Volunteer Contributions

We will be having a series of blog postings that will be contributions from Treasures volunteers. The first in the series will be a poem from one of our volunteers about the range of emotions that new life experience create. I hope you enjoy this.

Change

Change is very frightening,
I don't know what to do,
It can also be exciting,
To try something new.

Why can't everything stay the same?
It would be more relaxing,
Maintaining the status quo,
Wouldn't be so taxing!

It is hard to embrace it,
When it scares me that much,
I guess I just have to face it,
And learn to buck up.

Maybe if I act really quiet,
It will forget me and pass me by,
I will lay low awhile,
Until all the change subsides.

Is all this really good for you?
Does it really make you grow?
How can you tell if it's helping you?
When the progress is so slow.

Change sure is a lot of work,
It's not a lot of laughs,
It's not easy to get used to,
And it's hard to stay on track.

Change is so unpredictable,
You can never tell what's what,
It can seem a bit elliptical,
Moving back and forth so much.

Others have survived it,
So it can't be all that bad,
I think I might try it,
Instead of wishing that I had.

Carolyn U.

Christmas Party Recipe

This year's Christmas Party included party favours of small jars of 'Citrus Pumpkin Butter'. Since, the recipe has been requested, I will post it for everyone to reproduce.

Citrus Pumpkin Butter
makes 24-125 ml jars

1 pumpkin
4-5 oranges
4 cups of sugar
1 cup of honey
5 tsp. of pumpkin pie spice
2 pkg. of Fruit pectin (49g)
4 tbsp. of lemon juice

The pumpkin should be washed, seeded and cut into large pieces. Place the pieces into a large pot and boil until soft and the rind can be easily removed, about 20 minutes. Remove the rind and add grated rind from the oranges, add orange pulp(about 5 cups) to the pumpkin. Add the sugar, honey and spice and puree the mixture until smooth. Place the mixture in a stainless steel pot, and add the pectin. Boil for 1 minute, remove from heat and add lemon juice.


Prepare the jars and lids, in boiling water.

Ladle into prepared jars and process in a canner for 10 minutes, cool and check jar seals.

Excellent on toast. Enjoy!

25th Anniversary of Treasures

"New Beginnings for People and Things" was just an idea before June 1986 when Treasures started as a 8' x 10' booth in the Fantastic Flea Market. Founders, Elizabeth and Robin conceived it as a supportive place for people with mental and emotional problems as well as a well-spring of hope for them to feel useful. On September 1986, the operations were moved to 4 Levendale Road and now resides at 12 Levendale Road.

Treasures will be celebrating its 25th year of operation and there are great plans in the works to mark this milestone. Many volunteers, board members and managers have been involved with the success of Treasures and their contribution is greatly appreciated.

A contribution to our success is the customers who donate many wonderful items. Many hands help make Richmond Hill a better place, by diverting items from landfills and providing a place for people in need.

Volunteer Retires

One of our book ladies has retired. Mary has been with Treasures since the beginning, 25 years ago, performing many duties for the store. Along with maintaining 'The Book Nook', she also wrote the Treasures' newsletter, which was distributed to the volunteers of Treasures.

Mary will be dedicating more of her time to her family, friends, charities and her many other interests that she is involved in.

Thank you, Mary for all your contribution and dedication to Treasures over the years! All of your work is greatly appreciated. Treasures wishes you all the best in your future endeavours.

Mental Illness Awareness Week

Last week's events to bring awareness to the existence of individuals with mental health issues went very well. We started off the week giving away mugs with every purchase, Tuesdays consisted of reusable bag give aways and ending the week with a 50% off sale and cookies for customers.

The week was very successful. Our customers always enjoy sales days and ask when the next sale will be. Information was provided about the importance of this week for the store.

Customers

The other day, I was fortunate to meet up with a former high school teacher, who was donating items to the store. It had been a few years since I had been in high school and found that this customer had a familiar face.

After some inquiries, I had established that this customer had indeed been my high school English teacher. She had imparted on me the love of live plays and listening to the CBC for their programming. I now have passed along this love of seeing plays to my children.

She told me that she loves 'Treasures' and had purchased books when her children were younger.

Thank to Treasures for the wonderful memories that have been stirred up.

Dedication to one of our Customers

I would like to dedicate this posting to one of our regular customers, who has recently passed away. Carl, was a patron of Treasures for many years and was well liked by many of the volunteers and local residents.

He would often pick some up some baked goods and bring some goodies to the volunteers. Carl was a cheerful and friendly man with always a good word for our volunteers.

Thank you, Carl for the years of loyalty to Treasures and the friendships you developed with the numerous volunteers. You will be greatly missed!

August Auction Items

August has been an incredibly busy month here at Treasures. We have had a mountain of donations come in, and you can take advantage of all the deals on this great new stuff. As always, we have:

collectibles
nostalgia items
books
clothes
gadgets
artwork
shoes
records, DVDs, videos
knick-knacks
etc.

Our silent auction items include the brooches and a Canon camera as shown in the photographs.

Don't forget, if it doesn't sell, it goes on sale! That's right, even lower prices, at the lowest priced store in Richmond Hill.

Remember too that your donations are always welcome at Treasures.

Annual Picnic

Treasures annual picnic was celebrated August 10 and a great time was had by all. The backlot was used by the volunteers. Umbrellas, tables and chairs were set up. The weather co-operated, holding off the rain until after the picnic was done.

The barbeque was wonderfully (wo)manned by Carol, our president. There was plenty of food and engaging conversation. There was a donation received during the picnic.

This annual picnic is one of the events that the volunteers at Treasures enjoy. This is a nice way to celebrate the season with an outdoor event with friends. During the year, the volunteers are so busy handling the donations, we rarely find the time to enjoy their fellow volunteer's company.

Donations are grealy welcome and keep the volunteers busy. The volunteers enjoy seeing the variety of donations and varied tastes of our patrons. The customers also have commented on the variety of items that can be found at our store.

James Lansdowne Pictures

This auction item includes three signed pictures by artist James Lansdowne. He was known for his pictures of birds. The pictures have greatly appreciated since his death.

James Lansdowne was a self-taught naturalist artist, who has shown similar style to the works of John James Audubon. He was born in Hong Kong and raised in British Columbia. The first showing of his works were at the Royal Ontario Museum in 1956.

The Canadian government presented his works to the British Royal Family in 1976. He also became an officer of the Order of Canada in that same year.

Check out this and all our other great auction items at Richmond Hill's collectibles and "gently used" re-sale shoppe, Treasures.

Summer Clothing and Shoe Clearance

We are nearing the end of summer and we have an abundance of summer clothing and shoes we need to unload. Our answer is to have an amazing blowout of a sale!!!! Each item of clothing or pair of summer shoes for only one dollar. This amazing offer will last only this week.

Our feature auction item is our collection of Soapstone currently in our auction display case. This collection contains some unique carvings and some are signed.

Our back-to-school section is ready for those parents who are preparing for their children to go back to school! We have a large selection of binders, packages of paper, rulers and many items too numerous to name.

Come to Treasures for all your summer, back-to-school needs and if you just want to browse!! Hope to see you soon.

More Auction Items

In our Auction Display Case there is a set of commemorative coins with the images of the Prime Ministers. The coins come in a wooden display plaque. This is a beautiful set for the coin enthusiast.

Also, in time for the fishing season, a set of reels and a lure. One Driftor tackle lure and one Pro Staff reel with a box. Now with the warm weather here, it is a great time to head to cottage country for some rest and relaxation and maybe some fishing.

After being closed for a few days, it is nice to be back. We have received many new donations that will be in our Auction Display case; beautiful cups and saucer sets, pottery, figurines and pictures.

It pays to visit our store regularly due to the abundance of donations we receive daily. The displays change often, as well as the the merchandise available for sale. There are occasional surprise sales at Treasures on our already low, low prices. Check out Treasures for your everyday needs!

Sherman Necklace

We have recently received a donation of a beautiful signed Sherman Aurora Borealis necklace with matching earrings. The earrings are not signed, but are equally spectacular. The set is currently in the auction display case.

The other items in the auction are; a soapstone collection, a crystal bowl, 22kt. gold filled Cross Pen sets, 1970s Prime Minister of Canada coin set, a silver coffee and tea set, glass elephant figurines (possibly Murano) and fishing reels and a lure.

Remember to stop buy and place a bid on your favourite items. Merchandise at Treasures fly off the shelves very quickly. While you are in the store, please feel free to browse at our display of other merchandise.

Summer = Sports!!!!

Summer = Sports!!

Now that the summer is in full swing , come and check out the brass golfer we have in our store for sale (pardon the pun). We also have golf bag caddies and golf clubs for sale. So sharpen up your cleats and get the great golf gear while it lasts.

We also have many summer items such as tennis rackets, badminton rackets, horse shoes, frisbees and many other fun outdoor summer activity items.

Plus, enjoy the summer weather with some of our fantastic, gently-loved summer clothes.

Summer's a blast at Treasures. We have banished the cold weather wear to the storage areas. We are looking forward to the wonderful heat of summer.

New Auction Items

We have some absolutely delightful stuff on auction right now at Treasures, Richmond Hill's Charity Re-sale Emporium. Come to see the most recent additions to the Auction Display case. Among them - a lovely pair of brass horse bookends, made by Birks, and, a beautiful artistic glass vase.

It's great to see all the regulars who take advantage of our great deals while at the same time helping a good cause. So why don't you joint the group - become a regular yourself, at Treasures.

We have recently received some very nice items as donations and they will be put in auction, in the near future. Before we do, we need to move the great auction items currently on offer. See you soon!

Tired of Retail Prices?

Tired of retail prices? Treasures has gently used clothes, some with designer labels. Let's face it - retail is overpriced and overhyped. We are always getting in GAP, American Eagle, Lacoste, Perry Ellis, Old Navy, and many other designer labels. But nothing lasts long, so check back regularly for all the new stock.

...not mention the fact that if it doesn't sell, it goes on sale at Treasures, at even further reduced prices.

Treasures is a charity and patronizing the store helps the community and the volunteers that man the store. Treasures also performs the service of recycling donations, and support many other charities in turn.

Rundown of Auction Items Currently on Display

What a collection we have for June, in our display case!

1)

Jade necklace, bracelet and clip earrings


3)

Collection of milk glass


4)

A grouping of Seiko, Fossil and Timex watches


5)

A lovely crystal decanter and six glasses


6)

A 1st printing (#1/66), near mint condition copy of Truman Capote's "In Cold Blood


7)

An exceptional Murano vase


8)

An asian figurine - adorable


11)

A collection of brooches


The way it works is simple - come in and take a look at the lovely items on display. Then place your bid in the binder; if you've won, you will be notified.

It's an incredible opportunity, because these collectibles tend to go for far less than their market value.

Visit soon.

Adding Some New Photos

Look along the side and you'll see that we are adding photos of our neatest stuff. Check back often for pix as we add them. Many auction items have sold of late, but we continously add new terrific collectibles on silent auction.

Unfortunately we sold our cutest stuffy this week (photo at right), but we have lots of others. You'll certainly find something you like.

New Donations

We have recently received a large donation of magazines; Artist
Magazines, Car Magazines, National Geographic and many cooking
magazines. The magazines are all for sale - wait for it.... for NICKEL a peice!! That's right, $.05 per issue. Where in the world can you find a bargain like that? Right in the heart of beautiful Richmond Hill, Ontario, in the legendary Levendale Plaza - at Treasures.

Another recent donation contained a great deal of rooster-themed items - a popular theme for kitchen decorating. There are many dishes, glasses and mugs all at very low prices. So cock-a-doodle on over here, and check out the chicken stuff.

Keep in mind, we are a not-for-profit operation, and thrive on your generous donations. Time and time again, we are shown just how generous you can be. The finest items go on auction (probably the best kept secret in Richmond Hill). But everything we sell at Treasures is bargain-priced. The beauty of our operation is that it keeps one coming back - because there's always some new treasure popping up at Treasures. Hope to see you soon.

We accept your donations during store hours from 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday.

Moving or Moving Out

Are you in the process of selling a home and staging the home to be sold? Treasures has a large selection of books to stage your home and make it a showplace.

We also have great items for presenting your homes for the eventual selling of your home. We have lamps, pictures, knick knacks to present your home in a wonderful light.

Setting off on your own? We have the essentials for establishing your own home at very reasonable priced. Moving away from home to pursue higher education? Buying a second home and need to have to basics for kitchen use? We have dishes, glasses, cutlery, pots, mugs and many other items to fulfill your needs.

Mother's Day

Looking for a great Mother's Day, but, short on cash?

Look no further than Treasures! We've got a plethora of ideas for that perfect Mother's Day gift, for those on a budget. We also have Mother's Day cards.

Treat Mom with some flowers, vases, all her favourite books, gently used clothing and a wide variety of knick knacks for every taste, all so reasonably priced...

Spring donations are coming in, and the new stuff looks great, but remember, Treasures always needs your support - patronage, and donations. It goes to a great cause right in your neighbourhood.

Drop by and see us one day soon, and remember to have a great Mother's Day!

Special Occasion Clothing

Do you have a special occasion that needs that a special, yet affordable ensemble? Treasures has many formal occasion outfits at the right prices, as in cheap! Getting married, sooner than you expected, we have the special dress just for you. Haven't chosen that prom dress? We have plenty in stock. We also have men's suits for that man who would likes to look dapper, but, not spend too much.

Nostalgia Book Sale

This Wednesday, Treasures in Richmond Hill is featuring a Nostalgia Books Sale. Some incredible antiques and classics are available, including:

They Went Exploring by R.S. Lambert, published in 1829.

Moby Dick by Hans Brinker published in 1952.

Bowser the Hound by Thornton W. Burgess published in 1922.

Whitefoot the Wood Mouse by Thornton W. Burgess published in 1922.

Lightfoot the Deer by Thornton W. Burgess published in 1921.

Old Granny Fox by Thornton W. Burgess published in 1920.

Mrs. Peter Rabbit by Thornton W. Burgess published in 1919.


If those titles take you back, or if you're just plain curious, come on over and take a look. There's lots of other nostalgia to browse through as well, plus our usual selection of amazing deals, at rock bottom prices, at Treasures in the heart of beautiful Richmond Hill. See you soon!

Auction Items

We have so many wonderful auction items currently available at Treasures, it's almost difficult to keep track! So, here's a rundown of items - come into the store for the listing of current bids and to place a bid:

1) Vintage handmade stone necklace with a matching ring.

2) A Collection of military medals from the Vietnam era.

3)A pair of Gucci Shoes authentic, made in Itay, size 7-1/2.

4) A wonderful example Royal Worcester fine china, which includes 2 egg coddler and 1 jam jar.

5) Jack Halliday signed antique duck decoy, circa 1932.

6) Crystal - Mikasa "Windswept" decanter/carafe with four matching glasses.

7) A Rebecca collection doll- "girl on swing", in excellent condition.

8) Adeline Collection statue of a little boy and girl.

It's an incredible array, and they generally go for far less than their actual worth. Well worth taking a look, whether you are a collector, or just appreciate the unusual and beautiful things in life. You can also call us at 905-883-5122.

But that's not all - check out, for example, our Book Nook, with a huge selection of books, of all types, prices starting at $.25 and not priced more than $5.00. We keep bringing in new volumes all the time, so check back often. We also have lots of new "gently used" clothing, just in time for spring, as mentioned in a previous post.

We also have our "fill a bag for a dollar" stuff right in front of the store. Grab a bag and fill it - for a buck.

New promotions all the time - lately we've been adding a free mug or glass (your choice!!) to any purchase! Look for a new BOGO promotion soon.

Best of all, when you shop at Treasures in Richmond Hill, you are also donating to a worthy cause - we are Richmond Hill's charity re-sale shoppe! See you soon!


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Sports Gear!

What weather we've enjoyed lately, here in the GTA, and right here in Richmond Hill. The warmer temps have everyone thinking of the great outdoors and enjoying a little exercise - right?? Well, Treasures has a great selection of outdoor sports equipment, including tennis rackets, badminton rackets, golf clubs, basketballs and sports footwear.

Our warmer weather clothes are coming out of storage, just in time, too! The summer is fast approaching and everyone wants to peel off the winter clothing in favour of shorts and t-shirts. So, come check us out. We've got all sizes and styles at absolutely unbeatable prices.

Of course, if you have clothes or anything else you'd like to donate to our good cause, we'd love to receive your donations.

Quick note on the auction items - we still have a stone necklace with a matching ring up for bids, a vintage Rolling Stones album (limited pressing!), war medals and many more items on silent auction.

Remember, your purchases at Treasures are helping out a good cause.

Plus Size Clothes and Other Great Stuff!

We've received a terrific selection of gently used plus size clothes. They're all in great condition. We've placed them in a special section of the store, so that they can be viewed altogether. They won't last long, so come and take a look to take advantage of the great deals on clothing sizes we don't see all to frequently at the store!

By the way, all children's clothes are currently on sale. Check out the selection and great prices.

With Easter around the corner, we've brought our stock of Easter items, everything from baskets to bunny decorations, plus more; with Easter just around the corner, now's the time to pick up a few festive goodies.

Remember - when you shop at Treasures, you're not just finding great deals - you're doing a good deed, by helping the community.

Success of the Linda McGrath Appreciation Day

The Linda McGrath Customer Appreciation Day was a great success. Our volunteers contributed with delicious baked goods. Treasures provided our customers with complimentary tea and coffee. Many of the customers enjoyed the treats and the atmosphere. It was nice to see the regular customers and some new faces. Thank you to all who have contributed! It will be an event that will take place in the future, so check the blog regularly for updates and schedules of the next special events.

Linda McGrath Customer Appreciation Day, March 23, 2010

We, at Treasures are having a 'Linda McGrath Customer Appreciation Day' on March 23, 2010. Light refreshments will be served and there will be a one day 50% sale on everything in the store. This is a commemorative celebration of the life of Linda McGrath, a former manager at Treasures. There is wide selection of merchandise to browse through, including many best-selling novels, albums, auction items and much more!

Exciting New Donations and Sales!

We have received a great deal of lovely decorative plates today. We have an overabundance of travel bags and some are for sale for $1. Our sale of books and clothes will still be going on, for Friday, March 19. Our shoes and boots sale for $1 a pair will continue on Friday, March 19. We have had a recent donations of gently used plus size clothes.

Spring has Sprung!

Treasures of Richmond Hill is a gem of a place. It is a second hand/Thirft Shop that had its humble beginnings in 1986. The store is manned by persons in mental health recovery. We receive donations and sell them at reasonable prices. We are located at 12 Levendale Road, off of Yonge Street, north of Major Mackenzie.

The warmer weather has people feverish with spring cleaning. As a result, we have had an abundance of donations. The staff and managment are very grateful.

We have a silent auction as well. We have a Tom McNeely drawing/painting, an imported Beatles albums, antique pipes and many more. Bids must be placed in the store, no phone bids will be accepted. Welcome to this premiere blog entry and check back often with updates of the new items for sale in our store!