website fromthe Holiday Traditions Contest last month. We loved reading about famous fruitcake, ethnicmeals, and Christmas tree cutting adventures. We’re sure you’ll take pleasure in readingthe winner’s 44­year­long Christmas Eve skating tradition with her family.Family comes in many forms, one of which is the Uxbridge Cottage Hospital Auxiliary.In their distinctive royal blue smocks, these hard­working volunteers have raised millionsfor our hospital the past 50 years, and look out for one another along the way. Read on toget a behind­the­scenes look at this indispensable organization.Please also do not forget that Uxbridge has many families who need help at Christmasand all through the year. Uxbridge Town Talk has adopted a family of six – please help usmake this a special time of year for them.As you start your holiday shopping, remember that Uxbridge’s businesses have bighearts and support your local schools, charities and causes through the year. Many havefree events, treats and special sales for you this month. Did you know that spending just$50 at three homegrown stores can keep our town viable? See our Town Talk Tidbits formore details. Shop local this Christmas!We tested out the new Thai restaurant this month, have a great profile of an Uxbridgetree farmer, and our favourite locally­sourced products for the holidays.Enjoy!Merry Christmas from our family to yours.

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Help us help a familyUxbridge Town Talk has adopted a local family of sixthis holiday season, including four children. We havebeen asked to provide warm clothing such as hats,mitts, undershirts, hoodies and pajamas. We’re alsocompiling a food hamper for Christmas, including meat,canned veggies, bread and more. We would love anydonations from businesses or readers to help make thisfamily’s Christmas special. Contact us atinfo@uxbridgetowntalk.com or 647­476­3056.To adopt a family yourself, please contact BevNortheast at the Salvation Army at 905­852­0090 oremail bnortheast@powergate.ca

UxbridgeChristmasToy DriveDrop off a new,unwrapped toy thatwill bring a smile tothe face of a childin Uxbridge. Pleasedo not forget giftsfor teens! Binslocated at CanadianTire, Bruins games,Zehrs andMcDonalds. Toyscollected until noonon Christmas Eve.

Grocery bills for charityWant a quick and easy way to help our public libraryand hospital? Save your Zehrs bills! For every $450,they receive a $1 donation.

Freecycle this holiday seasonJoin 600 residents on the non­profit Uxbridge Freecycle Network to keep good stuff out of landfills.Post things you want to get rid of, and watch for neat items to acquire. Perfect for the holidayseason’s mantra of one new thing in, one old thing out.http://groups.yahoo.com/group/uxbridgefreecycle/

What three, independently owned businesses in Uxbridge would you miss if they disappeared? Your purchases are what keeps them around.Pick 3. Spend $50. Save your local economy.www.the350project.net

By Carly FosterOn a crisp Tuesday morning in November, thesun is just starting to peek over the top of the backof 20 Bascom St., casting a shadow on the dozensof people anxiously waiting for Chances Are toopen.This is the regular scene the second day of theweek, the day after the volunteers of the UxbridgeHospital Auxiliary close the beloved “nearly new”store to sort and price donated items. When thedoors finally open at 10 a.m., the patient group ofshoppers turns into ardent bargain hunters. Thereis an air of excitement inside as people exclaimover a glass pedestal cake stand ($4), antiquemirror ($2) and plastic children’s tea set (25cents)."It meets the needs of people in town who needaffordable clothing and items,” says Shirley Vance,the organization’s vice president. “But also forthose who don’t – it’s amazing what you can find.”Last year the store made more than $100,000selling gently used clothes, toys, giftware, kitchengoods and books. It’s a major source of funds forthis dedicated group of more than 250 volunteerswho raise money for the 20­bed MarkhamStouffville Hospital Uxbridge site on CampbellDrive.In their royal blue smocks, the auxiliary is one ofthe most recognized volunteer groups in town.In 1954, a group of nurses living in Uxbridgeformed the organization with the goal of building acommunity hospital. On January 12, 1959 – afteryears of fundraising and financial support fromother community groups – the doors of the Cottage

Hospital opened.To date, the auxiliary has donated more than$2.2 million to the hospital and Uxbridge CottageHospital Foundation, which each year provides theAuxiliary with a wish list. These funds havepurchased two mammography machines, sixhospital beds at $10,000 each, new computersystems, furniture and more over the past 50years. This year, the auxiliary is raising funds for adigital bone density machine.

"You have to keep replacing hospital equipment,”Vance says. “It’s like computers – things getoutdated quickly.”The hospital foundation is exceptionally gratefulfor the auxiliary’s hard work.“The time, effort and dedication put forth by itsmembers over the years has been outstanding, notto mention, the consistent financial supportprovided to the hospital,” says Jo­Anne Gray,executive director of the foundation. “The Auxiliaryare an amazing and talented group of fundraiserswho are greatly appreciated.”The group of more than 250 volunteers is like afamily. Members watch out for each other, and

volunteer meetings and shifts are social outings forthe membership of mostly retirees.“That hospital was built by the town, by thepeople,” says Vance. “A lot of the older people intown remember and respect that.“There’s a real sense of community pride, of,‘Hey, we have a hospital in our small town.’ And wewant to be able to keep that hospital,” she adds.“That’s what our main goal is. To keep our hospitalwith the best equipment we can possibly have.”As well as the Chances Are store, volunteershelp at the hospital itself with in­patient servicesuch as wheeling people to their cars, giving foodin recovery rooms, and taking care of patients’clothes during procedures. The hospital gift shop isstaffed by auxiliary members, and each year a halfmarathon in town requires many volunteers toorganize.Vance is quick to point out the auxiliary is notjust made up of women, either. Men “providestrong backs and the mechanical and carpentryskills that some projects require,” the auxiliarybrochure says. Vance adds they are alwaysneeded, especially at Chances Are where lifting bigbags of clothes out of bins and around the store isdifficult.“Over a period of a year, volunteers put inapproximately 20,000 hours, and nobody in theauxiliary gets paid,” she says. “That does notinclude the people who do baking, knitting athome, either.”To find out more about the Uxbridge CottageHospital Foundation, or to volunteer or make adonation, call 905­852­9771 ext. 5237.

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L­R: Auxiliary members Judy Hackett, Betty Chapman and Shirley Vanceshow off some of the wares at the 'Tis the Season Christmas Store, proceeds of which supportour local hospital. The store is located at 20 Bascom St.

The lightweight, snow sleighscoop from Canadiancompany ERA moves thewhite stuff quickly andefficiently, especially with its28” wide edge. It’s not ashard on your back as atraditional snow shovel,although maneuvering upsnow banks can beentertaining.$29.97 at Wal­Mart

Guaranteed to be a crowd­pleaser– and help make that family dinnera little more, ahem, tolerable – thisfull­bodied red has intense plumand wild cherry flavours. Notes oftoasted oak provide a lingeringfinish.$14.95 at the LCBO

Almost effortless snow removal

Warm and spicy and frothy, oh my!

Gorgeous greensAdd some fresh pine scent and atouch of drama to your outdoorentrance with greenery. Everytaste can be satisfied withdesigns that are traditional,whimsical and modern. Stop infor a hostess gift or ornament forthat hard­to­buy­for person onyour list.$6.99­$119 at Garden Artifacts

Turn a new toy into an old friendA quirky Blabla doll issure to become acherished lovey for aspecial child.Handcrafted fromnatural Peruvian fibres,the line is irresistiblysoft and cuddly. We lovethe simple yetcontemporary style thatstill manages to invokethe past.$44.99 at LittleAcorn

There’s nothing more soothing and relaxingthan a cup of steaming, fragrant chai latte.With hints of cardamom and other spices, thisfrothy drink is comforting and energizing all atonce – a great pick­me­up for those longshopping excursions on Brock Street.$3.76 at the Tin Cup

sweet memoriesRemember Pink Elephant Popcorn? Dots?Popeye Candy Sticks? Check out thisamazing hidden treasure of vintage candy,Pez dispensers, chocolates, jelly beansand more. What kid or child at heartwouldn’t love some of these goodies fromSanta?5 cents­$25 at Sugar FX

Stuff their stockings with

These stylish gourmet market totes can be usedas a gift, reusable shopping, lunch or book bag,and are sold in a coordinating package of three.The elastic band inside helps keep bottlesupright and the interior is three times the size ofplastic shopping bags. Who knew eco­friendlycould be so beautiful?$42 at Strawberry Threads.

Bagalicious

By Carly FosterWho: Harold SmalleyWhat: Smalley’s Christmas Trees. Cut your own, and some pre­cut availableWhere: 7201 Regional Road 30, at the corner of Vivian Rd & Regional Rd 30By the numbers: 100 acres, with 35,000 trees total, in various stages of growth, planted on 60acres. Any size or type is $25, with baling (which condenses tree down to a 2 ft. diameter fortransporting) $5. Ten seasonal employees and five tractors/wagons keep the business goingAvailable: Scotch Pine, White Spruce, and a Balsam/Fraser Fir cross called Canaan. Free coffeeand hot chocolate, bonfire to warm up, wagon rides and use of saws to cut down tree. Chiptruck on site. Open weekends, December 5­20, from 9 a.m­5 p.m.Why trees: The back 60 acres was very hilly and unworkable, and someone gave us the brightidea to plant trees. We put in 55,000 seedlings in 1980, and sold our first tree in 1990. We’vebeen open every Christmas season since, and are now growing/selling the second generation oftreesWhat’s your favourite part of the job?: It’s really nice to see the families, who make a tripout of it because of the wagon rides, hot chocolate, fire etc.Biggest challenge: The weather. When you plant seedlings, if it’s too dry, they die off. Weusually plant 4,000­5,000 each spring, and they grow 6­8 inches each year. Unless there’s a bitof snow on the ground, people just don’t get into the spirit, so we pray for snow!Family: Has a son, 8Business background: In the off season, I am a beef cattle farmerWhat’s next?: After several health issues the past few years, Harold has a simple mantra: Justlive one day at a timeFor more information: Call Harold at 905­473­9229, or visit www.smalleyschristmastrees.com

Welcome to the business of…

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Tuesday, December 1Page Turners Reading Club2:15­3:30 p.m.We will be reading two books this month: Homefrom the Vinyl Cafe by Stuart McLean andFriends, Lovers and Chocolate by AlexanderMcCall­Smith. Everyone welcome. Refreshmentsprovided.Zephyr Library 905­473­2375 www.uxlib.comEntertaining Italian Style7­9 p.m.Maria Marotta is back with a brand new recipe.Join her for a hot Italian menu full of flavour thatwill make your taste buds buzz. Menu includesfennel salad with candied mixed nuts and pears,penne al forno, halibut with lemon capers sauceand espresso crème caramel. $30Community Room @ Zehrs 905­852­5009Wednesday, December 2Festival of Lights6:30 p.m.Enjoy complimentary cookies and hot chocolate,and a festive fireworks display as we light thehospital Christmas tree. Free.Uxbridge Hospital, Campbell Drive 905­852­9771ext. 5286Thursday, December 3Uxbridge Parkinson's Support Group1­ 3 p.m.Caregivers, friends and family gather to shareinformation and experience. We can help eachother! $10/ year; guests are free.www.uxparkinsons.com 905­852­8894Santa Photos6­8 p.m.Santa will be in his hut on Brock Street besideCIBC to meet wee ones and have photos taken.www.uxbridgebusiness.com

A Little Princess – the MusicalUxbridge Music Hall. Tickets at Presents,Presents, PresentsFriday, December 4A Little Princess – the MusicalUxbridge Music Hall. Tickets at Presents,Presents, PresentsP.A. Day Programs10 a.m.­noonWho wants to make a Christmas present forsomeone special? Children in Grades 2­5 areinvited to join us in creating a unique clothbasket. $3 per child. Pre­registration necessary inthe Children's Department. Limit of 15 children.Uxbridge Library 905­852­9747 www.uxlib.comYuletide Madness5:30 p.m.Santa and Carollers will be roaming variousstores around Uxbridge to kick­off the holidayshopping season.Past & Presents Local Artisan Holiday Sale6­9 p.m.Unique ideas for your gift giving list, includinghand painted Christmas décor & gifts, jewellery &accessories, homemade chocolate, wall art,refreshments & more. Proceeds to the UxbridgeHistorical Society. $2.Uxbridge Historical Centre schoolhouse 905­852­5854A Merry Little Christmas7 p.m.Join us at Uxbridge Baptist Church for our secondannual A Merry Little Christmas event. This yearwe have award winning musical artist JacobMoon, the Welcome Christmas Orchestra and folkensemble Isobelle Gunn. Gourmet coffees anddesserts. Tickets $10 in advance, $15 at thedoor.uxbap@uxbridgebaptist.com or 905­852­3662

Poems, Carols of Christmas7:30 p.m.The Monday Morning singers directed by AnneMizen. Special guest Kenneth Welsh accompaniedby Dorothy Jovkovic. Tickets $15; children under12 free. Available at Blue Heron Books, Presents,Presents, Presents or at the door.St. Paul’s Anglican Church 905­852­7016Uxbridge Bruins7:45 p.m.Bruins v. Mojacks.Uxbridge Arena 905­852­6761www.uxbridgebruins.comSaturday, December 5A Little Princess – the MusicalUxbridge Music Hall. Tickets at Presents,Presents, PresentsPast & Presents Local Artisan Holiday Sale10 a.m.­4 p.m.See December 4 for detailsSanta Rides the Rails11 a.m.­ 1 p.m.Santa will be visiting each child at their seat withgoodies to distribute. Seating is limited and byreservation only. $18 per passenger or $60 forgroups of four.905­852­3696 tickets@ydhr.on.caZephyr Seniors Christmas Luncheon12 p.m.Annual Christmas luncheon held at Zephyrcommunity hall free of charge to all seniors. Weserve a delicious home­cooked turkey dinner anddesserts, offer beautiful music entertainment andgive away lots of great prizes. Donationswelcome.905­473­1649

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Sunday, December 6Free Public Skate10 a.m.­11:30 a.m.Zehrs gives back to the community. Donationsappreciated to support our local food bank.Uxbridge arena 905­852­1212Santa Rides the Rails11 a.m.­ 1 p.m.See December 5 for detailsChristmas Social GatheringNoonUxbridge Manor & Spa 905­852­6686networkinggroup@uxbridge.comVictorian Christmas Tea2 p.m.Dress in your Christmas finery for the PineridgeChorus’ Victorian Christmas Tea. Tea and sweets,songs and Christmas carols. Admission $10.Uxbridge Seniors Centre 905­473­2342Christmas Concert7:30 p.m.‘Tis The Season Christmas ConcertFeaturing the One Voice Choir and gifted localmusicians who all know how to usher in theChristmas season. Free Admission.Goodwood United Church 905­640­1781Monday, December 7Knock Out Hunger Night6 p.m.Join Okami Kai Karate and Aikido as they teamup with Body Fit for the annual Knock Out HungerNight. Kid fit cardio demo class, martial artsdemos, get your photo with Santa & more!Admission: non­perishable food for the Loavesand Fishes Food Bank.www.okamikai.com 905­852­1521Beginner knitting class7­9 p.m.Mondays. Presented by Friends of the UxbridgeLibrary. $10 for duration.Uxbridge Library 905­852­9747 www.uxlib.com

Tuesday, December 89 Simple Steps to a Healthier Family Diet10­11:30 a.m.Join Nicole Scott, a registered holistic nutritionist,as she shares simple steps for your family toachieve great health. Free. Kids welcome.Call 416­427­5080 for localeHoliday Cheer Open House1­4 p.m.Durham College, Uxbridge Campus hosts an openhouse to show our appreciation to thecommunity, members and businessrepresentatives. All welcome! Free.905­852­7848 TTD: 905­721­3187Thursday, December 10Strawberry Threads Christmas Open House6:30­9 p.m.Celebrate the holiday season with StrawberryThreads! Fun­filled evening guaranteed.Featuring Annie Robbins from Silpada jewelry andKristen Thornton of T Bag & Co. gourmet totebags. For the guys, spectacular sportsmemorabilia by PHG Sports. Fabulous liveentertainment from Uxbridge’s Lauren Malyon at7 p.m.www.strawberrythreads.ca 905­852­3683Friends of the Uxbridge Library7­8 p.m.Enhance and support the extension of theservices and resources of the library, and assistin raising community awareness. Membershipdues required.Uxbridge Library 905­852­9747 www.uxlib.comFriday, December 11Santa Photos6­8 p.m.Santa will be in his hut on Brock Street besideCIBC to meet wee ones and have photos taken.Sounds of the Season7:30 p.m.One Voice Uxbridge Singers and the UxbridgeYouth Choir. Tickets $15; children under 10 free.Available at Presents, Presents, St. Paul’sAnglican Church 905­852­7016

Uxbridge Bruins7:45 p.m.Bruins v. Merchants.Uxbridge Arena 905­852­6761www.uxbridgebruins.comSaturday, December 12Breakfast with Santa9 a.m­noonPancakes, crafts, and a visit with the jolly old elf.Zephyr Community Centre 905­473­9401Santa Rides the Rails11 a.m.­ 1 p.m.See December 5 for detailsUxbridge Arms Grand OpeningNoon­1 a.m.Enjoy food and entertainment as we officiallyopen our doors.905­852­1003Santa and Treats1­3 p.m.Santa is coming to Pebbles & Posies downtown!Join us for hot chocolate, cookies and photos.Look for Santa's sleigh in front of the store.905­862­3490Holiday Floral Class2­4 p.m.Participants will enjoy a relaxing evening outwhile taking part in a step­by­step, hands­onexperience designing their own holidaycentrepieces. $40Community Room @ Zehrs 905­852­5009Sounds of the Season3:30 p.m.See December 11 for detailsVeterans Christmas Party6 p.m.Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905­852­5293

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Sunday, December 13White Gift and Children’s Pageant Service9:30 a.m.Goodwood United Church 905­640­1781Santa Rides the Rails11 a.m.­ 1 p.m.See December 5 for detailsA Christmas Carol3 p.m.Uxbridge Chamber Choir presents CBC's adaptationof Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Advancetickets $15, $20 at the door. Available at Blue HeronBooks and PharmaChoice Drug Store.Trinity United Church 905­852­4401www.uxbridgechamberchoir.caMonday, December 14Moms on a Mission for Better Nutrition10 a.m.­noonLooking for other moms to get together monthly todiscuss how we can impact the health of thechildren in our community. We will look at schoollunch programs, share fundraising ideas, and muchmore.For locale call 416­427­5080Tuesday, December 15Uxbridge Senior Citizen’s Club General Meeting1 p.m.Our annual Christmas tea! New Year’s Eve dancetickets available.Uxbridge Senior’s Centre 905­862­2144Gingerbread Houses6­8 p.m.We'll bring out the architect in your child as we walkthenm through a step­by­step tutorial of buildingtheir very own gingerbread house to take home justin time for Christmas.$20Community Room @ Zehrs 905­ 852­5009Business Improvement Area Monthly Meeting6:30 p.m.BIA monthly board meeting. Public welcome.Town Hall Scribes Room www.uxbridgebusiness.comWednesday, December 16Durham Farm and Family Resources Outreach9:30­11:30 a.m.Zephyr Hall 905­862­2750 ext 310www.durhamfamilyresources.org

Guest Speaker Nancy Cruickshank9­11 p.m.Are you ready for Christmas? Special guest speakerNancy Cruickshank talks about her strategy forenjoying Christmas. All women welcome for coffee,inspiration and good company.Living Water Community Church 905­852­2059Thursday, December 17Uxbridge Library Board Meeting6:30­9p.m.Uxbridge Library 905­852­9747 www.uxlib.comUxbridge Genealogy Group7­9 p.m.Founded by local genealogists to share a commoninterest and to assist those that are trying to tracetheir roots.Uxbridge Library 905­852­9747 www.uxgen.netHoliday Floral Class7­9 p.m.See December 12 for detailsLiving Nativity7:30 p.m. & 8:15 p.m.Experience the joy of the first Christmas at anoutdoor re­creation of the Christmas story,complete with narration, authentic costumes andlive animals.Centennial Park (behind the library) 905­852­3184Friday, December 18Blood Donor Clinic1­7:30p.m.Uxbridge Seniors Centre 705­872­1304Gingerbread Houses6­8 p.m.See December 15 for detailsWine, Cheese & Carols7­9 p.m.Join us for wine, cheese and Jane Loewen singingChristmas carols in the store. Free wrapping with adonation to Precious Minds. We’ll help you finishyour Christmas shopping – a book for everyone!Blue Heron Books 905­852­4282Community Yoga Class7:30­8:30 p.m.Join Balanced Life Yoga for an all­levels communityyoga class. Class is an $8 donation to theUxbridge/Scugog Animal Shelter.www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905­852­2782

Living Nativity7:30 p.m. & 8:15 p.m.See December 17 for detailsUxbridge Bruins7:45 p.m.Bruins v. Chiefs.Uxbridge Arena 905­852­6761www.uxbridgebruins.comSaturday, December 19Gingerbread HousesNoon­2 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.­ 4:30 p.m.See December 15 for detailsLiving Nativity7:30 p.m. & 8:15 p.m.See December 17 for detailsSunday, December 20Service of Lessons and Carols10:30 a.m.St. Paul's Anglican Church 905­852­7016Monday, December 21Beginner knitting class7­9 p.m.See December 7 for detailsLiving Nativity7:30 p.m. & 8:15 p.m.See December 17 for detailsWednesday, December 23Yoga with Shasta6­7:15 p.m.Join renowned and inspiring teacher Shasta for anall­levels flow yoga class designed to bring balanceto your mind, body and spirit. All welcome. $16www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905­852­2782Jam with Grainne RyanFrom Grainne’s website: A triple­decker musicalsandwich made with layers of rock, rop and countryon wholesome folk/roots bread.Harlow’s Wine Bar and Grille 905­852­5262harlowswinebarandgrille.com

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Thursday, December 24Skate with Santa2­4 p.m.Join Santa Claus on the ice for a free family event.Uxbridge Arena 905­852­6761Family Christmas Eucharist4:30 p.m.Carols by Candlelight10:30 p.m.The Mightnight Christmas EucharistSt. Paul's Anglican Church, 59 Toronto Street S.905­852­7016Christmas Eve Candlelight Service7 p.m.Uxbridge Baptist Church, 231 Brock St. W.905­852­3662Candlelight Service7 p.m.Uxbridge Free Methodist Church, 81 Reach St.905­852­3419Candlelight Christmas Eve Service7 p.m.Goodwood United Church, 3999 Front St.905­640­1781Christmas Eve Family Service with Carols7­8 p.m.A simple time of song & reflection. Everyonewelcome.Living Water Community Church, 141 Reach St.905­852­2059Christmas Eve Candlelight Service7:30 p.m.St. Andrew’s­Chalmers Presbyterian Church, 40BToronto St. S. 905­852­6262Thursday, December 31Mayor’s Levee New Year’s Eve5:15–7:15 p.m.Come skate with Mayor Bob ShepherdUxbridge Arena 905­852­6761New Year’s Eve PartyBuffet, music. $75/couple. Tickets at the Legion.8 p.m.Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905­852­5293New Years Dance8 p.m.Tickets must be purchased at the at the December15 Senior’s Club general meeting – they sell outfast!Uxbridge Senior’s Centre 905­862­2144

New Years Eve with Manky Boggin.This seasoned, diverse group collectively performsa repertoire of rock and R&B flavoured classics fromthe early 60's to the mid 70's, with a touch of mid80's Canadian rock thrown in for taste.Harlow’s Wine Bar and Grille 905­852­5262harlowswinebarandgrille.comRegular events‘Tis the Season Christmas StoreThis seasonal shop is run by the women in royalblue of the Uxbridge Cottage Hospital Auxiliary toraise funds for our community hospital. Holidaydecorations, giftware, wreaths, seasonal costumejewellery & more in every price range.9 a.m.­5 p.m. Monday­Saturday.20 Bascom St. above Chances Are 905­852­9771Santa Claus is coming to townDecember 5­6, 12­13, 19­20Noon­4 p.m.Santa is coming to town…and he’s bringing money!He’ll be at Uxbridge’s downtown and Hwy. 47 shopsthe three December weekends leading up toChristmas handing out envelopes to randomshoppers. These will contain BIA Bucks – good atparticipating businesses – or gift certificates fromstores. www.uxbridgebusiness.comFantasy of LightsDecember 17­24See Elgin Park like never before! Light displayssparkle in the night sky, as dozens of displays cometo life from local organizations. Brought to you bythe Uxbridge Optimist Club. Donations welcome tosupport youth initiatives. 905­852­9344Family Play to LearnMonday, 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 playtime and crafts. No fee.905­862­2750 ext. 310www.durhamfamilyresources.orgKarate7­9 p.m.Every Monday and Wednesday. Please call fordetails. Zephyr Hall 905­852­5792Phatcamp BootcampTuesdays 6 a.m., 5 p.m. Wednesday 6 a.m.Thursday 6 a.m., 5 p.m.UxPool Wendy 905­852­4774www.committofitness.net

Udora play group10 a.m.­noonFor moms and their kids ages 0­6. Come out andhave some fun with your little one. Repeats eachTuesday and Thursday at same time.Udora Community CentreWeekly Ladies Interdenominational CommunityBible Study1 p.m. Tuesdays at Uxbridge Baptist Church. Allages welcome.905­852­2846Indoor Walking Trail6­8 p.m.From the Township trails committee comes aweekly indoor walking trail at Uxbridge SecondarySchool. Children under 18 must be accompanied byan adult. No running, walking poles or strollers.$10 one­time fee (no charge if under 18). Tuesdaysuntil February 23, 2010.Sign up at Uxpool 905­852­7831Meditation7­9 p.m.Bring comfortable cushions. Admission by donation.Runs first and third Thursday each month.Siloam Hall 905­852­9975Bingo7:30 p.m.Great jackpots every Thursday.Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905­852­5293Mom and Baby Yoga Boot Camp10­11 a.m. Fridays.Regain strength and flexibility and bond with yourbaby in this enjoyable class.Balanced Life Yoga via Kelly 905­852­2782Euchre7:30 p.m.All are welcome for a fun evening of cards andprizes every Friday.Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 905­852­5293Santa’s Elves Wrapping GiftsSaturdays and Sundays from December 12 Santa'selves offer gift wrapping in the store in exchangefor a donation to Precious Minds.Blue Heron Books 905­852­4282STAND3­4 p.m.Come explore and respond to social injustice hereand around the world. Free every SaturdayUxbridge Youth Centrewww.uxbridgeyouthcentre.com 905­862­3456

Swimming, squash and skating

Family swimming @ UxpoolMonday, Wednesday, Friday 10:30­11:30 a.m.Friday 6:30­8:30 p.m.Tuesday, Thursday 1­2 p.m., 7:30­8:30 p.m.Saturday, Sunday 1­3 p.m.Public squash courtsMonday­Friday 7 a.m.­5 p.m.For lane swimming, aqua fit and class times, plus weekendsquash courts, call Uxpool 905­852­7831

Uxbridge Town Talk reserves the right to edit forspace. We are not responsible for errors oromissions. A submission does not guaranteeprinting in the magazine. We do publish everyevent in our online calendar atwww.uxbridgetowntalk.com/event­listings.Submit yours for FREE!!Email events to info@uxbridgetowntalk.com ormail to:Event listingP.O. Box 1035Uxbridge, ONL9P 1N3

Public skatingWednesday 7­7:50 p.m.Thursday 3:15­4:35 p.m.Sunday 1­1:50 p.m.Parent & tot skatingMonday and Thursday 10:30­11:50 a.m.Thursday 1­2:20 p.m.SPECIAL holiday skatingDecember 21­231­2:30 p.m.Free skate with SantaDecember 242­4 p.m.

As you gather with family and friends this holiday season,remember who the most important people are in life – yourloved ones.There’s no better way to protect them and you thanproper life insurance.This guarantees your family can look after any children,pay off household debt, make up for lost income, and coverthe funeral costs.Now is a good time to evaluate the needs of you andyour family.James~Campell Insurance Brokers works with over 20financially stable insurance partners to offer all types ofcoverage, including:·Auto·Property·Business·Recreational·Life

·Critical illness & disability·Employee benefits·Travel·InvestmentsThey are not a direct insurer or voice on the phone, butpride themselves on having a personable, knowledgeableand professional team right here in your community.They’ve served residents from their Uxbridge and Mt.Albert locations for more than 30 years, and are activelyinvolved in community activities such as the Fall Fair,sports teams and local charities.Next time you review your insurance needs or havequestions or concerns, please call or visit their interactivewebsite to request a quote, find after­hours claimsnumbers and more.For more infomation www.jamescampbellinsurance.com,33 Toronto St. N., 905­852­9191 or 1­888­354­6444.

12 Advertising Feature

Give your loved ones the gift of protection and securitythis Christmas

Where there is more in insurance thanjust a policy

The staff of James Campbell wishesyou all the best this holiday seasonDrop off unwrapped gifts in our officefor the Uxbridge Toy Drive

The real­life power of natural healingFive years ago, Kathy Brunksole was in the midstof chemotherapy for breast cancer. It was not goingwell.“Someone suggested I do an ion cleanse withreflexology,” she says. “I started to turn around injust six weeks. It took the toxicity out of my body,and Reiki helped me so much.”The powerful natural treatments so impacted andhealed Brunksole, the former corporate bookkeeperquit her job to learn the trade herself.She is now the proud owner of Renew BalanceNatural Healing. Brunksole is a certified reflexologist– someone who uses the power of massage on thefeet to improve health – and a Reiki Master. UsuiReiki is a simple but potent method of channelingenergy by the laying on of hands, providing deeprelaxation, stress relief and improvement of immuneand digestive issues.“I have always loved helping people and animalsand I have discovered that the body has an amazingability to heal itself,” Brunksole says.Renew Balance also offers ion cleanses to detoxify

organs, reduce swollen joints and the pain ofarthritis.With an amethyst bio mat treatment you receivefar infrared ­­ which heals core ­­ healing from theamethyst gem stone and negative ions from theheat.“The biggest challenge is spreading the wordabout natural healing, and how easy it is to helpourselves be healthy,” Brunksole says. “I lovehelping people feel better, stay healthy so cancer willnot attack them as it did me, and bring balance toanyone who wants to feel well.”Gift certificates available as a healthy holidaypresent.Renew Balance is located at 58 Brock. St. W.,suite 203, above Elemi Organics. To book anappointment in the office, or your home, call Kathyat 416­566­1040, 905­852­2412 or visitwww.renewbalance.ca for more information.

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Getting that much­needed Internet presence hasnever been more affordable with our custom websitesstarting at just $299. We design modern, distinctivesites that help you get noticed.Don’t know where to start when it comes to socialmedia? We can help you reach a whole new audienceon Facebook, Twitter and more.With an award­winning journalist and accomplishedgraphic/web designer on staff, our diverse backgroundshelp us to cover all your communication needs.For more information, visit our portfolio atwww.sweetworldmedia.com, emailinfo@sweetworldmedia.com, or call 905­862­3566.

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by Carly Foster & Kirsty KernohanThere is a peacefulness here thatis in sharp contrast to the flavourexplosion on our plate. HollowMalaysian wind chimes meet crispyginger beef. Golden Buddha meetsBangkok sweet and sour chicken.Bamboo blinds meet shrimp padThai.Thai Villa is a delicious and verywelcome, needed addition to therestaurant roster in Uxbridge. Afteryears of serving Uxbridge residentsat their Stouffville location, ownersWill and Cleo Cheung have broughttheir signature dishes to town – andwe could not be more excited.Let’s get one thing straight aboutThai food: It’s not spicy. It’sflavourful. It is packed withsensations our Canadian­ized meatand potatoes palates have rarelyencountered, but it will not “burnyour face off” as we overheard onepatron inquire of his dining mate.We started our lunch with fresh mango andguava juices, plus Jasmine green tea to calmand cleanse the mouth between courses. Nextcame Tom Yam soup (lemongrass, tomatoes,mushrooms) and Thai hot and sour soup (tofu,dark broth), and two crispy plump spring rolls(thin mixed veggies, glass noodles) with Thaiplum sauce.Soon followed three main dishes: Crispyginger beef (crunchy, sweet), Bangkok sweetand sour chicken (saucy and sweet with redpeppers), and shrimp pad Thai (glass noodles,sweet red sauce).Our entire meal was in front of us in 15minutes. This is high quality cuisine at fast foodprices (lunches are just $7.50­$9.99) andquickness. Lunches include soft drink, springroll and main course with rice. Selectionschange every two weeks.Our meal ended with homemade coconutsyrup drizzled over deep fried banana andvanilla ice cream. This was warm and cold,sweet and a tad salty – both of us may haverun our fingers through the melted leftovers

when no one was looking.While the food was delicious, thepresentation was just as appetizing. TheCheungs designed everything here themselves,and we most loved the bamboo­inspired brasscutlery and gorgeous wood­rattan chairs. Thesoft Thai music in the background sets thescene.The full dinner menu has almost 100 itemsto choose from, under appetizers, Thai salad,soup, curry dishes, house specials, noodles,rice plates and vegetarian.Takeout ordered after our lunch proved to beyummy, too. We do wish the pad Thai to gowas the same sauciness as in­house (perhapswe have to order extra sauce?) and the coconutrice had more creamy coconut flavour. Asparents with young children, we appreciate theavailable highchairs, but have requested theCheungs consider change tables in theirwashrooms.On our wish lists to try next: Deep friedwontons (wrapped with cream cheese andserved with sweet and sour sauce), Nyonyacurry (unique curry resulted from the Chinese

immigrants and local Malays in the MalayPeninsula and islands of Java) and coconutjuice sticky rice with mango.“Thai Cuisine is all about sharing with yourfamily,” Will Cheung says. “Never be afraid totry something new.”

makes a home in UxbridgeSweet, saucy, exotic and delicious: Thai Villa

From My Mom's Kitchen

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© William Berry | Dreamstime

Foster Family Aggression CookiesI used to love making these with my Mom and getting my hands all messy. It’s now afavourite and easy recipe to make with my 3.5­year­old.~CarlyMakes 4+ dozen cookies1.5 cups brown sugar, lightly packed1.5 cups margarine/butter3 cups quick cook oatmeal1.5 cups white flour1/2 tbs. baking sodaPreheat oven to 350Mix margarine/butter with brown sugar until fluffyMix dry ingredients in separate bowlCombine: mash, knead, squeeze with hands – get your aggression out! – until well mixedRoll into small ballsGently press with fork and sprinkle with sugar (white or coloured)Bake 10­12 minutes

Traditional ShortbreadI’m not much of a baker, but I used to love eating theseafter my sister and my Mom made them growing up!They are a special treat to make for my family.~KirstyMakes 2 dozen cookies1/2 cup corn starch1/2 cup of icing sugar1 cup all purpose flour3/4 cup butter, softenedPreheat oven to 350Sift together corn starch, icing sugar and flour withwooden spoonBlend in butter until soft, smooth dough formsShape into 1” ballsPlace 1 ½” apart on an ungreased cookie sheetFlatten with a lightly floured fork or roll out to ¼” thickand cut with cookie cuttersBake 15­20 minutes or until edges are lightly brownedCool, then decorate with coloured sprinkles, cherries ordrizzled chocolate

Family Traditions Contest: Skating Memories

My tradition started in 1965 when I was 8­years­old. My aunt and uncle started renting the arena on ChristmasEve., back when it was located where the current Senior’s Centre is on Marietta Street.We would go and skate for two hours, then go back to my aunt and uncle’s to eat a lot of goodies, sing Christmassongs and get a quick visit from a busy Santa.They did the skating party until 1980. Then my Mom and Dad took it over and kept the tradition going until mybrother and sister took the reins.To this day, we still rent the arena on Christmas Eve. We skate for two hours, and then go back to my nephew’s forthe goodies, visit the family and start the Christmas holidays in a nice way.When my children were young, we would let them open up one present on Christmas Eve – usually pajamas. Theyare grown up, but still want to open that one gift.Donna Kennedy (Adams), 52, of Uxbridge, wins a $50 gift card from Canadian TireTo see all our contest entries , visit www.uxbridgetowntalk.com