Scrooge (John Thurston) with Lynda Reeds "Scrooge's Christmas." by Theodosia Paynter, music by G. A. Grant-Schaefer. that came to life so brightly on the stage of Maple Commun- lty Hall. December 16 and 18. with the cast of grade 8 pupils in Ross Kennedy's class. George Bailey Public School. So it was the ageless story of Dickens "Christmas Car- ol," adapted into an Operetta BY TOBY SHORI "Christmas! Bah! Hum- bug!" scoffs Scrooge n he gloats over his money in his counting room as his clerk, Bob, strives to warm his shivering bones over a flick- ering candle. Maple’s “Scrooge†Merry Christmas Music Note Maple, Concord and Edgeley District News “Th le r31†1: alwavs willing to publish Items regarding people and events contrihuted by its readers in Maple. Concord and Edgy.†distrius. e e u , ‘ . - -....- A ru,,u,,, Au.- c:____..__.| In..- n-......._..l ca..-..a I" z InoA. -__I x n -- Many of the parents fam- THE LIBERAL. Richmond Hill "The Libéal" u always willing Our representative in Maple is Ruth Kel'fer, 285-6805. J. nurston, Sharon Amos, Penny Aubertin John Thurston and Rod Shields ilies andrfriends in the overâ€" flow audiences. had long lost count of the times they had encountered “Scrooge†at this season of the year; for some of the smaller memb- ers, it was their first intro- duction to this story that surprised them, made them laugh. sing along and indeed startle them at times. Scrooge ‘as played by John Thurston, enacted the part of the miserly. miser- able. skinflint in a most cre- ditable manner. He convincingly porlrayed his many moods. â€"â€" anger, disgust, sarcasm, incredul- ance and fright and then following his mellowing he was near gaiety at times is Mrs publish items regarding pe . Len Shore ALpine 7-1037 Ontario, Thursday, Dec. 26th, 1963‘ ‘, Joan Earnshaw, Sheena McDonald, Wilma Hoogenboom, R.Shields regarding people and events contributed by Its readers In Maple. Concord and Edgeley districts. Lpine 7-1037; in Edgelcy and Sherwood. Mrs. Raymond Stuart. AV. 5-1934; and in Concord. Mrs. wistful and finally almost human. John held his char- acter in restraint. not allow- ing him to switch over too soon or too completely. The part of the timorous and chilled clerk. Bob. was well done by Steve Shore. -â€" his mannerisms and general appearance fitted into the scene. Whether he was speaking or busily humped over his account books with furtive attempts to warm himself by chafing his hands or in desperation hesitantly trying to lift a coal to add to his brazier. he was always the meek poor clerk who somehow managed to con- ‘tain the Christmas spirit. The operetta was in two In the many lively and spirited songs and dances which were interposed throughout act one. the Car- ollers and Ragamuffin's, in their fitting costumes of the period. made this “Christ- mas Carol" a bright and swiftly moving delight. acts. Paul Plunkett as Fred. the jaunty, easy-going nephew of Scrooge, was resplendent in his bright attire and although impatiently dismissed by his disgusted uncle. who refuses to join his nephew for fest- ivities, he keeps his hearty manner in his seasonal ex- changes with Bob. Later in his meagre but joyous home surroundings, Bob greets his family at the festive board, The story book Mrs. Cratchit, come to life in her ‘twice-turned‘ be-rib- boned gown and ruffled cap. Shelley James as Mrs. C. fussed over her brood like a mother hen but was most vehement In her disapproval of husband Bob's boss Scrooge. With a not too suspended gasp from the little folk in the audience, the opening scene with Scrooge‘ con- fronted with the ghost of Jacob Marley, was well stag- ed and well lighted to bring out the eeriness of Marley (Rod Sheilds) in his white shroud, d r a g g l n g heavy chains. Throughout various scenes, dances were performed such as the “Grotesque Dance", by the Festive Ghouls. and the Three Ghosts to the moan- ing and clanging of chains off stage eerily move about the stage. The Cratchit children were boisterous and hearty enjoy- ing their Christmas dinner and Tiny Tim (Ken Rumble) joined in too adding "God bless us everyone!" While a while spot-light shOWed up the quaking Scrooge in his bed. an infra red light picked up the ghostly shroud making it fluorescent. In an excellent voice of doom tone, Jacob admonish- es Scrooge and warns him to mend his ways or he too will become a restless spirit. with no peace and always the tor- ture of remorse. Finally Scrooge has his eyes opened and promises to h o n o r Christmas in his heart and keep it all the year. The make-up. which was fantastic and greatly in keep- ing with the characters port- rayed. was done by Phyl Mcâ€" Millan. She had a limited to non-existent s u p ply of make-up materials but with the outcome no one would have guessed it. These dances and the Rag- lmuffins were choreograph- ed by Jean Cringan who in~ structed and taught the dan- cers. Jan Myers and her help- ers of many mothers come up with attic surprises along with assistance from Mala- bar Costumers and the great- ly appreciated knowledge- able aid of the Curtain Club of Richmond Hill. Spot lighting was in the capable hands of Reg Rouse. That well-worn phrase â€"â€" "above and beyond the call of duty." is becoming synon- ymous with the mention of the extra curricular duties The stage lightiï¬g was handled by novice Greg Shore who acquitted him- self nobly in his first endea- voun the supervisor of music Around the campfire the Ragamuffins shiver-ed as they sang “Our Bones are Cold". They all combine to sing “God Rest you Merry. Gentlemen" before Scrooge shoos them off. When Jacob Marley is im- plored by his former partner to give him peace, (and fin- ally repents) they sang ac- companied by the ghosts. "Ghosts." The grocery lads and shopping Iasses sang “Christ- mas Errands". was seeing outside Scrooge‘s office by carollers and cho- rus, “Ring the Bells". “Come, This Y u I e t i d e Night.†is sung by the angels who visit Scrooge who in turn joins in. Outside Bob Cratchit‘s home, carollers and chorus gain sang “Oh. Christmas Tree." and later Bob, Mrs. Cratchit and family extol the wonders of "The Goodly Goose," -â€" whose end has come! for Vaughan Township Hugh Martin and the assistant su- pervisor Bob Richardson. Many Weeks of Rehearsal The amount of effort and time spent to give Maple community a fine night, of entertainment surely paid off. Supported by his crutch, and a stomach full of goose. Tiny Tim sang of himself and family in “God Bless us Every One!" The chorus joined the Little Chef in singing “Hey and a Hoi", then “Blind Man‘s Buff" and the finale with entire cast “Ring the Bells". In covering the most am- bitious portion of the prog- ram first surely doesn’t mean it was meant to be placed first in importance or en- Joyment. This audience no doubt remembering other school concert efforts where nearly every Johnnie or Jane sang To ensure a worth while project such as a Christmas concert; Mr. Kennedy real- zied many weeks of practice and rehearsals were requir- ed. Since it was to be an op- eretta. music was an impor- tant ingredient and thus these music men became in~ volved: Mr. Martin cneating the spirit and tone while Mr. Richardson accompanied and lent support at, the piano. ~ ~â€"-- 15 a little song or recital. found themselves in for a surprise and a treat The staff had indeed arranged a versatile program. The two grade one rooms with their teachers Mrs. Do- ris Tilt and Mrs. Miriam Wil- son. combined to present the well known fairy tale, “Pussy Cat, Pussy Cat†in the form of a musical play. There were over 60 child~ ren in this cast. â€" a few drop outs because of illness. The “Pussy Cat" on Monday night was engagingly played by Jo-Anne Sara who was a last minute replacement as was Elaine Ellis Wednesday night. The resplendent heralds with their golden trumpets announced the arrival of the‘; king and queen. regal in " their majestic royal longlï¬ robed costumes and crowns y This royal pair was played 5! by Jane McCarthy and Garry jâ€; Michels. ' Helen Johï¬soyn, grade 5 was the narrator. filling in expected scenes for the aud- ience. Each group came front and centre to sing of the chores they carried out at the palace where Pussy-Cat had visited. Mrs. Tilt and Mrs. Wilson would like to add their grate- ful thanks to the mothers who turned costume design- ers and this made the effort such a success. During the pussy cats’ visit to London to see the queen. she saw many wondrous rights. At the palace gate. the royal guards stood stiff and straight in uniforms of red. gold and black and their high black hats the king‘s tail- ors, cooks in chef's hats and all the men who swab the palace floors! The chorus. with big red 1’! b0\vs sang “Ho ho ho. who: wouldn’t go. up on the house 5 tops and down through the;‘ chimney with good St. Nick.“ u Grade 2 pupils with their teacher Miss Dona Wyckoff {resented “Mrs. Santa's Christmas Gift". The puifué Were divided into a chorus and a group of Santa's elves. would The elves wore red jack- ets and tasseled hats, with long black stockings and tir- ed as they were after help- ing make Santa's toys. they wanted something special for Mrs. Santa who had been so good to them all year. They had a watch for Santa. that really ticked but for Mrs. Santa. “what to do, what to do." finally realizing all the cleaning up to be done {“KK“K‘HKKKKKKKKK“ â€" they made that as a com- pleted chore as their gift. to (Continued on Page 12) The introduction to Act just as if they surely 'at it (Wï¬mxmmmmmmmmzflxmemmmw Carol Singing '1 me municipal office stafi‘ jomed in car01 singing with the pupils of grade 7, George Bailey Public School. Maple. on the morning of December 18. 19 and 20, from 8:30 to 9 am. Along with the traditional carols, Mr. Martin interjected some popular Christmas songs tuned to the school children but brought the staff and visitors in on 'rounds' and divided groups and choruses. Thursday morning. presenta‘ tions were made to Mr. Martin. and to Mr. Richardson by two grade 8 pupils John Thurston and Steve Shore as tokens of appreciation for the leadership given the pupils throughout the whole yearv but more espe- cially for-the personal interest they have shown to pupils and staff alike. Throughout Vaughan area as is the custom each year. service clubs. community associations and church groups. combine their forces and interests with Welfare Offlcer Ross Kerwin’s department. in seeing all needy families will share in Christ- mas festivities, by way of food and clothing hampers. Under the spirited direction of the Vaughan Township Mus- ic Supervisor Hugh Martin and accompanied by the Assistant Supervisor Bob Richardson. this happy carol singing has be- came an annual event. Christmas Shared It's indeed the right and a most delightful way to start the pre-festive day. available for Vaughan residenté nearer to Maple but the one 3OCICIIS point of interest for yours Mrs. R. J. Darlingtnn will be‘truly was the fact that this re- the hostess for a regular meet- ception was held at Murray ing of the Edgeley Women's House. Steeles Avenue. near Institute on January 9 at 2 p.m.lBathurst. The Edgeley Branch members are sponsoring a short course in copper tooling on January 6‘ and 7 from 10 am. to 4 p.m.: both days. at the home of Mrs. J. W. Dalziel. Ladies in the com- munity who wish to take the course, please get in touch with either Mrs. George Snider, Mrs. Frank Locke or Mrs. Chas. Ag- new and she will tell you what equipment to bring to the clas- ses. Each lzgdy is asked to bring her lunch. ' :KKKKflKmï¬ï¬KQ “‘6‘: a Mrs. Gordon Purves For Services We Render 8: General Information Call Mr. A. T. Crosier Richmond Hill area Mrs. D. C. F. Fayle Mrs Mrs Mrs Thornhill Area Mrs. E. Percival Victoria Square are: Mrs. C. Nichols Markham Area Mrs. O. S. Stalter Unionville Area Mrs. E. Stiver Gormley Area Mr. George Brand To gel] Antiques. Furniture, Pianos, Pet Stock â€" Anything! Advertise in the Want Ads Every Thursday For Fast Action Phone RICHMOND HILL & DISTRICT UNIT CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY Edgeley Socials 4-1105-6 S. G. Phillips 884-4010 W. C. Armstrong The Week 9 s Happenings In Maple ennox AV. 5-1839 884-5501 297-1186 884-3348 884â€"482] 884-1034 297-1585 294-1450 886-5525 886-5200 5-3816 Teacher Swamped by Former ‘ing was in the prooess of con- Pupils struction. I had followed its When word got around that progress until it was completed. Mr. Mcl’hail was in the prin- The architecture is of that cipal's office. his former grade,new school that is most intrigu- 7 pupils mow in grade 8) madering to me and at last. I had the a beeline for him to say hello. opportunity to enter and see For this first school term, for himself. Having wandere‘d the boys and girls have beenjaround peering here and there most concerned over the formereâ€" I wasn't in the least disap- George Bailey school teacherlpointed and above and beyond and his wife. who both suffere lthat, the terrific snack foods severe injuries in a car accid- served were hmmm good. Pip- ent near Lindsay, just a week ing hot â€"â€" (and some cold hors before school started in the fall. d’oeuvres special Jewish re- By way of getting back into cipes the likes of which I've the swim of things. Merrell Mc-‘hear’d but never sampled.) Phail spent a few hours in the‘ All in all. an interesting re~ By way of getting back into the swim of things. Merrell Mc- Phail spent a few hours in the class room in which he will take over duties in the new year. His wife, Donna McPhail, is also on the staff of Vaughan Area School Board and will be teaching in the newly added classroom at Jefferson School, Yonge Street in January. When word got around that Mr. McPhail was in the prin- cipal‘s office. his former grade 7 pupils «now in grade 8) made a beeline for him to say hello. For this first school term. the boys and girls have been most concerned over the former George Bailey school teacher Needless to say, it is not only those attending the school who are delighted with the news of Merrill and Donna McPhail's return. but the many who fol- lowed their progress with pray- ers for a speedy recovery. who have added their welcome back good wishes. Reception of Interest At the recent reception held to formally announce the build. ing of the enclosed double-rink minor league hockey arena. by Doublerink Arenas Ltd., at Jane Street and Highway 7. â€" it was interesting to learn of this the world‘s first such building to obtain energy for light. heat and refrigeration from a total energy plant fueled by natural gas. Also it Was of interest to knowrthere would be a rink LIBERAL CLASSIFIEDS â€" GET RESULTS â€" PHONE TU. 4-1105 During the months this build- mmumx mam: mm cumm- Thanks For Gifts Many thanks for putting the notice in “The Liberal" re men- tal health gifts in the November 21 issue. says Margaret Martin. All m all, an ception! “Could you please thank those who responded to the re- quests for gifts on behalf of York County Mental Health As- sociation? The Maple response was very generous and the gifts very useful and acceptable." she said. St. Stephen's Church and Sunday school presented their gifts on Advent Sunday, Dec- ember 1. White Cross volunteers sort- ed and wrapped the gifts and the patients in York County will all be remembered at Christmas. Maple anen's Institute The Christmas Women's In- stitute meeting was held at the home of Mrs. W. Noble with Mrs. Harris in the chair. Three minutes of silence were ob- served in memory of Mrs. E. Kyle. a beloved former presid- ent and Mrs. 1. Watson. a for- mer member. mer member. A Christmas candle lighting Mrs. H. Jackson read Mrswservice followed. led by MFS- L- N. Payne's report of the board‘Palmer: reading Scriptures. meeting. Carols were sung with were Mrs. Kyer and Mrs. H. Mrs. Noble at the piano. Mrs. Jackson; lighting the candles Williams read a splendid article Mrs. B. Weese. Mrs. M. Walk- on the Christmas theme and‘er and Mrs. R. Sherman. Mrs. how it affects our lives. ItlJones-Whittey was pianist. At the January 8 meeting. slides of the Yukon and Ger- many will be shown. Mrs. H. Jackson. Mrs. H. Stephenson and Mrs. V. Blakelock are the committee in charge. Maple United Church The white gift service was held in the education building December 15 with Norman Lund in charge. .Inhn Jackson supplied Christ- mas music and was pianist for the singing of hymns. Robert. Bailie read the script- ure. Musical numbers were sung by Nancy Joan Yake. and Mary Brook and the primary departman They were led by Brian Thurston and accompani- ed by Mrs. W. Woods. Norman Lund told the story. “If I had not come." Miss Ann Craib and Miss Nay- lor gave a very interesting and instructive demonstration on Christmas gift wrapping and table decorations. Mrs. Leece conducted a fabric contest. Mrs. Harris and Miss Gooderliam were the winners. A lunch was served by the committee. Mrs. Jennings. Mrs. Leece and Mrs. G. Watson. Mr. Lund. who is retiring as general superintendent after many active years thanked all for their help. He asked for the same continuing support of his successor. was followed by carols sung in the candlelight. Maple United Church Women met December 17 in the church parlour to finish off the year's work with an enjoyable pot luck supper. Later the white gifts were re ceived for families in need. itimï¬uwawuuuuuwuuzlmg United Church Women read the script- numbcrs were Joan Yake. and Id the primary