East Gwillimbury Shines

Winter Day at the Library and Holland Landing Community Centre

Once a hub where country western dancing nights, artisan fairs, Guide meetings, tennis camps, library icecream parties for kids, parent and baby story times, workshops, business networking, studying..and so much more, unfolded, the East Gwillimbury Public Library and Holland Landing Community Centre sits very quietly. Encouragingly, the EGPL offers an online Minecraft Meetup every second week for children. There is also a French and English conversation circle and a Book Walk and Talk. You can read about the activities here. Also, the tennis courts are opening up!

Here is our beautiful Library and Community Centre (and surrounding grounds) on one of the last days of winter, 2021. We enjoyed taking books out of the library. Among the picks: “Stick Dog Gets the Tacos” – sure to be a good read.

The East Gwillimbury Public Library – Holland Landing Branch and Community Centre is located at 19513 Yonge Street
Holland Landing, ON.

This Week in East Gwillimbury

It’s a busy week in East Gwillimbury. On Monday, Feb, 03 at 7:00 PM is a Book Club for Adults. Drop in. Free. The book being discussed is by Michael Crummey.
On Tuesday, Feb, 04 at 10:00 AM is Committee of the Whole Council Meeting for the Town. The Meeting occurs in Council Chambers and the public is encouraged to attend. At 1:30 PM at the Early On Child & Family Centre is holding a musically based program for 0 – 6 months and their parents. You can register at (905) 853-0754. Free.
On Wednesday, February 5 18:30 – 19:45 at Hillside Church, 1 Don Rose Blvd, Mount Albert, ON L0G 1M0, Canada (map) is a program for children ages 3 – Grade 6 and is full of exciting Bible lessons, fun game times, great times with friends old and new, and so much more. Register for this program by clicking here.

On Thursday, Feb, 06 at 1:30 PM is Tec h Thursday for Adults. Drop in. Free. At 6:00 PM is Igniting Ideas Ages: 7 +. You must register. Free. A time to explore and create! A program that explores Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. At 7:30 PM an exciting event is taking place. It’s the FRIENDS OF THE EAST GWILLIMBURY PUBLIC LIBRARY PRESENT: Anthony De Sa, a Toronto award-winning author.
On Friday, don’t miss Parent and Tot Skating 9:00Am to 9:50 am, East Gwillimbury Sports Complex, 914B Mount Albert Rd., East Gwillimbury ON, L0G 1E0.

Mayor and Council Pancake Breakfast & Family Skate: a Memorable Morning

Today’s Mayor and Council Pancake Breakfast & Family Skate drew many families and residents of East Gwillimbury. It was held in the morning at the EG Sports Complex. The pancakes were fluffy, the sausages were fun and the Town Crier and Mayor Virginia Hackson ushered in a new decade for the Town with a cheerful message. Town Councillors Scott Crone, Cathy Morton, Tara Roy-DiClemente, Joe Persechini, Loralea Carruthers and Terry Foster were all smiles as they dished out pancakes to residents. Police officers, helpful volunteers and Member of Parliament, York-Simcoe Scot Davidson joined the fun.

Councillors Tara Roy-DiClemente and Loralea Carruthers busy dishing out pancakes

Councillors Terry Foster, Scott Crone, Cathy Morton and Joe Persechini

Mayor Virginia Hackson giving a short speech

A Walk by the River

Few places are so untouched and so raw in beauty in the Greater Toronto Area as this nature hike down by the East Holland River. East Gwillimbury has many country spots to explore. What makes this hiking location exceptional is the river you walk beside, the open air, the mix of forest and open marsh, the well-constructed pathway, the beautiful benches, the lookouts….

gorgeous countryside in East Gwililmbury

Begin at the base of Yonge Street and Mount Albert Road, Holland Landing and take it from there! Here is how the trail looked on October 21, 2019:

We saw runners and joggers, two adorable baby pug dogs, friendly walkers, the water tower in the distance in the process of being repainted, caterpillars, changing leaves and sunshine.

Air Riderz Aurora: Fun for All Ages

Air Riderz in Aurora is billed as fun for all ages: “Our trampoline park is ALL AGES – there are NO age restrictions. Little ones unsteady on their feet and grandparents alike will have the time of their lives – and everyone in between!”

Indeed, the trampoline park does have something for everything – including teens, who are often at odds to know what to do around Town (when we were there we saw teens arriving for a glow-in-the-dark event).

At Air Riderz, 50 Don Hillock Drive Unit #1, Aurora, Ontario, there is:

-15,000 sq. ft. of wall-to-wall trampolines

-Cube Jumping

– Dodge Ball

-and a Foam Pit area among other exciting things to do.

Perhaps the most exciting thing to do is the rock climbing area – where you can certainly climb up high – surprisingly high!

More and more birthday parties are being held at Air Riderz. The facility also offers a lounge and corporate events. Air Riderz as a Canadian small business is thriving – there are several locations including this one in Aurora.

One guest on the site says, “We’ve been to Air Riderz for almost 5 parties this year. Love the energy and clearly the kids have a blast. Everybody wants to have their party here. Staff and management are super helpful. It’s fresh and different. High energy for sure. It’s not just for kids, but for the young at heart. Just get jumpin’ already!” – Mar’yam C.

Have You Been to Round the Bend Farm?

A pleasant day. Tons of pumpkins. Corn maze. Hay bales to climb. An adorable llama. Fresh farm vegetables to buy (the cherry tomatoes are the best… especially flavourful). Have you been to Round the Bend Farm in nearby Kettleby on Jane Street? Worth the trip!

On our Thanksgiving Monday visit, the children especially enjoyed feeding the animals with fresh kale. They also loved picking their own pumpkins to take home. Parents love the millions of “photo opps” – everything looks fun and outdoorsy here so it’s nice to capture the moment.

After School Visit to Valleyview Park

One day this week after school, we visited the brand-new Valleyview Park in Queensville (175 Walter English Dr, close to John Candy Drive).The park officially opened on July 17, 2019. Valleyview playground is a fair walk from most residences (at this point in time… until more house are built). Once there, the park is impressive! Very good play equipment, hammocks, a soccer field, and….zip-line! The kids had a pleasant afternoon with their friends! A beautiful fall day at its best – with gorgeous valley views….

Are You Ready for Fall?

**Fall in East Gwillimbury is just around the corner!! Are you ready?**

Canada Day in East Gwillimbury

Canada Day is always a very special day to celebrate in East Gwillimbury. We are fortunate to have activities at the beautiful historic site of the Sharon Temple and the Mount Albert Lions’ Park fireworks to enjoy!

Winter Fun in East Gwillimbury

So far, so good!

Winter in East Gwillimbury has been a lot of fun. From the Santa Claus Parade to the Mayor & Council Pancake Breakfast to Free Public Skates, tobogganing and some gorgeous wintry scenes….there is a lot to be enjoyed.

5 Reasons to Go to Tatlows Broiler Bar in East Gwillimbury

Tatlows Broiler Bar is a tiny restaurant in East Gwillimbury on Queensville Side Road. Here are five reasons why East Gwillimbury diners (and those from further afield in York Region) are flocking to Tatlows.

1.The Surprise Factor

Everyone loves a sleeper story. A hidden gem. So far hidden in the interior of the River Drive Park/ Holland Landing Area of East Gwillimbury, this restaurant is a bit of a “surprise.”

2.Friendliness

All the people who work at Tatlows Broiler Bar are really, really kind. Genuine. One waitress was out of breath as she had just rushed out to hand a customer an item they had left behind before they pulled out of the parking lot. One client was concerned that she would miss a business appointment. The server tried to reassure her. Another waitress pulled out all the stops talking to our kids, making them laugh. The servers who work at Tatlows want their customers to have a good experience.

3. the Food

The food is tasty. The hamburger had a “wowness” to it.

So did the flaming vegetable hash. Kids meals have Special Touches to them in the Presentation.

4. the Feel

Something about the red walls makes you feel good when you walk in. Cozy, a bit urbane. The wall hangings are fun to look at – cute horses, historic Canadiana, trees….different.

5. Fans

Tatlows has fans. The restaurant inspires fierce loyalty. When East Gwillimbury Shines shared an article on Tatlows published on yorkregion.com on the East Gwillimbury Shines Facebook page, the post went viral. It reached 9, 522 people, was shared 106 times, and received over 77 “Loves” and “Likes”. Here are just a sampling of some of the exuberant comments:

“This is our #1 pick” “We will only go to this restaurant””the food is fantastic!!!!!” “Love Tatlows” “If you haven’t been here you don’t know what you are missing.” “This is the best restaurant around with the best staff.” “Awesome food comes out of this little hole in the wall eatery. Don’t judge a book by its cover!” “Never had a bad experience yet!” “This little restaurant puts out some of the best meals I’ve ever had” “G’s curry is so authentic and delicious. ” “I would highly recommend Tatlows” “Love Tatlows best eggs bennie!!!!” “Tatlows is a regular weekend breakfast stop for us!” “Great service !!!” “Best soups and delicious lamb! True gem!!”

Christmas in East Gwillimbury

Christmas is fast approaching. There are many pretty scenes on the streets of East Gwillimbury. So many lights! So much spirit! We are enveloped in a beautiful blanket of snow for utmost Christmas readiness.

“Treetops glisten and children listen” – for it looks like it really will be a white Christmas this year.

McDonald’s Open Its Doors in East Gwillimbury

I remember when going to McDonald’s was the biggest treat in the world. Growing up in the suburbs of Montreal, a trip to McDonald’s meant “thrills.”

People always seemed to get really thick vanilla or chocolate milkshakes, then, with their meal. The thickness of the milkshake through a yellow McDonald’s straw was such that it would take a kid at least half an hour to finish his or her drink. We never minded.

The last day of school was often an occasion to go to McDonald’s.

Another day (for me) was Christmas Eve. Well maybe that happened only once or twice. But the memory stays in my heart. With parents busy wrapping presents at home, my older sister and I walked to McDonald’s in a wintry wonderland. It was quiet and peaceful.

I don’t know the lore surrounding McDonald’s Restaurants in Newmarket and area in the 80’s, 90’s. Did McDonald’s here also serve pizza in small, square boxes for a while (a novelty that didn’t last)? Probably. Did kids ever enjoy a wintry adventure on Christmas Eve at the Yonge location? Surely they did.

I do know that McDonald’s coming to East Gwillimbury is a big deal.

As can be be expected, the restaurant facility at Green Lane (near Lowe’s) is pristine and fun. There are cool-coloured stools. An automated system to order before you even reach the counter. The usual Happy Meals. While we were there, Christmas songs spilled softly out of the sound system – including “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.”

Maybe your childhood memories played out in another town or country. You’re new to East Gwillimbury and your arrival is timed with the rise of developments and change. Maybe you’re coming “home” to EG after a long time for the holidays. Whatever your story, McDonald’s has been a cultural fixture for a long time, weaving into our lives, making the restaurant chain part of the personal tapestry of many. Now it’s here.

The Magic of Lego Club in East Gwillimbury

In East Gwillimbury, there is a place where great minds meet. It’s the Lego Club at the East Gwillimbury Public Library.

Where a bin of lego is a portal into a world of imagination. For those who venture into this drop-in world, creativity soars, building endeavours are undertaken and friendships formed.

Don’t forget Lego Club. It’s one of the best, free-est things you can do in East Gwillimbury. See the Library’s website for times for both the Mount Albert and Holland Landing Branch.

Dinner and a Movie in Holland Landing

East Gwillimbury is getting so modern. After going to the East Gwillimbury Public Library to select Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure – my daughter’s movie pick – we headed over to The Neighbourhood Market. This was our first time at The Neighbourhood Market and wow! it’s a real little grocery store. They had everything you could want or need – from a staffed deli in the back of the market to avocados and drinks. We picked chicken strips (to pair with vegetables), milk and apple pie. What a modern night in Holland Landing – movie and dinner! In the “downtown” core of HL! What a great Friday Night!

An Epic Journey: 2nd Concession is Now Open!

Source: York Region

The moment we have all been waiting for is here! 2nd Concession has now re-opened! It re-opened on Monday November 7th, at 5:30pm.

The Mayor of East Gwillimbury, Virginia Hackson issued the following press release statement earlier today:

“I understand it has been a long time coming but I am confident you will all appreciate the new road and everything it has to offer. The 2nd Concession transformation project, the “Great Streets” road widening and bridge replacement project, encompasses a new trail underpass, a pedestrian boardwalk and viewing areas – showcasing the natural environment and attracting visitors for years to come. I am very enthusiastic and excited about the new 2nd Concession and truly hope you are too. This is a great road improvement for East Gwillimbury.”

As you can see from the York Region aerial footage, this exciting project was of epic proportion! And now the citizens of East Gwillimbury will truly benefit. It is a thrilling day.

Hard-Working in EG

working in eg

Every day East Gwillimbury citizens hit the road. They are hard at work. They have long drives or short.

They work from home. They do shifts. They put in the hours.

What’s your job? What do you do? How do you make it all work?

Fall at Strawberry Creek Farms

__________ Fall is in full force at Strawberry Creek Farm.

Hard to say what is most fun: picking a pumpkin, the pumpkin canon, hay ride, meeting the friendly animals,

or trying out the games at the Amazing Acres. Maybe it’s buying a fresh-baked pie!

Lunch in Sharon at Subway: Restaurant Review

My daughter and I took a long walk through Sharon, enjoying the sights of the old historic buildings, including the Sharon Temple and downtown core. We stopped for lunch at Subway on Leslie. It was very tasty. My daughter, who can be a picky eater, ate every last bite of her subway sandwich. The Turkey Breast sandwich with ranch sauce (or mustard) is fresh and wholesome for lunch. We were treated with courtesy and attention at Subway. The window view from Subway is literally at the base of change in East Gwillimbury. Development sales offices abound. While we ate, construction vehicles moved about, clearing the expansive land beside Mount Albert Road. It was apparent, in a most immediate sense, that this view – this experience of lunch in Sharon, East Gwillimbury as it was on a quiet weekday in the fall of 2015- will never be the same again. From farm landscape… to housing district before our eyes.

Subway currently works with Holland Landing Public School as a lunch provider for the school’s fundraiser program. In the past, Subway has worked with Sharon Public School and Our Lady of Good Counsel for similar fundraisers.

No compensation was received for this review; The lunch was purchased with the author’s own money.

Photo credits: CDeep

New developments in Sharon (East Gwillimbury)

Preschooler’s Guide to East Gwillimbury

There are so many things for the preschooler to do in East Gwillimbury. Here is our list of top programs and activities for babies, toddlers and preschoolers in East Gwillimbury.

Ontario Early Years
Free provincial programs regularly run in East Gwillimbury (currently at Park Avenue School, Robert Munsch School, EGPL and in the summers, at Anchor Park. (See calendars here @ Ontario Early Years, York North, through York Child Development & Family Services Inc.) The EG locations are listed as “Outreach & Satellite Programming.” Crafts, sensory activities, a chance to talk with other parents and caregivers are all part of the experience.

The Storybook House (A.O.K. Program)

A free drop-in program for caregiver or parent and child at Holland Landing Public School. Water table, plenty of toys, crafts, a chance to socialize, circle time, lots of fun. On warm days, the children sometimes ride trikes and cars outside. The AOK (All Our Kids) Program is run by York Professional Care and Education through York Region. Currently on Mondays and Wednesday mornings for children 6 and under.

Family Place

Located in the lower level of the Mount Albert Community Centre. A not-for-profit organization offers Learning Library, Parent & Baby Boot Camp and other programs.

Library Storytime

Come listen and sing along at the EGPL (East Gwillimbury Public Library). Not only do the Holland Landing Branch and Mount Albert Branch Libraries offer family, baby, ones & twos and preschool storytime,(early literacy, songs, riddles), additional programs like Bebop & Dance, Drama Kids and special events are part of the regular season. A special time. Where memories, learning and connections are made. Check here for dates and schedules.

Preschool and Daycare
Preschool/daycares for preschoolers include Holland Landing Children’s Academy, Mount Albert Children’s Academy, Good Shepherd Child Care Centre, Gwillimbury Hills, Queensville Montessori and many home daycares across EG. Preschools include Kinder School Explorers by the Town of East Gwillimbury and Noah’s Ark.

Town of East Gwillimbury

A roundup of fun activities for the baby, toddler and preschool set includes Music for Toddlers, Tennis for Tots, Kindergym, Kindersports, ballet, Wee Chefs, swimming, and other exciting programs. Register here!

Activities
Kicks Dance Studio, EG Soccer Club , East Gwillimbury Minor Softball Association, and Can Skate through the East Gwillimbury Skating Club offer programs starting at preschool age in East Gwillimbury.

Outdoors Fun

The ultimate place to be for the preschooler remains the playgrounds of East Gwillimbury. Here is a list of parks, playgrounds and amenities.

Splash pads are found at the Ross Family Complex, Holland Landing Community Centre, Harvest Hills Park & Spray Pad at Parkway Park.

Nature trails await the eager toddler, preschooler or baby in a stroller. Tobogganing is fun at Sharon Hills Park. Tots enjoy public skating with the Town of East Gwillimbury at the East Gwillimbury Sports Complex (see Parent & Tot skate).

Other
While you work out, preschoolers can enjoy playtime at LA Fitness Kids Klub. Or at Fit 4 Less at GreenLane. Checking out the toys and train table at Mastermind is also fun. So is the free cookie at Superstore or free Build & Grow clinics for children aged 2 to 5 at Lowe’s.

Photo credits: CDeep, TDeep

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