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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 2 THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 Metroland Media Group Ltd., 211 Pritchard Road, Unit 4, Hamilton ON L8J 0G5 A child who continues to develop their math skills can feel confident that they’re on track for a successful school year. Mathnasium gives students the instruction they need to reinforce what they’re learning in school, work on concepts that may pose a challenge, and take their math knowledge to a new level. In other words, we got this. Contact Us for a Free Assessment mathansium.com/ca/pickering/about Mathnasium of Pickering (905) 903-6638 | mathansium.com/ca/pickering/about 1450 Kingston Road, Pickering This moment is brought to you by Mathnasium Advocacy groups are calling on the Ford government to re- store the Greenbelt carve-outs and to return all protections to the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve (DRAP). A statement by Stop Sprawl Durham and the Rouge Duffins Greenspace Coalition came one day after then minister of munici- pal affairs and housing Steve Clark resigned. His resignation came shortly after Ontario's in- tegrity commissioner investigat- ed his conduct during the land swap that took 7,400 acres of land out of the Greenbelt in favour of development. J. David Wake's re- port found Clark contravened the Members' Integrity Act and should be reprimanded. The statement by the two ad- vocacy groups called the resigna- tion, the cabinet shuffle that fol- lowed and a new review of the Greenbelt — which Premier Doug Ford announced on Sept. 5 — a distraction from demands that Ford recall the legislature and return the land to the Green- belt. "The recommendations of both the provincial auditor gen- eral's special report on changes to the Greenbelt and the integrity commissioner's report are clear and indisputable," the statement said. "The Greenbelt carve-out exercise was flawed, hasty, Supporters of Stop Sprawl rally outside the riding office of Ontario Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy in Pickering on Aug. 13. They're now calling on Premier Doug Ford to return the land removed from the Greenbelt. Andrew Francis Wallace photo ADVOCATES CALL ON PREMIER TO RETURN LAND See ‘THE’, page 10 KRISTEN CALIS KCalis@durhamregion.com NEWS YOU CAN USE DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX BY 7 A.M. SIGN UP FOR THE MORNING UPDATE AT START THE DAYOFF RIGHT WITH IMPORTANTUPDATES: TRAFFIC, WEATHER, SCHOOL CLOSURES ANDBUS CANCELLATIONS DURHAMREGION.COM /NEWSLETTER du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 4 Healthy Living at Parkland At Parkland, our team of Great People take pride in providing exceptional accommodations, service and care. Join us forWorld Heart Day to explore healthy living and celebrate active lifestyles. Experience the flavours of Parkland and Chef Robert’s heart-healthy recipes, along with our wellness programming and local entertainment. Date:Friday, September 29 th Time:11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Location:Parkland Ajax | 3 Rossland RdW, Ajax experienceparkland.com/ajax 3 Rossland RdW, Ajax ON L1Z 0V1 RSVP today to Lorraine or Renee at 905-424-9369 5 | Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m IndependentLiving |AssistedLiving |RespiteSuites 1880 Glengrove Road, Pickering (905) 831-2088 |vivalife.ca Whetheryou’rekeepingfitinourV!VAfit Studio, celebratingwithfriendsinourpubPints!or enjoying a deliciousgourmetmeal,atV!VARetirementCommunities wetakecareofthecookingandcleaningsoyoucanenjoy what matters most – precious time with good friends doingwhatmakesyousmile.Contact Tausha or Diana: (905) 831-2088 or pickering@vivalife.ca DELICIOUSLY AUTUMN PRIVATE TOUR EVENT September18–22 | ByAppointmentOnly Immerse yourself in the enchanting flavours of fall and depart withabeautifullycurated,fall-themedbasket.Butthat’snotall! You’llbeenteredintoadrawforachancetowin$1000*tobe appliedtowardsyourmonthlyrental.Getintouchorscanthe QR code above. At V!VARetirementCommunities, life is *Conditions apply. There were no injuries after a fire tore through and destroyed a home in Greenwood Monday night. Pickering Fire Services received a call just after 8 p.m. of a fully engulfed fire on Greenwood Road on Sept. 4. "The house was lost," said Pickering's deputy fire Chief Nigel Robinson. "We don't have a dollar figure right now." Six vehicles were on scene and the fire was knocked down by 9:45 p.m. "There was an individu- al home but was fortunate- ly not in the dwelling dur- ing the fire," Robinson said. Right now, the cause and origin are still under investigation. Robinson reminded res- idents of the importance of working smoke alarms and a home escape plan. He said residents can contact Pickering Fire Services for assistance in selecting alarms and making a plan. FIRE DESTROYS GREENWOOD HOME NEWS CALL CAME IN AROUND 8 P.M. ON MONDAY, SEPT. 4 Pickering Fire Services attended a fully engulfed fire on Monday, Sept. 4 in Greenwood. This photo is of a previous fire in Pickering. Metroland file photo KRISTEN CALIS KCalis@durhamregion.com Those old enough to re- member will recall having a cup of coffee or breakfast in the ground floor of the old Genosha Hotel. Soon, you'll be able to munch on some Church's Texas Chicken instead. The chicken franchise will be opening up its sec- ond location in Oshawa, af- ter a Church's opened near Ontario Tech/Durham Col- lege at 2061 Simcoe St. N. over the last few years. The new location is right at the corner of King Street East and Mary Street — 70 King St. E., to be exact. It's under construction at the moment, but the sig- nage is already up and prominent. Church's opened its first Durham location back in 2019 in Whitby at Dundas and Thickson roads. At that time, durhamre- gion.com wrote that Church's wanted to extend across Canada, with 20 to 25 locations over the next two years. CHURCH'S TEXAS CHICKEN OPENING IN DOWNTOWN OSHAWA TIM KELLY tkelly@durhamregion.com A new Church's Texas Chicken franchise will soon be opening in downtown Oshawa at the corner of King Street East and Mary Street. The location, in a designated heritage building, is part of the redevelopment of the historic Genosha Hotel. Tim Kelly/Metroland FOOD AND DRINK du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 6 ABOUT US This newspaper, published every Thursday, is a division of the Metroland Media Group Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Torstar Corporation. The Metroland family of newspapers is comprised of more than 70 community publica- tions across Ontario. This newspaper is a member of the National NewsMedia Council. Complainants are urged to bring their concerns to the attention of the newspaper and, if not satis- fied, write The National News Media Council, Suite 200, 890 Yonge St., Toronto, ON M4W 2H2. Phone: 416-340-1981 Web: www.mediacouncil.ca newsroom@durhamregion.com facebook.com/newsdurham @newsdurham WHO WE ARE Publisher and Chief Executive Officer Neil Oliver Vice President, Editorial Lee Ann Waterman Metroland Editor-in-Chief Paul Berton Managing Editor Mike Lacey Director of Advertising Tanya Pacheco Director Distribution Jeff Therrien Director Creative Services Paul Gostlin CONTACT US Ajax/Pickering News Advertiser Phone: 905- 579-4407 Newsroom: 905-215-0462 Sales: 905-215-0424 Classifieds: 1-800-263-6480 Fax: 905-579-2238 Web: www.durhamregion.com Letters to the editor All letters must be fewer than 320 words and include your name and telephone number for verification purposes. We reserve the right to edit, condense or reject letters. Published letters will appear in print and/or online at durhamregion.com Delivery For all delivery inquiries, please call 905-683-5117. Amid all the turmoil and confusion at last Wednesday's open house event at the Whitby Cen- tennial Building on the proposed homeless shelter at 1635 Dundas St. E., it's worth trying to find out what will, and won't be a part of the plan. Residents and business- people who live near the former longtime nursing home, which opened on the site in 1967 but shut in 2022 after the tragic death of 34 seniors from COVID-19 in November-December 2020, are upset and concerned about a number of issues surrounding the revelation that a shelter will be com- ing. Many said at the open house, which deteriorated into some heated conversa- tions including several councillors bickering with each other over details about how information is being delivered in the com- munity (or not), that they felt side-swiped by the deci- sion. Others said they wished they had been con- sulted before the Region of Durham went ahead and purchased the site for $13.7M in early August from a developer who had bought it back in January 2023 from the original own- ers for $8M. It even involved a man physically threatening both Mayor Elizabeth Roy and Reg. Coun. Maleeha Shahid. Neither politician was harmed as security blocked the man before he could get to the representa- tives. Roy released a state- ment a day after the meet- ing saying: "I am deeply concerned by the beha- viour of some attendees (Wednesday evening), which included yelling, physical intimidation, and offensive comments about people experiencing home- lessness and members of council." Let's take a look at what we know and what those in the know have to say about the project: THE DECISION TO PURCHASE Regional staff was actu- ally given the go-ahead in a confidential session June 14, by unanimous council vote, to negotiate a deal to purchase 1635 Dundas St. E. The price was not known at the time and Mayor Eliz- abeth Roy and Reg. Coun. Rhonda Mulcahy were ab- sent from the meeting, though regional council- lors Steve Yamada, Chris Leahy and Maleeha Shahid all voted in favour as did re- gional councillors from other municipalities. Mul- cahy's father-in-law Joseph Mulcahy Sr. died that morning Mulcahy said, so she could not attend the meeting. Roy said she was absent due to the birth of a grandchild. At a June 28 Regional council meeting, just two Whitby regional council- lors voted on the final deci- sion to purchase the prop- erty as regional council- lors Shahid and Mulcahy were absent -- Shahid be- cause she was celebrating Eid, one of the most holy days on the Muslim calen- dar, and Mulcahy because she was receiving knee sur- gery that day at Lakeridge Health Oshawa. Roy was at the meeting but left at 12:05 p.m. to attend a graduation ceremony for a family member at Dunbarton High School In Pickering. In the final vote, Leahy voted yes on the purchase, while Yamada was the lone regional councillor to vote no. Negotiations between Regional staff and the property owner took place after that point and didn't wrap up until early August when the purchase price of $13.7M was revealed. It should be noted 1635 Dundas St. E. is NOT a Town of Whitby purchase but a Region of Durham purchase and the facility will be owned, operated and managed by the Region of Durham, not the Town of Whitby. As such, local Whitby councillors did not vote on the issue and had no say in its purchase. RESIDENTS' CONCERNS • At the open house on Aug. 30, residents raised many concerns, including safety, crime, and, above all a lack of consultation with the community before the decision was made to purchase the property or to go ahead with a homeless shelter. "Why didn't we have an opportunity to be con- sulted before this decision was made?" was a question that was heard from sever- al speakers who addressed Mayor Elizabeth Roy. Regional chief adminis- trative officer Elaine Bax- ter-Trahir told residents all the feedback received at the open house would be taken in by Regional em- ployees and assessed. Residents had issues with the real estate pur- chase transaction process, but whenever govern- ments purchase or even move to expropriate prop- erty for purposes covered under the Municipal Act, such transactions take place in closed session for legal and competitive rea- sons. "Whenever you en- croach on a residential space, it is a prerequisite that you consult the resi- dents, to get their con- cerns. That was not done," said one resident, to loud applause. "Our property taxes are going to go up, and our property values are going to go down," he said. "I'm looking to move right now ... by housing these folks you're providing an envi- ronment for them to con- tinue negative behaviour. Durham police better hire a bunch more cops," he said. Samranjit Singh, who lives near Thickson and Dundas, said he was sur- prised about the plan. "We moved to Whitby because of less homeless- ness and because of less crime. It now feels slightly less reassuring. The com- munity would have said No," he said. WHAT SERVICES WILL THE FACILITY PROVIDE Lisa McIntosh, director of income, employment and homeless support at the Region of Durham is the point person on 1635 Dundas St. E. She answered some key questions about residents' concerns and what to pos- sibly expect: • Initial emergency shel- ter, there will be enough space to allow people to stay indoors. We're really modernizing it for the homelessness crisis and opioid crisis that we're fac- ing right now. We're bring- ing people together and finding out what people are asking for. "I think the initial fear people are feeling is not having every bit of infor- mation about how it will roll out is fuelling fear for a lot of people, but if we want to engage, it happens now as we develop the space in a really safe way with com- munity partners and our team to become actively in- volved in coming up with solutions if problems arise." In a separate interview, Roy, who is also chair of the Region's Health and Social Services Committee, said it's possible the shelter, which will begin with 45/46 residents some time this fall, not "300 people" as she said some people are being told. She said those who will be living in the shelter will be those who "want to be housed" and she said the Region of Durham has been working for years to "find facilities" to meet the growing need for homeless shelters and affordable housing. She pointed to a development in Beaverton in Brock Township, Ritson Road School in Oshawa, which is in the preconsul- tation stage and 1635 Dun- das St. E., in Whitby as all part of the plan. "We have heard there could be mental health support, employment ser- vices, community space as well too," she said. There will be other op- portunities to engage, and likely a Town Hall-style meeting that Whitby will host in the coming week with Regional staff invited to present information at. More information and up- dates can be found at your- voice.durham.ca/helpad- dresshomelessness. RESIDENTS RAISE CONCERNS OVER PROPOSED SHELTER TIM KELLY tkelly@durhamregion.com NEWS Region of Durham CAO Elaine Baxter-Trahir, in white pants, Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy, in white top, Ward 4 Coun. Victoria Bozinovski, second from right, and Durham Commissioner of Health and Social Services Stella Danos-Papaconstantinou, right, listened as a resident asked a question and made a comment at a Wednesday night open house. The meeting was to gather input on the Region's purchase of 1635 Dundas St. E., to become a homeless shelter. Tim Kelly/Metroland 7 | Pi c k e r i n g N e w s A d v e r t i s e r | P | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m CANADIAN TIRE PICKERING 1735 Pickering Pkwy www.canadiantire.ca STORE 905-686-2308 AUTO SERVICE 905-686-2309 Fri., Sep. 15 to Thur., Sep. 21, 2023 CANADA’S GARAGE TMGARARRGEAATCANADCCADD’SAA G CLEARANCE ON SELECTED WINTER TIRESSAVEUP TO 40%** SAVE $100 Sale $79.99 Reg $179.99 Air fryer 3.5L 43-0132 SAVE 75% Sale $149.99 Reg $599.99 10 pc cookware set 142-7071 Fall Mums & Planters from $20.99 - $27.99. Add Fall Colour to Your Garden. Selections vary by store. DEAL OF THE WEEK DEAL OF THE WEEK SAVE 50% Sale $74.99 Reg $149.99 SAVE 20% Sale $19.99-$31.99 Reg $24.99-$39.99 SAVE 20% Sale $25.99-$34.99 Reg $32.99-$39.99 MAXIMUM 1/2 in drive torque wrench 50-250 lbs 58-9399 Golf green lawn fertilizer 6 or 12 kg bag 59-2577 NitroGROW premium lawn fertilizer 159-0171 2-WEEK BIG TRUCK TIRE SALE WEEK 1 TOP RATED:FUELTEST TOP RATED:FUELTEST ALL-TERRAIN T/A KO2 WEATHERGRIP RIDGETREK SAVE$50◊WHEN YOU BUY 4 WITHINSTANT REBATE‡ SAVE 20 %◊ SAVE 25 %◊ ROAD/OFFROADRATED95.7/92.4^ ROADRATED92.2^ ROAD/OFFROADRATED95.8/91.1^ TOP RATED:DRYTEST TOP RATED:COMFORT TOP RATED:WETTEST DEFENDER LTX M/S ELIMINATOR X-TRAILA/T DISCOVERER AT3 4S SAVE 25 %◊ SAVE 25 %◊ ROAD/OFFROADRATED99.2/99.6^ ROAD/OFFROADRATED95.8/99.3^ ROADRATED99.2^ SAVE$70◊WHEN YOU BUY 4 WITHINSTANT REBATE‡ NEW TOTALTERRAIN APX/APL DESTINATION A/T2 SCORPION WEATHERACTIVE $1001 Bonus CT Money® SAVE$70◊WHEN YOU BUY 4 WITH INSTANT REBATE‡ SAVE$50◊WHEN YOU BUY 4 WITH INSTANT REBATE‡ WHENYOU BUYASETOF4 WE’VE GOT THE BRANDS YOU CAN TRUST Visit VACATION INSPIRATION STARTS HERE Start planning your dream vacation with hand-pickedtravel deals and inspiration just for Canadians du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Pi c k e r i n g N e w s A d v e r t i s e r | P | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 8 @cityofpickering Weekly Community Page September 14 pickering.ca Date Wednesday,September20 Time 6:30-9:00pm(presentationbeginsat7:00pm) Location ChesnutHillDevelopmentsRecreation ComplexBanquetHall,West&EastSalon 1867ValleyFarmRoad Pickering,ON L1V3Y7 Notice of Open House Meeting Whites Road & Granite Court TheCityhasreceivedapplicationsforOfficialPlan Amendment(OPA23-004/P)andZoningBy-lawAmendment (A10/23),submittedby1334281OntarioLimited(see locationmapbelow). Theapplicantisproposinga12-storeyresidential condominiumbuilding,containing262dwellingunits.A totalof393parkingspacesareproposed,including65spaces locatedatgradeand328spaceslocatedwithinatwo-level undergroundparkinggarage.Vehicularaccessisproposedon GraniteCourt. Learnmoreandhaveyoursay! WeinviteyoutoattendaPublicOpenHousemeetingto learnmoreabouttheproposeddevelopmentandprovide comments. Forwardanycommentsand/orquestionstoIsabelLima, PlannerII,CityDevelopmentDepartmentat 905.420.4660, ext2053or ilima@pickering.ca. Vacancy on the Accessibility Advisory Committee Questionsrelatedtoapplicationprocesscanbedirectedto theCommitteeCoordinatorat 905.420.4660,ext1849 orby emailing clerks@pickering.ca. TheCityofPickeringencouragescitizenstoparticipateintheir communitybyvolunteeringforoneofourboards,committees ortaskforces.TheAccessibilityAdvisoryCommitteeiscurrently acceptingapplicationsfromcitizenvolunteers AccessibilityAdvisoryCommittee Role:ThemandateoftheAccessibilityAdvisoryCommitteeis tofulfillthedutiesasoutlinedintheAccessibilityforOntarians withDisabilitiesAct,2005 andtoprovideadvicetoCouncil onprograms,policiesandservicesprovidedtopersonswith disabilities. NumberofVacancies:One(1) Awarenessandknowledgeofpotentialbarrierstopublic accessoffacilities,programsandservicestopeoplelivingwith adisabilitywouldbeanasset. ThemajorityoftheCommitteemustbecomprisedof individualslivingwithadisability. Forcandidatesnot livingwithadisability,considerationwillbegiventoother experienceorexpertiseregardingaccessibilityorsupporting peoplewithdisabilities. Whiledisclosingpersonalinformationisoptional,this informationishelpfultotheCityinensuringawell- represented,AODA-compliantcommittee.Anydisclosureyou makeregardingadisabilitywillbemaintainedinconfidence bytheCitypursuanttothe MunicipalFreedomofInformation andProtectionofPrivacyAct. Meetings:ThirdWednesdayofeachmonthat7:00pm. Ifyouareinterestedinbeingconsideredforappointmentto thisCommittee,pleasesubmitanapplicationformwhichis availableat www.pickering.ca/boardsandcommittees. Thedeadlineforsubmittingyourapplicationis Sunday, October1,2023,at11:59pm. AdditionalinformationregardingtheCommitteeisavailable at pickering.ca/boardsandcommittees,orbycontacting TimHiggins,AccessibilityCoordinatorat 905.420.4660ext 3608 oremail thiggins@pickering.ca. Development Application Proposal 875 Kingston Road TheCityhasreceivedapplicationsforOfficialPlanAmendment (OPA23-003P)andZoningBy-lawAmendment(A09-23), submittedbySphereDevelopments(Kingston)GPInc.(see locationmapbelow). Theapplicantisproposingtwo17-storeyresidentialtowers connectedbya5-storeypodium,containing400dwelling unitsand630squaremetresofcommercialspaceatgrade. Learnmoreandhaveyoursay! Date Tuesday,October3 Time 7:00pm Location CityofPickeringYouTubeChannel www.youtube.com/user/SustainablePickering Toregisterasadelegate,visit pickering.ca/delegation,and completetheonlinedelegationform. AnInformationReportwillbeavailableon,orafter, September22. Ifapersonorpublicbodydoesnotmakeanoralsubmission atapublicmeetingormakewrittensubmissionstotheCityof Pickeringbeforetheproposedby-lawispassed,thepersonor publicbody: i) isnotentitledtoappealthedecisionoftheCounciltothe LocalPlanningAppealTribunal ii)maynotbeaddedasapartytothehearingofanappeal beforetheLocalPlanningAppealTribunalunless,inthe opinionoftheBoard,therearereasonablegroundstodoso. Ifyouwishtobenotifiedofthedecisionyoumustmakeawrittenrequest totheCityClerk. Formoreinformationcontact:AmandaDunn,Principal Plannerat 905.420.4660ext1136or adunn@pickering.ca. 9 | Pi c k e r i n g N e w s A d v e r t i s e r | P | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Customer Care Centre 905.683.7575 (24-hour line) customercare@pickering.ca Date Meeting/Location Time Sep18 WaterfrontVisionaryAdvisory Committee Forlocationandmeetingdetailscheck: calendar.pickering.ca/council 7:00pm Sep19 CulturalAdvisoryCommittee Forlocationandmeetingdetailscheck: calendar.pickering.ca/council 7:00pm Sep20 AccessibilityAdvisoryCommittee Meeting Forlocationandmeetingdetailscheck: calendar.pickering.ca/council 7:00pm Upcoming Public Meetings Meetingdetailsaresubjecttochange.PleasevisittheCitywebsite orcall905.683.7575fordetails. ForServicedisruptionnotificationcall1.866.278.9993. Seniors & Persons with Disabilities Snow Clearing Program The winter 2023/2024 application period is September 11 – October 13, 2023. New this year:We have introduced program changes to allow for increased participation for those in need. • Program fee is based on your taxable income and fee schedule is available online. • Program accommodates 750 households; including the hamlets of Brougham, Claremont, Greenwood &Whitevale. • Applicants with proof of permanent physical or cognitive disability will be given priority. • Completed applications can be provided in person or by mail, with all supporting documentation, including a cheque, post-dated to October 13, 2023, and made payable to the City of Pickering, in time to meet the registration deadline of October 13, 2023. Virtual Open Houses ShapingYourCity ConsolidatedZoningBy-lawReview YouareinvitedtojointheCityofPickeringtoreview newtopics aspartoftheConsolidatedZoningBy-law. Date Tuesday,September19 orThursday,September21 Time 7:00-9:00pm Registerat letstalkpickering.ca/zonereview VirtualOpenHouseinvitation willbesentafteryouregister. Community Services | Recreation Guide Your guide to City programs, services, activities and events. Register today for Fall progams.View/download Fall 2023 Guide online or pick up a paper copyata pickering.ca/CityGuide Fall programs will be starting soon.Forwardanycommentsand/orquestionstoIshChowdhury, PlannerII,CityDevelopmentDepartmentat905.420.4660, ext1118 or ichowdhury@pickering.ca. ProposedAmendmenttothePickeringOfficialPlan Theproposedamendmentwillreviseexistingandaddnew policiesrelatedtothereviewofPlanningActapplications torecognizeandreinforcethenewPickeringIntegrated SustainableDesignStandards(ISDS). AnElectronicOpenHousewillbeheldabouttheproposed amendment,withStaffavailabletoreceivecommentsand respondtoanyquestions. ElectronicOpenHouse Date Tuesday,October3 Time 5:30pm-6:30pm Location JointheElectronicOpenHouseonline pickering.ca/ISDS AcopyoftheproposedOfficialPlanAmendmentwillbemade availableattheOfficeoftheCityClerk,locatedatCityHall, andat pickering.ca/ISDS onSeptember14. ThePlanning&DevelopmentCommitteeisholdingan ElectronicStatutoryPublicMeetingtoreceivecommentson theOfficialPlanAmendmentbeforeanydecisionsaremade ontheapplication.AReportpreparedbytheCity DevelopmentDepartmentwillbeavailableonthewebsite andwithintheCommitteeMeetingagenda. DuetotheCouncilChamberdomeroofreplacement,this meetingwillbeheldthroughelectronicparticipation. ElectronicStatutoryPublicMeeting Date Tuesday,October3 Time 7:00pm Location Residentscanparticipatevirtually,orview themeetinglivestreamviatheCityof Pickering’sYouTubechannel. www.youtube.com/@CityPickering/streams T Join the City of Pickering and the Kinsmen & Kinette Club by participating as a parade float or marching band!The deadline for all application submissions is October 4, 2023. pickering.ca/santaclausparade Notice of Statutory Public Meeting Pickering Integrated Sustainable Design Standards Saturday, November 25 Toregisterasadelegate,visit pickering.ca/delegation,and completetheonlinedelegationform.Virtualdelegationsmust registerby12:00pmonSeptember29. PleasenotethatdelegationswillappearbeforetheCommitteeintheorder theyarereceived. Please visit pickering.ca/SnowProgram or contact the Customer Care Centre at 905.683.7575 for details. Last Chance to Register du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Pic k e r i n g N e w s A d v e r t i s e r | P | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 10 opaque and deceptive. None of the Greenbelt lands are required to meet the provincial target of building 1.5 million hous- es." In 2005, the Ontario gov- ernment introduced the Duffins Rouge Agricultur- al Preserve (DRAP) Act to ensure that the agricultur- al and conservation ease- ments in the DRAP could not be released while si- multaneously determi- ning that future develop- ment would proceed only east of West Duffins Creek in a new community called Seaton. This decision and the preservation of lands west of Duffins Creek were reinforced through the passing of the Central Pick- ering Development Plan, which was also repealed in 2022 by the Ford govern- ment. Pickering staff have doc- umented that the provincial housing target for Pickering can be met through housing development in Seaton and in the Pickering City Centre neighbourhood, the state- ment said. Both the Region- al Planning Commissioners of Ontario and the Housing Affordability Task Force have reinforced this through various reports. Environmental Defence also released a statement the same day, stating Ford has tasked his own munici- pal affairs minister, Paul Calandra, with leading an internal "review" of his government's "deceitful, costly and destructive pro- cess." "Shockingly, the way he described the review im- plied that it might actually result in additional parts of the Greenbelt being stripped of protection," the statement said. Environmental Defence said Ontario already has nearly four times as much land designated for devel- opment as the province could plausibly use up over the next 30 years, and in fact removals and settle- ment boundary expansion would slow construction down "by squandering our finite supply of construc- tion equipment, labour and other inputs on houses lo- cated in low-density areas. "There is no path to get- ting us out of this housing shortage, or getting the government out of this scandal that doesn't start with reversing the Green- belt removals and urban boundary expansions in their entirety," it said. Continued from page 3 ‘THE GREENBELT CARVE-OUT EXERCISE WAS FLAWED, HASTY, OPAQUE AND DECEPTIVE’ Oshawa's Thea Asedillo shone among the brightest lights at this year's Canadi- an National Exhibition in Toronto. The 16-year-old singer came first in the CNE's an- nual Rising Star Talent competition, which has been held every summer for the past three decades at the Ex. Thea was crowned as the grand champion this past weekend on the CNE's International Stage inside the Enercare Centre. She was cheered on by a full crowd as she was named tops among more than 150 contestants who battled through 18 days of the fair. Contestants were judged on natural ability, audience appeal, stage presence and quality of their performance in the fi- nal analysis to determine a champion and two run- ners-up. As first-place finisher in the youth category, Thea earned a $2,500 cash prize and bragging rights. Past notable partici- pants in the CNE Rising Star competition include Juno Award-nominated jazz singer Matt Dusk, and top choreographer and dancer Blake McGrath of "So You Think You Can Dance" fame. OSHAWA SINGER WINS CNE RISING STAR TALENT SHOW TIM KELLY tkelly@durhamregion.com Oshawa singer Thea Asedillo, 16, won the Canadian National Exhibition's Rising Star Talent competition in the youth category (for those aged 13 to 21). She was among 150 competitors over the 18 days of the fair. The Rising Star competition has taken place during the past three decades at the CNE. CNE Harrison/Haines photo WHAT'S ON THEA ASEDILLO TOPS LARGE FIELD OF COMPETITORS TO COME FIRST AT 18-DAY EXHIBITION PERFORMANCE CHALLENGE A Pickering councillor is calling out Kevin Ashe for using his strong mayor powers to take control of the 2024 budget process de- spite saying during the 2022 municipal election pe- riod he would not use the powers proposed by the provincial government at the time. But as of July 1 of this year, the Strong Mayors, More Homes Act was put in place, giving mayors of the fastest-growing municipal- ities more power than ever before. Ward 1 city Coun. Lisa Robinson raised her con- cerns with the new budget process during discussions surrounding the 2024 meet- ing calendar at the Sept. 5 executive committee meet- ing. Different from previ- ous years, the calendar does not include the exec- utive committee budget meetings that normally take place before the oper- ating and current budgets go before council. These meetings typically take one day, sometimes two, and councillors sit down with staff and are able to suggest adding in items they want to see included in the budget. "First, I find there will be a lack of accountability," Robinson said. She said there will be limited representation, and a potential for bias by keeping council out of those budget discussions. "By excluding the coun- cil, our strong mayor may miss out on some valuable insights, some ideas and some alternative perspec- tives that could lead to bet- ter budget outcomes in the future," she said. Robinson also posted a YouTube video on her thoughts about the matter. Pickering's director of corporate services and city solicitor Paul Bigioni said since the mayor has decid- ed to use his powers and take control of the budget process, city staff had no choice but to leave the usu- al budget meetings out of the calendar. He noted Ashe had sent a letter to council making them aware of his inten- tion. Ashe said at the meeting the decision was based on a process to have the budget presented to council by February 2024. Council will still get to see the draft budget before it is made public, and will have the opportunity to amend the budget before it is passed. "I would suggest that the budget increase as pro- posed by the mayor in fact be lower than what the budget increase might be by the other councillors, but I can be proven wrong on that at some point in the future," he said. The mayor had given di- rection for using this pow- er in regards to the budget in a memo signed on Aug. 14, directing city staff to prepare a draft 2024 cur- rent and capital budget, in- cluding a nine-year capital forecast. It also asked that the chief administrative of- ficer and the city solicitor provide the mayor with pe- riodic updates on the bud- get, and that the proposed draft budget be provided to each member of council and the city clerk no later than Jan. 30. Ashe has exercised his strong mayor power five times now. Other instances included taking control of organization structure, hiring and dismissing of city staff and the power to establish and dissolve com- mittees. Robinson was the only member who voted against the meeting schedule. Pickering Ward 1 city Coun. Lisa Robinson is questioning Mayor Kevin Ashe's decision to use the strong mayors powers regarding the budget process. Jason Liebregts/Metroland MAYOR CHALLENGED ON STRONG MAYOR POWERS NEWS KRISTEN CALIS KCalis@durhamregion.com MAYOR TO TAKE CONTROL OF BUDGET PROCESS, COUNCIL STILL TO VOTE ON IT 11 | Aja x N e w s A d v e r t i s e r | A | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m SAFETY COVER SALE! Latham mesh safety covers are designed to protect your investment and the ones you made it for... your family. Once installed, the safety cover will help prevent accidental intrusions by children, pets, unwanted critters and debris. 15 year warranty Standard Shade Mesh 20 year warranty Premium Shade Mesh 25 year warranty Maximum Shade Mesh 10% OFF UNTIL THANKSGIVING 1645 Dundas St W Whitby 905-668-7431 • starlingpoolsandspa.com ADVERTORIAL REALFOOD REALOPPORTUNITIES TAKE OVER AN EXISTING M&M FOOD MARKET FRANCHISE IN AJAX M&M Food Market Franchise Opportunity Now Available in Ajax As Fall rolls in and we adjust back to our routine this is a great time to re-evaluate our work-life balance making now the perfect time to consider owning your own business. The kids are now settled back in school, and we resume our lives but with a shift in our attitude towards work. The professional landscape has changed with many Canadians ditching their traditional 9-5 jobs in favour of entrepreneurship.Whether they want the flexibility and balance of self-employment or the rewards and growth that come from ownership, many are looking for new opportunities to build their own business. Franchising combines the benefits of ownership with the proven business model, finely tuned operating procedures, and name recognition of an established brand.As Canadians continue to rethink their relationship with work, franchising is an attractive alternative to starting from scratch. Today, we’re looking for new Franchise Partners who are passionate about M&M Food Market, their local community and ready to grow with a proven brand. Whether you want to own your own business, switch careers, or diversify your investment portfolio, now is the time to consider the benefits of an M&M Food Market franchise. A Strong and Stable Franchise Opportunity M&M Food Market products are sold in nearly 3,000 locations across Canada. Since the first store opened in 1980, M&M Food Market has evolved to adapt to economic downturns, changing consumer tastes, and an increasingly competitive retail environment to emerge as Canada’s largest frozen food retailer. M&M Food Market continues to support their local communities across Canada by providing a smaller, clean, safe environment for customers to shop in and provide an alternative to restaurants as Canadians cooked more meals at home and looked for other ways to celebrate with family and friends while managing their budgets. Innovating to Reflect our Customers’ Needs M&M Food Market is a stable as well as dynamic franchise, proven through accelerated investments in key strategic initiatives.A refreshing, modern store design makes it easier for customers to browse, discover new products, and receive personalized customer service from highly trained Meal Advisors. Innovation is at the heart of the M&M Food Market business.The newly designed and fully-eCommerce enabled M&M website makes ordering online more convenient than ever with the option for in-store or curbside pick-up as well as delivery options available in most communities.The M&M Food Market Rewards program serves up personalized offers to customers based on their shopping behaviour and meal preferences while offering special flyer pricing to members. New customer centric website has the option for Customers to input dietary and other restrictions and discover new products through tailored recommendations. The entire food portfolio has been reformulated and M&M Food Market is the only national food retailer in Canada with absolutely no artificial colours, flavours and sweeteners in any of their almost 500 products. Supporting Franchise Partners Every Step of the Way M&M Food Market provides the tools, training, and support needed to achieve success with the brand. All Franchise Partners go through comprehensive classroom and in-store training prior to operating their own location. Cloud-based daily training programs, operational manuals and guidelines, ongoing development opportunities, and regular calls with local Area Managers ensure Franchise Partners always have a place to turn to for help. M&M Food Market has also taken significant steps to minimize the impact of supply chain and labour market disruptions.While these challenges have affected every business to some degree, M&M Food Market has been able to keep products on the shelves and available to customers by working closely with suppliers and managing frozen inventory to reduce the risk of shortages. A Stable and Resilient Franchise Ready for a Changing Future We’ve changed quite a bit over the past few years in the way we live our lives, and there’s no doubt that there will be many more challenges ahead. If you’re ready to make a change in your life, now’s the time to consider an M&M Food Market franchise. For more information about the opportunity available in Ajax, please contact Liz Riley Director, Franchising at lizr@mmfoodmarket.com or 905-814-2420. du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 12 For a list of acceptable material, visit durham.ca/CurbsideGiveawayCURBSIDE GIVEAWAY If you require this information in an accessible format, please contact 311 (within Regional limits) or 1-800-372-1102. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Residents are invited to place unwanted items in good condition at the curb for anyone to pick up. Label the items FREE and at the end of the Giveaway Day, return unclaimed items to your home. Aservice now offered at the Pickering Public Li- brary means local resi- dents won't have to travel far to access it. Community members can now access an Ontario Disability Support Pro- gram (ODSP) caseworker until the end of the year at the Central Library. The ODSP is a means- tested government-funded program designed to help people with disabilities manage their living ex- penses and basic needs. Each week a casework- er from the Oshawa office will be on-site at the Cen- tral Library, One The Es- planade, to assist clients. This will break the barrier of Pickering residents needing to otherwise trav- el to Oshawa to the head of- fice. Caseworkers will be visiting the branch on Fri- days from 1:30 to 4 p.m. and seeing clients at the com- munity table in the lobby. No appointments are nec- essary. For more information visit pickeringlibrary.ca. DISABILITY CASEWORKER AT PICKERING LIBRARY NEWS The Pickering Central Library will host an Ontario Disability Support Program caseworker onsite on Friday afternoons. Metroland file photo 13 | Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Fall Decor and more.... GARDEN MUM SPECIALS 12”2 for $25 or $13.99 ea Jumbos $15.99 ea Gourds, FANCY Pumpkins and Straw Bales Available! 905-436-9204 • www.witzkesgreenhouses.ca OPEN MONDAY 10:00 TO 4:00 TUESDAY TO SATURDAY 9:30 TO 5:00 SUNDAY 10:00 TO 4:00 @witzkesgreenhouses 1621 PEBBLESTONE ROAD (AT TRULLS ROAD), COURTICE Follow us on Instagram for our newest arrivals du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 14 The Saint John Paul II C.S.S. ad that appeared in the Ajax/Pickering and Scarborough Mirror newspapers on Sept 7 th,2023contained an error. Saint John Paul II C.S.S. has cancelled the Grade 8 Parent/Caregiver Information Night - IB Program Open House on Wednesday September 27, 2023, at 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. 685 Military Trail, Scarborough, ON, M1E 4P6 Phone:416-393-5531 We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. The Saint John Paul II C.S.S. Grade 8 Parent/Caregiver Information Night - General Open House - is on Wednesday Oct. 11, 2023 at 7 p.m. CORRECTION NOTICE A Pickering man with a message to share was able to get it across to 40,000 peo- ple by travelling nearly 19,000 kilometres across five provinces from March to June, and he's not fin- ished yet. Keynote speaker and author of "Empty Your Backpack" Sam Demma de- livered 87 speeches from Ontario to British Colum- bia in just 88 days, sharing his message about positivi- ty and achieving goals. "Overall, it was amaz- ing," Demma said in an in- terview, while he unwound after the trip but was pre- paring for the next part of his journey. Demma and a team of three — videographer Cross Novia, driver and lo- gistics specialist Nina De- Gagne and communica- tions manager Aaliyan Khan — jumped in his late grandfather's 2009 Pontiac Montana and travelled 18,851 kilometres to share messages to youth about mental health, anti-bully- ing and kindness. "We reached a lot of ru- ral communities that don't have access to these types of experiences," he said. "We didn't just stay along the highway. Instead of east and west, we did a lot of north, south driving." By encouraging youth to "empty your backpack," he's telling them to let go of negativity. "After the presentation, Iwas inspired to be a better person and do what is good for myself," a youth who heard Demma speak at the Manitoba Youth Centre wrote in a testimonial. Demma was pleased to read a number of good re- views from that particular stop. "I was so nervous about this engagement because I had never spoken at a simi- lar format before," Demma said. Demma got the idea for the project following a com- ment by a Grade 10 student watching his Instagram Live — a video and chat on his Instagram page. The student wanted more fol- lowers on Instagram so other kids would stop bul- lying him. Demma has stayed in contact with the teen, and wanted to let oth- ers know they should keep their backpacks empty and their imaginations full. Before the tour, Demma released his debut book "Empty your Backpack," in which he shares the mes- sage that your dreams are within reach, and the be- liefs you carry and the ac- tions you take determine whether you will achieve them. His book has reached 3,000 people so far and is available online through all major book retailers. The next leg began on Sept. 4 with a speech at Queen's University, and while Demma plans to de- liver the same message, he might ease up on the amount of talks. "Eighty-seven was a lot, and it was a great learning experience but maybe next time it will be a little less," Demma said. After the first leg, Dem- ma donated $11,000 to jack- .org, one of Canada's lead- ing mental health chari- ties. Tour bookings and more on Demma and his book can be found at emptyyour- backpack.ca. SAM DEMMA SENDS POSITIVE MESSAGE TO YOUTH Sam Demma, a Pickering-based keynote speaker and author, handed a cheque for $11,000 to Natalie Russell, the director of individual giving and supporter relations at jack.org. Demma donated a portion of the funds he earned on his Empty Your Backpack Speaking Tour. Cross Novia photo KRISTEN CALIS KCalis@durhamregion.com NEWS Support the local businesses that support your local newspaper. PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR HOUSE IS 15 | Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Callorvisitourwebsitetolearnmore! 1-844-727-8679 |Chartwell.com CHARTWELL PICKERING CITY CENTRE 1801 Valley Farm Rd., Pickering CHARTWELL HARWOOD 240OldHarwoodAve.,Ajax CHARTWELL COLONIAL 101ManningRd.,Whitby CHARTWELL WYNFIELD 431 Woodmount Dr., Oshawa CHARTWELL BOWMANVILLE CREEK 105 Queen St., Bowmanville Call or visit our website to 1-844-727-8679 |Chart CHARTWELL PICKERING CITY CENTRE 1801 Valley Farm Rd.,Pickering CHARTWELL HARWOOD 240 Old Harwood Ave.,Ajax CHARTWELL COLONIAL 101 Manning Rd.,Whitby CHARTW 431 Woo CHARTW BOWMA 105 Que Don’t miss our upcoming event – it’s the perfect time to ask us your questions about: Dining and activities Flexible care and support Pricing information Trial Stays Drop in – no RSVP required! SEPT.22&23|10AM – 4PM DURHAM BASKETBALL BLUESDURHAM BASKETBALL BLUES HAMMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMMMMMMMMMMMAMINTRODUCING... #PLAYBLUESBASKETBALL WWW.DURHAMBLUESBASKETBALL.COM GIR L S &BOY S SMALLBALLHOUSE LEAGUEREP TEAMS A Stouffville man is facing charges af- ter multiple stolen vehicles were found in an Ajax auto shop. According to Durham police, on Aug. 17 officers from the West Division responded to a shop in the Fairall Street and Westney Road area after a stolen vehicle had been tracked to the shop. Police executed a search warrant and recovered eight stolen vehicles, they said. Police report four of the vehicles had been chopped up into parts. The estimated val- ue of the recovered vehicles is $400,000 to $500,000. A 60-year-old Stouffville man is facing multiple charges including nine counts of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, four counts of mischief/dam- age to property over $5,000 and unlawfully possessing an automobile master key. He was released with conditions. STOLEN VEHICLE TRACKED TO AJAX AUTO SHOP: DURHAM POLICE REKA SZEKELY rszekely@durhamregion.com CRIME A 21-year-old Whitby man has been charged after police allege he arranged for services from sex professionals and then robbed them. Officers with the Durham police hu- man trafficking unit took the suspect into custody on Aug. 16 following an investiga- tion into the robbery of sex professionals. Police allege that under the guise of pur- chasing sexual services, the suspect ar- ranged to meet with prostitutes at a hotel in Ajax and then robbed them. Fawad Abdalay has been charged with two counts of robbery with an offensive weapon, possession of weapons dangerous and obtaining sexual services for consider- ation. He was released on an undertaking. Durham police also note that a 2013 Su- preme Court decision ruled that Canada's laws in relation to prostitution were consid- ered unconstitutional. The laws changed to provide a layer of safety for those involved in the sex trade, however, the purchase of these services continues to be illegal, say police. "The sex trade is still considered a high- risk lifestyle," police warn. Police are appealing to anyone who may have had contact with the suspect and ex- perienced similar incidents to contact in- vestigators. Anyone with new information about this incident is asked to call 905-579- 1520, extension 5230. WHITBY MAN CHARGED AFTER PROSTITUTES ROBBED AT AJAX HOTEL Police are looking for suspects after $200,000 worth of cash, jewelry and house- hold items were stolen during a home in- vasion in Oshawa on Sept. 4, Durham po- lice report. Officers were called to a home on Raike Drive, off Britannia Avenue East in the city's north end, at roughly 3:30 a.m. on Monday. According to police, two men armed with a Taser device and a small black fire- arm forced their way into the home. They handcuffed the home occupants and robbed them. The occupants did not suffer physical injuries. Police searched the area with the K9 unit but did not find the culprits. The two men were wearing black clothing and ba- laclavas, police said. Anyone with surveillance video of the area is asked to speak with investigators. Call Det.-Const. Peden of the East Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at 1-888- 579-1520, ext. 1605. Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800- 222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durham- regionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward. CASH, JEWELRY STOLEN IN HOME INVASION: POLICE REKA SZEKELY rszekely@durhamregion.com du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 16 • F newest homes k y • G more inFormed f g • F g best mortGaGe rates vg g, plus much more -CALL TODAY!! * FOR UNITS OF LISTINGS SOLD ACCORDING TO A STUDY OF MLS DATA PREPARED BY AN INDEPNDANT AUDITOR FOR REAL ESTATE STATISTICS FOR 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022. WEST REALTY INC.,Brokerage Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated FRANK LEO & ASSOCIATES FREESERVICE PROFESSIONALBUYER Broker Children’ & Canadian Cancer #1 RE/MAX TEAM IN THE GTA * #1 TEAM IN TORONTO (CENTRAL, EAST, AND WEST COMBINED) BY UNITS OF LISTINGS SOLD FOR ALL BROKERS AND SALES REPRESENTATIVES FOR ALL COMPANIES* Sponsor of Children’s Miracle Network Canadian Cancer Foundation We Live And Work In Your Area! GET MORE FOR YOUR PROPERTY! Let Us Show You How! 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SOLD SOLD SOLD AMAZING VALUE Private Backyard Steps To Lake $989 , 0 0 0 17 | Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 18 TABLETATTBLETTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTBLBLBLBLBLBLBLBLBLBLBLBBLBLBLBLLBBLBBLBBBLBLBLBLBLBLLBBLBLBEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE 699 ea 500 g SPICE IT UP! Our seasonal star is back! Our Pumpkin Spice Loaf Cake is baked fresh by us with pure pumpkin, dried cranberries, and cozy spices, then topped with roasted pumpkin seeds. Grab one while you can – they’re only here for a limited time. ON NOW AT THE BRICK! SAVING YOU MORE For more details shop instore or online at thebrick.com EFW-WMAC Meeting #47 EFW-WMAC Meeting #49 The Energy from Waste-Waste Management Advisory Committee (EFW-WMAC) Meeting #49 will be held on Tuesday, September 26, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The public may view the EFW-WMAC meeting via live streaming online at durham.ca. For more information, please contact The Regional Municipality of Durham, Works Department: Melodee Smart 1-800-372-1102 ext. 3560 EFW-WMAC@durham.ca DurhamYorkWaste.ca durham.ca If you require this information in an accessible format, please contact 1-800-372-1102 ext. 3560. PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER In just seven months, the City of Pickering states it has lost nearly $1.9 million in development charges rev- enues as a result of the pro- vincial government's Bill 23. The More Homes Built Faster Act has eliminated development charges (DCs) on non-profit, affordable and select attainable homes, with reductions of up to 25 per cent for family- friendly, purpose-built rent- al units. DCs pay for capital infra- structure, such as such as roads, transit and commu- nity centres. In a report presented to Pickering's executive com- mittee on Tuesday, Sept. 5, city staff revealed that as of July 31, $1,881,639 of DC reve- nues have been lost due to the mandatory phase in of the DC fees as a result of the government's bill. The city was required to reduce its DC fee set in its bylaw passed in July 2022 to 80 per cent of the maximum rate. As of July 12 of this year, the city can now charge 85 per cent of the maximum DC fee. The city will be al- lowed to charge the maxi- mum DC fee in July 2026. The parks and recreation category has seen the larg- est financial loss in terms of lost revenue. For the first seven months of 2023, this category has lost $1,337,393 of DC revenues due to Bill 23, which equates to 71 per cent of the total loss.The preliminary estimate for the 2024 DC loss is around $2.5 million.Pickering is currently in a high-growth phase, and staff says it will continue to be in this phase over the next 10 to 15 years. The city is expected to hit a population target of 138,000 by 2032. With high population growth comes higher de- mand for city growth-relat- ed infrastructure. "The city has a very ag- gressive and correspond- ingly expensive capital fore- cast plan and requires every DC dollar to fund these growth projects," the report says. "The city continues to hope that the province will make us 'whole' and assist the city in funding this crit- ical revenue loss." NEARLY $1.9 MILLION IN DEVELOPMENT CHARGES LOST KRISTEN CALIS KCalis@durhamregion.com COUNCIL PICKERING CALLS ON PROVINCE TO MAKE MUNICIPALITY WHOLE The losses in development charges so far for 2023 were presented to the executive committee on Tuesday, Sept. 5. Metroland file photo 19 | Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Explore. Learn. Experience. Come explore the exciting world of clean energy. Learn more at opg.com/expo Ever wonder how electricity is made or what Ontario’s electric future looks like? Join us and our partners for a FREE family event and explore the exciting world of clean energy. Date: Saturday, September 16, 2023 Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Location: Darlington Energy Complex 1855 Energy Dr., Clarington, ON 16 PowerPowerCommunity To help our community members in need,non-perishable food donations are encouraged. The event will have accessible parking and access. du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 20 Adorn your Home with Quality Windows and Doors 119ConsumersDrive,Whitby AdornHome.ca Made in Our Whitby Factory! • Window • Doors • Custom Glass Call us Today! 905-665-9565 www.UrbanNatureStore.ca Mississauga West 3055 Dundas St.West Mississauga, 289-999-5477 Etobicoke 100 The East Mall Etobicoke, 416-491-1417 North York 900 Don Mills Rd. Toronto, 416-646-2439 Buy 1 Get1Free* on your next bag of Wild Bird Seed *Free second bag is of equal or lesser value, up to $25.00 retail value. Limit 1 per customer. Valid until October 1, 2023. Embrace Autumn Splendor Through the Joy of Wild Birding Pickering 609 Kingston Rd 905-231-0459 Oshawa 370 Taunton Road E 905-674-6168 Every time the wind blows from the north these days, it's bringing song- birds. Those myriad flocks that flooded through months ago are pumped up with hormones and eager to breed in Canada's vast woods and wilderness are retreating to the tropics, taking their offspring with them. Instead of singing now, they save their strength for those long, ex- hausting flights. So, if we can't hear them, and the trees they're feed- ing in haven't yet lost their leaves, witnessing this sec- ond great migration takes a bit of strategy, focus and luck. Who would want to miss such a magnificent natural event? My husband and I have figured out a way to tap in- to the phenomena right from home. We call it "hap- py hour," the perfect way to end a busy day. Late in the afternoon, as the lowering sun warms the west side of our spruce hedge, we sit on the balcony, binoculars in hand, and watch what comes by. Cardinals, rob- ins, orioles, blue jays and waxwings keep zipping in for mulberries and black cherries, the usuals. But warblers, vireos and fly- catchers often drop by as well, fuelling up on insects before taking off into the night. It can be a challenge rec- ognizing favourite species in their subdued fall plum- age, designed for camou- flage and safety rather than flash. But it's lots of fun getting reacquainted with them, whether adults and juveniles. Male Cape May warblers are just as stunning with their black- on-gold-streaked breasts, even without their signa- ture bay-coloured cheek patches. Bay-breasted and magnolia warblers still have bright wing bars. Black-throated green war- blers always keep their yel- low face, while juvenile chestnut-sideds look strangely bald with their yellow-green caps and backs and no rufous any- where. It's interesting to watch where they're feeding. Cape Mays are often high in the spruces, which makes sense because they nest near the tops of coni- fers. We were surprised to spot bay-breasted warblers eating mulberries since yellow-rumped warblers are best known for supple- menting their diet with fruit, enabling them to stay north longer. "If they're busily feeding all day, fattening up for their epic nighttime flights, when do migrating birds sleep?" we asked ourselves. An online visit to the Cor- nell Lab of Ornithology's vast library and resources revealed surprising re- search using the latest technological wizardry. Some birds take nine-sec- ond power naps, apparent- ly getting all the rest and repair they need in brief snatches, and good REM sleep. And some birds, be- lieve it or not, indulge in "uni-hemispherical slow- wave sleep" — keeping one eye open for danger and half their brain alert while the other half is deep in dreamland. Even while fly- ing. Nature queries: mcar- ney1490@gmail.com or 905-725-2116. 'HAPPY HOUR' HAS DIFFERENT MEANING FOR COLUMNIST The Cape May warbler is one of many songbirds you can see these days as it and many others fuel up to fly south and avoid the cold weather. Amazingly, notes columnist Margaret Carney, some take the briefest of power naps - nine seconds. Even more remarkably, some can turn half their brain off to rest, even while flying. Mike McEvoy photo OPINION MARGARET CARNEY NOTES SOME MIGRATING BIRDS TAKE BRIEF POWER NAPS, OTHERS CAN PARTLY SLEEP EVEN WHILE FLYING MARGARET CARNEY Column 21 | Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Our Cancer Campaign has surpassed 90% of its $20 million goal! Join thousands of Durham Region residents who have stepped up to transform the way cancer care is delivered in our community. Give today to help fund new equipment and research that will change the course of this disease. Donate at www.OurCancer.ca or call the Foundation at 905-433-4339. It'syour timetobe partof something remarkable. Our Cancer Campaign du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 22 2-DAY DELIVERY* *some exclusions apply Delivered by Metroland Parcel Services with2U4Unow.com 2U4Unow.com GETTHEHOTTESTFLAVOUR SHIPPEDTOYOURDOOR. BUYNOW METAMOON AVAILABLENOW! FOLLOWUSON INSTAGRAMFORGREAT OFFERS@2U4UNOW FREEDELIVERY INTRODUCTORYOFFER! $34.99 PERCASEOF12 23 | Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m SPONSORED BY GETAWAYINSURED THISCONTENTWASFUNDEDANDAPPROVEDBYTHEADVERTISER. getawayinsured.ca/apply Travel is officially back! Past clients and many anew are keeping our phones ringing, a sound so verymissed during those pandemic years. Snowbirds are spreading their wings again heading down south, couples are back on adventures across the globe, and many are travelling short trips to see family and friends. 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We are excited for our new quoting function that is now user friendly and allows 2 or more people to apply at once. Growth means we have hired new agents to get back to you in an even more timelymanner. We do prefer to obtain this information and call you on the sameday or within 1 business day to ensure we are giving you the correct price.Trust the process and we’ll shop for the best product for you! By:JasonMelnick, ManagingDirector, GetAwayInsured GoldenAgeInsuranceInc. Travel Insurance Brokers at GetAwayInsured are Here for You! du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 24 A large parcel of land in Clarington has become the centre of an ongoing scan- dal as critics call foul over the Greenbelt land swap. Doug Ford's provincial government is facing criti- cism for its handling of a recent land deal that saw multiple parcels of land re- moved from the Greenbelt to allow for development, including an 86-acre lot at the corner of Nash and Hancock roads owned by Peter Tanenbaum of Nash Road Developments. "The land coming out, to my mind, is not hugely controversial," said Cla- rington Mayor Adrian Fos- ter of the parcel, which is surrounded by develop- ment and services and has been the subject of past re- quests for removal from the Greenbelt by both the municipality and Region of Durham. "If you need to look at a piece to come out of the Greenbelt, this probably fits what you'd be looking for, but certainly the way it came out is the controver- sy," Foster continued. "I know the province was trying to go in and make the process easier, so it didn't get bogged down at various councils ... but this was flawed." Recent reports have called the entire Greenbelt land swap into question, saying it was mishandled by the Ford government and favoured certain de- velopers to the tune of in- creased land value of more than $8 billion. The report listed a mysterious "Mr. X" as having been hired by Ta- nenbaum to help convince the government to remove the Nash Road parcel from the Greenbelt, and cites various meetings and per- suasion methods used de- spite the individual not be- ing registered as a lobby- ist. The Toronto Star has identified Mr. X as former Clarington Mayor John Mutton, now president of Municipal Solutions, al- though Mutton has denied the allegations. "I'm not a lobbyist. I have a development servic- es company where we pro- vide planning, engineer- ing, and everything," he told the Toronto Star, say- ing he did not know the identity of Mr. X. "I've nev- er been contracted to do any type of lobbying to get any lands out of the Green- belt." Mutton did not respond to a request for comment from www.durhamregion- .com. Mutton has a colourful political history in Dur- ham Region, having served as mayor of Clarington from 2000 to 2006, when he lost his bid for re-election after being charged with domestic violence. Al- though Mutton was later acquitted of the charges, the allegations were reiter- ated by his ex-wife in 2018, derailing his campaign for Durham Region chair that year. The municipality con- ducted several audits into Mutton's campaign financ- es following his 2006 loss, which were spurred by community complaints. The findings of those au- dits included several al- leged contraventions of campaign finance rules, including improper use of municipal assets for cam- paign purposes. The find- ings led to the creation of new rules around use of municipal property during elections. In a news conference on Sept. 5, Preimier Ford was questioned on Mutton's in- volvement in the Claring- ton land swap. While he did not confirm or deny Mutton was Mr. X, Ford had a blanket message for potential influencers. "This is a message to anyone and advocacy work that any people do, if you don't follow the rules then you're going to be held ac- countable and I encourage the integrity commission- er to hold people account- able that don't follow the rules," he said, noting the government would be con- ducting a review of the en- tire Greenbelt land swap. The integrity commis- sioner report focused on Tanenbaum's relationship with Mr. X, which included a contract that provided a $6,000 per month fee, an ad- ditional $225,000 "Green- belt fee" should the lands be removed from the regu- lation, and a further $775,000 should the lands be granted development approval. Payment based on the success of lobbying efforts is prohibited under Ontario's Lobbyist Regis- tration Act. Mayor Foster said the last activity the municipal- ity has seen on the lands was shortly after Tanen- baum purchased them in 2003, which was prior to the creation of the Green- belt, and that all activity froze as soon as the lands were placed under protec- tion. He said the municipali- ty has not been contacted by Mutton, Tanenbaum or Municipal Solutions re- garding the land, to his knowledge, aside from a brief meeting with Tanen- baum in 2010 or 2011. How- ever, the municipality's planning department has had interactions with Mu- nicipal Solutions on other files over the years. "There have been a number of files where the property owners have hired Municipal Solutions to work on their behalf," said Foster, noting it is not unusual for planning staff to communicate with firms hired by landowners. "Sometimes you need tech- nical expertise that a land- owner may not have so in many cases they will bring in outside help." For his part, Foster said he was friendly with Mutton early in his politi- cal career when they were on council together but has had no direct engage- ment with him for many years. Despite their removal from the Greenbelt, the Nash Road lands remain under agricultural zoning, and future plans remain unclear. Development plans for the lands would be negotiated by a provin- cial facilitator directly with the developer, rather than going through the tra- ditional planning process at the municipal level. While those negotiations are not public, Foster said he hopes a motion passed by Clarington council in December that called on the province to include specific affordable hous- ing and parkland specifica- tions in any future devel- opment will be heeded. "Given the premier's an- nouncement yesterday, we really don't know what will happen," Foster said of the lands, calling himself "de- cidedly ambivalent" on their potential develop- ment. "We have plenty of land in Clarington that could be developed to meet the province's housing targets, so to have this land in or not in isn't really a big deal," he explained. "The province did it this way to get shovels in the ground quicker. I wonder where we would be without all the controversy around the lobbying. I don't know any- one else that's dealing with the questions we are." FUTURE OF FORMER GREENBELT LANDS IN CLARINGTON UNCLEAR MOYA DILLON mdillon@durhamregion.com NEWS FORMER MAYOR JOHN MUTTON IMPLICATED IN INFLUENCE SCANDAL Steve Clark, former minister of municipal affairs and housing, visited Clarington in November to announce a review of Greenbelt lands. Clark recently resigned following allegations of impropriety by the Ford government regarding the handling of the land swap, which included an 86-acre parcel of land (pictured right) at Nash Road and Hancock Road in Clarington. Susie Kockerscheidt/Metroland Jason Liebregts/Metroland 25 | Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 | 26 *The per cent discount is based on the per cent off the newsstand rate.These offers are for a 6-month term. Credit card payment is due upfront at $199+ tax for 7-day service, and $99+ tax for Saturday service.This offer includes Starweek magazine and access to thestar.com. If you choose to cancel your account, or your subscription is in arrears, your access to thestar.com will be discontinued. View our privacy policy at thestar. com/privacy. View our subscriber agreement terms at thestar.com/agreement. Delivery may not be available in all areas.This subscription will renew automatically at the then current rate in effect for home-delivery. Please contact customer service at 1-800-268-9213 or at circmail@thestar.ca to get the regular rate for your area.The bonus $25 eGift card will be emailed to you once your full payment is processed successfully. Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery of your eGift card. A valid email address is required to email the eGift card to you. Refunds are not available for the value of the eGift card. Offer expires November 15, 2023. See additional terms at thestar.com/comgift. GET A BONUS GIFT WITH SUBSCRIPTION $25 BONUS! Grocery eGift Card OR $7.65/week FOR 6-MONTHS Offer Code:COM7GIFT 7-DAY HOME-DELIVERY FOR FOR 6-MONTHS Offer Code:COMSGIFT SATURDAY HOME-DELIVERY FOR $3.81/week SUBSCRIBE NOW: thestar.com/comgift OR CALL:1-800-268-9213 and quote one of the offer codes above SAVE UP TO OFF*72% A better life in Canada does not just mean a better job. For some new immi- grants the motivation has nothing to do with employ- ment. Anisha and Rohan, a newly married couple in their mid-30s, moved from their home in Bengaluru (formerly Bangalore — the Silicon Valley of India) to Whitby. They both possess ad- vanced degrees in biotech- nology and business, re- spectively, and each brings more than a decade of work experience with them. They explained that they came to Canada to get away from the rat-race back home. They had great jobs, a promising life and yet wanted something more. They appreciated the natural beauty of Canada, the quality of life available, and many simple things that many Canadians take for granted every day. Much of our social and political discourse on Ca- nadian immigration policy focuses almost exclusively on economic objectives. Undoubtedly, economic metrics are central to our evaluation. Immigration policy is not wholly altruis- tic, as some would like to pretend. According to the Council on Foreign Rela- tions, "Canada admits new permanent residents un- der four main categories. In 2021, 62 per cent of immi- grants were admitted through economic path- ways, 20 per cent through family sponsorship, 15 per cent as protected persons and refugees, and three per cent for humanitarian or other reasons." There is an instrumen- tal function to all govern- ment policy, pretending otherwise does not change the reality. But pragmatic function does not automat- ically devalue purpose. Canada has a declining birth rate. For a population to sustain itself, it requires a birth rate of 2.1 per wom- an; our Canadian birth rate in 2023 is around 1.4 per woman, which means that without immigration, we cannot replenish our own population. Canada has an aging population. Currently, it takes tax revenue from ap- proximately four working- age adults to pay for each retiree. Immigration policy is intended to reduce that ratio, which will bolster service capability for re- tirement-aged citizens. Finally, immigration seeks to address labour- market shortages by bring- ing in highly skilled and ed- ucated workers. Most new immigrants arrive through the economic category, which means they are here with functional purpose deemed necessary for the betterment of the Canadian economy. Yet for Anisha and Ro- han, gainful employment, while valuable, was not the only determinant of a bet- ter life. They describe themselves as "foodies," who enjoy sampling vari- ous cuisines available at the increasingly diverse restaurant options in Dur- ham. They love hiking the local trails, and even ven- tured out and tried skiing. "The stereotype is real; Canadians are truly friend- ly" said Anisha, when re- calling how helpful the lo- cal transit drivers were when they first arrived and didn't know their way around. Rohan explained that life back home was highly transactional, fast paced and impersonal. Durham feels a little more like home to them every day, they love being a part of the culture here and are glad they made the leap to start life anew. Debating immigration policy is completely within bounds for a democratic so- ciety, but it may help to re- member that behind every statistic is a real person, family, and life, waiting to become a part of the Cana- dian mosaic. Turns out there is more to life than money after all. Neil Gonsalves is an Indian-born Canadian immigrant who grew up in Dubai, U.A.E. and moved to Canada in 1995. He is an Ontario college educator, a TEDx speaker, an author, and an advocate for new immigrant integration and viewpoint diversity. IT'S NOT ALL ABOUT THE MONEY FOR IMMIGRANTS Originally from Bengaluru, India, Anisha and Rohan now live in Whitby. Confessed foodies, they love the diverse restaurant options in Durham, hiking local trails and gave skiing a try. Anisha Das photo OPINION NEIL GONSALVES Column 27 | Ne w s A d v e r t i s e r | T h u r s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 2 3 du r h a m r e g i o n . c o m Classified pages go to print @ 3pm on Mondays. Print times subject to change without notice for holidays and any unexpected circumstances. Please submit time sensitive requestswell in advance of our print time. Newspaper Contact I 905-579-4400 Classified Marketplace I Obituaries classifieds@metroland.com I 1-800-263-6480 Online available 24 hours a day durhamregion.com Contact Us EASTWOOD, Sandra ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sandra (Seamons) Eastwood on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at the age of 82. She was born on July 22, 1941, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Sandra was the beloved daughter of the late Tom and Ethel Seamons. Loving wife of Michael, they were married on October 30, 1965, in Pickering, Ontario. Devoted mother to her daughter Annette. Sandra is survived by her brother Ralph Seamons and her sister Maryanne McKeown. Sandra leaves behind a lifetime of precious memories and her memory will be forever etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Cremation has taken place. HEIN, Alice Elizabeth June 10, 1935 - September 9, 2023 ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ Alice Elizabeth Hein, 88 years of age, passed peacefully on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. Alice was born on June 10, 1935 in Holland. Predeceased by her devoted husband, the late Gunter Hein with whom she shared 48 years of marriage. Loving mother of four children, Rob- ert (Joan), Kimberley (Terry), Rose-Marie, and Tim (Tammy). Cherished Omi to Jessica, Eric, Stephanie, T.J., Chad, Amanda, Amber-Lee, Katelyn, Lindsey, Matthew and Alex- ander. Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 17, 2023 at The Simple Alterna- tive Funeral Centre, from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. - 8 p.m., located at 1057 Brock Road in Pickering. Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 for 11 a.m. at St. Bernadette's Church. Located at 21 Bayly St East in Ajax. Please visit Alice's memorial page at etouch.ca for service details and online guestbook. MITCHELL, Jean ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ Peacefully, on Tuesday, Sept- ember 5, 2023. Jean, loving mother of Barry, Linda (Bob), Loraine (John), David (Connie) and Sharon (Mike). Predece- ased by her siblings Kitt, Harry, Ken, John and Derek. Beloved nanny to 9 grand- children and great-granny to 9 great-grandchildren. Family and friends will be received at a Celebration of Life on Satur- day, September 30 from 12-4 p.m. at the Ajax Legion, 111 Hunt St. Online condolences may be placed at www.mceachniefuneral.ca BARBER, Jocelyn Elisabeth ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 16, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at the Station Gallery, 1450 Henry St., Whitby, in memory of Jocelyn Barber. Jocelyn was a resident of Pickering since 1959. She worked in Whitby at Anderson CVI as an art teacher from the 1970s through to 1989. Jocelyn's obituary is available at: www.mountpleasantgroup. permavita.com/site/ JocelynElisabethBarber.html Every life deserves to be remembered. Let US help YOU, to tell THEIR story on our High Quality Granite. Call or visit our showroom in Ajax now, to learn about your options. Proudly servicing ALL cemeteries with 8 showroom locations to serve you. Hours of Operation Monday to Friday 9-5 p.m. Evening and Saturday Appointments offered 905-427-4366 sanderson.ajax@bellnet.ca 32 Old Kingston Rd, Ajax Ainsley Kennedy- McKinnon Shepherd ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ Proud parents, Kaleigh McKinnon, and Brandon Shepherd, announce the arrival of their beloved daughter, Ainsley Kennedy- McKinnon Shepherd. Born Friday, September 1, 2023, at 7:02 a.m., weighing 9.1 pounds, at Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay, Ontario. She is welcomed with joy by her parents, as well as Grandma, Grandpa, Nana, Papa, great grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Thanks to the Midwives of Lindsay, the maternity ward staff and all Ainsley's friends and family for their ongoing love, laughs, hugs, and casseroles! Welcome to the world, baby girl! Prayer St. Jude ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ May the sacred heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. O sacred heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude worker of miracles pray for us. Helper of the hopeless pray for us. Say this prayer nine times a day, by the eighth day, your prayer will be answered. Publication must be promised. -K.S. Ajax/Pickering Area YOUTH, ADULT CARRIERS WANTED: Paper routes available! If interested in any of the above, please contact: circulation@ durhamregion.com OR customersupport@ metroland.com 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT Brighton Area Ideal for 55+. 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