Aurora Banner February 25

CUDDY SHARK

FEB. 29 LORE

OUR VIEW

FORMING BONDS PAGE B7 KEY TO JR. A LOOP

FUN FACTS THAT LEAP AT US PAGE A3 EVERY 4 YEARS

POP THAT DOWNTOWN VISIONARY BUBBLE PAGE A6

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Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016

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REGIONAL CHAIR DEBATE

magazine

$1 store sales / 46 pages

COLDEST NIGHT SMASHES GOAL

Should mayors have supported councils’ vote?

Regional politicians free to vote with their conscience

BY LISA QUEEN

W

lqueen@yrmg.com

hen four York Region mayors voted against NewmarketAurora MPP Chris Ballard’s private member’s bill advocating for an elected regional chair — even though their local councils supported it — it raised an interesting question.

Should mayors vote in favour of the wishes of their local councils if they disagree or according to their own conscience?

According to the Municipal Act, a mayor, as chief executive officer of a municipality, shall uphold and promote the purposes of the municipality.

Last week at regional council, Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Newmarket Mayor Tony Van

GET CONNECTED For more stories on this issue, follow bit.ly/1mLRgN0 or email tkibble@yrmg.com

❑

Bynen, Aurora Mayor Geoff Dawe and East Gwillimbury Mayor Virginia Hackson voted contrary to the positions their local council had taken on Ballard’s bill, although they did agree to look at the idea of an elected chair as part of a governance review.

Whitchurch-Stouffville Mayor Justin Altmann was the only mayor whose municipality had considered the issue who voted in favour of Ballard’s bill at regional council, which mirrored his vote See page A4.

ONLINE NEWS

STAFF PHOTO/STEVE SOMERVILLE

Anastasia Trutneva, Patrick Derry and Kelly Stacy lead a fun dance exercise on stage during Saturday’s local Coldest Night of the Year walk that started at Riverwalk Commons. For the story and more photos, go to yorkregion.com by following bit.ly/1L9QPru. For more, visit innfromthecold.ca or call 905-895-8889.

PUBLIC TRANSIT

Service improvements bring worries, hopes DON’T SEE IT IN THE PAPER? CHECK OUT MORE STORIES ONLINE INCLUDING:

❐ POLICE DISAPPOINTED: People just aren’t getting ‘don’t drink/drive’ message: bit.ly/20QMlb1

❐ DINE SAFE YORK: Find out which restaurants and pubs aren’t meeting health standards: bit.ly/1KpTRrt

❐ 2 HIT & RUNS: York Region man arrested following two incidents in Oshawa: bit.ly/1QagbT3

❐ LIFE STORY: Decorated Second World War veteran from Newmarket remembered: bit.ly/20TDoh9

It’s an ‘unprecedented time in transit. There’s a lot going on’

BY LISA QUEEN

W

lqueen@yrmg.com

hen Jen Bowie and her husband bought their Aurora home almost three years ago, they deliberately chose a house backing on the railway tracks because they didn’t want neighbours behind them.

Now, with the promise of 15-minute GO train service arriving over coming years, the mother of a toddler and baby is wondering whether constant disruptive, noisy trains will soon be her new “neighbours.”

“Where we lived before, we were in a fish bowl, so this time, we wanted something where we didn’t

RECREATION

FILE PHOTO

have people’s backyards backing on to us,” the Walton Drive resident said in explaining their decision to buy a house backing on to the train tracks.

“My main thing is if (train service is going to be) every 15 minutes,

‘I’m truly sorry’, Muzzo tells court

BY TERESA LATCHFORD

A

tlatchford@yrmg.com

urora is offering activity passes to help keep children in the community healthy.

The Healthy Kids Activity Pass is a free pass for Aurora children up to 12 years of age and can be used up to seven times to participate in any leisure swim or public skate at the Aurora Family Leisure Complex or the Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex.

“For optimal health, children need 60 minutes of physical activity a day,” Aurora recreation manager Lisa Warth told council members this week. “We want to encourage children to participate in activity when cost could be a barrier and where it isn’t, encourage those children to be active more frequently.”

The passes are being offered as part of a provincewide intiative, Healthy Kids Community Challenge, in partnership with the Windfall Ecology Centre and a number of community organizations, including the York Region school boards. Forty-five Ontario

AFTER

See page A8.

JUSTICE

Town offers activity pass to help keep kids fit

BEFORE

even every half an hour, and we can see them from our backyard because there is a hill at the back, it’s the

Man who killed 4 people apologizes to family

‘I

FILE PHOTO

Aurora now offers a free activity pass for children 12 and younger that can be used up to seven times to participate in any leisure swim or public skate at two of the town’s recreation complexes.

GET CONNECTED ❑

What do you think about this issue? How should it be handled?

Email tkibble@yrmg.com

communities are participating in the three-year challenge meant to support and enhance the wellbeing of children through the promotion of active lifestyles and

healthy eating.

Parents or guardians simply need to visit either the AFLC or SARC and fill out an application.

The passes will be on site and handed out immediately while supplies last.

Simply show the pass at reception where you would pay for swimming or skating where it See page A4.

BY CHRIS SIMON

csimon@yrmg.com

’m truly sorry... from the bottom of my heart.”

Choking back tears, Marco Muzzo says he has been “tortured” by his decision to drive drunk, which led to a crash that caused the deaths of four members of the Neville-Lake family Sept. 27.

Muzzo gave a statement lasting several minutes to the packed courtroom of Justice Michelle Fuerst in Newmarket Wednesday. It was another emotional day at the courthouse, as Crown and defence attorneys took turns making sentencing statements.

i

For more stories on this issue, follow bit.ly/1KI9bjr. Comments?

Email tkibble@yrmg.com

“I stand here... with great remorse,” he said. “I’ve listened to the catastrophic consequences of my actions. I’m at a loss for words and in constant search for the right way to express my sorrow. There are no actions that can ever change what happened.”

The Crown is pushing for Muzzo to be sentenced to 10 to 12 years in See page A12.

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The Aurora Banner, Thursday, February 25, 2016

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The Aurora Banner, Thursday, February 25, 2016

TRIVIA

N R A LE

T

SOME LEAP YEAR

LORE

hink you’re skipping leap year talk this week?

Try again in four years.

Here are some facts about our extra calendar day, as we approach Feb. 29.

Compiled by Chris Simon – sources: famousbirthdays. com, timeanddate.com, imdb.com and history.com

WHY LEAP? Leap years are necessary because they keep the modern 365day Gregorian calendar in alignment with Earth’s revolutions around the sun. It takes the planet about 365.24 days to circle once around our star, so we’d lose nearly six hours off the calendar each year without adjustment — or around 24 days after 100 years. So nearly every four years, we add a day to the Gregorian calendar, totalling 366 for that particular year. Of course, there is an exception to the rule. Century years (1700, 1800 and 1900, for example) cannot be leap years unless they are evenly divisible by 400 (like 1600 and 2000).

CAESAR STARTED IT:

LEAP DAY IN HISTORY:

Roman general Julius Caesar introduced the first leap year more than 2000 years ago, though the Julian calendar required any year evenly divisible by four to become a leap year.

The formula produced too many leap years and was not corrected until the introduction of the Gregorian calendar in many European countries in the 1580s. The Gregorian calendar is currently 13 days ahead of Julian.

• 1916: The British armed merchant ship Alcantara and the German raider Grief sink after engaging each other in a close-range battle on the North Sea during the First World War. The battle lasted for 12 minutes and Alcantara lost 74 men, while 200 died on the Grief. (artist’s depiction below)

FEB. 29 BIRTHDAYS: • Ja Rule, rapper, born in Queens, N.Y. in 1976 • Dinah Shore (1916-1994), pop singer, born in Winchester, Tenn.

• Tony Robbins, self-help author, born in Los Angeles, Calif. in 1960 • Antonio Sabato Jr., soap opera actor, born in Rome, Italy in 1972 • Dennis Farina (1944-2013), TV actor, born in Chicago, Ill. • Cam Ward, hockey player, born in Saskatoon, Sask. in 1984 • Herman Hollerith (1860-1929), scientist and father of modern automatic computation, born in Buffalo, N.Y. • Jimmy Dorsey (1904-1957), composer and saxophonist, born in Shenandoah, Pa.

• Henri Richard, hockey player, born in Montreal, Que. in 1936

• 1940: Gone with the Wind is honoured with eight Oscars by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Hattie McDaniel, who played housemaid and former slave Mammy, won Best Supporting Actress, a first for a black actor.

• 1972: Slugger Hank Aaron signs a three-year deal with the Atlanta Braves, which pays $200,000 annually and makes him the highest-paid player in Major League Baseball.

• 1972: South Korea pulls 11,000 troops out of Vietnam as part of a program to withdraw all of its 48,000 troops from the country during the Vietnam War. • 1996: Joan Collins wins a lawsuit against Random House.

• 2004: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King wins 11 Oscars.

HOLLYWOOD GOES IRISH: Amy Adams, Matthew Goode, Adam Scott and John Lithgow starred in Leap Year in 2010. Adams plays a woman with an elaborate scheme to propose to her boyfriend on leap day, an Irish tradition that happens every time Feb. 29 occurs.

The plan faces a major setback, which leads to a cross-country odyssey.

FEB. 30?

Sweden and Finland had a ‘double’ leap year in 1712. Two days were added to February — creating a date of Feb. 30. This was done because the leap year in 1700 was dropped and Sweden’s calendar was not synchronized with any other. By adding an extra day in 1712, the countries were back on the Julian system.

IMAGES: EARTH: DIGITALVISION/THINKSTOCK; JULIUS CAESAR: PHOTOS.COM/THINKSTOCK; POSTER: UNIVERSAL PICTURES; NAVAL BATTLE: THE TIMES HISTORY AND ENCYCLOPEDIA OF THE WAR; HENRI RICHARD: FRANK LENNON/TORONTO STAR

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The Aurora Banner, Thursday, February 25, 2016

REGIONAL CHAIR DEBATE

COUNCIL

Mayors should vote with their Total of 2,400 passes available in community town councils, pundit says From Front Page

From Front Page

at local council.

The issue had not come up at local councils in Georgina, King, Richmond Hill and Vaughan.

Municipal politics is different than politics at the provincial and federal levels, as there is no party system requiring councillors to vote according to a party platform, York University political science professor Robert MacDermid said.

Mayors and councillors are free to vote according to their conscience.

Mayors and regional councillors aren’t mandated to vote at regional council as their local councils have if they disagree, he added.

At the same time, MacDermid feels they should follow the leads of their councils, particularly if the local vote was overwhelming. For example, all Aurora councillors supported Ballard’s bill.

“I think they probably should carry out the will of the council to the next level. That seems like it would make sense,” he said.

“It is a democracy. The mayor sat and deliberated on the issue at council as one voter amongst a number.

“That’s the unusual thing about municipal politics, the mayor has no extra power, except over the agenda, but only has one vote.

“They presumably discussed it in a democratic fashion and then arrived at a decision and the mayor, in that sense, is bound by the decision in the municipality and probably should, when they carry that same issue forward, should probably represent that decision at the regional level.”

The four mayors argue they quite rightly voted according to their consciences.

Because they are directly elected to regional council, voters heard their views on regional issues, including their opposition to electing the regional chair, during election campaigns and voted

them in knowing their positions.

When it comes to regional issues, they aren’t just puppets of their local councils, they said.

“My vote in both the Newmarket chambers and the regional chambers is consistent with what I believe to be in the best interests of my constituents for both levels of government. In both discussions, I indicated that while I respect the position of my colleagues, I cannot support the motion at this time” Van Bynen said.

“I believe that the question of electing the regional chair directly should be part of the larger review and not considered at this time. We need to know the changes that the province is contemplating and have the benefit of our own governance review to make an informed decision, before I am prepared to support (Ballard’s bill).”

Dawe agrees a governance review will address a number of issues at the region, including difficulties municipalities with only one representative face, rather than just singling out the elected chair matter.

Whether a mayor should support a local council decision at the region if he or she disagrees is a complex issue, Dawe said.

“That’s a rather gray question to which you are seeking a black and white answer,” he said, adding he is directly elected to regional council to make the decisions he feels are in the best interests of the town and the region.

“So, while I do take the considerations of (town) councillors very seriously, I am obligated to weigh that against other facts that they may not be aware of as they do not sit at the regional table, and then make a decision that I feel to be in the best interest of Aurora as a whole. I believe that all information must be considered at the time of the vote and a decision should be made based on the needs of the community I represent,” he said.

Voters were aware of Scarpitti’s position on the regional chair during

Feb. 27

this

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Mar. 11

a reTurn engagemenT From The masTer Folk & rooTs singer anD sToryTeller.

The Town of Aurora printed and mailed bills to property owners Jan. 22, with the billing due in two installments: Feb. 23 and April 25.

However, the town has been notified that a number of residents have not received their 2016 interim property tax bill and is advising those who haven’t received it to call Access Aurora at 905-727-1375 to request a reprint and for information on the amount due as of Feb. 23.

Penalty charges are being waived for those impacted until March 1 at 4:30 p.m.

For more information, visit aurora.ca.

Call put out for award-worthy students Neighbourhood Network seeks submissions for the 2016 Give Back Awards.

Graduating high school students from Aurora, Newmarket, Georgina and King Township who have made a positive contribution to their fellow students and citizens while demonstrating a strong commitment to the community are eligible to apply.

Students who apply for the award have a chance to win $500 in cash and to be recognized at a ceremony with 19 other students.

Submissions are due by 4:30 p.m. March 24.

For more information and to apply, visit nnetwork. org/GiveBackAwards.

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Pass holders who use all seven redemptions to participate before the July expiry date will be entered to win an action pack valued at $100, containing prizes, drop-in passes and more, which will be drawn for on July 22.

There are only 2,400 passes available and in the first week after launching the program, more than 400 passes have already been approved and given out, according to Warth.

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past elections and voted him in, the Markham mayor said.

While he is willing to defend Markham council’s position on purely local issues he disagrees with at regional council, he said he should rely on his own beliefs and experiences when he is voting on multi-jurisdictional issues.

Even though the chair is not directly elected by voters, the position is chosen by elected mayors and regional councillors who choose the person they feel will lead them best, Scarpitti said.

A decision on electing the regional chair needs to happen after the governance review and after the province spells out its intentions on broader municipal issues, said Hackson, adding East Gwillimbury is also carrying out its own electoral review.

While Markham Councillor Joe Li, who put forward the motion supporting Ballard’s bill, agrees mayors should have the right to vote according to their conscience, he also believes they should strongly consider supporting decisions of their local councils.

“Personally, I don’t want to dispute their own choice, but maybe if most of my council members have voted differently than what I want, then maybe it’s time for me to reflect and think deeply.

Maybe it’s the right thing to do. This is my personal opinion,” he said.

Getting past the complexities of the Municipal Act and mayors wearing local and regional hats, the region should take the issue of an elected chair to the public, MacDermid said.

“Beyond that, they should just have a referendum. Why don’t they go to the people and get rid of all this silliness?

Just have a referendum at the next municipal election,” he said.

“Or better still, just go ahead and do it because virtually every other regional municipality... has done it. Why they’re not doing that is because they understand most people would be in favour of an elected chair. All of this just seems to be a way of sidelining what the people want.”

dren will need proof of residency in Aurora. The town will accept rent receipts, current utility bills, child tax benefit statement, lease or mortgage agreement, property tax bill or an Ontario driver’s license.

Proof of the child’s age must also be provided in the form of a birth certificate, citizenship card, passport, certificate of Indian status or immigration and refugee document issued by Citizen and Immigration Canada.

More information on how to apply for the pass and full swimming and skating schedules are available at aurora.ca/ healthykidspass.

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The Aurora Banner, Thursday, February 25, 2016

what ’s on

To have your event included in

what ’s on add it to our calendar at

Don’t miss our specials on page A2!

To have your event included in what’s on, add it to our calendar at yorkregion.com

Today

music. The method is fresh and fun and we are a warm and welcoming community. You are welcome to attend a practice with no obligation and new members are welcome at any time. For more information about the choir, visit their website at www.shoutsisterchoir.ca.

Contact: Oriole Claxton, members@shoutsisterchoir.ca.

Art at the manor 2015 Ongoing until March 31.

Hillary House National Historic Site, 15372 Yonge St. in Aurora.

Fourth annual exhibit showcases pieces by local artists who are influenced by the world around them. Visit aurorahs.com to find out more. Features works by Claire D’Aurore, Deborah Campo and Christine Valentini.

Contact: Erika, erika.mazanik@aurorahs.com, 905-727-8991.

Ones & Twos March 1, 11 to 11:30 a.m.

East Gwillimbury Public Library - Mount Albert branch, 19300 Centre St. An interactive program that stimulates the imagination with early literacy activities including books & songs for toddlers. Ages: 18 - 30 months. Free.

The Art of Theatre: A Theatre Aurora Community as Curator Heritage Display Ongoing until March 30, various times.

Aurora Cultural Centre, 22 Church St. A Community as Curator Heritage Exhibition Behind every great show, is a team of great designers. Take a look at the designs behind the shows of recent Theatre Aurora productions, with artwork and designs from designers including Holly Williamson, Andrew Cleveland, and Resident Artist Thomas Dannenberg. Continuing through March 30 in the Apple Suites Gallery, Main Floor. Admission is at no charge.

Contact: Jane Taylor, info@auroraculturalcentre.ca, 905-713-1818.

Bogart P.S. Voices for Africa March 2, 6:15 p.m.

Newmarket Theatre, 505 Pickering Cres.

Voices for Africa is a local fundraising music concert now in its 10th year.

Over the past 10 years, more than 2,500 local area school children have participated, raising over $150,000 for the Stephen Lewis Foundation.

Contact: Newmarket Theatre box office 905-953-5122 or newtix.ca.

Preschool Storytime March 2, 11 to 11:30 a.m.

Holland Landing Public Library, 19513 Yonge St. Ages 30 months - 5 years. Drop In. Enjoy books, music, puppets, and activities that help preschoolers get ready to read.

Contact: Heather Alblas, halblas@egpl.ca, 905-826-6492.

Scout Display at the Elman Campbell Museum Ongoing until March 18.

Elman W. Campbell Museum, 134 Main St. S in Newmarket.

Scouting is being commemorated with the annual display at the Elman W. Campbell Museum. The display will be on view until March 18. Free Admission. Open Tuesdays-Saturdays 10a.m.- noon and 1 to 4p.m.

Info: Beth Sinyard, Curator, elmanmuseum@rogers.com, 905-953-5314.

BOTTLE DRIVE FUNDRAISER - HELP A CADET VISIT VIMY Feb. 25, 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Optimist Hall of Newmarket, 56 Forhan Dr. Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps 221 Patriot asks you to donate bottles and cans to help send a cadet’s trip to France, for the 100th anniversary of Canada’s capture of Vimy Ridge. Drop off times: Tuesdays and Thursdays between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. Call 905-895-3038 to arrange for a pickup.

Info: www.eftours.ca/educational-tours, 221partiot-118carinthia.weebly. com, www.gofundme.com/cadetsvisitvimy or 647-893-3499.

Theatre Aurora presents Sexy Laundry Feb. 25-27 & March 3-5, 8 p.m. and Feb. 28, 2 p.m.

Theatre Aurora,150 Henderson Drive.

After 25 years of marriage, Alice and Henry have hit a physical plateau.

Armed with a “Sex for Dummies” guidebook, Alice convinces Henry into a weekend of alone time. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students.

Visit theatreaurora.com for tickets.

Contact: tickets@theatreaurora.com, 905-727-3669.

DAREarts Second Annual First Roots Feast Feb. 25, 6 to 9:30 p.m.

Madsen’s Greenhouse & Banquet Centre, 160 Bayview Pkwy.

DAREarts is a charity with the goal of supporting hope for the children and youth in Aboriginal communities. The First Roots Aboriginal Program travels to communities, both in the far north and in cities, to empower youth through the arts. Come for the annual fundraiser to experience song, dance, stories and “Indigenous cuisine with a twist” provided by the Huron Heights hospitality program. There will be a silent auction featuring items and services donated by local businesses and artisans. Cost is $65 per person. For more details, visit www.darearts.com/First-Roots-Feast.shtml Contact: Brenda Norton, bnorton@darearts.com, 1-888-540-2787.

GiRLs Inc. - Operation SMART Feb. 25, 6 to 8 p.m.

Holland Landing Public Library, 19513 Yonge St. Girls ages 8 - 11 years. Register. Come take a fun hands-on, girl-focused approach to science, technology, engineering and math! Presented by Girls Inc. of York Region. The cost is $2.

Contact: Heather Alblas, halblas@egpl.ca, 905-826-6492.

Tomorrow

Newmarket Psychic Expo 2016 Feb. 26, 12 to 9 p.m., Feb. 27, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. & Feb. 28, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Optimist Club, 56 Forhan Dr. Meet one-on-one for a private psychic reading and explore: aura photos, tarot cards, clairvoyance, hands-on healing, numerology, palmistry and so much more! Check out the crystals and jewelry and stay for some free psychic demonstrations where audience participation is encouraged! Admission is $10 for the entire weekend.

For a $2 admission discount coupon and a FREE crystal with your admission, visit www.psychicexpos.com.

Contact: fulcher@psychicexpos.com.

Ones & Twos March 2, 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.

Holland Landing Public Library, 19513 Yonge St. An interactive program that stimulates the imagination with early literacy activities including books & songs for toddlers. Ages: 18 - 30 months. Free.

Contact: Heather Alblas, halblas@egpl.ca, 905-826-6492.

Reader Hailey Downing sent us this Your Shot of a squirrel hanging out in a tree. Send us Your Shot. The ongoing theme is Nature & Wildlife. Email your high-quality jpegs to editor Tracy Kibble at tkibble@yrmg.com for a chance to have your photo included in our online gallery and published in the newspaper.

This weekend

Contact: Mark Ostler, mostler@rogers.com, 905-836-1219.

BLOOD DONOR CLINIC Feb. 27, 9 a.m. to noon.

York Region Administrative Centre, 17250 Yonge St. February = Family. Just think, one day it could be you or someone in your family that needs blood. 1900 new donors are needed every week in Canada to ensure hospital patients have the blood they need. Book your appointment to donate on the GiveBlood app or online.

Contact: elaine.stpierre@blood.ca, 1-888-236-6283, www.blood.ca

Vegan potluck Feb. 28, 12:30 to 4 p.m.

Aurora Public Library, 15145 Yonge St. Aurora’s Animal Rights Advocates are honoured to have Dr Tushar Mehta speaking at 2 p.m. Dr. Mehta received a bachelor of arts and science from McMaster University and completed medical school at the University of Toronto, doing his residency in family medicine. He also practices emergency medicine and addictions medicine. He believes in the understanding of environmental and animal rights issues and causing people to reflect on compassion and philosophy. Mehta has also volunteeed in India, Zimbabwe and Kenya. Join the potluck on Feb. 28 and bring along a friend, they need not bring food if they don’t feel up to it, but come to listen to this talk and enjoy the wonderful vegan food! Bring a $10 donation.

Contact: Siva, nalluranhome@yahoo.com, 416-438-7138.

Aimée Butcher Feb. 27, 7:30 to 10 p.m.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 227 Church St. Singer-songwriter Aimée Butcher will sing selections from her acclaimed debut album, The World is Alright. She will also sing some new original tunes and a few great arrangements of famous pop and jazz standards.

Her band for the show will be Robin Claxton (drums), Jeff Deegan (bass), Joel Visentin (keyboard), and Brandon Wall (guitar). St. Paul’s has excellent acoustics for musical performances, and there will be a wine bar for this event. Tickets are $15 and available by calling the church or at the door.

Contact: 905-853-7285.

David Francey in Concert Feb. 27, 8 to 10 p.m.

Aurora Cultural Centre, 22 Church St. A three-time Juno Award-winner, David Francey’s songs are stories, documentaries of a regular working man’s life. He came to the music world late in life, with a debut album in his 40s - Torn Screen Door - and another nine have followed. He knows every nook and cranny of Canada, having toured many concert halls. His large and devoted following know what an entertaining and heartfelt performance he brings to his roots/troubadour vibe.

Cash bar. CDs available for sale. Tickets $28 in advance, $32 day of concert.

Contact: Jane Taylor, info@auroraculturalcentre.ca, 905-713-1818.

FLK Taoist Tai Chi - Beginners Welcome Feb. 28, 10 a.m. and March 2 & 4, 9:30 a.m.

Newmarket Branch, 355 Davis Dr. Think it’s too late for a New Year’s resolution? The Year of the Monkey is just beginning! Come out to any of the classes and make the best decision of the year, learn the 108 steps of the Taoist Tai Chi Set and improve your mind, health and spirit. Bring yourself and bring a friend—this is the resolution you will be glad you kept, come check us out today!

The Aurora Banner published a series of articles on my business.

Now everyone knows how great we are!

Next week Understanding Our Mind: a Buddhist perspective with Gen Kelsang Suma Feb. 29, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 227 Church St. in Newmarket.

This series of classes is a practical guide to understanding one’s mind. We will learn how to recognize and reduce painful ways of thinking and to replace these with meaningful and beneficial views. Although part of a series, each class is self-contained, and consists of guided meditation, a teaching and time for discussion. Cost: $10 per class or 5 classes for $40.

Contact: Betty Whitehouse, epcjampaling@gmail.com, 705-733-5255.

Babytime March 1, 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.

East Gwillimbury Public Library - Mount Albert branch, 19300 Centre St. Share our simple stories, songs and interactive play with your little one while learning about early literacy for babies. Ages: Birth - 17 Months Free.

Shout Sister Choir York/Newmarket March 1, 1 to 3 p.m.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 227 Church St. Choir always welcoming new members! Shout Sister! takes an unorthodox approach to choral singing. They do not audition and they sing a fun variety of music from pop and Motown, to folk, to a touch of country and blues. Members learn from recorded tracks so they require no reading of

Babytime March 3, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Holland Landing Public Library, 19513 Yonge St. Birth - 17 months. Share our simple stories, songs, and interactive play with your little one while learning about early literacy for babies.

Contact: Heather Alblas, halblas@egpl.ca, 905-826-6492.

Preschool Storytime March 3, 10:30 to 11 a.m.

East Gwillimbury Public Library - Mount Albert branch, 19300 Centre St. Ages 30 months - 5 years. Drop In. Enjoy books, music, puppets, and activities that help preschoolers get ready to read.

Aurora Winter Blues Festival Blues Bash Festival Kickoff March 5, 7 p.m.

Highland Autmotive Showroom, 15783 Yonge St. Come out for a jumpin’ evening of live music and fundraising featuring the Turbo Street Funk Band. Tickets are $50. Ticket prices include AWBF Youth in Music performance, live and silent auction, dancing, door prizes, live painting to the beat and some delicious food.

Contact: awbf.ca BLOOD DONOR CLINIC March 3, 2:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Aurora Legion, 105 Industrial Parkway N. March yourself into a blood donor clinic to #GiveLife! For many of us, March break = travel. If you are travelling outside North America consider this option: GIVE Before You GO! DYK? 1 in 2 Canadians will either need blood or know someone who will at some point in their lives. 1 in 2 people are eligible to donate, yet only 1 in 60 actually does. That means 4% of Canadians sustain the blood system for 100% of Canadians. We need you!

Visit www.blood.ca to book online or download the GiveBlood app.

Contact: elaine.stpierre@blood.ca, 1-888-236-6283, www.blood.ca.

Bingo World Newmarket Gaming Centre March 4, 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Bingo World Newmarket, 1230 Kerrisdale Blvd.

Bingo World Newmarket has undergone a Charitable Bingo and Gaming transformation and is now offering new products and technologies - like electronic bingo, Tap Tix and more - delivering a new entertainment experience to you! Customers can kick back with friends in a welcoming, comfortable environment and have some fun! Come & have some fun, a bite to eat & participate in the electronic games of chance you love in your own community, all in support of 33 local non-profit organizations! Must be 18 years of age or older. Government- issued ID may be required.

Contact: newmarket@bingoworld.ca, 905-836-4861.

To have your event included in what’s on, add it to our calendar at yorkregion.com

CANADA SUMMER JOBS Canada Summer Jobs provides funding for: • Not-for-profit organizations, • Small businesses, • Public sector employers The application period is currently open.

The deadline for applications is March 11, 2016.

Applicants approved for funding will be able to hire students as early as May 2016.

The Newmarket-Aurora, the priorities will focus on: Special Events: • Community Celebrations • Summer Festivals & Events • Agricultural Fairs • Canada’s 150th Anniversary of Confederation • Summer Camps

Sectors: • Manufacturing, • Not-for-profit organizations • Public, Tourism • Knowledge and high-tech infrastructure • Local organizations • Not-for-profit organizations that provide programs & services for disadvantaged community groups • Private-sector organizations with a mentoring plan.

All eligible employers in Newmarket-Aurora are encouraged to apply by visiting the Service Canada website at: www.servicecanada.gc.ca/csj

Each year we help over 50,000 businesses connect with local consumers.

Call 905-853-8888 or email Arleen Hammond at ahammond@yrmg.com today to find out more about our amazing Content Marketing Packages.

For more information or any questions regarding the Canada Summer Jobs Program, please contact my Constituency Office at Tel: 905-953-7515

Kyle Peterson

Member of Parliament | Newmarket - Aurora Constituency Office 16600 Bayview Avenue, Unit# 202 Newmarket, ON L3X 1Z9 Tel: 905-953-7515 Fax: 905-953-7527 Email: Kyle.Peterson@parl.gc.ca Website: kpeterson.liberal.ca @kylejpeterson /kyle.peterson.newmarketaurora

905-726-2149 www.bbbsy.ca A little time can make a HUGE difference in a child’s life!

One of our many exciting programs is sure to fit your schedule This message brought to you as a community service of York Region Media Group C

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The Aurora Banner, Thursday, February 25, 2016

OPINION

The BANNER

General Manager Shaun Sauve

Publisher Dana Robbins

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www.yorkregion.com 580 Steven Crt., Newmarket, ON L3Y 6Z2

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Director, Advertising Maureen Christie

EDITORIAL

Downtowns can’t exist in bubble if success is target

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hings are, quite literally, starting to look up in many of York Region’s communities.

A combination of factors, including a dwindling supply of developable land and provincial policies favouring intensification over suburban sprawl, are changing the way our municipalities grow. This transformation is most evident in the region’s three southernmost municipalities of Markham, Vaughan and Richmond Hill, but the phenomenon is also starting to make its way north.

In Aurora, a modern six-storey condominium development is under construction at Yonge and Centre streets, just north of the town’s historic downtown core, and a 15-storey, 225-unit rental apartment building is being built by the Rose Corporation at 212 Davis Dr. in Newmarket. The latter development will be the first purpose-built rental project of its kind built in the region since the 1980s.

The most recent proposal demonstrating the upward trend in this part of the region can be found in Newmarket in the form of the Forrest Group’s redevelopment plan for the Main Street clock tower.

Originally eyed to be a condo building, Forrest Group submitted an amended zoning bylaw application for the site — which calls for the construction of a 165-unit, seven-storey apartment complex near the Main and Park Avenue intersection — to the Town of Newmarket Feb. 2. If the proposal were constructed as presented, it would include five groundfloor retail commercial units fronting Main.

The building would otherwise consist entirely of rental apartments of up to two bedrooms in size and ranging between 400 and 900 square feet. Some of the suites could be two storeys in size.

As with the Rose Corporation’s development, this proposal would provide private rental units, which the town and the region have said, time and time again, are badly needed. On top of that, the proposal also preserves the clock tower — an iconic part of Main’s look and feel — and will also provide it with a purpose in the form of commercial space.

It’s a win-win and the kind of concept other York Region municipalities can and should be looking to incorporate into their own downtown areas and main streets.

As with any novel idea, not everyone is thrilled at the prospect of Main changing.

The Main Street District Business Improvement Area’s board has been vocal in its opposition to the proposal, saying it only supports “responsible development” that keeps with the three-storey height limit spelled out in the Downtown Newmarket Heritage Business District under the Heritage Act. It has also spoken out about the impact of the temporary loss of public parking spaces on area businesses during construction of the apartment’s underground garage.

Others in the community have also raised concerns about heritage preservation, parking, intensification and community ambience issues.

While a loss of Market Square parking will indeed occur during construction of the complex’s underground parking, there is a fair amount of parking in and around Main and Riverwalk Commons — which the town should publicize better — and long-term, apartments will bring what the increasingly trendy Main Street-area businesses need most: potential customers within walking distance.

Certainly, the upper storeys of the new building will rise above those that front Main, but this sort of development has been a success in many much older cities with much older buildings. Just look at parts of Toronto.

Are there good and bad examples out there? Absolutely. It will be up to municipal staff, councils and citizens to ensure that efforts to protect heritage are weighed against developers’ wants and the needs of our growing communities.

That said, preserving the past, shouldn’t mean sacrificing the future.

Newmarket’s downtown, as with any area, can’t exist in a bubble eternally resisting the winds of change.

Eventually, the choices boil down to evolution or extinction.

Chris Simon

Election of region’s chair makes sense

N LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Does region not understand transit users?

Re: Cheap gas prices take toll on public transit: bit.ly/1o7GNgC and GO shuttle could be boom or bust for commuters: bit.ly/1LErgtC, Feb. 11.

Why are decisions on transportation made by shortsighted planners and politicians’ driving us to gridlock?

Two front page stories are worth following.

The first one has York Region’s transportation commissioner complaining how cheap gas prices have led to dropping transit ridership numbers, using data from October to December 2015.

Does the region not understand its customers? It’s winter. I would suspect this trend would repeat seasonally.

Perhaps York Region’s transportation commissioner was using forecasted numbers he believed would be added by the opening of the rapidways?

Unfortunately, building duplicate services does not duplicate ridership.

The only relevant numbers dropping besides the temperature are total tax revenues extracted from drivers at the pumps.

Here, I segue into the second story: GO shuttle boom or bust.

The region has an additional $15 million of gas tax dollars extracted at the pumps and is now debating its use.

While politicians want to focus, and I quote, on the “last mile” of a commuter’s journey, I would ask to refocus on the shortcomings of the first mile.

The article highlights Aurora’s inadequate Wellington Street commuter lot and the overflow parking in nearby parks.

It is clear what commuters want, need and have paid for through their gas tax. What is not clear is if the war on cars is more important than building ridership.

We can debate the reasons people may not want to add extra commute time, may not want to stand in the freezing cold or pouring rain or walk through slush to get to a shuttle.

We could build another bureaucracy-duplicating service already there or we could build another parking facility for the GO train that is critically needed to increase an already loyal ridership.

One thing’s for sure: Let’s build something people will actually use and perhaps that will be the first step to turn drivers into riders.

Karin Eichler Aurora

Being in the black is black mark on East Gwillimbury Re: Water rates rising $108 more this year, Feb. 11: bit. ly/1Q9eJ3e The Town of East Gwillimbury

should be ashamed of being debt free.

If you review the proposed budget for water and waste water, you will see it will collect money for future services. As communities grow, so will future revenue, which should be more than enough to cover future costs.

This early collection of money will sit in town coffers depreciating in value. This money means fewer nights at local restaurants or in local shops for residents. Why? So council can sit on a pile of money?

If needs arise, debt can be used to cover costs and spread evenly to new and old residents over the lifespan of the infrastructure. Being debt-free should come from responsibility, such as lowering administration costs associated to water and waste water, not from just continuously collecting more money from over-taxed residents.

Steve Jessop Mount Albert

Thanks to Newmarket for great outdoor rink There are few activities that represent Canadiana more than skating or playing shinny on an outdoor rink. I live near Ken Sturgeon Park in Newmarket, and as long as there is daylight, there doesn’t seem to be a minute outside of school hours when the outdoor rink there is not being enjoyed by children and their families. It’s a wonderful sight.

The Ken Sturgeon rink has been a terrific addition to the community and I know it does not happen without the support of the town, the leadership of Ward 1 Councillor Tom Vegh and the hard work of dedicated neighbourhood volunteers who not only built the rink, but are out there daily maintaining it (even when the temperatures dipped to -25).

I have to think many of the kids using the rink might, instead, be indoors playing video games, watching TV or surfing the Internet if not for this outdoor rink.

So, congratulations to Vegh and his volunteer team for forming a successful town/community partnership and creating a fantastic space for residents to be outdoors and actively enjoying the winter season.

Rob Hums Newmarket

Transit management out of touch with users Re: Cheap gas prices take toll on public transit: bit. ly/1o7GNgC and GO shuttle could be boom or bust for commuters: bit.ly/1LErgtC, Feb. 11.

Read the above stories and you will understand how out of touch transit management is

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SEND LETTERS to editor Tracy Kibble at tkibble@yrmg.com

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with commuters.

A quick recap: In this first article, gas prices are dropping, so people are driving cars and not taking transit.

How about the cost of transit fares going down correspondingly to keep existing riders and attract new ones?

The second article is about a lack of parking at GO stations.

I am not a transit expert, but if you want new commuters, why not give them a place to park?

Make it easy. At Rutherford Road in Richmond Hill, we call it the Olympics because commuters run — and I mean run fast — to their cars, because, if you don’t get to your car quickly to get out of the parking lot, you can wait for 20 minutes to get out.

Twenty minutes. Oh yeah, the GO train also charges to park in many locations up to $94 a month.

In Aurora, the GO train super geniuses want to add more buses to take commuters to the GO train station because there is not enough parking.

I suspect there will be a charge for buses and parking (maybe) and train fare. The price tag for new buses is expected to be $15 million, funded by gas tax revenue. That is you and me, folks, paying for this.

It sounds like placing a BandAid on a gushing wound. Here is a thought …. why not plan ahead?

For example, we have a huge residential development progressing in Sharon. Why not start developing a multi-level parking structure at the station at East Gwillimbury with multiple exits, so commuters can easily leave.

Try exiting on both Green Lane and Main Street to assist in disbursing traffic with stop lights that adjust for peak times.

Look at Union Pearson (UP), the rail service from Union Station to the airport. It cost you and me about $500 million to set up and it is 90 per cent under-utilized.

Why? The cost per person is almost as much as a limo, Uber or taxi, so, if two people are travelling together? Limo, it is.

The UP passes commuters using other transit services wanting to go to downtown because the service was not integrated with other transit.

Richard Moore Mount Albert

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READ All our published letters at yorkregion.com or send your letter to the editor to Tracy Kibble at tkibble@yrmg.com

o one should be surprised by York Region council’s stance against the direct election of its chairperson.

In a 14-5 vote last week, council rejected Newmarket-Aurora MPP Chris Ballard’s private member’s bill to make the regional chair an elected position. The decision — while it goes against the will of several lower-tier municipal council resolutions made in recent months — was expected.

After all, if you were a regional councillor who earned more than $50,000 in salary for a position that comes with a mediocre to poor level of civic engagement, you’d probably be hesitant to rock the boat, too.

Simply put, it is not to the political advantage of many of the 20 York Regional councillors to seek a direct election of a chair. Perhaps this is all posturing anyhow — a way of buying time until the decision is taken out of council’s hands and legislated through Ballard’s bill into law.

However, that doesn’t make York council’s decision right. Only a few weeks ago, Newmarket council voted 7-1 in favour of supporting Ballard’s bill. Mayor Tony Van Bynen cast a vote against the motion, justifying his position by noting the Ontario government is currently reviewing the governance framework of municipalities across the province, including York’s.

Newmarket joined four other councils — East Gwillimbury, Markham, Aurora and Whitchurch-Stouffville — in voting in favour of electing the York chair in recent months. With the exception of Stouffville, mayors in each of the respective municipalities have opposed their council’s motion.

That was a fine stance at the lowertier level, but these mayors should have voted in support of their councils once at the region. They have a duty to represent the wishes of their municipalities and constituents and should vote accordingly.

The vote over Ballard’s bill could have been much different — a tie, in fact, if regional council members voted strictly for the defence of their lower-tier municipalities’ resolutions, a stance that may have forced current chair Wayne Emmerson to cast the deciding vote.

It’s hard to see Van Bynen’s point, since the election of a chair really doesn’t affect the way York government functions. A call for direct election would hardly be counterproductive or even radically opposed to the province’s viewpoint. Ballard is a Liberal MPP, of course, and his bill has passed second reading in a legislature where his party holds a majority. If anything, a governance review may help better define the expectations and responsibilities for the position, giving voters some idea of what they could expect from a duly elected chair.

York council oversees a $3-billion annual budget that provides critical services to nearly 1.2 million people.

Those services range from roads and public transportation to public housing and emergency response. Almost every facet of your everyday life is affected, in some way, by the region.

The chair guides those councillors through regular meetings, casts the tie-breaking vote at council and advocates for the region during negotiations with other legislative bodies.

That final point will become quite apparent when Emmerson leads a contingent of York officials to Ottawa this week, to lobby the federal government on a number of local issues.

Sure, the chair is one vote on a large council. But former chair Bill Fisch earned more than $270,000 ($224,275 in remuneration, $39,150 in benefits and $6,828 in expenses) during his final year in office in 2014. The chair is the highest paid municipal political position in the region, but its selection process is the least scrutinized.

It’s time to change that. York residents should select a chair through the rigours of an election campaign, where candidates debate their competing visions for the region and show they’re worthy of your trust and tax dollars.

For all your delivery inquiries, please e-mail yrcustomerservice@ yrmg.com or call 1-855-853-5613

EDITORIAL 905-853-8888 ADVERTISING 905-853-8888 / Fax: 905-853-4626 250 Industrial Pkwy. N., Aurora, ON L4G 4C3

York Region Media Group community newspapers The Era, The Banner and The Express, published every Thursday are divisions of the Metroland Media Group Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Torstar Corporation. The Metroland family of newspapers is comprised of 100 community publications across Ontario. The York Region Media Group includes The Liberal, serving Richmond Hill and Thornhill, Newmarket Era, Aurora Banner, East Gwillimbury Express, King Connection, Vaughan Citizen, Markham Economist & Sun, Stouffville SunTribune, Georgina Advocate, Bradford Topic, GoodLife, beingwell and yorkregion.com

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The Aurora Banner, Thursday, February 25, 2016

YORK REGION LIVING

Paul’s Barber Shop has been tidying up men’s hair in Aurora for 76 years.

Owner Iraj Keshavarz and Omid Ghaemi are continuing the tradition.

Photography by Mike Barrett

NEED NEED AA TRIM? TRIM? Clockwise from top left: Graham Sutton doesn’t mind waiting a little while, travelling from Caledon just to come to the shop; owner Iraj Keshavarz serves a customer; Keshavarz provides a cut for Rob Rovina of Newmarket; tools of the trade; Omid Ghaemi prepares Aurora’s Ken Devine for a haircut; Ghaemi takes a little off the sides for Matthew Cook; Sutton gets his turn in the chair.

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The Aurora Banner, Thursday, February 25, 2016

PUBLIC TRANSIT

‘Getting there is going to be painful’, mayor says “That’s what would make people want to take (transit), is that they don’t have to nickel and dime.”

Newmarket Mayor Tony Van Bynen was pleased to see a new train station on Mulock Drive scored well in some areas in an analysis of 120 potential stations across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area.

It scored high on travel time savings and medium on construction affordability and ease of construction, but came in low in other measurement criteria such as connectivity and ridership drivers, market potential, development potential and policy alignment.

“For us, the Mulock Drive station makes sense because of a lot of things. People in south Newmarket are having to go down to the Aurora station, so I think it would provide a lot of relief to the Aurora station as far as parking,” Van Bynen said.

“I’m excited about that. It might even expand the possibility of more frequent service up to

‘When you look at other places in the world, they have these amazing subway systems and bus systems and the GTA doesn’t have anything integrated as one big service.’

— Aurora resident Scott McBride

‘It’s the sound, it’s the frequency, it’s the noise. Even though electrification is supposed to be quieter, it’s disconcerting. We know it’s a done deal. We just want to know what we’re in for.’

— Aurora resident Jen Bowie

Building the enhanced system will also create many jobs across the region, he said.

“It will be like Toronto in the late ’40s into the ’50s, where every road was being torn up and rebuilt. It will be a huge boon to jobs, tradespeople, labourers, management.

All hands on deck,” he said.

Eventually, there will be GO train service around the clock, Ballard said.

“Ultimately, there will be. My understanding is when the population gets to the point that it’s economically viable, there will be 24-hour service,” he said.

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Roadhouse & Rose has been undergoing partial renovations for a short time. We have recently been completing the final touches to our new welcome area and we are excited to once again open the South entrance to our community. This March 13, from 4-6 p.m., we cordially invite you to share the afternoon with us as we unveil our new welcome area. If you are interested in attending, or for more information, please contact Juli at juli@roadhouseandrose.com or call 905.895.6631.

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We have been lucky this Winter season to only have had a few really cold snaps.

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Since early 2010, the law was passed banning the use or handling a handheld device. As of September 1, 2015 this law was amended, with an increase in the fine and demerit points being added. The fine was increased to $400 and 3 demerit points. Another major change is the impact to a Novice Driver (G1,G2,M1,M2). If caught and charged with Handheld device, the Novice driver will automatically have a 30 day suspension for the first conviction , 90 day for second conviction and possible licence cancellation for third conviction.

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Long term solutions • Air seal around doors, windows, holes and cracks on the exterior of your home • Add insulation, put a thick blanket on insulation between the cold and your pipes.

If your home has an air conditioner, your mechanical equipment operates all year long, often 24 hours a day. Just like your vehicle requires regular maintenance (and it operates less), the equipment needs attention. Having a contract with a local licensed contractor can make sense. The contractor will be familiar with your system and whether or not it has warranties. Your equipment will operate at peak efficiency, saving you on energy costs. Many agreements include parts and labour should breakdowns occur or a discount on them, no diagnostic or overtime fees and preferred scheduling. As always check the contract’s terms and conditions before signing.

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Dryer Vent Cleaning, Repair, Installation

Lack of cleaning and maintenance is the major contributor to dryer fires. Lint accumulates on the inside of dryer vents and also finds its way into the dryer housing. It only takes a spark to ignite lint. Once lint is burning it can smolder or blaze very quickly. The fire will follow the path of the lint and ultimately burn through the venting system. Having metal foil or plastic venting allows the fire to escape resulting in a laundry room / house fire. Dryer vents should be constructed of rigid or semi-rigid piping as these materials will contain a fire and allow for proper operation of your dyer. Warning signs of a potential dryer fire include, clothes take longer than a regular cycle to dry, build up of lint in and around the back of the dryer or the dryer gets very hot to the touch. Your Dryer Vent Wizard specialist cleans,installs, repairs and alter vents. We also de-lint the inside of most dryer models

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WHAT THEY SAID

Mulock.”

One look at the number of red tail lights heading down Hwy. 404 during the morning rush hour is all it takes to realize better transit service is needed, Van Bynen said.

Aurora Mayor Geoff Dawe agreed.

“I think the plan is great, I think the concept is great. The more we can get people off the roads and on to transit, the better off we’re going to be,” he said.

“Getting there is going to be painful. Getting people to the train station right now, people want to drive, but the reality is there is only so much money to build parking garages. We can only do so many of those so we’re now looking back at bus shuttle capability (to get people to and from their homes to the train station). The challenge is getting people out of their cars.”

While it will take time to bring in electrification of GO train service, improved diesel service is just around the corner, NewmarketAurora MPP Chris Ballard said.

For example, shorter trains in off-peak hours running every hour to Barrie is expected within two years, he said.

Providing eventual train service in 15-minute intervals to Aurora and 30 minutes to Newmarket should bring economic growth and jobs to the area, Ballard said.

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sound, it’s the frequency, it’s the noise. Even though electrification is supposed to be quieter, it’s disconcerting. We know it’s a done deal. We just want to know what we’re in for.”

Bowie was one of dozens of people who attended an open house hosted by Metrolinx, a provincial agency that manages and integrates road transport and public transportation in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, in Aurora last week.

The meeting, at St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic High school, was one of several being held in the GTA, including Feb. 22 in Unionville, March 2 at Stouffville District Secondary School and March 7 at St. Joan of Arc Catholic High School in Maple. All meetings run from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The open houses are providing information about and seeking residents’ feedback on the regional transportation plan, electrification of GO trains, potential new train stations and fare integration.

“It’s an unprecedented time in transit. There’s a lot going on,” Erin Moroz, director of community relations and communications for regional express rail at Metrolinx, said.

Much of the work is in the study phase and Metrolinx will go back out to communities with additional information as the process goes forward, she said.

“At this point, for regional express rail, there has been a commitment and there has been funding for certain parts of this project.

Electrification has been funded and it’s part of the plan and we’ve been told to go out, do your studies, see what needs to happen and then build it,” Moroz said.

“We’ve also been told we’re going to bring 15-minute service to core parts of the network and then we’re going to extend twoway, all-day service throughout the broader network. What do we need infrastructure-wise to do that? That is part of the study phase we’re in.”

Metrolinx has been told the work should be completed by 2024, she added.

Aurora resident Scott McBride, who takes the GO train to his job in the IT department of York University, welcomes the improved service on the horizon.

“When you look at other places in the world, they have these amazing subway systems and bus systems and the GTA doesn’t have anything integrated as one big service,” he said.

He’s particularly interested in how fares will be integrated.

auto service

From Front Page

A9

The Aurora Banner, Thursday, February 25, 2016

OPINION

Are we doing all we can to stop impaired driving?

D

o the media, the police, and the people, do enough to stop drunk driving?

Back when I was still a youngish reporter and the RIDE program (Reduced Impaired Driving Everyone) had been just a few years on the scene, many a small-town Ontario paper published the names of those who “blew over” in the new roadside checks.

Impaired?

Your name appeared in the local paper for all to read, bringing much shame and embarrassment.

Which seemed just dandy to a lot of people, at first. Finally we’re going to get some action on this scourge that is impaired operation of a motor vehicle — a bomb on wheels when under the control, just barely, of someone who’d been drinking.

Because people seemed, at the time, at least, to have had enough of drunk drivers killing innocent others.

They wanted to put a stop to it.

This was a way of getting people’s attention. Do a spot-check (controversial in itself at first, police stopping drivers at random, essentially without cause) and publish the names of those who’ve been charged.

As if the press and the police are all just a bunch of party-poopers and it’s just people who had a little too much fun one night and made a mistake.

Finally, people will wise up, get a designated driver, call a cab, sleep over, stay home.

That is, until a mayor or a police officer’s daughter’s boyfriend who was hoping to become a cop himself, or a doctor or lawyer or editor or real estate agent or principal or developer ended up stopped at a RIDE check on their

and made a mistake. And they are only charged, not convicted at this point.

And this could ruin their career, their reputation, their home life.

And sure, maybe they should have thought of that before driving drunk, but that’s the thing about being impaired: you’re impaired in your judgment, not just hand-eye co-ordination.

Bernie O’Neill way home from a bar or a Christmas party or a client social.

These people a) didn’t like seeing their names in print this way and b) had status and power.

And, slowly but surely, via angry phone calls and legal threats and other methods, pressure was exerted on many police forces to stop releasing the names and on publishers to stop publishing them, if they could even still get them.

As if the press and the police are all just a bunch of partypoopers and it’s just people who had a little too much fun one night

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The result? For one thing, drunk driving continues, despite 30 years of RIDE spot-checks.

So, RIDE continued.

But, other than the inconvenience of losing a licence temporarily or paying a fine, those who drove drunk didn’t face consequences that were that serious.

In other words, in many cases only they would ever know what happened. No one else.

The result? For one thing, drunk driving continues, despite 30 years

of RIDE spot-checks.

Hey, we’re going to start selling more booze in grocery stores and legalize pot! It’s all about convenience, not control (the LC in LCBO being for Liquor Control).

Meanwhile, not many police forces routinely put out the names of people accused and/or convicted of impaired driving.

And you don’t hear the public calling for it, because, why?

Because, sadly, at least slight impairment while driving is still socially acceptable. Incredibly.

Says a lot about us. Fun comes first. Just don’t get caught.

The only time we read the names, it seems, is when an impaired driver gets into a crash and kills someone else.

Then we learn more about them than we ever wanted to.

And of course by then it’s too late.

— Bernie O’Neill is an awardwinning columnist and editor of the Markham Economist & Sun newspaper.

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A10

The Aurora Banner, Thursday, February 25, 2016

JUSTICE

Muzzo unlikely to reoffend, defence lawyer tells court Crown seeks 10- to 12-year sentence for crash that killed 3 children, their grandfather; defence seeks 8 years

From Front Page

prison. It argues Muzzo acted with “extreme selfishness” by driving with a blood alcohol concentration that was nearly three times the legal limit. It led to a “tragedy of incomprehensible scope that could have been avoided”, if Muzzo had taken a taxi or another method of transportation home that day.

The Crown noted how the Neville-Lake household, once filled

w RegisteR NO

with laughter and dancing, is now full of “roaring silence”.

“Mr. Muzzo must be held accountable for his actions,” Crown attorney Paul Tate said.

“The need for deterrence is paramount. The precedent value of this decision will be significant.

Impaired driving causes more deaths than any other offence.”

While Muzzo appears remorseful, failure to provide a “fit” sentence would “tear at the fabric of a just, orderly, peaceful society”.

Tate also argued the increasing number of impaired driving charges in York Region can be a factor used to determine a sentence.

Muzzo’s lawyer, Brian Greenspan, disagreed.

The number of charges laid could be the result of better enforcement, he said.

“It’s difficult to compare tragedy to tragedy, catastrophe to catastrophe,” he said. “Statistics are difficult to interpret. (Muzzo) did not perceive himself as being drunk.

(He’s unlikely) to reoffend.”

Greenspan read from more than 90 letters of support for Muzzo from friends, neighbours and coworkers.

He described Muzzo as “always there for those who are in need” and says he “understands what he has done”. Muzzo’s decision to plead guilty and unobstruct the justice system is “virtually unprecedented”, Greenspan said.

He also painted a picture of Muzzo as a broken but “kindheart-

ed, gracious” man who has been misrepresented in the media.

The defence is seeking a sentence of eight years in prison, less time served. This comes a day after heart-wrenching testimony from Jennifer Neville-Lake.

“I want my kids back. I want my life back. I want to be a mom again,” she said, during the final of 14 victim impact statements read by family and friends to Muzzo.

The sentencing is scheduled for March 29.

Keep Mavrinac land: resident

FOR

MaRch p M a c BReaORkages 5-15

The surrounding parks, contrary to the consultants’ findings, are not within walking distance for toddlers, small children or people who are not at their prime physical fitness in the neighbourhood, she said.

There are three main reasons to reject the recommendations in the draft master plan, Khouri said, arguing the consultant’s conclusion that the area is over serviced when it comes to parkland is false, the expert research or investigative work is lacking pertaining to the land and the draft master plan doesn’t honour the history of the property.

“This has been a long road for many residents,” she said. “The Mavrinac land remains unused, untouched and closed off to residents as it has for the better part of a decade.”

The piece of land the town fought for is viewed as an avenue for revenue and an afterthought to the consultants who were not involved in any of the land acquisition process, she argued.

“We are in your hands,” she told council.

“There’s no more litigation, no more contract, no threat of OMB proceedings and there is no contingency we need to wait on.

We are pleading with you now: please do not sell this to a developer.”

A staff report and discussion regarding the property is on the agenda for the March 1 general committee meeting at town hall beginning at 7 p.m.

By Teresa Latchford

tlatchford@yrmg.com

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One Aurora resident challenges a consultant’s claim that the Mavrinac Boulevard area is over serviced when it comes to parks and recreation space.

Local resident Nahla Khouri spoke at town hall during a committee meeting to voice her opposition to the draft parks and recreation master plan, specifically the segment dealing with the town-owned Mavrinac Boulevard land.

She asked council to reject the master plan as it pertains to the land the town purchased for $2.47-million after battling with a developer, saying she spoke for herself and her neighbours in the area.

Earlier this year, planning consultants from Monteith Brown suggested council consider other uses for the property, as the area has enough green space.

“There are 30 playgrounds west of Bayview and three east of Bayview, that’s a 10:1 ratio,” Khouri said. “Yet the consultants still maintain we are over serviced. Council, it just defies logic.”

Another skateboard park or splash pad would be redundant because the area already has those features.

“However, can anyone say there is a redundancy of trees?” she said. “Can anyone honestly say we are over serviced with park benches?”

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A11

The Aurora Banner, Thursday, February 25, 2016

federal issues

York leaders head to Ottawa for cash request

BY LISA QUEEN

lqueen@yrmg.com

As part of the first trip of its kind to Parliament Hill for York Region leaders, politicians will meet with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Thursday to lobby for funding for a number of regional projects.

“This is a big deal for York Region. This is a great opportunity for us to (meet) face-to-face with those in the federal government who are making the decisions,” regional chair Wayne Emmerson, who is leading the contingent, said.

“I know we’ll get results. I’m confident.”

In addition to Emmerson, the group includes mayors Virginia Hackson, Margaret Quirk, Tony Van Bynen, Geoff Dawe, Justin Altmann, Frank Scarpitti, and regional councillors Jack Heath, Joe Li, Nirmala Armstrong, Brenda Hogg, regional CAO Bruce Macgregor, director of government relations and executive assistant to the chair Lina Bigioni and Greg Stasyna, program manager of training, exercise and public education.

Vaughan and King Township are not sending representatives.

The group left by bus Wednesday at noon and is expected to arrive back late Thursday night.

The cost for the bus is $1,000 and 15 hotel rooms at $169 a night each comes to $2,535.

In addition to seeing Trudeau, the contingent is meeting with York MPs and officials from a number of federal departments including finance, environment and climate change, infrastructure, innovation and science and economic development.

The trip marks the first time York has sent a group of leaders together to promote the region’s infrastructure priorities and seek funding from the federal government, Emmerson said.

York politicians and officials are arguing for the need for more federal dollars to help the region keep up with its tremendous growth, he said.

The region now has a population of more than 1.1 million, which will grow to 1.8 million by 2041.

The region has many shovelready and shovel-worthy projects ready to go that would improve residents’ quality of life while creating jobs and protecting the environment, Emmerson said.

The group will lobby for: • Extending the Yonge Street subway north from Finch Avenue

STAFF PHOTO/STEVE SOMERVILLE

York leaders boarded a bus yesterday headed for the nation’s capital to meet with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in hopes of garnering funds for key projects. to Richmond Hill’s Langstaff urban growth centre, which would help remove many of the 2,400 buses serving the route every day; 4Completing the final four Viva rapidway segments, including along Yonge from Richmond Hill to Newmarket, east from Unionville station to Cornell, along Hwy. 7 west from Islington Avenue to Hwy. 50 and at Yonge Street and Green Lane; 4Commitments for long-term investments in affordable housing

and developing a national housing strategy; 4Funding for the Upper York Sewage System, needed to accommodate growth in East Gwillimbury, Newmarket and Aurora until 2031; and 4Supporting public sector broadband initiatives throughout the region, which suffers from areas lacking broadband connectivity.

While York politicians aren’t expecting to get a firm commit-

ment for federal funding, the trip is about raising the region’s profile as the government delivers on its policies, including the March 22 budget, Emmerson said.

The trip will help the region build partnerships with Ottawa, Hogg said.

“York Region needs a significant investment in transit infrastructure and we are in competition with larger municipalities across Canada,” she said.

“We are looking to pay respect, make personal business connections and advance the infrastructure investment needs of our region. One road, one bridge, one subway at a time.”

Hogg is also meeting with the CEO of the Canadian Federation of Municipalities, Brock Carlton.

“It is an opportunity to work on our relationship with the federal government, always a good thing, and to promote some of the infrastructure projects that will benefit our region, such as the UYSS, the expansion of GO and changes to the road grid,” Dawe said.

“These are all extremely expensive projects and our goal would be to get greater federal commitment to some, if not all, of these projects.”

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The perfect home office Learn how to be more productive while working from home.

Janice

Clements Linda from Aurora writes, “I have just begun working from home and am not sure I’m working as productively as when I was in a corporate setting. Do you have any suggestions on setting up my office so I can work properly?”

Well Linda, take it from someone whose family operates not one, but two businesses from home — it’s important to establish work Versus home zones and regular hours. Don’t procrastinate when it’s often more appealing to clean the kitchen than head to your office.

It’s important to identify what distracts you and create a workspace that helps you avoid those things.

While reducing clutter and being organized are important, establishing a zone where home activities do not take over the office space is crucial. Working effectively is an individual thing — some people require silence to be effective while others can concentrate despite extraneous noises. Create an office space where you can close a door so you won’t be disturbed or have access to noise if you need it.

I prefer to avoid creating an office in a bedroom because work and sleep don’t mix. If your home is small and the only place to work is the bedroom, you may have to create a multi-functional space.

Depending on what type of work you do, you can certainly change up work locations when you’re feeling antsy, but it’s important to define spaces in your home that will not be overtaken with work papers and files.

If your office is a space without a window, install effective, task-oriented lighting that will provide you with enough light to do your work and not fall asleep.

If your laptop serves as your primary workspace, there’s nothing wrong with changing locations to work — in fact, it’s one of the perks of working at home. Consider a transitional and less formal “office” where you follow the light around your home in the interest of remaining alert. During the spring and summer months, do some of your work on a

porch where the lighting is good, the air is fresh and maybe even a little cooler. This is perfect for those with short attention spans. There’s nothing worse than feeling like your office is becoming a prison to which you’re endlessly tied.

It’s important to want to be in your office space.

If you don’t enjoy being there, you likely won’t get any work done. It should be comfortable while still being a professional place to hold meetings, if need be.

It may be tempting to purchase a really comfy chair to use on a regular basis, but remember if it’s too comfy, it may be too relaxing to work effectively.

If you have lots of space to work with, ensure there is ample storage and avoid cluttering the office with too much seating. While they may look pretty, too many chairs can monopolize important office real estate that could be used for storage or additional work surfaces. Have a chair for each person who regularly works in the office and one additional for anyone who might drop by. If you find yourself in a position where you occasionally need more seating, invest in some good quality folding chairs that are easy to store away when not in use.

Consider creating a desk from a sleek-looking and inexpensive counter material and furniture legs that can be purchased from the likes of IKEA or big box stores. Should you find you’re lacking storage, opt to support the desk surface with filing cabinets or taller storage cabinets to make the workspace multifunctional.

Paint the walls of your office a colour (or colours) that energize you and help you stay alert. Colours like green and cool blues can be very conducive to reading and writing. They also encourage focus.

Decorate your workspace with artwork you love and know that while it can be, it’s not necessary that the art be work-related. Artwork is meant to enhance the space and your life, so make sure to display accessories and art you enjoy looking at. More than in a corporate space, a home office provides you with the opportunity to infuse your personality and preferences into your surroundings, so make it your own and you will want to be there to enjoy getting work done.

Make sure the temperature in your office is to your liking. It can be very difficult to be productive if you’re shivering or sweating buckets!

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‘Groomed’, then gone Heartbroken parents warn of how son lured away

By Kim Zarzour kzarzour@yrmg.com

M

ark Banin* takes a deep breath and begins to recount his family’s strange, sad story.

Beside him, his wife, Christine, fills in the gaps and occasionally blinks back tears.

Later, Jake’s two brothers and sister join and they talk about what happened, hoping that by sharing, they’ll get answers or at the very least, stop this from happening to someone else.

It started last April when they noticed changes in Jake’s behaviour.

A sociable 17-year-old, Jake was open with his family about his friends and the girls he liked; his classmates visited and he was involved in school activities.

Recently, though, the home environment turned stormy. His parents fought about his younger brother smoking pot. They had also decided to move to northern York Region.

Could that have precipitated what happened next?

Jake came home from school one day, enthused about a cool guy named Chas another boy had introduced him to who had lots of money, a boat, hunting and pilot licences, knew all about cars, remote-control toys and digital technology.

They later learned the new friend was 42.

Jake began spending more and more time with Chas and another boy, Anton, 16, who, Jake told them, was Chas’ adopted son.

“We thought, ‘Nothing wrong with that, but weird’,” Mark says.

Chas chauffeured the boys everywhere and gave Jake expensive gifts, even the keys to drive his Mercedes.

He let him use his marijuana and shisha, Jake told his brothers, and he’d brought him to see some “old guys”, in a private club, who knew magic and thought he had an “aura”.

Be careful, they warned.

Jake shrugged off their concerns.

He was seldom home anymore and was

i

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increasingly serious and secretive.

Every day, Chas picked him up for lunch and again after school, not returning home until 10 p.m. On weekends, they’d be together until 10 p.m. Sunday night.

His family urged him to stay home more.

“We cried, we worried, we asked, we begged, we yelled, but nothing helped,” Mark recalls.

In July, the night before Jake turned 18, the Banins planned a birthday dinner. Jake insisted his new friends Chas and Anton also come.

They agreed it would be good to meet him.

Chas arrived with gifts for everyone.

Whatever they liked, the charming man said he liked, too.

“He had obviously done his research.

Nicknames, birth dates, hobbies,” his sister recalls. “Afterwards, we said, ‘I guess he’s OK’.”

Still, something wasn’t right; Jake, the class clown, was very quiet.

They learned about Anton’s online clothing business, geared to teen boys. Jake was going to model for him. Chas helped Anton with business, he said, because Anton had a sad life. His grandparents brought him to Canada and then died, leaving him an orphan.

Later in the evening, Chas told the boys it was time to go.

“Where are you going?” his sister asked, surprised at the abrupt end of the night.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be home, but remember… when I’m 18, I can do what I want,” Jake said.

PART TWO

The Banins scoured the Internet for whatever they could learn.

They discovered Anton’s parents were actually alive and well, living nearby. When confronted, Chas explained that Anton’s parents had given him guardianship.

In desperation, the Banins went to police but they were told there was nothing they could do. Jake was 18.

“OK, then I want to report something else,” Mark said. “This man lives with a boy who is 17 and lies about him being adopted.”

Police promised to investigate.

One afternoon, Chas drove Jake and Anton to the Richmond Hill home.

He sat in the Mercedes while the boys quickly packed Jake’s belongings and carried them to the car.

Christine tried to speak with her son, but he ignored her.

“Mark, please do something,” Christine cried.

“What can I do? If he wants to leave, we have to let him go.”

Overcome, Christine screamed and collapsed.

As Mark held her and Jake rushed her a glass of water, Chas entered.

“This is a private family matter,” Mark shouted. “Please, go.”

“You are holding an 18-year-old against his will,” Chas said. “Let him go.”

Christine dialed 911 and they all ended up at the police station.

The Banins waited there until 2 a.m., watching Anton leave the interrogation room with a tear-stained face, departing with his father.

Police told them Chas was being charged with respect to Anton, under laws that forbid someone in a position of trust or

Last week we interviewed experts in human trafficking and child exploitation about the grooming and luring of boys. Here is a condensed version of one family’s loss. For the full story, visit bit.ly/1XN40Ra authority touching a person under 18 for sexual purpose. He would be released pending the court date, forbidden from contacting either boy or their families.

Jake hugged his mom and promised to come home the next day. It was the last time they were with him.

A few days later, two detectives came to the Banins’ home to tell them the first court date was set for late July and it would be a long process.

“You will be surprised how much will come to surface and be revealed about Chas,” they said. “He did a classical grooming on Jake.”

Then the charges against Chas were mysteriously dropped. Three times the judge attempted to hear the case, and each time neither Chas nor Anton’s family appeared in court.

The Banins recently connected with other families whose boys developed relationships with Chas, all of them newcomers to Canada, all fearful of speaking out.

“The one rule in the company is you don’t disrespect Chas,” one dad told them.

“That is punished.”

Mark concedes they are taking a risk, speaking to media. In their new home, the room set aside for Jake is empty, save for his unpacked boxes. They refuse to give up, and they want other parents to know their story — and to trust their instincts. * Names have been changed.

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Your Region, Thursday, February 25, 2016

Police decision to release name, photo of accused man debated Commenters argue developmentally delayed man’s mental capacity relevant information

By Jeremy Grimaldi

jgrimaldi@yrmg.com

an account with the name Jenna Colangelo. “He is also a victim in this situation who needs help. Very unfortunate.”

However, not everyone saw it in this way. Others chose to admonish those advocating for the man.

One Facebook poster said: “He’s the reason I stopped taking the bus.”

A

debate is raging online about the ethics of releasing the name of a developmentally delayed man charged in a sexual assault.

The discussion surrounds the case of a Markham man who, some say, has the mental capacity of a 14-year-old.

Friends and former classmates say the man is loving and sweet and often acts like a child, works at the local McDonald’s and will often randomly approach people and try to shake their hands or touch them or their belongings in a bid to get to know people.

His detractors, including York Regional Police, allege he sexually touched a 14-year-old girl on a bus Feb. 3 near Hwy. 7 and Town Centre Boulevard, and they argue he knew it was wrong.

Much of the conversation broke out over Facebook after police posted the man’s photograph, along with the allegations, but made no mention of his mental condition.

“Knowing him personally, I can confidently say he is a kind individual, with special needs,” said

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‘Under privacy legislation, we are not allowed to release personal medical information unless there are extenuating circumstances about why we might have to put the information in the public realm.’

She further criticized police for not having done something about him earlier, claiming she was a victim of his behaviour.

“A friend of mine and I, almost two years ago now, on two separate days in the same week, were approached by this guy on the YRT8 Kennedy NB towards Major Mac,” the Facebook post read. “In my case, he actually put his arm around me and then proceeded to touch himself in the corner of the bus. I was just over 18 at the time,

J N F K L I K R W N X D R E I

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Derek Tam and was told by YRPs SVU that I was inaccurate, that he had a mental handicap and that they had taken care of the situation. TWO YEARS LATER this comes out…”

Another commenter agreed, admonishing those defending the man.

“I love how people try to justify his innocence for being mentally disabled,” according to a post on an account with the name Seann Loughlin. “I would be sickened if I had a daughter who was abused in such a way to see people trying to argue his innocence because of a disability.”

In the accused’s case, police have taken the view that, despite his intellectual limitations, he does have the ability to tell right from wrong, according to investigators.

Other commenters believe

it’s the police’s responsibility to release the man’s condition to the public, considering people should be made aware that these are not cut and dry allegations of sexual assault.

“This write up and comments on it are disturbing,” the Colangelo account stated. “This (press release) does not tell the full story whatsoever — it blatantly leaves out that this individual has severe cognitive difficulties. I am in no way excusing the actions of the accused (if proven they are his) or deeming him not responsible, but I am calling out the misleading nature of this (press release), which is proven by the responses of fear it elicited in the comments above.

It is important to tell the public the whole story, not only so that fair judgments are made, but also in case anyone does encounter this young man.”

Her comments were further supported by a number of comments on the website.

“I am surprised it does not mention anywhere in the post that he is also mentally disabled,” wrote an account with the name Amber Elizabeth. “Even though what he (was charged in connection to) was very wrong, I feel that should be mentioned as well. As he likely did not mean to intentionally harm anyone.”

However, police said the service is governed by privacy laws and, therefore, is handcuffed as to which details it is able to release to the public.

“Under privacy legislation, we

are not allowed to release personal medical information unless there are extenuating circumstances about why we might have to put the information in the public realm,” Const. Andy Pattenden said.

Police feel justified in releasing the mans photograph, considering two other victims have come forward, Pattenden added.

‘Knowing him personally, I can confidently say he is a kind individual, with special needs. He is also a victim in this situation who needs help. Very unfortunate.’

The force’s corporate communications office always has extensive discussions about cases such as this one and, in this case, decided it would not have been right to not release the man’s image, Pattenden said.

Police would not comment about past cases involving allegations about the man or the victims who have come forward since the initial arrest.

Derek Tam, 27, of Markham, is charged with sexual assault, sexual interference and criminal harassment.

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Your Region, Thursday, February 25, 2016

Sanctuary wants to help dogs Learn how to avoid bad hires

BY TIM KELLY

tkelly@yrmg.com

A King City dog sanctuary is ready and willing to come to the rescue of 21 dogs facing the prospect of euthanasia.

Dog Tales Rescue and Sanctuary has publicly vowed to take care of the dogs, among 31 seized from a Tilbury, Ont., residence last October after police rescued them from an alleged dog-fighting ring. Three people were charged with animal cruelty and firearmrelated offences and the dogs were transferred to the care of the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) whwere they remain.

Three dogs have since been euthanized following a recommendation from two veterinarians. Seven other dogs are believed to be good candidates for rehabilitation but 21 of the canines are being recommended, on the advice of experts, for euthanasia.

The OSPCA has filed a court application, to be heard March 10, to have the 21 animals euthanized.

A group of protesters appeared outside the OSPCA office in Newmarket Saturday, demanding the society not euthanize the dogs.

And Dog Tales wants to take the animals off the OSPCA’s hands and rehabilitate them so the pitbull-like canines, once they are ready, can be adopted out of province.

“We have offered to take in all 21 of the dogs, do all of the vetting that they need, food, lodging, rehab, all at no cost to the OSPCA,” said Clare Forndran of Dog Tales.

She said Dog Tales had originally made an offer to the OSPCA to look after the dogs back in November, but didn’t hear back

i

To read the full story, visit yorkregion.com by following: bit.ly/1QdtG4e.

from the society at that time.

Forndran said in the past Dog Tales has taken on animals that have been involved in dog-fighting and has managed to rehabilitate them to the point they can be adopted out. She is confident they can do so again.

Forndran said an OSPCA spokesperson told her dog behaviourists were brought in from the United States to vet the dogs, and that, “it was their (expert) conclusion they could not be rehabilitated. They said it was in the best interests of the dogs and for public safety that all 21 dogs be euthanized.”

“We’re kind of known at Dog Tales for taking in dogs that are unadoptable. We’re not looking for the easy cases here. We’ve even taken in dogs that the OSPCA has deemed unadoptable. We’ve adopted them out to homes without incident. It’s not like we’re going to run out of time and patience. They could be here a year. There’s no rush,” said Forndran.

Alison Cross, director of marking and communications for the OSPCA, said even if she wanted to let Dog Tales have the 21 dogs, she couldn’t because the OSPCA does not have ownership of the animals.

“The OSPCA doesn’t legally own the dogs, they’re part of an investigation, they’re in our care, but we do not have the jurisdiction to relocate the animals,” said Cross.

She said it will be up to a justice of the peace who will rule on March 10 whether the dogs can be returned to their owners, the three people who face animal cruelty charges.

ON NOW AT THE BRICK!

BY LISA QUEEN

lqueen@yrmg.com

Hiring the wrong person can cost businesses big bucks.

York Region employers can learn how to avoid that pitfall by attending the Tomorrow’s Race for Talent conference in Markham next month.

They will learn key strategies on hiring, retaining and engaging their workforces, said Tina Stevens, project manager with the Workforce Planning Board of York Region and Bradford, West Gwillimbury, which is hosting the event.

Employees are a business’s greatest asset, but many small companies don’t have human resources departments trained in recruiting the best people, she said.

The average employer in York has 16 workers.

“Because York Region is predominately small business, which is not any different than the rest of Ontario, a lot of times, businesses are not at the stage where they can have dedicated HR departments. So, you often have executives who are wearing multiple hats — running their companies, out selling their goods and services and also hiring their employees,” she said.

“An unsuccessful hire can be very detrimental to a company because of the cost.

It can cost the company tens of thousands of dollars if it’s an unsuccessful hire. (For example), the person’s time to train that individual, the time it takes away from that executive when they could be out selling. Time is money in business today and if that person isn’t the right fit, it can interrupt productivity in the company, it can damage a company’s profile in the industry. It’s important to get the right person who matches your company culture.”

The free half-day conference offers employers workshops and information sessions aimed at teaching employers how to implement the integral pieces needed to make a right fit happen, Stevens said.

i

To register, visit wpboard.ca/elc/employer-conference/ tomorrows-race-for-talent. For more information, call the workforce planning board at 905-503-6611.

“Going back to the fact that employers today wear multiple hats, that old saying is you don’t know what you don’t know. There’s a lot of resources in the community that employers don’t necessarily know about,” she said.

The conference will feature a number of speakers, including Peter Aceto, president of Tangerine, who will discuss how everyone wins when “we” comes before “me,” and Peter Shurman, an expert on business and generational change, who will share ideas on how bridges can be built between boomers and millennials.

Funded by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, the workforce board is a non-profit organization that helps improve and co-ordinate community responses to labour force issues.

For example, in 2013, the board created the employer leadership council, which provides a forum for employers to discuss a variety of issues, such as concerns and best practices, training tools and free employment services and financial incentives available to employers.

The board has learned some of the challenges employers face such as finding highly qualified workers, the lack of skills among employees entering the workforce, the costs of recruiting workers, limitations with public transit services, challenges in retaining employees, shortages of skilled trades, lack of awareness of government programs and supports and barriers in hiring skilled newcomers to Canada.

The conference will be held March 4 from 8 a.m. to noon at Edward Village Markham (the former Delta Markham) at 50 East Valhalla Dr. in Markham, The event is free for York Region employers.

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Your Region, Thursday, February 25, 2016

sports

Whelan finding rhythm with Elite Canada title

BY JOHN CUDMORE

jcudmore@yrmg.com

Carmen Whelan may not yet be queen of the rhythmic gymnastics set in Canada.

But she certainly has a seat within the inner chamber.

The 17-year-old Aurora resident stated her case as a contender for the national title when she rallied on the final day of the three-day Elite Canada competition in Richmond, B.C. earlier this month, scoring winning marks for three of four apparatus to edge Toronto’s Katherine Uchida for the title. It was her first senior meet victory.

“I wasn’t expecting win at all,” said Whelan, who trains at Silhouettes of York in Newmarket. “I was going in hoping for a personal

best. It’s still the beginning of the year for seniors and everybody is working out the kinks. It just came all together for me. The stars aligned and all my hard work in the gym paid off.”

The Grade 12 student at Dr. G.W. Williams Secondary School in Aurora figures to be a target fellow Canadians will pursue through Gymnastics Canada assignments between now and national championships slated for Winnipeg in May. And with current Canadian champion Patricia Bezzoubenko nearing the end of her career following the Rio Olympics this summer, the door could be open for a new champion sooner than later.

Both athletes will compete in the Espoo Rhythmic Gymnastics World Cup event this weekend in

Espoo, Finland.

“It’s a little scary,” said Whelan, who competed at the Pan American Games in Toronto last summer. “When you get to first there’s all the glory but now everyone else is looking to catch you.”

Winning Elite Canada, however, is a boost to the youngster’s career and an experience that most of her domestic rivals can only imagine.

“It gives me a lot of confidence in realizing, ‘Hey, I can be the best in Canada,” and has opened my eyes to a new kind of pressure. I have to work harder but it’s nice to be up there and have people aim for you.”

Whelan will join the Canadian team for the Pacific Rim championships to be held in April in the United States.

MORE SPORTS ON

Jr. A Notes: Tigers take long shot at first in division; Hurricanes hope season continues Jets fly: Newmarket speed skating club hosts meet En garde: Newmarket Fencing Club’s McDonnell duels way to double-silver Big splash: Newmarket Stingrays’ Hanus golden at Eastern Canadian meet

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B6

Your Region, Thursday, February 25, 2016

sports

Forming bonds, development keys to summer Jr. A loop

T

he Ontario Junior Hockey League is going yearround.

The final touches are being put into place for a summer developmental program that will include several OJHL teams competing in a league running from May to July.

Though unconfirmed by league officials, league insiders say the program is intended to face off with several OJHL programs operating teams in a 12-game schedule with an operations model reflecting standards of their normal hockey programs.

The Newmarket Hurricanes and Aurora Tigers are both participants and would compete in a division with the Orangeville Flyers, North York Rangers and Stouffville Spirit, playing games out of the Scotiabank Pond Arena in Downsview.

Two other divisions would be located at rinks, likely in Burlington and Durham Region.

The intended focus will be on assessing young talent to help teams create a talent flow

for incoming players who often also are being courted by other junior leagues. The concept is also intended to provide an alternative to independent summer programs operating in the GTA. Teams will be permitted rosters of 18 players plus five affiliated players. The emphasis for the 2016 season is on players with birth dates in 1999 and 2000 with up to five players born in 2001 (three) and 1998 (two).

The package is expected to include a showcase weekend.

“I think it’s a good thing,” said Tigers’ general manager and head coach Thomas Milne. “You get to have your prospects in your own backyard and coach some kids you want not only this year but down the road. You get a chance to establish a connection with them rather than have them just go off to other leagues.”

The off-season is always a mad scramble for players and teams and the result is often missed opportunities on both sides. In a league where hometown faces

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“Sometimes we think the grass is greener elsewhere and miss kids right in our own backyard,” acknowledged Milne. “Because I believe the league is getting younger, it’s tough to pick kids in April and May. Now you get a whole summer to see them compete.”

The Stouffville Spirit were one of three teams, along with Whitby Fury and Cobourg Cougars, plus a team of prospects from all three,

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that participated in a pilot project last summer.

“I think it could really catch on,” said Spirit GM Ken Burrows. “You get to know players and it goes both ways. Maybe they won’t like you.”

Burrows hopes the added time to assess players will curtail player movement in the early part of the regular season.

“The big advantage for teams is there should not be as many mistakes in selecting players as in the past,” he said. “I think you won’t see the cuts in September and October.

League officials declined to comment on the program.

Former Tigers star hairy hit Former Aurora Tigers forward Dan Michalsky never had much success with attempts to rock a mustache.

A mullet on the other hand? No problem.

The Richmond Hill resident has been leading a charge of the mul-

i

To read the full column, visit yorkregion.com.

let brigade for the past few years, helping perpetuate the notion that nobody does mullets like hockey players.

March Mullet is what cookie dusters are to Movember, the world-wide trend in which men grow mustaches in November to create awareness for men’s cancers.

“I’ve never been able to grow a mustache so I asked my friends if I grew a mullet would they support me,” disclosed Michalsky, a forward with the Aurora Tigers during their 2007 Royal Bank Cup championships season during his three-year stint with the team. He later played two seasons for the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League.

As founder and executive director of March Mullet, Michalsky carries on the tradition in memory of a friend who struggled with addictions before passing away about a year and a half ago.

B7

Your Region, Thursday, February 25, 2016

sports

St. Max Mustangs lasso YRAA girls’ hockey title School

BY JOHN CUDMORE

jcudmore@yrmg.com

Saddle up, Mustangs. It’s on to OFSAA. The St. Maximilian Kolbe Mustangs rode a 2-1 overtime victory Tuesday afternoon to a series sweep of the Bill Crothers Colts in the York Region Athletic Association girls senior hockey championship series at Angus Glen Community Centre.

Katerina Dajia scored with 2:16 remaining in a 10-minute sudden death overtime period to lift the Mustangs to victory over their nemesis to reverse the outcome of the past two seasons’ championship series.

Crothers had defeated St. Max to claim the YRAA title the past two seasons.

St. Max, which finished first in the fiveteam YRAA league and posted a 10-0-2 record against York Region opponents this season, won the series opener one day earlier by a 2-0 count in Aurora.

“There’s a lot of sweetness going on there,” said Mustangs’ coach Kate Treacy, whose team is 12-1-3 overall. “It’s very exciting.”

The victory sends the Mustangs to the provincial triple-A championships in Stratford starting March 7.

The home-ice Colts actually took the lead in the second period when Sam Burton beat St. Max goaltender Kristen Caporusso.

“They work hard every shift and just work their butts off,” said Treacy. “It’s a very positive group that gets along very well. Being a varsity team that is huge.”

SPORTS

St. Maximilian Kolbe players celebrate their YRAA senior girls’ Tier 1 championship-winning overtime goal against Bill Crothers at Angus Glen Community Centre Tuesday.

STAFF PHOTO/NICK IWANYSHYN

St. Max tied the game midway through the third period on a Jayden Thompson tally.

The Colts finished third in league standings with a 2-3-3 record before upsetting secondplace Stouffville Spartans in the semifinals.

St. Max won a two-game total points series (3-1) against Markham Marauders to reach the final.

Junior Cru’ dribbles into final The Sacred Heart Crusaders will face the top-seeded Vaughan Voyageurs for boys junior Tier 1 honours when the YRAA championship night tips off today at Brother Andre Catholic High School in Markham.

The Crusaders bring a 10-1 combined regular season and playoff record into play

against the Voyageurs (11-0) in a contest scheduled to start at 5 p.m.

Sacred Heart advanced to the final with a 68-51 triumph over Thornlea Thunder, while Vaughan trounced the Richmond Green Rattlers, 85-62.

The four-game series of title games culminates with the triple-A final between Vaughan and Thornlea at 8 p.m.

Wipe out The YRAA girls volleyball championships are scheduled to be played tonight at Bill Crothers Secondary School in Unionville.

Originally scheduled to be played yesterday, the three-game slate was scrubbed due to weather and road conditions.

The tripleheader includes the girls senior Tier 1 title match between Bill Crothers Colts and Toronto District Christian School Falcons at 7 p.m.

In junior Tier 1 action, the St. Maximilian Kolbe Mustangs are scheduled to face St. Theresa Lisieux Lions at 4 p.m.

The senior Tier 2 final is scheduled for a 5:30 p.m. start and pits the Father Michael McGivney Magic against Markham Marauders.

Pryce is right for Buff State Taylor Pryce was named yesterday to the State University of New York Athletic Conference men’s hockey third all-star team.

The Newmarket resident and graduate of Cardinal Carter Catholic High School in Aurora lead the NCAA Division III Buffalo State Bengals in scoring with 30 points, including 15 goals, and a school-best record with a second place finish in the SUNYAC standings.

A junior, Pryce collected five goals and seven assists in the Bengals’ final seven games. His career totals for 76 games include 27 goals and 42 assists.

The Bengals are scheduled to host a semifinal playoff game on Saturday.

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Your Region, Thursday, Feb 25, 2016

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.POEBZ UP 'SJEBZ BN UP QN r r 5PMM 'SFF r 'BY r 'PS EFMJWFSZ RVFTUJPOT QMFBTF DPOUBDU Are you passionate about Customer Service?

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Wednesday March 2nd, 2016 - 9:00am to 8:00pm We require the following candidates:

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Interviews will be a "first come, first serve" process and only Bilingual (French/English) candidates will be interviewed Requirements: • Must be Bilingual (French/English) • Minimum 2 years Customer Service Experience • Call Centre experience an asset, but not a must • Professional attitude with excellent attendance record • Must have excellent computer skills (word, excel, lotus notes) • Excellent time management skills • Excellent communication and organizational skills and like working in a team environment • Flexible - Must be able to work shifts listed above We offer a competitive salary plus bonuses, full benefits and company paid RRSP plan. If you have any questions, or would like to send your resume to us before March 2nd, please email your resume in confidence to the Human Resources Department at: hr@miele.ca For more information see our website: www.miele.ca (careers tab)

WE REQUIRE

JOB POSTING JOB TITLE: Phone Verifier, Casual Part Time BUSINESS UNIT: Aurora, ON THE OPPORTUNITY: This position acts as the key liaison between the newspaper and the carrier force which delivers our product. From receipt of a customer/ circulation/corporate inquiry, the verification representative must take ownership of the inquiry to ensure the route is verified and results communicated to the appropriate parties.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES • Successfully conduct verification calls to ensure deadlines are consistently met • Handle a high volume of outbound calls per shift • Ensure that FDSA Policy & Procedures are met on a daily basis WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR • Experience with outbound phone calls an asset • Strong telephone presentation skills • Excellent verbal, written and listening skills • Strong computer skills • Solid organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multi-task • Ability to work in a fast-paced deadline oriented environment • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team environment If working for a highly energized, competitive team is your ideal environment, please email your resume to esmyth@yrmg.com by February 28, 2016.

Metroland is committed to accessibility in employment and to ensuring equal access to employment opportunities for candidates, including persons with disabilities. In compliance with AODA, Metroland will endeavour to provide reasonable accommodation to persons with disabilities in the recruitment process upon request. If you are selected for an interview and you require accommodation due to a disability during the recruitment process, please notify the hiring manager upon scheduling your interview.

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TSTECH is a Tier 1 automotive seating supplier located in Newmarket.

MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR 2015 ~ Newmarket Chamber of Commerce CONSTRUCTION FOREMAN Established General Contractor working in the ICI sector seeks a permanent, F/T, working foreman. Candidate with carpentry skills & experience is preferred. The successful candidate will be detail oriented with excellent communication skills. A min. of 5 yrs. experience is essential. Salary and benefit package commensurate with experience.

E-mail resume to: resume.foreman@gmail.com

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IS NOW HIRING FOR OUR MEAT DEPARTMENT We require full time and part time Meat Cutter and Clerks.

Some experience required Please email or Fax resume to: 905-473-9231 Matt.miller@sobeys.com

IT ANALYST TIER 2 The Ontario SPCA requires an IT 2nd level IT support. 2-3 years experience, post secondary education in IT related field, Citrix, and IT certification required. Go to www.ontariospca.ca for full job posting.

Send resume to: resumes@ospca.on.ca

with the right attitude and the drive to succeed.

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DENTAL RECEPTIONIST

Looking for a friendly dependable person with great communication skills for a Permanent part time position (some full time) in a great office!

Level 2 assisting background preferred.

Our office is located in north Aurora.

Visit us at www.orchardheightsdental.ca Email resume/ cover letter in confidence: rkatz@orchardheightsdental.ca

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Contact Linda @ 1-877-717-6744 or snapdragons@rogers.com

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Bell Financial in Aurora, a successful, dynamic financial services firm, is looking for a permanent employee, full time or part time, to assist with

Life Insurance and Investment Administration

The ideal candidate:

•has relevant experience in Financial Services •holds an FLMI designation or is willing to work towards one •possesses excellent customer service and organizational skills •has a positive, optimistic outlook and strong desire to help people •thrives in a dynamic team environment We place a high value on the customer experience that has become our brand and are looking for that person who can fit seamlessly into our team.

This is an excellent opportunity for the right person.

Please send your resume to mail@bellfinancial.ca or fax to 905-713-2937 Only successful applicants will be contacted.

www.yorkregion.com

B9

Your Region, Thursday, Feb 25, 2016

Classifieds

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COFFEE TRUCK DRIVER WANTED Route and truck based in Aurora, $14/h to start, full or preferred parttime Mon-Fri 6am-6pm

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Career Marketing Opportunity

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Positions are available in our MAINTENANCE, PLANTING and CONSTRUCTION divisions We offer horticultural education assistance, on site training, competitive wages, benefits, RRSP's and company uniforms.

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Established, International Marketing Company has an opening for a young person interested in a Professional Sales Career.

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OFFICE ASSISTANT WANTED

Part Time Evening Reception Admin Coordinator Position

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Someone who is good with their hands to assist in the radiator repair shop.

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Apply in person to York Spring and Radiator Service 60 Industrial Parkway North Aurora

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ife stories L Only those selected will be contacted

RADIO COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING REPS NEEDED

for growing dental offices in the Georgina area.

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Local kitchen manufacturer req's experienced KITCHEN INSTALLER with min. 5yrs. exp.

Please apply in person Georgina Kitchens 24077 Hwy#48, Sutton or email: chrissing22@outlook.com

Key North Productions in Newmarket is expanding our sales force for 2016.

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A celebration of lives well lived and people well loved Read more Life Stories on yorkregion.com

Danielle Lankin was ‘sparkle in your eye’

BY SIMON MARTIN

T

smartin@yrmg.com

he true character of a person is often revealed not during good times but how she reacts to adversity.

It’s hard to think of a more difficult situation than the one 20-year-old Mount Albert native Danielle Lankin found herself in in 2013.

It started with headaches.

She thought nothing of it but, after awhile, her mom, Deborah, insisted she be checked out by a doctor.

‘I thought, ‘This is crazy.�

She had been 100 per cent.

Perfectly healthy.’ “I thought, ‘This is crazy,’�

Deborah said. “She had been 100 per cent, perfectly healthy.�

The news from Southlake Regional Health Centre was not good — Danielle had a brain tumour the size of a fist.

Danielle was diagnosed with brain cancer after having the large mass removed. The surgery damaged her cognitive skills and left her paralysed on her right side. She started aggressive treatments of chemotherapy and radiation.

The easy thing would have been to wallow in self-pity but Danielle was determined, instead, to live life to the fullest. “She held strong right to the end,� Deborah said. “Her world had crashed down but she still had good spirit and could laugh and joke.�

Lstories ife

Danielle would go in to schools in the York Region District School Board and local colleges and share her story about fighting brain cancer.

Danielle grew up in Mount Albert and attended Mount Albert Public School and Huron Heights Secondary School. She had just started studying nursing at Georgian College when she was diagnosed. “She would have graduated from Georgian this year,� Deborah said.

Danielle chose to go into nursing because she always wanted to work with people and loved science in school. “She would have made a fabulous nurse,� Deborah said.

The response from the community eclipsed anything her family could have imagined. They blew past their original goal of $25,000 and raised more than $40,000.

With the help of her family, Danielle fought her disease with courage.

The family rallied around her and supported her as best they could. Danielle’s older sister, Jaime Lynn, started a fundraising page on gofundeme.com in 2014 to raise money to support her medical care and quality of life.

The Lankins wanted to install a ramp and lift in their house, so they could move Danielle with greater ease.

ERA FILE PHOTO

Danielle Lankin’s friends and family held a Journey Against Brain Cancer - Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser in May 2013.

Here, Danielle is surrounded by her loving family, mom, Deb and sisters, Lindsay (left) and Jaime Lynn. To read the story, follow: bit.ly/1RYWVwp The response from the community eclipsed anything her family could have imagined. They blew past their original goal of $25,000 and raised more than $40,000.

Danielle was able to go to Florida, Whistler and Vancouver in her final year.

Celebrate a life well lived!

“Adored by children, universally respected and an inspiration to her peers, Mrs. McCluskey was a tireless volunteer, quick to deflect the praise heaped on her.�

She fought her disease with amazing courage but eventually succumbed to cancer in January 2015. She was 21.

Last month, Deborah and Danielle’s sisters, Jamie Lynn and Lindsay set off luminaires in her memory.

Danielle’s legacy lives on even Your community newspaper is celebrating the achievements and contributions of everyday, ordinary people, who have affected the lives of others in extraordinary ways. Leaving a lasting impression on the community, our award-winning journalists will write a fitting tribute in memory of those who have a special story to share.

Through your community newspaper and LifeNews.ca, we celebrate those no longer with us and remember the memories we share.

after she passed away. She donated her eyes, which are being used by a 32-year-old and an eight-year-old.

Deborah was at Sunnybrook recently and Danielle’s radiologist still had the funky socks Danielle gave him. “She will truly be missed. She was the highlight and sparkle in your eye,� Deborah said.

FOR MORE INFORMATION or to contact one of our professional writers please call

Newmarket/Aurora EG Tracy Kibble ..................905-853-8888 Georgina & Bradford Ted McFadden .............905-853-8888 Markham, Bernie O’Neill ...............905-294-2200 Stouffville Jim Mason ....................905-640-2612 Vaughan & King PaulChampion Futhey...................905-264-8703 Kim Richmond Hill/Thornhill Marney Beck ................905-294-2200

B10

Your Region, Thursday, Feb 25, 2016

Classifieds

Lifenews.ca

.POEBZ UP 'SJEBZ BN UP QN r r 5PMM 'SFF r 'BY r 'PS EFMJWFSZ RVFTUJPOT QMFBTF DPOUBDU NEELY, Alf Born November 30, 1921 in Dungiven, Northern Ireland and passed away February 17, 2016 at Southlake Hospital in his 95th year. Beloved husband of the late Ada, loving father of Bunny (Fred) Wright and Susan (Doug) McFarlane, much loved Grampa of Jody, Steve and Jeff Wright and Shaun and Cory Seaton.

Proud great grandfather of eight and great, great grandfather of one.

Brother of the late Herb, Harold, Jim, Jack, Cecil, Peggy and Kenneth. He will be sorely missed especially by long-time friends Bill Mitchell and Alan Greenwood.

Alf was a W.W.II Veteran and served overseas with the Canadian Irish Regiment, a life time member of the Newmarket Legion, retired Newmarket Arenas Manager, avid bowler, golfer and all around handyman, but his lifelong passion was hockey which he played until he was 80.

Friends called at the Roadhouse & Rose Funeral Home, 157 Main Street South, Newmarket on Sunday February 21, 2016 from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. with a Royal Canadian Legion service beginning at 6:30 p.m. A funeral service took place in the chapel on Monday February 22, 2016 at 2 p.m. followed by a reception at the Newmarket Legion, 707 Srigley Street, Newmarket.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Legion Poppy Fund. Online condolences at www.roadhouseandrose.com

NODDLE, James Richard Passed away peacefully on February 24th at Southlake Regional Health Centre, at 101 years young. James was still sharp, possessed a positive outlook on life and was always concerned for those less fortunate than himself.

A W o r l d Wa r I I v e t e r a n s e r v i n g i n Sicily, Italy, France and the European Campaign.

James is predeceased by his wife Christine, son James and 10 siblings.

He is remembered by son Norman (Bev), grandchildren Dave (Nancy), Kathy, Jennifer (Andy) and Kelly, and great-grandchildren Bradley, Jessica, M e g h a n , Ta y l o r, Te a g a n , K e i t h , a n d Kris. Lovingly remembered as “Pappy� to all his family.

A special thank you to the Alexander Muir Residence staff, (especially Robin) for all the years of support and care.

Visitation will be held at Taylor Funeral Home, 524 Davis Drive ( 9 0 5 - 8 9 8 - 2 1 0 0 ) , o n S a t u r d a y, February 27th, at 1p.m. A Service will follow in the chapel at 2:30 p.m.

Online condolences may be left at www.taylorfh.ca.

RUMBLE, (Kay) Kathleen Aves

Passed away peacefully with her family by her side in the early hours of Friday February 19, 2016 in her 85th year at Southlake Regional Health Centre in Newmarket.

Born in Swindon England on August 26, 1930, she immigrated to Canada with her family in 1946.

Cherished and loving wife of Raymond Rumble for 65 years. Loving and devoted mother of Nancy (Douglas) Koohtow, and David (Lynn) Rumble, and a loving grandmother to Matthew and Andrew Rumble. Survived by sister Mary (Russell) Burns and brother John (Marion) Luff. Predeceased by her parents Ernest and Kathleen Luff.

The family would like to thank the caring staff at Alexander Muir Retirement Residence, and especially the doctors and nurses at Southlake Hospital during her final days.

At her request, cremation has already taken place, and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations to an organization or charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be made at www.roadhouseandrose.com

Classifieds

KENNEDY, Douglas McPherson Peacefully at Southlake Regional Health Centre, Newmarket on Wednesday February 17, 2016 in his 75th year. Doug beloved husband of the late Dianne. Loving father of Clark and his fiancĂŠ Christina Hary, and Christine and her husband Tyson Heyn. Dear grandfather to Megan, Cole, Joshua, Carus, Caleb, Joy, and Harrison. Also survived by brothers Alex and Bob. Friends called at the Thompson Funeral Home on Tuesday February 23, 2016. A Service was held on Wednesday February 24, 2016 at 11am. Cremation.

Donations to Southlake Regional Health Centre, Cancer Care Clinic or Habitat For Humanity would be appreciated by the family. On-line condolences may be left at www.thompsonfh-aurora.com

And another year, another candle.

Yep-He's officially 91!

February 24th, 2016

Formerly of Keswick P a s s e d a w a y o n W e d n e s d a y, February 17, 2016 in Newmarket in her 84th year. She leaves behind her loving husband Donald G. Smith of 63 years, her son Brian Smith, daughter Susan (George) Manson, grandson Chase Smith and granddaughter Elyse Smith.

As per Mary's wishes cremation has taken place.

ASH, Howard John Passed away peacefully at Southlake Regional Healthcare Centre in Newmarket on February 23rd, 2016 in his 84th year. Loving husband of Lois (deceased 2012). Beloved father of Rick & Jerry. Proud grandfather of Jeffrey, Brady, Annie & Tyler. Brother of Durene & Noel (both deceased).

Friends may call at the Roadhouse & Rose Funeral Home, 157 Main St. S, Newmarket on Friday March 4th from 2 - 4pm. A private family funeral will follow.

.POEBZ UP 'SJEBZ BN UP QN r 5PMM 'SFF r 'BY 'PS EFMJWFSZ RVFTUJPOT QMFBTF DPOUBDU

All items must go!

In loving memory of

Love you forever, miss you every day.

Love your family and friends xo xo xo In loving memory of our beloved mother, wife, grandmother, and friend, Doni Barclay, who passed away February 28th, 2012.

You never really left us You are everywhere we are We look up to the heavens You are smiling from a star You are smiling from a sunbeam In our lives you are still apart.

You never really left us You live within our hearts.

Forever loved and forever in our hearts, Sherry, Kevin, Lew, & Grace.

Lucien L'Ecuyer

Happy Birthday to an amazing man, Love from all the family Happy 17 Birthday to th

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Cleaning/Janitorial

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Mortgages/Loans

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Home I m p rove m e n t Business

.POEBZ UP 'SJEBZ BN UP QN r r 5PMM 'SFF r 'BY 'PS EFMJWFSZ RVFTUJPOT QMFBTF DPOUBDU

www.capstonereno.com Home Renovations

To h i g h l i g h t yo u r

Directory

Thursday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm Sunday, 11am - 4pm

BUD AND STELLA SWITZER

Dorothy Viggiani

who passed away February 27, 1999.

She has been gone 17 years from our lives, but will never leave the hearts of those who loved her.

She is missed by his daughter, family and friends.

Home Improvement

5km N. of Hwy 89 on Yonge

Stella Goudie was literally swept off her feet by Bud Switzer when they met at Arthur Murray Dance Studio.

They celebrated their 65 th wedding Anniversary on Wednesday, February 24 th , 2016. Their 65 years of love, respect, devotion and kindness to each other is inspiring!

Much love, Leslie, Scott, Dana, Ryan and Paige

Darlene Preece

SMITH, Mary

Gifts, furniture, display units, some antiques.

Steeples Home Decor 6288 Yonge St. Churchill HAPPY 65 WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Lovingly remembered by Gerry Charron, your dad and brothers.

I miss you, Ger

RETIRING SALE

th

PREECE, Darlene In loving memory of a dear wife, daughter and sister who passed away February 28, 2014.

We talk of you often, We miss you.

March 30, 1962 - February 28, 2014

GarageSales

.POEBZ UP 'SJEBZ BN UP QN r r 5PMM 'SFF r 'BY 'PS EFMJWFSZ RVFTUJPOT QMFBTF DPOUBDU

I'll love you forever I'll like you for always As long as I'm living My baby you'll be -Robert Munsch Always sadly missed, Forever in our hearts Love, Mom, Dad, Natalie & Adrian

In Loving Memory of Doni Barclay February 28, 2012 One who possessed beauty without vanity, strength without insolence, courage without ferocity, and all the virtues of man without his vices.

You are forever in our hearts.

Love always, Sharon, Lyle, Kimberly, Kim & Peter.

Cole Andrew Lockie Aug 1, 1991 - Feb 28, 2013

Classifieds

Lifenews.ca

Michael Allan Conliffe

March 28, 1985 - February 28, 2002

Real Estate Misc./Services

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Antiques & Collectibles

Antiques & Collectibles

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Vern Strom 905-252-8376,itsadeal@hotmail.com Legals

Legals

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND OTHERS All claims against the Estate of WALTER MELVIN MONKMAN, late of the Town of Aurora, Province of Ontario, who died on September 15 th 2012, must be filed with the undersigned solicitor for the personal representative on or before March 21st, 2016; thereafter the assets of the Estate will be distributed having regard only to the claims then filed.

Dated this 12th day of February, 2016.

Damir Vrancic, Barrister and Solicitor 21 Wellington Street E., Aurora, On, L4G 1H4 NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND OTHERS All claims against the Estate of HENRICA (RIEK) GERRITS, late of the Town of Newmarket, Province of Ontario, who died on June 14, 2014, must be filed with the undersigned solicitor for the personal representative on or before March 21st, 2016; thereafter the assets of the Estate will be distributed having regard only to the claims then filed.

Dated this 12th day of February, 2016.

Damir Vrancic, Barrister and Solicitor 21 Wellington Street E., Aurora, On, L4G 1H4

B11

Your Region, Thursday, Feb 25, 2016

Classifieds

Gottarent.com

.POEBZ UP 'SJEBZ BN UP QN r r 5PMM 'SFF r 'BY r 'PS EFMJWFSZ RVFTUJPOT QMFBTF DPOUBDU Apartments for Rent

Apartments for Rent

AURORA VILLAGE CO-OP 2 bedroom garden home. $1212 inclusive. Available April 15th.

2 bedroom apartment. $1092 inclusive.

May 1st., Common area wi-fi and cable incl. For info:(905)841-7125. www.auroravillagecoop.com

BRADFORD, BRIGHT Main FLR- 1 Bed Apt open concept + 4 Pc Bath. Nicely UPDT. 1Parking space. Suit mature individual. Credit check required. All inclusive $825./month includes utilities, sat/internet. Call 905 775 6597 after 6 & leave message.

LORNE/EAGLE 1 bedroom , parking, l a u n d r y, c e n t r a l l o c a t i o n , s e p a r a t e entrance, front and back yard, Separate hydro.

Call 905-478-2325

NEWMARKET CENTRAL Bachelor , quiet building, close to hospital. Parking.

No dogs. $900 inclusive.

905-953-9683 BRADFORD 2 bedroom. Near all amenities.

Available immediately. $950 inclusive. No pets/ smoking.

Available March 1st.

905-251-6291 BRADFORD- LEGAL 1 bedroom basement, C/A, laundry, private entrance, parking. Non-smoking/ pets. Suits 1. First/ last. References. $925 includes heat/ hydro. April 1st Near amenities. (905)778-9016 BRADFORD- Newly renovated 3 bedroom upper, available immediately. No pets/ smoking. $1400,+60% utilities. 2 parking. Close to amenities.

Suits mature adults.

905-830-8007.

CENTRAL NEWMARKET Location, two bedrooms, two four piece baths, eat in kitchen, separate dinningroom, underground parking and more!

For more information call Kathy 905-252-9052.

Vehicles Wanted/Wrecking

Vehicles Wanted/Wrecking

SCRAP CARS CALL ME!!!

7 days a week!

Mini vans ~ Autos ~ Trucks Picked up.

Top scrap prices paid!!!

905-960-6621 $100-$10,000 Cash 4 Cars Dead or alive Same day Fast FREE Towing 416-831-7399

CASH PAID - $0-$2,500.

Scrap & repairable. Cars, trucks, trailers.

Will pick-up.

(905)775-4935.

Toll-free: 1-888-484-4887. Anytime.

WE BUY used and old cars. $300- $6000.

647-287-1704

Apartments for Rent

Apartments for Rent

NEWLY RENO upper floor, 3 bedrooms. All appliances, no Smoking, small pets. $1500.00 Utilities Included. Mature Adults.

Call 905-955-7479 or 905-955-7136 Newmarket - 1 bedroom + family room, newly renovated, very clean and bright, walk out basement w/separate entrance. Fridge, stove, laundry, A/C, parking. Non-smoking or pets. $950 plus utilities.

Call Terry 289-500-4321.

MAIN STREET Newmarket 1 bedroom basement with 1 parking space. $820+ utilities For information call after 6pm 905-939-7110 BRADFORD 3 bedroom upper, garage, 2 parking, laundry hook ups. no pets/smoking. $1400 inclusive. April 1st. Zima Crescent.

905-715-8588, 905-775-5788.

WALK OUT BASEMENT APARTMENT Separate entrance, $980, open concept, 2 rooms, laundry, kitchen, 50% hydro & gas, 2 parking.

416-824-0390 2 BEDROOM apartment, above garage.

Jacksons Point. New appliances, non-smoking, no pets $1200 inclusive (heat, hydro, cable, a/c, parking, internet).

Available June 1st 905-251-4594.

AURORA CENTRAL, 1 bedroom, $1100 inclusive.

AC, parking, laundry.

No smoking/ pets.

905-841-1060.

BRADFORD- 1 ( $850+ utilities) bedrooms, bright, clean, spacious, private entrance. Parking. No smoking/ no dogs.

Immediate. 416-751-3368 between 9am-5pm, BRADFORD- 3 bedroom upper, bright, clean, spacious, private entrance. Parking.

No smoking/ no dogs. $1150+ utilities.

Immediate. 416-751-3368 between 9am-5pm.

Announcements

Special Services

Houses for Sale

ERRAND SERVICE Do you need help?

Grocery Pick-up etc.? A ride somewhere? $15 per hour.

Call Angela 905-235-1539.

NEWMARKET- Hospital/ Leslie. 3 bedroom duplex, main floor, upgraded. NO PETS. Large yard. Parking. Close to schools.

Immediate. $1480+ hydro. 752 Greenfield Cres., Newmarket. 1-403-282-8800

NEWMARKET- QUIET building.

Water & heating included.

Large 1 bedroom apts. From $950.

Non-smoking 647-704-0220.

NEWMARKET- RENOVATED 1 bedroom apt. 2nd floor (stairs), separate entrance, access to yard. Non-smoker. No pets. $1000 inclusive. Available immediately.

905-868-0374 YONGE/BATSON Bright, newly renovated 1+1 bedroom basement, laundry, internet, private entrance 1 parking. $1,350 inclusive.

905-503-1569 YONGE/HWY#7, 1 Bedroom ground level apartment in newly renovated semi-detached house.

4 Appliances, parking, $1100 inclusive.

First/last. 905-881-4568.

YONGE/MULOCK 1 bedroom, basement apartment, brand new kitchen/bathroom.

Non smoking/pets. $825 inclusive.

Suits 1 person.

Call 905-836-1388

YONGE STREET/AURORA 2 bedroom, $1050/month, first and last with reference, no pets, pay own hydro.

Call 905-841-0576 or 905-727-9150 Rooms for Rent and Wanted

Rooms for Rent and Wanted

MT. ALBERT- Large room for rent on second floor, shared full bath, kitchen, WIFI, laundry included, satellite available, steps to bus stop. $570 inclusive.

First/last. 647-701-3209

Condos for Rent

Condos for Rent

NEWMARKET CONDO Freshly renovated, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms , 2 balcony's, u/ground parking and more.

No smoking/no pets, mature community,$1500.00 +hydro.

Lori 905-853-9649

Houses for Rent

Houses for Rent

NEWMARKET- BEAUTIFUL HOUSES 3 bedroom $1308. and 2 bedroom $1219.

VIP cable included for free the first month, utilities not included.

H.O.P.E. Co-op, family-oriented community, steps to amenities. NO SUBSIDY AVAILABLE. Visit www.hopecoop.ca for further info/to download application. Please ensure all required documentation is provided with application.

Viewings arranged for pre-qualified applicants only.

Move-in incentive for new move-ins!

Info: 905-853-0049.

DELUXE executive 3 bedroom home with 2 bedroom granny flat, 1 block from beach. $2400. Excellent deal! Still avail., Apr. 1st. 905-478-4590, 905-252-2624 NEWMARKET- 3 bedroom 2 storey upper, nice neighbourhood, huge deck, backyard, laundry, 2 parking, $1250+ utilities.

Close to school and shopping.

Immediately. 905-233-1186

Shared Accommodations

Cottages for Rent

Cottages for Rent

LAKEFRONT 3 BEDROOM PET FRIENDLY COTTAGE

(sleeps 6) available for weekly rentals June – Sept. or weekend rentals in May and Oct. Situated in Haliburton Highlands, with 4 piece bath, living/dining area, well equipped kitchen and attached screened-in Muskoka room. Well looked after grassy grounds on a gentle slope down to a 400 sq ft dock on a very peaceful NO MOTOR lake.

Great swimming, fishing, with 1 canoe, 3 kayaks, a peddalo, lifevests, fire-pit and games. Available from May thru. Oct. Please call Patrick 416-5644511 or email patrick@nemms.ca for rates, full photos and details.

Travel & Vacations

Travel & Vacations

REAL ESTATE. NW Montana.

Tungstenholdings.com 406-293-3714

Want to get your business noticed?

Shared Accommodations

AURORA-SOUTH. Henderson/ Yonge.

1 room in large townhouse.

Mature non-smoking male. All facilities. $530. 416-738-9887 NEWMARKET- BEDROOM, own bathroom in house for mature person. Shared kitchen and laundry. Non-smoking/ pets. $600. 1st/ last. Available immediately. 905-836-2298

Call

1-800-743-3353 to plan your advertising campaign today!

SUTTON- ROOM for rent, $650.

Includes WiFi, shared accommodation and parking spot. Close to #48. YRT at doorstep. 15 mins. to 404. On-site laundry. Immediate. 905-596-0115

Need To Place A Classified Ad? Call 1-800-743-3353

Houses for Sale

HOMESELLERS Find out what the homes around YOU sold for.

Free computerized list with pictures of area home sales and current listings.

Register at:

www.YourAreaReport.com Courtesy Diane Priest, Sales Rep, Re/Max Realtron Realty Inc. Brokerage.

Independently owned and operated.

416-274-4004 FREE HOME Buyer Workshop March 8th in Aurora Register:www.LoveNewmarket.com 905-235-4322 Houses for Sale

Houses for Sale

Engaged?

Recently married?

Let friends & family share in the details!

Domestic Help Wanted

Special Services

NEWMARKET LARGE, bright 1 bedroom basement, laundry, cable. No smoking. No pets. First and last. $950. Immediate.

416-450-7957

JESUS CHRIST IS LORD! GIVE GOD A CHANCE IN YOUR LIFE. READ THE HOLY BIBLE, THE MESSAGE OF GOD TO MAN. 416-459-8904

A FREE TOW for your scrap car or truck and cash paid.

(905)775-1018 or (905)836-2100

PART-TIME LIVE out Nanny required in Aurora for 2 girls, ages 12 and 14.

Must drive and swim.

Wages and hours negotiable.

416-560-6283.

Apartments for Rent

Announcements

WE PAY $325- $3000 for your scrap cars & trucks. 24/7/ Free towing. 705-500-2844 or 905-462-1346

Domestic Help Wanted

Apartments for Rent

New member of the family ?

Share the News!

Call 1-800-743-3353 to place your ad

Call 1-800-743-3353

local news • local events • local sports • local contests • local business your local newspapers online keeping you in the know in York Region your community in one place

B12

Your Region, Thursday, February 25, 2016

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100 AUTO VAUGHAN DR.

RICHMOND HILL

STOUFFVILLE RD / MAIN

HWY 400

ALTA NISSAN

MARTINGROVE

7625 MARTIN GROVE RD.

MAPLE NISSAN

ALTA NISSAN WOODBRIDGE

Limited time offer on select in stock vehicles only while supplies last. 2015 Nissan Sentra SV (C4RG55 AAOO) clear out special $14998 is plus taxes lic registration and insurance. The special is to be financed with NCF oac .Example shown $ 98 bi weekly for 84 months with $1973 down payment at 5.49% cob $2794. Terms may change depending on customer’s preferences. 2015 Altima 2.5SL tech (T4TG15 NVOO) purchase price is $24398 plus taxes lic registration and insurance and must be financed or leased through NCF. Lease special $169 semi-monthly for 60 months is plus taxes OAC with $0 down payment $0 security deposit with an ALR of 4.69% based on 20,000kms per year. Price excludes HST. See Alta group for complete details.

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