Zephyr & Sandford News

by Pat Asling

Wow, what a SUN day. As I write this, the thermometer is reading at 37C, maybe another record. I hope no one is lying in the sun, especially on a beach near water, unless they are looking to be crispy. There is a nice breeze, which could be deceptive.

As much as most of us are not happy with the USA just now, it is heartbreaking to hear about the flood in Texas, where so many little girls from a camp have been swept away, and bodies have been found miles from where they might have been originally, so far, many are unidentified. Several families have already lost more than one small daughter, and the numbers will just keep rising.

Our thoughts and prayers must be with those families because, so far, there has been nothing from governments. So very sad. Sadder because this was not the first time this type of event has happened, but hopefully it will be the last.

Birthday parties keep happening, and Saturday, the Epsom girls celebrated the 80th for Pat Bailey and the 74th for Trudy (Brawn) Empringham under a big shady tree on Pat's lawn. It's always great to spend time together. More birthdays to come. Birthday greetings also to the youngest of Stan and Amy Smalley's family, Rachel. Best wishes and continued success. Many older people will remember Gary LeDrew, who lived in Uxbridge for many years with his parents, Harold and Celia, both artists. Gary is 83, often plagued with one illness or another, lives in Nova Scotia, but could claim the world as his home; he has such a checkered past. Gary is also an artist and does some beautiful work. I hope he writes a book because some of his exploits are almost unbelievable. Best wishes go out also to Gayle and Ron Cordingly, who, each year, somehow manage to have birthdays at the same time. That's one way to save money: just have one big party. Best wishes to all these fine people. More to come as July hurries along.

A big congratulations to Scott Millar, son of Debby Jennings Wilson, who married Chealsey at Trenton on Saturday. A perfect day for a beautiful wedding, which Debby and her husband Steve Wilson attended. Scott and Chealsey met while going to the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT). Best wishes for a happy life. A big congratulations go out to Nancy Emo, who was another winner of the Senior Achievement Award for, among other things, being a dedicated volunteer since 2010 to the Uxbridge Hospital Auxiliary, including being a Past President. Thanks to all these citizens who work hard for the township and its people.

The Old Fashion Picnic at the museum was a success thanks to the organizing skills of Pam Beach. There seemed to be some unique ways discovered to eat pies. This was organized by the Uxbridge Scott Historical Society, and I believe that Bob Kirvan had a hand in it, too. Of course, under his guidance, the Horseshoe Pitching continues every Tuesday evening, 6 p.m., both men and women welcome, first game free. Also coming up on September 18th is a talk about Winnie the Pooh, and on October 16th, artist/musician Walter Campbell will be the guest speaker/ performer. The museum staff have also organized a number of events throughout the summer for both kids and adults. Leaskdale Loop Day is coming again on July 12th. There are 15 places to visit, so find a map and see what they have to offer. July 11th, at the Foster David Donor, on guitar, will be the guest presenter. Like most, he is a returning musician. I have been told that some of our musicians complain about a muffled or echoing sound. Know why that is? Because they use all that equipment and have it turned way up, so they block out their own voice. Turn it down, boys, it's not necessary in the Foster. The Uxbridge Horticultural Group meets at the Senior Centre, 7 p.m. (earlier if displaying). The guest speaker is Craig Virgin, a certified arborist/tree assessor. I am sure too many of us have had to call in an arborist in the last few months, especially after the ice storm of a few weeks ago. North Durham Nature will not have meetings, but there are a number of hikes to enjoy. You will find them listed on the web page, and contact info, etc. The Zephyr Scott Lions club has no immediate activities, but on July 26th, they will hold their summer market at the Zephyr Hall, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Contact them if you would like a booth. Also on July 16th, the Lucy Maud Montgomery Society will host their first tea with musician Art Lajamba demonstrating musical nostalgia. Call to reserve a ticket, which is $35 this year.

Rev. Li conducted the service this morning. Next week, we welcome our own Adele Boy as worship leader. The following Sunday, we will celebrate communion. An interesting series of Sunday evening services beginsservices begins at the Glen Major Pioneer Church throughout July and August. Service begins at 7 p.m. All welcome.