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by Pat Asling
Who was it wanted snow? The funny thing is, nothing has been reported about what ski resorts think about all this. Usually, we hear nothing but complaints. Maybe their complaint this time is that the roads are impassible and customers can't get there? It is certainly a change from the winter weather we have been used to, but I recall very well back in the Forties when the snow was up to the rooves of sheds, we walked or skied to school and, occasionally, were driven to school behind a team of horses and a sleigh, picking up kids along the way- and early school bus! The bigger boys would climb to the tops of the road banks and tempt fate by touching the hydro or telephone wires! No snow days in those days!
Certainly, the snow this weekend put a stop to many activities, including restaurants and store closings, church services, etc. The one thing I really wanted to go to on Friday night was the concert at St. Paul's Anglican about the silent film days in Uxbridge. I got ready and drove part way out the drive, then turned around, noting the amount of snow falling and drifting. I gather it continued as planned, but I do hope there can be a repeat performance for all those, like me, who didn't want to brave a snowy night drive! I was particularly interested as Allan McGillivray, who had been contacted for his historical insights, messaged me as to what I might know about a relative involved in providing music or some other connection. I am not sure where this came from but I found nothing in my research about that, unfortunately!
As I write this, about 8 p.m., the snow seems to have let up and hopefully many of the planned activities for Family Day will be available. One of those events should be on all residents minds is the All Candidates meeting, 7 p.m. at the Uxbridge arena. There should be at least three candidates there, for this very unnecessary election on top of what is going on down south, should make for interesting conversation and information!
Late last week was the full snow moon. As has happened almost every month, clouds obscured the view, but I managed to catch a glimpse between clouds early one morning. Certainly, she earned her name this time around! As for many of the other special celestial events, they, too, got blocked out by the clouds. One thing is for sure: they will continue their journey whether or not we see them.
We hope the stars align for all those who had birthdays or other special celebrations this past week. Best wishes to my young friend Marcie Clark. I am sure Brad and her lovely young daughters made it a special day. Double birthday wishes go out to brothers Paul and David Risebrough born same date but several years apart. I don't know how Dorothy managed that. I know one other set of brothers born on the same day but they were only a year apart and on April 1st! Best wishes also to long-time friend Doris Brandon Stewart. Doris assisted me in my first dental office, and I was often treated to lunch at her parent's house. Doris is now a proud great-grandmother! Best wishes also went out to my one and only sister-in-law, Joan Asling Clarke. She had her big party last year. Jackie Leppard also had a birthday and I hope her guys treated her well. Jackie has two beautiful dogs which I just love to see in her posts!
On Sunday, February 9th, St. Andrew's Presbyterian hosted a special guest in the person of David Morley. I believe David was speaking about Doctors Without Borders. He has been involved in international development for many years. He has an Order of Canada, two honorary Doctor of Law degrees and has worked with UNICEF, save the Children and others. I am sure it was a very enlightening presentation.
Our sympathies go out to the family of Michael Smalley, closer to Mount Albert. Michael and their family, for three generations, have grown potatoes, which supplied many families in the area, as well as organizations where french fries were on order. At the young age of 54, he is survived by his wife Kelly, his mother, three children and a sister. On Wednesday this week is the funeral of Bob Meek, also third third-generation farmer.
Community Care people enjoyed an abundant and tasty lunch at Douglas Crossing last Tuesday. March 4th we gather at the Villa in Port Perry. On February 21st, at the Historic Leaskdale Church, there will be a concert of Chamber Music at 7:30 p.m. Admission by donation. The next Jazz concert will be on March 7th. The Zephyr Scott Lions cancelled their spaghetti supper but will hold it again on March 4th. On March 5th, they will be having a St. Patrick's dance from 8 to 1 p.m.; tickets are $10. Email for tickets. Heather Moore is very happy to proclaim all 200 tickets for Yuk Yuks on March 1st are sold. Quite an achievement, I would think.
With all this snow and cold weather, it's nice to think of flowers. The Rotary Club are selling non GMO seeds until February 28th. Go to their website. For every 10 packs of seeds sold, "Make it Sow" will plant a tree in Canada and provide a certificate. The Genealogy Group meet at the Uxbridge Public Library on February 20th. Zoom is also available for members. North Durham Nature will meet at the Uxbridge Seniors Centre on February 25th at 7 p.m. The topic will be what is happening to our songbirds!
Church was cancelled this past Sunday, as it was for many. Next Sunday we are looking forward to having Rev. William Fritz with us once more. He never fails to impress. We are reminded we just celebrated National Flag Day and 60 years for the maple leaf! A few years ago, it took some buffeting, but now, with the threats of Trump hanging over Canada, there has been renewed pride in not only the flag but many of the other attributes of our Canada. Let's hope this pride not only remains but grows because I am sorry to say, far too many take the life they lead in Canada for granted, with little but complaints. We have much to be proud of (and, of course, a lot we shouldn't be proud of), which far outshadows any negatives. Don't forget to vote! That is a privilege many don't have!
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