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NA2007_12_05
Councillor concerned four months isn’t enough time for businesses to ‘get their ducks in order’ PICKERING — As of March 25, Pickering pesticide control companies may have to find alternate methods to kill unwanted critters. A draft pesticide bylaw was passed at the most recent Council meeting, indi- cating that pesticides will be banned from commercial use as of March 25, 2008, and Jan. 1, 2009 for residents. Ward 1 Regional Councillor Bonnie Littley agreed with the banning of pes- ticides, but not the dates, especially for companies. “I just think March is a little too soon to get their ducks in order to start the spraying season,” she said. But Ward 1 City Councillor Jennifer O’Connell said she thinks four months is sufficient time for public consulta- tion. “If we take out these dates and keep an open window, this ban will never come into effect,” she said. Ward 2 City Councillor Doug Dick- erson reminded everyone that the banning of pesticides has been dis- cussed for the past couple of years in Pickering. He said most pesticide operators he’s spoken with recognize the ban is coming, and don’t believe it will ad- versely affect their business. Coun. O’Connell agreed, and said there were similar fears in other mu- nicipalities that have passed the bylaw, such as Toronto. “The sky did not fall, as many thought it would,” she said. Every councillor, besides Coun. Lit- tley, voted in favour of the draft bylaw. Once consultation with residents and stakeholders is complete, it will come back to Council for final approval. In an interview, Coun. O’Connell said rough dates are set for public consultation meetings in early Janu- ary, and they’ll be confirmed at a later date. She said the City is also thinking of launching an online questionnaire to assist those who can’t attend the meetings. Mayor Dave Ryan complimented Coun. O’Connell and Ward 3 City Councillor David Pickles for their hard work on the matter and said “I know there is no difference of opinion on this issue.” Deficit leads to bus route changes By Erin Hatfield ehatfield@durhamregion.com DURHAM — Use it or lose it, Phil Meagher says. The deputy general manager for Durham Region Transit (DRT) says this has been the deal with local transit since its inception. “If ridership isn’t there to support the service, we are not going to run empty buses all day,” Mr. Meagher says. Now facing a $2.3 million deficit, DRT is tweaking routes, making cuts and planning no service expansions in 2008. Mr. Meagher says DRT is re- viewing the frequencies of stops and changing routing to achieve efficien- cies and increase ridership. “We track boardings per hour and the boardings for some routes are low,” he explains. “We have mini- mum service standards and we have to maintain those.” The first round of adjustments is in January 2008, with more to follow in March and July, but Mr. Meagher says the changes shouldn’t affect the operators. “We are trying to avoid any layoffs,” he says. “None are planned for right now and hopefully this will help us balance our work force a little bet- ter.” Changes are being made in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Osha- wa. “There are some expansion in those changes,” Mr. Meagher says. “We reduced frequency in some off peaks and increased peaks because we are getting crushed loads in the morning going to the college.” Launched in January 2006, DRT amalgamated Durham’s municipal transit systems and Mr. Meagher says the changes are just growing pains. “This is all part of the growth and amalgamation,” he says. “Last year The Pickering 52 PAGES ✦ Metroland Durham Region Media Group ✦ WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2007 ✦ Optional delivery charge $6 / Newsstand charge $1 THE SCIENCE OF SNOW Jason Liebregts/ News Advertiser photo PICKERING — Sarah Newell learns about the Science of Snow at the Pickering Library on Saturday afternoon. The real stuff would be on its way overnight in the area. Send a holiday greeting to the troops JOIN US IN SENDING POST CARDS/ VIDEO TRIBUTES TO AFGHANISTAN Pages A5 and B10 Pickering gets festive Send us your photos PICKERING — This Friday night, the City of Pickering will be filled with light. The City is holding its annual Christ- mas Tree Lighting event from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m, with activities and perfor- mances at Pickering City Hall and Es- planade Park. The children’s group, Splash’N Boots, will perform its entertaining show, fea- turing Christmas tunes in the gazebo at Esplanade Park. Kids can take a ride on horse-drawn wagons and partici- pate in activities, such as decorating Santa hats. They can even expect a visit from Santa Claus and Frosty. The Pickering Com- munity Concert Band will also play some holiday clas- sics in the Council chambers. The evening will end with fireworks and the flick of a switch, lighting thou- sands of Christmas lights and the Christmas tree at Esplanade Park. For more information on the event, call 905-420-4660 ext. 2064. Now is your chance to get your photo in the News Advertiser. E-mail your photos to interactive@durhamregion. com or upload them at mediamash. ca. For more on the transit changes featur- ing maps of the affected routes check our website at newsdurhamregion.com ✦ See Transit, Page A2 ROUND PIZZAROUND PIZZA $$29294949+ tax onlyonly 2 Large Pizza’s2 Large Pizza’s 10 slices each with10 slices each with 3 toppings 3 toppings of your choice on eachof your choice on each 10 wings and10 wings and 4 Free cans of pop4 Free cans of pop 2 Free Dipping Sauces2 Free Dipping Sauces Christmas Party SpecialsChristmas Party Specials 2 Bigfoot2 Bigfoot®®ClassicClassic 20 slices per pizza with 3 toppings20 slices per pizza with 3 toppings of your choice on each,of your choice on each, 6 Free cans of pop6 Free cans of pop 4 Free Dipping Sauces4 Free Dipping Sauces BigfootBigfoot®®GiantGiant 28 slice pizza with28 slice pizza with 3 toppings of your choice3 toppings of your choice 20 wings20 wings 6 Free cans of pop6 Free cans of pop 2 Free Dipping Sauces2 Free Dipping Sauces $$36369999+ tax+ tax onlyonly$$36369999+ tax+ tax onlyonly 713 Krosno Blvd. Pickering 905-839-4411713 Krosno Blvd. Pickering 905-839-44110)::! 35"3 7).'3 WE DELIVERWE DELIVER WINTER MAINTENANCE PACKAGE www.pickeringhonda.com 575 KINGSTON RD • Oil & filter change • Tire rotation • Coolant check • Brake Inspection 905-831-5400 $$1 5 0 Value F or On ly $5 9 .9 5$5 9 .9 5$5 9 .9 5 Pickering makes the move to ban pesticides PICKERING — Officers responding to a report of a robbery Saturday night picked up two suspects who have since been connected to a robbery the previ- ous evening. A knife was held to the throat of one worker while others were herded into the kitchen of the Mary Brown’s res- taurant on Kingston Road after three masked suspects entered the premises around 10 p.m. Saturday, Durham po- lice said. The men fled with cash and bolted when a cop responding to an emer- gency call spotted them on the street nearby, police said. Officers tracked down two suspects, seizing a seven- inch butcher knife from the waistband of one. Further investigation led cops to charge the men with the robbery of a Subway sandwich shop on Brock Road Friday night. Segun Anwar Roberts, 19, of Scarbor- ough and a 17-year-old whose identity is protected by law are charged with robbery, wearing a disguise and weap- ons offences. Two arrested in Mary Brown’s robbery we said let the merged services operate. Now this is the second year and we have to fine tune some of the routes.” The deficit resulted in the changes and is blamed on rid- ership, less than anticipated growth and the access pass for Ontario Disability Support Pro- gram (ODSP) recipients, which became available in November 2006 and cost DRT $300,000. The local DRT/GO co-fare agreement, allowing custom- ers travelling on DRT buses to board GO Transit buses with a pre-paid DRT ticket, pass or transfer, was more successful than anticipated. Still causing an impact is the labour strike in October 2006. “We are still suffering the im- pact of that in ridership,” Mr. Meagher says. “It is still causing a revenue shortfall.” 'IVE THEM -/2% OF WHAT THEY WANT #ANT DECIDE WHAT TO GIVE 0ICK UP 3CARBOROUGH 4OWN #ENTRE 'IFT #ERTIFICATES AND GIVE THE FUN OF SHOPPING AT OVER STORES AND SERVICES $ENOMINATIONS OF AND GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE %ASY TO GIVE FUN TO GET !VAILABLE AT 'UEST 3ERVICES LOCATED ON THE 5PPER ,EVEL OUTSIDE 7AL -ART &IND -/2%AT YOUR #ENTRE /VER SHOPS AND SERVICES (79 BETWEEN "RIMLEY AND -C#OWAN corner of Taunton & Salem Road Ajax No Charge Performances 905-686-0951 Friday December 7th 7:30 pm Sunday December 9th 6:00 pm Durham’s Stirring Christmas Musical FaithWayFaithWay Baptist ChurchBaptist Church WE’VE GOT YOUR SIZE Sizes 4-15 Widths AA-EEE PICKERING TOWN CENTRE • UPPER LEVEL • SEARS WING PAGE A2 ◆ N EWS A D VERTIS ER ◆ December 5, 2007P HUB PLAZA HUB PLAZA PICKERING SQUARE PICKERING SQUARE AY GES AZA AY GES AZA FIRST PICKERING PLACE FIRST PICKERING PLACE WESTN HEIG H PLAZ WESTN HEIG H PLAZ PICKERING TOWN CENTRE PICKERING TOWN CENTRE METRO EAST TRADE CENTRE METRO EAST TRADE CENTRE BROCK ROAD SHOPPING CENTRE BROCK ROAD SHOPPING CENTRE Bayly S t r e e t Bayly S t r e e tLiverpool RoadLiverpool RoadBrock RoadBrock Road Glenanna R o a dGlenanna R o a d Pickering ParkwayPickeringParkway Squires BeSquires BeFinch AvenueFinch Avenue Westney RoadWestney Road PICKERINGPICKERING AJAXAJAXChurch StreetChurch Street Kingston R o a d Kingston R o a dValley Farm RoadValley Farm RoadNotion RoadNotion RoadSandy BeSandy Be401401 Transit says 2006 strike is still impacting ridership Durham Region Transit is eliminating this route in January that runs through Ajax and Pickering. Statistics supplied to Durham Region note only 27 people take the bus each hour. DRT says the service is being duplicated by GO Transit. Sudoku It’s fun It’s challenging It’s addictive! A new puzzle each day Five different levels of difficulty Oh, and did we mention it’s addictive?durhamregion.comNOW ONLINE 48 1 7 8 6 7 3 576 1 86 9 5 6 7 687 3 91 4 19 24 Check it out at 48 1 7 8 6 7 3 576 1 86 9 5 6 7 687 3 91 4 19 24 48 1 7 8 6 7 3 576 1 86 9 5 6 7 687 3 91 4 19 24 48 1 7 8 6 7 3 576 1 86 9 5 6 7 687 3 91 4 19 24 ✦ Transit from page A1 DURHAM — Regional Council isn’t quite prepared to endorse a resolution that calls chemical pesticides into question. The City of Waterloo passed a resolution and forwarded it to Durham Re- gional Council for consider- ation, calling on the federal government to immediate- ly review and confirm the safety and the efficacy of all chemical pesticides ap- proved by the federal gov- ernment. It also asks the Province to review pesticides ap- proved for sale and use in Ontario. “Certainly I think the ag- ricultural community has grave concerns about this,” Uxbridge Councillor Howie Herrema said. “This goes far beyond cosmetic.” Scugog Mayor Marilyn Pearce said she agreed with Coun. Herrema and intro- duced a motion to refer the resolution to the health and social services committee. Council approved the re- ferral motion. Pesticide question sent to health committee Undercover officers placed in jail cell By Jeff Mitchell jmitchell@durhamregion.com DURHAM — It didn’t take a murder suspect long to become suspicious of two undercover cops who were placed in his jail cell, a jury has heard. Durham officer Krishanthakumar Ganeshan, who spent a night in a Hamilton jail cell with Neven Belic in 2004 during a homicide investigation, testified Monday it was only a matter of hours before he and his partner were removed from the range. But during that brief time Mr. Belic indicated he was aware of police in- terest in him, and bragged about his violent past, jurors heard. Mr. Belic is standing trial in Whitby on a charge of second-degree mur- der in the death of Eugene “Dwayne” Moses, a 21-year-old Ajax man who was gunned down in a pub on the Os- hawa campus of Durham College on April 3, 2004. He also faces two counts of aggravated assault in the wounding of two other men who were struck by bullets. Durham police had identified him as a person of interest by September of 2004 when investigators hatched a plan to plant two undercover officers inside the Hamilton Wentworth De- tention Centre, where Mr. Belic was being held on another matter. Det. Ganeshan said Mr. Belic was initially concerned when he and his partner were assigned to his two-per- son cell, but eventually became friend- ly, playing cards and sharing candy with the new arrivals, and seeming unconcerned that they witnessed him selling crack cocaine to other inmates and smoking dope himself. The following morning, however, Mr. Belic was complaining about the two new inmates assigned to his cell. And the officer said Mr. Belic approached him in the shower to offer up a pointed observation: “Sorry to say this, but you snore like a cop.” A short time later the officer was removed from the range by a guard captain who said Mr. Belic suspected he was a cop, jurors heard. The officer said he was escorted to a segregation unit, where he found his undercover partner waiting inside a cell. “When I saw (the partner) already in a cell I knew the operation was over,” he said. The officer said that during his time in the jail he did not hear Mr. Belic say anything about the Durham College shooting. But another undercover officer who spent time in a cell alone with Mr. Belic testified the suspect had expressed concern about receiving notice that Durham police were seeking a sample of his DNA in connection with the ho- micide investigation. Mr. Belic also dropped hints about violence in his past, at one point say- ing, “I done shot people already, you know,” jurors heard. The trial, before Superior Court Jus- tice Bruce Glass and a jury, continues. Dentistry for the whole Family www.pickeringdental.ca 905-837-2322 GENERAL AND SPECIALIST CARE Located on the main level at Pickering Town Centre between Zellers and Blacks Evening and weekend appointments are available We work with all insurance companies We put kids big & small at ease NEW ADDITIONS TO OUR TEAM Dr. Michael Tzotzis, Orthodontist Dr. Mark Mojgani, Periodontist Dr. Bradley Gee, General Dentistry Dr. Ayesha Gajraj, General Dentistry we'd love to see your SMILE HappyHappy HolidaysHolidays HappyHappy HolidaysHolidays EATERY OPEN EVERY DAY 9:00 a.m. Here You Can EatHere You Can Eat for as little as you canfor as little as you can Eat at HomeEat at Home BREAKFAST SPECIAL (Daily) ...................$4 49 LUNCHEON SPECIAL (Daily) .....................$6 49 or include soup or salad ......................................................$8 49 TWO CAN DINE FOR .............................$1899 (Everyday of the Week) EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT ................$1399 (Everything on the menu after 5:00 p.m.) Pickering Town Centre 905-839-2507 or less */463"/$&'*/"/$*"- '*345%63)". Need An Insurance Solution? • Auto • Home • Recreational Vehicles • Group Insurance • Business Insurance • Financial Planning Immediate Coverage/Package Discounts Easy Payment Plans Call 905 427-5888 1920 Bayly St., Pickering Visit www.pickeringtowncentre.com for a complete schedule of Santa’s hours. FIND YOUR HOLIDAY HELP pickeringtowncentre.com Visit www.pickeringtowncentre.com for full details. Extended Hours Santa’s Hours PAGE A3 ◆ N EWS A DVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007 A/P Covering the Ajax news scene kgilligan@durhamregion.comREPORTER KEITH GILLIGANNEWS ADVERTISER 905-683-5110 NEWS ADVERTISER 905-683-5110 Suspect in shooting was on to cops quickly: witness By Erin Hatfield ehatfield@durhamregion.com DURHAM — A whooping $1.2-mil- lion donation to The Rouge Valley Health System Foundation’s Gift of Health campaign is the hospital’s larg- est gift to date. Regional Chairman Roger Anderson presented the money, the first install- ment of a $3.5-million commitment Durham Region made towards the hospital redevelopment project, on Dec. 3 at the Ajax site. “Now that construction is under- way, the Region is making good on its pledge,” said Tracy Paterson, the hos- pital’s director of community giving. “This is definitely the biggest cheque under our tree.” The redevelopment project, which officially broke ground in November, is expected to be completed in 2010, and will add more than 140,000 sq. ft. of new and renovated space to the hospital, including a new emergency department. Mr. Anderson said the Region has been setting aside money to make good on its pledge since it was made in 2005. The $1.2 million will be followed by another $1 million in one year and again in 18 months. The money represents 12.5 per cent of the total project cost. The provincial government pays for 70 per cent of the project and the remainder is raised though the community. “It’s important that we support the hospital because we can’t have a com- plete community without a complete hospital,” Mr. Anderson said. “Any community, if you want to be able to call it home, you need to know you can get the medical treatment you and your family need.” AJ Groen/ News Advertiser On behalf of the Rouge Valley Ajax-Pickering hospital, Dr Dina El-Sahrigy accepted a $1.2 million cheque from the Region of Durham presented by chairman, Roger Anderson. Region makes good on hospital pledge By Erin Hatfield ehatfield@durhamregion.com DURHAM — Problems with a leaky landfill have been hanging over the Region’s head, but the purchase of farmland needed to fix the mess means work on the Brock Township Landfill can begin. The parties involved have agreed on a $742,000 price tag that Cliff Cur- tis, Durham’s commissioner of works, said reflects the market value of the farm, adjusted to take into account certain aggregate potential, namely gravel, disturbance damages and costs. A January appraisal of the prop- erty estimated its value at $485,000. A buffer immediately north of the landfill at Brock Concession Road 14 and Sideroad 17 was needed to com- plete remedial work ordered by the Ministry of the Environment (MOE). “We have some further testing to do and then we will start to do some more investigation work and design for the leachate protection system,” Mr. Curtis said. “It will take us three years to complete.” The $13-million Remedial Action Plan will address leaching from the landfill. The leachate or polluted liq- uid has moved beyond the Region’s property line and in October 2006, the MOE ordered Durham to fix the landfill. The works committee originally wouldn’t agree to pay the original asking price and told staff to go back and renegotiate the price. Although the initial offer of $918,000 caused a great deal of debate, Mr. Curtis said the new price was ap- proved without much discussion at the committee level. It didn’t even get a mention when approved by Re- gional Council on Nov. 21. “Everyone recognized we needed to acquire the buffer and this was the most expedient way,” Mr. Curtis said. “Expropriation can take up two years and can be time-consuming and cost- ly.” Although the buffer strip the Region needs to complete the order from the MOE is 300 meters wide and 22 acres long, roughly a quarter of the farm, Mr. Curtis said the purchase of the whole farm made sense. “There has been some concern from residents that we are purchas- ing this property to expand the Brock Township Landfill,” he said. “This is not the case. It just makes operational and business sense for us to purchase the entire property. We are not going to expand the landfill area.” Pay in 24 equal monthly installments, interest free. This transaction will post to your account following the completion of installation (“Posting Date”). The first installment will appear on your first account statement produced after the Posting Date and will be due on the date set out in that statement. Subsequent installments will be due on the dates set out in subsequent statements. On approved credit, only with your Sears Card or Sears MasterCard. Minimum $200 purchase. $70 installment billing fee and all applicable taxes and charges are payable at time of purchase. When billed, any unpaid portion of your Sears Card or Sears MasterCard account balance will attract credit charges, commencing on the billing date for such unpaid portion. Excludes Home Services. Ask for details. Payment options and plan details may be changed or discontinued at any time without notice. Ask about other payment options. Unless otherwise stated, optional financing programs do not qualify for Sears Club™ Points or Colours®Points. *Purchases made on the Sears Card will receive Sears Club Points and purchases made on the Sears MasterCard will receive Colours Points when finance option is not chosen. Sears Club Points do not apply to taxes, installation charges (where applicable) or protection agreement charges NE122H107 ©2007. Sears Canada Inc. Offers end Sun., Dec. 9, 2007 Sears will arrange installation by qualified contractors. Installation of window fashions & carpeting is extra. Offers do not apply to previously signed contracts. Not valid in conjunction with any other discount or promotion. Not available in all markets. Sears HomeCentral®just call: When you use your Sears Card or Sears®MasterCard®on all installed home improvements, you can choose... 1-800-590-8676 Products and Services from the Company You Trust®. Call now, toll free, for a no-obligation in-home custom estimate. Call or visit your Sears Retail store. 0%financingfor 2 years or Collect Points* 40%off Custom drapes, cornices, swags, valances and bedcoverings From the ‘Boutique’ Collection. 279-3 99 sq. ft. Our best-selling carpet at the lowest prices of the year! STAINMASTER® ‘Imperial Series’ carpet • 60 colours • 7-year limited stain warranty and 10-year limited wear warranty; details in store Sears reg. 3.99-6.99 sq. ft. STAINMASTER®is a registered trademark of INVISTA 25 %off HunterDouglas custom 2" Everwood®& 21⁄2" Everwood X-tra blinds Everwood blinds are designed to offer resistance to heat, humidity and sun exposure. 50%off Custom sheers From the ‘Boutique’ Collection. FEATURING OUR LOWEST PRICES OF THE YEAR LOWEST PRICES OFTHE YEAR LOWEST PRICES OFTHE YEAR LOWEST PRICES OFTHE YEAR LOWEST PRICES OFTHE YEAR PICKERING TOWN CENTRE 905-420-8000 NO DIPLOMA? NO PROBLEM! 120 Centre St. S., Oshawa COMPLETE YOUR GRADE 12 OR BE READY FOR A NEW JOB IN JUST 7 WEEKS CLASSES BEGIN TUESDAY JANUARY 8 REGISTER N O W ! ADULT DAY SCHOOL You’re c l o s e r t h a n y o u t h i n k ! You’re closer than you think ! Come to the free orientation session at the E.A. Lovell Centre 120 Centre St. S., Oshawa TUESDAY DECEMBER 11 AT 11:00 AM Please bring previous transcripts, proof of Canadian Citizenship and photo identifi cation. No appointment necessary. TO REGISTER EARN UP TO 3 CREDITS IN JUST 7 WEEKS • BUILDING MAINTENANCE -2 credits • HOSPITALITY SERVICES -2 credits • OFFICE ASSISTANT -4 credits REAL TRAINING FOR REAL JOBS • ART • BIOLOGY • COMPUTERS • COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY • COOPERATIVE EDUCATION • DESIGNING YOUR FUTURE • ENGLISH • FOOD AND NUTRITION • HISTORY • MATHEMATICS • MEDIA STUDIES • PARENTING • PHYSICAL EDUCATION WHY DURHAM CONTINUING EDUCATION? • Our Guidance Department will develop a plan that works for you! • We’re here to help our adult learners achieve their goals. • We provide a supportive environment and experienced teachers. • We provide class options that fi t your life. • Our courses have no tuition fees. Registration and certifi cation fees may apply. • Ask about our cooperative education program. COMING SOON! SHERWIN- WILLIAMS Sobeys 401 E HWY 2 Westney Rd. NorthWestney Rd. NorthRogers Video Shoppers Drug Mart 2 401 OPENING SOON! AJAX Westney Heights Plaza #15 Westney Rd. North, Unit B Store Hours: Mon-Tues: 7am-5pm Wed-Fri: 7am-6pm Sat: 8am-5pm Sun: 11am-4pm Your AJAX Sherwin-Williams Paint Store has all of the top quality paints,stains,wallcoverings and supplies you’ll need to complete your project! Ask Sherwin-Williams.® Visit us at sherwin-williams.com. For more information please call 905-507-0166 DURHAM CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD Catholic Education: Learning & Living in Faith AUDITED FINANCIALSTATEMENTS In accordance with Section 252 (2) of the Education Act, the financial statements and Auditors' Report of the Durham Catholic District School Board for the year ended August 31, 2007 are available on line at www.dcdsb.on.ca Included are the: •Statement of Financial Position •Statement of Financial Activities •Summary of Significant Accounting Policies •Notes to the Financial Statements •Auditors' Report •Management Report For a printed copy, please telephone toll free 1-877-482-0722 or 905-576-6707, ext.2244 YOUR CASINO TOUR SPECIALISTS! VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE AT www.funbuscanada.com As Always, Please Call For More Details. 8 MIDTOWN DR., OSHAWA 905-576-1357 O/B Fun Time Travel Co. Ltd. TICO 50008767 FALLSVIEW CASINO RESORT IN NIAGARA FALLS EVERY FRIDAY & SUNDAY $10 PER PERSON FRIDAY RECEIVE $10 VOUCHER PER PERSON SUNDAY RECEIVE A BUFFET COUPON Departures from Oshawa, Whitby, Pickering & Bowmanville *All persons must be 19 years of age or older with valid Government issued photo I.D. to board coach. Know your limit and play within. PAGE A4 ◆ N EWS A DVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007A/P DURHAM — Start the holiday sea- son off by visiting WindReach Farm for carolling, treats, wagon rides, craft making, and petting farm animals. See how Christmas is celebrated on WindReach Farm on Sunday, Dec. 16, from 1 to 4 p.m. A donation of $10 per car is request- ed. The farm is wheelchair accessible. WindReach farm is located at 3122 Townline Rd. (near Ashburn in Scugog Township). For more information call 905-655- 5827 or visit www.windreach.org. Get away from the busy city and enjoy the season at WindReach Farm Land purchased to fix leaky landfill in Brock DURHAM — The number of drink- ing and driving charges continues to rise as Durham police take to the region’s roads for their annual Festive RIDE campaign. In the second week of the effort 15 more people were charged with drunk driving, after 14 similar charges were laid in the first week. Officers stopped 2,300 vehicles in their second week and administered 138 roadside breath tests; in addition to the drunk driv- ing charges, cops issued 36 temporary licence suspensions to motorists who registered a warning on breath screen- ing devices. A number of other charges, in- cluding drug possession, new driv- ers breaching alcohol restrictions and various Highway Traffic Act infractions were also laid. The RIDE program will continue through the holiday season into the new year. RIDE cops nab 15 more drunk drivers Just one more way to get your news thanks to the NEWS A DVERTISER newsdurhamregion.com Postcards, video greetings, and a banner being sent By Ian Caldwell icaldwell@durhamregion.com DURHAM — Durham Region residents can send a holiday greeting to Canadian soldiers this Christmas with a down- loadable postcard now avail- able online. Video greetings are also being recorded on Friday at the Oshawa Centre and a 15-foot banner will also be there that can be signed. “It think it’s great”, said Os- hawa Fire Services Captain Joe Meringer after recording a video greeting this week at Fire Hall No. 1 on Adelaide Avenue West. “They’re over there fighting for us and it’s the least we can do to send them a message,” he said. Oshawa Fire Chief Steve Me- ringer said the work that sol- diers are doing is “very much appreciated by all of us and this is just our little way of saying thank you.” The video greeting from the Oshawa firefighters will be one of many being recorded this week for soldiers serving in Af- ghanistan and overseas. The public are invited to come to the Oshawa Centre, centre court, on Friday Dec. 7 between 2 and 8 p.m. where Metroland videographer Ste- fanie Swinson will be videotap- ing 30 to 45 second greetings. Postcards will also be available for signing, and the office of Oshawa MP Colin Carrie will be collecting signatures on a 15- foot long banner at centre court. The greeting postcard can be downloaded at www. newsdurhamregion.com. You can print it at home and drop it off at centre court be- tween 2 and 8 p.m. as well. All the greetings will be sent to soldiers just in time for the holidays. Mr. Carrie said that the banner and the greetings will “make a big difference.” “I think it’s important that they (the soldiers) know that we’re thinking about them,” said Mr. Carrie, who was raised in a military family. The Oshawa MP pointed out that the soldiers all volunteers and fighting for things that Ca- nadians take for granted like equal rights, and safety and se- curity. Tis the season for some, but not all. At this time of year people from every walk of life engage in honouring their own traditions and while not everyone celebrates Christmas, most are involved in some kind of holiday gift giving. Herizon House,a shelter for abused women and children in Ajax, honours all traditions and has the opportunity throughout the year to participate in many wonderful and diverse celebrations. During the holiday season we receive many of the donations that we use not only for the holidays but save for other occasions throughout the year. If you are thinking of making a donation this year to a charity, please think of Herizon House. Our funding does not include items beyond shelter, food and local transportation but other needs must be met. This year,we have many teens in the shelter and donations of teen items are desperately needed. Donations of gifts for their mothers are welcomed and of course for our little clients too. Making a food donation allows us to ensure that the woman and children involved in our Outreach Program can enjoy the holiday season without worrying about going hungry. Monetary donations or gift certifi cates allow us to purchase what families need the most. All donations are gratefully received and acknowledged. Please give some thought to those who will have little to celebrate this year and call 905-426-1064 ext. 2223 if you wish to arrange to make a donation. Celebrating all holidays at Herizon House 24 Hour Crisis Line Giving Doesn’t Have a Season Bodhi Day Chanukah Birth of the BAB 1-866-HER-IZON 1-866-437-4066 ,4$ 5PCOMING 3PECIAL %VENTS %XPECTING A "ABY 3UNDAY -ARCH 0ICKERING 2ECREATION #OMPLEX 6ALLEYFARM 2D 0ICKERING $OORS OPEN AT PM 2EGISTER WWWHAVINGABABYCA 0LANNING A 7EDDING 3UNDAY &EBRUARY #ARRUTHERS #REEK 'OLF #LUB ,AKERIDGE 2D !JAX $OORS OPEN AT PM 2EGISTER WWWBRIDALSHOWCASECA WWWWELCOMEWAGONCA Old Ajax Plaza next to Home Hardware 905.683.0407 ALLALL Jewellery & Watches on sale 150th Anniversary The Aqua Dots Activity Kits pictured on pages 1 and 4 in our December 1, 2007 Saturday ad will not be available due to a safety recall. Please contact Spin Master’s customer service department at (800) 622-8339 for additional information. No rain checks will be issued for these kits. We apologize for the inconvenience. ATTENTION - MICHAELS CUSTOMERS Dickson 220 Harwood Ave. S. Ajax PRINTING LTD. 683-7940 Joe Dickson Words of Wisdom “I never did too well in school. My teacher was always saying, “Look, stupid” - and I did.” If you like our quotes, you’ll love our printing. Give your vehicle a Christmas present this year! Keep your vehicle looking like new all year with the Fine Detailsʼ complete cleaning Passport. Just in time for the holidays! Dirty Car? $14.99 4!8 1SPVE4Q POTPS #OME Shine WITH US #OME Shine WITH US The News Advertiser has acquired terrifi c deals from leading local merchants offering discounts at between 10 and 20 times the original value. We package them in a unique format we call the Passport to Savings. A limited number of Passports are produced for one merchant every three weeks. Passports are available while supply lasts. See terms and conditions online at www.passporttosavings.ca Other great passports available at: www.passporttosavings.ca 4 Free Hand Car Washes or 3 Free Hand Van, Truck, SUV Washes (Value: 4 x $15 = $60) Buy 1 Get 1 Free Wash and Vac Supreme (Value: $55) 50% off the ʻCompleteʼ Rust Cure™ package (18 months of protection) (Value: $65) 50% off Gem Coat Paint Protection (Value: $60) 50% off High Speed Polishing (Value: $150) Buy 1 Get 1 Free Fabric Protection (Value: $60) Buy 1 Get 1 Free Leather Treatment (Value: $60) FINE DETAILS passport offers: 1. ONLINE: www.passporttosavings.ca 2. CALL: 905-426-4676 ext 222 3. IN PERSON: 130 Commercial Ave., Ajax All offers expire on November 30, 2008 3 EASY WAYS TO BUY $14 99 ONLY Over $500 in savings from the WESTNEY ROAD, AJAX plus GST PAGE A5 ◆ N EWS ADVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007 A/P Jason Liebregts/ News Advertiser photo Stephanie Swinson of Durham Region Media Group gets comments from Fire Chief Steve Meringer at the Oshawa Fire Hall about being involved in sending Christmas greetings to troops overseas. Send our soldiers a holiday greeting Go online to download a greeting postcard. You can also find a copy on page B10 of today’s newspaper newsdurhamregion.com Ron Pietroniro/ News Advertiser photo A diverse future PICKERING — Devan Francis listens to Connor White’s story about diversity during the Frenchman’s Bay Public School’s Authors Circle, In Your Words. Students from Grades 4 through 8 were divided into groups and then shared their stories and poems about diversity in the year 2025. Covering the Pickering news scene kcalis@durhamregion.comREPORTER KRISTEN CALISNEWS ADVERTISER 905-683-5110 P esky e-mails keep telling me to do something about my problem O ver the last month, I have been receiving an inordinate number of spam e-mails encouraging me to have my penis enlarged. I think those last few words bear repeating, “my penis en- larged.” Not my feet or my chest or my personal sphere of friends enlarged. My penis. I’m not sure what is consid- ered the “ordinary” amount for receiving notices of this nature, but as far as I am concerned one is too many. Now I am getting at least that many and sometimes more, a day. It’s un- nerving. I wouldn’t feel so badly if I were being inundated with daily supplications to save the rainforest or lose weight or even help a Nigerian diplomat recover his millions. Those are simply annoyances. But this? Down there? That? This is a very delicate area for men. Try as we might to rise above such illogical stereotypes, most of us have a lot of tenuous self- image invested in Mr. Johnson. And I don’t care who you are or what your sexual prowess might be, if you tell a person he is a fish enough times, sooner or later he will begin to grow gills. If one is not emotionally and mentally grounded, one may find oneself looking into mirrors a little too often and... wondering. I thank God a bad knee has kept me out of the hockey dress- ing room these last months. That might prove disastrous. Of course the real question on my mind is “Why me?” Why am I suddenly being targeted? And why now? The “From” section on the e-mails gives no clue. They are all addressed from some maddeningly colle- gial chum like Matt or Vic or Steve; some male friend who undoubtedly knows my pain. None of them, so far, has been from a female, but I’m not rul- ing that out. I imagine they save the feminine ridicule as the coup de grace. The final nail in the ego coffin. I’m at a complete loss. The equipment, as far as I can tell, has done yeoman ser- vice up to this point in my life, so why, out of the blue, am I on the list? Well, therein lies the real problem doesn’t it? The Pan- dora’s box no man wants to open. These things never really happen out of the blue. Some- one has told these penis en- largement people something. Someone has complained. Needless to say, I’ve been surreptitiously going through my wife’s mail. Keeping an eye out for dubious return ad- dresses like “Satisfaction Inc.” or “The Pleasure Institute” or anything from Doctors Feel- good, Wang or Long. But so far, nothing. And she seems just as attentive, happy and loving as she ever was. In fact she’s given me no reason whatsoever to suspect any de- gree of dissatisfaction in that area. Still, as I say, real or imag- ined, this is the mother of all hot button issues for a man. It’s our Plains of Abraham, our Canada-Russia series, our Vimy Ridge. If we fail there, all is lost. No man wants to walk around with a Dieppe in his trousers. And so, I find myself doing stupid things like making sure the heat is turned up when I step out of the shower in the morning. I have taken to wearing boxer shorts hoping to enlist the aid of gravity in my plight. My only saving grace with these sham- ing e-mails is that I have yet to do the unthinkable... I’ve not responded. Durham resident Neil Crone, actor-comic-writer, saves some of his best lines for his column. He can be seen on the CBC hit sitcom, Little Mosque on the Prairie. Follow Neil’s BLOG drinfo.ca/croneblog.html 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 mjohnston@durhamregion.com. EDITORIALS & OPINIONS infodurhamregion.com LETTERS TO THE EDITOR [ Proud Members Of ]-- ONTARIO PRESS COUNCIL NEWS ADVERTISER Metroland Durham Region Media Group Tim Whittaker Publisher twhittaker@durhamregion.com Joanne Burghardt Editor-in-Chief jburghardt@durhamregion.com Mike Johnston Managing Editor mjohnston@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 mjohnston@durhamregion.com Web address durhamregion.com Mailing Address 130 Commercial Ave., Ajax, Ont. 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[ Letters Policy ]-- We welcome 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 complaints, 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: mjohnston@ durhamregion. com. The newspaper contacts only those whose submissions have been chosen for publication. What’s wrong with my equipment? Neil Crone enter laughing EDITORIAL CLICK AND SAY IN THE COMMUNITY Council shouldn’t have been kept in dark by staff Eleventh hour too late to hear about site problems, blown budget Regional councillors should have heard much earlier that Durham’s material recovery facility (MRF) is well over bud- get and that building it presented serious challenges that drove up the price. Two weeks before its slated opening, councillors learned at a recent meeting that the MRF, located on Garrard Road in Whitby, is almost $900,000 over budget. They also heard that the site on which it is built has a high water table and was filled with organic material, not exactly ideal for building on. Several councillors were angry, and rightly so, at hearing this so late in the day. Perhaps that’s why they didn’t approve the extra funds required to finish the job. Instead, the issue comes back before the works committee later this month. Commissioner of works Cliff Curtis’s explanation of why he didn’t report to council earlier, that he first wanted to know the full extent of the problem and the solution, isn’t what the Region’s ratepayers want to hear. Instead, as soon as the problems were discovered, Mr. Curtis or another works staff member, should have reported to council and presented them with options. But, rather than doing so, staff took it upon themselves to approve screening and remediating the soil and making changes to the drainage system and stormwater design. Now, in all likelihood, council would have approved the mea- sures staff initiated. But, it was the council’s decision to make, not staff’s. In this context, it’s ludicrous to hear Mr. Curtis remark he is “still quite happy with the price,” and for works department direc- tor Susan Siopsis to state the measures staff took “saved us money and saved us significant time.” We didn’t see any councillors patting them on the back for a job well done, and taxpayers certainly have a right to be angry. We elect council to make decisions, and staff’s job is to provide it with as much as information as is available so they are informed decisions. Obviously it didn’t occur in this case. Council needs to find out why this happened to ensure this kind of communication breakdown doesn’t happen again. This Week’s Question: Given our recent blast of winter weather, how have you found snow removal in Durham Region? Good Average Poor Cast your vote online at infodurhamregion.com Last Week’s Question: Will the presence of RIDE patrols in Durham affect your driving behaviour over the holiday season? Total votes: 182 Yes: 56 % No: 44 % School board not a bully, says reader To the editor: Re: ‘Proceed with caution if you have beef’, Jeff Mitchell column, Nov. 18. I find it preposterous that Jeff Mitchell would call the Durham District School Board a bully! Yes, the board is seeking $100,000 in damages to en- sure that others like Paul Mac- Gregor do not slander a good name. Why is it that Mr. Mac- Gregor gets to run a website slandering the principal at his son’s school, defaming her character, that of the school, and the school board? High school students in Toronto were punished for defam- ing their teachers’ names on Facebook earlier in the year. Why would a parent be al- lowed to do the same thing without punishment? As well, the Durham Dis- trict School Board is support- ing one of its employees. I would expect nothing less. As an employee, would you not expect the same backing? As a parent of a student at Brooklin Village P.S., I am pleased with the programs being run there. Mr. MacGregor neglected to mention the great reading teams, sports teams, choirs and clubs being offered at the school with Mrs. Reed actively involved. It makes me wonder what Mr. MacGregor did that Mrs. Reed felt the need for a re- straining order against him. I, for one, am glad that Mrs. Reed sees the education and safety of her students and staff as a priority over non-educa- tional issues. Who really is the bully here -- DDSB or Mr. MacGregor? Crystalyn Tessier Whitby Dealing with 407 complaints a real time-waster To the editor: Would you like to travel the 407 ETR and save time? Well, you may save time while travelling, but do not expect to save time when your bill comes in. If you have an issue with your bill, expect to stay on the line with a repre- sentative for a minimum of 20 minutes. I have actually been on the phone for up to 1 hour and 15 minutes. When trying to get the cred- it back for any excess charges, be aware they have to be pro- cessed by a different depart- ment to which you, as a cus- tomer, are not allowed to talk directly to. An e-mail has to be sent by the rep you are speaking with to the other department. Watch to ensure this credit shows up on your invoice as it takes two to three months for you to maybe see it. Watch for non-transponder charges, even if you have a transponder and it is placed in the correct location in your car. Now, after you have spent your time on the phone with a rep, you may even come to find out that all that time was a total waste as the credits were not even processed. Nicole Warner Brooklin submitted photo It’s the season of giving The Sunday School students at Pickering Village United Church in Ajax led the effort to donate Operation Christmas Child boxes to children in need in other parts of the world. A total of 110 boxes were donated. To see more photos from residents across Durham and to submit your own, visit citizenseye.com, the Metroland Durham Region Media Group’s citizen submission website. The page is dedicated to the submissions and photos of readers from around Durham. /4& PAGE A6 ◆ N EWS ADVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007A/P WINTER 2007/2008905.420.2222 cityofpickering.com 24 Hour Access 905.420.4660 ATTEND PUBLIC MEETINGS AT CITY HALL All meetings are open to the public. For meeting details call 905.420.2222 or visit our website. Friday, Dec. 7 @ 7:30 pm Free Family Event Tree Lighting & Fireworks @ City Hall cityofpickering.com/greatevents Ready, Set, REGISTER for winter leisure programs & aquatics Click to Reg at cityofpickering.com DATE MEETING TIME Dec. 5 Committee of Adjustment 7:00 pm Dec. 6 Advisory Committee on Race Relations & Equity 7:00 pm Dec. 10 Executive Committee 7:30 pm Dec. 17 Council Meeting 7:30 pm ARE YOU A FULL-TIME STUDENT LOOKING FOR A MARCH BREAK OR SUMMER JOB? Get a head start on your job search. The City of Pickering is currently recruiting for seasonal positions. Opportunities include the following: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CAMPS (March Break & Summer) Camp Counsellors (Full-time & Back Up) Camp Counsellor, Special Needs Assistant Camp Director Camp Director Coordinator, Special Needs & Volunteers* * (summer only) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MUSEUM (Summer Only) Museum Guide / Receptionist Camp Counsellors (Full-time & Back Up) Camp Director Coordinator, Museum Summer Tours -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PARKS (Summer Only) Student Labourer Please visit cityofpickering.com for information on required qualifications, mandatory training dates, and details on how to apply. Applications are due Friday, January 11, 2008 by 4:00 pm. Community Cultural & Heritage Associations You are Invited to Participate in the... 2008 Heritage Day Celebration Saturday, February 16, 2008 starting at 11:00 am at Pickering Town Centre (Centre Court) presented by the Pickering Advisory Committee on Race Relations & Equity Cultural & Heritage Associations can participate in the event by providing cultural performances (dance or music) and / or by providing a display that showcases their heritage. For more information or to confirm your interest to participate, please call Marisa Carpino at 905.420.4660 ext. 2099 by January 9, 2008. Please be sure to visit our website at cityofpickering.com to view 2007 event photos. Please join us as we celebrate Pickering’s rich heritage and cultural diversity! cityofpickering.com/greatevents Celebrate !Celebrate ! Pickering Nuclear Canadian Progress Club Durham Region Women Christmas Craft Club (Ages 5-12) Saturday, December 8th or 15th Pickering Recreation Complex 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm New crafts each week! Click to Reg today at cityofpickering.com For details call 905.420.4621 Christmas in the Village Sunday, December 9th Pickering Museum Village Noon to 3:30 pm Fee required call 905.683.8401 P.A. Day Heritage Camp (Ages 5-12) Friday, December 7th Pickering Museum Village 9:00 am - 3:15 pm Extend-a-camp available Click to Reg today at cityofpickering.com For details call 905.420.4621 OPG Movies & Crafts Friday, December 7th 10:00 am to 12:00 pm & 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm OPG Pickering Nuclear Information Centre Register online at opg.com/community or call 905.837.7272 Gingerbread Time (Ages 3-7) Saturday, December 8th Petticoat Creek Library 10:30 am Pickering Central Library 2:00 pm Make a Joyful Noise Music Nights by Veridian Tuesday, December 11th & Thursday, December 13th Council Chambers, City Hall 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm Mayor’s Light Tour (Adults 55+) Wednesday, December 12th See the website for bus information or call 905.420.6588 OPG Lunch & Movie (Adults 55+) Friday, December 14th 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm OPG Pickering Nuclear Information Centre Registration required call 905.837.7272 Family Storytime (Ages 2-6) Saturday, December 15th 10:00 am Pickering Central Library & Petticoat Creek Library Tim Horton’s Free Skate Thursday, December 27th & Friday, December 28th Wednesday, January 2nd through Friday, January 4th Pickering Recreation Complex 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm New Year’s Eve Family Countdown Monday, December 31st Pickering Recreation Complex 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm Free Family Skate & Swim, Free Activities & Entertainment, Face Painters, Balloon Twisters, Crafts, New Year’s Countdown & More! Mayor’s New Year’s Day Levee Tuesday, January 1st Pickering City Hall 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm Join Mayor Ryan & Members of Council to bring in the New Year! Enjoy Entertainment & Refreshments for the whole family, Balloon Twistology’s high energy show, the Town Crier & More! Plus, enter to win great prizes! Indoor & Outdoor Entertainment featuring Splash n’ Boots, plus a visit from Santa! Enjoy a Wagon Ride, Decorate a Santa Hat, Meet Frosty, Enjoy the Pickering Community Concert Band, Holiday Fireworks & Tree Lighting! CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTINGCHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTINGCHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING Esplanade park, Behind City Hall 7:30 pm Friday, December 7th Maps will be available after the event online and at Pickering facilities for residents to enjoy the tour at their leisure. Mayor’s Light Tour is an annual event that showcases Pickering homes with exceptional holiday decorations. Seniors will meet at one of twelve pick up locations throughout Pickering to get on the bus tour. Call 905.420.6588 or visit our website for pick up locations and times. The tour concludes at the Pickering Recreation Complex with a reception featuring the Brian Rose Little Big Band and refreshments. After the reception, participants will be returned by bus to their original pick up location. Be sure to attend this great holiday event and see Pickering’s most sparkling homes! supported by cityofpickering.com/greatevents Wednesday, December 12, 2007 Adu lts 55 + Your input is important. Public and stakeholder consultation opportunities will start January 2008. City staff have prepared a Draft Pesticide Use By-law. Public and stakeholder involvement is important. Details about opportunities to provide input will be promoted and start in January 2008. Call 905.420.4660 ext. 5221 for more information. The Draft Pesticide Use By-law can be viewed at cityofpickering.com. DRAFT PESTICIDE USE BY-LAW EVENINGS Wed. Dec. 5, 12 & 19 • 6 pm - 8 pm $77.00 for 3 Private Lessons DAYTIME Tues. & Thurs. Dec. 6, 11 & 13 9 am - 11 am & 1 pm - 3 pm $103.00 for 4 Private Lessons or $62.00 for 4 Semi-Private Lessons Choose your ½ hour time during the times listed above. Classes run on the ½ hour and the hour. All Red Cross and Adult levels available. Register in person, by fax or drop-off for these programs. Call 905.420.4621 for details PICKERING RECREATION COMPLEX in!in!Learn to Swim! Snow Safety Tips & Etiquette • be a good neighbour. Lend a hand to those who may not be physically able to shovel or who may find walking to the store or bus stop too treacherous because of the snow or ice • keep your children safe - don’t let them play in the snow piles or on the snow banks at the side of the road • when clearing snow, pile it on your property - it should not be shovelled onto the sidewalk or street • place your garbage containers and blue box on a cleared area - do not perch them on the top of snow piles • help prevent street flooding and icing by clearing snow away from storm sewer catchbasins. When the weather turns warmer and snow begins to melt it’s important that the runoff water gets into the storm sewer. If the catch basin is fully or partially covered by a build-up of snow and ice street flooding can occur. Should the thermometer dip again the street can become an ice rink A few things you can do to help yourself: • sometimes it takes several passes with the plow to completely clear the street. Wait until plowing is completed, and you will only have to shovel your driveway once • when you shovel your driveway, place the snow on the “downstream” (right side) so your driveway won’t be filled in the next time the plow comes by Things you can do to help the City crews: • observe snow by-laws • don’t park overnight on any City street • don’t park your vehicle at the end of your driveway in a way that would impede the City plow • avoid unnecessary spinning of tires at intersections. This practice is dangerous and is hazardous to other motorists. It also tends to “ice up” the intersections • avoid installing mail boxes where they can be damaged by plowing operations. Canada Post can provide guidelines concerning the proper distances mail boxes should be placed from road surfaces “DRIVE CAREFULLY” The Municipal Property & Engineering Division, Operation Centre attempts to minimize the impact of snow and ice. However, it is each motorist’s responsibility to drive according to the road conditions. If it is slippery, slow down For Maintenance of City of Pickering Roads, Trees, Parks & Trails, please call our Operations Centre at 905.420.4660 ext. 5294 Municipal OperationsMunicipal Operations Help us keep your streets safe this winter PAGE A7 ◆ N EWS ADVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007 P FINCH AVE HWY #2 HWY #401VALLEYFARM RDLIVERPOOL RDBROCK RDAUCTION! AUCTION! AUCTION! YEAR END LIQUIDATION AUCTION Sunday December 9, 2007 Pickering Recreation Complex 1867 Valley Farm Road Pickering, Ontario Preview: 12 Noon Auction: 1 pm This will be the BEST AUCTION youíve ever se e n . Come out & h a v e s o m e f u n NAME BRAND TV’S WE HAVE A HUGE SELECTION OF: PUBLIC AUCTION MOVERS ON SITE YOU DON’T WANT T O M I S S T H I S O N E D A Y E V E N T !!! CASH FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 1-888-211-7690 10% BUYERS PREMIUM • 3 Piece Sofa Sets and Sectionals in many designer colours, Italian Leathers to Designer Fabrics • Oak, Mahogany and Cherrywood 9 Piece Dining Room Suites, some with matching Buffets and Hutches • 8 Piece Bedroom Suites, including European Designs • Hand Carved Fern Stands • Huge selection of Classical Style Hall Mirrors • Bathroom vanities with Sink • Quality Mattress and Box Spring Sets in double, queen or king, from the highest quality Memory Foam and Pillow Top to Economical Sets • Top quality 72 pc. Flatware Sets • 10 pc. counter height dinette set (variety of fi nishes) • Bombay Chest • Wall Clocks • Curio Stands • Electronics • Lamps • Limited Edition Artworks including Bateman & The Group of Seven • Figural Pieces • Grandfather Clocks • 4 Poster Bed Sets • Stainless Cookware Sets • Sports Memorabilia • Bronze And Still Much More! Subject to additions and deletions. PAGE A8 ◆ N EWS A DVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007A/P AJ Groen/ News Advertiser photo Can cars be fitted with skates? AJAX — The intersection of Church Street and Rossland Road turned to ice as the temperature fell below the freezing point Monday. Even the Town of Ajax salter had trouble making it through. Close to 30 accidents were reported in Durham Region in the wake of the overnight sweep of freezing rain on top of a weekend snowfall. No serious injuries were reported. DURHAM — Enjoy a day of fun that will challenge and inspire your mind, body and spirit. Girls Day Out is a Girls Inc. event that allows women to try new activi- ties or join in on some old favourites. Girls Day Out is on Feb. 2 from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. The cost is $100 per person and groups of five or more are $90 per person. There are limited places for the classes so get your reg- istration form today. Go to www.girlsinc-durham. org or call Maureen Pryce at 905-428-8111. By Erin Hatfield ehatfield@durhamregion.com DURHAM — An upcom- ing waste fair isn’t just about landfills and incin- eration, says Cliff Curtis. “It’s to let people know we do things other than build incinerators and run landfills,” says the Region’s commissioner of works. “We also do diversion and good things.” Mr. Curtis encourages the public to come out and learn more about Re- gional waste programs at the waste information open house. He said staff and con- sultants will be on hand with displays, to provide information and answer questions on programs such as recycling, compost- ing, household hazardous waste, as well as the pro- posed remediation and fu- ture operation of the Brock Township Landfill and the proposed incinerator. “They will have vendors and displays up there, so it will be all things waste and recycling,” Mr. Curtis said. “I assume there will be a lot of people that are interested in what is going on and we try to be as open as possible.” The waste fair is at the Cannington Community Centre at 91 Elliot St. in Cannington on Dec. 11 from 3 to 7 p.m. All things waste at open house Treat yourself to a girls day out New study compares mortality rates at 85 Canadian hospitals DURHAM — When it comes to mor- tality rates, Rouge Valley Health Sys- tem is above the national average ac- cording to a study by the Canadian In- stitute for Health Information (CIHI), released Thursday. However, Lakeridge Health is below the average. The study compared mortality rates for 85 large Canadian acute care hos- pitals and 42 health regions in every province except Quebec, where they don’t collect the same data. The CIHI study compares the actual number of deaths in each hospital with the average Canadian experience. The numerical result is called the hospital standardized mortality ratio (HSMR). A score above 100 means a hospital is above the national average while a score below that figure reflects a lower mortality rate. Rouge Valley had a score of 106, with the Centenary site scoring 109. David Brazeau, the manager of pub- lic affairs and community relations for Rouge Valley, noted there weren’t numbers included for the Ajax site of Rouge Valley. “There wasn’t enough volume for them to measure,” Mr. Brazeau said. Lakeridge Health Oshawa scored a 96, while Lakeridge Health Corpora- tion, which includes all three sites in Oshawa, Bowmanville and Port Perry, scored a 93. “As long as anyone is dying it’s not perfect, but in comparison to other hospitals we’re doing quite well,” said Dr. Mark Taylor, vice president of med- ical affairs for Lakeridge Health. For years, Canadian hospital admin- istrators have known what death rates were inside their hospitals, but unlike the United States and the United King- dom, they were never made public. The provincial government has mandated that beginning April 1, all Ontario hospitals must report adverse events and death rates for certain pro- cedures on their websites along with wait time information. “What’s very useful about the data, is it allows us to look at every death very carefully and see what we can learn from it and how we can lower that number for the next year,” Dr. Tay- lor said. Mr. Brazeau stated, “We’re in the mix, what I call the middle of the pack. It’s not good enough as far as we’re concerned. “We’re putting a series of measures in place that will improve the health care for our patients,” he stated. “We’re zeroing in on strategies for improve- ment.” Among the strategies are risk assess- ment, a rapid response team, medica- tion safety and inter-disciplinary team work and communication, “that in- cludes all our health care profession- als.” To measure the performance, there will be a “quality audit tool and our own review process,” Mr. Brazeau noted. Speaking about the numbers, “There will be an improvement,” he added. “Our bottom line is to put safety and quality health care” at the top. “We welcome the report for us as a hospital system. “It gives us another data point” to measure improvements,” Mr. Brazeau said. “Regardless of how the hospital is improving, we always look for ways to improve.” Between 9,250 and 23,750 Canadian adults experience a “preventable” ad- verse event in hospital and later die, according to a 2004 CIHI study. Over the past three years -- the period cov- ered by the new data -- more than 254,000 patients died in Canadian hos- pitals outside Quebec. Releasing these numbers across Canada is a big step forward, said Hil- ary Short, president of the Ontario Hospital Association, representing all hospitals in the province. “It’s hard the first time you release a report like this,” she said. “But once you start reporting publicly it really accelerates ... and it forces improvement.” -- Torstar News Service 2 0 mi nu tes to OSH AWA TOR ONTO FAI R ALL S T.WESTNEY R D. S .Ajax 14 PC. DUVET COVER SET 100% Cotton; 250 Thread Count Choose from 3 Patterns; Italian Design Toronto Maple Leafs & Montreal Canadiens $29 99 SHEET SETS 1000 THREAD COUNT 100% Pima Cotton Single-Ply Yarn Fits Mattress up to 18” deep Avail in Ecru & Sage $139 99 $24999 King $149.99 HOLIDAY TABLECLOTHS Durham’s Largest Selection of Tablecloths Including Large Sizes! 12 PC. CERAMIC SNOWMAN SETS Choose from 4 Designs. Set includes 4 plates, 4 mugs & 4 spoons Where your decor dreams come true. Mon-Wed 10 am - 6 pm, Thurs-Fri 10 am - 9 pm, Sat. 10 am - 6 pm, Sun. 11 am - 5 pm W ESTNEY R D .AJAX (SOUTH OF HWY.401)458 Fairall Street www.surefit.ca Set Includes: 1 Duvet Cover 2 Shams 1 Bedskirt 1 Fitted Sheet 1 Flat Sheet 2 Pillow Cases 2 Neckroll Covers 2 Euro Sham Covers 2 Cushion Covers (17” X 17”) Buy One, Get One FREEea Queen Queen CHAIR BOWS Available in Gold, Silver, Merlot, Green, White, Chocolate, Pink & Blue $12 99 $7.99 ea. CHRISTMAS WREATHS HOME SALE HOLIDAY BUY DIRECT FROM THE FACTORY AND SAVE! T.Phat Superm rket T. Phat Supermarket (905) 231-0154 1630 Kingston Rd. Pickering (formerly Knob Hill Farms) Offering a wide variety of foods from many ethnic groups. Hours of Operation: Mon.-Wed. 9:30am-8:30pm Thurs.-Sat. 9:30am-9:00pm Sun. 9:30am-7:00pm Fresh Seafood Fresh Meat Tropical Food NOW OPEN!NOW OPEN!NOW OPEN!NOW OPEN! Everything in the store has been extended until Sunday, Dec 9/07 OFFOFF10%1010%% • Frozen Tilapia (cleaned & gutted) ................$6.99 9 lb box • Chicken Legs (back attached) .............. .69¢lb 18 kg case $24.59 (after 10% discount) • Oxtail......................................................$2.49 lb •Mutton Shoulder................................ $1.29 lb •Grace Tropical Rhythms Juice Drink .........67¢ 473 ml Several flavours available •Instant honeyed ginger drink 20/pkg.....$1.96 • Case of 12 (355 ml cans) ...........................$2.88 Coke / Diet Coke / Sprite / Barq’s / Canada Dry • 2 Litre Bottles .............................................88¢ Coke / Diet Coke / Sprite / Barq’s / Canada Dry Also many unadvertised specials throughout the store PAGE A9 ◆ N EWS ADVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007 A/P AJ Groen/ News Advertiser photo Aidan and his friends hanging out PICKERING — Aidan Malesich, in front, of Pickering turned six recently, before the snow fell, and collected more than 100 food items to donate to the St. Paul’s on-the-Hill Community Food Bank at his first “just friends” birthday party. His mother, Maria Gallo, was touched by an article in the News Advertiser on the food shortage in Ajax and Pickering, and when she suggested Aidan collect food instead of traditional birthday presents, he “agreed wholeheartedly.” Death rates at Rouge Valley health above national average To find out the methodology behind the study check out the story online newsdurhamregion.com PAGE A10 ◆ N EWS ADVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007A/P 250 Westney Rd. S. phone: 905-428-8888 www.acuraeast.comwww.pickeringhonda.com Whites Rd. & 401Whites Rd. & 401 Tel:Tel:905905 831-5400 831-5400 PICKERINGPICKERING 08 ACCORD IS HERE! The Holiday Season is a time to cherish with Friends and Family. Please DON’T Drink and Drive! ADVERTISING FEATURE Please Drink Responsibly Wishing you and yours a safe holiday season. PLEASE plan ahead and arrive home safely after any celebration. www.madd-durham.com • 905-576-7473 Durham Region Chapter Please Drive Sober! 375 Bayly Street West, Ajax Tel: 905.686.0555 Fax: 905.686.1126 Toll Free: 1.800.565.6365 AjaxAjax 2006 Award Winner Best Import Automotive Dealer 1675 Bayly Street Pickering T: 905.421.9191 www.bessadakia.com info@bessadakia.comTotalKIA Coverage BESSADA OF AJAX AND PICKERING KIA MOTORS The Power to Surprise™ “The Fastest Growing Auto Maker in the World” BESSADA The Power to DeliverThe Power to Deliver Your Neighbourhood Kia Dealer Bus: 905.683.6561 Fax: 905.683.8705 BRUCE BISSELL BUICK PONTIAC LTD. SALES • LEASING • SERVICE 301 Bayly St. W., Ajax, Ontario L1S 6M2 www.bissellbuick.com COME VISIT THE NEW LOCATION! Merry Christmas and a Safe Holiday from all the staff at Bruce Bissell Buick Pontiac Ltd. CHEVROLET LTD. 425 Bayly St., W. Ajax, Ontario 905.427.2500 PLEASE DON’T DRINK AND DRIVEPLEASE DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE 20082008 IMPALAIMPALA PONTIAC • BUICK GMC COMMERCIAL TRUCK CENTRE www.boyerpontiac.com PICKERING 715 Kingston Rd. (401 & Whites Rd. Exit) Pickering, Ont. L1V 1A9 Michael Boyer Pontiac Buick GMC (1988) Ltd. Ajax, Pickering: 905-831-2693 Toronto & surrounding areas: 416-798-7989 Oshawa, Whitby: 905-686-5859 Please be responsible. Don’t Drink and Drive EVER! Richard S. Price, EPC Senior Financial Advisor Director, Private Client Group 905-427-7000 http://rprice.dundeewealth.com Since 1984 Si nc e 1984Since 19 84 905-433-2005 or 1-800-439-0339 Professional Designated Driving Service We get you and your vehicle home safely. FB;7I;:EDÊJ:H?DA7D::H?L; KEYS TO US LTD.KEYS TO US LTD. www.keystous.com 105 BAYLY ST. AJAX 905-686-1440 BETWEEN HARWOOD & MONARCH Your City ... Your Taxi 24 hr. Computerized Dispatch24 hr. Computerized Dispatch Anywhere / AnytimeAnywhere / Anytime 905-831-2345905-831-234554 Taxis in Pickering 13 Taxis in Ajax DurhamDurham Rapid TaxiRapid Taxi All vehicles to be equipped with GPS tracking soon 2007 Diamond SATURN SAAB of PICKERING 980 Kingston Rd. Pickering Tel: 905.839.6159 Toll Free: 800.327.5618 www.sheridanchev.comwww.sheridanchev.com 1800 Kingston. Rd., Pickering Tel: 905-683-9333 Fax: 905-683-9378 Sheridan Chevrolet is supporting the Durham Regional Police Food and Toy Drive! Drop off your Food and Toy donations, you will make someone’s Christmas Special! #ONSTITUENCY /FFICE #URRENTLY ,OCATED AT +INGSTON 2OAD 3UITE 0ICKERING /NTARIO ,6 # 4 4& & % WAYNE ARTHURSCA 7AYNE !RTHURS -00 0ICKERING 3CARBOROUGH %AST h(AVE A 3AFE AND (APPY (OLIDAY 0LEASE $ONT $RINK AND $RIVEv “Personal Service Makes A Difference” Serving Durham Since 1985 905-427-3595 www.Jones-DooleyInsure.com INSURANCE BROKERS JONES - DOOLEY PARTY ON! FOR BIG SAVINGS - TAKE A TAXI COMPARE TO THE EMOTIONAL & MONETARY CONSEQUENCES! endent Insurance Broker CoversYou Best ™ An Independent Insurance Broker Covers You Best The holidays are usually a time of JOY, FAMILY TOGETHERNESS, GIFT GIVING and THANKFULNEES, and yet many families in Durham Region fi nd that their holiday traditions are no longer. A loved one may have died or been seriously injured in an alcohol related crash and their families are left to face the season that brings about the strongest emotions of grief, loneliness and anger. The volunteers of the Durham Chapter encourage you to drive sober over this holiday season, be responsible plan ahead for safe RIDE home. 4 Canadians die and approx 190 are seriously injured every day, may your holidays bring you a time of JOY, FAMILY TOGETHERNESS, GIFT GIVING, and THANKFULNESS. Please don’t leave a gift of only memories for Durham families, DRIVE SAFE DRIVE SOBER. Seasons Greetings A Holiday message from MADD Durham Region… The men and women of the Durham Regional Police Service want all our residents to have a safe and enjoyable time during the upcoming 2007 Christmas holiday season. We all know that with the Christmas holiday season, the time for people to meet, greet and, perhaps, drink at family and offi ce parties is fast approaching. But did you also know that, in the past, some people have chosen to get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle after they have had a few too many drinks with tragic consequences? Between 1998 and 2005 drunk drivers in motor vehicle crashes in the Durham Region killed 49 people. This compares to only 36 people who died as a result of a homicide in Durham Region during this same time period. As a result, the Durham Regional Police will be out there on R.I.D.E. enforcement, once again, throughout the holiday season “Choose Your Ride”…During this Season’s Festive R.I.D.E. The Durham Regional Police are committed to providing quality service in partnership with our community. This column is made possible through the support of a network of individuals and organizations that share a common goal, creating a safer environment to live, work and play in. Help us obtain that goal, think safety fi rst! looking for impaired drivers. In addition, Durham Regional Police Service are also asking its citizens this Festive R.I.D.E. season to “Choose Your Ride!” when leaving a holiday celebration after having a few too many drinks: “Will you leave by ambulance?” “Will you be stopped by the police?” “Can you afford to have your car towed away?” “Will this be the last time that your loved ones will ever see you alive?” The better option, of course, is to make the right decision and “Choose Your Ride” by calling a taxi or a friend or loved one to take you home safely after a night of celebration. On behalf of all the members of the Durham Regional Police Service, we are asking that everyone please drink responsibly, and make the right decision this holiday season. Open house set for next week By Keith Gilligan kgilligan@durhamregion.com AJAX — Closing an entrance onto Old Kingston Road is one of 23 recom- mendations in a draft study on how to improve Pickering Village. Other recommendations in the study include improving pedestrian and cycling links, creating an arts and cultural hub in the area around Me- morial Park, putting in a traffic median on Kingston Road near Hewison Court in an attempt to slow down traffic, and establishing a Heritage Conservation District for properties along Old Kings- ton Road. Tom Goodeve, a senior policy plan- ner for the Town of Ajax, said the final report should be before council in March. An open house is being held on Tuesday, Dec. 11 in the Village Com- munity Centre, at the corner of Sher- wood Road West and Linton Avenue, starting at 6:45 p.m. Mr. Goodeve noted there’s a “de- sire as development goes forward that the strong character (of the Village) is maintained.” He said the intersection of Old Kingston Road at Kingston Road, near the McEachnie Funeral Home, could be closed and an urban square cre- ated. Motorists travelling westbound could get onto Old Kingston Road at Linton Avenue, he added. Wards 1 and 2 Regional Councillor Scott Crawford questioned how clos- ing the intersection would affect busi- nesses. “To keep retail viable is to keep that intersection open,” Coun. Crawford stated. “I find this detrimental to go down to Linton and back track.” A task force would be set up to en- sure the “various initiatives don’t lie on the shelf. This is a living, breathing document,” stated Mr. Goodeve. “This is a community document we don’t want languishing.” The area around Memorial Park includes the Village Arena, a library branch, the Village Community Centre and the Pickering and Village Seniors’ Centre. The Town is currently doing a recreation master study, looking at the use of the buildings near the park. “The Village is seen as the arts and culture hub of the community,” Mr. Goodeve said. Wards 3 and 4 Regional Councillor Colleen Jordan supported the idea of a task force. “The potential is there, we just need to do the work to get to the vision we have in mind,” she said. Study looks at ways to improve Pickering Village SPORTS sportsdurhamregion.com ANNANDALEANNANDALE CHURCH ST. at BAYLY, AJAX 905-683-3210 www.toronto.com/annandale Offi ce Christmas PARTY!! CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION Why not try Curling... $10 per person from FULLY LICENSED Attack drops two in weekend hockey action Ajax faces off against Pickering tonight at Pickering Recreation Complex AJAX — Just days after trading away two of its top players to the Toronto Junior Canadians, the Ajax Attack fell to the very same team. On Saturday, the Attack were knocked off 4-1 by Toronto. Two days earlier, Ajax had shipped Paul Chiasson and Chris Gelencser to the Junior Canadians. In fact, it was an all-around lost weekend for the Attack as they were doubled up 6-3 on Sunday by the St. Michael’s Buzzers in OHA Ontario Pro- vincial Junior ‘A’ Hockey League ac- tion. Chiasson and Gelencser didn’t fig- ure into the scoring, as the Junior Ca- nadians netted three third period goals for the win. The game was played at the Ajax Community Centre. Ben Skinner scored the lone Ajax marker in a game that saw the Attack outshot 32-24. On Sunday, also at the ACC, the Attack couldn’t slow down the high- powered Buzzers’ offence. Adam Place, Matt Reid and Nick Holmberg each netted single markers for Ajax. St. Michael’s outshot Ajax 30-26 and scored two power-play goals and one shorthanded marker. The losses leave the Attack with a 9-19-1 record, good for 19 points and a tie for seventh with the Durham Fury in the South Conference standings. Ajax faces the Pickering Panthers tonight, Dec. 5, at 7:30 p.m. at the Pickering Recreation Complex. The Attack are also on the road this weekend, travelling to play Dixie in Toronto on Dec. 8 and North York on Dec. 9. Jason Liebregts/ News Advertiser photo The Ajax Attack’s Adam Place chases the puck with Toronto Junior Canadians’ Chris Gelencser, a former teammate recently traded, close behind in OHA Ontario Provincial Ju- nior hockey action at Ajax Community Centre. AJ Groen/ News Advertiser photo Pickering Panthers’ defenceman Scott Brown stops a Markham Waxer before he gets to Panthers’ goalie Brennan Poderzay. The Pickering Panthers were defeated 8-6 by the visiting Markham Waxers. Panthers offence snake bit against Vipers, out-gunned by Waxers Pickering outscored 13-6 in Friday, Monday games DURHAM — The winter weather may have been responsible for causing the Pickering Panthers’ of- fence to miss Monday’s game against the Vaughan Vipers. Vaughan skated to a 5-0 shutout in an offensive display that saw the Vipers pepper Panther goalie Terrence Reid with 57 shots. Reid faced 21 in the first period alone. The game was played in Vaughan. On home ice on Friday, Nov. 30 against the Markham Waxers, the Panthers again surrendered more than 50 shots in losing 8-6. The Waxers built up a 4-1 first period lead, but the Panthers battled back, narrowing the gap to one goal before an empty-netter sealed the decision. Kevin Hudes’ name was all over the scoresheet, as he scored twice and assisted on three others. Greg Riggs also potted a pair of goals. Luca Penzo chipped in a goal and an assist, and Greg Payne scored once. The Panthers sit in ninth and last place in the OHA Ontario Provincial Junior ‘A’ Hockey League South Conference standings with an 8-19-1 record, good for 17 points. Pickering plays host to the Ajax Attack tonight, Dec. 5, at the Pickering Recreation Complex. Game time is 7:30 p.m. On Friday, the Panthers face the Waxers in Markham. More than a place to party and sleep By Shawn Cayley scayley@durhamregion.com DURHAM — The Residence and Conference Centre at Durham Col- lege and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology is more than a party spot or a place to call home for students. The multi-purpose facility has helped the City of Oshawa and Dur- ham Region in hosting several high- quality, and largely attended events such as the annual Lacrosse Festival at Whitby’s Iroquois Park and Team Canada’s ringette, basketball and wheelchair basketball programs. Matt Markovic, a former student at Durham College who now serves as the Sales Manager at RCC, wants the region to know they are open for business, all year round. “From September to the end of the school year we are full with the stu- dents, but in those off months, we’ve got groups coming in and out of here all the time,” he says. “Some people only think students can stay in here, but that’s not the case. From May to August the build- ing is empty and can house almost anything.” Markovic points to the bantam and peewee lacrosse festival as being a perfect example of how accommo- dating the residence buildings can be for groups or organizations. “We offer pretty much the same services as the hotel, minus obviously the pool,” he says. “And those teams, from all over the country, come in here, a lot of fami- lies get to stay together and it’s not all that far from where the games are played.” Columbus Blue Jackets head coach Ken Hitchcock called the building his home while in town for Keith Primeau’s Durham Hockey Institute Camp over the summer. And once students head home next spring, the Ontario Hockey League will invade the surroundings, and the Campus Ice Centre, for one of three OHL development camps prior to the annual Priority Selection. There has also been rumblings that the NBA’s Toronto Raptors may host a training camp within the confines in the near future. PAGE B1 ◆ N EWS ADVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007 A/P PAGE B2 ◆ N EWS A DVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007A/P Entertainment in brief DECEMBER 5, 2007 New music association in the works DURHAM — Singers, musicians, and songwriters are joining forces. After talking to his counterparts, Ajax music promoter and country singer Rob MacArthur decided that Ontario needs a country music asso- ciation. “Actually, Ontario needs a music association in general,” states MacAr- thur, “but that would be much too big a project. Besides, country is where my heart is.” There is already a facebook group, website, ontariocountrymusicassocia- tion.ca, and more than a dozen mem- bers, and it’s only been in the works for four weeks. MacArthur plans to create working relationships with other music associa- tions in different countries around the world. The association’s goal is to pro- mote the performers, songwriters, and musicians, and to get more of them involved. For more information call Ma- cArthur at 905-424-0155, or e-mail at ocma@rogers.com. See Darth, play family games DURHAM — Worlds Collide cel- ebrates 25 years of business with a special day on Dec. 8. On hand will be Darth Vader and the Storm Troopers of the 501st Le- gion, officially sanctioned by Lucas Films. Bring a camera and a donation for Simcoe Hall Settlement House food bank and get your picture taken with Darth and the boys from noon to 4 p.m. There will also be a chance to try out new family games until 5 p.m. at the games store, 86 Simcoe St. N. The stores are located at 80 and 86 Simcoe St. N. Amberlea Presbyterian Church gets in the holiday spirit PICKERING — Amberlea Presby- terian Church is celebrating Christmas with a concert. Everyone is invited to mark the joyous season with traditional hymns and contemporary Christmas songs. There is a free will offering and re- freshments are served following the concert. The concert is on Sunday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m. at Amberlea Presbyterian Church, 1820 Whites Rd. (north of Hwy. 401). For more information, call the church office at 905-839-1383. Santa joins Melgum Road for holiday concert DURHAM — Melgum Road is back with its third annual Christmas concert and craft show. Santa Is Back In Town will take place Dec. 9, with special guests sto- ryteller Graham Ducker, students from the Whitby School of Music and Santa, of course. The concert, which will also feature Melgum Road, will take place at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $15. There will also be a craft show with 10 vendors. Admission to the craft show is free. The fun will be held in the Whitby Centennial Building, with proceeds going to Durham-Whitby Community Care. Tickets are available at Whitby School of Music, Whitby Press Cafe, Lafontaine and Whitby Community Care. Brass band welcomes holiday season with concert DURHAM — Whitby Brass Band is back for its annual Christmas concert. The big event will be held Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. at Hebron Christian Re- form Church, Anderson Street, north of Taunton Road. Special guests are the O’Neill Chamber Choir, from O’Neill Collegiate in Oshawa. Before the concert, music will be provided by the Whitby Brass Junior Band. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and students, with children under 12 admitted free when accom- panied by adults. Tickets are available at the door (open at 6:30 p.m.) or by calling Phil at 905-430-8392. Oldies and goodies as County Town Singers visit Christmas through the years Ron Pietroniro/ News Advertiser photo Nequita Russell puts her heart into her performance at the City of Pickering’s Pickering Starz finals competition, held recently at the Petticoat Creek Community Centre. The star- studded affair featured 10 finalists, celebrity judges and an enthusiastic audience. Russell finished fourth. DURHAM — Christmas favourites through the years will be heard at the County Town Singers’ holiday concert. As the group celebrates its 40th an- niversary, it’s taking a trip through the past for the Dec. 13 and 14 concerts, 40 years of Christmas Favourites. The festive tunes will be performed by the Singers, augmented with some choir alumni from the past. Some of the favourites chosen are Sign of the Dove, Sweet Little Jesus Boy and Angels Carol. The concert will be held at Forest Brook Church, 60 Kearney Dr., Ajax, at 8 p.m. both nights. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and students. Tickets are available at the door or in advance by calling Janice at 905-728- 3386 or John at 905-509-4111. During Canada’s Centennial year, a group of Whitby citizens formed The County Town Singers in honour of Canada’s birthday. The group has been singing since, growing to include resi- dents of Ajax, Blackstock, Bowmanville, Brooklin, Caesarea, Courtice, Nestle- ton, Newcastle, Oshawa, Pickering, Port Perry and from beyond Durham’s borders. Over the years, the group has raised more than $300,000 for charitable groups in Canada and abroad. CTS sings at retirement facilities, churches and charity functions. It has performed the national anthem at a Blue Jays game and has travelled throughout Canada and Europe. The group will continue to sing at home and abroad, living up to its motto, Sing for the Love of It. Anyone interested in joining can try out at auditions Jan. 9 and 16 from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at Whitby Seniors’ Activ- ity Centre, 801 Brock St. S., Whitby. For information, call Juliana Paprocki at 905-668-5743. Jason Liebregts/ News Advertiser photo Lori Nevin, front, rehearses with the County Town Singers for the group’s Christmas Concert running Dec. 13 and 14 at Forest Brook Church in Ajax. Durham musician wins award By Christy Chase cchase@durhamregion.com DURHAM — Juan Coronado just keeps piling up the accolades. Just recently, he won the Best World category at the Ontario Independent Music Awards at the Phoenix Concert Hall in Toronto, for his song 8th Floor. He’d also been nominated in best song. “It took me really by surprise,” said the native of Colombia who moved to Whitby several years ago. “It felt really good.” His win took the singer/guitarist/ composer so much by surprise, he al- most missed the presentation. He had just performed at the show and was about to move his equipment to his car when he realized he didn’t have his car keys, he said. He went back to get them and heard his name being called as the winner. “It’s been an amazing year,” Coronado said. “First I was invited back to the Gui- tar Hero competition (held by Guitar Player magazine in the United States).” That was his second invitation to the international competition; he’s the first person ever invited back more than once. And now the indie award. Meanwhile, he’s working in his re- cording studio on his second CD, as yet unnamed. His first, Renewal, combines his first love, rock, with this Latin roots. “I’m going to keep exploring the fu- sion of rock and my Latin roots,” he said. “I’m really happy about the first album and I’m going to keep exploring that on my second one.” While the first CD merged rock with his Colombian style, the second will venture into other Latin styles, including flamenco. You can find out more about Coro- nado and buy his CD at www.juancoro- nado.com. Pickering contest shoots for stars By Jessica Topham Special to the News Advertiser PICKERING — Pickering searched for a star and found her. The City of Pickering held its 5th annual Pickering Starz event recently at the Petticoat Creek Community Centre. Teenagers between the ages of 13 and 19, competed in the event but Kirsten Hawley from Dunbarton High School shone brightest. Hawley came in first place for her vocal performance of ‘Cry me a River’ by Ella Fitzgerald. “I like singing jazz songs the best,” says Hawley. “I think they suit my voice.” Hawley first got into singing around the age of 11 while in her elementary school choir. She is now in Grade 12 and is in all of the choirs at her school. Singing isn’t the only creative thing that Hawley likes to do, as she also plays the guitar and acts. She was in her school’s musical ‘seussical’, play- ing Mayzie Bird. She also writes songs and is the president of the song writ- ing club at her school. “I’ll either go into music or drama,” says Hawley of a possible career in the arts. Jim Morgan from Acrobat Music Inc. Recording Studio, David Chester from Chalet Recording Studio, Rena Gaile a singer/songwriter, Bill Mckee from the Ontario Guild of Criers, Jac- quie McInnes from Ontario Power Generation and Artemis Chartier from the School Alliance of Student Songwriters (S.A.S.S.) were the judg- es for the event, and had to pick five finalists out of ten semi-finalists. The five finalists were: Kishan Chouhan in fifth; Nequita Russell in fourth; Kelly Bain in third; and, Hay- ley Brauer finished second. ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT durhamregion.com Kirsten Hawley Event runs to Dec. 22; features arts and crafts from talented locals DURHAM — If you’re looking for just the right gift for someone this holiday season, check out the Snowflake Sale at the Kent Farn- dale Gallery. Running to Dec. 22, the third an- nual sale offers up one-of-a-kind works of art from local artists and craftspeople. “Everything’s hand-made and most of the artists are local,” said Sarah Gentles, of Scugog Memorial Public Library, where the gallery is located. This winter wonderland of arts and crafts has a wide variety of works by emerging and established artists and craftspeople, some of them known internationally. Featured are Cathy Mark, metal- work/mixed media; John and Kate Hancock, stained glass; Jonathan Van Bilsen, photography/cards; Brenda LeChance, soaps/jewelry; Shirley Heard, oil/acyrlic paint- ings; and Paul Livingston, paint- ings. Also selling pieces are Elizabeth Murphy, handmade organic cloth bags; Faye McAlpine, jewelry; Cyn- thia Couples, pottery; Noreen Cozi- er, baskets; Deborah Colston, drift- wood angels/art dolls; and Steven Woodruff. The latter, a glass artist, was awarded the 2007 Kent Farn- dale bursary. The Snowflake Sale runs during regular gallery/library hours. The library is located at 231 Water St., Port Perry. By John Foote Bee Movie ** Fred Claus * With my wife at the local fash- ion show in which my oldest girl was modeling, Saturday night was one of those magical daddy-daugh- ter nights with my seven-year-old, Ariana, with whom I adore spending time. What can I say? I love my kids, but more importantly I like my kids. They make me laugh, they make me crazy, they make me teary-eyed in the sheer wonderment of their very existence. Ari decided that we should watch ‘Ratatouille’ together and make pop- corn. Good plan. That is exactly what we did and we had the best time. The movie was terrific, one of the year’s very best. After the movie I read her a story and watched as she slipped into slumber to dream the dreams of children. I love being a dad. I have fond memories of my Dad taking us to the movies often, and sharing with us old monster movies on TV. So why then are there not better films made for kids?? Ari and I could have gone to see ‘Bee Movie’ but, having already seen it, I knew she would not like it. It is an average run-of-the-mill animated film with Jerry Seinfeld voicing a little worker bee who con- nects with humans and realizes that we use the honey they work so hard to make. Seinfeld was the weakest link in his TV series but as an actor he knew that and seemed willing to give the best roles and lines to his superb supporting cast. Here we need an actor to voice the bee, and Seinfeld may be a funny man, he may be a great writer and comic, but an actor he most certainly is not. I just kept wishing his charac- ter would buzz off (could not resist). As with his iconic television series, the supporting cast steals what little show there is to steal. As for ‘Fred Claus’, man, where to start? Not only is it one of the worst films of the year, it is among the most insulting films of the year. Rachel Weisz, Kathy Bates and Kevin Spacey are all Academy Award winners, Paul Giamatti and Miranda Richardson have been nominated for Oscars, leaving me to wonder just how they were conned into mak- ing this terrible piece of tripe. Seri- ously folks this is one terrible movie from beginning to end. It seems Santa has a brother, Fred (Vince Vaughn) who, like his brother, is going to live forever. But Fred is also in trouble, need- ing money, so he asks the big guy for a loan and pays him a visit. If you have seen the trailer for this film or the previews on television, you have seen the funny bits of the picture. Fred gets to the North Pole, locks horns with Santa and his par- ents, and then wreaks havoc in the building shop and with the elves. Without knowing what was going to happen, I can safely say this was the most predictable film of the year and easily the most painful movie I have seen this year because watch- ing all that talent crash and burn hurt me. One could tell by the looks on their faces, they were forcing every line out of their mouths, trying to be funny, trying to connect with the audience. The most recent great Christmas movie was ‘The Polar Express’ (2005) which created one of the most magi- cal visions of the North Pole I have ever seen. ‘The Polar Express’ was made with the Christmas spirit firmly in mind, while ‘Fred Claus’ was made with making money in mind... nothing more. Avoid, avoid, avoid. John Foote, director of the Toronto Film School, is a nationally known film historian/critic and a Port Perry resi- dent. Get more reviews at www.footeon- film.com. Contact him at jfoote@IAOD. com PAGE B3 ◆ N EWS A DVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007 A/P HURRY IN, SALE EXTENDED TO JANUARY 2 ND! $600 LEASE OR PUR C H A S E BONUS ◆ 2008 SPORTAGE LX-AWD model shown†MSRP $21,695* 2007 SPECTRA LX model shown†MSRP $15,995**Based on an MSRP of $15,995/$21,695/$19,995 on 2007 Spectra LX MT (ST5417)/2008 Sportage LX MT (SP5518)/2008 Rondo LX (RN7518) with annual purchase financing interest rate of 0.0%/3.9%/3.9%. Bi-weekly offer for 2007 Spectra LX MT (ST5417)/2007 Sportage LX MT (SP5517)/2008 Rondo LX (RN7518) excludes delivery and destinationof $1,350/$1,495/$1,495. **Bi-weekly payment is $85/$136/$126 for 60 months, amortized over an 84-month period with $0/$0/$0 down payment. Estimated remaining principal balance of $4,399/$6,813/$6,280 plus applicable taxes due at end of 60-month period. Licence, registration, insurance, dealer administration fees and taxes are not included.Dealers are free to set individual prices. Prices subject to change without notice. §“No GST on All New 2007 & 2008 Models” applicable on cash purchase, lease or purchase financing on all in-stock models. The GST rebate on lease is not applicable to the end value portion and cannot be used to reduce the vehicle capitalized cost or monthly leasepayment. ±“Don’t Pay For 4 Months” available on approved credit on purchase financing on all new 2008 models and cannot be combined with No GST offer. Maximum monthly term for “0% purchase financing” varies by model. See dealer for details. GST rebate calculated on the following items included on the factory invoice: vehicle purchase price(no higher than MSRP), port accessories, metallic colour price, excise tax, D&D. Purchase financing example: $10,000 at 0.0% purchase financing equals $167 per month for 60 months; cost of borrowing (C.O.B.) is $0 for a total obligation of $10,000. Monthly payment and C.O.B. will vary depending on amount borrowed, the term and down payment/trade.Other lease and finance options available. Prices subject to change without notice. >Highway/city fuel consumption for 2007 Spectra LX MT (ST5417) is 6.6 L/8.9 L per 100km/2008 Sportage LX MT (SP5518) is 7.8 L/10.4 L per 100km/2008 Rondo LX (RN7518) is 7.5 L/11 L per 100km. The actual fuel consumption of these vehicles may vary. ◆Reductionof $600 off total principal amount or amount due on all new 2007 Spectra models. Bi-weekly lease or finance payments have been adjusted for reduction. Certain restrictions may apply. †Some vehicles may include optional equipment and may not be exactly as shown. ‡Green Score for Kia Spectra based on manual transmission specification withinthe Mid-Size segment. Please refer to GreenerCars.org for full details. ††NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) test results. Visit www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ncap for full details. ^Conditions apply to the $500 Grad Rebate program. See dealer for details. ✛Some conditions may apply to the $750 Kia Mobility program. See dealer for details.▼Kia’s “Worry-Free Comprehensive” warranty covers most vehicle components against defects under normal use and maintenance conditions. Price, availability and specifications are subject to changes without notice. Information in this advertisement is believed to be accurate at the time of print. KIA is a trademark of Kia Motors Corporation. EX model shown†MSRP $19,995* • 5-YEAR/100,000 KM WORRY-FREE COMPREHENSIVE WARRANTY▼ • 5-YEAR/100,000 KM POWERTRAIN WARRANTY • 5-YEAR/100,000 KM EXTRA CARE ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE • NO DEDUCTIBLE CHARGE We’ve got you covered. 3.9 % FINANCE APR* PURCHASE FOR $126 ** BI-WEEKLY FOR 60 MOS. AMORTIZED OVER 84 MOS. REMAINING PRINCIPAL OF $6,280 DUE AT END OF TERM $0 DOWN PAYMENT Visit kia.ca to see our full lineup of Kia vehicles. ✛ 5-STAR CRASH TEST RATING†† 5-STAR CRASH TEST RATING†† HWY:6.6 L/100 KM CITY:8.9 L/100 KM> One of the Greenest Vehicles in its class‡ -GreenerCars.org HWY:7.5 L/100 KM CITY:11 L/100 KM> 0% FINANCE APR* PURCHASE FOR FOR 60 MOS. AMORTIZED OVER 84 MOS. REMAINING PRINCIPAL OF $4,399 DUE AT END OF TERM $0 DOWN PAYMENT $85** BI-WEEKLY 2008 RONDO 0% PLUS on New 2007 Models§ OR on New 2008 Models with purchase financing!± PURCHASE FINANCING on All New 2007& 2008 Models § 3.9 % FINANCE APR* PURCHASE FOR FOR 60 MOS. AMORTIZED OVER 84 MOS. REMAINING PRINCIPAL OF $6,813 DUE AT END OF TERM $0 DOWN PAYMENT $136 ** BI-WEEKLY HWY:7.8 L/100 KM CITY:10.4 L/100 KM> CANADA’S URBAN UTILITY VEHICLE •AVAILABLE 7-SEAT CAPACITY Bessada Kia 1698 Bayly St., Pickering, ON (905) 421-9191 WAREHOUSE SALE UP TO 80%OFF FROM NOV 15 TO DEC 24, 2007 NEW SHIPMENT COMING EVERY DAY 3816 VICTORIA PARK AVE. MON-SAT 9:30 am - 7:00 pm SUN 12 noon - 5:00 pm 416-850-4888 Steeles Ave. E Gordon Baker Rd.HWY. 404Finch Ave.Victoria Park Ave.HERONGATE DINNER THEATRE 2885 Altona Rd., Pickering www.herongate.com GREAT FOOD! GREAT SHOWS! GREAT PRICE! NOW PLAYING (905)-472-3085CALL: HIT COM E D Y! “No Sex Please,“No Sex Please, We’re British”We’re British” BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS & NEW YEARS PARTY WITH US! The PERFECT Gift! Gift Certifi cates Available W eak kids’ movies destined to become holiday trash Gifts galore at annual Snowflake Sale //4% John Foote THE CONVENIENCE I WANT www.chartwellreit.ca 1801 Valley Farm Rd. Pickering, ON Call 905-420-3369 THE RETIREMENT OPTION OF CHOICE We have the staff and the services to make everything easier and more enjoyable. It’s better here…great meals and activities, housekeeping services and personal assistance when it’s required. We’ve thought about everything, so you don’t have to. “Some days the house was too much to handle. Now I have the help and support to make life a joy, not a chore.” Limited suites availableReserve yoursuite today! JOIN US FOR COMPLIMENTARY LIVE ENTERTAINMENT EVERY THURSDAY EVENING! Doors open at 7:00pm & music starts at 7:30pm Tours available,refreshments and door prizes. Everyone welcome! 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 fl yers, call DUNCAN FLETCHER at 683-5110. Carrier of The Week Ajax and Pickering Locations Ajax 10 Cinemas 248 Kingston Rd. East Cherise Today’s carrier of the week is Cherise. Cherise enjoys music & drawing. Cherise has received a dinner, pizza and movie voucher compliments of McDonald’s, Boston Pizza & Cineplex Odeon. Congratulations Cherise for being our Carrier of the Week. * Delivered to selected households only WHOOO has FLYERS in Today’s Wednesday December 5, 2007 * Big Mouth Ajax * Bioped Ajax/Pick. * Black’s Ajax/Pick. * Bouclair Ajax/Pick. * Cloveridge Uniser Ajax * Henry’s Camera Ajax/Pick. * Hockey Experts Pick. * Home Depot Ajax/Pick. * Home Hardware Ajax * JYSK Ajax * Marks Work Wearhouse Ajax/Pick. * Masterbedroom Pick. * Millwork Building Supplies Ajax/Pick. * National Sports Ajax/Pick. * Party Packagers Ajax/Pick. * PC Financial Ajax/Pick. * Personal Edge Pick. * Real Estate Ajax/Pick. * Rona Lansing Ajax/Pick. * Sideroads Ajax/Pick. * Sport Chek Ajax/Pick. * Sport Mart Ajax/Pick. * Staples Business Depot Ajax/Pick. * Wheels Ajax/Pick. If you did not receive your News Advertiser/fl yers OR you are interested in a paper route call Circulation at 905-683-5117. Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9 - 7:00 Sat. 9 - 4:00, Sun. 10 - 1 Your Carrier will be around to collect an optional delivery charge of $6.00 every three weeks. PAGE B4 X N EWS A DVERTISERX December 5, 2007P Teacher patrols outfield for Canada’s softball team Olympics is music to Bradley’s ears By Brad Kelly bkelly@durhamregion.com OTTAWA — Alison Bradley is just as comfort- able in front of a classroom sharing her knowl- edge and passion for music as she is standing at the plate facing the best softball pitchers in the world. The classroom part, which included extend- ed time teaching at schools within the Durham Board, will have to take a back seat for now. The other part, the softball, is the central focus in her life right now as she prepares to represent Canada in women’s softball at the 2008 Olym- pic Games in Beijing. The 28-year-old spent the majority of her time in the area teaching in the music and performing arts program at O’Neill Collegiate, with other stops including Sinclair Secondary School in Whitby and a variety of elementary schools in the Durham Region. When she re- turns to the area, she is recognized by former students. “If I’m in the mall in Oshawa, I run into some of the students and we always chat, especially the kids from O’Neill because I did a lot of ex- tended contracts there,” said Bradley during a Media Summit held in Ottawa recently where athletes and media gathered as a prelude to next year’s Olympics. An outfielder, Bradley has been with the na- tional program for seven years, and was a mem- ber of the Canadian team that placed fifth at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece. But it was the fact she earned her Bachelor of Music and Education at the University of Western Ontario, and can play three to four instruments, that earned her time in the classroom. The fact she was an Olympian wasn’t part of her day to day teachings. “We didn’t really talk about it that much, but they were aware that I was in the Olympics and softball,” she said, adding that students would often inquire about an Olympic ring she wore. She didn’t mind sharing the aspects of her personal life with students. “My personal life, it doesn’t matter to me. If they want to know I will tell them what they need to know. It just wasn’t something that came up,” she recalled. “I didn’t want to walk in and say, ‘Hi. I am an Olympian and I’m your teacher today.’ I just really wanted to focus on the curriculum and get them through what they needed to be learning for the day and use that as a focus. It’s really easy for kids to get you off track and then you don’t get anything done on the day because they want to talk about other things.” With the 2004 ex- perience serving as her introduc- tion to everything the Olympics has to offer, Bradley is much more grounded about the second visit. “I think you go in with more experience and a little more heads up of what you need to do to prepare yourself,” she said. “I’m going in a lot more prepared this time mentally.” ‘I didn’t want to walk in and say, ‘Hi. I am an Olympian and I’m your teacher today’. I just really wanted to focus on the curriculum and get them through what they needed to be learning for the day and use that as a focus.’ ALISON BRADLEY Ron Pietroniro/ News Advertiser photo Alison Bradley, a former teacher in Durham Region, is a member of the Canadian softball team going to the Olympics in Beijing. AJ Groen/ News Advertiser photo In a big hurry AJAX — Ajax Ram’s Jamie Avery leaves a fallen Hawk in his wake as he rushes up ice during the first period. The Ajax Rams hosted the Henry Street Hawks in a se- nior boys’ LOSSA hockey game played at the Ajax Community Centre recently. Just one more way to get your news thanks to the PICKERING NEWS A DVERTISER newsdurhamregion.com Keeping an eye on the sports scene arivett@durhamregion.comSPORTS EDITOR AL RIVETT Dunbarton High School Spartans still undefeated in league play Spartans’ senior hockey team edges All Saints 3-2 to push record to 4-0 PICKERING — The Dunbarton High School Spartans kept its perfect record intact, but just barely, in Durham Region senior boys’ hockey action on Thursday afternoon. The undefeated Spartans (4-0) were fresh off a championship victory at the Fenelon Falls High School Tournament. The squad returned to Lake Ontario Second- ary School Athletics (LOSSA) action and eked out a 3-2 win over the All Saints Catholic Sec- ondary School Titans of Whitby (1-4). Andrew Rhodes, Ian Watters and Mike Pur- cell scored for Dunbarton. Jason Armstrong scored both All Saints markers. Homes not for re-rental By Kristen Calis kcalis@durhamregion.com PICKERING — The recent policy of not re-rent- ing recently vacated homes on the Pickering airport lands is an under-handed way of depopulating the land for an airport, says Ajax-Pickering MP Mark Holland. He says the latest documents he obtained from Transport Canada (TC) under the Access to Infor- mation Act show the temporary policy of not re-rent- ing houses has now become permanent under the Conservative government. He found this through e-mails within TC’s communications department, where one in February instructed officials to say, “It is not Transport Canada’s present practice to re-lease houses once they have been vacated.” “Many of these houses are perfectly good, and become vacant for reasons unrelated to their condi- tion,” Mr. Holland said in a press release. “Transport Canada refuses to re-rent them, they board them up, and vandals and the elements then make them so they can’t be re-rented. This is an incredible waste of good houses.” In an e-mail, TC regional communications advi- sor Tina Bouchard said TC hasn’t re-rented residen- tial properties “for a number of years to avoid major costs associated with the re-rentals given the age of many of the structures on the Pickering Lands. “Transport Canada must manage public funds considering the broad Canadian public interest, and must do so in a responsible manner making prudent economic choices,” she said. But Mr. Holland believes TC and the Conserva- tives have made up their minds that they want an airport in Pickering and, by depopulating communi- ties, they’ll get rid of opposition by residents. “We regularly receive updates from Canada Post that show fewer and fewer households in Brougham,” he said. Ms. Bouchard said there has been no decision on the airport, which is the reason transport minister Lawrence Cannon has proceeded with the department’s need assessment study. The study is currently examining long-term needs re- garding aviation in the Greater Golden Horseshoe, she explained. Besides the role and capacity of air- ports, it is also considering ground transportation access and future air traffic demand. “The govern- ment is engaging in prudent long-term planning by protecting the Pickering Lands to ensure that a safe and viable airport remains an option for local inter- ests,” she said. But since the contract for the needs assessment study was given to the Greater Toronto Airports Authority, which would run the airport in Pickering, Mr. Holland believes it will obviously recommend an airport be built, since it’s an “interested party.” Once the study is complete, Ms. Bouchard ex- plained TC will independently evaluate the findings through a due diligence review. TC will then invite selected members of the public and stakeholders with technical experience to participate in the re- view. Next, the government will decide whether or not to proceed with a federal environmental assess- ment, which will include “full public consultation.” A decision on the airport would be made afterwards. St. Pauls United Church 65 Kings Cresent, Ajax 905-683-4740 www.stpaulsajax.org The Church with the Open Arms All are welcome to attend Wheelchair Accessible-Hearing Assistance Come Celebrate the Christmas Season With Us December 9th 10:30 am - Advent II Worship, 7:00 pm Community Carol Sing December 16th 10:30 am Advent III - Carols and Lessons December 23rd 10:30 am Advent IV - Intergenerational Worship December 24th 7:00 pm - Family Christmas Eve Service & Pageant 11:15 pm - Candlelight Communion Service December 30th 10:30 am - Intergenerational Worship PAGE B5 ◆ N EWS ADVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007 A/P Renting policy will flush out opposition to airport: MP Since 1984 Since 1 9 8 4 Since 1984 Henry DesjardinsHenry Desjardins Automotive Service Inc.Automotive Service Inc. 377 MacKenzie Ave. Suite #9, Ajax 905-683-9040 Blue Flame Muffler CentreBlue Flame Muffl er Centre Repairs to all makesRepairs to all makes Alignments, Tune-ups, Brakes, AirAlignments, Tune-ups, Brakes, Air conditioning, Oil changes, Ignitions, & moreconditioning, Oil changes, Ignitions, & more AllianceAlliance COLLISION LTD. DURHAM’S #1DURHAM’S #1 AUTO COLLISION &AUTO COLLISION & REFINISHING CENTREREFINISHING CENTRE 961 DILLINGHAM RD. PICKERING, 905.420.3501 www.alliance-collision.com • Approved by Major Insurance Companies • Lifetime Warranty • Rental Cars Available • Free Estimates & Shuttle Service muffl er, brake & wheel 1173 Kingston Rd., Pickering • 905-839-5189 www.speedy.com “STILL THE KING OF MUFFLERS” Come in or Call Now for our Manager Specials MINUTE MUFFLER BRAKE& Serving Ajax & Pickering since 1989 Family owned and operated 1600 Bayly St. Pickering, ON. 905-420-1906905-420-1906 REPAIRS & SERVICEREPAIRS & SERVICE AUTOMOTIVE ALL MAKES AND MODELS Your Automotive Service Professionals ADVERTISING FEATURE RAJ’s AUTO CARE Mechanical and Electrical Specialist 3-1600 Bayly St. Pickering 905-250-9928 APPLE Auto Glass™ WINDSHIELDS • SUNROOFS • UPHOLSTERY • CONVERTIBLE TOPS LEATHER INTERIORS • TINTING • ACCESSORIES 1750 Plummer St. Unit #1A, Pickering 905-837-9595 416-889-4290 1 FREE stone chip repair after full windshield repair FREE shuttle service available TONY OHANESSIAN & MAAN ZAKI, Owner Operators SATURN SAAB of PICKERING 980 Kingston Rd. Pickering Tel: 905.839.6159 Toll Free: 800.327.5618 WINTER TIRE PROMOTION Includes tires, steel wheels, valve stems, balance and installation. Mention this Ad to receive Special for the month of December $$649.95649.95 From Saturn Saab Values: • Commitment to Customer Enthusiasm • Commitment to Excel • Teamwork • Trust and Respect for the Individual • Continuous Improvement +tax If you need your car towed in the Pickering-Ajax area, make First Towing your fi rst call. Need heavy equipment moved? Locked out? They can take care of that for you and their fully-trained drivers will get you moving as soon as possible. With over 21 years of service in Durham Region, First Towing is the area’s best choice for everything including light service and fl atbed service, boosts and lockouts and tire changes and has the experience and know-how to meet any situation. “We have 16 tonne, 35 tonne and 40 tonne heavy wreckers to handle even the largest trucks on the road.”No matter what your needs are, First Towing and Storage can take care of you. “One call does it all,” says owner John Walsh. First Towing, located in the heart of Pickering, not only has the largest fl eet east of Toronto with more than 20 drivers, but their dispatch centre is open 24 hours a day to better serve you better and make sure you get where you need to go safely. “The phone is always answered at First Towing,” says John. “We have a live dispatcher in house at our compound available 24-7.” From near to far, First Towing will make sure you always get to where you need to go, and offers both local and long distance towing. “We have a 30-minute service goal on every call, and we always offer the best service available.” For more information, visit their website at www.fi rsttowing.com or call (905) 427-0903. First Towing gets you going 1698 Bayly Street Pickering, ON L1W 1L9 T: 905.421.9191 1675 Bayly St., Pickering Ontario L1W 2Z1 Tel: 905-421-9191 Fax: 905-421-9292 www.bessadakia.com WSPECIALS INTERINTER $$24249595 Oil & Filter Change Special With Free 19-Point Total Care Check-up Cooling System Maintenance Special $$29299595 Brake Inspection Special 2020% OFF% OFF Automatic Transmission Service Kia Tune-up 1515% OFF% OFF Battery Diagnostic Test Special $$54549595 Genuine Kia Parts / Service / AccessoriesTotalKIA Coverage BESSADA OF AJAX AND PICKERING The Power to Deliver $$19199595 We have moved into a new building to service your Kia better! NEW LOCATION!NEW LOCATION! All the Staff at Bessada Kia wish everyone the very best for the Holiday Season and 2008! Call Michael Briggs at 905-683-5110 ext. 238 or email mbriggs@durhamregion.com to advertise. Automated DVD Rental1.99 ALL NewReleases 24/7 SELF SERVEQUIK-FLIX 1980 Rosefi eld Road (Between Brock & Liverpool at Finch) www.mosportinternationalkarting.com 2008 REGISTRATION OPEN HOUSE December 8, 2007 10AM - 5PM The Easiest way to get started in Karting. Everything is provided, just show up and drive. MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL $99.99 Regular Price $149.99 Everyone is welcome Male/Female 8 - 70 yrs. + Arrive and Drive Rookie Series Entrance #2 RESTAURANT GUIDE Restaurant MenusMapsCommunity GuidesWeb Icons Local Business Directory PAGE B6 ◆ N EWS ADVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007P CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE Jason Liebregts/ News Advertiser photos PICKERING — Above, Alyssa Carr and Brooke Masson watch Alannah Brown make gingerbread cookies while taking part in ‘Christmas In The Village’ at the Pickering Museum Village. Below, Paul Savel, centre, and Steven Schlichtmann illustrate the Welsh tradition ‘Mari Lywd’ during Christmas in the Village. The tradition sees village gentlemen going from household to household challenging residents to Christmas carols. Most often the visitors would win and they would be invited in for refreshments. DURHAM — Caregivers of dementia sufferers can gain more insight into the condition at an upcoming workshop hosted by the Al- zheimer Society of Durham Region. The Family Caregiver Workshop will teach practi- cal tips in areas of demen- tia, like communications and coping strategies on Thursday, Dec. 13 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Information about the effect of Alzheimer’s disease on the brain, com- munication and challeng- ing behaviours, getting and understanding diagnosis, community support pro- grams and support services offered by Alzheimer Soci- ety will also be included. The workshop is at the Society’s office in the Os- hawa Centre office tower at 419 King St. W. (Suite 207). Register in advance and there is a $5 material fee. Attendees will receive a re- source package with infor- mation for caregivers. To register, call the Al- zheimer Society of Durham Region at 905-576-2567 or 1-888-301-1106. Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease, dementia at workshop Covering the Durham news scene ehatfield@durhamregion.comREPORTER ERIN HATFIELDdurhamregion.com Just one more way to get your news thanks to your friends at the Metroland Durham Region Media Group Metroland Durham Region Media Group This project is funded by the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment Strategy. Interconnection Research International (Program Sponsor) Want to be your own boss & you have a good idea of a business you want to start? The YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM Will help YOU take the next step! • 52-week, program to plan for, start, and operate your own business • Learn self-employment and business skills from professionals • Lots of opportunity to “learn by doing” • Mentorship and guidance every step of the way • Small group program to help you develop the support and networking with people just like you • Minimum Wage paid throughout program to help support you as you plan and start up your business To qualify, you must be out of school, out of work, under-employed NOT in receipt of Employment Insurance (EI), and between 15 - 30. We’re looking for people who are: • self-motivated and disciplined • willing to work hard for their dreams -- and take calculated risks • have a good business idea they want to develop into a business Contact VPI to Register and book your appointment at 905-571-3811 or Nicole Andrews at 905-985-6593 for more information. Program is scheduled to start soon, so don’t delay, Location: Business Advisory Centre, Oshawa 1077 Boundary Road, Suite 107 Oshawa, Ontario L1J 8P8 South East Corner of Boundary and Wentworth West 1 Kilometre west of General Motors Phone (905) 723-7700 Toll Free: (877) 723-7701 The Only Registered Sales Education College in Canada Become a Sales Professional and start a fun, rewarding career today •Are you laid off: •Are you in receipt of E.I. •Are you looking for a new career? Earn your Professional Sales diploma (NOW ACCEPTING FOR JANUARY ENROLLMENT). Career Opportunities upon graduation from the Professional Sales Diploma Program ATTENTION AUTO WORKERS We are now experiencing tough times in this region with layoffs in the automotive sector. The Sales Institute of Canada recently visited the CAW Action Centre which opened at the Midtown Mall on Thursday, November 22. We were overwhelmed by the volunteer support to provide solutions to the autoworkers experiencing these layoffs. The Sales Institute of Canada feels that it is responsible to provide similar support to our community. We recognize that many are faced with difficult choices and worries in dealing with career transition. We have created programs at The Sales Institute of Cana- da to assist in this transition. Auto workers that are looking for career with similar pay range and training in the filed of Sales can take comfort that The Sales Institute of Canada has put steps in place to assist with the career counseling and application assistance for government funds to obtain the education to be placed with a career in Sales. Auto workers that display a willingness to enjoy a career in sales will be given as- sessment and the opportunity to complete a sales diploma program. The Sales Institute of Canada has available placements upon completion of the program where positions in many sales fields are paying in the range of $40,000 to $65,000. We are looking forward to working with you and assisting you into a career that you can enjoy. The Sales Institute of Canada with be providing assessments and orientations to auto workers on the dates listed below: December 5 - 7 - 10 - 12 - 14 - 17 - 19 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Auto workers not able to make any of the times listed, please contact the Sales Institute of Canada for an appointment that works with your schedule. The Sales Institute of Canada Inc. is a registered private career college under the Private Career College Act, 2005 Call now 416.701.1201 www.medixschool.ca Classes Starting Monthly Intra-Oral Dental Assistant The objective of the Intra-Oral Dental Assisting program is to train students to attain skills and demonstrate competence in essential dental offi ce procedures and laboratory techniques. Discover Medix • PSW • Medical Offi ce Assistant Other Courses Available: • Massage Therapy • Pharmacy Technician • Social Service Worker LEVELS 1 & 2 COBURN'S TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS INC. Positions available for Drivers (AZ & DZ) & Labourers. Experience loading & handling electronic equipment an asset; heavy lifting required. Good wages, benefit program, pension plan, etc., to qualified ap- plicants. Del. resume to: 1901 Forbes St., Whitby. Call 905-432-3509. DZ DRIVER required for local Cartage company out of Pickering. Straight Days. Some lifting. Clean abstract. Call 416-801-0390 $4,000, BY X-MAS,more work than we can handle. Various openings from office/ware- house/customer service. NO TELE MARKETING. Call Tom (905)421-8777. A GREAT OPPORTUNITY.$20 avg/hr. CASH BONUSES PAID DAILY. Registration Work. 905- 435-1052 ORDER TAKERS NEEDED $25/hr avg. Full Time We Train You Call 905.435.0518 A MEANINGFUL CAREER *Get paid for helping families solve financial problems *High earnings potential *Set your own hours, *F/T or P/T Fax resume to Don Zynomirski 1-866-202-9710 Adult Route Operators for home delivery of the Toronto Star in Ajax and Pickering. Earn $800 to $1400/mo. part-time. Call 905-427-6290 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. fax 905-239-3614 or apply online www.metris.ca *SERIOUS INQUIRIES ONLY* ATTENTION!Need a change? Be in business for yourself/not by yourself. At home from your own computer. Flexible hours, great income, free training, after sup- port. www.debsminoffice.com ATTN!20 local people wanted to work from home. Computer and Internet required. $500 - $2500/month, FT/PT. Call Car- men 1-888-880-2843 ext 1. AUTO LUBE TECHNICIANS, full/part time. Hourly wage+bo- nus. Able to perform regular maintenance on vehicles. Penn- zoil, 581 King St. East Oshawa or fax: 905-725-1696 BROOKLIN DAYCARE requires a part-time janitor and a before school assistant. Must enjoy chil- dren aged 3 to 8 years. 10–15 hours per week. Please fax re- sume to 905-655-0657. CLEANERS NEEDED URGENT for fast-growing maid service. Permanent position. Room for advancement. Excellent pay, great working environment. Not suitable for students. Call 905- 723-6242 CRUISE SHIP JOBS Earn $500- $3000/week, All-Expenses-Paid Living. Employment Guaranteed. 613-764-6209 / 613-834-4456 CUSTOMER SERVICE MGR, East Communities for Baywood, a leader in low-rise & high-rise construction. Will have relevant education/training, strong cus- tomer service skills, management experience in residential con- struction and knowledge of TARION. Please send resume to hr_resumes@baywoodhomes.com DELIVERY Driver/Warehouse Valid "G" license and clean driver's abstract required. Re- sponsible for GTA deliveries in company vehicle and general warehouse functions. Must be able to lift up to 50lbs. $11/hr to start. E-mail resume to: gdrohan@hazmasters.com EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ACCOUNT ADMINISTRATOR Whitby Brokerage Firm is seeking an independent/self motivated individual who is able to perform well in a busy environment to join our dynamic employee benefits team. Responsibilities will include: • Administrative Support for Client Accounts • Marketing of Benefit Plans / Analysis / Report Preparation • New Business Facilitation • Liaison with Clientele / Providers Required Skills • Experience in the Employee Benefits Group Insurance Industry or Related Insurance Industry Courses • Sound knowledge of Microsoft Office We offer a competitive compensation package. Please fax your resume to R.Shields at (905) 666-8086 by December 11th. Only those applicants with employee group benefits experience / knowledge will be considered for the above noted position. Pine Valley Packaging Limited of Uxbridge is a leader in the "Engineered to Order" Protective Packaging industry and is currently looking for the following candidates. Quality Assurance Inspector Minimum 3 years related experience. Must have experience working in the automotive or electron- ics industry along with an ISO quality system. Can- didate must have good measurement techniques and able to read blue prints with excellent commu- nication skills. Ability to problem solve, conduct in- ternal audits, and train would be an asset. Receiver Minimum 3 years related experience. Candidate should carry a valid tow motor license, must be able to count and verify all incoming product, be tidy and organized, and work closely with other departments. Must also perform inventory on selected items and cover shipping during vacation periods. Production Lead Hand: Responsible for the supervision of a small group of light assembly production workers. Must have manufacturing experience supervising small pro- duction lines including line setups and line tear downs. Being mechanically inclined with WHMIS, Forklift and First Aid certification would be an as- set. Please forward resumes to: P.Travers, Pine Valley Packaging 1 Parrat Road, Uxbridge, Ontario L9P 1R1 Email: paults@pinevalleypackaging.com Fax: 905-862-0842 ACCOUNTANT REQUIRED FOR AJAX CA office. Prior CA firm experience required. Necessary skills include file preparation, tax return and audit knowledge. Experience with Caseware, QuickBooks and Taxprep would be an asset. Please email resume and salary expectations to: dawn@dflett.ca Albion Hills Industries Ltd. Has an opening for an AZ HIGHWAY DRIVER Requirements •Clean abstract, clean criminal search •Some experience an asset, training provided •Able to cross U.S. border We offer •Busy, organized, satellite dispatch •Home every weekend •Weekly Pay, Direct Deposit •100% Company Paid Group Benefits •Company Paid Group RSP Contact Carol/Bryan (905)665-6752, ext 227 Fax Resume to 905-665-6769 School Bus Drivers required to fill Maternity & Sick Leave Leading to Full Time Uxbridge / Scugog Ajax / Pickering Training provided to suitable applicants 1-800-263-7987 Durham Mental Health Services is seeking a PROGRAM DIRECTOR Under the direction of the Executive Direc- tor, the Program Director oversees the plan- ning, organization, supervision and evalua- tion of the agency's community mental health programs (case management, crisis, and supportive housing). Candidate must have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nurs- ing or Social Work, with a minimum ten years experience in a mental health setting or related field plus seven years of progressive supervisory experience. Proven leadership, team building and motivational skills are required. Please submit resume to: Hiring Committee Durham Mental Health Services 519 Brock Street South, Whitby L1N 4K8 or fax to 905-666-2976 or email ksutherland@dmhs.ca Warehouse Manager – Durham Region Contract to permanent opportunity, 70k plus. Qualifi cations: • Must have SAP experience • Minimum 5 years Managerial experience • Excellent leadership and organization skills Send resumes to: durham@staffplus.org 1614 Dundas St. East, Suite 203, Whitby, ON L1N 8Y8 905.720.0122 We appreciate all expressed interest in this position however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. A leading North American foundation contractor requires a Safety Co-Ordinator CRSP certifi cation required. Fax resume to Deep Foundations Contractors Inc. (905) 881-2564 KAS Personnel is currently recruiting for one of our largest clients in the recycling industry, Metro Municipal. They are currently seeking MILLWRIGHT MECHANICS with tools in Whitby (Taunton & Gerrard) & their Scarborough facility (Morningside/Sheppard) Must have conveyer, hydraulic, electrical and welding experience 44+ hrs/wk including weekends. Negotiable pay. For more Info: Please call 416-269-0033 Layout Fitters & Welders Scarborough Steel Plate Fabricator requires full-time Fitters & Welders. Fitters must be able to read blueprints and layout reference points & patterns.Welders must have experience with structural steel, platework or pressure vessels. Fitters full-time days.Welders full-time nights. Salary based on experience. Email: rmccann@ewinggroup.com. Fax: 416-291-4917 CONSTRUCTION SITE SUPERINTENDENT Must have references & min 10 years exp in multi million dollar institutional & commercial projects, knowledge of drawings & specs & scheduling. Send resume & letter of interest to Fax 905-576- 2582 or email jobposition@garritano-bros.com Village Chrysler is looking for EXPERIENCED SALES REP We offer: •Excellent pay plan 35% plus F&I •Demo or car allowance •Fresh Inventory •Over 150 used cars •Lots of advertising •Lots of spiffs/open floor •Lots of traffic & sales calls •New facility •Potential to earn big $$ Become part of our winning team!! For private and confidential interview call & ask for Nick or Jim @ (905) 683-5358 or email: nick@villagechrysler.ca Our team at COMCARE takes pride in making a positive difference in people's lives and resolving challenges through teamwork, creativity, and professionalism.As one of Canada's prominent providers of community health programs from coast-to-coast, we make a vast difference in every community where we live and work. PSWs • Durham region You will be responsible for the assessment and provision of professional care to clients in their homes. A certified professional, you work well in a multi-disciplinary team and have excellent assessment skills. We invite you to contact us: COMCARE HEALTH SERVICES e-mail: vermal@comcarehealth.ca fax: 416-929-0495 We thank all applicants; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted. Our commitment is to diversity. www.comcarehealth.ca OUR STRENGTH IS QUALITY OUR STRENGTH IS QUALITY X-Ray Technologist,MRT, experienced for part time or evenings at a busy Whitby Clinc Fax resume to: 416-757-4146 DETAIL/CLEAN-UP PERSON required for large auto collision repair shop. Must have valid driv- er's license and take great pride in producing top quality work. 905-420-3501. HOMEWORKERS needed!! To Assemble Products- Mailing/ Processing Circulars, On-Line Computer Work, PC/Clerical Work Available. Up to $1,500/week, No Experience Needed! FREE information at www.Jobs-WorkAtHome.com Reference 2-107 ON CALL SALT TRUCK Driver required for winter work. Must be experienced. Also snow shovel- lers needed. Call 905-985-4979 or fax 905-985-6221. HOUSE CLEANERS NEEDED! Full-time/Part-time available. Training provided. Competitive wages, great environment. Not suitable for students. Vehicle re- quired. Call (905)683-4609. PERFECT MAID SERVICE URGENT! Experienced cleaners needed with cleaning experience evenings, weekends, weekdays for great new opportunities with cleaning service for residential cli- ents. $10 and up per hr +bonus. and gas allowances offered. Seri- ous inquires only. Call 905- 686-5424 now. WORK FROM HOME,Put your PC to work. $1400 PT, $5000 FT monthly. Apply online ONLY www.homesuccessforyou.com KIDS! KIDS! KIDS! --Ages 2+-- Wanted for TV & Movie Jobs! No Fees! Men/ Women 16-65 yrs. Needed for same! No extras Parents call: (416) 221-3829 PERRY HOUSE CHILD CARE SERVICES is now hiring: Assist- ant and supply teachers. Apply to: 129 Perry St. Whitby, L1N 4B7. SUPERINTENDENT COUPLE, condo experience for Pickering location adult lifestyle buildings, handy person with own tools an asset. Salary, apartment and benefits. Call (905)420-0821 TAX PREPARERS ft/pt, North Oshawa. Experienced preparing ADVANCED personal income tax returns. Strong computer skills, detail oriented, pay based on experience. e-mail maria@rochefinancialgroup.com TELEMARKETER - Pickering- based conference company est. 1986 seeks individual with excellent telephone manner for b2b calls. Hourly plus com- mission. Resume to colleen@electricityforum.com WILD & CRAZY Can't be Lazy! $320 - $600 per wk. Must like music & fun. 20 F/t Openings. Start now! No exp. OK. Kelly: 905-668-5544. PAINTER NEEDED.Minimum 5 years experience. Clean driver's abstract. Criminal background check required. Own vehicle. Fax resume to 905-728-3179. QA/ PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER-Food Processor (Pickering) in rapid growth mode seeking a self-motivated team player. Ideal candidate will pos- sess college diploma or university degree in Food Science/Microbi- ology. Proficient in GMP, HACCP procedures. Excellent communi- cation skills (written and verbal), strong computer skills (Microsoft Office). Candidates with proven track record in product develop- ment preferred. Minimum 3 years experience in the food industry. Please fax resumes to (905)839- 7217. SNOW PLOW OPERATOR & Bobcat/Tractor Position Available. Experience Required. Please for- ward your completed resume to: Fax: 1-888-733-1133. WANTED, Wood Shop Helper with experience operating shap- ers, planers, jointers and other related equipment. Custom Cabi- net making experience and asset. Contact Steve@adamsonproaudio.com or fax (905)982-0609. EXPERIENCED TAX preparers wanted for busy tax office, with locations in Ajax, Pickering, Whit- by, and Oshawa. $14/hour plus bonus. Fax: 905-426-5598. FULL TIME BOOKKEEP- ER/PAYROLL & TAX POSI- TIONS AVAILABLE: Small ac- counting firm seeking individual with accounting software, MS Of- fice, and personal tax preparation experience. Also hiring part & full time tax preparers for tax season. Email resume before December 14 to admin@m2solutions.ca inside sales INSIDE SALES Representative Required Immediately for Picker- ing location. Primary respon- sibility generating new clients while maintaining existing ones. Pleasant telephone manner es- sential. Previous Experience an asset but willing to train. Salary dependent on experience. Email resumes with salary expectations markdefreitas@lazertherm.com or fax to (905) 839-6426. sales help & agents FRONT DOOR MEDIA is seeking full & part time sales people needed for local advertising com- pany. Commission to own pkg. (905)725-2581. sales help & agents SALES HELP for Your Good Health, Pickering Town Centre, 30 hours per week. knowledge required, Apply in person. DENTAL ASSISTANT LEVEL II must have at least 3 years experi- ence. 3 days per week. Hours are 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Fax Resumes to (905)831-5975 DENTAL ASSISTANT,full time evening and Saturday hours, Pickering office, new grads wel- come. Call 905-831-6666 ask for Tracey or fax resumes: 905-831- 7094. DENTAL ASSISTANT, LEVEL II/Receptionist. Full-time. Mater- nity leave. Scarborough. Please fax resume to: 416-441-0371. DENTAL RECEPTIONIST/C.D.A. required part-time for Pickering dental office. Must be flexible and willing to work Saturdays, even- ings and days. Please fax resume 905-509-4667. PHARMACY TECHNICIAN,and part time cashier required, for Whitby Pharmacy. Nexxsys expe- rience an assist. E-mail resume to 725132@myadbox.com sales help & agents MEDICAL BILLING PERSON, part time to full time, with medical ER billing experience. May work from home. Please fax resume with billing experience to (905)649-8686. OUR BUSY PRACTICE requires full-time experienced dental re- ceptionist. Includes evenings and Saturdays. Call (905)434-5757. AL DENTE RESTAURANT requires Full-time and Part-time, experienced Wait Staff and Kitch- en Help for fine Italian dining res- taurant. Drop off resume to: 1305 Pickering Pkwy, Pickering. LOCAL BAR LOOKING for ex- perienced manager, and cook. Call Tim at 905-428-8555 or 647- 388-7033. BOWMANVILLE,1 Barlow Ct, OPEN HOUSE, Sat Dec. 8th & Sun. Dec. 9th, 12-3 p.m. 3-bdrm all brick link house, 3-bdrms, 3 bathrooms, 5 appliances, fin. bsmt w/gas fireplace, c/a. 10- ftx10-ft deck, $209,900. (905)697-8460 FORECLOSURE-Whitby Cen- tral. Brick backsplit bungalow semi-detached, 1920 sq.ft. 4- bedrooms,2-baths, Completely- renovated. New windows/new- central air. Gas furnace. Low first mortgage. Asking $239,000. (905)985-9730. Pictures at www.seagravebuildings.com INDUSTRIAL BAYS - Near Oshawa Centre. High roll-up doors, heating, air compressor, utilities incl. Parking, auto repair, machining, hobbies and other uses Month-to-month consid- ered. Outside Sea storage con- tainer available. 905-576-2982 or 905-626-6619. HOME BASED business~ Resi- dential screen repair, Investment 25,000, includes inventory, train- ing, tools, work trailer, territory. Email guymanning@cogeco.ca for more information. JOB AT HOME. $487.68 Weekly. Assemble Products, Mail or Computer Work. Free Details www.TopJobReview.com write CHRJobs: 372 Rideau St, #916-A15, Ottawa ON, K1N 1G7 1-800-351-5120 PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS or service to over 4 million adults in Ontario. Call today to book your classified word ad in over 100 community newspapers! Regional & Weekly packages avail. (In- cludes online). 416-493-1300 ext 237, 288, 276 advertising@metroland.com $$MONEY$$Consolidate Debts Mortgages to 100%. No income, bad credit OK! ONTARIOWIDE FINANCIAL CORPORATION 1-888-307-7799 CENTRAL FUNDING GROUP, first & second mortgages to 100%. From 5.7 % for 5 years. Best available rates. Private funds available. Refinancing debt consolidation a specialty. For fast professional service call (905)666-4986. PRIVATE FUNDS - 1st, 2nd mortgages. Consolidate bills, low rates. No appraisal needed. Bad credit okay. Save money. No obli- gation. No fees OAC. Call Peter (416)460-4594, Mortgage Lead- ers !KING/WILSON, OSHAWA Quiet building, near shopping, transpor- tation. Utilities, parking included. 1-bedroom, available immediate- ly, 2-bedroom apts. Available Dec/Jan & Feb 1st. Call (905)571-4912 until 6:00pm. !MUST SEE TO BELIEVE! Hardwood floors throughout. 1- bedroom apartment, Oshawa, $800/inclusive. Laundry and park- ing included. Available January 1st. Call (416)568-3965. 1 & 2 BDRM APTS,Oshawa North, new carpeting,6-storey quiet building, large balcony, ap- pliances, parking, utilities includ- ed. $775/$880/mo, January 1st. 905-436-9785. 1 BDRM. Wilson/Olive. $675 incl. util. Available Now Seniors/ODSP welcome. One month free, with year lease. Call toll free 1-800-565-2062 Mon-Fri 9-5 1 BEDROOM APT.Large. Bright. Whitby, Rossland/Thickson. No smoking. $750/mth includes all utilities, cable, internet, parking, separate entrance. Call Karen 289-314-6143. 1-BEDROOM BASEMENT apart- ment, separate entrance, patio, storage, 2-car parking, huge walk-in closet. No smoking/pets, Adelaide/Harmony. $800/month, first/last. Available Jan 12th. (905)240-0943 1011 SIMCOE ST.N.,Oshawa - Large 3 bedroom town home suites with full basements, available for rent. Private fenced yards with mature trees. Close to all amenities. $875.00 per month plus utilities. Call (905)579-7649 for an appointment. 2 BEDROOM at 887 Simcoe St. North, Oshawa. All Hardwood floors, clean, nice, bright. Available immediately. $745/mo. plus hydro, first/last. No pets. (905)668-1946 2-BDRM OSHAWA large bright unit in quiet well-managed build- ing, park-like setting. new ceram- ics/refinished floors. 1-1/2 baths eat-in kitchen, living/diningroom $1150.-inclusive. (905)728-8919 or (905)576-8647 2-BEDROOM APT.,North Oshawa 6-plex, Quiet building, very clean, includes fridge, stove, and parking. Laundry facilities on sight. Gas heat, no pets, no smoking. $825+ hydro. Call (905)431-1788 Condominium Suites in Oshawa 2 & 3 Bdrm's Free Utilities, Parking. Senior's, Retiree's & GM Discounts 905-728-4993 LARGE ROOM FOR rent, suitable for two. $600/month in- clusive. Call Dave 905-626-9438. In Association With NEWS ADVERTISER,WEDNESDAY EDITION, December 05, 2007, PAGE B7 A/Pnewsdurhamregion.com PAGE B10 ◆ N EWS ADVERTISER ◆ December 5, 2007P 905.839.0574www.aroundthehome.ca • KITCHENS• KITCHENS • VANITIES• VANITIES 1550 BAYLY ST., #35, PICKERING SpotlightSpotlight on Businesson Business ADVERTISING FEATUREAUTOBOYZ Service Centre Specialist in: • Alignment • Brakes • Tune Up • Major Repair ~ Electrical Diagnosting ~~ Electrical Diagnosting ~ Call For Further Information 754 McKay Rd., Pickering 905-686-8330 www.autoboyz.cawww.autoboyz.ca Quick Oil Change Bay Full Parking Lot Security Kathryn Jennings, PhD. Over two decades of experience working with anger Working with individuals, couples and children Day, evening and weekend appointments available www.angeronline.com anger1@sympatico.ca Offi ces in Toronto, Uxbridge, Oshawa, Barrie & Pickering THETHE ANGERANGER MANAGEMENTMANAGEMENT COUNSELLINGCOUNSELLING PRACTICE OFPRACTICE OF PICKERINGPICKERINGTMTM 401 Brock#1730 McPherson Ave. Unit #21 1-877-ANGER10 (264-3710) FORMICA • WILSONART • ARBORITE • NEVAMAR 370 MONARCH AVE. UNIT 17 AJAX 905-619-0905 COUNTERTOP KING • Kitchen refacing • Counter - seal under mount sink rings (for laminate countertops) • Premoule Thermo doors Installation and Plumbing services LAMINATE Postform Countertops Wood and Corian Edge Tops Over 500 countertop colours Many styles to choose from Fall in loveFall in love with your kitchen!with your kitchen! COME IN AND VISIT OUR SHOWROOM (R 3ERVICE $$1010 OFFOFF ANY Taxi or Limousine for Out of Town service of $50 or moreWITH THIS AD merry maids® Relax, It’s Done.® One less thing to worry about.® www.formerrymaids.com $3000 OFF First Time Cleaning *New customers only. Minimum 3 hour cleaning 905.837.9601NOW HIRING! F/T House Cleaners Call Michael Briggs at 905-683-5110 ext. 238 or email mbriggs@durhamregion.com for more information on advertising your business in this bi-weekly feature. LETZ-DANCELETZ-DANCE GET HEALTHY! GET HAPPY! GET DANCING! Salsa, Cha Cha, Rhumba, Merangue, Jive, Tango, Foxtrot, Waltz & more Adult & Children Classes Practice & Fun Nights Come with a Partner...Come with a Friend • Come Alone...But Come Have Fun! A great way to get exercise! • Learn to dance like the stars 1884 Altona Rd. Pickering 647-724-5089 / 647-883-2232 www.letz-dance.com ONE FREE SESSION WITH THIS AD At Around The Home Kitchens & Cabinets, they have all the acces- sories you need to complete your dream kitchen. Located at 1550 Bayly Street, Unit 35 & 36, in Pickering, Around The Home Kitchens & Cabinets has been manufacturing and selling kitchens and cabinetry in Durham Region for the past 11 years, and continue to be committed to pro- viding their clients with the high- est quality service and professional workmanship at competitive prices, and take pride in enhancing the beauty and value of their homes. “We are a family-run business where you can speak with the own- er and builder of your kitchen,” says president Wayne Griff. “We offer personalized service, in-home visits, computer assisted drawings, custom made kitchens — at Around The Home Kitchens & Cabinets, you get less fi llers and more cabi- nets.” With over 200 stock colours of Helping you create your dream kitchen post-formed countertops to choose from, including solid surface and granite, Around The Home Kitch- ens & Cabinets has something for everyone, and can assist clients in choosing colours, hardware, and even recommend contractors to make your vision a reality. Along with offering custom designed kitchens and bathroom, Around The Home also provides complete removal and replace- ment of your existing kitchen cabinets, and will assist you when there is a major renovation — and for the do-it-you-selfer, Around The Home will sell direct to so you save money on both wood and thermo foil doors. “We’re not happy until you have your dream kitchen.” Visit their showroom today to view over 100 samples of hard- ware, call (905) 839-0574 or visit them online at www.aroundthe- home.ca. Send holiday greetings to our troops nnintingsgtings DURHAM — Hey kids! Here’s a chance to send a personal holiday greeting to Canadian troops serving overseas, letting them know they’re in our thoughts. Simply draw your own holiday picture in the space provided below and then write a message to go with it. Finish it off with your name, age and town or city of residence. Then cut it out and drop it off or mail it, in care of the Ajax Pickering News Advertiser, 130 Commercial Ave., Ajax, Ont. L1S 2H5. We’ll collect them all and send them off to our soldiers overseas, including Af- ghanistan. You’ve got until 5 p.m. Dec. 12 to get your special greetings in to The Current. Meanwhile, Metroland Durham Region Media Group is organizing video greetings from Durham residents which will be sent to soldiers. A video crew will be set up in the Oshawa Centre in Centre Court from 2 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 7 to tape your 30- to 45-second greetings. There will also be special postcards available that you can sign. And, you’ll find those postcards online at newsdurhamregion.com. You can print them off, sign them and drop them off Dec. 7. All the greetings will be shipped off to Cana- dian Armed Forces for distribution overseas this holiday season. p News A Ont. L1S them o h O Your Name/Age: City: Message: By Fran Zingone fzingone@durhamregion.com DURHAM — Despite December being one of the most expensive months of the year, shoppers just aren’t thinking ahead. Sandra Sherk, executive director of the Credit Counselling Service of Durham Region, sees a lot of clients in March and April who wonder where their financial difficulties came from. “(Debt) usually catches up to you be- cause people don’t know it’s from Christ- mas,” in April, said Ms. Sherk, of the high- interest bills that big holiday shoppers struggle to pay off. She often sees clients who don’t plan ahead or budget and are then in a panic trying to pay their bills after the holiday season is long over. She suggests plan- ning a budget ahead of time in order to keep track of how much money will be spent on each person this holiday. Be prepared for large credit card bills to come in around the end of January. “When you overeat, you make a new year’s resolution to diet, so when you overspend, you say you’ll save this year, but by Jan. 15, you’ve already given up,” said Ms. Sherk. Those interested in some help with this year’s budget or any other finan- cial assistance advice, contact the Credit Counselling Service of Durham Region at 905-579-3328 or 1-877-579-3328. Think ahead and budget wisely for gifts this holiday season Tips to save this season Sandra Sherk has compiled a list of important tips to save money and allow you to enjoy the holidays: -- Set a budget, including items such as wrapping, food, stocking stuffers and cards. -- Make a list and spending limit for those you’re shopping for. -- If you’re short on cash, reduce the spending limit or try to cut the list. -- If possible, shop for children only. -- Always shop with the list and never stray from the spending budget. -- Be creative! Bake cookies, knit mittens or create a photo collage. -- Giving your time is a wonderful gift for the busier people on your list. Offer to help clean their house, shovel their driveway or babysit for them. -- Start picking up food extras when they are on sale throughout the weeks leading up to Christmas to make the big grocery stop a smaller load. -- Instead of exchanging gifts with many friends, suggest a potluck party. Memories are more special than a sweater. -- Consider donating time or extra money to a local charity. -- Pick up wrapping paper and cards on Boxing Day to save for next year. And most importantly, remember that the holiday season should be a special one, not a time you are stuck paying for all year. ‘Debt usually catches up to you because people don’t know it’s from Christmas.’ SANDRA SHERK