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The Pickering 40 PAGES ✦ Metroland Durham Region Media Group ✦ TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2005 ✦ Optional delivery $6 / Newsstand $1 PICKERING TOWN CENTREPICKERING TOWN CENTRE UPPER LEVEL SEARS WINGUPPER LEVEL SEARS WING 905.420.0744905.420.0744 *Phone prices available only on subscription to a new 36-month service agreement. **$0 offer applies to new 36-month Family Plan secondary line activations. Some features and services included with family plan cannot be accessed with the Firefl y phone. Offer subject to change without notice. iTunes® is a registered trademark of Apple computer, Inc. registered in the U.S. and other countris. © 2005 Firefl y Mobile, Inc. Firefl y and The Mobile Phone for Mobile Kids are the exclusive trademarks of Firefl y Mobile, Inc. ™Rogers, Rogers Wireless, the Mobius design are trademarks of Rogers Communications Inc. used under license. © 2005 Offer Expires December 31/05 Motorola RAZR Looks as hot as it performs $99.99* Was $249.99 Motorola ROKR The only phone with iTunes® $99.99* Special Holiday Pricing FIREFLY The mobile phone for mobile kids $0.00** On a Family Plan Available Black & Silver COME SEE OUR "ROGERS ROBOT" MEGA SAVINGS WED. DEC. 21 4-9 PM $35.00 Bill Credit With any new activation. See store for details [ Briefly ] Food, toy drives help shelters DURHAM — With non- perishable food items and un- wrapped toy donations, residents can brighten the holiday season for those in need. Through a Holiday Food and To y Drive Campaign launched by women’s shelter employees, items will be collected and donat- ed to six local shelters in Durham Region. Donations can be delivered to: • Women’s Multicultural Re- source and Counselling Centre of Durham -- call 905-427-7849 for a drop-off location and time. • Bowmanville’s St. Paul’s United Church at 178 Church St., Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. • Oshawa’s Durham Non- Profit Housing, 28A Albert St., Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; the Oshawa Centre, Office Galleria, Suite 104, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and The Law Office of Gail McCrae, 57 Simcoe St. S., Suite H, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Whitby’s CUPE Local 1764, 11 Stanley Crt., Unit 9, Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and the Whitby Barber Shop, 219 Dundas St. E., Tuesday to Satur- day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. [ What’s on ] Great g ift idea FORE golfers DURHAM — Golfers can save money as a Community Care Durham supporter. By purchasing a $49.95 cou- pon book, golfers receive greens fee discounts across Ontario. A portion of the proceeds are donated to Community Care Dur- ham, Ajax/Pickering. For orders, call 905- 837-0017 ext. 226 or e-mail htim@communitycaredurham. on.ca. [ Index ] Editorial Page, 4 Sports, 7 Classified, 9 Entertainment, 12 [ Call us] General: 905 683 5110 Distribution: 905 683 5117 General Fax: 905 683 7363 Newsroom Fax: 905 683 0386 Pressrun 48,900 infodurhamregion.com 905-683-3210, CHURCH ST. BAYLY, AJAX ANNANDALE GOLF & CURLING Give the Gift of Golf from $395 plus GST Men’s & Ladies Memberships Or a round of Golf from $40 Give you home a new look for Winter NATIONALS BOUND Pickering skater books her ticket Page 7 LOOKING BACK Struggle in a world of compassion Page 6 COVETED The Corvette is in demand Wheels pullout Missing persons report helps police Officials hope review of Safe Schools Act brings more programs By Crystal Crimi Staff Writer DURHAM — Durham school boards would like to see more funding for cor- rections programs come out of a Safe Schools Act review. Introduced in 2000, the zero-toler- ance Safe Schools Act is up for provin- cial review for the first time since being implemented. Durham Catholic and Durham District school board officials recently attended a public consultation session held as part of the analysis. “We see a lot of positives under the Safe Schools Act,” said Joe Hircock, a Durham District School Board superin- tendent. But Mr. Hircock and Paul Pulla, a Durham Catholic District School Board superintendent, both said they’d like to see more programs and funding for cor- rective behaviour initiatives considered through the review. Mr. Pulla said in Durham, boards re- ceive grants to develop programs such as the Return Ticket, but it’s not com- mon for all boards. He wants to see more resources made available for schools to deal with serious student behaviour as soon as possible so the issue can be tackled before it gets to high school. Mr. Pulla also wants to see more pre- cise information gathered pertaining to the act. Although provincial data shows Body found in north Pickering identified as Keswick man; c ause of death to be determined By Jeff Mitchell Staff Writer PICKERING — Police have identi- fied the man whose beaten body was found in rural Pickering a couple of weeks ago. A missing persons report filed in York Region led investigators to positively identify the Keswick man, whose body was found in a wooded area Dec. 8, said homicide Detective Leon Lynch. The body is that of Shawn Douse, 35. “He was reported missing in York Region last Thursday night,” Det. Ly nch said. The man was known to police in Yo rk Region. A cause of death has yet to be de- termined. But investigators have said the black man, who stood around 5-foot- 2, had obviously been beaten. The man’s remains are still being exam- ined, Det. Lynch said. “A t this point in time we don’t have a cause of death,” Det. Lynch said. “They’re still doing some testing at the coroner’s office.” Mr. Douse’s remains were found in a remote area of Pickering, a few hundred metres east of the York-Dur- ham Line and just north of Conces- sion 3, by a man walking his dogs. Police quickly labelled the death a homicide. Police continue to seek informa- tion from anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area. Anyone with information is asked to call Det. Lynch at 905-683-9100, ext. 5418, Det. Doug Parker at ext. 5223, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800- 222-8477. Pickering students, staff and parents show support for expansion By Crystal Crimi Staff Writer PICKERING — Frenchman’s Bay Public School is making its case for more space. Waving red cardboard banners, students, parents and staff joined the school’s community council chair- man, Richard Boire, to try and con- vince trustees of the need for an expansion of the Pickering school. They made their case at the Dec. 5 Durham District School Board policy committee meeting. For its student population, French- man’s Bay has “serious deficiencies” and structure limitations, said Mr. Boire. He added there’s also a lack of stor- age space because they are in such “c ramped quarters”. To help prove the school’s case, pictures were shown of the tight areas throughout the school, such as the library. “A lot of people have to stand and read,” said Justin Pilon, a Grade 8 stu- dent. “There’s no space in the library for me to be able to do research on the computer.” Because the gym is so small, the school has to pay presenters twice as much because there is not enough room to provide programs to all stu- dents at once, said Mr. Boire. “This is our stage; it looks like a storage room,” said student Katrina Paterson. She said the lack of storage space makes it hard to organize and prop- erly store supplies. Justin added students are unable to fully express themselves through pro- grams because there is not enough space to store equipment. Mr. Boire added it’s not just a gym or a library thing. “It speaks to the space issues which the school is so drastically in need of,” said Mr. Boire. He said there is also no central of- fice area or sick bay for students, and computers have to be shared by two or three students at a time. The school was built in 1965 for about 650 students and the popula- tion will grow to around 900 in 2010, whereas other school populations in the area are flattening out, said Mr. Boire. The only options to solve the space problems are to move a program such as the gifted one out, do an addition or build a new school, said Mr. Boire. Favourable reviews in Pickering for OMB changes By Danielle Milley Staff Writer DURHAM — Local mayors are wel- coming the Province’s announcement that it is refining the role of the Ontario Municipal Board -- something local politicians have wanted for a while. “I’m pleased the Province is listen- ing to municipalities,” said Pickering Mayor Dave Ryan. “We have been, I think, unanimous in our concern with the veto power of the OMB. This is a good response to our concerns; it al- lows flexibility.” Ajax Mayor Steve Parish said turning the OMB back to a true appeal body, as opposed to an alternate decision-mak- ing body, is what GTA municipalities wanted. “The changes that are being pro- posed are very positive,” he said. “They’re largely in conformity with recommendations we made from the GTA task force on OMB reform.” The proposed legislation introduced Monday would clarify the role of the OMB and protect local decision mak- ing by: returning the OMB to its origi- nal role as an appeal body on local planning matters, not the main deci- sion maker; requiring the OMB to give greater weight to the decisions of local councils during the appeal process and limit appeals to information and materials that were provided to the council when it made its decision; and enabling municipalities to establish local appeal bodies for some planning decisions, such as minor variances. Mayor Ryan said council was roll- ing the dice when it made decisions not all parties agreed with, but the proposed changes will give councils and residents more confidence in local Fr enchman’s Bay makes its case for space School boards want more opportunity for correction ✦ See Changes, Page 2✦ See No, Page 2 ✦ See Trustee, Page 2 A WARM-HEARTED GROUP A.J. Groen/ News Advertiser photo PICKERING — The Crochet Club at Highbush Public School made 50 scarves and 30 hats that members then donated to the Salvation Army to be distributed to homeless people. Modelling some of their work are from the left, Ally Timal, Liz Munro, Gillian Sapounakis and teacher Victoria Petrogiani. planning decisions. Mayor Parish said he thought the legislation might prevent councils from making decisions based on NIMBYism because those are the kind of decisions that could be overturned. “(Citizens will) have a greater re- sponsibility on them to act responsibly and reasonably and try to find good solutions that are supportable on the evidence,” he said. One area Ajax is hoping this will help with is cases that go to the OMB where developers try to convert employment land to residential. Mayor Parish said in the Town try- ing to preserve employment land, several ap- plications have already gone to the board. The pro- posed legisla- tion would also reform Ontario’s land-use plan- ning system by: giving local councils and residents more say in how their communities grow by re- quiring municipalities to have up-to- date official plans; allowing councils to consider architectural and design features as a condition of planning ap- proval and to improve innovative and energy efficient buildings and commu- nities or neighbourhoods; making it easier for municipalities to redevelop brownfields; and by giving munici- palities the ability to promote the use of innovative ideas and technologies, such as solar panels, through land-use planning decisions. Mayor Ryan said those added tools in terms of architecture and innova- tive technology are important and he’s been advocating for them. “The City of Pickering has already been looking at innovative ways of adding new technology to develop- ment,” he said. Council has been par- ticularly pushing for this for the devel- opment about to occur in Seaton in the near future. Mayor Parish also welcomed the ad- ditional powers when it came to design and streetscape. Other provisions in the proposed legislation would improve the effec- tiveness of conservation easements as a tool to support the long-term stew- ardship and protection of agricultural lands, natural heritage areas and im- portant watershed features on private lands in Ontario. P PAGE 2 ◆ NEWS ADVERTISER ◆ DECEMBER 20, 2005 CANADIAN TIRE PICKERING 1735 Pickering Parkway • 905-686-2308 During the holiday season there is often a tendency to forget those in need before and after Christmas. In response to the year-round need for assistance, charitable organizations across Durham Region will be receiving a welcome donation from Canadian Tire Pickering and the Canadian Tire Foundation for Families. Just recently, Canadian Tire Associate Dealer William Graham presented the above organizations with over $1,700.00 each, to help them continue their critical work. Th e Canadian Tire Foundation for Families is a charitable organization with a clear objective: helping families when they need it most. Money is raised locally by Canadian Tire staff through bake sales, car washes, bike helmet and artifi cial Christmas tree purchases and is matched by the Associate Dealer and again by the Corporate Offi ce. Canadian Tire Pickering management and staff present Herizon House, Big Brothers and Sisters of Ajax/Pickering, and St. Paul’s on the Hill Food Bank with holiday help from Canadian Tire Pickering and Canadian Tire Foundation for Families. CANADIAN TIRE PICKERING ONLY 1735 Pickering Parkway (at Brock Road), Pickering • 905-686-2308 Holiday Hours: Dec. 21-23 • 8:30am - 11pm; Dec. 24 • 8:30am - 5pm; Dec. 25 Closed; Dec 26 8am - 5pm $5 HELP A FAMILY Buy an artifi cial tree 41/2’ or taller and we’ll donate to charities through the when you use the Options® MasterCard® Card We’ll double our donation to All artifi cial trees on sale some up to 50% o f f Your LED Light Headquarters on all our CSA approved Noma LED Light sets 25%SAVEGI L B E RT AP P R O V ED“ISm e l l Gift s!”THE LAST MINUTE WRAP-UP SALE TIMED SPECIALS 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 8:00 PM 8:00 PM 8:00 PM 9:00 PM 9:00 PM 9:00 PM THURS, DEC 22 ONLY FRI, DEC 23 ONLYWED, DEC 21 ONLY 10x 25mm Compact Binoculars $999 Reg $22.99 76-1040-8 Socket Set $2999 Reg $79.99 58-9177-0 Cinderella Doll With Three Outfi ts $999 Reg $24.99 50-3404-2 Disney Princess Playset $1999 Reg $49.99 • 50-3197-4 Mastercraft 29-piece Screwdriver Bit Wrench with bits $1249 Reg $24.99 58-8626-8 Stainless Steel Mug & Flask $699 Reg $19.99 37-1298-0 Remote Car Starter $3999 Reg $59.99 • 34-0737-8 $999 Reg $19.99 43-0499-2 Top Flite Z-Balata Golf Balls $999 Reg $29.99 86-1621-2 SmartBrew 5-cup Coffeemaker 400-Piece Poker Chip Set $2999 Reg $69.99 • 84-3817-0 $699 Glass Panini Press $5999 Reg $119.99 43-1143-2 5-Piece BBQ Tool Set Reg $27.99 85-1784-6 Play-Doh Playset $899 Reg $22.99 50-3364-6 Jobmate 88-Piece Socket Set $999 Reg $39.99 58-9036-6 Gerber Soltice 5 Component Multi-Tool $999 Reg $29.99 75-6038-8 Te xas Hold-Em Poker Pack $499 Reg $9.99 50-6030-2 6-Piece Light & Decor Pack $6999 Reg $99.99 52-3176-0 Curtis CD/AM/FM Clock Radio $1999 Reg $29.99 99-1561-4 Penny Racers Demolition Derby $999 Reg $29.99 50-3241-8 1L Stainless Steel Whistling Kettle $999 Reg $23.99 42-0406-6 Escort 9.5’x9’ Dome Tent $6499 Reg $129.99 76-5038-2 Power Racers Race Car Set $1999 Reg $49.99 50-6184-6 Laser Level With Tripod $1999 Reg $39.99 57-4537-6 Dunlop Sports Bag $599 Reg $14.99 89-9155-8 3 Second Corkscrew $799 Reg $19.99 42-4990-8 Jumbo Pooh & Friends $999 Reg $29.99 50-3248-4 CD Storage Combo Pack $999 Reg $19.99 44-0767-2 OPEN DEC. 21 - 23 TILL 11PM Hurry in for best selection. Quanities are limited. Sorry, no rainchecks. The school has already had lots of money invested for maintenance so it probably makes more sense to ex- pand than tear down and build big- ger, he said. Pickering Trustee Sherry Croteau said the school is physically tired. “You’ll continue to have our com- plete support in this,” she said, refer- ring to herself and fellow Pickering Trustee Paul Crawford. She invited all of the board’s trust- ees to visit Frenchman’s Bay and see the space issues first-hand. ✦ Trustee from page 1 Trustee invites others to visit OMB changes could result in ‘short-term thinking’ DURHAM — Local developers are worried “short-term thinking” may cloud a proposed local appeal board if changes to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) go ahead. The head of the Durham Region Home Builders’ Association says councils may focus solely on their own goals rather than the big picture set out by the Province when it comes to planning if local appeal boards are set up. “We’re a little concerned about this,” said Sal Ruscica. “Historically, there’s been concern with local councils and short-term thinking in terms of what they want. The local people are always going to be more concerned about what’s good for their community. “We’re not sure, in light of good planning, if that’s the right way to go.” There are also questions around who will decide what is a minor and major planning application, Mr. Rus- cica said. He stressed it is difficult to comment without specific details on the changes. The OMB has long been thought to be developer-friendly, and controver- sial projects opposed by local councils and residents have frequently been approved there. In Durham, the village of Brooklin is an example. The Region did not want it to be developed as quickly or as thoroughly as developers proposed, but lost at the OMB. Durham Region planners have pointed to a problematic clause that allows developers to immediately ap- peal to the OMB if applications are not processed in 90 days, and have asked for more time. Mr. Ruscica said the move “may happen occasionally,” but doesn’t feel developers take advan- tage of it. “It’s designed to be an impartial third party,” he said. “I think that’s why we’re so in support of it.” Mr. Ruscica is in favour of proposed changes to OMB members, including more training in land use planning, lengthening terms and reviewing per- formance. B uilders concerned about appeals Changes bring more responsibility for citizens ✦ Changes from page 1 Dave Ryan the number of suspensions delivered since the Safe Schools Act was imple- mented, it doesn’t show the length of each. According to a memorandum Mr. Pulla provided to Catholic board trust- ees, the board’s data had similar trends to provincial numbers. In the 2000-01 school year, the Dur- ham Catholic District School Board’s suspension rate was six per cent and the province’s was 5.3; for 2001-02 it was 7.5 and the province’s 6.9; in 2002-03 it was 8.6 and the province’s was 7.6 and in 2003-2004, it was 8.2 and the prov- ince’s was 7.2. A provincial report lists the public board’s suspension rates as 8.2 per cent for 2000-01, 8.5 per cent for 2001-02, 9.3 per cent for 2002-03 and 8.8 per cent for 2003- 04. Mr. Hircock said 60 per cent of the stu- dents who receive one-day suspensions don’t repeat the offence. Prior to the Safe Schools Act, schools had codes of conduct that varied, said Mr. Pulla. “We see no sign of increase or de- crease one way or another,” said Mr. Hircock, referring to the amount of sus- pensions and expulsions before the Safe Schools Act. The act has mitigating circumstances embedded in it, and boards are able to look at each case on its own merit and complete in-school investigations to consider individual factors, said Mr. Pulla. Mr. Hircock said the public board also uses progressive discipline pro- grams to relate consequences to the fre- quency of inappropriate behaviour. ✦ No from page 1 No signs of increase or decrease with schools act Joe Hircock P PAGE 3 ◆ NEWS ADVERTISER ◆ DECEMBER 20, 2005 SANTA’S HOURS Wed., December 21 10:00am - 9:00pm Thurs., December 22 10:00am - 9:00pm Fri., December 23 10:00am - 9:00pm Sat., December 24 9:30am - 2:00pm L ast chance Man in Red to see the Santa Claus from THE NORTH POLE Log on to pickeringtowncentre.com for a listing of our PExtended Holiday Shopping Hours*/463"/$&'*/"/$*"- '*345%63)". F irst in Security Information available at: www.fi rstdurham.com 1 800 387-4189 905 427-5888 F irst Durham Insurance & Financial Understands Your Insurance Needs ... √ Auto Insurance rates have dropped – You can save $$$ √ Don’t sacrifi ce service in order to save money √ Your Personal Advisor looks after your needs √ Call us to save time & money – we’ll fi nd the right fi t for you As one of Durham’s largest & most experienced insurance brokerages, our strengths can work for you. If it can be done, we have the resources to do it! Auto • Property • Commercial • Financial Planning • Group WITH AUTO RATES DROPPING – ARE YOU PAYING TOO MUCH??? RACI*S WAREHOUSERACI*S WAREHOUSE 1725 Kingston Road, Unit 18, Pickering (Mandarin Plaza, Brock & Kingston Rd.) • 905-619-9739 Mon.- Sat. 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Sun. 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm.Durham Region’s FIRSTDurham Region’s FIRST Clothing Warehouse ENTIRE STORE from $1.99-$9.99 Durham Region’s FIRST Boxing Day Sale ALL Ladie’s sweaters & pants $599 ALL kid’s pants ALL kid’s fl eece tops & sweaters $599 Men’s tops & sweaters starting at $299 Men’s pants & denim starting at $299 each nothing over $5.99 nothing over $9.99 BOXING WEEKSavingsSavingsON NOW!! your first contact for help Connecting you 24/7 to information about mental health services and supports in your community and across Ontario. Free. Confidential. Anonymous. 1-866-531-2600 www.mhsio.on.ca 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 Tu esday, December 20, 2005 News Advertiser * Delivered to selected households only Ajax and Pickering locations Ajax 10 Cinemas 248 Kingston Rd. East Natasha Wednesday’s carrier of the week is Natasha . She enjoys dancing & swimming. She will receive a dinner & movie voucher compliments of McDonald’s & Cineplex Odeon Ajax. Congratulations Natasha for being our Carrier of the Week. Your Carrier will be around to collect an optional delivery charge of $ 6.00 between December 14 - December 18/05 * Airwick Ajax/Pick. * Best Buy Ajax/Pick. * Black’s Photography Ajax/Pick. * Canadian Tire Ajax/Pick. * Future Shop Ajax/Pick. * Giant Tiger Ajax * Home Depot Ajax/Pick. * News Advertiser Flyer Ajax/Pick. * Panago Ajax Real Estate Ajax/Pick. * Roo’s Family Fitness Ajax * Santa’s Choice Ajax * Sears Ajax/Pick. * Square Boy Pizza Ajax * The Bay Ajax/Pick. * The Source by Circuit City Ajax/Pick. Wheels Ajax/Pick. * Zellers Ajax/Pick. CORRECTION NOTICE To our valued customers: We apologize for any inconvenience caused by an error in our flyer dated: December 16-22. No interest, no payments for 36 months on all TVs. This financing offer from p. 1 of our December 16th flyer is invalid. The actual offer is for No interest with equal payments for 36 months on all TVs over $1000. CORRECTION NOTICE To our valued customers: We apologize for any inconvenience caused by an error in our flyer dated: December 16-22. Product: VGi 512MB SD Ultra High Speed 150x Memory Card. This product is advertised for $59.99 after a $15 savings on p. 20 of our December 16th flyer. In fact, it is $59.99 after a $10 savings. SKU: 512-SD: 10068465 CORRECTION NOTICE We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused our valued customers and thank you for your patience. Digimate 20” LCD TV DGL20: 10060910 Due to shipping delays at the manufacturer, this product will not be available as advertised on p. 2 of our December 26th flyer. In lieu, customers may purchase the Proview 20” LCD (10061691) at the advertised $399.99 price. You’re still working when you’re celebrating with colleagues By Pam Clavir Special to the News Advertiser DURHAM — When it comes to company parties, one thing is defi- nite: don’t let it all hang loose. That’s the word from Trillium Col- lege business instructor Virginia Vranckx, who says it’s important to remember that even though you are at a party, you are still socializing with business associates, which es- sentially means you are working. “When you return to work on Mon- day,” she says, “people won’t turn off their memory. Everyone will remem- ber the way you dressed and the way you acted at that party. You want to have fun, but at the same time, you want to keep your professional repu- tation.” A business instructor at Trillium for the past five years, Ms. Vranckx says that while your party attire should be festive, you shouldn’t wear a really wild colour or show too much skin, including excess cleavage. She says your regular workplace dress code should provide clues as to how to dress for your company party. Women who work in the fashion in- dustry for instance, can wear a short skirt if that is the latest trend. A short skirt however, might be inappropri- ate at a party for those in the funeral parlour business. No matter what you wear to your company party, you may find your- self battling shyness. “My best advice,” offers Ms. Vranckx, “is to remember that ev- eryone in the room ends up in that kind of situation at some point in their life, so you’re not alone. Even company presidents have felt like wallflowers.” Once you recognize that fact, you have a couple of options. Yo u can start your own conversa- tion group by approaching someone else who is alone and making a com- ment about the food, the décor, the party or even the weather. Then, you both can welcome other “wallflow- ers” into your group. Or, if you want to join five or six chatting people, go up to them, keep quiet, and listen to the conversation. Eventually, some- one will make eye contact with you, and you can respond. While it is business that draws peo- ple together for a corporate party, you shouldn’t talk only about busi- ness. Vicki Samson of TLC Services in Pickering is a concierge/personal assistant (or a fairy godmother, as she calls herself) who knows how to bring the art of networking to a new level. She says that while a party is supposed to be a good time, you can also lay the foundation for pos- sible future business. But never let business occupy more than 50 per cent of the conversation, she advises. According to Ms. Samson, it’s “abso- lutely appropriate” to socialize at a company function. After introducing yourself, ask the person about their job. Then, re- quest their business card. Comment on their interesting line of work, and then proceed to build rapport by ask- ing about their family, where they live, etc. And, if you say you will be in touch, make sure you keep your word. But don’t wait longer than two weeks to make contact just to ensure that you aren’t forgotten. After that, you can send a friendly e-mail or informative e-zine once or twice a year. An e-zine might contain tips, trends, discounts, or other informa- tion based on your business. At the bottom of each e-zine, give recipi- ents the option of being removed from your e-mail list. The special art to networking, Ms. Samson says, is to find a reason to stay in touch. “If you read that the person re- ceived an award or their company was recognized for something, send that person a congratulatory e-mail or note.” So what exactly is proper business party etiquette? Have fun, but don’t overdo it. How to party like a pro A.J. Groen/ News Advertiser photo Vicki Samson owns TLC Services in Pickering where she acts as a concierge-personal assistant for hire. Jason Liebregts/ News Advertiser photo A festive time of year PICKERING — Ipyana Viscardi, front, with Alexandra Reid, left, and Alicia Bucknail get into the Christmas spirit and dance to the entertainment at the Pickering Winterfest activities held earlier this month in Esplanade Park. PICKERING NEWS ADVERTISER 905-683-5110 www.durhamregion.comCATCH UP ONLINE AT Call us at 905-683-5110 NEWS ADVERTISER A/P PAGE 4 ◆NEWS ADVERTISER ◆DECEMBER 20, 2005 I ’ve been reading about “coincidence” lately. Specifically, how coinci- dences may be much more than simple happenstance or lucky occurrences. That they may, in fact, be signposts from the universe pointing us in a certain direc- tion, notices that are flashing around us all the time, in mul- titudes, if we have the eyes to see them. For instance, I’m in the gro- cery store and, en route to the checkout, I get the niggling feeling I’ve forgotten some- thing. I suddenly find myself in the book section where a nearly naked woman is beckoning to me from the cover of a men’s magazine. I stare long and hard, for no other reason than I believe coincidence may be at play here. And sure enough, after an hour or two of flip- ping through the magazine it occurs to me I have forgot- ten to purchase some chicken breasts. I pick up some thighs and a rump roast as well. The universe can be very persuasive. I had just such a wonderful coincidence happen to me the other day. I was driving along down- town and I was thinking about Christmas, thinking about how I really wanted this one to be special, memorable. To that end, I was running a bunch of festive scenarios through my head such as: tak- ing the family out sledding or having a huge drop-in with loads of friends and a buffet of culinary delights or getting everyone on my list the abso- lute perfect gift. In fact I was starting to feel stressed. It was as though, if these things didn’t happen, Christ- mas would somehow not be up to snuff. In the middle of this grow- ing worry I stopped my car to let a couple of pedestrians cross in front of me. Two peo- ple, a man and a woman, were cruising across the road, side by side, in a couple of those electric tricycles one often sees seniors driving along in. This was a rough part of town and these two were what one might describe as “hard characters.” The woman was gaunt and hollow-eyed with stringy hair, frayed jeans, tattered nylon hockey jacket and unlaced running shoes. The man was overweight and shapeless, unshaven, and wearing a stained pair of sweatpants that showed a generous portion of his ample backside. Both had cigarettes dan- gling from their lips. I’ve seen a thousand charac- ters like these two in my daily drives and there was nothing really remarkable about this pair. There was nothing there that would make me stop and take a second look. Except, I did notice some- thing. Each of them had a wire basket on the front of their trike, loaded with goodies. The man had a six-pack of beer and a bag of chips. She had a carton of smokes, a fifth of booze and a bag of candy canes. They were getting ready for Christmas. Then the universe tapped me on the shoulder. Halfway across the road, the path narrowed around a lump of ice. The man stopped and, with an affectionate pat on the woman’s back, beckoned her to go first. She flashed him a gap-toothed but loving smile, and off they went. I felt a bit like the Grinch then, straddling Mount Crum- pet and suddenly understand- ing how the “Whos” could still celebrate Christmas without all the “packages, boxes or bags.” And just as suddenly my own Christmas slipped gently into its own perspective. What a coincidence. Durham resident Neil Crone, actor-comic-writer, saves some of his best lines for his col- umns. Follow Neil’s BLOG drinfo.ca/croneblog.html EDITORIAL LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Coincidence can be a wonderful thingIN THE COMMUNITY CLICK AND SAY This Week’s Question: Are you worried about the eco- nomic future of Durham Region in the wake of job cut an- nouncements and closings? Yes Somewhat No Cast your vote online at infodurhamregion.com Last Week’s Question: Do you favour the construction of more nuclear reactors in Durham Region to meet Ontario’s future energy needs? Votes cast: 770 Yes: 80.8 % No: 19.2 % Raising some dough John Wiersma, chairman of the United Way of Ajax-Pickering- Uxbridge’s 2005 campaign, slices up a personal pie at Topper’s Pizza - Ajax. The restaurant and Green Thumb Florist held a Dec. 11 fund- raiser to support the campaign, and it’s expected to garner more than $1,000. Gwen Noble, the United Way’s resource development manager, shared the photo. To see more photos from residents across Durham and to submit your own, visit citizenseye.com, the Metroland Durham Region Media Group’s newest initiative. The web page is dedicated to the submissions and photos of readers from around Durham. Do you have a photo to share with our readers? If you have an amusing, interesting, historic or scenic photo to share with the community we’d like to see it. Send your photo, along with a written description of the circumstances surrounding the photo (max. 80 words) identifying the people in the photo and when it was taken to: The News Advertiser, 130 Commercial Ave., Ajax, ON, L1S 2H5. Or, e-mail photos to tdoyle@durhamregion.com. Neil Crone enter laughing EDITORIALS & OPINIONS infodurhamregion.com [ Proud Members Of ]-- ONTARIO PRESS COUNCIL NEWSADVERTISER Metroland Durham Region Media Group Tim Whittaker Publisher twhittaker@durhamregion.com Joanne Burghardt Editor-in-Chief jburghardt@durhamregion.com Tony Doyle Managing Editor tdoyle@durhamregion.com Duncan Fletcher Director of Advertising dfletcher@durhamregion.com Andrea McFater Retail Advertising Manager amcfater@durhamregion.com Eddie Kolodziejcak Classified Advertising ekolo@durhamregion.com Abe Fakhourie Distribution Manager afakhourie@durhamregion.com Lillian Hook Office Manager lhook@durhamregion.com Cheryl Haines Composing Manager chaines@durhamregion.com Janice O’Neil Composing Manager joneil@durhamregion.com [ Contact us ]-- News/Sales 905-683-5110 Classifieds 905-683-0707 Distribution 905-683-5117 News Fax 905-683-0386 General Fax 905-683-7363 E-mail tdoyle@durhamregion.com Web address durhamregion.com Mailing Address 130 Commercial Ave., Ajax, Ont. L1S 2H5 Publications Mail Sales Agreement Number 1332791 [ Hours ]-- General office: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Distribution: Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. [ About Us ]-- The News Advertiser is one of the Metroland Printing, Publishing and Distributing group of news- papers. The News Advertiser is a member of the Ajax & Pickering Board of Trade, Ontario Commu- nity Newspaper Assoc., Canadian Community 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 addresses reader complaints about member newspapers.The publisher reserves the right to classify or refuse any advertise- ment. Credit for advertisement limited to space price error oc- cupies. Editorial and Advertising content of the News Advertiser is copyrighted. Unauthorized repro- duction is prohibited. [ 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 Time for the beef Local candidates need to show voters where they stand on a number of important issues The preliminaries are over, the three-weeks of getting ready are done and now, to paraphrase a sporting cliche, ladies and gentlemen, start your campaigns. With an eight-week federal election campaign to deal with, not to mention several weeks of holidays right in the middle, it’s not overly surprising local candidates haven’t exactly knocked our doors off with policy statements and bright ideas about how to get Durham going. Recent election campaigns have been around five weeks in length -- a date we hit on the calendar yesterday -- a more reason- able amount of time during which to campaign and make a case for election. In Durham’s six federal ridings, many of the same candidates are back to try again after the last election, just 18 months ago. All six incumbents have returned, eager to win re-election. Many of the challengers are the same as well, so this campaign will require plenty of work from all involved to avoid a straight rerun of June 2004. It will mean making the case to strengthen the auto industry. Durham is largely dependent on the health of General Motors and its suppliers. What ideas do candidates have to maintain and improve GM’s position in Canada and in the world? Environmental concerns are always near the top of the agenda. With our location on Lake Ontario and the condition of our lake- fronts, are candidates willing to go to Ottawa to push hard to get federal funding to help with cleanup and development? Health care is always a top priority with young and old alike. While health care is administered by the Province, much of the funding for it comes from Ottawa. That means federal candidates should have a plan to deal with the stresses the system faces and a goal of making sure enough funding flows to Ontario to make sure Durham’s citizens are prop- erly looked after. Our cities and towns could also use a little more gas tax money -- are candidates showing leadership in going after it? So far, it’s been pretty quiet in most ridings. Candidates, with a fixed amount of money to spend, may be saving up to crank out new flyers, replacement signs for the ravages of winter, and adver- tising. But we’re well into this campaign and it’s time to find out where these candidates stand on local issues and what they plan to do. Expansion needed To the editor: As members of the Rouge Va lley Ajax and Pickering (RVAP) mental health ser- vice advisory committee, we wish to stress our support for the much-needed redevelop- ment of our local hospital, specifically the mental health services expansion. Strong mental health ser- vices are needed to serve the growing population that is being served by RVAP. That’s why the redevelop- ment project at our local hos- pital is so important. The redevelopment project will bring nine new inpatient mental health beds, more space for outpatient care and a better-designed nursing station so staff can work more efficiently and effectively. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, it is estimated that one in five Canadians will develop a mental illness at some time in their lives. Mental illness indirectly af- fects all Canadians at some time through a family mem- ber, friend or colleague; it af- fects people of all ages, edu- cational and income levels, and cultures. The Region of Durham website puts the popula- tion at 531,000 in May 2001 and states that it will rise to 760,000 in 2011 and 970,000 people in 2021. In 2001-02, the profession- als at RVAP cared for 744 mental health crisis patients. In mid-2005, that number had risen to 1,002. Annually, the psychiatrists have 12,850 visits to their of- fices. This rising population will need even more access to in- patient mental health beds, psychiatric services and out- patient programming. Any delay in adding these services at our local hospital will only promote more men- tal health issues. We urge Pickering-Ajax-Ux- bridge MPP Wayne Arthurs, Minister of Health George Smitherman and Minister of Public Infrastructure and Renewal David Caplan to ap- prove this project and ensure that the residents of West Durham get the services they need and deserve. Fay Spurway Chairwoman, the Rouge Va lley Ajax and Pickering Mental Health Service Advisory Committee What about adults? To the editor: Re: ‘Transit fare hikes com- ing in phases,’ Dec. 2. First of all, I am glad that Ajax Mayor Steve Parish stood up for two-thirds of the community of Ajax and Pick- ering riders, but the adult population was left out. I am wondering why was there no attempt to assist with phas- ing in the adult fare too. Ye s, the students are try- ing to get an education to get somewhere in life, and the seniors have retired and are on a limited income, but the adults have been forgotten about. What about the ones who are working just above or at the minimum wage, or are on social services or dis- ability? How are they sup- posed to make a living if they cannot afford the transporta- tion to get to their place of employment? Anna Borchuk Ajax P PAGE 5 ◆ NEWS ADVERTISER ◆ DECEMBER 20, 2005 AT TEND PUBLIC MEETINGS AT CITY HALL All meetings are open to the public. For meeting details call 905.420.2222 or visit our website DATE MEETING TIME Jan. 09 Executive Committee 7:30 pm Jan. 12 Pickering Advisory Committee 7:00 pm On Race Relations & Equity Jan. 16 Management Forum Meeting 1:30 pm Jan. 19 Statutory Public Information Meeting 7:00 pm 905.420.2222 cityofpickering.com 24 Hour Access 905.420.4660 Cultural Displays Kwanzaa, Chanukah @ City Hall for December Celebrating our cultural traditions 905.420.4620 ext. 2099 WINTER 2005/2006REGISTER NOW FOR WINTER Leisure & Aquatic Programs Programs, Workshops & Memberships for every age & ability Makes a great gift! 5 Simple Ways to Register Te le-Reg from Home, Fax, Mail, In Person, or Drop-off Call 905.420.4621 for Registration Information cityofpickering.com City of Pickering Holiday Operating Hours CIVIC COMPLEX (CITY HALL) Dec. 23 8:30 am - 12 noon Dec. 26 & 27 CLOSED Dec. 30 8:30 am - 12 noon Jan. 2 CLOSED RECREATION COMPLEX 905.831.1711 Dec. 24 7:00 am - 12 noon Dec. 25 & 26 CLOSED Dec. 31 7:00 am - 5:00 pm 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm New Year's Eve Free Activities Jan. 1 CLOSED Dec. 27, 28, 29 & 30 OPEN Child Supervision A.M. Only RECREATION COMPLEX POOL Dec. 23, 27, 28, 29 & 30, Jan 2 -6 OPEN 6:00 am - 10:00 pm Dec. 24, 25 & 26 CLOSED Dec. 31 OPEN 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm New Year's Eve Free Swim Jan. 1 CLOSED DUNBARTON POOL Dec. 22 - Jan. 3 CLOSED RECREATION COMPLEX ARENA PUBLIC SKATING SCHEDULE Dec. 27, 28, 29 & 30 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Tim Horton's Free Skate Dec. 25 & 26 CLOSED Dec. 31 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm New Year's Eve Free Family Count Down Skate Jan. 1 CLOSED PICKERING MUSEUM VILLAGE CLOSED EMERGENCY SERVICES City of Pickering Emergency Telephone Number is 905.683.4319 PICKERING PUBLIC LIBRARIES CENTRAL BRANCH & PETTICOAT CREEK Dec. 24 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Dec. 25, 26 & 27 CLOSED Dec. 31 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Jan. 1 & 2 CLOSED CLAREMONT, GREENWOOD, WHITEVALE Contact branch for Holiday Hours AJAX PICKERING TRANSIT AUTHORITY Dec. 24 No Dial-A-Bus Service. Dec. 25 No Service. Dec. 26 Regular Saturday Service. No Specialized Services. Pre- booked Dialysis. Dec. 27 Extended Saturday Service starting at 6:00 am. Specialized Services. Pre-booked Dialysis only. Jan. 1 No Service. Free Dial-A-Bus 8:00 pm - 1:00 am Jan. 2 Extended Saturday Service. Specialized Services. Pre-booked Dialysis only. Help a Senior by shovelling snow. Volunteers Call 905.420.4660 ext. 6100 CULTURE & RECREATION DIVISION The City of Pickering is hiring Camp Staff for March Break and Summer 2006 MARCH BREAK CAMP MARCH 13th – 17th SUMMER CAMP JULY 3rd – SEPTEMBER 1st Camp staff will be required to plan, organize and implement specific activities & special events for the 2006 March Break and Summer Camp Programs. Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be considered for employment in these positions: •At the time of the interview, candidates must be enrolled in a secondary, post-secondary, or other educational program and have full intention of returning next year. •Must have attained the age of 16 by March 1, 2006 to work during the March Break. •Must have attained the age of 16 by May 1, 2006 to work during the Summer. •Must have primary residency in the City of Pickering*. •Only candidates with current certification in Standard First Aid and Basic Rescuer CPR – C will be considered for an interview. Certifications must be brought to the interview. •Must be willing to undergo a Criminal Reference check as a condition of employment. • Must be willing to attend various mandatory training sessions. • Must be willing to work weekends and holidays as required. Please visit our website for more information regarding shifts available and mandatory training dates. Position Camp Counsellor Camp Counsellor, Special Needs Assistant Camp Director Camp Director Coordinator, Special Needs & Volunteers (Summer Camp Only) Experience Required •Previous experience working with children ages 3-12. • Volunteer experience in a camp setting would be an asset. •Previous experience working with children with special needs. • Volunteer experience in a camp setting would be an asset. •1 year of experience as a Camp Counsellor. •2 years of experience as an Assistant Camp Director. •Requires valid Ontario Class “G” driver’s license and must have personal vehicle for use in the performance of work duties. •2 years experience in working with children with special needs in a camp program, group home or recreational setting / Volunteer program experience. •Requires valid Ontario Class “G” driver’s license and must have personal vehicle for use in the performance of work duties. All new applicants for SUMMER CAMP will be required to attend a Summer Interview Screening Workshop on Sunday April 23, 2006. New applicants will be required to prepare and bring a program plan, and then present the activity (approximately 10 minutes) to a group of their peers. Candidates being considered will be contacted with details. Interviews will be conducted with successful candidates of this process. MUNICIPAL PROPERTY & ENGINEERING DIVISION The City of Pickering is also hiring Student Labourers for Summer 2006 WORK TERM IS FROM MAY 1st – AUGUST 25th Student Labourers are responsible for performing maintenance duties in Corporation owned parklands and property for the 2006 Summer Season. Typical duties include cutting grass on Municipal parklands and property, assisting with maintenance and repairs of Municipal owned buildings, and assisting in the planting of flowerbeds, shrub beds, trees and inventory maintenance. Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be considered for employment: •At the time of the interview, candidates must be enrolled in a secondary, post-secondary, or other educational program and have full intention of returning next year. •Must have attained the age of 16 by January 1, 2006. •Must have primary residency in the City of Pickering*. •Must possess a valid Ontario Class “G” driver’s license and be prepared to provide a Driver’s Abstract. * Non-residents of Pickering will be considered if there are no suitable candidates from the City. Note: You can print off the Employment Application or apply directly online. To be considered for a position, please submit your application no later than Monday, January 16, 2006. Please reference the specific position you wish to be considered for directly on the application. If you wish to be considered for multiple positions, please indicate so on your cover letter or press ctrl and click on each position for which you are applying on the online application form at cityofpickering.com. For Student Labourer positions, preference will be given to applicants with related experience and/or Horticulture or Forestry related education. PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR TELEPHONE NUMBER AT SCHOOL IF YOU ARE OUT OF TOWN. Strap on your skates and glide into 2006. Enjoy children’s entertainer Jim Parker Island Getaway on the pool deck! Muhtadi & the World Drummers Madagascar On the “big screen”. Enjoy some crazy island crafts! Ballots to WIN Draw just before the clock strikes 9:00 pm Join us as we countdown to 2006. Municipal Operations is responsible for an exceptionally wide range of vital services that ensure a high quality of life and safety throughout Pickering. These responsibilities include the repair and maintenance of roads, curbs, sidewalks, streetlights and storm sewers. It also includes winter control operations, and the maintenance of playgrounds, parks and sports fields, boulevard and parkland grass cutting, the maintenance of street trees and managing the City’s municipal fleet. General inquiries please contact us by phone at 905.420.4660 ext. 5294 or by email:mpe@city.pickering.on.ca After hours: call 905.683.4319, to report dangerous conditions or any other Operations emergency, Municipal Operations - an integrated service We are here to Serve You - PLUS UNBELIEVABLE $9.99 UPGRADES: 1. 19” LCD-TFT FLAT PANEL MONITOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9.99 2.WESTERN DIGITAL 250GB HARD DRIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9.99 3. 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Just click hereA/P PAGE 6 ◆ NEWS ADVERTISER ◆ DECEMBER 20, 2005 Hand In Hand A look back at Hand in Hand This is the final instalment of a 12-part series looking at Durham’s social services and the people they serve By Carly Foster Staff Writer DURHAM — The man on the phone, upset about rising gas prices affecting his business, said he was ready to give up, pack it in, and go on social assistance so he could sit around and drink beer all day. “How can you say that?” I wanted to scream at him. “How ignorant can you be?” I’d hear little slips like this regu- larly, either in the office, during in- terviews, or from friends and fam- ily. Most people didn’t realize the impact of their words, or would end the statement with a, “Ha ha, just jok- ing.” Perhaps. But how many of those people had actually sat down with a homeless person or someone on so- cial assistance? Had they spoken to the single mom, the “crazy man” on the corner begging for change, or the “bum kids” loitering in coffee shops when they should be in school? If they had, maybe their assump- tions would change, Ian McKenzie will be on disabil- ity pay for the rest of his life, but he has stability after years of emotional problems. His living conditions may appall you and I, but there is no one more grateful for having a roof over his head. Is it Steven C. Barr’s fault he slipped on ice and cracked his head, leaving him with cognitive difficulties, few job prospects and low self-esteem? No. But it’d be easy to paint him in a negative light if you met him on the street. Who are we to judge those with a poor family life, low education, low income, living in a vicious cycle of poverty? There are agencies to help, people say. That is very true -- in Durham alone there are hundreds covering every aspect of social assistance, from housing to mental illness to home and day care to blindness and disabilities. But they struggle, too. They vie for the same pot of money that never grows while their cases and costs do. Successive governments of all agen- das make unkept promises and flash dollars around to win votes. The only government to keep its promise, in- dustry workers agree? Mike Harris - - he slashed spending, cut programs, and left organizations and local gov- ernments floundering. Despite the difficulty, there are successes, the stories that make the battle worthwhile. Sara Belfour was saved by rent- geared-to-income housing after a se- ries of financial troubles left her and her husband with nowhere to go. Five years later, the couple is planning to move out by the end of the year. An organization in her develop- ment, Stop 46, offers day care and food and clothing to residents. Eric Ramsay, left brain damaged at 45, enjoys companionship and stimu- lation at the Clarington Adult Day program while his primary caregiver, his wife, has a rest. Pam Gregory’s husband was able to die at home, surrounded by his family, because of home care. Detective Cathy Bawden, work- ing with abuse cases, is organizing a drop-in day centre where victims and survivors can get a one-stop shop of help from local organizations. Carolyn Watters, the Birch family, Karen Ireland, Tim Pickett and Cyn- die Sproul have all benefitted from specialized services in Durham. And what about the workers, the helpers who aid the helpless. There would be days, after I interviewed people facing such hardships with such courage, where making it home without crying was impossible. How is it that social service workers do this everyday? They just do, coping in their own way with a never-ending supply of compassion. We contribute to the humanity of people, Hugh Drouin, the Region’s commissioner of social services said when this series started last Janu- ary. The goal was to put a face to the people who use and administer programs, to give a voice to a popula- tion most of us rarely see in our busy suburban lives. Social services -- perhaps more aptly named human services -- helps to give people dignity, pride and self- worth, Mr. Drouin said. How right he is. newsdurhamregion.com searchkeyword: handinhand Recap Pa rt 1: Introduction Pa rt 2: Income support Pa rt 3: Homelessness Pa rt 4: Housing Pa rt 5: Servicing youth Pa rt 6: Childcare Part 7: Seniors and long-term care Pa rt 8: Homecare Pa rt 9: Family abuse Pa rt 10: Specialized services Part 11: People behind the programs Pa rt 12: Series wrap-up Ignorance, struggle in a world of compassion A/P PAGE 4 ◆ NEWS ADVERTISER ◆ DECEMBER 20, 2005 Panthers cough up a furball By Al Rivett Sports Editor PICKERING — It was one of those games that make coaches either boil with rage or run screaming into a De- cember night. In what was undoubtedly the Pick- ering Panthers’ worst effort thus far in the 2005-06 OHA Ontario Provincial Junior ‘A’ Hockey League season, the juniors were shelled 8-0 by the Aurora Tigers at the Aurora Community Cen- tre on Sunday afternoon. Fortunately, the Panthers were able to salvage a split of their weekend con- tests, defeating the visiting Vaughan Vipers 6-3 at the Pickering Recreation Complex on Friday night. The Panthers and Vipers met for a fourth and final time this season on Monday night in Vaughan, with the result unavailable at press time. Head coach John Winder says the players seemed to be physically and mentally prepared to do battle Sunday against an Aurora team the Panthers had beaten 4-2 at the recreation com- plex less than a week ago. But, this time, despite all appearances, the play- ers were anything but ready to go. “It was one of those games,” ex- plained Winder. “We just stunk from the goaltender on out. We didn’t take an overabundance of penalties. We just didn’t play well. You can’t pick (just) one player out and say he didn’t do his duty.” To add insult to injury, Winder notes his players knew the game plan, which was to keep Aurora players from going to the net and taking multiple shots on goal. Uncharacteristically, the Panthers were lethargic in their own zone, leav- ing starting goaltender Mark Duchesne alone to deal with the onslaught. “We didn’t play well defensively,” says Winder. “We knew they were going to dump it in and whack away at it. We didn’t pick them up; we stood around watching instead of covering them.” The upshot was Aurora scored three times in the first period. Smelling blood, the Tigers continued to pour it on in the second, scorching the Pan- thers for four more markers. Duchesne was lifted after the fourth Aurora goal, but Bryan Eustace didn’t fare much better, allowing the final four tallies. The loss meant the Panthers (20-12- 1-1) failed in an attempt to put some distance between them and the North Yo rk Rangers and the Vipers. North Yo rk is currently tied with Pickering for third place in the South Conference, while Vaughan sits one point behind. Moreover, Sunday’s loss meant the Panthers didn’t gain any ground on the second-place St. Michael’s Buzz- ers, who sit three points ahead. By contrast, the Panthers put forth a spirited effort in earning their first vic- tory over the Vipers. In a game that fea- tured plenty of speed on both sides of the puck, the Panthers scored a couple of late empty-net markers to salt away their 20th win of the season. While Sunday’s loss was akin to hav- ing a root canal, Winder says being be- hind the bench Friday was especially enjoyable. “It was an exciting game. I really enjoyed coaching it. There was no gar- bage; the referees let us play. We’re a fast-skating club and Vaughan is a fast- skating team, too.” Duchesne was especially effective, making two outstanding saves on breakaways. Up front, the Panthers received an- other strong performance from power forward Brett Connolly, who netted a goal and two assists. The Panthers next three games are all against the neighbouring Ajax At- tack, starting Friday night at the com- plex at 7:30 p.m. The Attack is in the midst of a down year, having won only five times. Their struggles not- withstanding, Winder says the Attack will undoubtedly rise to the occasion against the rival Panthers. “They play harder every time we play, because of the cross-town rival- ry,” says Winder, mindful of the fact that one of the two then-Axemen wins last season came at the Panthers’ ex- pense. “They’ll be gunning for us.” SCORING SUMMARY Vaughan at Panthers Period 1 Pickering - Richard Schofield (Brett Connolly, Josh Domingues) 3:12 Vaughan - Anthony Metallo (Jake LaPlante) 14:30 Period 2 Pickering - Brett Connolly (PP) (Justin Fox, Patrick Jobb) 4:43 Vaughan - Paul Rodrigues (Anthony Metallo, Gregg Eskedjian) 13:12 Pickering - Josh Domingues (Tomek Budziakowski, Patrick Jobb) 14:50 Period 3 Pickering - Chris Jones (unassisted) 10:06 Vaughan - Frank Ritacca (Matthew Mar- tello, Jake LaPlante) 13:19 Pickering - Ryan Annesley (EN) (Brett Connolly, Richard Schofield) 18:55 Pickering - Tyler Melancon (EN) (Todd Hosmer, Greg Riggs) 19:47 A/P PAGE 7 ◆ NEWS ADVERTISER ◆ DECEMBER 20, 2005 SPORTS sportsdurhamregion.com THIS WEEKEND The Pickering Panthers host the Ajax Attack in junior ‘A’ hockey at the Pickering Recreation Complex Friday at 7:30 p.m. Sports briefs DECEMBER 20, 2005 [ Hockey ] Lightning dump Axion for third win in a row DURHAM — In their final game prior to the Christmas break, the Durham Lightning made it an effort to remember in a classic battle with the Montreal Axion in National Women’s Hockey League play at the Ajax Com- munity Centre on Saturday night. Af ter Mon- treal scored the opening goal, the Lightning rallied to score the final two to pull out a thrilling 2-1 vic- tory. The unlikely hero was Jennifer Wa kefield, a call-up from the Durham West intermediate squad. Wa kef ield scored the winner, her second in as many games. Team cap- tain Joanne Eustace earned an assist and scored Durham’s first goal, as- sisted by Teresa Marchese. Saturday’s win was Durham’s third in a row and eighth in their last 10 league games. With the victory, the Durham Light- ning (12-3-4-1) moved six points ahead of second-place Brampton Thunder in the NWHL’s Central Division standings. The Lightning resume league play after the Christmas break on Friday, Jan. 6 when they play the Brampton Thunder at the Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre in Orangeville. Ajax High Rams reach playoffs at Wa t erloo Classic AJAX — The Ajax High School Rams senior boys’ hockey team con- cluded a tough, but productive week on the ice in league and tournament action. The Rams played in the McKerlie Classic high school tournament in Wa- terloo last Thursday and Friday, com- peting against many of the top teams in southern Ontario. In the end, Ajax High was stopped in the quarter-finals after a 5-3 loss against the Norwell Redmen of Palmer- ston. In earlier action at the 24-team tournament, hosted by Grand River Collegiate, Ajax romped past Sir John A. Macdonald from Waterloo 7-2 in the opener. In Game 2, the Rams edged St. Thomas Aquinas of London, the provin- cial high school champs in 1999, 1-0. On Friday morning, the Rams nipped Preston High from Cambridge 2-1 to win their pool and earn a bye to the quarter-finals. In league play, the Rams defeated the top team in the Lake Ontario Sec- ondary School Athletics (LOSSA) East Division, the Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School Saints 5-3. The win improved Ajax High’s league record to 5-1-2 and vaulted the Rams into first place in the Central Division. The Rams hosted the Henry Street High School Hawks of Whitby at the Ajax Community Centre today (Dec. 20), with the result unavailable at press time. Ajax High’s overall record sits at 11-3-2. [ Curling ] Pine Ridge loses a close one to Bowmanville PICKERING — Bowmanville High School won a see-saw battle on pebbled ice by a close score over Pine Ridge in recent Durham Region high school curling action. Pine Ridge ended up on the short end of a 7-5 score in Lake Ontario Sec- ondary School Athletics (LOSSA) play at the Oshawa Curling Club. Pine Ridge took an early 2-0 lead after stealing a point in each of the first and second ends. Bowmanville, however, roared back with a deuce in the third to tie the contest. The teams were still deadlocked after the fifth end, but Pine Ridge nudged ahead with two points in the sixth. Bowmanville roared back with three points in the seventh end to give them a 6-5 lead. In the final end, Pine Ridge needed a tough raise-back takeout, but came up short on the shot, allowing Bow- manville High to steal an insurance point. Gliding off to skating nationals Pickering’s Kristy Dobson overcomes injury to qualify for Ottawa next month By Al Rivett Sports Editor PICKERING — If you had asked Kristy Dobson last summer if she would be skating in the nationals this winter, the answer might have been an unequivocal ‘no’. The Pickering figure skater suffered an ankle injury in June that would keep her from a full training regimen at the Richmond Training Centre in Richmond Hill under coach Bob Em- erson. Mostly, it meant the 16-year- old skater would be unable to practise her jumps. “It was really not good training. It was really restricted,” says Dobson, a Grade 11 student at Pickering High School. The injury was serious enough that one physician recommended surgery. But, after getting a second medical opinion, the decision was made to drain the ankle of fluids and inject cortisone into the area. “It seems to control it; it wasn’t near as bad. We know now what to do to make it better quickly,” she says. The injury, however, in retrospect ended up being a blessing in dis- guise. “I had to spend more time doing everything else -- presentation stuff,” notes Dobson. And, after getting healthy, there was no stopping Dobson. At the Central Ontario Sectionals in Richmond Hill last month, she finished fourth overall in the junior ladies’ division, placing third in the short program and fourth in the long program. Placing in the top four qualified Dobson for the Eastern Canadian championships at the Hershey Cen- tre in Mississauga earlier this month. There, competing against 18 other skaters in the junior ladies’ event, Dobson finished a disappointing 12th after the short program. Undeterred, she put it all together in the long program to finish fourth, ending the competition seventh. With the top-10 finishers moving on to the nationals, Dobson achieved something that a short few months earlier she would have thought unat- tainable -- her first-ever date at the Canadians, slated for Ottawa from Jan. 9 to 16. Realizing the dream was a surreal experience she’ll remember for a long time. “It was like a party in the stands,” she recalls of the euphoria of making nationals and celebrating with family. In Ottawa, there’ll be 20 competi- tors -- 10 each from eastern and west- ern Canada. Dobson hopes to achieve a top-five finish. “I’m going there so I can at least place in the top five, top three would be better, but I’ll settle for fifth, be- cause that’s still a place on the na- tional team, so I can train all over the world,” she says. Dobson says there were several rea- sons for her strong skating season to date. She points out she spent several weeks in May in Philadelphia where she worked on her on-ice presenta- tion skills. “It was not training in jumps and spins, but about presenting to an au- dience and not being afraid to show emotion,” she explains. She’s also been working closely with a sports psychologist on focusing on her on-ice performance, some- thing that has had a positive effect this year. “It’s helped me a lot when I’m in competition and staying focused,” she says. If 15 hours per week of on-ice train- ing isn’t enough, Dobson also finds time to be in a Pickering gym, where she works on weight training 10 hours each week. Dobson’s next step in her skating career, she says, is to make the leap to the senior level, something she hopes to do next season. “My goal is to become a senior skat- er and make the national team,” she says. Photo submitted Pickering’s Kristy Dobson shows the form that earned her a spot at the Canadian Figure Skating Championships in Ottawa next month. It’s the 16-year-old skater’s first appearance at nationals, and she expects to finish in the top five in a field of 20 com- petitors. She’ll compete in the junior ladies’ category. Jason Liebregts/ News Advertiser photo Ajax Attack’s Lenny Ancona and Huntsville Muskoka Otters’ Bobby MacDonald chase a loose puck during OHA Ontario Provincial Junior ‘A’ Hockey League action at the Ajax Community Centre on Sunday afternoon. The Attack lost 7-2. The Ajax juniors also took to the ice Friday in Markham, losing 4-3 in overtime to the first-place Waxers. On home ice against the Wexford Raiders on Saturday afternoon, the Attack lost 6-2. The Panthers play their next three games against the Attack, beginning Friday in Pickering at 7:30 p.m Joanne Eustace A/P PAGE 8 ◆ NEWS ADVERTISER ◆ DECEMBER 20, 2005 Canada’s Largest Liquidator Over 100locations! Supply & Selection will vary by outlet. 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City swim club gets funds just in time New equipment installed just before Lisa Flood Christmas Classic meet PICKERING — The timing was im- peccable for a big donation to the Pick- ering Swim Club prior to last week- end’s 19th edition of the Lisa Flood Christmas Classic Swim Meet. After a year of waiting and hoping, mixed with plenty of paperwork, the club was the recipient of a $75,000 grant courtesy of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, which provides funds to non-profit organizations for worthy projects. The funding announcement was made last Friday, with Pickering-Ajax- Uxbridge MPP Wayne Arthurs and Pickering Mayor David Ryan on hand at the Pickering Recreation Complex pool, using the start of the meet as the backdrop. And, just in time for the venerable Flood classic, the money enabled the club to install new pool equipment, in- cluding new electronic starting blocks and timing pads, making the timing of races more accurate. As well, the club also invested in new fitness training equipment for its 100 competitive and 170 non-competitive swimmers. The new electronic equipment, says club past-president Wendy Mahony, arrived last week and was installed as quickly as possible for the Flood meet. “It was touch-and-go,” explains Ma- hony. “There were some late nights for the men helping to do it.” The new equipment, she says, will ensure the five meets the club hosts each year will be the destination of choice for other Ontario swim clubs. “Swim meets are important for us. They make the club money,” she notes. “The clubs pay entry fees, so if we can run swim meets and make money we can lower the (yearly) fees for the Pick- ering kids. It’s important to have good equipment. If you don’t, the clubs won’t come back.” By hosting swim meets, the club’s swimmers “get to be heroes in their own community, instead of going somewhere else,” she added. At the meet itself, the Pickering club welcomed more than 400 swimmers from 19 clubs across Canada. Pickering swimmers smashed three club records during the meet, includ- ing Jessica Ward in the women’s 17- and-over age group. Ward swam the 100-metre backstroke in 1:01.79 sec- onds, breaking the record previously held by Laura Nicholls of 1:03.28, set earlier this year. Carleen Ginter swam the girls’ 9-10 100m back in 1:23.72, which eclipsed the former record of 1:23.85 set by Aly- sha Lynden two years ago. Adam Gomba broke his own record in the boys’ 13-14 100m backstroke. His time of 1:05.59 just edged his re- cord of 1:05.68. In other news, club swimmers also took part in the Roy Jacobson Invita- tional meet, hosted by the Vaughan Aquatic Club in Woodbridge on Dec. 10. Kyle Koerth took an aggregate 15.44 seconds off his events at the meet, the most of any Pickering swimmer. Season’sSeason’s GreetingsGreetings from your Conservative Party Candidate Rondo Thomas visit our campaign offi ce at 475 Westney Road. Unit 3, Ajax for details Call 905.619.0039 www.rondothomas.ca Conservative Party of Canada Authorized by the Registered Agent for Rondo Thomas Ron Pietroniro/News Advertiser photo Pickering Swim Club’s Jessica Ward plows through the water while competing in the girls’ 15-and-over 200-metre breaststroke at the 19th annual Lisa Flood Christmas Classic swim meet at the Pickering Recreation Complex pool recently. The meet marked a number of new improvements to the pool, courtesy of a Trillium grant re- ceived by the club. Pickering athletes tumble to strong results at meet PICKERING — Pickering Athletic Centre Provincial tumbling athletes fared well at their first major competi- tion of the season. The club sent four athletes to the first Ontario Cup event hosted by the Burl- ington G.G’s club Dec. 10 and 11 and all four qualified for the provincial champi- onships in the spring. Rebecca Palen tumbled her way to second place in her first time in the pro- vincial category. Meanwhile, Ashley Wells tumbled her way to third in her age group, while Kelsey McMaster also achieved a third- place standing. KC Tohm, also in her first year as a provincial athlete, finished eighth. To learn more about this growing sport, call the centre at 905-839-5260 or drop by the club at 1095 Kingston Rd. in Pickering. 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Looking for Work? We can help! ●training ●resumes ●job market ●self-employment The Employment Advantage Workshop can provide valuable information to help you. Call 905-426-8337 to reserve a seat for the next free workshop or to arrange your personal meeting with a friendly, knowledgeable Employment Advisor. Helping People Get to Work northernlightsosh.com Project Funded by MATURE SUPERVISOR required for adult day program- Part time, could lead to full time. Administra- tion, computer experience and ac- tivity program experience an defi- nite asset. Fax resumes to: (905) 619-2704. ORDER TAKERS NEEDED $25/hr. avg. Full Time We Train You!! 905.435.0518 SUPERINTENDENT required full- time for Oshawa/Bowmanville apartment complex. Suitable for retired/semi-retired couple. No pets. Fax resume (905)623-2257. Only those chosen for an interview will be contacted. TODDLER ECE REQUIRED immediately for day care in Port Perry area. Must have ECE Diploma. Please contact Michelle at 905-985-8783 or uticadaycare@powergate.ca YOUTH WORKER REQUIRED for therapeutic group home for emotionally disturbed and con- fused adolescents within the Dur- ham Region. Full time positions available $27 - $30,000 yr. to start, pending qualifications. Part time position available $10 - 12.00 /hr. pending qualifications. Fax resume to (905) 579-3093 has the following position available: Afternoon Evening Receptionist Sharing a schedule of: Monday - Thursday 1:00 to 9:00 Please email resume to: sectreas@bobmyerschev.com Specifying days available "No Phone Calls Please" We thank all applicants, but advise that we will only contact those under consideration Wa r ehouse / Customer Service Ajax company expanding and requiring pro-active team player with above average communication skills. Fax: (905)-428-1462 email Mhinncore@aol.com WE ARE CURRENTLY seeking a Service Advisor for our Mack/Vol- vo Tr uck Dealership. This candi- date should have experience in the heavy duty truck industry as well as have strong customer service and computer skills. Wages to be negotiated dependent on experi- ence. We offer a bonus program and benefits. If interested please contact our Service Manager by fax at 905-426-2771, e-mail at emontgomery@durhamtruck.com. RENTAL CHAIR in Salon close to Pickering Town Centre. Call (905)420-2009 or 416-768-4103 for more details. CUSTOM MIRROR and glass installer, shop hand. Top Pay! Clean drivers licence. Experienced only. Call (905)432-7873, fax 905-432-6845 Custom Stainless Steel Fabrication Shop Specializing in food equipment, requires for a person FULLY EXPERIENCED in grinding and polishing Items such as Exhaust hoods, Custom Sinks, Tables, and many other items. Please fax resume attention: Al Colterman 905-683-8546 or e-mail to alscontract@aol.com LICENSED DESIEL Mechanic re- quired to work part-time, must be self motivated, knowledge of trac- tor trailers. Be very flexible with hours. Suitable for retired mechan- ic. Call Executive Transportation, 905-697-1403. INVOICING CLERK - full time, Scarborough. Good communica- tion and computer skills. Fax 416- 291-0045. ACCOUNTING ADMINISTRATOR Cogir, a growing real estate management firm in Whitby, requires an entry level bookkeeper to support the accounting department. Duties include: accounts payable and receivables, bank deposits, issuing and mailing cheques, assisting in monthly financial statements. Qualifications include, sound understanding of GAAP, computer literate in Microsoft Word and Excel. Please forward resumes by: Friday, December 30, 2005, to Angela Valic, Controller at avalic@toronto.cogir.net RECEPTIONIST Cogir, a growing real estate management firm in Whitby, is looking for a receptionist to answer phones for a busy property management company. Other, duties include, opening and sorting mail, administration work, preparing faxes, ordering office supplies, photocopying and arranging meetings, Qualifications, computer literate in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook. Please forward resumes by: Friday, December 30, 2005, to Angela Valic, Controller at avalic@toronto.cogir.net A LICENSED PHARMACIST is re- quired for Lovell drugs in Whitby. This is a part-time position. Excel- lent communication skills and abil- ity to provide excellent pharmaceu- tical care are required. Visit our website at www.lovelldrugs.com Please send resume to: Rita Winn, General Manager, 52-1/2 Simcoe St. N. Oshawa, fax 905-723-1421, email ritawinn@lovelldrugs.com RMT for busy Brooklin clinic. Lo- cum January to March/06. Pos- sibility of extension. (905)655-0752 MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST - Med- ical Receptionist required for a busy medical group practice. Start- ing salary dependent on experi- ence. Please fax resumes to (905) 434-6308 before December 23, 2005. PREVENTIVE DENTAL Assistant Level 2 for Orthodontic office. Ex- perienced preferred. Mail resume to File #223, Oshawa This Week , 865 Farewell St. Oshawa, ON L1H 7L5 RMT NEEDED IMMEDIATELY. Full-time and part-time. Please Contact Nancy. 905-426-8503. RMT POSITION available full time or part time in multi disciplinary clinic in Ajax and Scarborough. Please fax resume 905-686-5830 or email: a235rc@yahoo.ca RPN REQUIRED 25-30hrs per week for busy Oshawa specialty clinic. Fax resume to: 905-669- 3832. 'TIS THE SEASON to be jolly- un- less you are a senior with no one to celebrate with. Why not volun- teer to visit a lonely senior or dis- abled adult living in your neigh- bourhood for one-two hours a week? Call VON Durham at 1-800- 263-7970 for more information or email durhamvolunteer@von.ca. Fulfill your New Years' resolution of becoming more community oriented. *HOME SELLERS* Find Out What Homes Down The Street Sold For! Free computerized list with pictures of area home sales & current listings Free recorded message 1-800-417-7295 ID#7041 Visit: www. DurhamArea HomeSales.com Remax Ability Real Estate Ltd. ** (905) 434-7777Matt Cooper* WHY RENT?? when you can own a spectacular new HOME North of Bowmanville in quaint town, ultra modern, big kitchen, 3 bed's, at- tached garage. Agents Welcome. Must Sell! Asking $169k, carries for as low as $675/mth. call toll free 1-800-467-1766 *RENTERS* Why rent when You can own? Free computerized list with pictures of homes available with No Money Down From $1,200/month Free recorded Message. 1-800-417-7295 ID #7051 Visit: www. DurhamStop Renting.com ReMax Ability Real Estate Limited** 905-434-7777 Matt Cooper* A PORT PERRY area NEW spec- tacular all brick bungalow exec. Home on 1 Acre lot Walk to Lake, Agents Welcome, Must see! Ask- ing $274k call 1-877-8789899 toll free DISTRESS SALE Bank Foreclosures & Estate Sales Free computerized list with pictures of Foreclosure properties from $170,000. No Investors please Fr ee recorded message 1-800-417-7295 ID#4042 Visit: www. Durham DistressSale.com Remax Ability Real Estate Ltd. ** (905)434-7777 Matt Cooper* FIXER UPPER "Bargains" These homes need work Free computerized list with pictures of foreclosure proper- ties from $170,000 No investors please Free recorded message 1-800-417-7295 ID#7048 Visit: www DurhamFixer Uppers.com Remax Ability Real Estate Ltd. ** (905) 434-7777 Matt Cooper* HOME EVALUATION Find out what your home is worth On-Line Visit: www. DurhamOnLine Home Evaluation.com Remax Ability Real Estate Limited ** (905) 434-7777Matt Cooper* FOR LEASE, INDUSTRIAL UNITS 2 units - 2600sq.ft. (2000sq.ft. work space, 600sq.ft. office & storage space), 1 unit 2000sq.ft. No body shops. Avail. immediately. Oshawa area. Call 905-429-8239 or (905)723-1123 INDUSTRIAL BAYS, near OC, transport truck high roll-up doors, one bay w/side entrance, air, parking, auto repair, machining, other uses, ample parking. Month-to-month considered. Also Space good for hobbies (905)576- 2982, (905)576-2646. FASTWAY COURIERS new fran- chise to region, 3 exclusive territo- ries available. Be your own boss, ground level opportunity. www.fastway.ca (905)720-2816 STORE FIXTURES Enough to fixture 3500-sq.ft. store. Gondolas, shelves, hooks, cash registers, etc. Ideal for dollar, gift, bargain or clothing store. Reg. Price $30,000, asking $10,000 (take all price) 905-571-7713 (Jim) or jimsarracini1@sympatico.ca TAKE ALL ONLY WE REALLY CARE WHERE YOU LIVE. Realstar offers a full breadth of apartments, penthouses and town houses, plus application approval within 24 hours. No appointment required - Drop in TODAY! OSHAWA Carriage Hill - Townhouses 905-434-3972 122 Colborne Street (Simcoe St., N. Colborne St. E.) Taunton Terrace - Townhouses 905-436-3346 100 Taunton Road, East (Taunton Rd. & Simcoe St. ) UXBRIDGE Testa Heights 905-852-2534 Testa Heights (Reach St. & Testa Rd.) WHITBY 534 Mary Street Apartments 905-666-2450 534 Mary Street East (Mary St., & Hickory St. ) Regency Place Apartments 905-430-7397 15 Regency Crescent (Mary St. & Hickory St.) OPEN HOUSE DAILY from 8AM - 8PM Whitby Place 905-430-5420 900 Dundas Street, East (Dundas St. & Garden St.) Port Hope 905-885-8294 Northumberland Place, 155 Toronto Rd. (Toronto Td. & Hwy 2) 1 MONTH FREE RENT or Up to $500 Move-In Allowance Condominium Suites 1, 2, 3 Bedroom Apartments Oshawa - Starting At $750. ●Renovated Suites ●Free Utilities ●Free Parking ●Senior Discounts ●Full Security System Call for more information 905-728-4993 GM RETIREE & EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT e & oe 2 & 3 bedroom apartments starting at $978 per mo. On-site superintendent and security. Rental Office Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (905)686-0845 Eve. viewing by appt. www.ajaxapartments.com WHITBY WELCOMES YOU HOME Spacious, newly renovated 1, 2 and 3 bdrms. Park like setting. Fr iendly community. Convenient location. Steps to GO, shopping, 401. Affordable prices. From $870. Util incl. 1-888-303-1849 WASHER & DRYER IN SUITE! 3 bedroom suites available Jan. & Feb. with central air in condo-quality building. Across from Pickering Town Centre. (905) 831-1250 www.capreit.net TURF Logic 100% Natural Lawn Care High-Tech, Low Investments franchisesales@turflogic.ca or call 1-866-239-4056 $$$100 % FINANCING OAC 5 yr. at 4.85% or Variable at 4.15% OAC,Cash take-outs, Refinances, Self-employed, Commercial, even poor credit. Call Kevin, Mon. to Sat. at: 1-800-328-7887 ext. 366. $$$MORTGAGE FINANCING$$$ - $$$1ST AND 2ND MORTGAG- ES $$$ www.mortgagebid.ca or call Dennis @1-800-915-2353. Purchases, renewals or refinance. To consolidate your debts. Lowest rates possible for residential or commercial.Credit issues, self em- ployed, I will assess your needs. Prompt, professional service. From 4.69% for 5 years. 1st. & 2nd Mortgages to 100% (OAC) Best Available Rates Private Mortgage Funds Arrears P.O.S Refinancing Debt Consolidation a Specialty For FAST PROFESSIONAL SERVICE Call 905-666-4986 MORTGAGES - Good, bad and ugly. Financing for any purpose. All applications accepted. Call Community Mortgage Services Corp. (905)668-6805 $200. OFF FIRST MONTHS RENT. SIMCOE/ADELAIDE, Beautiful 1-bedroom large apt. Bright, newly renovated $700/in- clusive; pot lights throughout, air, laundry, parking, non-smoker/no pets. Near Durham College/Uni- versity, walk to hospital. (416)568- 3965 (2) OSHAWA 3 bedrooms, and Bowmanville 2-bedroom, rent in- clusive, laundry, separate en- trance, fenced backyard, parking, convenient locations, hardwood, available immediately. (416)892- 8864 1 BEDROOM APT,Simcoe/401 Oshawa, 4 plex, large sunroom. Includes hydro, water, gas. Coin laundry Available immediately. $750/inclusive. No smoking/pets Call Kazim (416)818-7751 1-bedroom $700;2-bedroom $895. Rossland & Ritson. Clean, quiet, adult lifestyle building. Inter- com, suits retired mature working adult 905-720-2352, NO PETS. 1011 SIMCOE ST. N.,Oshawa - Large 3 bedroom town home suites with full basements, avail- able for rent. Private fenced yards with mature trees. Close to all amenities. $799.00 per month. Call (905)579-7649 for an appoint- ment. 359 BUENA VISTA,Oshawa, 2 bedroom apartment, laundry, kitchen, dining/living room, available December 20th/Anytime. No pets. $900/month. call (905)725-5587 AJAX - Must see new bright, one bedroom, close to all amenities. Available immediately. No smok- ing/pets please. $750 all inclusive. negotiable. Call (905) 706-4707, (905) 427-7986 AJAX - NEW 2 BEDROOM APT. Large windows. Separate en- trance. 2 parking. Everything in- cluded. No Smoking, no pets. $950/month. Avail Dec. 23rd. 905- 426-3585. AJAX. ONE BEDROOM bright & clean, walkout bsmnt. apt. freshly painted, new carpet, new applianc- es, non smoker, lst/last, referenc- es, Available immediately. 905- 686-5414. BLOOR ST. EAST OSHAWA - Near No Frills/401. TWO - 2- bedrooms, $745 + hydro($50/mo), available now. Immaculate, well- maintained, nice and bright. Laundry, small building. Bus-stop at door. First/last, 1-parking. No pets. 905-668-1946. BLUEWATER PARK WHITBY 1 & 2 Bedrooms, Please call Mon-Fri 9 a.m - 5 p.m Evenings by appt. only 905-571-3522 Shelter Canadian Properties Ltd. BROOKLIN,newly renovated 1- bedroom, c/a, parking, inclusive. Non-smoker, Immediate. $775/mo. OSHAWA January 1st, 2-bedroom $950, bachelor $550/inclusive, nice, clean, main level of house. (905)655-5789, (905)655-9739 CLIPPER APARTMENTS AJAX 2 & 3 Bed. Please call Mon-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Evening by appt. only 905-683-6021 Shelter Canadian Properties Ltd. LIVERPOOL/BAYLY - bsmt bach- elor avail immed, $600/mo, first/last, non-smoker, no pets, full- bath, parking, cable, a/c. Close to Go, bus, shopping. 905-420-9497 LUXURY 3 BEDROOM apartment in Oshawa. 2 appliances, air, 2 full baths, utilities extra. $950 per mo. Available immediately. Call (905) 725-9991. NEW PICKERING APARTMENT- Finch/Liverpool. 2 bedroom, sep- arate entrance, parking, laundry, a/c, no pets. $900 inclusive. Available immediately. 647-889- 3065. NEWLY RENOVATED one bed- room main-floor, brand new appli- ances, eat-in kitchen, laundry, parking, available Jan. 1st. $800/inclusive. King/Ritson area. 613-338-3008. NORTH OSHAWA,Russet Ave. Good location, next to bus route, well-maintained, quiet 12-plex small building. Utilities, cable, heating, parking included. 2-bed- room. No dogs. 905-576-2982. or 905-576-2646. NORTH OSHAWA,1-bedroom for rent $720/monthly, includes util- ities, fridge, stove, parking, 905- 579-9777. OSHAWA Clean, spacious, 2 bedroom, laundry, parking for 2 cars, utilities included. $890/month. Phone 905-420-0514 or cell 289-314-2566. OSHAWA Park/Adelaide (230 Nipigon St) 2-Bdrms - Jan. 1 st 3-Bdrms avail. immediately /Jan 1st Well maintained building. Near all amenities. From only $835/month + hydro. (905)723-0977 OSHAWA HOSPITAL area, north of Adelaide, large upper 2-bed- room, 2 baths, laundry, parking, $850/mo inclusive. First/last. Call 905-579-2350 OSHAWA Park South/401 new management, newly renovated 1-2-3 Bedrooms from $725. Well- maintained, clean, quiet, improved security. Bus/GO. Hydro included. 835 Oxford 905-622-0835; 885 Oxford 905-622-0885 OSHAWA, LARGE clean 1-bed- room basement apt. Laminate flooring, very bright with large win- dows, laundry, 4pc bath, parking for 2 cars, all inclusive $700/month, Jan 1st. 905-999- 2460. PICKERING - GO STATION. Ve ry clean 3-bdrm, main floor of house. 5 appliances. a/c, laundry, parking. $1,175. Across from school. Available January 29th. (647) 430-3517. PICKERING ALTONA/SHEP- PARD,2 large bedroom basement apt, big windows, separate en- trance, no smoking, no pets. $800 inclusive. Close to all amenities. Call 905-250-0748 or 905-686- 0010. PICKERING Major Oaks/Brock Rd. 2-bdrm bsmt, separate en- trance, parking, fridge/stove, dishwasher, own laundry, a/c. Suits working person/couple. No smoking/pets, $825/mo.- all inclu- sive, cable included, first/last, ref- erences. Available Jan. lst. 416- 938-9194. PICKERING Whites/401 Base- ment apt for rent. 1 bedroom, nice, clean, newly renovated. sep en- trance, 4 appliances, available im- mediately $900-all inclusive. No pets. 416-996-3936 PICKERING,2-bedroom base- ment large bright, 4 appliances, parking, walk to GO & Town Cen- tre. $875/mo inclusive. Avail. im- mediately. Call Mike days 905- 427-4077 ext. 24, evenings & wknds 905-442-0020. PICKERING, LARGE 3-BDRM. walk-out basement apt. 2 wash- rooms, kitchen, laundry. Stove, fridge, washer/dryer. 2 parking spots. Near schools, bus, shop- ping. Non-smoker. $950/mo., heat/hydro/cable included. First/last. Available Jan 1st/sooner. 905-683-8942. PICKERING,LIVERPOOL/BAYLY 2-Bedroom basement apt, all inclu- sive $900, first/last, references. Available Dec 19th. Call 416-509- 8534 or 905-201-8961. PICKERING-LIVERPOOL/HWY#2 New Esplanade building, 2 bed- room plus den, security gate, un- derground parking ,gym, applianc- es. mid-January, $1300 inclusive. Condolyn Mgt. 905 428-9766 PORT WHITBY 1722/1724 Duffe- rin St. Newly renovated spacious, quiet, 2-bedrooms. Avail. immedi- ately. $895/mo. Laundry, parking, walk to GO, 401/Brock St. Near sports arena, shopping. 1-800- 693-2778 RITSON/KING.New 3-bdrm (1st,2nd & 3rd floor). Newly reno- vated, eat-in kitchen, dishwasher, private laundry, deck, 3 parking. $1200-inclusive. Immediate. 613- 338-3008 SOUTH AJAX -2 bedroom base- ment. Separate entrance, cable, A/C, Very Private. No smok- ing/pets. Available immediately. (416)679-4006 (daytime) or 416- 721-3063 (evening or weekend). UXBRIDGE NEW!Town house / Apartments, air conditioned, 4 appliances, patio/garden, parking, storage. 905-852-4777 WHITBY - Garden St. apt. build- ing. Spacious, carpeted, newly painted with balcony. Close to bus, shopping, all utilities incl. Avail. now, first/last, no pets. Bachelor $700. 1-bdrm $800; 2-bdrm $900; 905-767-2565 WHITBY -Lovely, bright, new, above ground bachelor apt. Walk- out to private deck, hardwood flooring, laundry. $800/mo inclu- sive. Call 905-666-4302. WHITBY SOUTH-spacious 1&2 bedroom, $750 - $870, laundry, first/last, near Go, (MOVE-IN FREE BEFORE CHRISTMAS) Daytime viewings Mon-Fri. Days (905)666-3338, evenings (905)832-2722. WHITBY,basement apartment. 2-bedrooms, 1400sq.ft., parking, laundry, A/C, private fenced side yard and entrance. No smok- ing/pets. $1000/month, all utilities and cable included. Available March 1st. (416)577-1109 3 BEDROOM house on beautiful piece of property in Uxbridge. Available immediately. Call Gary: 905-852-5557 cell: 905-649-0257 3 BEDROOM SEMI-DETACHED, Adelaide/Wilson. $1200/mo. plus utilities. Available anytime. Appli- ances, laundry facilities, near bus route. Parking, (905)623-7712 401/MARKHAM RD.Spacious 3 bedroom town homes, fenced in backyard, private garage & driveway, carpeted, family room, appliance and ceramic floors. Also available 2 bedroom apart- ments(s). www.realstar.ca 416- 292-0118 A ABSOLUTELY astounding 6 months free, then own a house from $600/month. Up to $15,000 cash back to you! Require $35,000 + up family income and reasonable credit. No down payment required. Why Rent! Call Bill Roka, 25 years as top sales rep with world's lead- ing realtor. Remax Spirit (905) 728-1600, 1-888-732-1600 AJAX - BRAND NEW 3 bedroom semi-detached, 2 1/2 washrooms, 5-appliances, deck, available im- mediately, $1350/mo. + utilities. 905-666-8031, 905-265-1985 or 416-357-5435. AJAX BASEMENT APARTMENT for rent. $595/month. Includes laundry facilities, separate en- trance, beautiful wood floors and/or parking. Extremely clean! Also, room for rent, $500. Call 416-721-1314. NEWER 4 BEDROOM house in North Ajax. $l,800 per month. Im- mediate availability. (905)683- 1519 PICKERING ESPLANADE N.3 bedroom townhouse, appliances, underground parking and security. $1, 500/month + utilities. First/last. References. Available February 1st. Call Doug at 905-665-0177. PICKERING VILLAGE TOWN- HOUSE 3 bedroom available Jan- uary 1, 1000 plus utilities, month- ly. 905-683-3303. WHITBY,2 yr. old. 3 bedroom 2-storey, appliances, garage, park- ing, no basement, Jan. 1st. $1350+/mo First/last/references. (905)434-8614 after 5 p.m. WHITBY, Large 3-bedroom bun- galow, upper level, hardwood floors, excellent location, close to schools & park, all utilities, laun- dry, cable included. $1400/month. Available immediately. Call (905)683-6863 WHITBY, N.E.,3-BDRM brick home, 3 bathrooms, 1-year old. $1300/mo+ utilities. Credit check, references, first/last. Avail Feb. 1st. Call Ray 416-823-4930 WE REALLY CARE WHERE YOU LIVE. Realstar offers a full breadth of apartments, penthouses and town houses, plus application approval within 24 hours. No appointment required - Drop in TODAY! OSHAWA Carriage Hill - Townhouses 905-434-3972 122 Colborne Street (Simcoe St., N. Colborne St. E.) Taunton Terrace - Townhouses 905-436-3346 100 Taunton Road, East (Taunton Rd. & Simcoe St. ) UXBRIDGE Testa Heights 905-852-2534 Testa Heights (Reach St. & Testa Rd.) WHITBY 534 Mary Street Apartments 905-666-2450 534 Mary Street East (Mary St., & Hickory St. ) Regency Place Apartments 905-430-7397 15 Regency Crescent (Mary St. & Hickory St.) OPEN HOUSE DAILY from 8AM - 8PM Whitby Place 905-430-5420 900 Dundas Street, East (Dundas St. & Garden St.) Port Hope 905-885-8294 Northumberland Place, 155 Toronto Rd. (Toronto Td. & Hwy 2) EX HIBITORS WANTEDEXHIBITORS WANTEDEXHIBITORS WANTEDEXHIBITORS WANTEDEXHIBITORS WANTEDEXHIBITORS WANTEDEXHIBITORS WANTEDEXHIBITORS WANTEDEXHIBITORS WANTEDEXHIBITORS WANTED FEBR UARY 24•25•26 2006 Markham Fairgrounds NOW BOOKING SPACE 10 ’X5’ booth $495 10 ’x10’ booths starting at $895 CALL YOUR REPRESENTATIVE TODAY AT 1.888.211.7288 WHITES/BAYLY, 3-BEDROOM raised bungalow, corner lot, near schools, stores, beach and 401. Only $1250 plus 40% utilities. Available immediately. Call (705)953-9293, (905)420-4345 401/MARKHAM RD.Spacious 3 bedroom townhomes, fenced in backyard, private garage & drive- way,carpeted, familyroom, appli- ance and ceramic floors. Also available 2 bedroom apartment(s). www.realstar.ca 416-292-0118 COURTICE,Large 3-bdrm town- house, 5 appliances, 1-1/2 baths, garage, finished basement, fenced backyard w/deck, backs onto park, nice quiet neighbourhood, close to 401, available now. $1,250+ util- ities. 905-728-4041. HILLCREST HEIGHTS Commu- nity Living in Oshawa now has units Avail. immed., parking incl. Please call 905-576-9299. PICKERING -3 bedroom Town- house, (Glenanna/Kingston)No Smoking/pets $1200 + Utilities. Great condition, hardwood floors, avail immediately. Call 416-560- 6854 FINCH/WHITES RD.room for rent. Available immediately. Please con- tact Lucia (905)837-8705. for de- tails. LARGE ROOM FOR RENT, in custom home, North-East Oshawa, 5-min to DC/UOIT, 7-per- son hot-tub, big screen TV, satel- lite, gourmet kitchen, wireless in- ternet, many more upgrades! Available immediately. Call for de- tails 905-409-9184 mjanow- ski14@yahoo.com LARGE, CLEAN room near OC, furnished, share kitchen & bath, first/last. Available immediately. Phone 905-436-1420. PICKERING / 401 furnished, TV/cable, parking, share facilities, clean, quiet home. Close to amenities. Non smoking/pets, $400. Suitable for quiet working lady. Jan. lst. (905) 427-7073 or (416)738-5150 ROOM FOR RENT Hwy 2/Har- wood. Suitable for student or sin- gle-working person. Close to all amenities. Utilities/cable included. Share laundry/kitchen. No pets/smoking. First/last. Avail im- mediately. 905-686-2155 or 905- 427-2923 AMAZING NEWLY renovated "apartment style" bachelor, separ- ate shower & entrance, lounge area & fireplace, parking. Laundry avail., patio retreat. Employed, clean & responsible preferred. 905-720-2265 AT BLOOR & SIMCOE, Oshawa. Share furnished apt with 2 males. Near all amenities, cable/internet included. Available immediately, 1st/last, $450/mo inclusive, View- ing (905)433-4088. COZY 3 BEDROOM cottage on Moira Lake, Madoc, great ice fish- ing and snowmobiling, fish hut in- cluded. Call (905) 987-1311. 14 FT. FIBERGLASS fishing boat, closed bow, flat bottom (inside) back side bench seat, lights and live well wired, 20 h.p. evinrude and northtrail trailer, good shape and reliable. $1,700. Also Avail- able brand new 36 lb. thrust Minn Kota electric motor, $250. Also Available - Will store for winter and water ready for spring. (705) 328- 0402 after 6 p.m. 1992 Rinker 25' oal, 5.7 V8, 270- hp, Merc Bravo II outdrive, shore- power, aft cabin, serviced yearly low hours. Boat in very good con- dition. 2001 galvanized trailer $23,000-obo (905)404-2861 1990 POLARIS INDY 500, $1200 obo. 905-668-2815. SINCERE SINGLES,to meet someone special call 1-866-719- 9116. Specializing in long term re- lationships since 1992. 1/2 price specials. LIVE IN CAREGIVER FOR KIDS 10 & 3. Provide care & assistance, general hygiene, timely meals, pick-up/drop-off after school. $11 + room on board. Fax resume 905- 426-7237. LIVE IN NANNY for 3 children, Markham area. 1, 3 and 8 year old boys. Fax resume to Shure Canada 905-250-0723. WESTNEY/ROSSLAND - daycare available TLC, non-smoking, no pets. CPR training. Crafts, nutri- tious meals, bus stop at door to French school, near 401. (905)428-0097. NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!Be a part of the most Rewarding Industry in the World! Looking For: Bright. Energetic. Enthusiastic. Team Players who would like to be or are already a part of the Health & Fit- ness industry. Applicants must possess above average communi- cation skills, be eager to learn, and able to take direction. Positions available: Reception (Full or Part Time). Membership Coordinator Fitness consultants (able to do fit tests). Personal Trainers. Man- agement Trainees. Please send Resume to fax: 905-683-3199. At- tention: Kevin Douglas or e-mail kdouglas@roosfamilyfitness.com. PSYCHICS reader and advisor, help in all life's problems, satisfac- tion guaranteed, specializing in Palm, Tarot and Crystal Ball read- ings. Always private and confi- dential. House parties available. (905)665-3222. $10 off with this ad HORSE STALLS AVAILABLE Professional care. Experienced on site handler. Seasonal turn in, sweet feed & hay included. Clar- ington area, $250/month. 905-436- 2283. Need A Home Phone? FREEDOM PHONE LINES Regardless of Credit No Deposit Required LOWEST PRICE Call now & receive 1 month FREE 1-866-884-7464 !! SATELLITE TV,Free-To-Air: All channels OPEN - NO MONTHLY BILLS - FREE QUALITY SUP- PORT. U-Neek Electronics, 226 Bloor Street E. Oshawa. (web:) www.uneekelectronics.com: The 1st; the BEST! We have the cus- tomer feedback to prove it. (905) 435-0202 A1 ALL SATELLITE SERVICES. FREE TO AIR. NEW GEN Ultra- Mini- N2. CoolTek- N2. Receiver Repairs and Modifications. Dish Network Service and Sales. (905)999-0362 LEATHER JACKETS 1/2 price, purses from $9.99; luggage from $19.99; wallets from $9.99. Every- thing must Go! Family Leather, 5 Points Mall, Oshawa (905)728- 9830, Scarborough (416)439- 1177. 2 XBOX 360 Platinums, best offer. Call (905)434-7617 3-PC LIVING ROOM SET,sofa & 2 arms chairs w/matching lamp; mahogany china cabinet; Roland electric keyboard w/stand; cur- tains; dog cage 27"x17"; telephone jacks and more items. (905)579- 0840 9"radial arm saw, 14" wood band saw, Mastercraft wood lathe, Shef- field-Cornet 28" swing, bowl lathe, 6" industrial joiner, Toro 20" snow blower, all tools in good or seldom used shape. 905-885-1405. A DININGROOM, cherry wood, double pedestal table, 8 chairs, Buffet, hutch, dovetail construc- tion. New, still in boxes. Cost $11,000, sacrifice $2,600. 416- 746-0995. A King orthopedic pillowtop mat- tress set. New in plastic, cost $1600. Sacrifice $550. 416-746- 0995. Can deliver APPLIANCES,refrigerator, stove, heavy duty Kenmore washer & dryer, apartment size washer & dryer. Mint condition. Will sell sep- arately, can deliver. Call (905)839- 0098 A-1 CARPETS, CARPETS, CAR- PETS!! 3 rooms installed with pad from $289 (30 yds). All Berber carpets on sale now! Free up- grade to 12 mm premium pad with every installation, 20 oz Berber carpet starting at 0.69 sq. ft., car- pet only. Lots of selection for eve- ry budget. Three month equal payment plan available. Free in home quote. SAILLIAN CARPETS at 905-242-3691 or 905-373-2260, 1-800-578-0497. ADJUSTABLE CUSTOM de- signed shelving, can be used for many purposes. A+ condition, floor mirror, store closing. Call (905)432-2102. AFFORDABLE APPLIANCES, HANK'S APPLIANCES Refrigera- tors, $99/up. Washers, dryers $125/up. Stoves, $149/up, Visit our showroom. Large selection! Parts.426 Simcoe St.S. (905)728- 4043. ALL NEW QUEEN orthopedic mattress, cost $1000, sell $200. Call 905-213-4669. BED,Aamazing bargain, queen orthopedic mattress set, new in plastic, warranty, $250. 416-741- 7557.Will deliver BEDROOM SET,cherrywood, bed, chest, dresser, mirror, 2 night stands. Dovetail construction, nev- er opened. Cost $8,000 Sacrifice $1,900. (416)748-3993 BEDROOM SUITE,gorgeous cherry sleigh, triple dresser/mirror, tall dresser, 2 night tables, new. Cost $7450, sell $1,900. Call 905- 213-4669. BITS AND BYTES COMPUTER Services: P4/1.8Ghz (IBM Dsktp) 512mb/40g/dvd-cd-rw: only $319., add matching 17" Flat (CRT) Moni- tor for $65., Laptops. Call for Cur- rent Inventory. Repairs at reason- able rates. 112 Luke Street, Oshawa. (905) 576-9216 or email: bitsandbytes@rogers.com www.bitsandbytestech.com BURTON CHARGER 61 Snow Board, with Ride SE bindings & boots (size 10.5) very good condi- tion. Asking $450. (905)421-9935 CARPETS.Laminate and vinyl sale. 3 rooms, 30sq yds. for $319. Commercial carpet including pre- mier underpad and installation. Laminate $1.69sq ft. Click system. Residential, commercial, customer satisfaction guaranteed. Free Esti- mate. Mike 905-431-4040 COMPUTER TROUBLE?We offer you On-Site Networking & Com- puter Repairs/Upgrades, Virus Re- moval & Wireless Security. We also sell New/Used Systems & Laptops. For your computer Re- pairs/Sales call S D L 905-428- 7559, cell 416-892-6965 DINING ROOM SUITE,cherry- wood, buffet, hutch, arm chairs & side chairs, pedestal table, dove- tail drawers, Cost $9550, sell for $2950. New, still in boxes. 905- 213-4669. FRIGIDARE STOVE & Refrigera- tor. Paid $1425, asking $800 firm. White Westinghouse Washer and Dryer asking $500. 905-576-9946. GENERATOR BLOW-OUT!!All sizes, eg. 1800 watt $349.00. New, warranty. 888-743-9378. HEINTZMAN 6 FT.mahogany grand piano, circa 1920, 2 owners only. Good condition. Piano bench included. Asking $5,500. Contact Oshawa (905) 725-2077. HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS Best Price, Best Quality. All Shapes & Colours. Call 1-866-585-0056 www.thecoverguy.ca HOT TUB COVERS & Pool Safety Covers - best quality, best prices, all colours, all sizes. Delivery in- cluded. PAUL'S HOME AND LEI- SURE 905-259-4514 or 866-972- 6837 www.homeandleisure.ca KENMORE WASHING machine $250., or best offer, Tems Physio machine $200., walking treadmill $350 firm. telephone (9050 831- 3158 LARGE ALUMINUM ICE HUT,3 burner stove, stereo, lights. York 9500 weight bench with squat rack, leg exerciser, 5-600 lbs. in weights, multiple bars. 3 sets down hill skis, boots, poles, ski bag. 2 pair hockey skates. Scuba weight belt & weights. 705-786-0210. MOVING SALE beautiful newer 3-pc sectional includes 2 recliners & double bed. 9-drawer dresser w/2 mirrors. chair w/ottoman, wing chair, dehumidifer, new Carlsberg Keg barfridge. 905-420-3951 NEW DANBY APT sized freezers $209. New Danby bar fridges, $119/up. Also, variety of new ap- pliances, scratch and dent. Full manufacturers warranty. Recondi- tioned fridges $195/up, ranges $125/up, dryers $125/up, washers $199/up, new and coin operated washers and dryers at low prices. New Danby Frost-Free Apt. size fridges $399., new 24" and 30" ranges with clock and window @$399 Reconditioned 24" rang- es and 24" frost free fridges now available. Wide selection of other new and reconditioned appliances. Call us today, Stephenson's Appli- ances, Sales, Service, Parts. 154 Bruce St. Oshawa.(905)576-7448 To Place an Ad in Ajax or Pickering Call 905-683-0707 or Tor. line 1-416-798-7259 Email: classifi eds@durhamregion.com Classifi eds On-Line Web Site: www.durhamregion.com ClassifiedsClassifiedsNews AdvertiserNews Advertiser 130 Commercial Ave., Ajax Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9:00-5 Closed Saturday NEWS ADVERTISER,TUESDAY EDITION, December 20, 2005, PAGE 9 A/Pwww.durhamregion.com OUTSTANDING HOLIDAY AUCTION Antiques, Collectables, Quality Furniture Boxing Day Monday December 26th, 9:30 a.m. (Viewing 8:00 a.m.) MacGregor Auctions located in ORONO at Silvanus Gardens. Take 115 Hwy. to Main St. Orono & follow signs to Mill Pond Rd. Our Boxing Day Auction features an exceptional offering of articles from past to present - Diningroom sets (Strathroy) flat-to-wall & pine stepback cupboards, 2 door icebox, lg. oak china cabinet, gramaphone ("Sonora"), 30's Duncan phyfe kitchen sets, washstands, hoosier (ref), 1920's burled oak desk (McColl Frontenac), Gibbard dressers, excep- tional offering of chairs & rockers (sets, individuals, parlour, Eastlake, Victorian, Kaufman, Pressbacks etc), Tables including kitchen, parlour, candle, lamp, Victorian, icecream, Eastlake etc), Early lighting, crocks & jugs, advertising pcs. (tins, paper etc), 2 violins (Fecit), mantle clocks, early tools (planes, rulers etc), cast bathtub, quilts, wood boxes, wall box, butter bowl, Bayonette wood hockey game, decoys, tin toys, bookcases, curio stand, quality glass & china (Royal Crown Derby, Wedgewood, Belleek, Cornflower, Nippon, Royal Winton etc.), salt & pepper collection, silver serving set, flatware (Roger Brothers etc), plus many more rare & unique articles. See photo's (www.macgregortheauctionadvertiser.com) Te r ms cash, cheque, Visa, M/C & Interac (Exceptional New Years Day Auction Sunday Jan. 1st 11:00 a.m. Watch for ad) MacGregor Auctions 905-987-2112 1-800-363-6799 4500 000 000 000 M ENZIES F IN ANCIAL S ERVICES “AUTO LOAN S ” Call Alex Ned a n o v s k i Open 24 hrs./ 7 d a y s w k . Call 1-888-26 9 - 1 6 8 7 o r l o g o n t o : www.ezautolo a n . n e t YOU ARE APPROVED ! Simply Prove Your Income Your Residence You are Insurable You have a Valid Drivers License Only $299 Down NEWSTART LEASING 1-866-340-5559 NEW KITCHEN CABINETS,fully assembled in boxes, white, com- plete kitchens 50% off - priced to sell. Surplus inventory, great qual- ity. Please call (905)579-4454 ext. 11 or 905-242-0180. PIANO TECHNICIAN available for tuning, repairs & pre-purchase consultation. Used upright or grand acoustic pianos for sale. Moving, rentals available. Call 905-427-7631 or visit: www.barbhall.com PIANOS - AND - CLOCKS - Christmas specials on now, check us out. Not sure if your kids will stick with lessons..try our unique rent-to-own system. 100% of all rental payments apply! Large selection of upright and electronic pianos and Howard Miller clocks. Makes the perfect Christmas gift.. Super special sale on all grand pianos instock. Yamaha, Kawai, Heintzmann etc. Call TELEP PIANO 905-433-1491. www.Telep.ca WE WILL NOT BE UNDERSOLD! POOL table, 1" slate. Solid wood. New in box, accessory package in- cluded. Cost $6750 sell for $2300. 905-213-4669. RENT TO OWN - New and recon- ditioned appliances, new TV's, Stereos, Computers, DVD Players, Furniture, Bedding, Patio Furni- ture, Barbecues & More! Fast de- livery. No credit application re- fused. Paddy's Market, 905-263- 8369 or 1-800-798-5502. SCHUBERT PIANO apt. size $1100 o.b.o. Round oak table, 4 chairs, new $199. Kenmore deep freezer 18cu.ft. $299. Diningroom set, table, 6 chairs, buffet $1,900. Call (905)655-4138 SONY TRINITRON WEGA, HD, 40" TV, with base, cost approx. $5,000, asking $1,650. nearly new. Call 905-428-4557 ask for Gary STORE CLOSING:hundreds of leather shoes, Must Be Sold! Start- ing @$29.99, but one pair, second pair HALF PRICE! Chesler's Shoes, 250 Taunton Rd.E., Oshawa, (905)432-2102 TARPS - Woven Poly Tarps, all sizes from 8'x10' to 30'x50'. Priced $7. - $90. (tax incl.) Call Bowman- ville 905-623-5258. A1 FIREWOOD.Call (905)436- 6600 or 905-260-1774 ASH, MAPLE, BEECH,Kozy Heat Firewood, excellent, best quality hardwood, guaranteed extra time fully seasoned, (ready to burn), cut/split. Honest measurement. Free delivery. Dependable, quality service since 1975. (905)753- 2246. FIREWOOD FOR SALE - call Gerry at 905-427-7243 or 416- 281-5455, $85/face cord. FIREWOOD,seasoned, hard- wood, dry. Delivery available. Call (905)986-5217 or cell 905-424- 9411 CHIHUAHUA -Male & Female puppies. 8 weeks old, short- haired, various colours. Family raised. Parents on site. Females $800, Males $700. Call after 6p.m. (705)887-6445. DOBERMAN, RED X Chocolate lab pups, 6 male, 6 female, ready before or for Christmas. First come, first serve! $450 each. Call now! (905)571-6283 JACK RUSSELL puppies, 7 weeks old, first shots, ready to go. (905)986-5217 or (905)424-9411 PUG PUPPIES vet checked, shots, home raised. Ready to go. 905-438-9355 between 8:30-5:00; evenings 905-623-7998 PUREBRED LAB PUPS,Choco- late, Yellow & Black. CKC regis- tered, micro chipped, first shots, dewormed, parents on site. Ready to go. (905)431-9851 SCHNAUZER POODLE puppies, beautiful, mini's, non-shedding, tails, dew claws and shots done, vet checked, ready to go Dec. 20th, $600. 905-885-7968. SHIH TZU PUPPIES FOR SALE, vaccinated, dewormed, vet checked, $450 each Call 905- 260-8855. 1976 CORVETTE STINGRAY,t- bar roof, cover, original rims, 350 V-8, in excellent condition. $14,000. Telephone (705)286- 4905. 1988 FORD MUSTANG GT Cobra, auto, 206,000km $4995. 1997 Pontiac GTP 193,000kms $5,995. ATV FOR SALE: 2004 Vinson 500 $6,795. 2004 Eiger 400 $4,800. 1993 Honda 4Trax $3,500. Call Doug days (905)985-0074, evenings (905)985-5569, Dealer. 1992 SATURN SC2,143,500kms, e-tested, certified, service records. Pw, pl, 5-speed, cruise, tilt, tinted windows, K&N air filter, very clean, great on gas $2700. 905-440- 4348. 1994 BUICK CENTURY with 193,000 km. Just had oil spray done, new struts, front brakes, tint- ed windows, C.D. player, power windows and locks. Runs well. Re- cently passed E-test. As is. Asking $1,000. Call (905) 424-3508, (905) 697-9312 for more informa- tion. 1996 OLDS ACHIEVA V6 auto great shape new tires $2995; 1995 DODGE NEON new head gasket $2495; 1997 FORD AEROSTAR 7 passenger $1995. All vehicles cer- tifies/emission passed, warranty included. Dealer 905-718-5032 1999 CHEV LUMINA, p.w., p.l., air, well maintained, certified/e- tested 195,000kms. $3,600. Call (905)683-3180 2003 SATURN VUE, yellow, 69,000 kms, fully loaded plus pow- er sunroof, roof racks and running boards, extended warranty until Dec. 2006, what a steal at $14,500. Call 905-377-8399, leave message. NEED SPECIAL FINANCING? DRIVE TODAYA NEW 2005 OR USED 96 OR NEWER VEHICLE CALL 24 HR. CREDIT HOTLINE 1-800-405-7161 1-866-826-7681 CALL BRIDGET BANKRU PTCY SLOW CREDIT NO CREDIT GOOD CREDIT ALL CREDIT CHALLENGES NO APPLICATIONS REFUSED CELL: $ $ A & 1 AARON & LEO Scrap Cars & Trucks Wanted. Cash paid 7 days/week anytime. Pleases call 905-426-0357. $ $ ADAM & RON'S SCRAP cars, trucks, vans. Pay cash, free pick up 7 days/week (anytime) 905- 424-3508. $ $75+ TOP DOLLARS - Ajax Auto Wreckers pays for vehicles. We buy all scrap metal, copper, aluminum, fridges, stoves, etc. 905-686-1771; 416-896-7066 1 A - ALL SCRAP CARS,old cars & trucks wanted. Cash paid. Free pickup. Call Bob anytime (905)431-0407. ABC-A1 JOHNNY JUNKER. To ps all for good cars and trucks or free removal for scrap cars and trucks. Speedy service. (905)655- 4609 or (416)286-6156. CASH FOR CARS! We buy used vehicles. Vehicles must be in run- ning condition. Call (905)427-2415 or come to 479 Bayly St. East, Ajax at MURAD AUTO SALES AAA #1 New Arrival Diane, Erotic, Busty, Tall, Slim 905-922-4787 Mulatto Female Domination / Toys 24 hrs (Oshawa) Asian Girls Best Service Best Price Best Quality Girls 19+, Singapore, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and more 24hrs, Out Calls only 905-260-1238 416-833-3123 PICKERING ANGELS ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Relaxing Massage VIP Rooms & Jacuzzi 905 Dillingham Rd.#3 (905)420-0320 pickeringangels.com Private Massage By Asian Girl Hot & Sweet Central Ajax 905-619-9945 North Oshawa 905-429-2420 Need a Handyman? •Fire/Water Damage •Drywall Taping/Painting •Flooring •Full Basement Renos. (Framed, Drywall, Taping, Insulating $5800 based on 1400sq.ft. house incl. material) No up front fees! (905)728-8973 SIMPCO IMPROVEMENTS Specializing in a variety of Home Improvements and Custom Renovations. (905) 426-9383 or (905) 442-3742 ALL PRO PAINTING AND WALLPAPERING Repair & Stucco ceilings Decorative finishes & General repairs 20% off for seniors (905)404-9669 EMMONS, Stephen Michael.Past President of Epilepsy Ontario, Past President of Kinsmen Club of Pickering. Suddenly at his residence with his family by his side on Saturday, December 17, 2005 in his 54th year. Beloved husband of Maureen. Loving fa- ther of Jessica and Scott. Cherished son of Dorothy Emmons. Predeceased by his father Gerald. Broth- er to David (Barbara) and Donald (Beverly). Brother -in-law of Stephen (Joan) Loft and Marnie (Michael) Lysaker. He will be sadly missed by several nieces, nephews and all who knew him. The family will re- ceive friends at the MCEACHNIE FUNERAL HOME, (28 Old Kingston Road, Ajax 905-428-8488) on Tuesday, December 20, 2005 from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, December 21, 2005 at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Redeem- er Roman Catholic Church (796 Eyer Drive, Picker- ing ). Cremation. In lieu of flowers donations to Fa milies for a Secure Future would be greatly ap- preciated. FLETCHER-PENTON,Barbara (nee Bond) on Sun- day, December 18th, 2005. Barbara loving partner of the late John Fletcher and the late Townley (Tom) Penton. Fabulous mother of Laura Berry Budd (James), John Larry Fletcher (Heather), Diane Barrett (Dermott), and Mary Frances Penton. Cher- ished Granny of Craig and Matt, "GP" of Lesley, Jenn, and Lisa and Grandma of Maura and Colin. Fr iends will be received at the ACCETTONE FUNERAL HOME,384 Finley Ave., Ajax (905-428- 9090) on Tuesday, December 20th from 6-9 p.m. and on Wednesday, December 21st from 1 until the time of service in the chapel at 2 p.m. In lieu of flow- ers donations made to the Lakeridge Health Whitby Foundation, Dialysis Unit, in Barbara's memory would be appreciated by her family. TMS PAINTING & DECOR Interior & Exterior European Workmanship Fast, clean, reliable service (905)428-0081 ELITE MOVING $40/hr., 2-movers+ Tr uck, Excellent Ser- vice, Short notice. Insured. Reliable, Ex- perienced, Punctual. 416-560-2723 SUPREME HOUSECLEANING BY LAURIE I work alone, 21 yrs. in business. I do everything AND I also bring my own cleaners. Weekly or Bi-weekly (905) 426-3711 A/P PAGE 10 NEWS ADVERTISER,TUESDAY EDITION, December 20, 2005 www.durhamregion.com durhamregion.comdurhamregion.comYour Election Headquarters at... electiondurhamregion.com • Follow our Federal Election Bloggers in: Oshawa Riding Oshawa-Whitby Riding Durham Riding Ajax-Pickering Riding Pickering-Scarborough East Riding Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock Riding • Riding maps and voter information • Exploring the Issues • Candidates Profi les • Vote in our weekly Reader Poll • Send in your photos from the campaign trail • Send us your letters on the Federal Election Email letters and photos to newsroom@durhamregion.com See it online at durhamregion.com NO TIME TO TALK Why not Fax us your ad! You can use your fax machine to send us your advertisement. Please allow time for us to confirm your ad copy and price prior to deadline. One of our customer service representatives will call you. Please remem- ber to leave your company name, address, phone number and contact name. ☎☎☎☎☎ Fax NEWS ADVERTISER 905-579-4218 To place your personalized In Memoriam, call 905-683-0707 (Ajax) and let one of our professional advisors help you. A/P PA GE 11 ◆ NEWS ADVERTISER ◆ DECEMBER 20, 2005 Located in Pickering Village, 100 Old Kingston Rd.,Ajax 905-428-6266 •905-428-8792 Authorized dealer for MOST MAJOR brands Durham School of Music Ltd.est.1987 GUITARS $7499starting at NOW $225reg. $450ONLY 20 AVAILABLE MUSIC LESSON GIFT CERTIFICATES NOW AVAILABLE Fender Dod Takamine Jackson Gibson Ibanez Ovation Parker Roland Marshall Crate Art Pearl Simon & Patrick Tama Yorkville Yamaha Norman Korg Casio Washburn Elite Godin Epiphone Boss Vox Tascam Now enrolling for MUSIC LESSONS Violin Bass Piano Flute Vocal Clarinet Percussion Theory Guitar Trumpet Sax…and more INCREDIBLEmusic PACKAGES THIS WEEK ONLY! Give the gift ofmusic This Christmas 2002 2003 2004 reg. $49999 NOW $29999 FENDER ACOUSTIC PACKAGESFENDER ACOUSTIC PACKAGES $175 - $369 ELECTRIC PACKAGES $786 $399 BASS PACKAGES reg. NOW DRUM KITS ONLY 3 LEFT from A/P PA GE 12 ◆ NEWS ADVERTISER ◆ DECEMBER 20, 2005 C elebratetheTrueCelebrate the True MeaningofChristmasMeaning of Christmas 55 Emperor St., Ajax, Ontario L1S 1M9 905-428-1985 Email: southsideworshipcentre@rogers.com “Living beyond the box” CHRISTMAS EVECHRISTMAS EVE Service 7:00 pmService 7:00 pm CHRISTMAS DAYCHRISTMAS DAY Service 10:30 amService 10:30 am Pickering Village United Church 300 Church St. N, Ajax 905.683.4721 Christmas Eve ServicesChristmas Eve Services •5:00pm Children’s Service• 5:00pm Children’s Service •7:30pm Family Service• 7:30pm Family Service •11:00pm Candlelit Communion Service• 11:00pm Candlelit Communion Service •10:30am Christmas Day Service• 10:30am Christmas Day Service Visit www.pvuc.ca for more information.Visit www.pvuc.ca for more information. HOLY REDEEMER CHURCH 796 EYER DRIVE PICKERING L1W 3C2 December 24th CHRISTMAS EVE 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 11:00 p.m. December 25th CHRISTMAS DAY ONE MASS ONLY 10:30 A.M. CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE All Nations Full Gospel Church #14-1735 Bayly St., Pickering 905-420-0887 SERVICE TIMES Sun. 10 am - 12 noon, Sun. 6:30 - 8:30 pm, Wed. 6:30 - 8:30 pm NEW YEAR’S SERVICE DEC. 31 9:00 pm - 12 midnight NEW YEAR’S DAY SERVICE 10:00 am - 12 noon COME AND BE BLESSED CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLE LIGHT & CAROL SERVICE 6:00 pm 115 Ritchie Ave. (Corner of Ritchie and Westney) 905-427-6613 St. Isaac Jogues Catholic Church 1148 Finch Avenue, Pickering, L1V 1J6 905-831-3353 Reconciliation & Celebration of Christmas Masses St. Isaac Jogues Church 2005 Sacrament of Reconciliation - Confessions Saturday, December 24, 9:00 am to 11:00 am CHRISTMAS MASSES - DECEMBER 24 Saturday December 24th 4:00 pm, 6:00 pm, 8:00 pm, 10:00 pm & 12:00 midnight CHRISTMAS DAY - DECEMBER 25 Sunday December 25th 8:30 am, 10:00 am, 11:30 am NO EVENING MASS St. Paul’s on-the-hill Anglican Church 882 Kingston Rd., Pickering L1V 1A8 905-839-7909 www.stpaulsonthehill.com Christmas Celebrations Saturday, December 24th: 4:00 pm Children’s & Family Christmas Worship 7:00 pm Contemporary Christmas Worship 9:00 pm Contemporary Christmas Worship 11:00 pm Traditional Christmas Worship with Choir Sunday, December 25th: 10:00 am Christmas Day Family Worship C elebratetheTrueCelebrate the True MeaningofChristmasMeaning of Christmas ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT durhamregion.com Jason Liebregts/ News Advertiser photo Emilie Corcoran has been kicking up a storm in her four years of Irish dancing. Emilie Corcoran earns a spot at World Irish Dancing Championships in Ireland this April By Mike Ruta Staff editor PICKERING — Emilie Corcor- an’s dream is to hoof it with the Riverdance. And the 11-year-old Pickering girl is well on her way to realizing it. After just four years of Irish dancing, she has earned a spot to compete against the best on earth next spring at the World Irish Dancing Championships in Ireland. You can bet that when she does, Corcoran will have a big smile on her face. “The trick to dancing is to look like you’re having fun and not fake it,” she says. “It’s obvious if you’re not having fun and you won’t do well.” Corcoran’s wanted to dance since she was much younger. Ballet first caught her attention, “because I like the tutu. “But because I have Irish blood in me my parents showed me a Riverdance video and I really liked it.” Corcoran likes the fact that Irish dancing is unique among dances, and she loves competing and learning new steps. She plays soccer and volleyball at her school, Ecole elementaire Notre-Dame-de-la-Jeunesse, but says she has to be careful not to hurt her feet. Corcoran practices three times a week and competes in about 10 or 12 events per year. She started dancing at the PSB Dance Academy in Pickering, but now works out of the Plummer Stu- dios in Scarborough, where she is coached by Ron Plummer, an Irish dancing legend. “Oh yes,” Corcoran enthuses when asked if Plummer has helped her. “He’s a really good dancer.” Plummer’s daughter comes to Corcoran’s house once a week for a private lesson, convenient- ly held in the basement, where there’s a dance floor for Corcoran to work on her steps. “Very, very early on, she had a 4-x-8-foot piece of plywood she could practise on,” recalls dad Brendan Corcoran. It wasn’t too long, however, be- fore Corcoran was ranging off the board and needed an upgrade, he says. While Mr. Corcoran and his wife, Josee Leclerc, were proud and surprised to see Corcoran move on to the worlds, Corco- ran herself was stunned, but in a good way. At the Eastern Ca- nadian Regional Oireachtas last month, she finished seventh out of 60 dancers to advance. Pretty impressive, given that Corcoran’s goal was to recall (make it to the finals). “She was hyperventilating; she was shocked,” Mr. Corcoran says. He notes that at a recent com- petition in Ottawa, Corcoran earned one of the qualifications she needs to reach champion level, the highest a dancer can attain. She knows there’s a lot of work to do before the April event, where the whole family will be on hand to lend her support. “We’re planning on having pri- vate lessons with a teacher and I’m working even harder nights and learning new steps,” Corco- ran says. Her parents have taught her that winning isn’t everything. And Emilie has been a very apt pupil, dancing chiefly for the pleasure it brings her. “It’s not most important for me to place but to have fun and know I did my best,” she says. Pickering girl is steppin’ to the emerald isle Youth take centre stage at DWAC show in Pickering Village AJAX — Ajax and Pickering have hundreds of talented art- ists, and some of them are still in school. That’s the focus of the Youth Show on now at the Durham West Arts Centre. Ajax and Pickering students from Notre Dame Catho- lic Secondary School, Pickering High School, J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate and Glengrove Public School are displaying close to 30 works at the centre, 72B Old Kingston Rd., in Pickering Village. The list of artists includes An- drea Por from Pickering High School. The Grade 12 student’s pen- cil drawing, ‘Helena,’ received the best in show youth award last month at the PineRidge Arts Council’s 7th Juried Art Exhibi- tion. She recently began working in acrylic and is showing two works in the Youth Show exhibition, ‘Spider Webs’ and ‘Teapot Still Life.’ Also showing work are Jennifer Pereira of J. Clarke, Karlo Milanes from Notre Dame and Glengrove’s Katie Gaskin. The media range from photo- graphs to soapstone, and from plaster to pen-and-ink works. The show runs until Jan. 12. For more information, call 905- 686-7697 or visit www.dwac.ca.