Zephyr & Sandford News

by Pat Asling

The big news this week would have to be the amount of snow our area received over the past weekend. Yes, we have had some snow before, but this dump hit hard and fast for those hoping for Indian summer and a few more days to finish up outdoor work. Saturday morning was a winter wonderland to look at and photograph with snow like thick icing on all the fir trees and everything else capable of holding it. The birds were in a panic, fluttering around trying to get at their feed without getting buried in snow! And then reality set in. At least 2’ on the level and deeper, where it had drifted some. I needed my cane to help me walk around and clear the feeders, with snow up to my knees. Later, my son and his friend got a snowblower working, which should help a lot in the weeks to come. Then there is the snow sliding off the roof! Right now, at the back, there is a lot hanging at least 4’ over the eaves and should be dropped by morning, especially if it doesn’t get too much colder. It will be interesting to see, and shovel!

Other than that, it was quite a nice autumn week with some sun and not too cold. I did manage to get a couple of chores done, but that’s probably it.

On Friday morning, Santa arrived on schedule at Sandford Hall to join in the pancakes and sausages, and everyone enjoyed some dances by the SKR dance group. Some vendors were also in attendance! Due to Friday's snow dump, attendance was a bit lower than usual, but organizers were pleased with the turnout. Next week, on December 6th, Santa will rein in his reindeer at Zephyr Hall for more good food and picture taking from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Admission is by donation. Also at Zephyr, the Scott Zephyr Lion Club will be hosting their final spaghetti supper of the year on December 17th, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children. You will not go away hungry. Donations of eyeglasses, milk bags, pop tabs, and winter coats for kids are always needed and welcomed.

On December 6th and 7th, at Tindalls, there will be another Christmas market from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., so if you didn’t find what you wanted last week, here’s another chance.

Christmas is always a time for lots of music, and it's certainly the case in Uxbridge, where we have a number of excellent choirs all presenting concerts in the next few weeks. There is One Voice, having been around a long time, Monday Morning Singers, also long timers but a different style of music, and the newer group formed by Jennifer Neveu Campsall called Northern Trails, again a different style of music. Of course, both high schools are having concerts and probably some of the primary schools as well. Beginning December 6th, the Fantasy of Lights runs every evening through January 3rd. This has been growing and improving every year, so don’t miss taking a trip around Centennial Park after dark. Another anticipated activity is the Living Nativity, put on by the Baptist Church every second year. This year, there will be performances on December 19th to 21st, with two performances, at 7:30 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. See the real meaning of Christmas!

On December 9th, Community Care members will enjoy a Christmas lunch at Douglas Crossing (at least if COVID doesn’t interfere) and on the 10th, members and friends of the Horticultural Society will enjoy a potluck supper! December 11th is the Christmas party for members of the Genealogy group who will meet at the library downstairs. On the 16th, members of the Seniors group will enjoy another great lunch, this time served by our Karyn Tindall and helpers! Four meals out, actually five for some of us, as the sorority girls will meet and eat on Monday, the eighth.

Not many celebrations this week, but I can’t miss Barb Pratt, who celebrated a birthday. Barb is always busy doing community work. The Lucy Maud Montgomery Society is only one of her major volunteering efforts. Thanks for all you do and have done! Ron Herrema is also a birthday boy. I knew Ron since he was knee high. He is still working hard but enjoying his children and grandchildren. Hard to believe it is 30 years since his dad, Gary, who did so much for the township and Region, passed away. His mom, Helen, was just a couple of months ago.

Remember, the local Salvation Army will be setting up tables soon for the annual collection. Bev Northeast handles all the setting up and getting volunteers. Usually, there are tables at Zehrs and the Liquor Store, but I know she was having a hard time finding volunteers to man the tables. When you see us, please donate, however small the amount. The need is great.

Sadly, on this first Sunday of Advent, because of the snow accumulation and blowing and falling, etc, we cancelled the service. I was particularly sad because Carol O’Neil was to be leading and I particularly enjoyed her services. With the long-range forecast I have been hearing, that may happen more than once in the next several months. Next week, Rev. Li is to conduct Communion. All are welcome, 10 a.m. The tree is up and decorated, all it needs now are some warm mitts, socks or toques, which will be passed on to one of our local charities!