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Pickering volunteers face criminal checks By Mike Ruta Staff Writer PICKERING — Volunteers who have direct and frequent contact with public school pupils will soon be required to provide a criminal background check. At Monday’s Durham District School board meeting, Sally McIl- veen, superintendent of employee services, presented a draft criminal background check (CBC) policy and procedure to trustees as a notice of motion. Board members will dis- cuss it at the March 21 board meet- ing and likely vote on it in April. The policy has been in the works since three years ago when the for- mer provincial Conservative govern- ment passed a regulation requiring boards to conduct CBCs on all em- ployees as part of the Safe Schools Act. While the board has required a check as a condition of employment for all employees for several years, it has not had a formal policy and pro- cedure. Currently, volunteers must provide a check if the principal asks for one. “It is clear in the legislation that (volunteers) would fall under the category of anyone who has access to schools,” Ms. McIlveen told trust- ees. However, not all volunteers will need a CBC. Ms. McIlveen says the legislation refers to direct contact with students on a regular basis, which she considers four or five times a week. The board in 2002 opted to cover the one-time, roughly $75,000 cost Pickering professionals like investment in day care, but want more details By Danielle Milley Staff Writer DURHAM — The federal govern- ment has shown them the money, now local child-care professionals want to see the details. “I’m happy to see that they’re finally going to put money towards child care, we’ve been bringing up the importance of the issue for years,” said Donna McManus, supervisor of Valley Farm Day- care and Nursery School. She has worked in the profession for 15 years. In We dnesday’s federal budget, $5 billion was pledged over five years for a national early learning and child-care system, with $700 million to be given to provinces this year based on population. This year’s money comes with no strings attached as Ottawa and the provinces continue to negotiate a formal funding agreement. Although Ms. McManus was pleased to see the Liberals fol- lowing through on their election promise, she is interested to see what the breakdown of the pro- gram is going to look like. “It’s just going to be very impor- tant how they set it up... I think the parents need to have choice,” she said. “I’d rather see it given to par- ents as a supplement rather than day-cares themselves.” Angela Bell, general manager of YMCA Child Services Durham Region, was also pleased with the money pledged. “It’s a wonderful start and it is now addressing the area of child care that has been neglected for years,” she said. “G etting something is great. The plan for it, as it rolls out, will be helpful.” SPRING IS IN THE AIR Ron Pietroniro/ News Advertiser photo PICKERING — Patrick Mealiffe makes certain a brace is straight before welding it onto a piece of steel tubing. Mr. Mealiffe and other volunteer members at the Frenchman’s Bay Yacht Club were get- ting new docks ready last week for the spring boating season. No kidding, federal budget going over well The Pickering 40 PAGES ✦ Pressrun 48,600 ✦ Metroland Durham Region Media Group ✦ FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 ✦ Optional delivery $6 / Newsstand $1 PROTECTOR Lee’s looking for killers Page 30 CULTURAL ROOTS Heritage Day celebrates diversity of Pickering Page 3 A TOAST Pickering club home for Ajax woman Page 13 March Break Camps, Swim, Skate or Museum Settler Survivor Call Now 905.420.4621 cityofpickering.com BLOW OUT SALE Starts Sat., Feb. 26/05 3/4” x 2 1/4” $2.99 - $3.75 >>`>Ê>À`Ü`Ê >>`>Ê>À`Ü`Ê À}ÊV° >>`>Ê>À`Ü`Ê >>`>Ê>À`Ü`Ê À}ÊV° 1547 Bayly St., Pickering 905-420-3285 ✦ See Trustee, Page 5 ✦ See Day, Page 4 A/P PAGE 2 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com F riends enjoy the many cultures found in Ajax and Pickering Jeff Hayward Special to the News Advertiser PICKERING — Diversity took centre stage in Pickering last weekend. Several talented acts with unique cultural back- grounds were showcased Saturday at the Pickering To wn Centre. The lively and colourful demonstra- tions were hosted by the Pickering Advisory Com- mittee on Race Relations and Equity. They were to commemorate Heritage Week in Ontario, which runs from Feb. 21 to 27. Heritage Day kicked off the week-long celebration of cultural differences and unique heritage in the province. An equally diverse audience was on hand to take in the entertainment. “It (heritage day) helps show people how dif- ferent cultures work,” said Saijith Loganathan, a spectator. “It (also) brings people together.” He was there with friend Karrtik Tharmaratnam, both of Ajax. The show opened with a performance by the Joy Allen Highland Dancers, followed by the Dur- ham Tamil Association Dance Group, Macedonian Izgrev Dance Group, and As-Sasa Lebanese Dance Group amongst others. The Pickering Carib Canadian Cultural Asso- ciation featured local performer Joy Lapps on steel pan. Ms. Lapps has performed at the Caribana fes- tival in Toronto as well as other notable appearanc- es. She said her skill wasn’t passed down through generations like some, instead she picked up the craft about seven years ago playing at church. “(Steel) panning and church didn’t mix together very well,” she joked. She said she now enjoys performing for Heritage Day celebrations and others like it. “It helps you reach audiences you wouldn’t nor- mally reach,” she said, adding that the sound from her pan is a “real crowd pleaser.” Several associations and committees were also on hand to provide related information to the public from event booths, including the Durham Regional Police Service and the Women’s Multi- cultural Resource and Counselling Centre of Dur- ham. durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 3 P Environmental Toxins Causing Major Health Problems “We must take control of our health now” In today's fast paced society, it is easy to forget about our health. Most start out with vibrant health, but by the age 30, begin to develop 'minor' irritations. These ‘small’ health problems become more serious, causing our health to fall into decline. Eventually, chronic disease sets in and we long for the days when we could do simple things with ease and without pain. We live in a toxic world with chemicals from factories, trucks, and pesticides. In 1989, over 5.7 billion pounds of toxic material was released into the environment in North America. Breathing polluted air, drinking poor water, and eating nutrient depleted foods is a deadly trio which is poisoning our bodies. Our environment has declined further since 1989. Toxins are entering our bodies in record amounts through our food, air, and water. Dr. Brenda Watson, a naturopathic doctor and cleansing specialist states “The quantity of toxic materials entering our bodies is overwhelming. More alarming is the number of people 25 – 40 years old who are developing serious health problems.” “What is happening is that we are becoming very toxic. Our bodies cannot keep up with the tremendous amount of toxins we consume daily. It is causing us to ‘breakdown’. “If we want to reverse this, we must take charge of our health and do the things necessary to ensure our bodies can cope”, states Watson. “The first step in taking charge of our health is to embrace cleansing and detoxification. Cleansing is no longer optional, it is a necessity for good health and to reduce the risk of degenerative diseases” explains Watson. Detoxification is the body's natural process of neutralization and elimination of toxins from cells, organs and the blood. The body processes these toxins through the colon, liver, kidneys, urine, feces, exhalation and perspiration. Cleansing is the action of helping your body to perform detoxification more effectively. One of the best ways to cleanse is by performing an herbal cleansing program. You will want to start off slowly at first, and then move towards a more ‘advanced’ cleanse. “If you are serious about your health, you must cleanse every 3-4 months. Toxins are continually entering the body and you must be diligent in helping the body eliminate them. The following are things that I recommend to improve the detoxification process” says Watson. First Cleanse, a 15 day cleanse designed specifically for the ‘first time’ or ‘sensitive’ cleanser, works to gently stimulate the body’s 7 channels of elimination. “When any of the channels become overwhelmed with toxins they cannot perform their detoxification processes properly”. First Cleanse stimulates these channels and enhance the detoxification process. This allows the body to process and eliminate a greater amount of toxins in a shorter period of time. Once you have finished First Cleanse, you are then ready for a more advanced cleansing product called CleanseSMART. CleanseSMART works to perform the same actions as First Cleanse, but at a much more advanced level and with more emphasis on the body’s two main channels of elimination; the liver and the colon. “If you have cleansed before, this is the product for you”, says Watson. No matter which cleanse you are performing, you must take fibre along with it. Fibre works to absorb toxins that have been processed by the liver and brings them to the colon for elimination. However, not just any fibre will do. It needs to have a balanced ratio of soluble to insoluble fibre. “The reason this is important is that most people are constipated (less than 2 bowel movements per day). Taking a soluble fibre, such as pysllium, can cause or worsen constipation. This is due to the fact that it is 97% soluble and absorbs 40 times its weight in water. If you are cleansing, and the body is dumping toxins into the colon for elimination, they will only get reabsorbed back into the system if you are constipated, explains Watson” FibreSMART is a unique, flax seed based fibre that contains the needed ratio of 50% soluble and 50% insoluble. “This makes FibreSMART a good choice” states Watson. WANT MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CLEANSING? Sign up for Renew Life’s FREE Digestive Care Newsletter!! Simply e-mail your full name and e-mail address to newsletter@renewlife.ca and you will receive the newsletter every 8 weeks. Nutrition House Pickering Town Centre 905-420-3262 BN Natural Food 1500 Kingston Ave. 905-420-1462 GNC Pickering Town Centre 905-831-0958 The Herbal Pathway 10 - 1822 Whites Rd. 905-839-7234 Health Plus Nutrition Ctr. - Heritage Mall 145 Kingston Road E. 905-426-7587 GNC - Durham Centre 135 Harwood Ave. N. 905-683-4086 Pickering Ajax For Information, please visit or call one of these health food stores Brenda Watson, Naturopathic Doctor, Colon Therapist #OMMISSIONS TRAILING COMMISSIONS MANAGEMENT FEES AND EXPENSES ALL MAY BE ASSOCIATED WITH INVESTMENTS IN LABOUR SPONSORED VENTURE CAPITAL CORPORATIONS ,36##S ,36##S ARE NOT GUARANTEED THEIR VALUES CHANGE FREQUENTLY AND PAST PERFORMANCE MAY NOT BE REPEATED 2EAD THE PROSPECTUS BEFORE INVESTING VT__gbWTl $ +## %)+ +%'' jjj!Zebjg[jbe^f!VT g[XaXjZebjg[jbe^fVb``XeV\T_\mTg\baYhaW <a gebWhV\aZ T cbjXeYh_ aXj EEFC \aiXfg `Xag bccbegha\gl! BYYXe\aZ lbh `T]be gTk fTi\aZf c_hf g[X TWWXW Ubahf bY W\i\WXaW cTl`Xagf biXe & lXTef»j[\_X fg\__ [b_W\aZ g[X haWXe_l\aZ \aiXfg`Xag \a 9haW f[TeXf! <g T__ TWWf hc gb Ta EEFC \aiXfg`Xag g[Tg i\eghT__lcTlfYbe\gfX_Y!7XTW_\aX\f@TeV[$fg! Uhgg[XeX¿f`beXlbhaXXWgb^abj!4\ a\ dddT_\daUd\_X`PN S\_ QRaNVY` N[Q YVZVaNaV\[` UTfXWbaT$####\aiXfg`Xag eefcgTkfTi\aZf ')'% gTkVeXW\gf &(## W\i\WXaWf %(## gbgT_ $#)'% 8Tea$#)## \agTkfTi\aZfW\i\WXaWf kimo limo Limousine Services Specializing in long distances, casinos, graduations, weddings, private parties (late model stretches up to 10 passengers) Ask for Kimberley for more details 905-839-7639 Cell: 416-453-5696 • *We do corporate accounts* **VERY SPECIAL PRICES** (Check our local rates) Performers s et the stage for Heritage Week Ron Pietroniro/ News Advertiser photo Sana Salam, of the Sinclair Secondary School Pakistani Dancers, performed at Heritage Day activities. Initiative hooks unsafe tow trucks in Pickering PICKERING — More than half the tow trucks inspected during a recent safety blitz failed, ac- cording to Durham Regional Police. Project Safety Hook 2, which occurred Feb. 16 near Pickering’s western border, saw 39 trucks in- spected and 21 removed from service for various safety concerns, police said. Police laid 19 charges for Provincial Offences Act infractions and caught two drivers on the road with suspended licences. Officers also found one driver to have an outstanding immigration war- rant. He was held for immigration officers, who took him into custody. A/P PAGE 4 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com Rick Mercer On average, each Canadian produces five tonnes of greenhouse gases a year. Driving, heating and cooling our homes, using appliances...almost anything we do that uses fossil fuels for energy also creates greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. And these emissions are causing our climate to change. Take the One-Tonne Challenge – reduce your energy use and your GHG emissions by 20%, or one tonne. You’ll save money, and help to protect our climate and our air quality. Get your Guide to the One-Tonne Challenge. Visit climatechange.gc.ca or call 1 800 O-Canada (1800 622-6232),TTY 1 800 465-7735. Every Canadian loves a challenge, right? Take action on climate change Ms. Bell agreed having a program where parents have choice is im- portant. “Parents having the power to choose the type of care they want is important and I think this gov- ernment understands that,” she said. Dinar Dassa, owner of Better Be- ginnings Daycare and Preschool in Ajax, is pleased the funding will open up more licensed child-care spaces. “There are a lot of children right now who are in care not regu- lated by a government body and regulated centres are at capacity... Those spaces are needed and a na- tional program would give a boost to those spaces,” she said. About 70 per cent of women with children under age six work in Canada, but there are only enough regulated spaces for 20 per cent of young children. The local child-care profession- als said the program is going to be most beneficial to middle-income families who don’t qualify for cur- rent subsidies. “(The current system) makes child care not affordable for many families, including those in the middle income,” Ms. Bell said. Ms. McManus said the waiting list to just get an appointment for a subsidy is eight months to a year in Durham Region. ✦ Day, From Page 1 DURHAM — Tax cuts, more money for the military and cities, and the first steps toward a national child-care program are among the highlights in the federal budget. For the eighth straight year, the government has balanced its books, but is projecting a surplus of $4 billion in 2005/06. The budget also includes new spending of $42 billion over five years. • The tax-free limit is being raised to $10,000 by 2009, up from the current $8,150. That will remove 860,000 people from tax rolls, in- cluding 240,000 seniors. While a benefit to low and medium-income families, all Canadians benefit be- cause all taxpayers claim the basic personal amount. • Seniors will benefit with a boost to the guaranteed income supple- ment by $2.7 billion over five years. As a result, monthly benefits would climb by $36 for singles and $58 for couples by January, 2007. A single person now receiving maximum GIS benefits of $560 a month in ad- dition to old age security pension gets a total of $1,032. By 2007, that figure would rise to $1,068. • Registered Retirement Savings Plan contribution limit will rise to $22,000. The 30-per cent foreign content limit on pensions is being eliminated. • Other tax changes include eliminating the corporate surtax and lowering the general corporate income tax rate to 19 per cent from 21 per cent. • Over the next five years, the military will receive an additional $12.8 billion, the largest such in- crease in defence spending in 20 years. The armed forces will in- crease in size by 5,000 troops and another 3,000 reservists. The extra money will be used to buy new me- dium-capacity helicopters, trucks, utility aircraft and specialized fa- cilities for the country’s elite anti- terrorist troops. • A “new deal” for cities means municipal governments receive a share of the federal gas tax revenue worth $600 million over the next year. That will increase to $2 billion a year, or five cents a litre, by 2009- 10. • Meeting the country’s commit- ments to the Kyoto Accord will see $5 billion over five years for a Clean Fund to encourage projects aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emis- sions. Ta x cuts, spending mark federal budget We’re online at durhamregion.comDay-care dollars enticing, but Ajax and Pickering operators want details of checks for current employees, but new employees have to pay for their own. “The board should pay the cost of CBCs for volunteers,” says Ux- bridge Trustee Gordon Baxter, add- ing sarcastically that requiring one is a great way to reward someone who works with students four or five times a week. Board chairman Michael Barrett says that proposal might have to be decided at budget time, with Os- hawa Trustee Susan Shetler noting “that could be very, very expensive.” She welcomed the policy and said it should be approved as soon as pos- sible. Trustee Shetler said a “pre-hire declaration” from employees was “a great idea.” In the policy, pro- spective employees cannot begin working until they have supplied a CBC. However if the person’s job is starting and the board has not yet received a CBC, it may allow some- one to begin work, if the candidate supplies proof that a check has been requested from a police service and if the person signs an agreement stating the check will be provided. Oshawa Trustee Kathleen Hop- per is concerned that the cost of a background check might limit the number of volunteers who come forward to work in schools. “For some schools, it does cause issues, especially in disadvantaged areas,” she said. If an employee’s check reveals a criminal conviction or a potentially dangerous pattern of behaviour, the manager of hiring and employee services superintendent will meet to consider the next step. durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 5 A/P Every year, thousands of Ontarians stop smoking. For themselves. For their families. For life. You can too. So set your quit date. And for help, call Smokers’ Helpline: 1-877-513-5333. You say you’d do anything for them? Prove it.Paid for by the Government of OntarioPETER’S ACADEMY OF DEFENSIVE DRIVING March Break Special visit our website at: www.petersacademy.com MAXIMUM INSURANCE SAVINGS CALL NOW - HOURS: 7 DAYS A WEEK 10am - 10pm TORONTO 777 Warden Ave. Suite 211 (South of Eglington) 416-750-0472 PICKERING 1050 Brock Rd. Unit #10 (South of 401) 905-831-6464 MARKHAM 5762 Hwy. 7 Unit 203A (Upstairs of No Frills) 905-294-1001 Only $27500 PLUS GST 4 DAY COURSES March 12-15 March 16-19 March 21-24 • 25 hours in a MTO approved classroom • 15 private in-car lessons on automatic • FREE pick-up at home • Courses start every week • Defensive driving instruction Learn Life Saving Skills Skid Control Evasive Maneuvers Braking Techniques • FREE progress report card Group Discounts Are Avaliable (for 3 or more) MTO Approved Driver Training An Installment Payment Plan For Your Concenience Mini Package Available MORNINGSIDE 8130 Sheppard Ave. E. Suite 205 (In the Homelife Building) 416-282-0160 Sunday Feb. 27th Sunday Feb. 27th Sunday Feb. 27th 10 am - 4 pm 10 am - 4 pm 10 am - 4 pm INQUIRIES: 728-5369 www.alexscdworld.com Oshawa Legion - 471 Simcoe St. S. Just North Of The 401 - Admission $3 CD/RECORD CD/RECORD SH W SH W DEE LONG from KLAATU signing autographs 11:30am-1:30 pm ✦ Trustee, From Page 1 Tr ustee calls on board to cover cost of criminal checks on school volunteers P PAGE 6 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com EDITORIAL LETTER TO THE EDITOR Budget does enough to satisfy all parties The federal Liberals had little choice but to satisfy a vari- ety of interests in Wednesday’s federal budget. And, with a little tax relief and money for the mili- tary mixed in with day care funds and Kyoto requirements, blended with debt reduction and a reaffirmation of cash for health care, everybody should be happy. Or not. For Paul Martin and the Liberals find themselves in a tough spot. They had better listen to what the opposition parties want — and sources indicate Finance Minister Ralph Goodale consulted with the other parties more than any other finance minister ever has — or face a quick exit from Parliament. Indeed, voters across Canada made it clear last June that they want a government that compromises with its foes and that seeks a more balanced plan for our country’s future. That’s what this budget does. On tax relief, the feds will raise the basic personal ex- emption to $10,000 by 2009 to bring 860,000 low-income earners off the tax rolls. They’ll also jack up the limit on RSP contributions to $22,000 by 2009 and eliminate the 30-per cent foreign property limit. In addition, the corporate statu- tory tax rate will drop from 21 to 19 per cent by 2010 and the corporate surtax will be dropped. These last two moves are vital if Canada is to remain competitive with the tax-cutting mania of George W. Bush. A total of $4 billion will be invested to curb climate change and to meet our Kyoto commitments. This pledge affirms the promises on Kyoto made both by former PM Jean Chretien and by Mr. Martin. A $5-billion promise has been made to kick start a national child-care program. That was a promise made in the 1993 federal Liberal campaign Red book. For municipalities starving for that precious gas tax, there was little new except that this year will see $600 million going to them instead of $400 million. A previous promise that the gas tax would rise to 5 cents a litre over five years was reaf- firmed. Of course, the Conservatives, Bloc Quebecois and NDP will all take a long look at the polls before deciding which way to vote on this budget. While they didn’t get everything they wanted — who ever does? — this budget is sufficient to keep the Commons in session for at least another year. Pickering needs a resetting of priorities To the editor: Recently, Pickering Councillor Maurice Brenner an- nounced that a pedestrian bridge may be forthcoming, con- necting the Pickering Town Centre to the GO station. I personally don’t have a problem with that, but I do take exception to the manner in which this city forges ahead with projects while neglecting existing ones. First of all we are not a city, in fact we are light years away from attaining that level. We are just a blip on some pilot’s radar screen. Please, members of council, stop flattering yourselves. It’s an unfunny joke. It’s time you take the time to travel around and take a look at the status of the waterfront trial, especially the sec- tion adjacent to my residence on Elvira Court. Twice now I’ve injured myself on my bike because of its deteriorating condition. Get your priorities straight and spend tax dollars properly. In the spring I will invite council members to my place and discuss what should be done — if they can find the time to extricate themselves from City Hall. Frank Threlkeld Jr. Pickering NEWS ADVERTISER Metroland Durham Region Media Group Tim Whittaker, Publisher Joanne Burghardt, Editor-in-Chief To ny Doyle, Managing Editor Duncan Fletcher, Director of Advertising Andrea McFater Retail Advertising Manager Eddie Kolodziejcak, Classified Advertising Abe Fakhourie, Distribution Manager Lillian Hook, Office Manager Cheryl Haines, Composing Manager Janice O’Neil, Composing Manager [ Contact us ]-- News/Sales 905-683-5110; Clas- sifieds 905-683-0707; Distribution 905-683-5117; News Fax 905-683- 0386; General Fax 905-683-7363; E-mail tdoyle@durhamregion.com; Mailing Address; 130 Commercial Ave., Ajax, Ont. L1S 2H5 [ About Us ]-- The News Advertiser is one of the Metroland Printing, Publishing and Distributing group of newspapers. The News Advertiser is a member of the Ajax & Pickering Board of Tr ade, Ontario Community News- paper Assoc., Canadian Commu- nity Newspaper Assoc., and the Canadian Circulations Audit Board. Also a member of the Ontario Press Council, 2 Carlton St., Suite 1706, Toronto, M5B 1J3, an independent organization that ad- dresses reader complaints about member newspapers.The publisher reserves the right to classify or refuse any advertisement. Credit for advertisement limited to space price error occupies. Editorial and Advertising content of the News Advertiser is copyrighted. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited. Publications Mail Sales Agreement Number 1332791. [ Letters Policy ]-- We w elcome letters that include name, city of residence and phone numbers for verification. Writers are generally limited to 200 words and one submission in 30 days. We decline announcements, poetry, open letters, consumer com- plaints, congratulations and thank you notes. The editor reserves the right to edit copy for length, style and clarity. Opinions expressed by letter writers are not necessarily those of the News Advertiser. Due to the volume of letters, not all will be printed. Fax: 905-683-0386; e-mail: tdoyle@ durhamregion. com. The newspaper contacts only those whose submissions have been chosen for publication. T he landscape of north Pickering is on a collision course with change. The area north of Hwy. 7 that was expropriated in the 1970s to build an airport stands as a window to another time. As of now it has remained free of the cookie-cutter subdivisions and big box stores that blanket the rest of Durham and the GTA. Many know the days are numbered for this pristine landscape if the airport pro- posed by the Greater Toronto Airport’s Authority is approved, but residents, concerned groups and politicians began mobilizing recently to prevent a more imminent change. Transport Canada, which owns the land, and Public Works, who manages the land, are in the process of having 25 vacant buildings demolished by the end of March. As well, Public Works sent out 12 eviction notices last week to tenants in order to vacate the homes so they could also be demolished. A Transport Canada representative said the most recent decision was based on economics — it would cost too much to do the necessary repairs and upgrades — and the health and safety of the ten- ants. Several of the buildings hold some his- torical significance, but none more than the Tullis cottage. The residents of Tullis cottage, the Bar- clays, were part of the dozen tenants to receive a notice. They are concerned about leaving the home they’ve lived in for 20 years and raised their children in, but more so about the loss of their family’s and Pickering’s heritage. The Tullis cottage was built in 1840 by George Barclay who held several offices in the community including postmaster and Township clerk. He also played a sig- nificant role in the Rebellion of 1837. The Barclay family, one of the key families in Pickering, has lived in the home since it was built. The history associated with the quaint white house at the corner of Seventh Concession and Brock roads is reason enough to slow down the plan to demol- ish it, not to mention its architectural significance. Based on the reaction to the possible loss of this unique heritage property, Transport Canada could hand it over to a local heritage group and I’m sure the group would have no problem raising money from the community to do any repairs. Not all of the buildings on the federal lands can be saved but the Tullis cottage, which was recently designated a heritage property by Pickering council, stands out and it needs to be recognized by the federal government for the role it plays in Pickering’s history. History is too important to bulldoze, it needs to be cherished and preserved for future generations. Danielle Milley’s column ap- pears every third Friday. E-mail dmilley@durhamregion.com. Lo ss of history would be a shame Danielle Milley staff writer EDITORIALS & OPINIONS infodurhamregion.com Ajax woman finds model citizen in time of need By Joshua May Special to the News Advertiser AJAX — As she innocently hurried to aid impeded motorists, Loretta Polma- teer never imagined her luck would turn sour. As the 81-year-old Ajax mother hur- ried to remove a garbage can from the street out front her home, the elderly female slipped on an icy patch of road, falling painfully on her back. Witnessing this tragic turn of events, a truck driver passing by took it upon himself to stop his vehicle and aid the fallen woman. In frosty weather, the driver removed his jacket without a second thought and quickly placed the coat beneath the woman’s head, stretched a warm blan- ket over her and then went in search of help while she lay incapacitated. As officers and ambulances arrived to carry the injured woman to hospi- tal, Ms. Polmateer’s neighbour, Cindy Best, scampered inside to get the injured woman’s OHIP number and lock the door. The truck driver, on the other hand, vanished without a trace, simply to be remembered as yet another neighbourly act of kindness. “It’s so great to see that people still do nice things,” said Shelley Britton, daugh- ter of Ms. Polmateer and Educational As- sistant at Terry Fox Public School in Ajax. “In this day and age, all we read about are the bad things that happen within our towns and communities. It’s so re- freshing to know that there are still some amazing people out there. People who care for others even when they don’t have to.” Ms. Polmateer was examined by Ajax- Pickering hospital doctors to uncover only minor injuries and bruising. Days after the incident, while recover- ing from her spill at home, Ms. Polma- teer heard a knock at her door that by chance happened to be the same truck driver that had provided her aid. “He had come to see how she was doing. He’s returned a few times since the incident first occurred. He’s just in- credible,” said Ms. Britton. “So many people nowadays don’t take the time to help others in need. I guess you never know who a hero can be.” The truck driver, who is known to the family simply as ‘Pat’, is a model citizen for the community, says Ms. Britton. If you have a story to tell about a Good Neighbour who has gone above and beyond to help someone in a time of need, let us know by e-mail- ing dstell@durhamregion.com. durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 7 A/P R OB H OUSTON + Plus taxes, lic. & admin. fee, former daily rentals + Plus taxes, lic. & admin. fee, former daily rentals + Plus taxes, lic. & admin. fee, former daily rentals 2 0 0 4 2 0 0 4 2004 $ 15,888 $ 15,888 $ 15,888 2 0 0 4 2 0 0 4 2004 $ 12,888 $ 12,888 $ 12,888 V E N T U R E VENTURE $ 17,888 $ 17,888 $ 17,888 2 0 0 4 2 0 0 4 2004 C AVA L I E R CAVALIER 2 0 0 4 2 0 0 4 2004 $ 10,888 $ 10,888 $ 10,888 Fr o m Fr o m From F r om F r om From From From From From From From A L E R O ALERO I M P A L A IMPALA LAST CHANCE AT THESE PRICES ! ! D ICK S HINN J OE N IRO G REG C RUMP J OHN W AKALUK W A YNE S IBERRY No such thing as a drive-by for caring truck driver durhamregion.com One more way to get your news thanks to the Metroland Durham Region Media Group Watch for us every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday for all your local news. NEWS ADVERTISER A.J. Groen/ News Advertiser photo Loretta Polmateer was trying to retrieve an errant garbage can when she slipped and fell on her street. A passing truck driver stopped and cared for her. A/P PAGE 8 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com 900 Champlain Ave.,Oshawa 1-800-642-4561 or (905) 723-5211 OSHAW *Financing Available O.A.C. *Administration Fee of $49.95 plus taxes due at time of purchase.Offer does not apply to Best Value Items.See store for details. Store Hours :Mon.- Wed.9:30 a.m.- 6 p.m.Thurs.& Fri.9:30 a.m.- 9 p.m.Sat.10 a.m.- 6 p.m.Sun.11 a.m.- 5 p.m. SAVE10- 50%36hour SALE EMMITT Leather Stationary Sofa $1999.99 Anderson Rocker Recliner SAVE NOW on a stylish selection of La-Z-Boy ®Home Furnishings Larson SPECIALPURCHASE Rocker Recliner Ferguson Reclining Wing Chair $499.99Starting from $449.99 Starting from $979 99 THIS WEEKEND ONLY NO GST! KENO Stationary Sofa $899.99 *Best Value *Best Value *Best Value An award- winning news team Recipients of 39 provincial, national and Nor th American awards for editorial excellence in 2004 This Week Uxbridge Times- Journal NEWS ADVERTISER Canadian Statesman BROOKLIN the Citizen Metroland Durham Region Media Group AJAX — All items are 50 per cent off this weekend as Girls Incorporated of Durham holds its ‘Winter Blah Blaster Sale’. Girls Inc. is holding the sale at its Clothes Circuit Resale Clothing Store, 1-398 Bayly St. W. in Ajax, on Saturday, Feb. 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Proceeds go to supporting programs and services for girls and young women in Ajax and Pickering. Girls Inc. is committed to inspiring girls through mentoring and group programs to be strong, smart, and bold. The programs are for girls ages six to 16, or for a young mom or mom- to-be. For information, call 905-428-8111, or write to girlsinc.durham@girls-inc.org. Girls Inc. cuts prices to help programs durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 9 A/P Built for life in Ontario WISE BUYERS READ THE LEGAL COPY:*Lease a new 2005 Ford F-150 XLT SuperCrew 4x4/F-150 XLT SuperCab 4x4/Ranger Edge SuperCab 4x2 for $319/$319/$199 per month based on an annual lease rate of 2.9%/2.9%/3.9% and a 24/24/36 month lease from Ford Credit to qualified retail lessees, on approved credit. Total lease obligation is $12,551/$12,551/$10,159. First month’s payment and $4,895/$4,895/$2,995 down payment or equivalent trade required. Some conditions and a mileage restriction of 40,000/40,000/60,000 km over 24/24/36 months apply.A charge of 8 cents per km over mileage restriction applies, plus applicable taxes. First month’s payment and $375/$375/$250 security deposit required. Lease offers exclude freight ($1,085/$1,085/$995) licence, insurance, administration fees and all applicable taxes. $0 Security Deposit with the purchase of WearCare (up to $600 on a 24/36 month lease). ‡WearCare is an excess wear and tear amendment product. It amends the customers lease wear and tear responsibilities (as stated on RCL contract) by waiving up to $3,500 of excess wear and tear changes at lease-end (subject to certain exclusions). WearCare pricing (customer selling price is up to $600 on 24/36 month RCL’s. **Based on Ford Branded vehicle sales from Manufacturers' Month End Release, December 2004. †Or 0% purchase financing on all new 2005 Ford Ranger/2005 Ford F-Series (excluding F-Series Harley-Davidson), for a maximum of 36 months to retail customers, on approved credit from Ford Credit. E.g. $20,000 purchase financed at 0% annual percentage rate for 36 months, monthly payment is $555.56, cost of borrowing is $0 and total to be repaid is $20,000.The effective rate of interest is 0.0%. Down payment on purchase financing offers may be required based on approved credit.All purchase financing offer excludes freight, licence, insurance, administration fees and all applicable taxes. If a finance offer is selected,negotiated purchase price may exceed the cash purchase price,and may result in a higher effective interest rate.Dealer may sell or lease for less.Some conditions may apply to the Graduate Recognition program.Limited time offers.Unless specifically stated, all offers are mutually exclusive and cannot be combined. Offers may be cancelled at any time without notice. See Dealer for details. Ontario FDA, P.O. Box 2000, Oakville, Ontario L6J 5E4 We keep thinking about quality because we want you to drive a Ford. 36 MONTH PURCHASE FINANCING ON ALL 2005 RANGER AND ALL 2005 F-150 EXCLUDING F-SERIES HARLEY-DAVIDSON0%OR WE KNOW WHAT LEADERS ARE MADE OF. AND RIGHT NOW YOUR FORD DEALER CAN HELP YOU PICK ONE. ford.ca † Lease for: $199 * 3.0L V6 • 148 Horsepower – 180 lb.-ft. of Torque • 15" Split-spoke Machined Cast Aluminum Wheels • Fog Lamps • Rear Mud Flaps • Front Tow Hooks • Air Conditioning • CD Player • Front Cloth 60/40 Split Bench Seat • Rear Jump Seats 2005 FORD RANGER EDGE SUPERCAB 4x2 $319*per month/24 months with $4,895 down or EQUIVALENT TRADE. Freight $1,085, $0 Security with the purchase of WearCare.‡ • 4.6L Triton®V8 • Auto w/Overdrive • 293 lb.-ft. of Torque • Limited Slip Rear Axle • Cruise Control • Bright Polished Tubular Running Boards • 4-wheel Disc with ABS • 17" Chrome Clad Wheels • Power Windows/Locks • Dual Power Mirrors • Remote Keyless Entry • Air Conditioning • CD Player • Premium Cloth 2005 F-150 XLT SUPERCREW 4x4 -OR-SUPERCAB 4x4 Lease for: FORD F-SERIES IS CANADA’S BEST-SELLING LINE OF PICKUPS 39 YEARS RUNNING.** per month/36 months with $2,995 down or EQUIVALENT TRADE. 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Tent Campers Travel TrailerTravel TrailerTravel TrailerTravel TrailerTravel TrailerTravel Trailers Fifth WheelFifth WheelFifth WheelFifth WheelFifth WheelFifth Wheels Park ModelPark ModelPark ModelPark ModelPark ModelPark Models Grand Opening -New LocationGrand Opening -New Location SCARBOROUGH OFFICE 2941 LAWRENCE AVE EAST SCARBOROUGH,ON M1P 2V6 (416) 431-7449 New Location By Peggy Foster Staff Writer DURHAM — With pressure to serve the ever-increasing popula- tion of the GTA/905 with the best medical care available, mayors and regional chairs are asking the On- tario government for what it calls a fair share of health-care funding. Figures provided by the GTA/905 Health Care Alliance show that, compared to other regions in the province on a per-patient basis, the GTA/905 receives 30 per cent less total health care funding, 27 per cent less hospital funding and 24 per cent less for home care. Total health care underfunding for all services in the GTA/905 is es- timated by the health care alliance to be $866 million annually. “This massive gap in health-care funding for GTA/905 residents is even more significant when you consider the regions of the GTA will welcome half of the province’s an- nual popula- tion growth in the years ahead,” said Ta r iq Asmi, executive director for the GTA/905 Healthcare Alliance. The al- liance in- cludes acute care and mental health hospitals across the GTA/905 region from Oshawa to Burlington and north to Newmarket. The area is the fastest-growing region in Ontario, increasing by more than 90,000 new residents annually. On a per-capita basis, GTA/905 hospitals should have received $85 million from the provincial gov- ernment’s $307-million increase in base hospital operations fund- ing for 2004-2005. The hospitals received $37.6 million, a shortfall of more than $48 million. “The provincial government has a lot of call for its funds but you only have to look around at the hun- dreds of thousands of people who are coming to us for health care,” said Anne Wright, chairwoman of the board of trustees of Lakeridge Health. Ms. Wright says people’s expec- tations for medical help are clear. When they have health problems they expect to receive the most up- to-date care. “The more research we do into technology, drugs and treatment methods the more people are being helped who couldn’t be helped in the past,” Ms. Wright said. “This comes at a great cost. All of the diagnostic equipment we use is in- credibly expensive. The system is incredibly complex.” The plea to the provincial gov- ernment by municipal leaders for fair funding shows there is a will in the community to fight for its share, Ms. Wright says. “I don’t see the growth in our area slowing,” she said. “We can’t keep treating more people with the same amount of money. We’re making efficiencies but we’re com- ing to the end of what we can do.” Alliance makes case for more health funding Anne Wright DURHAM — Retail stores across Durham Region are opening their doors to the Red Cross. A fundraising event running March 1 to 14 will help the Red Cross in providing programs and services throughout Durham. All participating stores are giving cus- tomers an opportunity to add a donation to their bill or through coin boxes. Participating sponsors in Ajax are Fabricland, Home Hard- ware, Medical Place Pharmacy, and Millwork Home Centre. Participating sponsors in Pick- ering are Bay Ridges Pharmacy, Dunbarton Medical Pharmacy, Fa bricland, Grand and Toy, and Liverpool Pharmacy. For more information, call the Red Cross at 905-723-2933. Buy into Red Cross fundraiser A/P PAGE 10 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com May not be combined with any other offer. SATURDAY ONLY SPECIALS! sale $5999 Hamilton Beach stainless steel coffee maker Reg. $79.99. save 60% Circulon cookware sets and matching open stock save 55% 10 Kt.,14 Kt. & 18 Kt. Principles® gold jewellery Includes necklaces, bracelets and earrings. save 40% men’s Perry Ellis casual pants May not be combined with any other offer. SUNDAY ONLY SPECIALS! more than you came for Plus, save an extra 10 %* when you use your Hbc Credit Card Friday, Feb. 25th & Saturday, Feb. 26th on sale and clearance- priced merchandise save 10%*on regular-priced merchandise save $75 king size down duvets by Gluckstein Home and House&Home Example: House&Home Reg. $279.99. Now $204.99. save $50 queen & twin sizes. save 50% Bialetti fry pan or stir fry pan Reg. $14.99-$24.99. Sale $7.49-$12.49. save 50% women’s & men’s Etonic “Vista” walking shoe Reg. $59.99. Sale $29.99. save 40% men’s Adidas athletic fashions women’s buy 1, get 2nd for 50% women’s and men’s tops & jeans by Tommy Hilfiger Denim, CK Jeans, Chaps Denim and more. 2nd item must be of equal or lesser value. sale $1299 women’s discontinued Jockey bras. Reg. $32-$48. Excludes style #7369. save 25%-40% women’s selected designer fashions Includes petites & Above Average. jewellery, accessories &shoes save 50%-60% luggage by Eddie Bauer, Air Canada, Travelpro, Atlantic, Skyway and more save 50% 14 Kt. Charter Collection® gold jewellery save 40% women’s Nine&co. sunglasses save 25% selected watches by Ti mex, Bulova, Levi’s, Casio and more. Excludes Timex “Ironman” and “Expedition”. men’s buy 1, get 1 free men’s Arrow Kent dress shirts. 2nd item must be of equal or lesser value. save 30% men’s casual outerwear by London Fog, Weatherman, Pacific Trail, Mantles™and RFT by Rainforest JOCKEY EVENT save 25% mens’ Jockey underwear & socks Sale ends Sun., Feb. 27th. kids’ buy 3 or more, save 40% buy 2, save 30% buy 1, save 25% kids’ regular-priced sleepwear, outerwear, socks, underwear & more home save 50% 16-pce. or 20-pce. casual dinnerware sets In our Housewares Dept. save 40% • Crystal D’Arques giftware • Ralph Lauren towels save 30% Royal Sovereign embroidered sheet sets save 25% Beaumark®cookware, bakeware, kitchen accessories and French White sets save 15% regular-priced furniture Don’t miss these great weekend savings!Friday, Feb. 25th to Sunday, Feb. 27th SAVE AN EXTRA 30% • women’s and mens’ clearance- priced brand name denim • women’s clearance-priced gloves and accessories • women’s, men’s & kids’ clearance-priced fashions Excludes I.N.C & Alfani. Off last ticketed prices. SAVE AN EXTRA 20% discontinued nursery furniture, bedding and accessories Off last ticketed prices. SAVE AN EXTRA 25% clearance-priced cushions, throws, window coverings, accent mats, placemats, napkins, table runners, chair pads, tablecloths, oven mitts, pot holders & kitchen towels Off last ticketed prices. $799 assorted pillows NOW $1499-$4999 women’s & men’s selected footwear Was $29.99-$119. SAVE AN EXTRA 40% • women’s clearance-priced sleepwear, robes,fashion bras, daywear & panties • women’s & men’s clearance- priced Global Mind fashions • women’s, men’s & kids’ clearance- priced shoes, boots and slippers • clearance-priced watches & jewellery Off last ticketed prices. Get up to 50% more Hbc Rewards points. Use both cards together on every purchase at the entire Hbc family of stores. Selection will vary by store. Savings are off our regular prices, unless otherwise specified. Everyday Bay Value, just-reduced, Power Buys, Manager’s Specials, licensed departments, Home Studio, Liz Claiborne Home are excluded. When you see "POWER BUY" you will know we have found an exceptional deal to pass on to you. We may tell you the COMPARABLE VALUE on the price ticket and/or a sign, so you will see the price another retailer in Canada charges for the same or a comparable quality item. Quantities of our Power Buys are limited – no rainchecks. When we say “PRICE CUT”, we mean the existing everyday price is being lowered temporarily. See in store for details. * 10% offer exclusions: cosmetics & fragrances, Gucci watches, electronics, music, video & gaming, software, computers, major appliances, furniture, mattresses, just-reduced items and licensed depart- ments. Other exclusions may apply. See store for details. Pickering T o w n C e n t r e Gift Re g i s t r y G a l a Saturday, A p r i l 2 , 6:30 - 9:0 0See Stor e F o r D e t a i l s DIANE COUTURE 78 Albert St. @ corner of Bruce (905)725-2790 Advice on proposals, bankruptcy and alternatives. Helping the people of Oshawa since 1986. Book your appointment today... Ease your mind tomorrow. Trustee in Bankruptcy FREE CONSULTATIONS Evening & Weekend Appointments We can be reached at 905-683-5110 NEWS ADVERTISER Ta ke the Settler Survivor Challenge PICKERING — The Pickering Mu- seum Village is offering families an op- portunity to find out if they have what it takes to be a Settler Survivor. The museum has created settler trails, self-guided hikes through the woods that highlight the difficulties Pickering’s earliest settlers faced dur- ing their first winter in Canada. Stops along the trail include log sawing, nature activities, outdoor children’s games, and even a few of Pickering’s earliest settlers cooking over an open fire. There are two trails to choose from, half- or one-kilometre in length, taking approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to com- plete when allowing time for activities. Appropriate winter clothing and foot- wear should be worn. For small chil- dren, bring along a toboggan or sled. The Backwoods Players theatre group is offering homemade soup at the Puterbaugh Schoolhouse. Settler Survivor is Wednesday, March 16, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the village, located off Hwy. 7 in Greenwood. Ad- mission is $2. For more information, contact the museum at 905-683-8401. Have a ball and grant wishes PICKERING — Michael Cornthwaite is looking to put more drive in the Chil- dren’s Wish Foundation of Canada’s fundraising activities. The Pickering resident is gathering donated new or used golf balls to sell as a fundraiser for the foundation. To arrange to drop off or for pickup, call Mr. Cornthwaite at 905-831-3329. For more information about the Chil- dren’s Wish Foundation of Canada, call 1-800-267-WISH or visit www.child- renswish.ca. • Learn the best answers to common interview questions • Understand what interviewers are looking for • Prepare your personal ‘elevator pitch’ • Learn real interview techniques with a critiqued mock interview • Gain the confi dence to Ace the interview! Ace the Interview workshop There’s still time to register for the next session! Wednesday, March 2, 2005 9 am - 12 Workshop fee: $59 Call now to reserve your place! Tel: 905-668-3328 www.a-vocation.com 519 Dundas St. E., Unit 2 Whitby ON L1N 2J5 Just east of Garden St. Mention this ad and get 15% off! Are you afraid of Interviews? avocation durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 11 A/P present: S I N G L E S D A N C E Saturday February 26th. 8pm to 1am 4 Corners Banquet Hall 207 Dundas St. W, Whitby South side of Hwy #2 just west of Brock St – extra parking behind KFC DJ, Cash Bar, Food,Prizes, ages 35+,$15 at the door Dress code: upscale casual. Visit www.thesinglesnetwork244.com or 905-244-LOVE *see website for upcoming speed dating events* Not Valid with any other offer. One discount per guest cheque per visit. No cash Value. Taxes, gratuities and alcoholic beverages not included. Please present coupon to server. Expires March 10,2005. Va lid Monday to Thursday Valid for Dine in Only at Boston Pizza Pickering. Second item of equal or lesser value. Not valid with any other offer. One discount per guest cheque per visit. No cash Value. Taxes, gratuities and alcoholic beverages not included. Please present coupon to server. Expires March 10, 2005. OFF YOUR NEXT PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE. BUY ONE ENTREE OR GOURMET PIZZA AND GET THE SECOND ONE FREE! $5 Registered trademarks of Boston Pizza Royalities Limited Partnership, used under license. © Boston Pizza International 2005. Dental Care for Adults, Kids and Great Big Babies. • A Full Range of Dental Treatments - Bring the whole family. • Saturday & Evening Appointments - To serve you better. • Flexible Payment Options - Helping you get the treatment you want. • A Relaxing Atmosphere - Virtual vision glasses, stereo headphones to help ensure you have a pleasant visit. VIJAY BADHWAR, DMD 905-683-1391 We keep our patients smiling by taking the time to understand their needs. Add our friendly, caring staff and state-of-the-art techniques and you’ve found a good dental home. •2.0 hp Continuous Duty •Contact Heart Rate •20" Belt •EZ Folding System $4162 www.fitnesssource.ca 2004 Gold Winner Hoist V2 •1.75 hp Continuous Duty •Contact Heart Rate •Folding Design Vision 9500HRT Shop where the pros shop Can-Fit-Pro OFFICIAL SPONSOR for all things fitness Selection may vary by store. All admin/taxes/delivery due at time of purchase. *Minimum administration fee of $99. •Club Quality •Absolutely the Smoothest Elliptical •Exercise Forward Design •Commercial Quality •Personal Trainers Choice •Comfortable Back Support •Smooth Magnetic Resistance Vision 2000 Recumbent Bike *See store for details. O.A.C on selected merchandise. Financing over 12 or 24 months. Maximum $2600 purchase. Equal payments. Prices shown are for 24 month plan •8 Computer- Controlled Magnetic Resistance Levels •18" Stride Length •Grip Heart Rate Monitoring /mth OR $999 $3329 /mth OR $799 $1871 /mth OR $449 $5412 /mth OR $1299 $83 29 /mth OR $1999 $5312 /mth OR $1275 Octane Q35 Consumer Digest Best Buy! Bladez 6320 Treadmill Schwinn 815 Treadmill •3.0 hp Continuous Duty •Heart Rate Control Schwinn 418 Elliptical ®CONSUMERGUIDE BEST BUYBEST BUY ®CONSUMERGUIDE BEST BUY GET THE EQUIPMENT YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED HAMILTON Meadowlands Power Centre (905) 304-5919 $9162 /mth OR $2199 OR $2599 /mth $10829 BLADEZ MODEL BF 6112 •3.0 hp •Motorized Folding Treadmill •Console Monitors Pulse, Speed, Time, Distance, Calories Burned & Heart Rate $24 95 /mth OR $599 Best Value in Canada! 0%NOW 12 OR 24 MONTHS* FREE Orthopedic Belt Men’s Health Gym of the Year •2.5 hp Continuous Duty •Contact Heart Rate •Folding Design Smooth 5.15 Treadmill COMING SOON BRAMPTON RICHMOND HILL MISSISSAUGA (905) 755-9000 TORONTO (416) 440-0244 VAUGHAN (905) 660-4888 OAKVILLE (905) 815-0123 VAUGHAN MILLS (905) 761-7074 NEWMARKET (905) 836-7618 MARKHAM (905) 471-4116 PICKERING (905) 426-5700 Mike Pochwat/ News Advertiser photo Dog days of winter PICKERING — Pickering resident Thomas Trescher and pal Abbey visit the Altona Forest in Pickering almost every day as the Bernese mountain dog loves spending time running the many trails. A/P PAGE 12 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com Produced by Dynamic Publishing & Events Management. For more information call (905) 426-4676 ext.222 CO-SPONSORED BY: March 4th - 6th, 2005 P ICKERING MARKETS TRADE CENTRE Squires Beach Rd. and Bayly, Pickering www.showsdurhamregion.com Home Décor • Patio Furniture • BBQ’s • Hot Tubs • Swimming Pools • Home Improvements • Plus lots more for Home & Garden F abulous Prizes To Be Won! 9th annual $5 Admission FREE Friday March 4th $1000* worth of flooring from Image Flooring Decor Shoppe Inc. *Installation extra See contest rules & regulations at the show. You Could Win! IMAGE 2 FOR 1 PASS Produced by: Dynamic Publishing & Events Management 905-426-4676 ext. 222 a Metroland Durham Region Media Group Company Friday March 4th 1PM – 8PM Saturday March 5th 10AM – 6PM Sunday March 6th 10AM – 5PM Plant the seed to better your home. Seminars • Demostrations • Lots of Prizes & Giveaways $5 Value Pickering Markets Trade Centre Squires Beach Rd. & Bayly St. Just East of Brock Rd. on Bayly BAYLY ST.BAYLYST.SQUIREDBEACH RD.BEACHRD.WESTNEY RD.WESTNEYRD.AJAXAJAX BAYLY ST.SQUIRESBEACH RD.WESTNEY RD.BROCK RD.BROCKRD.BROCK RD.AJAX Pickering Markets Trade Centre NN To HWY 401 401401 durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 13 P CANADIAN TIRE PICKERING ONLY 1735 Pickering Parkway (at Brock Road), Pickering • 905-686-2308 Many more unadvertised specials available instore. Hurry in for best selection. Sorry, no rainchecks or substitutions. Sale ends Thursday, March 3, 2005 or while quantities last. Limit 4 boxes per coupon. Original coupon only. Start The Bidding SILENT AUCTION on selected items Sat. Feb. 26 2 Ply, Box of 108 PUFFS TISSUES Reg. 1.19 53-0407-8 89¢ With this coupon only The management and staff were pleased to present $1500 each to Susan Johnson, Big Brothers & Sisters of Ajax/Pickering, and Kelly Cameron, Pregnancy Help Centre of Durham. The money was raised through the better relations committee and Canadian Tire Pickering “Helping to Strengthen Our Community” Krishnakhanthan has felt welcome ‘since Day 1’ By Joshua May Special to the News Advertiser AJAX — The only pay- ment Bahi Krishnakhan- than can offer Toastmas- ters is to share her story. A member of the Ajax- Pickering Toastmasters Club, Ms. Krishnakhanthan has learned many valuable lessons in her year-and-a- half tenure with the orga- nization. Toastmasters is a volunteer group dedicated to helping men and women learn the art of speaking, listening and thinking to promote self-confidence, enhance leadership, foster human understanding and contribute to the better- ment of mankind. “These are some of the most giving people I’ve ever met; they really care about their members,” said Ms. Krishnakhanthan. “I never could have antici- pated when I joined this group the level of concern and care for not only their members, but the commu- nity at large. They’ve made me feel as though I belong here ever since Day 1.” A native of Sri Lanka, Ms. Krishnakhanthan moved to Canada in 1981 due in part to the job opportuni- ties available here. Situat- ing herself in Ajax 10 years after her move, Ms. Krish- nakhanthan has been de- veloping a love for the town ever since. In an effort to become more involved and give back to the commu- nity, while also improving her speaking and listening skills, Ms. Krishnakhan- than joined the Ajax-Pick- ering Toastmasters Club. “I read in the News Ad- vertiser a bulletin about the (Ajax-Pickering Toast- masters) and thought it might be fun to get to know more people in and around Ajax,” she recalled. “The confidence I have found, not only in my commu- nication skills but all my goals, can be attributed to the (Ajax-Pickering Toast- masters Club). They’ve changed my life for the bet- ter.” Ms. Krishnakhanthan, who anxiously awaits every weekly club gather- ing, is especially proud of a picture she has created entitled ‘Who said Toast- masters is just for public speaking?’ Inspired by her experiences with the orga- nization, the picture out- lines members of the gen- eral public and the aid the club can provide. Celebrating its 21st an- niversary on March 12, the Ajax-Pickering chapter is actively involved in the community, volunteering its services to help improve communication skills as well as conducting presen- tations at various educa- tional institutions through- out the region. Currently with 35 mem- bers, the club is open to anyone interested in im- proving their communica- tion skills. “We just want to offer people the opportunity to achieve their (speaking/ listening) goals,” said Elias Rizk, president of the local club. “We are one of 15 Dur- ham Region chapters dedi- cated to improving indi- viduals’ communication skills in a positive learning environment.” The Ajax-Pickering club meets every Wednesday from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Pickering Nuclear In- formation Centre, Mont- gomery Park Road, just west of Brock Road. For more information, call 905-619-6716 or visit www.toastmasters.org. W oman raises a toast to Pickering club Mike Pochwat/ News Advertiser photo Proud member Bahi Krishnakhanthan drew this cartoon to illustrate Toastmasters is more than a public speaking group, “it’s a grief and stress buster,” and a lot of fun. Do it yourself at Pickering library PICKERING — Patrons of Pickering’s central library branch can now serve them- selves. Self-checkout service to borrow books and other ma- terials recently became avail- able at the Pickering Public Library branch. “Offering self-checkout is way of streamlining service,” said Cynthia Mearns, library chief executive officer. “Cli- ents are increasingly using ATMs and other automated services and expect the same kind of speed and effi- ciency at the library. As well, self-checkout allows staff to spend more time serving those clients who need or like personal help.” Last year the Pickering Public Library circulated more than one-million items, its highest checkout level since 1996. The library says having the self-checkout at the busy central branch will help it to respond to high service demand easily and cost-ef- fectively. The option has been available at the Petticoat Creek branch since it opened in 2002. Clients with DVDs and other items in security cases have to continue using the staffed checkout desk for the time being. Committee wants kids who can make a difference PICKERING — The Pickering Activity Council for Teenz is looking for young people wanting to make the city a fun place for youth. PA C 4 Teenz is currently accepting applications for the 2005 youth council. The council meets once a month at the Petticoat Creek Community Centre to organize events and activi- ties for Pickering teens 13 to 19 years old. “The council is a fun way to meet new friends, while at the same time help- ing make a difference in the community,” said member Alisia Young. The council meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Applications can be picked up at the Petticoat Creek or East Shore com- munity centres and the deadline is March 1. For more information, call Heather at 905-683- 2760 ext. 6100 or visit Pickering’s website at www. cityofpickering.com. Pickering in Brief FEBRUARY 25, 2005 Pickering woman wins lottery again PICKERING — Joan Synowicki has done it again. The 69-year-old Pick- ering resident has hit it big in the lottery for the second time. Ms. Synowicki won the $100,000 Encore prize for the Wednes- day, Feb. 2 draw. She had previously won a 1988 Lottario jackpot worth $486,868.30. The retiree plans to share her windfall with her husband John, her four sons, 11 grandchil- dren and the rest of her family. The winning ticket was purchased at Beck- ers on Kingston Road in Pickering. A/P PAGE 14 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com OUR BIGGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR!OUR BIGGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR! TTHI S SATU R DAY,FEBRUA RY 26 A N D SU NDAY,FEBRUA RY 27 ONLY ! Tired of old man winter? Hurry into Leon’s this weekend because we’re turning up the heat with hot sale prices in every department, a $40 coupon for even more savings, amazing no payment plans and much much more! We’re also giving away a trip for 2 to Mexico, 27" stereo TV’s and microwaves! Yes, we’ve put the WOW into this year’s LUAU. So bring the whole family and enjoy all the fun. P.S. Grass skirts are optional! ® CANADA’S ONLY FURNITURE SUPERSTORES †GOOD ON ANY PURCHASE $500 OR OVER(excluding taxes). IT’S LIKE †IN THE SHOWROOM IS WITH ALL THE AND THIS...SSale PRICES Sale PRICES INSTANT COUPON Limit one coupon per household. Must be presented to receive discount. Not redeemable for cash. Valid until February 28, 2005. NO MONEY DOWN! NO INTEREST! NO MONTHLY PAYMENTS! PA Y ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!15 MONTHS NOT EVEN THE TAXES! FORFOR15 MONTHS!!* Unbelievable sofa buy! 46” HDTV ready! ON FURNITURE! ON APPLIANCES! 446" ON ELECTRONICS! Lots More In Store!Lots More In Store!18 Cu. Ft. fridge 18 Cu. Ft. fridge WORLD OF VACATIONS and Service Guaranteed Travel & Cruises is pleased to provide a one-week trip for 2 adults to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, includes: airfare and seven nights at the all-inclusive 4 star Palladium Vallarta Resort & Spa. RETAIL VALUE $5000 (No Purchase Necessary) Please see in-store for complete details ONE PER STORE 1 OF 53 TOSHIBA 27 ” PURE FLAT TV’S RETAIL VALUE $479 (No Purchase Necessary) 1 OF 53 LG MICROWAVES RETAIL VALUE $169 (No Purchase Necessary) ONE PER STORE ** ** INCLUDES DELIVERY!INCLUDES DELIVERY!INCLUDES DELIVERY! ** *O.A.C. Total purchase including all applicable taxes and a processing fee of $55 (Eg. $1500 purchase with $55 processing fee equals an APR of 2.93%) is due May 2006. Not applicable to previous purchases and markdown items. **Odds of winning a trip, your purchase, the 27" tv or the microwave is dependant on the total number of ballots received in all participating stores. Leon’s employees and their immediate families are not eligible. Must be 18 years of age or older. Custom orders require 25% deposit. All first time buyers must put down a 15% deposit on any financed pick-up purchase over $1,000. durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 15 P Candle cause of Pickering apartment f ire PICKERING — A candle is responsible for $260,000 in fire damage to an apartment, say Pickering Fire Services. At 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 19, fire- fighters responded to a 16th floor apartment fire at 1880 Val- ley Farm Rd. They arrived to find flames shooting from the win- dows of the unit. Steve Fowlds, fire inspector with Pickering Fire Services, said the fire could have been much worse if the tenants had not fol- lowed proper emergency proce- dures. “If the apartment door hadn’t closed properly it would have al- lowed for the fire and toxic smoke to get into the hallway,” he said. The fire was contained to the unit, except for damage to the exterior of the building from the flames that burst out of the win- dows. A male resident sustained minor burns when he tried to put the fire out himself. When he was unsuccessful he got out of the unit quickly. Everything in the apartment was lost in the fire. “There’s nothing left at all, it’s right down to the concrete,” Mr. Fowlds said. “There’s not too much that can be salvaged.” He said it can take as little as three minutes for a fire to spread and cause serious damage. “People don’t realize how quickly something can go wrong with something as small as a can- dle,” Mr. Fowlds said. From 2000 to 2003 there was a 17-per cent increase in candle fires while the overall number of fires have decreased, he said, adding the number of deaths from candle fires has also in- creased. “That means candles are re- sponsible for a growing propor- tion of residential fires,” he said. The fire department is advising residents to keep lit candles in sturdy holders on level surfaces and, if possible, place a glass chimney or shade over it. Can- dles should be kept out of reach of children and pets, and away from anything that can burn. They should be extinguished be- fore leaving the room or going to bed. It is also important to have a smoke alarm. In this case work- ing smoke alarm was present in the apartment and the building fire alarm system was activated to initiate an evacuation of the building. DRPS officers work with students to infuse lessons with real-life intensity By Jillian Follert Staff Writer DURHAM — Mike Roy is backed up against the wall, his gun raised, his voice reaching a fevered pitch. “Drop the knife!” he screams at the girl advancing toward him. “Drop the knife!” But she doesn’t. With only a few feet between them, he has one sec- ond to decide whether to pull the trigger, or let her get close enough to do serious damage. “Every police officer has their own line in the sand,” he says, suddenly stopping the confrontation with a raised hand. “This right here is mine. This is where I would have to shoot her.” The students seated in front of him listen raptly, the idea of actually shooting someone might be hard to comprehend from their vantage point in this cheerful Durham Col- lege classroom. Her role in the demonstration over, the knife-wielding volunteer returns to her seat, and Constable Roy continues his lecture on the use of force. As one of many Durham Region- al Police Services (DRPS) officers who regularly work with students in the school’s police foundations program, he knows how important it is to infuse lessons with real-life intensity. “Things can go from calm to crazy like that,” he says, banging his baton on the floor for emphasis. “One min- ute, a guy is passively resisting you... he’s telling you to get lost. The next minute, he’s taking a swipe at you with a knife. You have no time to think. This is why you need good training to fall back on.” Const. Roy notes that Durham is one of the best places to receive such training, calling the school’s two- year police foundations program “s econd to none.” With an average of 1,500 applicants for 150 available spots, it’s clear he’s not the only one who thinks so. Police foundations courses are not mandatory for aspiring police officers in Ontario, but they provide a definite edge for passing provin- cially mandated written and physi- cal tests. “Something as simple as greet- ing people properly is an important lesson,” says Ted Dionne, one of the program’s instructors and a former staff sergeant. “When I walk into my class I say good morning to each person. If they don’t say it back, I ask them, ‘How are you going to be a police officer if you can’t greet someone?’” In offering courses like First Na- tions People, and Sociology and Ca- nadian Society Durham’s program puts a focus on respect and under- standing that few other schools can match. “In my First Nations class I have the students write a prayer,” Mr. Di- onne says, as an example. “They wonder what that has to do with being a police officer. I tell them, the most important role they will have is communicating with people. If they can learn to understand differ- ent cultures, ideas and values, they’ll always be able to do that.” Constable Mary Carr is in the middle of a two-year teaching stint at the school, and is most proud of her unique course — it requires students to complete 40 hours of community service. She believes that, if students fa- miliarize themselves with services available in the community and the challenges people face, they will be more compassionate in the field. “Durham College is the only school that does something like this, and I think it’s so important for building community ties and an understanding of real life,” she says. Student Crystal Vasiloff, 21, loves this blend of traditional and innova- tive courses, and is confident the program will help her realize her dream of working with the DRPS sexual assault unit. Halfway through her second year, she says the classroom aspect has been challenging, but not half as gruelling as the fitness courses that prepare students for their manda- tory Physical Readiness Evaluation for Police (PREP) test. All potential police constables in Ontario are required to pass the test, which includes an aerobic shuttle run and a pursuit/restraint circuit where participants run up and down stairs, scale a fence, perform simu- lated arm-restraint exercises, and drag a 150-pound rescue dummy. “The classes are so hard, even for people like me who have always been athletic,” Ms. Vasiloff says. “This school has really high standards and they push you and push you... it’s a good feeling to know that if you can pass the test here, you’ll be ready for the real thing.” Back in the classroom, Const. Roy is also preparing classes for the real thing, raising a clenched fist to a young female student, as he plays the part of an agitated man accused of assaulting his wife. “I’m not leaving my house! You can’t make me leave my own house,” he yells, taking a convincing step toward her. She tells him again that he’s under arrest, this time sounding a bit more confident. “O ne day, this will be real and you’ll hear my voice in your head,” Const. Roy tells them. “You’ll be sweating buckets, your adrenaline will be going, and you’ll know ex- actly what to do.” Heavy police presence Walter Passarella/News Advertiser photo Student Jennifer Kelloway’s fitness is put to the test by instructor Rob Thomson during a drill she must pass in order to proceed in the Police Foundations program. Constable Mike Roy conducts a demonstration on appropriate use of force, with the help of a second-year student.Annie Thomas drags a 150-pound dummy as part of a drill. New Ajax school will cost $8.2 million AJAX — Derbtile Con- struction will build Ajax’s next public elementary school. At Mo nday’s Durham Dis- trict School Board meeting, trustees awarded the tender to the firm at a construction cost of $6.52 million. When five-per cent contingency, building permit, furniture and equipment and other costs are added, the total cost is expected to be $8.2 million. “This is awesome,” Ajax Wa r ds 1 and 2 Trustee Mari- lyn Crawford said. “This is a little overdue, but we’re glad it’s finally getting going.” The unnamed Not- tingham public school was approved in Phase 1 of the board’s third, system-wide school improvement and building plan in March. At the time, the cost estimate for the 506-pupil school, on Seggar Avenue in the Westney and Rossland roads area, was $7.8 million. The school is expected to open in December or early 2006. The new school’s stu- dents will start the 2005/06 school year at Lincoln Alex- ander and Lincoln Avenue public schools. Trustees like Brock school’s size just fine DURHAM — Public school board trustees on Monday rejected a call for a larger school in Brock Town- ship. The much-delayed new home for McCaskill’s Mills Public School students in Cannington was approved three years ago. A 409- pupil facility is planned, but parents and Uxbridge-Brock Trustee Gordon Baxter have been lobbying to have the school built for 458 students. To do so would cost an esti- mated $400,000 extra. At the Durham District School Board meeting, Trustee Baxter argued that the two existing school sites already house 458 students, that the extension of Hwy. 404 would bring more people to the area, and that further reductions in classroom sizes would mean a require- ment for more space. He also noted that the school would immediately require portables. However, trustees ar- gued that the school’s situa- tion is not unique and, while sympathetic, voted against his motion. Now that boards don’t have taxing powers, “you have to rob Peter to pay Paul” said Oshawa Trustee Kathleen Hopper. In the world of fixed budgets, honouring Trustee Baxter’s request would mean taking money away from future projects, she said. Whitby Trustee John Dolstra noted the amount of speculation in his colleague’s argument, worried that the anticipated higher student numbers wouldn’t material- ize. “I don’t want to see this board spending this kind of money and then we have empty classrooms by 2009,” he said. A/P PAGE 16 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com SPECIAL SALE Carrier of The Week If you did not receive your News Advertiser/flyers OR you are interested in a paper route call Circulation at (905) 683-5117. Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9 - 7:30 Sat. 9 - 4:30, Sun. 10 - 1 Remember, all inserts, including those on glossy paper, can be recycled with the rest of your newspaper through your blue box Recycling program. For information on delivering your advertising flyers, call DUNCAN FLETCHER at 683-5110. IN TODAY’S News Ad vertiser ADVERTISING FLYERS BARGAINS Wa lmart, 270 Kingston Rd. E., Ajax Wa lmart, 1899 Brock Rd. N., Pick. 135 Kingston Rd., Ajax 222 Bayly St. W., Ajax 1360 Kingston Rd., Pick. * Delivered to selected households only Kevin Friday’s carrier o f the week is Kevin. He enjoys Basketball & Beta Fish. He will receive a dinner for 4 voucher compliments of McDonald’s. Congratulations Ke vin for being our Carrier of the Week. Friday Feb. 25, 2005 News Advertiser * 2-4-1 Pizza Ajax * Ajax Sobey’s Store Ajax * Arby’s Canada Ajax * Best Buy Ajax/Pick. * C anadian Tire Ajax/Pick. * D.O.T. Patio Ajax/Pick. * Dominion Ajax/Pick. * Elias Painting Ajax * Food Basics Ajax/Pick. * Free Topping Ajax * Future Shop Ajax/Pick. * Herbies Pick. * Home Decor Solutions Ajax * Home Depot Ajax/Pick. * IGA Ajax * Lakota Herbs Ajax/Pick. * Loblaws Pick. * M&M Meats Ajax/Pick. * Mekesson Main Drug Pick. * New Homes Ajax/Pick. * No Frills Ajax/Pick. * Office Depot Ajax * Pharma Plus Ajax/Pick. * Pickering Sobey’s Store Pick. * Pizzaville Ajax * Price Chopper Ajax/Pick. * R adio Shack Ajax/Pick. * Sears Ajax/Pick. * Shoppers Drug Mart Ajax/Pick. * Walmart Ajax/Pick. * Wheels Scar. * Your Independent Grocer Ajax/Pick. * Zellers Ajax/Pick. Your Carrier will be around to collect an optional delivery charge of $ 6.00 between Feb. 23 - Feb. 27/04 Food Court Area (905) 837-0564 OPEN ALL YEAR Mall Hours: Feb. 7 -Apr. 30/05 Income Tax Returns INSTANT CASH REFUND (some exceptions apply) E-FILED REFUNDS IN ABOUT 2 WEEKS ALL INCOME TAX RETURNS PREPARED (Personal, Business, Corporations & Trusts) BOOKKEEPING SERVICES AVAILABLE PICKERING TOWN CENTRE READY CASH E-FILEE-FILE $10 OFF with this ad Expires March 31/05 Timbits Hockey isn’t about winning or keeping score. It’s about learning the basics, making new friends, and most importantly, having fun. Every year over 50,000 entry-level players across the country discover just how great the game can be. That’s why your local Tim Hortons is proud to sponsor Timbits Minor Hockey in the Durham community. The first goal is having fun. Public school board in brief FEBRUARY 25, 2005 FRIDAY, FEB. 25 SALE: St. Martin’s Anglican Church holds its latest new-to-you sale from 7 to 8:30 p.m., featuring good used clothing for the whole family, a white elephant table, toys and book. The church is at 1201 St. Martin’s Dr. in Pickering. Call 905-839-4257. SATURDAY, FEB. 26 STAMP CLUB: The Ajax Stamp Club hosts its 26th annual Stamp Bourse, an event featuring 17 stamp dealers, a club sales table, and refreshments. Anyone interested in the collecting and trading of stamps is welcome. The show is at the Ajax Community Centre from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call club president Richard Weigand at 905- 430-2637. GIRLS INCORPORATED: Girls Incor- porated of Durham’s Clothes Circuit resale clothing store is holding a one- day only ‘Winter Blah Blaster Sale’ where all items are 50 per cent off. The sale runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 398 Bayly St. W, Ajax. EXERCISE TIPS: Mike Slean of Team Tw elves is at the Pickering Recreation Complex to discuss exercise curiosi- ties and tips to reshape your body. Starts at 10 a.m. and admission is $10 for the general public, $5 for the com- plex members, and free to Fat Off program participants. Session runs on a first-come, first-served basis. SUNDAY, FEB. 27 PICKERING NATURALISTS: The Pickering Naturalists holds a wings of paradise butterflies outing in Cam- bridge. Meet Rayfield Pye at noon in the Pickering GO Station Parking lot for car pooling to the Butterfly Conservatory in Cambridge. There is a 10,000-square-foot warm tropical garden setting to view many species of butterflies. Admission is approxi- mately $8. Anyone interested is asked to call Rayfield Pye in advance at 905- 436-7998. MONDAY, FEB. 28 MIDWIVES: The Sages-Femmes Rouge Valley Midwives group is giv- ing people the chance to meet the midwives and learn more about midwifery care. The open house is in Pickering from 7 to 9 p.m. at the On- tario Early Years Centre, 1822 Whites Rd. To register call 905-409-6447 or 416-286-2228. SENIORS CARPET BOWLING: Run- ning from 9:20 to 11 a.m. every Mon- day and Thursday, the Ajax Seniors’ Friendship Club welcomes all seniors to par ticipate. A $10 fee applies to new members. The club plays at the St. Andrew’s Community Centre, 46 Exeter Rd., in Ajax. Call Evelyn Ed- wards at 905-683-2947. TUESDAY, MARCH 1 BUSINESS CLUB: The Durham Con- tact Business Exchange Club meets every Tuesday at 7 a.m. for a break- fast meeting at the Victoria Gardens Restaurant in Ajax, 570 Westney Rd. S. The non-profit club of small busi- ness owners meets for networking, exchanging ideas, promoting each other’s business and providing leads. The restaurant is at 570 Westney Rd. S. (at Lake Driveway West). Call 905- 428-5733 or visit www.durhamcon- tactbusiness.com. SENIORS CLUB: Lynette Kirton, from Vandermeer’s, is the guest at the Ajax Senior Citizens’ Friendship Club’s Tu esday Morning Discussion Group. The topic is gardening and offering tips to interested seniors on how to garden properly. Meetings are at the St. Andrew’s Community Centre, 46 Exeter Rd. Ajax. Call Louise Johnson 905-683-7799 at or Shirley Bruce at 905-428-8711 for details. ONTARIO GENEALOGICAL SOCI- ETY: Durham Region Branch 22 of the Ontario Genealogical Society is hold- ing a meeting for anyone interested. The meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. in the Arts Resource Centre, located behind Oshawa City Hall, Centre and King streets in Oshawa. Guest speaker is Ruth Street of Uxbridge. Call Marion at 905-683-2476. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2 ONE-PARENT SUPPORT: The One Parent Families Association, Ajax-Pickering chapter meets every Wednesday at the K.M.W Health Care Services, 158 Harwood Ave. Unit 22 in Ajax, for both custodial and non-cus- todial parents, whether your children are two or 42. Meetings are at 8 p.m., except for the first Wednesday of each month when it’s 8:30 a.m. Call 905-683-1082 or visit www.opfa.net. OSTEOPOROSIS SUPPORT GROUP: The local group meets in the upper hall of St. Paul’s United Church, 65 Kings Crescent in Ajax from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Access to the hall is from the back of the church. Call Odette at 905-831-4471. All are welcome. VOLLEYBALL: The East Shore Com- munity Centre in Pickering hosts non-competitive volleyball every Wednesday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. There is co-operative babysitting for infants and school-aged children. Call Andrea at 905-831-4263 or Debbie at 905- 619-1829. PREGNANCY WORKSHOP: Discus- sions include the pregnancy experi- ence, health and wellness, fetal de- velopment, choosing a caregiver and more. Session runs from 7 to 8 p.m. at 750 Plummer St. Unit 20, Pickering. Call 1-877-BIRTH36. THURSDAY, MARCH 3 PICKERING NATURALISTS: The March Pickering Naturalists meet- ing focuses on studying Ross’s and Little Gulls in Churchill. Richard Joos a bird-bander with the Toronto Bird Observatory, has been research- ing an Arctic ecosystem associated with the feeding habits of the gulls in Churchill, Manitoba. The meeting is in the library at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School, 490 Strouds La., at Rosebank Road, beginning at 7:45 p.m. Call Heather Jessop at 905- 837-1775. FEDERATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN: The local group meets at 7:30 p.m. at the Kinsmen Heri- tage Centre, on Roberson Drive in Ajax. Guest speaker is storyteller Heather Whaley. Books will be sold and refreshments served. All women over 18 are welcome to attend and admission is free. E-mail suzmcq@hotmail.com. SATURDAY, MARCH 5 LD AWARENESS: The Learning Disabilities Association of Durham Region holds its fourth Annual Learn- ing Disabilities Awareness Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The free event is an opportunity for teachers, parents and others to learn more about LDs and the products and services available. It runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Polish Veteran’s Association, 1551 Ste- venson Rd. N., Oshawa. durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 17 A/P 36 Hunt St., Ajax, Ontario 905-683-5251 The Green Thumb offers a variety of floral arrangements to add beauty to your wedding day. Ask about our free throw away bouquet corporate • wedding • funerals • office design services • baskets Advertising Feature • Over 18 years experience in the entertainment industry • All inclusive packages to fulfill your needs & budget • A full list of equipment, lighting and effects • Ethnic music libraries & MCs To ll Free 1-866-220-5434Taking your event to the next level MIRAGE PRODUCTIONS LTD. PROFESSIONAL DISC JOCKEY SERVICES 905-831-5253 726 Kingston Rd. Pickering *In CAA dollars **Before taxes not including insurance products We can help make your honeymoon unforgettable! Bring this ad in to receive $25* on any booking over $2000**or $50*for bookings over $3000** ® CAA and CAA logo trade-marks owned by and use is granted by the Canadian Automobile Association. ® Travel with someone you trust registered trademarks owned by, and use is granted by the American Automobile Association. Ontario Registration Number: 4242848. GST number: R889654281. To Advertise in this special feature call 905-683-5110 Sizes 4-15 Widths AA-EEE PICKERING TOWN CENTRE • UPPER LEVEL • SEARS WING • WE’VE GOT YOUR SIZE Genuine Leather, waterproof with a non-slip sole CANADIENNE IT'S SALE TIME Save $80 Save $80 www.durhamregion.com Your Millwork flyer is now available on-line at Billboard FEBRUARY 25, 2005 hh a s w o n d e r f u l c h o i c e s ... t h e h a s w o n d e r f u l c h o i c e s ... t h e g u e s t o f t h e w e d d i n g d o e s t o o !g u e s t o f t h e w e d d i n g d o e s t o o ! •SI Z E S 6 -22•SIZES 6-22 •I N-H O USE A LTE RATI O NS•IN-HOUSE ALTERATIONS •ACC ESSOR IES•ACCESSORIES 3 7 4 O L D K I NG S TON R D., S CA R BO ROUG H374 OLD KINGSTON RD., SCARBOROUGH 401 W. (from Whites Rd.) • Exit Kingston Rd. • Right at 1st exit (Lawson Rd.) At lights, turn left to Felicia’s 416-281-9966 The Mother of the Bride hdflhih A/P PAGE 18 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com I want a semi for the price of a town!I want a semi for the price of a town! • Live near GO, woods & downtown • Elegant enclave near the Lake • Beautiful 3 & 4 bedroom plans • Spa-style ensuites • Gourmet kitchen/Great Rooms • Access from garage to backyard GRAND MODEL OPENING $220’sFrom the sidebysidesemis WE HEAR YOU!At our Grand Model Opening in Ajax our incredible sidebysidesemis are separated from the garage back, giving direct access to your backyard. THE ROYAL VIKING MODEL HOURS: Mon.-Thurs.: 1 pm - 8 pm, Sat., Sun. & Hol. 11 am - 6 pm, Fri. by appt.Prices & info. are subject to change without notice. Map not to scale. E. & O.E. $20,000 ADVANTAGE TM TM nationalhomes.com durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 19 A/P home sweet ADVERTISING FEATURE homehome Photo courtesy of PICOV FURNITURE C.C. LTD. 1080 Brock Rd. Unit 8. Pick. RECOVER YOUR SOFA BAYLY 401 HWY 2 BROCK RD.$49900 831-6040 Ask about our In-Home Service *fabric included For only BATHROOM RENOVATIONS Master Qualifi cations at Phenomenal Prices Plumbers Inc. 416-543-0609 • 416-278-7464 #ONNECT 2EALTY ).$%0%.$%.4,9 /7.%$ !.$ /0%2!4%$ "2/+%2 ,ENA /HANNESSIAN 3ALES 2EPRESENTATIVE 4HINKING OF "UYING OR 3ELLING &OR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION CALL ,ENA TODAY s % -AILLENAOHAN ROGERSCOM $)2%#4/23 0,!4).5- !7!2$ 02%3)$%.43 '/,$ !7!2$ 3!,%3 !#()%6%-%.4 !7!2$ PICKERING 1410 BAYLY ST., UNIT 1 905-831-8989 NO INTEREST • NO PAYMENTS FOR 6 MONTHS O.A.C. BEST PRICES • BEST SELECTION MARKHAM RICHMOND HILL AURORA 905-475-0117 905-763-4205 905-841-3400OTHER LOCATIONS: Store Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9:30-8 • Sat. 10-6 • Sun. 11-5 FREE SHOP AT HOME SERVICE 905-831-8989FREE SHOP AT HOME SERVICE 905-831-8989 Laminate Special $1.49 8.3 mm 15 Year Warranty 4 Colours to Choose sq. ft. Hardwood 3 1/4 x 3 1/4” $3.99 Kempas Cherry, Oak, Maple, Birch sq. ft. Berber Special $1.65 sq. ft. Completely Installed With Underpad on T iles, Vinyl, Shutters & Blinds Specials A/P PAGE 20 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com "!9,9 !,,)!.#%,)6%20//,"2/#+Canada Hardwood Flooring Inc. Canada Hardwood Flooring Inc. 1547 BAYLY ST.1547 BAYLY ST. PICKERING 905-420-3285PICKERING 905-420-3285 1547 BAYLY ST. PICKERING 905-420-3285 BLOW OUT SALEBLOW OUT SALE 3/4” x 2 1/4” Solid Hardwood from $2.99 - $3.75 OVER 5000 sq. ft. INSTOCK WHILE QUANTITIES LAST SALE STARTS SAT. FEB. 26/05SALE STARTS SAT. FEB. 26/05 WE’VE EXTENDED OUR HOURS FOR THIS UNBELEIVABLE EVENT SAT. FEB. 26/05 10am - 5pm SUN. FEB. 27/05 10am - 5pm 20th Anniversary We do staircases, pickets & ra ilings Serving Durham since 1985 We now do complete home & basement renovations FACTORY MATTRESS 1650 Bayly St., Pickering (905) 837-0288 1-888-220-2282 www.factorymattress.comHOURS: Mon. - Wed. 10am-6pm Thurs. - Fri. 10am-9pm Saturday 10:30am-6pm Sunday 12pm-4pm Open Sunday from September to end of May rrs TM HWY #401 1650 BAYLY ST.LIVERPOOL RD.BROCK RD.N E S W Metal Futon (with 8" designer fabric Mattress) $34900 $29900 DELUXE SLEEPER $109 $197 Set Size Single Set Double 142 252 Queen 175 318 10 Year Warranty COURTESY SUPPORT $230 $351 Set Size Single Set Double 274 416 Queen 320 498 20 Year Warranty GETTING A GOOD NIGHT'S SLEEP WHY PAY RETAIL PRICE?WHY PAY RETAIL PRICE? BUY DIRECT AND SAVE Reupholstery Available call for appointment WE MAKE ANY SIZE MATTRESS 6 Months NO Payment No Interest o.a.c. FREE DELIVERY One coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offers. See store for details some conditions apply Dosen't Cost an Arm & Leg at FA CTORY MATTRESS www.factorymattress.com FA CTORY MATTRESS Queen Iron Bed (reg. $399 ) 3 Man Bunk (reg. $399 ) Size Set Mattress Double 574 367 Queen 643 412 25 Year Warranty JOYFUL COMFORT $321 $482 Set $25900 1652 Bayly St. W. Pickering Just West of Brock Rd. 905-831-7747 MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9:30-9:00 SATURDAY 9:30-5:30 SUNDAY 12:00-4:00 WALLPAPER CENTRE The NEW luxurious, washable matte fi nish that our customers are raving about !!! WITH THIS AD...BAYLY/BROCK LOCATION ONLY(SUPPLIES LIMITED) ENDS SUNDAY “We go to the wall for you!” AS SEE N O N CIT Y LI N E durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 21 A/P This weekend only, while supplies last, The Wallpaper Centre on Bayly St. - your Benjamin Moore dealer - is offering $4 OFF its gallons of the spectacular new Ulti-Matte fi nish. Save big and enjoy the incomparable luxury of this revolutionary non-refl ective paint that has everybody raving. As seen on CITYTV’s CityLine, Ulti-Matte actually enhances colour while being free of Benjamin Moore’s new “Ulti-matte” now on sale at The Wallpaper Centre on Bayly (Open Sunday!!!) glare. Plus it’s tough! That’s right...a durable, washable matte fi nish. Now available at The Wallpaper Centre, located at 16522 Bayly St., just west of Brock Road in Pickering. Open Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sunday Noon to 4 p.m., and weeknights 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information call The Wallpaper Centre at 905-831-7747. TO ADVERTISE IN THE HOME SWEET HOME FEATURE CONTACT CHRISTIAN-ANN AT 905-683-5110 DO NOT PAY FOR 1 FULL YEAR spas as low as $44 month installed ready for immediate installation 2004 GALILEOGALILEO POSEIDONPOSEIDON MERIDIANMERIDIAN • 42 Physio-therapy jets • Accu-Point massage lounge • (2) 5.0 Hp jet pump •CD Ozonator • 7 person, no lounge • 26 physio-therapy jets • Thermal locking cover • 5.0 Hp jet pump • CD Ozonator • 20 physio-therapy jets • 6 person, single lounge • 5.0 Hp jet pump • CD Ozonator • The world’s ONLY maintenance free spa • 67 Physio therapy jets • Clarion AM/FM/CD player • Quad speaker sound system “Making your backyard dreams a reality” CCompleteomplete Above GroundAbove Ground Pool Packages Pool Packages $$300300 PLUS FREE GIFTPLUS FREE GIFT as low asas low as $$11599599 FINANCING AS LOW ASFINANCING AS LOW AS $32 PER MONTH OAC$32 PER MONTH OAC EXTRA SAVINGSEXTRA SAVINGS ON POOLON POOL ACCESSORIESACCESSORIES $$30003000 SAVESAVE $$55000000 GENESIS 250 ELITEGENESIS 250 ELITE SAVESAVE SAVESAVE 637 Kingston Rd. Pickering 905-839-8399 Thurs - Fri 10-6, Sat 9-4, Sun 11-3 www.diplomatpools.com AMAZING IN-STORE POOL & PROMOTIONS Cover LifterCover Lifter FREEFREE FiltersFilters FREEFREE VOTED #1 POOL COMPANY 2000-2005VOTED #1 POOL COMPANY 2000-2005 ECLIPSEECLIPSE • Portable 100v • 11 jets • 4 person bucket seat • Light package $$29992999CASH & CASH & CARRYCARRY Ideal for CottageIdeal for Cottage www.markhamhomeshow.com • 1-888-211-7288 ext 224 Sponsored by: Markham Fairgrounds McCowan Road, 6km north of Hwy. 7 www.markhamhomeshow.com WEEKEND HOTTUB RENTAL WEEKEND HOTTUB RENTAL RONA - Friday, Saturday, Sunday POWER OF PLACE - Feng Shui for Modern Living - Saturday and Sunday Music of Del Mott - Friday and Saturday Enter our draw toWin! Enter our draw toWin! Sunday 11 am and 2 pmSunday 11 am and 2 pm SeminarsSeminars FridayFriday SaturdaySaturday FREE Admission FREE Admission First 100 visitors receive a Wendy’s Gift Certificate (one per family) First 100 visitors receive a Wendy’s Gift Certificate (one per family) Free Parking Free Parking MoreMore Exhibits! Products! Fun! The Biggest Spring Home Show Yet! The Biggest Spring Home Show Yet! Courtesy of Seaway Pool & Beachcomber Hot Tubs Courtesy of Seaway Pool & Beachcomber Hot Tubs Rene Huard, Antique Specialist and host of PRIME Television’s “Antique Hunter” Bring your family heirlooms, flea market finds and small collectibles for FREE appraisals by Rene Huard, Antique Specialist and Host of Prime Television’s “Antique Hunter” Bring your family heirlooms, flea market finds and small collectibles for FREE appraisals by Rene Huard, Antique Specialist and Host of Prime Television’s “Antique Hunter” RONA - Friday, Saturday, Sunday POWER OF PLACE - Feng Shui for Modern Living - Saturday and Sunday Music of Del Mott - Friday and Saturday Ticket Prices Adults: $5.00 Seniors & Students: $3.00 Children under 12: FREE Friday, February 25 12:00 noon - 6:00pm Saturday, February 26 10:00am - 6:00pm Sunday, February 27 10:00am - 5:00pm Friday, February 25 12:00 noon - 6:00pm Saturday, February 26 10:00am - 6:00pm Sunday, February 27 10:00am - 5:00pm World’s Largest Solarium Manufacturer TAKE ADVANTAGE of our winter incentive program. We pay the GST on all projects Limted Time Offer 905-404-2789 1-800-268-0111 Outdoor Living...Indoors™ www.fourseasons-sunrooms.com info@fourseasons-sunrooms.com THE HIGHEST QUALITY PROFESSIONALLY INSTALLED WE GUARANTEE IT.Independently Owned and Operated #19, 2020 Wentworth St. W., Whitby VISIT OUR SHOWROOM A/P PAGE 22 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com It has been a long, hard winter and unfortunately the freezing cold weather is not quite done yet, but Diplomat Pools and Spas has a remedy that will cure your winter blues; the addition of a Sunrise Spa. Staring March 3 to 6, take advantage of outrageous prices on top-of-the-line Sunrise Spas at Diplomat’s POOL & SPA HOMESHOW. For four days only, save thousands and receive a FREE COVER LIFTER and FILTER with every spa purchase. Not thinking of putting in a spa until the spring, well purchase a Sunrise Spa at the year’s lowest prices event and take delivery when you are ready! Don’t spend your summer peering over your neighbour’s fence waiting for the invite to take a plunge into the cool refreshing water of a swimming pool. Take advantage of Diplomat Pools and Spas fantastic ABOVE GROUND POOL PACKAGES starting at $1599.99, r eady for immediate installation. During the POOL & SPA HOMESHOW save $300 on any ABOVE GROUND POOL PACK AGE plus receive a FREE gift. Get the most out of your swimming pool and be ready for when the warm weather arrives. During the POOL & SPA HOMESHOW receive FREE SAND with the purchase of any sand fi lter, PAY NO TAX on all solar blankets, save $50 on all Raypak Heaters and spend more time enjoying your pool with a BARACUDA CLASSIC pool cleaner for only $ 349.99. Making your backyard dreams a reality has been the focus of Diplomat Pools and Spas for over 30 years. Exceeding every customer’s expectations can be expected with each and every visit. In addition to building award winning, custom vinyl liner pools, installing quality Sunrise Spas and constructing breath taking above ground pools, Diplomat Pools and Spas offers a variety of products and services to make your pool and spa a simple pleasure. V isit Diplomat Pools and Spas showroom located at 637 Kingston T he biggest spa savings event in 2005 Rd. (west of Whites Rd.) and see the exciting new 2005 Sunrise Spa line-up, as well as, the Concorde 52” aboveground swimming pool. Also, browse the store and look at the exciting new products for pools and spas. A friendly, knowledgeable staff combined with outstanding customer service has earned Diplomat Pools and Spas the distinction of being voted Best Pool Store by the Readers Choice Award for the past fi ve consecutive years. Diplomat Pools and Spas have been serving the Pickering area for over 20 years. If you have any questions regarding products or services, they can be contacted at 905-839-8399 or e-mail dpools@diplomatpools.com. Watch for the continuous ads, fl yers and sales or visit their website at www.diplomatpools.com. TO ADVERTISE IN THE HOME SWEET HOME FEATURE CONTACT CHRISTIAN-ANN AT 905-683-5110 Pickering Home & Leisure Centre 401 & Brock Road, Pickering 905-619-4554 Hwy #401 Pickering Home & Leisure Centre Amish Furniture Brock RoadCanadian Tire N BB rin g th e k id s, Brin g t h e ki ds, th ey’ll en jo y o u rthey’ll e nj o y o ur p layro o m w h ile y o u sh o p ! playr o o m w hile y o u s h o p! Back row L to R: Deanna, Dave, Randy, Craig, Luke, Paula, Holly, Rosemarie. Front row L to R: Theresa, Kendra, Jennifer, Donna Why spend all Why spend all weekend shopping weekend shopping for the right piece for the right piece of furniture. of furniture. Come here to choose Come here to choose your style, colour your style, colour and size and enjoy and size and enjoy your weekend. your weekend. Monday to Wednesday 10-6 Thursday, Friday 10-8 Saturday 10-6 Sunday 11-5 Theresa, Sales durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 23 A/P Add Value to Your Home TONi GADZOVSKi,OAA For a consultation call 905-509-9002 architect@gadzovski.com ARCHITECTURE1 Call Robert Kavanagh today for all your mortgage financing needs. 416-414-6815 Your community Royal Bank Mortgage Specialists MORTGAGE SPECIALISTS 3 Quality One Ltd. Realtor Independently Owned & Operated (905)683-5000 (416)566-6120 schisholm@trebnet.com SALES REPRESENTATIVE CHISHOLMCHISHOLM Complimentary cleaning & "dressing" of your home. A houseA house that shows well, sells well.that shows well, sells well. REAL ESTATE 4 Maid Services 905-683-7515 • Serving the Community for over 2 Decades • Caring for your home with personalized, professional service • Very affordable rates. We honour all competitor’s coupons. We will NOT be UNDERSOLD! • WE GUARANTEE OUR SERVICES 18-467 Westney Rd. S., Ajax Bonded & Insured GAILLINDGAILLIND MAID SERVICES5 EVERYBODY WINS WITH S.S .Swim Pools Limitedand 22 Ritson Rd. N., Oshawa www.ssswimpools.com • 905-579-2623 Purchase any Coleman Spa by Dec. 31, 2004 and receive a FREE PLASMA OZONATOR!! BY MAAX SPAS & HOT TUBS 9 Ajax Paint Centre (905)427-3337 12 Harwood S.Ajax Pickering Paint Centre (905)837-0317 1794 Liverpool, Pickering PAINT CENTRE6 GAS FURNACES, GAS FIREPLACES, AIR FILTERS, HUMIDIFERS, INSTALLATIONS & SERVICE, DUCT WORK 905-619-5000 FURNACES & FIREPLACES8DON’T MOVE… IMPROVE! Steve Smith Carpentry Ltd.est.1979 Complete remodeling & improvement service, plus basements and cabinetry etc. 905-427-7400 CARPENTRY7 GARAGE DOOR SERVICES 10 TheTile Shoppe Ceramic • Hardwood Stone • Heated Floors Granite Counter Tops Complete Bathroom Renovations 905-683-0079 Pickering Home & Leisure Centre 1755 Pickering Parkway, Unit 9 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Largest Selection in Durham Free Quotes • Free Design Concept Installation Specialists 11 FLOORING AND BATHROOM RENOVATIONS 11 3 4 SOLD 5 6 This property was financed by 8 9 10 7 1 To advertise in this special feature, call Inside Sales at 905-683-5110 • KITCHENS • MURPHY BEDS • VANITIES 905.839.0574 www.aroundthehome.ca 1550 BAYLY ST., #35, PICKERING KITCHEN RENOVATIONS2 2 A/P PAGE 24 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com durhamregion.com THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 PAGE 25 A/P NAME DROPPING durhamregion.com Te d Baks celebrated his 75th birthday on Feb. 14. Best wishes to Opa came with love from his grandchildren and family. “Feb. 15 was a special day for our sweetheart Chris Papaconstanti- nou, as he celebrated his ninth birthday. Wishing him a happy birthday with lots of love, hugs and kisses were Dad, Mom, sister Steph, and brothers Con, Greg, Zack and Mark. Hope you en- joyed your special day Chris!” Happy ninth birth- day wishes went out to Sebastian on Feb. 22. “Everyday that passes, we thank God for bless- ing us with a healthy, intelligent and beauti- ful child. We cannot believe that nine years have already passed since the day you were born. We love you very much and want to wish you another 100 birthdays to come. With hugs and kisses, love Mommy, Daddy, Nonnas and Nonno, and all your family and friends.” “MacKenzie Earle turned five Feb. 20. You bring so much beauty into all our lives each and every day. Let’s hope you will always be so cheerful, ener- getic and enthusiastic about life as you are today. All our love, Mommy, Daddy, Dal- las, Grandma and Grandpa Sheath and Nanny Earle.” “Happy 16th birthday Kayla. Luv ya, Anj.” “Happy birthday to sweet Nicole Bachan, who celebrated her first birthday Feb. 1. Where has the year gone? We are amazed and thank- ful for you everyday. Yo u make us so happy and laugh at the funny things you do. Lots of love and kisses from Mommy and Daddy.” “Special birthday wishes to our precious little boy, Owen Steen- son, who turned one Jan. 25. You’re Nannie and Poppy’s pride and joy. Lots of love from Nannie and Poppy.” “Happy birthday wish- es are being sent out to Bailey, as she celebrates her 11th birthday Feb. 21. We hope lots of love and fun come your way on your special day! All our love, Mom, Dad and Taylor.” “Happy birthday wishes to Lauren Mc- Carthy, who’s entered the world of double digits! Lauren turned 10 on Feb. 4. Wow! We cannot believe you are 10 already. We are very proud of your excel- lent grades. Hope you had a wonderful time at your sleepover party with your friends. We love you lots, Mommy, Daddy, Megan and family.” “Cassidy turned nine Feb. 21. Happy birthday to our beautiful little princess, whose smile lights up a room and keeps brother Mason on his toes. Never a dull moment with Cass around. Happy birthday Cassidy, hope you had a wonderful day. Love Mom, Dad, Mason and Nicholas.” “Richard and Janice MacKenzie, and Barry and Dianne Hudson, are pleased and proud to announce the en- gagement of their chil- dren Leslie MacKen- zie and Kyle Hudson. Excitement and an- ticipation are building toward the wedding in November 2005.” “O n Feb. 27, 2004, our lives changed forever when we became new parents. The year has flown by, and now our baby, Grant Ross Laf- leur is turning one. We love you with all our heart. All our love, Mommy and Daddy.” “Dreams do come true, now our dream turns two. Happy sec- ond birthday on Feb. 28 to our precious angel Mackenzie. Your beau- tiful smile lights up our lives everyday. Lots of Love from Mommy, Daddy, Nana, Grand- ma, Grandpa and the rest of your family and friends.” “Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Lewis Farrow want to announce the engage- ment of their only daughter, Jenny Eliza- beth Louise Farrow, to David John Ward, the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Wa rd. On Feb. 14 David proposed to Jenny after almost seven years of courtship. No date has been set. However, both families are over- joyed with the engage- ment. Best wishes to Jenny and congratula- tions to David. We wish you both the best for the future. We love you both.” “Feb. 26 is Heather’s sweet 16th birthday. Best wishes from your friends, family and the Burdog.” “Happy sixth birth- day Cody. Lots of big bear hugs for our little soccer player. Love from Mommy, Daddy, Carli, Gramma Mimi and Roxy.” Cody’s birthday is March 3. “Another teenager. On March 3, Adam turns 13. His family and friends would like to wish him happi- ness always. You have grown into a wonder- ful teenager and we are proud of you. Enjoy your birthday and may all your dreams come true.” “To Rob Fontaine, I hope you get every- thing or you have ev- erything that you have wished for. From the bottom of my heart. Happy birthday to you hun. Lots of love, Ter- rine.” “Happy 48th birthday Eddie! Wishing you a happy birthday on Feb. 28 Eddie and many more babe. Wow, you look awesome. No- body could ever guess your age if they tried. We want you to know we love you and are looking so forward to a bright and beautiful future with you. Lots of hugs and kisses from Sonia, Eunice, Ernest, Marcus and Malcolm.” “O n Feb. 23, our pre- cious son Kyle turned eight. Happy birth- day wishes with love from Mommy, Daddy, brother Shawn, Nanny and Poppy.” “Happy first birthday to Austin and Michaela, our dynamic duo, on Feb. 2. You truly are double the joy. Love from big sister Paige, Mommy, Daddy, Nanny, Papa, Auntie Amber and Jay.” A/P PAGE 26 THE NEWS ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 25, 2005 durhamregion.com TT h i s M o n t h s This Months W i n n i n g N u m b e rWinning Number 5 5 6 1 3 7 556137 Join This Group Of Progressive Local Business Who Have Already Signed Up As Advertisers In The Bonuspak Envelope Eric Gawley Wenda Allen Ltd. David Stokes R ouge River Realty Ltd. Dominion Mortgage Corporation Rouge River Realty Ltd. Glenn Guterson Look for BonusPak delivered in February 23rd Newspaper! WIN $100 WIN $100 Plumbing Mart www.bathreno.ca BUSINESS infodurhamregion.com BUSINESS NEWS We want to hear about your business achievements. If you have a story to tell, e-mail dstell@durhamregion.com. But home day cares offer tax write-offs By Jerome Watt Special to the News Advertiser DURHAM — Leslie Brennan en- joys her home-based business. It requires her to play with blocks and perform singalongs with her children and others she cares for. “I love it,” she said. “The day is pretty active, (yet) it’s an awful lot of fun.” Ms. Brennan runs a home child care through Durham Professional Home Day Care in Pickering, a li- censed agency. She began the business, in part, to stay home with her children. “I think the reason anyone would go into this wouldn’t be financial,” she said. “Certainly, at the end of the day, it’s a little income.” As in Ms. Brennan’s case and others, home child cares provide a little extra money and don’t turn huge profits. According to Mary-Lou James, president of the Home Childcare Association of Ontario, a non-profit organization representing over 60 licensed agencies in the province, a 1998 study conducted by the Human Resources and Skills De- partment (HRDC) revealed the av- erage gross income of these provid- ers was $12,900, with a net income of $7,500. Agencies are regulated by the Province under the Day Nurseries Act of Ontario, and providers to these agencies, such as Ms. Bren- nan, must meet a number of stan- dards in order to be contracted. A home child-care centre can operate Play and learning isn’t always profitable Jason Liebregts/ News Advertiser photo Leslie Brennan runs Durham Professional Home Day Care in Pickering and admits she loves her job. There are tax savings to be found in operating a home day care business. :8$"%VSIBNSE"OOVBM 80.&/0'%*45*/$5*0/ "8"3%4%*//&3 !S THE 97#! $URHAM CELEBRATES YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY JOIN US IN CELEBRATING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF WOMEN IN THE $URHAM 2EGION ª