Zephyr & Sandford news

by Pat Asling

Well, what a week! I had just finished writing last week's news when my hydro went off, so I couldn't even make corrections and had to go elsewhere to send it Monday morning. My hydro went off because a huge pine tree fell on the line from the road to the house, so it was Friday morning before it was restored. A week has passed, and we know many folks are still suffering without the essential power we take for granted! Hopefully, that is the last gasp of winter. A huge vote of thanks has to go out to all those hydro workers who have been toiling nonstop since last Sunday and will continue. Of course, there are also weeks and months of cleanup on properties, roads, buildings, etc.

Amid the turmoil, many birthdays were celebrated, including the energizer bunny who goes by the name of Gloria Eng, who seems to be all over the place keeping busy with so many activities, work and play. Greetings to Marianne Prince also involved in several activities. Special birthday to Jill Tindall, daughter of Ryan and Karyn, who hit sweet 16 and is a big help to mom and dad on the farm and at the market. Also reaching this landmark is Adeline Clark, one of the lovely daughters of Hugh and Marcie, who is also a great help to her parents running the farm! At the other end of the spectrum, I am told Floyd Morton will be 87 on the 10th. Floyd is probably the only one around now who knows how to run the printing machines up at the Uxbridge Scott Museum. I hope there are some younger ones who have taken lessons on how these special machines work. Congratulations also go out to Katie and Phil Bottomley on the birth of their third child, Freddie. Another grandchild for Phil and Jennifer Wilson. Katie was born and raised in Sandford and is also quite involved in Jennifer Neveu-Campsall's new choir, Northern Trails Vocal Connections!

On Thursday last week I was pleased and honoured to speak to the ladies of Trinity United Church about my 18 years living and working in Jamaica and Belize. It hardly seems possible it is almost 18 years since I returned from that life! The ladies presented me with a beautiful bouquet of tulips, so lovely to see at this particular time.

Friday afternoon a large number of folks gathered at Sandford United Church to celebrate the life of Dorothy Baker. Son Brad led off with a beautiful tribute to his mom, followed by his sister Susan, then most of the grandchildren and even small great-granddaughters, one of whom played a piano selection. It was a moving tribute to a beautiful lady. Rev. Li conducted the service with Ruth Baker at the piano.

Friday night, the final jazz concert of the Spring was held at the historic Leaskdale church. As usual Tom Baker was front and centre with Ernie Mee on Bass, along with the anticipated performance by Amy Peck, the impeccable, on the saxophone. She makes that instrument sing and has so much fun doing it. It is expected they will return to please everyone once more in the Autumn. Meanwhile, on April 25th, the Chamber Group will be in attendance with a different type of music. The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. with donations at the door. There will be another session in May. Also, in May, the "Friday Night at the Foster" concerts also resume. On May 2nd, a favourite group, "Django Djunkies", will be performing, featuring gypsy swing, 1920 Jazz etc. The following week Scott Benson and Susan, with flute and guitar, will return. Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m., with admission being donated at the door. We have been promised the seventh will be open for Foster people even though work is commencing on the highway shortly. We urgently need volunteers for "Friends of the Foster" to help at these events. Please call Bev Northeast if you can help. The Scott Zephyr Lions Club reports their corn hole league was quite successful. More events to come!

The Uxbridge Horticultural Group met on April 9th for their season's first meeting. Guest speaker is Guinevere Kern, who spoke about "Exploration of Health, Healing Gardens and Therapy." Meetings begin at 7:30 p.m. Adult membership is $20. Family and youth memberships are available. On Monday, April 14th, there will be an All Candidates meeting at the arena hall, starting at 7 p.m. at the Uxbridge Arena Community Centre. Hopefully, all will be there, both those running and those voting as we are in a new riding with new candidates.

On the 15th, members of the Uxbridge Seniors meet for another great meal and don't forget; you are to wear an Easter Bonnet! The Genealogy group will meet on Thursday, April 17th, at the Uxbridge library or via Zoom for members, starting at 7 p.m. The presenter is Linda Corupe, and the subject is "Paying Dearly for Free Land." All are welcome! On April 22nd, the North Durham Nature Club will meet at the Uxbridge Seniors Centre., at 7 p.m. The presenter for the evening is John Sabean, a well-known naturalist from the area. John will be speaking on "The History of Upper Canada's Early Naturalist, Charles Fothergill." This will be of interest to both historians and naturalists, I am sure. All are welcome!

Church this week was led by Rev Li. Ruth Baker was at piano with granddaughter Emma on her violin. Such talented young ladies! The scripture detailed the death and resurrection of Lazarus and she read a modern version of the story and its meaning, so close to the death of Christ himself. Next week our own Adele Boy will lead the worship service, which is Palm Sunday. This always reminds me of walking in stations of the cross procession on Palm Sunday in Belize and pouring water on Pilot's hands! On the 18th, there will be a Good Friday service at Sandford United Church at 11 a.m. On May 4th, the decommissioning service for Zephyr United Church will be held at 11 a.m. This will be a very sad day for many whose roots grew in this congregation.