Thornhill Liberal East January 21 by Thornhill Liberal

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Thornhill’s Cat Adoption and Education Centre is holding its grand opening Feb. 23. But you don’t have to wait that long to adopt Odessa, seen here with adoption co-ordinator Jessica Zwarych.

Criminals targeting Vaughan in 2016 PAGE 3

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Residents have their say on plaza plans PAGE 18

STAFF PHOTO/NICK IWANYSHYN

Cat adoption centre gets set to purr Construction is now complete on Markham’s new Cat Adoption and Education Centre, located in the Thornhill Community Centre and Library. The official opening ceremony will take place Feb. 23. The “storefront” adoption and education centre model was approved by Markham city council in June.

It provides a solution towards reducing cat euthanasia rates in the region with the goal of facilitating more than 200 cat adoptions each year. The CAEC will also provide education services and awareness programs on animal care and wellness. Facilities in Welland and Niagara Falls have experienced great

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success with the similar storefront models. “With construction now complete, the new CAEC is the first of its kind in the GTA and the first cat adoption storefront in Ontario to be funded by a municipality,” Mayor Frank Scarpitti said in a media release. “We’re very proud of the new centre, and eager for the commu-

nity to learn more and participate in this unique initiative that will bring families and cats needing homes together.” The CAEC will house 17 cats on a regular basis in what the city says is a convenient, accessible location for adoption and education services. See ‘CENTRE’, page 5.

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The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016 |

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sions — one at 6:15 p.m., another at 7 p.m. — to discuss the sponsorship process and the regional Welcome Centre supports in York Region for refugees. All current and prospective sponsors are welcome to connect with agencies helping to settle newcomers arriving in the region. The Syrian Refugee Information Fair is Tuesday, Feb. 2, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Markham North Welcome Centre, 8400 Woodbine Ave. in Markham. To participate and learn more, register at YorkWelcome.ca/refugees — Jonalyn Aguilar

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Serious crimes spike in Vaughan By JEREMY GRIMALDI

jgrimaldi@yrmg.com

Vaughan is witnessing a violent introduction to 2016 — not to mention the last three months of 2015 — as crime continues to creep further into the city’s residential areas. Last Friday, a mother returned home with her three children to find a robber inside her home. He not only frightened her children — all under the age of three — but also assaulted her and stole the 33-year-old woman’s engagement ring off her finger. (See incident detailed on this page.) Also last week, another Vaughan resident came home to find a man inside his residence. The homeowner was punched in the face before the intruder fled. These incidents happened after a bank robbery by two young men at Weston and Rutherford roads, another in King and two armed gas station robberies. Unfortunately, there’s more. Between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31, 2015, there were a shocking 145 break and enters, which represents a 69-per-cent increase from the same three-month period in 2014, when there were 86 in the city. So far in January, there have been 44 break and enters. According to police, this is due to an overwhelming increase in the number of people working as organized units in York Region. In one particular group, police said there are about 100 people, some of whom are working their way through the deportation process. There might be some relief for Vaughan homeowners after the arrest of Lasha Shengelia and Roma Sibashvili, who are suspects in dozens of break-ins three days before Christmas. On Tuesday, another man, Wrayal Dacosta, from Toronto, who is a suspect in several daytime entries, was arrested at Weston and Langstaff roads. Sometimes, York Police Det. Sgt. Don Cardwell said he feels like he’s just “just putting out fires”, stamping out rises in crime for a spell before they reappear. This was the case in 2015, when Maurice Beckles was caught up in a major York police investigation, released and then caught up in another only months later. In response to the recent crime spike, police are contemplating a couple of initiatives. One involves potentially forming a fulltime team to deal with break and enters. The other initiative involves police meeting with Canada’s Border Services Agency members Friday. Discussions will centre around how to better deal with individuals committing crime while awaiting deportation. For now, police have said they are stepping up patrols in Vaughan and working with police from Richmond Hill and Markham on finding those groups or individuals responsible. Const. Andy Pattenden said a number of factors come into play, including this win-

|The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016

PUBLIC SAFETY

FILE PHOTO

York Regional Police responded to a home invasion in Vaughan last week, which was followed by an even more violent home invasion days later, during which a mother was beaten and robbed in front of her young children. ter’s warmer weather and a lack of snow, something robbers don’t like because snow captures their footprints. Criminals are noticing that residential entries are garnering more payoff than streetlevel robberies and present less risk and similar penalties in the courts, police said. Vaughan residents have also witnessed five warm-up thefts, in which thieves take cars that are warming up in people’s driveways. Since the New Year, five cars — including Porsches and Mercedes — have been stolen in this fashion, often being shipped in shipping containers to Africa to fill out orders within hours of the theft, police said. Const. Pattenden said police have taken a number of steps, including increasing residential patrols and releasing information to the pubic. “We’re just asking people to call us when they see suspicious activity,” he said. “In cases of break and enters, where we’ve seen an increase, we would devote more investigators working to solve those cases.” He said while he would not call this is a “new reality”, he admitted there is an increasing trend toward these sorts of crimes. “All south-end districts are sharing resources and trying to figure out who is doing this,” he added. “There are organized groups that we notice when arrests are made. They can be responsible for a lot of them.”

Vaughan home invader assaults woman in front of her 3 young children A woman was assaulted in front of her three young children after walking in on a home invader in Vaughan. The 33-year-old woman arrived home in the area of Weston Road, north of Rutherford Road, at about 2 p.m. Friday. She was with her children, who are all younger than three. The suspect was already inside the residence and assaulted the woman, taking her wedding and engagement rings off her finger before fleeing on foot. The woman was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The children were not physically injured. The suspect is described as white, in his mid-20s, about five-feet, 10-inches tall with a thin build. He was wearing a black mask, black hoodie and blue jeans.

Vaughan home targeted in daylight robbery Residents of a quiet Woodbridge neighbourhood, near the Kortright Centre, appear unfazed following a violent home invasion last Wednesday. York Regional Police were called to Via Avellino, in the Pine Valley Drive and Major

Mackenzie Drive area, shortly after 9 a.m. to investigate a report of two suspicious men, wearing masks, banging on the door of a home. Police say two men forced their way in through the front door, demanded cash and assaulted a male, who was inside the home at the time, before fleeing the area in a blue BMW. The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries in the attack and was taken to hospital, according to police.

Vaughan, King banks robbed The York Regional Police hold-up unit are seeking public assistance in identifying two suspects following two bank robberies in the Vaughan and King Township. On Jan. 14, shortly before 3 p.m., police were called to the area of Weston Road and Rutherford Road for a bank robbery. Two men entered the bank and passed the teller a note which contained a demand for cash. The note also indicated that the suspects were armed, but no weapons were seen. On Jan. 16, at 3:15 p.m., a similar bank robbery occurred in the area of King Road and Keele Street. A man entered the bank and passed the teller a note which contained a demand for cash. The teller complied with the demand and the suspect fled on foot. EW

The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016 |

THE CITY PAGE

MARKHAM CIVIC CE NTRE 101 TOWN CE NTRE BOULEVARD MARKHAM , ONTARIO L3R 9W3 905 - 477-5530 • MARKHAM .C A

City of Markham News & Announcements

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COUNCIL Markham Council, Standing Committee and several Advisory and Sub-Committee meetings take place at the Civic Centre and are open to the public. Monday, January 25 9 a.m. Development Services Meeting 1 p.m. Council CANCELLED: Tuesday, January 26 7 p.m. Development Services Public Meeting Contact the Clerk’s Office at 905.475.4744 for a complete listing of all meetings that residents are welcome to attend, meeting agendas and live audio streaming for Council and Standing Committees.

Visit markham.ca

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A source of adaptation, passion, ingenuity and creativity. An exhibition created by the Canadian Museum of History in partnership with J. Armand Bombardier Museum.

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GOODWILL NOTICE Effective January 18, 2016, Goodwill closed its GTA donation locations. Markham and Thornhill Recycling Depots will now accept new and gently used items during regular hours of operation. Items donated will go to the Salvation Army. In addition to regular hours, Thornhill Recycling Depot will open Sundays from 8 a.m - 4 p.m for Goodwill donations only. For more info and hours of operation, visit markham.ca

2016 INTERIM TAX BILLS The City of Markham’s 2016 Interim Tax Bills have been mailed. Markham offers five easy and convenient payment options: • Online through your bank. • In person at your bank • By mail or in person at the Markham Civic Centre • Pre-authorized tax payment Standard Tax Payment Due Dates: • Instalment #1 – February 5, 2016 • Instalment #2 – March 7, 2016 Your Interim Tax Bill is the first of two tax bills you will receive this year. Failure to receive a tax bill does not excuse the taxpayer from the responsibility of paying taxes nor the liability of any penalties or interest charged for late payment. If you did not receive your bill or if you have questions, contact Markham’s Tax Office. etax@markham.ca | markham.ca/etax | 905-477-5530

GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION Tuesday, February 23

Thornhill Community Centre and Library 7755 Bayview Avenue

Opening ceremony with Mayor and Council Members | 10:30 a.m. Free skating | Mascots and family activities | Refreshments | 6:00 p.m. markham.ca/animalservices

SARAH CALE: Instants passing

through the air I breathe ON YOUR MARK: F.H. Varley, Kate Wilson, Claire Scherzinger January 23 - May 8, 2016

Nominate an outstanding individual for the MACCA Community Appreciation Award.

Submission Deadline: February 5, 2016 Nominees must be of African/Caribbean heritage and have contributed to our community through their field of expertise in a way that brings honour to Markham and is recognizable beyond our community borders. To apply, call 905-946-9998, email maca1987@rogers.com or pick up a form at: Markham Civic Centre, 101 Town Centre Blvd., (Information Markham Desk)

Volunteers Needed! Community participation is a key part of building Markham’s future. Markham Boards/Committees provide advice to Council on their mandate. Get involved and play an active role in your community! Volunteer positions are currently available on the following Committees: • Advisory Committee on Accessibility • Achievement & Civic Recognition Committee • Flato Markham Theatre Advisory Committee • Historic Unionville Community Vision Committee • Main Street Markham Committee • RBC Markham-Milliken Children’s Festival Committee • Seniors’ Hall of Fame Committee NEW application deadline: January 31, 2016 For more information and applications visit markham.ca or the Clerk’s Office (101 Town Centre Boulevard, Markham).

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Image: Sarah Cale, Into Shards, Crude Stars (detail), 2015, adhered linen, oil and acrylic on canvas , 198.12 x 182.88 cm. Photo: Robert McNair

an Ontario government agency un organisme du gouvernement de l’Ontario

By Teresa Latchford

tlatchford@yrmg.com

Perseverance has paid off after the province announced this week it will lower hospital parking rates. York Region resident John Hazlewood — along with other local citizens at the Fair Hospital Parking Charges advocacy group — has advocated, since 2011, for lower parking fees, through meetings with officials, municipal councils and provincial legislators. Beginning Oct. 1, hospitals that charge more than $10 a day for parking must provide five-day, 10-day and 30-day passes that are 50-per-cent less than their daily rate, transferable between patients and caregivers, allow in-and-out privileges in a 24-hour period and valid for one year. “The ability to transfer parking passes between family members will go a long way toward helping families visit loved ones in hospital,” Hazlewood said. “We realize that a goal of zero parking charges is still a long way off, but we also realize the economic impact of this decision.” Not everyone is thrilled with the decision. Ontario Hospital Association chair Anthony Dale has indicated the change will create a $30-million shortfall of the $100 million collected through parking fees used to fund patient care, equipment and research, which are not funded by the province. However, Newmarket-Aurora MPP Chris Ballard points out some hospitals are expected to make more money, since visitors will be more likely to use the parking lots instead of

alternate parking venues and there will be no change in the daily fees collected. But he does admit there is a possibility that some hospitals may experience a drop in revenue. “Those who expect to experience a shortfall are being encouraged to work with their LHINs and monitor to see how it settles in the next two years,” Ballard said. “I don’t believe any of the facilities will fall short.” Markham Stouffville Hospital participated in the province’s consultations regarding parking fees and believes this move is a good one, said hospital president and CEO Jo-anne Marr. “We know, for some, the cost can be a burden and we have taken steps to address the issue,” she said. Currently, Markham Stouffville offers 30and 120-use parking passes that provide parking at an 80 to 87-per-cent discount. Depending on the pass purchased, users pay $3.17 or $2.16, per use, with the discounts. The next step will be to begin a review of creating five-day and 10-day passes. However, the hospital plans to maintain prices it currently offers even though it exceeds the discounts laid out by the province. In Ontario, 45 hospitals offer free parking, 54 charge $10 or less per day and 36 charge more than $10 per day. Richmond Hill’s Mackenzie Health charges $19.50 for a daily parking pass, $41.50 for a weekly pass and $84 for a monthly pass also with in-and-out privileges. The government is also directing hospitals not to raise daily parking rates for the next three years.

Centre hopes for 200 cat adoptions yearly From page 1.

All the cats will be in excellent health, spayed or neutered, have up-to-date vaccinations and will be ready for “on-the-spot” adoption, the city says. Currently, the closest adoption facility in York Region is the Newmarket branch of the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. “Markham’s innovative and holistic approach to the new CAEC, will also include pet education tools and children’s reading therapy programs,” Scarpitti added. “The children’s reading program, designed in conjunction with Markham’s library service, is a unique reading development program to enhance children’s reading skills through pets.” Other community programs planned for the CAEC will include anxiety therapy programs, a Junior Vets program and educational involvement with local schools including stu-

dents enrolled in Veterinary Technician Programs along with volunteering opportunities for Seniors’ and community groups. For those who have never taken in a pet, the centre will offer a variety of education and information tools about choosing the right pet for their family and the many aspects of animal care. “With the integrated experience the centre provides, the goal is for more local families to experience the joy of opening their homes to healthy, vaccinated and well-adjusted cats in need of a new “forever home”,” said Ward 1 Councillor Valerie Burke, an animal care committee member. The daily operation of the CAEC and care of cats will be managed by the OSPCA and trained volunteers under the direction of City of Markham staff. Since the CAEC is not an animal shelter, the intake of unwanted animals will continue to be offered by the OSPCA’s Newmarket shelter.

|The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016

Province pitching hospital parking relief

NOTICE OF STUDY COMMENCEMENT DON MILLS CHANNEL FLOOD REDUCTION MUNICIPAL CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT The City of Markham is undertaking an environmental assessment to determine the best means of reducing flooding along the Don Mills Channel. The study area is shown in the map below. The study will evaluate a range of alternatives to reduce flooding in the area.

Peter Kent’s Passport Clinic CF Promenade (Food Court) Sunday, February 7th Noon to 3:00 pm For further information, contact:-

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The study is being conducted in accordance with Schedule B of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process. This Notice of Study Commencement is being issued to notify the public of the project and invite comment. To further facilitate public input, two Public Meetings will be held as part of the study. A public meeting will be held in 2016, and will be advertised in local newspapers and on the City’s website. If you have any questions or comments, require further information, or wish to be added to the study mailing list, please contact one of the following Study Team members: Robert Grech, P.Eng., City Project Manager, City of Markham, 8100 Warden Ave., Markham, ON L6G 1B4 905-477-7000 ext. 2357 | rgrech@markham.ca Mr. Steve Hollingworth, P.Eng., Consultant Project Manager, The Municipal Infrastructure Group Ltd 8800 Dufferin Street, Suite 200, Vaughan, ON L4K 0C5 905.738.5700 ext. 359 | shollingworth@tmig.ca This notice issued January 21, 2016.

The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016 |

OPINION

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Danger could lurk with pesky masked marauder

Story, hijab campaign ‘commendable’

e may have a raccoon trying to get in the attic, warned my husband earlier this

week. That explains the loud expletive I heard from him in the bathroom one morning just at daylight, when he looked out the upstairs window and was surprised to see a large raccoon on our garage roof. Of course, seeing a raccoon in early morning or at dusk is no surprise to anyone in any of our communities in York Region, whether rural or urban. But against the backdrop of a higher than usual number of raccoons with rabies in the Hamilton area, the appearance of any masked garbage-can marauder is provoking more concern than usual. Especially for pet owners. We are part-time owners of two dogs. That is to say, when my daughter has a long shift at her job in Richmond Hill, and her partner is also at work all day, she sometimes brings their two dogs to our place for “dog sitting”. Between my husband, son and myself, there is usually someone at home to let them out and provide food and affection (in that order) while their real owners are making money to pay for dog food and other life essentials. But whenever I let them out into our back yard after dark, I am very wary. Especially if they start barking more than usual. If they should tangle with a raccoon — or the skunk my neighbour and I both smelled recently — there could be a real health risk to the dogs and to us of rabies. As of Jan. 6, 12 cases of rabies in raccoons have been found in the Hamilton area, despite the fact that through an impressive vaccine program, rabies had nearly been eradicated in Ontario. We all know that rabies is a deadly viral disease, spread by bites and saliva of an infected animal, commonly bats and lately, raccoons. And many of us know that rabies is most often transmit-

Marney Beck ted to humans through dogs or even cats who have had encounters with infected wildlife. But did you know there are two kinds of rabies: dumb rabies and furious rabies? The dumb form leads to wild animals being unusually friendly or less fearful of humans, and being depressed or hiding in isolated places (hopefully not in my roof). The furious variety makes the animal more excited or aggressive. So while we have no proof rabies is in York Region, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Ontario’s 36 public health units remind us it’s more important than ever to ensure our pets are vaccinated against rabies. Not only is it smart protection for your pets and for you, it’s the law. The other suggestions from the experts are harder to follow: “always supervise pets when outside in the yard, feed pets indoors and keep your distance from wildlife”. But how many of us open the back door to a fenced yard, as I do, to let pets out? When it’s dark, even when I turn on the back porch light, it’s extremely difficult to make out two black dogs and what they are or are not doing. My daughter now lives on a fenced acre of land in a rural area. I can only imagine how much higher the potential is for the two dogs to have an unfriendly meeting with a raccoon. Vaccinated though they are, I don’t think I’ll be welcoming their doggie licks and kisses as much the next time they visit.

Re: Lifting the veil on the hijab, Jan. 14. The bonding together of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamat’s Hira Muneeb and Hena Malik and The Liberal’s Kim Zarzour, has produced a fine commentary on the virtues of the hijab, its relevance to a Muslim woman’s religious obligation, the freedom of choice and the eradication of the myth that the hijab is a sign of an oppressed woman. To the contrary, and as has been rightly exemplified, the hijab signifies the chastity, state of virtue and morality of a pure and unblemished woman who, unlike their western counterparts, does not allow herself to be sexualized, exploited and tossed around like a sex toy to be abused physically and then left in the wilderness. Organizers and contributors to this very sensible, educational and poignant campaign need to be recognized and commended. I hope Zarzour’s bold and practical experiment to wear a hijab and stroll in public places will help to alleviate the fear with which Muslim women have been engulfed. They can proudly go around their various tasks in public and should feel even stronger in the choice they have made. So also will it be a catalyst for the general public to tolerate, respect and accept the choice their fellow Canadians have made. Organizers’ unique and innovative invitation to the public to learn about what it means to be a Muslim female and try on the hijab will go a long way in cementing relations with women of all communities. As well, it is winter and you do need a head covering, religious or not. Coincidentally, the Huffington Post reports that

“the Italian fashion house Dolce Gabbana designers have released its first collection of abayas and hijabs and Forbes has called it the company’s smartest move in years. A growing number of Western fashion brands, including Tommy Hillfiger, DKNY, and Mango, are realising that it is important to start catering to Muslim women”.

Raza Kara Richmond Hill

We must change our views on food Re: Queen’s makes food safety changes after Thornhill student’s death, Jan. 14. It is gratifying that Queen’s University is reviewing its food management policies in the wake of Andrea Mariano’s tragic death. Sadly, hers is not the first, nor will it likely be the last death due to food allergies in Canadian schools. Despite many precautions she and others — such as Maia Santarelli-Gallo, 12, who died in a Stoney Creek mall in 2013 — must take to protect their lives, such as communicating their disability to authorities, asking questions of every server and reading every label on every product, most people are ignorant of the fact that the number of children with food allergies has literally exploded in recent years. Last year, a study funded by the universities of Calgary and Waterloo found that 2.5 million Canadians are affected by a food allergy. That’s one in 13 Canadians. That figure does not include the rise of food intolerances, seasonal allergies, asthma, eczema and environmental allergies, related to compromised immune systems. What is causing this national tragedy? One thing I have learned since my oldest child was diagnosed with life-threatening allergies to peanuts and soy 11 years ago is that

SEND A LETTER: Email letters to mbeck@yrmg.com

the quality of foods we eat has declined steadily over the last 25 years, just in time to affect a new generation of parents. As we spout cliches such as ”buy local,” we have also stood by as small and medium-sized farms have been sacrificed to over development and agri-conglomerates, who have gleefully chemicalized fertilizers, GMO’d and sprayed us. While our food looks great, the real taste and nutrition of naturally grown and ripened fruits and vegetables has dwindled. Our children now look to pizza and chicken fingers as “fun” foods and we adults have been voluntarily led down the marketing path to believe these foods and added fake sugar in juice boxes are “nutritious”. Even milk contains added sugar, along with food colouring and, commonly, antibiotics and hormones. No wonder dairy is now one of the top 10 allergens. What can we do? First, let’s stop viewing school pizza lunches as a good thing. Let’s work together to re-introduce whole foods to our children. Let’s create welcoming classrooms for children with allergies by keeping chocolate bars with dairy and nuts at home. Let’s demand that food manufacturers list ALL ingredients in our foods and fight for more wholesome food. Otherwise, watch as more of our children and grandchildren develop signs of early-onset diabetes, obesity and heart disease. And allergies.

Peter Singh Deboran Thornh

By Simone Joseph

sjoseph@yrmg.com

How high should a proposed new Thornhill condo be? How much intensification, including new housing and businesses, is the right amount for an existing community? These issues were on the minds of residents gathered last week to discuss a proposed development project on the southwest corner of Yonge Street and Uplands Avenue in Thornhill, north of Clark Avenue and south of Hwy. 7. The owner is in the process of applying to the City of Vaughan to allow the development of midrise and lowrise residential buildings. The application has not yet been submitted. The open house last Thursday night was presented by Ryan Guetter, a vice president with urban design and consulting group Weston Consulting, and Clifford Korman, partner/architect with Kirkor Architects, to show residents in the area plans for the residential project. The name of the owner is Lemine Investments. Most residents gathered at Thornhill Public

School for the 7 p.m. open house were worried the proposed development, including a condo and townhouses, would ruin the character of the area. One resident pointed out that the Uplands neighbhourhood is a beautiful, upper-class area in Vaughan. “As a community, we have got to stand up. It’s a Forest Hill, a Rosedale,” said Andrew Baldwin. “It (the development) doesn’t match the community. It is very far off.” Guetter pointed out that the development could have a positive effect, since it will introduce mixed uses to the area — including retail, offices and townhouses, promoting the walkability of the area. The development would include a 12-storey condo with retail space, seven townhouses up to three storeys high and 248 parking spaces. Both Guetter and Korman emphasized that this was a design early in the development process. “This is the first step,” Korman said. When it was revealed the condo would be 12-storeys, residents’ reaction was swift and negative.

Deputy Mayor

ATH JACK HEhis invites you to th

17 Annual NEW YEAR’S LEVEE

“12? Geez,” said one resident. “It is incredibly high density for this area,” said another. “This density is ridiculous. It doesn’t fit into this area” and “Twelve storeys is too much,” complained other residents. “I have a $5-million home. My backyard would be the townhouses,” said another resident. When residents also expressed concerns about additional traffic in the area, Guetter responded that a traffic engineer would be doing an impact study. Dan Simile was not shy about expressing his opinion. “To the residents, it is a little bit of an insult. There is a lot of density for that amount

of space. You could do a lot more with less.” Ward 5 Councillor Alan Shefman attended the open house and shared concerns the proposal ignored planning documents Vaughan politicians had drawn up, including The Yonge Steeles Corridor Secondary Plan, which features an eight-storey limit for condos. The plan seeks to protect the Uplands area. “There is a history of applications in the city ... developers applying to significantly increase (height) over what the official plan says,” Shefman said. Shefman said he is interested to see how the property owner, urban planning and architect companies will respond to residents’ feedback.

|The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016

Thornhill residents call 12-storey condo project ‘ridiculous’

Sunday, Jan 24th 2016 2:00-4:00pm Markham Village Train Station (Hwy 48 North of Bullock/Parkway)

DURHAM YORK ENERGY CENTRE The Regional Municipalities of Durham and York have completed an energy-from-waste facility in the municipality of Clarington in Durham Region. This facility can process up to 140,000 tonnes of garbage per year. The waste combustion process produces steam to generate electricity that will be sold to the provincial grid as energy.

DURHAM YORK ENERGY CENTRE INFORMATION SESSION Thursday, February 4, 2016, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Durham York Energy Centre Visitor’s Centre 1835 Energy Drive, Municipality of Clarington, ON The session will include: •

Updates on the design, construction and operation of the Durham York Energy Centre, provided by Covanta Energy Corp.

•

Information on current waste diversion programs including Durham Region’s Integrated Waste Management Program and York Region’s SM4RT Living Waste Management Master Plan

If you require accommodation to participate in this session, please contact York Region at 1-866-665-6752 to advise of any specific requirements. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT www.durhamyorkwaste.ca or call 1-800-667-5671

The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016 |

Distracted For all your local news, go to yorkregion.com driving vigilante charged with impersonating police in Vaughan

Did you know this is household hazardous waste? When no longer needed, cosmetics become household hazardous waste.

Household hazardous waste does not belong in the garbage, in your blue box or down the drain. It should be brought to a depot location where it will be disposed of safely.

Space provided through a partnership between industry and Ontario municipalities to support waste diversion programs.

For more information on what household hazardous waste is and where to drop it off please visit york.ca/hhw or call 1-866-665-6752

A Vaughan motorist, who threatened to issue a distracted driving ticket to another driver, has been charged with impersonating a police officer. The incident occurred Friday, at about 3:30 p.m., when a woman, driving north on Dufferin Street, just north of Steeles Avenue, noticed she was being followed by a Toyota SUV. The Toyota pulled up in the lane next to her and both vehicles were stopped side by side in traffic. The driver of the Toyota rolled down his window and flashed a flashlight at her to get her attention. The male driver was wearing what the victim believed was a police jacket, so she rolled down her window to speak to him. The suspect identified himself as a police officer and began to yell at the victim for texting and driving and threatened to give her a $500 ticket. When traffic began to move again, the interaction ended and the victim proceeded northbound. At the time the incident, an officer was in the area conducting increased plainclothes patrols in response to recent increases in break and enters in the region. The officer observed a portion of the interaction and felt it appeared suspicious. The officer was able to locate the victim, who advised him of what had taken place. York Regional Police charged a 58-year-old Vaughan man for impersonating a police officer on two occasions in Vaughan. Steven Boan is to appear in a Newmarket court Feb. 11. Police are reminding motorists if you are approached by someone who identifies himself/herself as a police officer, you can request to see their badge and photo identification to verify their identity. If the officer cannot produce identification and you are suspicious, contact York Regional Police directly at 1-866-876-5423. If you are driving and you suspect that an individual is not a police officer, maintain current speeds, obey all traffic laws and proceed to the nearest police station. Use your cellphone to contact police if you suspect the person attempting to stop you is not a legitimate police officer. Ask the dispatcher to send a supervisor to your location in a marked police car.

NAIAS: Japanese automakers turn heads in Detroit By Neil Moore Metroland Wheels DETROIT, MI: After putting up with the standard Pearson treatment (long lineups, surly service), it’s a bummer to hear your flight has been cancelled, virtually at the same time you’re expecting to board.

But foul weather in Motor City meant that nothing was taking off or landing at Detroit Metro Airport, so it was up to our small group of Canadian journalists – and Nissan management – to find an alternative. Wouldn’t want to miss the fun at the North American International Auto Show.

It was reminiscent of Planes, Trains and Automobiles, with a group from Montreal flying to T.O. and then driving, and others cabbing it from Billy Bishop Airport to Oakville to hitch a ride. Luckily, our Pearson crew included Nissan Canada’s Didier Marsaud, who lived nearby and offered his Infiniti QX60 crossover for the journey that was

whipped by blowing snow and icy conditions that got progressively worse as we headed west. But it was the automobile that eventually got all of us safely there, which was apt for an event that celebrates all things automotive. NAIAS kicked off early Monday with the 2016

9 |The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016

wheels.ca

The Thornhill Liberal Thursday, January 21, 2016

Turn to page 10

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AN.CA OR Y OUR L OCAL RET AILER ALREADY DRIVING A NISSAN? OUR LOYALTY PROGRAM HAS GREAT OFFERS! • VISIT CHOOSENISS CHOOSENISSAN.CA YOUR LOCAL RETAILER Offers available from January 11, 2016 – February 1, 2016. ≈ Payments cannot be made on a weekly basis, for advertising purposes only. +Offer is administered by Nissan Canada Extended Services Inc. (NCESI) and applies to any MY15 Micra/Sentra/Murano and MY16 Versa Note/Rogue/Pathfinder models (each, an “Eligible Model”) leased and registered through Nissan Canada Financial Services Inc., on approved credit, between Jan 11 – Feb 1, 2016 from an authorized Nissan retailer in Canada. Eligible only on leases through NCF with subvented rates. Offer recipient will be entitled to receive a maximum of six (6) service visits (each, a “Service Visit”) for the Eligible Vehicle – where each Service Visit consists of one (1) oil change (using conventional 5W30 motor oil) and one (1) tire rotation service (each, an “Eligible Service”). All Eligible Services will be conducted in strict accordance with the Oil Change and Tire Rotation Plan outline in the Agreement Booklet for the Eligible Vehicle. The service period (“Service Period”) will commence on the purchase or lease transaction date (“Transaction Date”) and will expire on the earlier of: (i) the date on which the maximum number of Service Visits has been reached; (ii) 36 months from the Transaction Date; or (ii) when the Eligible Vehicle has reached 48,000 kilometers. All Eligible Services must be completed during the Service Period, otherwise they will be forfeited. The Offer may be upgraded to use premium oil at the recipient’s expense. The Eligible Services are not designed to meet all requirements and specifications necessary to maintain the Eligible Vehicle. To see the complete list of maintenance necessary, please refer to the Service Maintenance Guide. Any additional services required are not covered by the Offer and are the sole responsibility and cost of the recipient. Offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain offers NCESI reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. Additional conditions and limitations apply. Ask your retailer for details. ≠Representative monthly lease offer based on a new 2016 Rogue S FWD CVT (Y6RG16 AA00)/2016 Rogue SV Special Edition FWD (Y6SG16 AA00)/2016 Juke SV FWD (N5RT56 AA00). 1.49%/1.49%/0% lease APR for a 60/60/60 month term equals monthly payments of $281/$341/$244 with $0 down payment, and $0 security deposit. First monthly payment, down payment and $0 security deposit are due at lease inception. Payments include freight and fees. Lease based on a maximum of 20,000 km/20,000 km/16,000 km per year with excess charged at $0.10/km. Total lease obligation is $16,845/$20,453/$14,664. *Representative monthly lease offer based on a new 2016 Rogue S FWD CVT (Y6RG16 AA00). 0% lease APR for a 24 month term equals monthly payments of $438 with $0 down payment, and $0 security deposit. First monthly payment, down payment and $0 security deposit are due at lease inception. Payments include freight and fees. Lease based on a maximum of 20,000 km/year with excess charged at $0.10/km. Total lease obligation is $10,518. ‡ $3,250/$5,500/$6,500 NCF standard finance cash (includes bonus cash) available on new 2015 Micra 1.6 SR (S5SG55 AA00/AA10)/(S5SG75 AA00/AA10)/2015 Sentra 1.8 SL (C4LG55 AA00)/2015 Altima 2.5 SL (T4LG15 AAOO)/(T4TG15 NV00)/(T4SG15 NV00) models when financing with NCF at standard rates. ▲Models shown $37,139/$26,129/$35,281 Selling price for a new 2016 Rogue SL AWD Premium (Y6DG16 BK00)/ 2015 Sentra 1.8 SL (C4TG15 AA00)/2016 Juke® Colour Studio SL AWD (N5XT15 AA00). See your dealer or visit Nissan.ca/Loyalty. *◆±≠▲Freight and PDE charges ($1,760/$1,600/$1,700) air-conditioning levy ($100) where applicable, applicable fees (all which may vary by region), manufacturer’s rebate and dealer participation where applicable are included. License, registration, insurance and applicable taxes are extra. Lease offers are available on approved credit through Nissan Canada Finance for a limited time, may change without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers except stackable trading dollars. Vehicles and accessories are for illustration purposes only. 2016 Rogue recognized as IIHS top safety picks when equipped with Forward Emergency Braking. For more information see www.IIHS.org. The Nissan Sentra received the lowest number of problems per 100 vehicles among compact cars in the proprietary J.D. Power 2015 Initial Quality StudySM. Study based on responses from 84,367 new-vehicle owners, measuring 244 models and measures opinions after 90 days of ownership. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of owners surveyed in February-May 2015. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. See your participating Nissan retailer for complete details. ©2016 Nissan Canada Inc. and Nissan Canada Financial Services Inc. a division of Nissan Canada Inc.

WILLOWDALE NISSAN 7200 YONGE STREET, THORNHILL TEL: (905) 881-3900

The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016 |

New Infiniti Q60, Lexus LC 500 wow the audience Continued from page 9 North American Car and Truck of the Year awards. You might think it would be skewed towards the Detroit Three, but it was nothing of the sort with Honda Pilot, Nissan Titan and Volvo XC 90 as finalists for the truck award, and Mazda MX-5, Honda Civic and Chevy Malibu for the car. Indeed, four of six were from Japanese automakers, which as a group, had some interesting debuts at this year’s event.

ACURA: The cutting-edge Acura Precision Concept is not a flight of fancy, the company claims, but points to a “bolder, more distinctive future” for

Acura vehicle design. The heavily sculpted vehicle, which rolls on massive 22-inch alloys, is long, low and wide, and it showcases Acura’s new Diamond Pentagon grille. The interior is equally dramatic with its doublelayered instrument panel, ultra-thin “floating” rear seats and hand crafted wood speaker grilles.

HONDA: While some automakers champion traditional body-on-frame construction, Honda claims its lightweight, rigid unibody is better - at least for mid-sized pickups. Which is a segment where their all-new Ridgeline claims to have an edge on the competition in terms of passenger space, driving dynamics, and in the back where a wider bed can haul sheets of drywall between the wheelwells. The Ridgeline will be available for the first time in both front- and AWD, and is powered by a 3.5-litre, direct-injected i-VTEC V6 that claims best-in-class acceleration. Payload isn’t confirmed, but is expected to approach 1,600 lbs.

NISSAN:

The Toyota Mirai is a mid-size, four door fuel cell vehicle that emits only water vapour.

Nissan Design America took its finalist for North American Truck of the Year and made it even more badass. The Titan XD has gained three inches in height

to accommodate four 37-inch high offroad tires, six inches in width to house its long-travel suspension, and was fitted with a pile of exterior, interior and offroad mods to become the Titan Warrior Concept. It’s 20 feet long, nearly seven feet at the roof, and over seven feet wide – so the vehicle makes a statement. As do its flared fenders, functional hood vents, menacing front grille and headlight treatment. Power comes from the same Cummins 5.0-litre V8 turbo diesel that powers the conventional XD: 310 hp and 555 lb/ft of torque.

INFINITI: The third-generation Q60 Coupe receives not only a makeover inside and out, but also a big boost in available power. Engines start with a 2.0-litre turbo four that produces 208 hp, and more importantly, 258 lb/ft from a low 1,500 rpm. The twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 kicks it up several notches with 300 hp and 295 lb/ft of torque, and the high-output version delivers 400 hp and 350 lb/ft of torque, starting at 1,600 rpm. The new exterior includes Infiniti’s signature design cues – like the double-arch grille and crescent-shaped C-pillars – along with LED headlights that resemble a human eyelid, and more aggressive grille. The Canadian market will get AWD models starting late summer.

SCION: Scion’s C-HR concept appeared in Detroit for the first time since its global debut in November. It’s a design targeting young urban creatives, with a production version expected to be shown later in 2016.

TOYOTA: Fuel cell vehicles are truly a clean power source, and the Toyota Mirai uses hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity for its electric motor. This fourdoor, mid-size sedan emits only water vapour.

LEXUS: The LF-LC Concept was a head-turner when it debuted at the 2012 NAIAS, but we journos always questioned their intent to build anything like it. After all, Lexus has always played it safe. The global debut of the 2017 LC 500 put any doubts to rest, as chief branding officer Akio Toyoda presented the most dramatic Lexus to date, other than perhaps the LFA supercar. This luxury flagship coupe features a wide stance, sensual curves, deep sculpting, a glass or carbon fibre roof and 3D mesh grille. The vehicle is based on an all-new rear-drive platform and is powered by the 5.0-litre V8 found in the RC F. It delivers 467 hp and 389 lb/ft of torque, along with a killer exhaust note.

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Story and photos by Rob Beintema Metroland Wheels

A4 made its North American debut along with a wagon version, the new Audi A4 allroad quattro.

DETROIT, MI: For Euro car companies, coming across the pond to North America’s biggest automotive show in Detroit has always been as important an audience as the Geneva, Frankfurt and Paris debuts. And even though a few of the brands - namely Bentley, Jaguar Land Rover and MINI - had nothing new to take onto the stage this January, there’s no shortage of new entries from the old world. Let’s touch on a few of the highlights:

Porsche Porsche unveiled two new 2017 sports cars - the 911 Turbo and the 911 Turbo S. Minor changes include new door handles, new fascias, new taillights, modifications only true aficionados would notice. But those diehard fans will appreciate Porsche always managing to find a few extra horses, this time bumping 3.8-litre twin-turbo engine power up to 540 hp in the 911 Turbo and 580 hp in the 911 Turbo S. Sign me up if my lotto numbers come in.

Audi The new fuel cell-powered h-tron quattro crossover concept, a solid indicator of Audi’s future, follows up on an electrically powered e-tron quattro concept that debuted earlier at Frankfurt. And the 2017 Audi

Mercedes-Benz Mercedes replaces two icons with a new 2017 SLC roadster and the new 2017 E-Class executive sedan. The SLC takes over from the SLK with two flavours - the SLC300 and the AMG SLC43 high performance variant, both reconfigured in a sleeker, smooth style with substantial suspension upgrades, new technologies and cosmetic tweaks inside and out. The SLC300 starts with the company’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine making 241 hp and 273 lb/ft of torque. The AMG SLC43 ups the ante with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 instead of its predecessor SLK55’s big old 5.5-litre V8. But don’t despair sport enthusiasts, because the new V6 roars forth with a potent 362 hp and 384 lb/ft of torque. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was an open secret with pics and details leaking out (probably on purpose) weeks before the show. This new executive sedan is lighter and longer. The squared-off design cues of the past are long gone and this latest E-Class evolution brings the sleek styling even closer to S-Class cues, even more so inside with a digital dash and accompanying upgrades to screen sizes, equipment and quality of fit and finish. The new 2017 E-Class will waste little time showing

|The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016

Euro companies bring new cars from the Old World

Porsche unveiled two new 2017 sports cars at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 11 - the 911 Turbo (left) and the 911 Turbo S.

up this spring. Mercedes’ smart division revealed the new 2017 smart fortwo cabriolet to follow up on the latest 2016 smart fortwo coupe.

Volvo Meanwhile, from Scandinavia (and China, sort of ) comes the 2017 Volvo S90, a new flagship for the Volvo sedan lineup, replacing the current S80. This new sophisticated sedan, coming on the heels of the new XC90 CUV is bigger, better and powered only by 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine choices (gasp!). But these are some special four-bangers, with a model

choices that include a 240 hp turbocharged T5, a 316 hp turbocharged and supercharged T6 and a 400 hp (combined) hybrid T8 Twin Engine version. Expect all the latest Volvo safety wizardry and more techy details to come.

BMW BMW has been no slouch either in developing new sustainable technologies, adapting their lineup with hybrids and electric vehicles. But the bottom line Continued om page 14

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The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016 |

| The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016

The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016 |

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The Audi A4 allroad quattro makes a world premiere January 11 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

European companies showcase cars of the near future Continued from page 11

in Bavaria has always been performance, perfectly illustrated by two new M treatment debuts - the M2 and X4 M40i. The 2016 M2 trims a little mass off the already sporty 2 Series Coupe while adding muscle with the latest twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, boasting 365 hp and 343 lb/ft of torque. Stand on the gas and an overboost function will pump in an additional 26 lb/ft when you really need it, contributing to a 0-100 km/h time of under 4.5 seconds via a standard six-speed manual or the even quicker DCT auto tranny. The 2016 X4 M40i adds the M treatment to BMW X4. They can call this a “coupe” until the cows come home but it is still just a fastback four-door grand touring version of the X3, although this uber X4

certainly gains performance oomph with added M components and the same twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six, making in this case, 355 hp and 343 lb/ft of torque.

Volkswagen Go to a magic show and you might notice how the beautiful assistant distracts you from what’s really going on. So, look over here, everyone, at the debut of the Volkswagen Tiguan GTE Active Concept, an off-road ready plug-in hybrid that expands a second generation, lighter and leaner 2016 Tiguan. There were also special edition Beetles and even more in the shiny, full lineup. To be fair, the VW presentation time started with apologies and promises to resolve the diesel deception fiasco.

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Limited time lease offers available through Honda Financial Services Inc. (HFS), to qualified retail customers on approved credit. Weekly payments include freight and PDI (ranges from $1,595 to $1,695 depending on model), EHF tires & filters ($22), A/C charge ($100), and OMVIC fee ($10). Taxes, license, insurance and registration are extra. ΩRepresentative weekly lease example: 2016 Civic LX Sedan 6MT (Model FC2E5GE) // 2016 Accord LX Sedan 6MT (Model CR2E3GE) // 2016 CR-V LX 2WD (Model RM3H3GE1) on a 60 month term with 260 weekly payments at 3.99% // 3.99% // 2.99% lease APR. Weekly payment is $58.85 // $71.67 // $74.84 with $0 down or equivalent trade-in and $240 // $570 // $240 total lease incentive included. Down payments, $0 security deposit and first weekly payment due at lease inception. Total lease obligation is $15,301.46 // $18,633.94 // $19,457.74. 120,000 kilometre allowance; charge of $0.12/km for excess kilometres. PPSA lien registration fee of $45.93 and lien registering agent’s fee of $5.65, due at time of delivery are not included. For all offers: license, insurance, other taxes (including HST) and excess wear and tear are extra. Taxes payable on full amount of purchase price. Offers only valid for Ontario residents at Ontario Honda Dealers. Dealer may lease for less. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Colour availability may vary by dealer. Vehicles and accessories are for illustration purposes only. Offers, prices and features subject to change without notice. See your Ontario Honda Dealer or visit HondaOntario. com for full details. ◆◆Based on Association of International Automobile Manufacturers of Canada (AIAMC) data reflecting sales between 1997 and December 2015. *None of the features described are intended to replace the driver’s responsibility to exercise due care while driving. Drivers should not use handheld devices or operate certain vehicle features unless it is safe and legal to do so. Some features have technological limitations. For additional feature information, limitations and restrictions, please visit www. honda.ca/disclaimers or refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Bluetooth is a registered trademark of SIG Inc. Apple and Apple CarPlay are trademarks of Apple Inc. Android and Android Auto are trademarks of Google Inc. †For more information, visit Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com. Kelley Blue Book is a registered trademark of Kelley Blue Book Co., Inc.

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|The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016

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The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016 |

SATURDAY, JAN. 23 Interested in learning how to green your home of toxic chemicals and harmful products and make indoor conditions more pleasant and healthy? Sandra Corrado, a health and wellness facilitator, offers a free, informative and fun session Jan. 23 in Richmond Hill, 10:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m, Limited space; register early at scorrado@nextlevels.ca or 416-729-1560.

SUNDAY, JAN. 24 Markham Museum, at 9350 Markham Rd, is a great place to enjoy Canadian winter and Family Showshoeing. Join us Jan. 24 from 2 to 4 p.m. for a basic introduction to snowshoeing, group activities/games and free time to explore the 25-acre grounds. Snowshoes provided; wear warm outdoor clothing, including winter boots. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Cost $16.95 per person; pre-registration required; call 905-305-5970. Just Friends, a social group for mature couples and singles, has a membership drive Jan. 24 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the food court of

Community Calendar Richmond Hill mall, Yonge and Carrville Road. Make new friends and enjoy social interaction; members participate in various social activities throughout the month. No membership fee. For details, call Rosie at 416-320-6146, or drop by food court and look for Just Friends sign.

ences and knowledge about ticks and Lyme disease; all welcome; please come fragrance free. Park on Hopkins Street just to south of police parking lot. For details, email yorknorth. lymegroup@gmail.com or go to www.facebook. com/yorknorthlymesupportgroup

Temple Har Zion and the Centre for Jewish Culture and Education co-sponsor an interactive community workshop — ‘How to Combat Anti-Semitism on University Campuses’ — Jan. 24 at 10 a.m. at Temple Har Zion, 7360 Bayview Ave., Thornhill. Universities are increasingly becoming places of unrest and fear for Jewish students; workshop is geared to students from Grade 9 and up, and their families. For more, visit templeharzion.com

TUESDAY, JAN. 26

MONDAY, JAN. 25 The regional York North Lyme Support Group meets Jan. 25, 7 to 9 p.m. at the Richmond Hill York Police Station, 171 Major Mackenzie Dr. W. Lyme patients and caregivers can share experi-

First Link Memory Café presented by Mosaic Home Care Services & Community Resource Centre, at Shops on Steeles and 404 mall, 2900 Steeles Ave. E., Suite 218 Jan. 26 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Free for those concerned about memory related issues; individuals diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s or related dementias, and their care partners. Share stories and socialize with others. To register, call 905-597-7000. For more, visit mosaichomecare.com

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 27 Home on the Hill’s Family Support Group meets Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. at St. Mary’s Anglican

THORNHILL

Church, 10030 Yonge St, in Richmond Hill; access via McLatchy Lane just west of Yonge on the north side of Major Mackenzie. Group meets the second and last Wednesdays of each month; all those supporting a loved one with serious mental illness welcome. For details, contact Maggie at maggie@rhveltheer.com.

FRIDAY, JAN. 29 A Mosaic Interfaith event will be held Jan. 29 at Temple Har Zion, 7360 Bayview Ave., Thornhill. Services at 8 p.m. followed at 9 p.m. by refreshments and address by guest speaker Kim Wheatley on “Broken Promises,” exploring First Nation treaty relationships — how they impact all Canadians. All welcome; RSVP to organizer Fran Isaacs at thisisfran@yahoo.com appreciated.

SATURDAY, JAN. 30 Choral Bonanza 2016 is presented Jan. 30 at Richmond Hill Christian Community Church, 9670 Bayview Ave., Richmond Hill at 6:30 p.m.

www.hallmarklindrealty.com

The Liberal welcomes submissions of upcoming events from non-profit community organizations. Every effort is made to include all submissions; there is no guarantee of publication. E-mail items to mbeck@yrmg.com Did you know you can add your own items to our online calendar? Visit: www.yorkregion.com/yorkregion-events/

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TD Markham Jazz Fest presents Tyler Yarema, Juno-award winning pianist, singer and songwriter at Duchess of Markham Pub, upstairs room, 53 Main St. North, Markham Jan. 31, 2 to 4 p.m.; doors open at 1:30 p.m. Tickets: $15 in advance; $20 at door (subject to availability). Visit markhamjazzfestival.com or call 905-471-5299.

Milan Melas

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LENARD LIND

SUNDAY, JAN. 31 Learn how to make challah and the history of challah, Jan. 31 at 1 p.m. at Temple Kol Ami, 36 Atkinson Ave, Thornhill with local Jewish foodie Sarah Livingstone. Limited seating. Cost $10; register at 905-709-2620 ext. 3 or email admin@kolami.ca

OPEN HOUSE SAT & SUN JAN 23/24 ~ 2-4PM

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Enjoy eight school, church and regional choirs, singing individually, and as a mass choir. Tickets: $20, students free. For tickets, contact Suzanna at 905-737-2265 or Lourdes at 905-773-1474. Produced by Richmond Hill Northern Harmony.

Broker of Record/Owner

Soaring 9 ft. ceilings on both levels! Sep. entertaining sized LR & DR! Main floor den! Gourmet kitchen w/quartz cntrs & huge bkfst area with w/o to oversized overhung deck w/access to cedar solarium w/hot tub! Inviting master w/enticing 5pc ensuite! 2nd bdrm w/sitting area, fireplace, 4pc bath nanny or granny suite! Child-safe court!

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Location Location! Attention Builders/Investors

Gorgeous Reno’d Home In Wood River Acres!!

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|The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016

Paul Zammit Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage

$1,398,000

Open House Sunday 2-4PM

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• Beautiful Treed Lot In Thornhill • Build Your Dream Home or Rent It Out • 163x113 Ft Lot • On Cul-De-Sac & Close To Transit

• Premium Lot 75x200 Ft Lot Backs Onto Briar’s Golf Club • 4 Bdrm, 4 Bath • Newly Reno’d Kit W/ Lrg Island. • Steps To All Amenities Downtown Sutton & More $599,000

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• 2 Bdrm, 1 Bath & Approx 860sqft • Beautifully Reno’d & Updated Unit • All Inclusive Maintenance Fees • Mins To TTC/Subway, Bayview Village & Earl Haig SS

• 940sqft + 30sqft Balcony • 2+2 Bdrm, 2 Bath • Lrg Breakfast Area, S/S Appl’s • Walking Distance to Transit, Schools & Entertainment

745 Sq Ft • Penthouse Level • Hardwood Floors Throughout • Freshly Painted • Split Bedroom Layout • South Exposure • Open Concept Living/Dining • Steps To Shopping, Restaurants, Transit, Go Train, 407, 404, Hwy 7 $1,800/Month

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MEET THE AWARD WINNING ZAMMIT TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS! **Paul Zammit *Madeline Fox-Zammit *Michelle Fox-O’Dell *Ian Greenberg *Natasha Lehman *Sharon Luft *Robin Blumenkranz *Nancy Alter *Vivian Stoutt *Maryam Asadi *Taline Sagharian *Jules Goldstein *Anastasia Petrov *Sharon Rival *Waheeda Bharwani * Greg Speed

**Broker Of Record *Sales Representative

Drop by our office at 60 Green Lane, Thornhill or Visit us online at ThornhillReport.com & RichmondHillReport.com

* Paul Zammit - #1 Agent For The Most Amount Of Listings Sold In Thornhill Out Of Approximately 37,500 Agents In Treb For The Years 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. * #1 Agent For The Most Amount Of Listings Sold In All Of Markham Out Of Approximately 37,500 Agents In The Toronto Real Estate Board For The Year 2014. * #1 Agent For The Most Amount Of Listings Sold In All Of York Region Out Of Approximately 37,500 Agents In The Toronto Real Estate Board For The Year 2014. * #16 Agent For The Most Amount Of Listings Sold In All Of The GTA (For Properties That Were Listed On The TREB System) Out Of Approximately 37,500 Agents In The Toronto Real Estate Board For The Year 2014. Licensed With RE/MAX Hallmark From 1999-2009. Not Intended To Solicit Current Agency Relationships

The Thornhill Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016 |

Residents weigh in on redevelopment of plaza By simone joseph

sjoseph@yrmg.com

The results are in. More than 300 people responded to a survey about SpringFarm Marketplace (Sobey’s Plaza) in the Clark and Hilda avenues area. “It shows how interested the community is in what’s happening at the plaza,” said Pamela Taraday-Levy, president of the SpringFarm Ratepayers Association. Ward 5 Thornhill Councillor Alan Shefman was also impressed by the response. “It provides a community voice with strength behind it,” he said. “I’m hopeful RioCan will take note. “Hopefully, these guys are going to listen,” Shefman said. On Nov. 4, at a public meeting, plaza owner RioCan outlined its redevelopment plans for the plaza, which includes Shoppers Drug Mart, TD Bank, and other retailers and restaurants. The survey, distributed by the ratepayers association, revealed that about 83 per cent of survey respondents have six main concerns. They include increased traffic, loss of a southbound lane on Hilda during construction, potential for too many units (condo or rental) in space avail-

able, height of the proposed building, potential loss of existing shops/services, potential loss of parking spaces during construction. The survey found almost 82 per cent of people who responded shopped either daily or weekly at the plaza. The results contained one or two surprises, said ratepayer representatives. For example, 50 per cent of those surveyed have lived in the area for 20 years or more. The largest group of people who responded are in the 60 and older age group, which accounts for 45.6 per cent of those who responded. “I don’t think we realized the age group or length of time they lived here,” Taraday-Levy said. “This is a very stable community,” she said. “It is not a transient neighbourhood at all”. More than 21 per cent of those who responded are not opposed to change. More than 80 per cent of respondents want the redevelopment to include the following priorities: more storefronts and restaurants at street level, building height restricted to 10 storeys or less, underground parking with a covered/closed connection to merchant area, a park/ community green space above underground parking, tunnel access for cars/ vans from Clark/Hilda to enter under-

ground parking. RioCan has said it is interested in working with SpringFarm’s Ratepayers Association and has offered to sponsor a design charrette — a technique for consulting with all stakeholders, especially in design/architectural areas. It typically involves intense and possibly multi-day meetings, including municipal officials, developers, and residents. The date for the charrett has not been set, but will likely happen at the beginning of February. Shefman has been invited, but the public will not be involved since it’s not a public meeting, but a working group. RioCan’s development application to the city of Vaughan is expected sometime in late January to early February. Even after a formal submission is made to the city, the ratepayers association is still able to lobby on behalf of the community. “We are talking and that’s a good thing. We will know more when there is a formal submission made to the city,” Shefman said. Residents were told the redevelopment would not remove Sobey’s, a popular supermarket, which has a lease that runs to 2030. For more information about the residents association, e-mail springfarmra@ gmail.com.

This artist’s rendition shows an 18-storey condo RioCan is proposing at Clark Avenue at Hilda in Thornhill.

Thornhill resident, former MPP enters into Order of Ontario By simone joseph

sjoseph@yrmg.com

Don’t miss these flyers in today’s Liberal!

JANUARY 22-24, 2016

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Thornhill’s Mary Anne Chambers, a former Ontario cabinet minister and former MPP for Scarborough East, is now a recipient of the Order of Ontario. Chambers emigrated from Jamaica with her family, then succeeded in the worlds of business and politics, first as a vice-president with Scotiabank, then as an MPP and cabinet minister in Dalton McGuinty’s former Liberal government. Chambers was one of 25 new appointments to the Order of Ontario, announced earlier this month by Elizabeth Dowdeswell, the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. New appointees were honoured at Queen’s Park Wednesday. The Order of Ontario is the province’s highest official honour. In Chambers’ first term as a politician, she took charge of two Ontario ministries: the ministries of Training, Colleges and Universities from 2003 to 2005, followed by Children and Youth Services. Chambers concluded, “I have been able to improve the lives of probably millions of people.” Chambers has said she takes pride in having listened to people who weren’t listened to and having moved agendas forward “where people had almost given up hope”. McGuinty credited Chambers as “the driving force” behind his government’s Youth Opportunities Strategy and Ontario Child Benefit, while Toronto Mayor and former Conservative Leader John Tory praised Chambers, saying he believes Ontario “is a more inclusive place thanks to her efforts.” Chambers has served on boards of the United Way, the Rouge Valley Health System and University of Toronto. She personally funds scholarships and sponsors an academic mentorship program at the University of Toronto. The order of Ontario recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence and achievement in any field benefiting the people of Ontario or anywhere in the world. — With files from Mike Adler

HIRE EXPECTATIONS

Jobs • Careers • Career Training

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.NET DEVELOPERS TIRED OF COMMUTING? NMG, based in NEWMARKET, Ontario is a National Marketing Corporation. NMG operates and manages a diversity of enterprises within varied marketplaces. With 35 years of successful management experience, the NMG Marketing Groups have grown to become the largest purchasers in their industries in Canada, providing our Members with unparalleled purchasing power that exceeds $6 Billion annually. NMG is currently expanding to the U.S.

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Job Fair

February 15 & 16, 2016 10am to 4pm

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Now Hiring School Bus Drivers No Experience Required Free Training Provided Up to $500 Hiring Incentive Contact us @ 289-467-4998 ext. 7033 or e-mail: pnarayan@sharpbus.com Or apply in person: 540-A Oster Lane, Concord

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We are calling out for Intermediate .NET DEVELOPERS to seize the opportunity offered in this new position. Reporting to the Leader of Information Services, the successful candidate will grow with our talented development team. Your passion for technology and problem solving will be rewarded by your creation of high-impact customer centric solutions using leading edge technologies and methodologies. Your experience crafting in .NET, SQL Server, for client-server, web and mobile environments, augmented by your exceptional communication, time and project management skills will directly contribute to the growth and success of our enterprise.

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To pursue this career opportunity in Newmarket with an industry competitive compensation and group beneﬁts package, reply with your resume: jem@newmarketgroup.com Web (www. newmarketgroup.com) Only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

ClubLink, Canada’s largest owner and operator of golf clubs, is hosting hiring fairs in your area. Golf • Hospitality • Turf • Resort Operations

In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), NMG will provide reasonable accommodations, accessible formats and communication supports upon request to persons with disabilities who take part in all aspects of the recruitment and selection process.

Visit www.clublink.ca for dates and locations.

Classifieds

LocalWork.ca

Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm • 905-853-2527 • Toll Free 1-800-743-3353 • Fax 905-853-1765 • For delivery questions, please contact 1-855-853-5613 EXPERIENCED PHARMACY TECH required in Richmond Hill. Email resume to:

123drugs@gmail.com or call 647-210-8677 Aurora Montessori School requires MACTE/AMI/RECE staff for classroom supply. Also required BEFORE/AFTERSCHOOL CARE and LUNCH PROGRAM Please email resume to: info@auroramontessori.com or call 905-841-0065 ext.300

29 DRIVERS needed ASAP Full time, part time, on call. $11.25/hr. Company vehicle provided. Great opportunity! Email: hrcity@outlook.com CLEANERS NEEDED Part- Time, Evenings. Richmond Hill. Must have a vehicle and a valid driver’s license.

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Part Time Drivers Required

Approximately 30 hours per week Retirees Welcomed **Need to be available Monday to Friday as required!! Please apply in person with resume and drivers abstract to: PARAMOUNT TRUCK SALES 8800 Yonge Street Richmond Hill, On, 905-764-5252 Must have a valid Canadian passport for border crossing trips.

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JOB POSTING JOB TITLE: Machine Strapper - Permanent Part-time BUSINESS UNIT: Aurora, ON THE OPPORTUNITY York Region Media Group, a division of Metroland Media Group, is currently looking to fill a casual part-time Machine Strapper position for the Aurora Warehouse, working up to 29 hours a week. Reporting to the Machine Operator, the Machine Strapper is responsible for removing skids from the line, relocating them to the appropriate slots using the pump truck and wrapping finished product. KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES • Remove skids from line, relocate them to the appropriate slots using pump truck and wrap finished product • Follow the job list assigned to count, insert flyers and stacking • Retrieve flyers from surrounding skids • Hours fluctuate seasonally based on insert/flyer volume • Work in a safety-conscious manner as outlined in the Company and department safety policies • Perform physical material handling • To perform other duties as assigned by the Supervisor WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR • Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment • Previous experience in a manufacturing environment, an asset • Attention to detail • Have their own transportation If working for a highly energized, competitive team is your ideal environment, please email your resume esmyth@yrmg.com by January 21, 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 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. Thank you for your interest. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

| The Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016

HIRE EXPECTATIONS

The Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016 |

Classifieds

LocalWork.ca

Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm • 905-853-2527 • Toll Free 1-800-743-3353 • Fax 905-853-1765 • For delivery questions, please contact 1-855-853-5613 Sandgate Women’s Shelter of York Region Inc. is dedicated to providing all persons who identify as women and their children shelter, support and information so they can take steps towards ending abuse in their lives. Sandgate is a feminist organization and works from an anti-oppressive framework. As such, we support and empower women who experience various barriers to achieving safety in their lives.

ADULT CARRIERS NEEDED

We are currently recruiting for the following positions:

OUTREACH WORKER - Permanent Full-Time

For door-to-door newspaper delivery 1 day per week. Reliable vehicle required Call 1-855-853-5613 ext. 8

Primarily provides mobile, residential and non-residential crisis support individually and in group settings to develop and carry out individualized goal plans, provides community education, development and event planning on the issues of violence against women. The Outreach Worker also provides safety planning, crisis intervention, trauma and clinical counselling, advocacy, referrals and follow-up support. Qualifications: University degree in Social Work or Psychology and 1 - 2 years related experience. Second language required (Russian, Portuguese, Italian and/or Spanish preferred)

RELIEF WOMEN’S ADVOCATE - Casual

Provides immediate and responsive crisis counselling in person and by telephone. Service delivery includes crisis intervention, information dissemination, supportive counselling, advocacy, safety planning, referrals, problem solving and goal setting. Qualifications: Post-secondary degree or diploma in a relevant discipline and 1 - 2 years related experience. Second language required (Russian, Portuguese, Italian and /or Spanish preferred) For more information please contact Human Resources at: slindsay@sandgate.ca

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CARRIERS NEEDED

required full time for busy food manufacturing plant in Aurora. Candidate must be able to work in the freezer 30% of the time.

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For door-to-door newspaper delivery 1 day per week. Call 1-855-853-5613 ext. 8

P&F Meat Products Ltd. Located at 10768 Woodbine Avenue in Markham has three positions available.

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Home Renovations

HOME RENO. 25 years exp. Basement. Kitchen. Bathroom. Drywall. Painting. Call Cam 647-388-1866 www.hongfuconstruction.com

CEILINGS REPAIRED. Spray textures, plaster designs, stucco, drywall, paint. We fix them all! www.mrstucco.ca 905-554-0825 MR. FIX-IT-”ALL” All Home Services, Repairs & Renovations. Bathroom, Countertop, Backsplash, Ceramics, Plumbing, Ceiling Spraying, Crown Moulding, Flooring, Garage Openers, Appliance Repair/ Installation (905)669-4658

www.yorkregion.com

AUTOMOTIVE SALES CONSULTANT Mazda of Richmond Hill is currently seeking an Automotive Sales Consultant to provide exceptional customer service while promoting and selling a full range of Mazda products, as well as developing long term relationships with customers built on trust and integrity. Candidates must have a valid driver’s license and be able to work a variety of shifts including evenings & weekends. OMVIC certification is a definite asset, but we are willing to train the right individual. Knowledge of Farsi preferred. If you are outgoing, energetic and want to be part of a great team, email your resume to: r_menon@erinmillsmazda.com Mazda of Richmond Hill 10414 Yonge Street Business Services

Business Services

Need a personal or business startup Capital ? Get 100% financing on business investment or consolidation rates from 2.9% regardless of your credit or bankruptcy. Call now at: (204) 296-0699 APPLYING FOR CANADA PENSION PLAN DISABILITY BENEFITS? Increase your chance of success. Call the Disability Claims Advocacy Clinic. 1-877-793-3222 www.dcac.ca info@dcac.ca

Tutoring

MATH, SAT, SCIENCE, ENGLISH, FRENCH Group and private lessons. Exam preparation. Highschool credits / Afterschool Program

905-787-9720 www.quantumacademy.ca

K TO 12 TUTORING: Math, Science, ESL, GR.10 Literacy Test, EQAO GR.3, 6, 9. OCT Certified 2004. Nadia, 416-859-5538.

New Salespeople Wanted No Sales Experience Necessary This is not a Sales Course, It is a Job Offer.

ASC Dealership Group is hiring new salespeople for Chrysler, KIA, Buick, GM and Toyota New Car Dealerships. Male or Female at least 19 years of age; You Must have a minimum of a G2 Drivers License; You Must have Good Communication Skills; You Must be able to Start within 2 weeks You will Receive a Base Pay, Commission per vehicle sold, Monthly Bonuses, Medical & Dental Benefits and Company Car upon qualification.

For a Quick response, Email hr@visitasc.com now. * Check your Spam folder for a reply’s from us. Or you can Call 416-398-7889 to Set an Interview * Resumes are Not Required at this Time

Sewer Line Video Inspection (CCTV) Operators, Sewer Flusher Truck Operators and Apprentice Operators for Benko Sewer Service. Clean and valid G license for CCTV Operators; D license for Flusher Operators. Send resume: edtremblay@benkoservice.com Attention: Ed Tremblay

F/T CAREGIVER to care for elderly person with a spine condition, private home (Thornhill). 40hrs/wk. Mon-Fri 8am-6pm including unpaid breaks. Temp 2yr position. $13.76/hr (overtime $20.64). 10 days vacation. 5 days paid sick leave. Live-in option available at no charge (not a condition of employment). Duties: Administer bedside and personal care/hygiene, dressing/undressing, housekeeping, meal preparation, childcare, pet care. 1yr exp or 6 months training req’d and completion of secondary school. Must be able to communicate in English. Contact: mary@vinbon.ca, 416-746-4501.

NIGHT SHIFT WORKERS REQUIRED Mr. Dairy & Food Distributing Ltd. is now looking for night shift workers. Duties include picking and checking orders and loading of trucks. Knowledge of fork lift operation is an asset. Please email your resume to: info@mrdairy.com or fax to 416-741-4085

Richmond Hill, Bayview & 16th Ave. FT $11.25-$12.00/hr, 44 hrs/week. Assisting parents with child care for 3 children age 7-16 and household duties. 3+years’ relevant experience, completion of college, fluent in speaking/writing English. Optional accommodation available at no charge on a live-in basis. Note: This is not a condition of employment. Contact Christine: judypun@leeli.com.

Mortgages/Loans

$$ CONSOLIDATE YOUR DEBT $$ HOME EQUITY LOANS FOR ANY PURPOSE!! Bank turn downs, Tax or Mortgage Arrears, Self Employed, Bad Credit, Bankruptcy. We are creative mortgage specialists! No proof of income 1st, 2nd, and 3rd’s up to 85% BORROW: $25,000 $50,000 $100,000 $200,000

PAY MONTHLY: $ 105.40 $ 237.11 $ 474.21 $ 948.42

LARGER AMOUNTS AND COMMERCIAL FUNDS AVAILABLE Decrease monthly payments up to 75%!!

Parents’ Helper (NOC6474) - Contract

Mortgages/Loans

TAX FREE MONEY is available, if you are a homeowner, today! We can easily approve you by phone. 1st, 2nd or 3rd mortgage money is available right now. Rates start at Prime. Equity counts. We don’t rely on credit, age or income. CALL ANYTIME 1-800-814-2578 or 905-361-1153. Apply online www.capitaldirect.ca Legal Services

Legal Services

Based on 3% APR. OAC

1-888-307-7799

Ontario-Wide Financial Corp. (FSCO Licence #12456)

www.ontario-widefinancial.com

!! LET US HELP !!

Cleaning/Janitorial

EUROCLEANERS SERVICEResidential and commercial. Cleaners with experience. Bonded, insured. Ask about free cleaning. References available. (416)995-4499.

CRIMINAL RECORD? Canadian Record Suspension (Criminal pardon) seals record. American waiver allows legal entry. Why risk employment, business, travel, licensing, deportation, peace of mind? Free consultation: 1-800-347-2540

Domestic Help Available

ABSOLUTELY BEST cleaning ladies available. Honest & hard working, insured/ bonded. 416-897-6782. www.maidforyoutorontoltd.com

Notices (Public)

SHERIFF’S SALE OF LANDS Under and by virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the, Ontario Superior Court Of Justice, Ontario dated May 8, 2009 Court File CV-09-1008-00 to me directed, against the real and personal property of Kwong-Wing Li, Defendant at the suit of Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce Plaintiff, I have seized and taken in execution all right, title, interest and EQUITY OF REDEMPTION of Kwong-Wing Li PCL 27-1; SEC 65M2542; LT 27, PL 65M2542 , S/T LT508769;Richmond Hill; Newmarket Land Titles Office for the Land Titles Division of York (No. 65) and Municipally known as 241 Valleymede Drive, Richmond Hill, On L4B 2A3 All of which said right, title, interest and EQUITY OF REDEMPTION of, Kwong-Wing Li Defendant, in the said Lands and Tenements described above, I shall offer for sale by Public Auction subject to the conditions set out below at The Court House on 1st Floor 50 Eagle Street West, NEWMARKET, Ontario on Thursday February 4, 2016 at 10:00 o’clock in the morning. CONDITIONS: The purchaser to assume responsibility for all mortgages, charges, liens, outstanding taxes, and other encumbrances. No representation is made regarding the title of the land or any other matter relating to the interest to be sold. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchaser. TERMS: Deposit 10% or $1,000.00, whichever is greater - Payable at time of sale by successful bidder - To be applied to purchase price - NON-REFUNDABLETEN business days from date of sale to arrange financing and pay balance IN FULL at The Court House, Civil/Enforcement Office, 50 Eagle Street West, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 6B1. All payments in CASH or CERTIFIED cheque made payable to the Minister of Finance OTHER CONDITIONS AS ANNOUNCED SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION BY THE SHERIFF UP TO THE TIME OF SALE. NOTE: No Employee of the Ministry of the Attorney General may purchase any goods or chattels, lands or tenements exposed by a Sheriff for sale under legal process, either directly or indirectly. December 21,2015 Sheriff Civil/Enforcement Office Regional Municipality of York Telephone (905) 853-4809 File # 09-1977 For Information Contact The Enforcement Office Houses for Sale

Houses for Sale

Townhouse/Condos for Sale

40 BAIF

MUST SEE Beautiful Brand NEW 3 Bedroom Town House for sale in Jefferson Forest. Comes with:

•Long driveway to fit 2 cars, •Plus a garage •No Sidewalk •Laundry Room upstairs •Air Conditioning •Backs on to Ravine •Main Floor Hard wood Floor •Fireplace •Wiring to mount TV above Fireplace •Walk- Out Basement •Double Closet in 2nd Bed Room •Walk - in Closet in Master Bedroom •Roughed in Laundry and Washroom in Basement

Asking: $789,000.00 Please Call: 647-641-1985

LOVELY SUITE

• 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Large balcony Use of Club66 • Parking Health & Rec. • Storage locker included! • Steps to Hillcrest Mall

Great value in this high demand location! Malcolm Austin, Sales Representative Royal Lepage Partners Rlty.

416-229-4454

Handy Person

40% off on new kitchen cabinets, granite, quartz and all natural stone countertops until February 15th. Best quality and reasonable prices. Call 416-845-1556.

Check Out:

Plumbing

SEMI-RETIRED MASTER PLUMBER. Experienced. Courteous. No job too small! Licensed and insured. Reasonable rates. 416-948-6536

Gottarent.com

Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm • 905-853-2527 • Toll Free 1-800-743-3353 • Fax 905-853-1765 For delivery questions, please contact 1-855-853-5613

Apartments for Rent

MCCOWAN/ 14TH Newly renovated 2 bedroom basement apartment, washer/ dryer, fridge/ stove, 1 parking. Non-smoking, no pets. Near transit. $1100 inclusive. Feb. 1st.. 905-472-8963 MCCOWAN/HWY 7, 1 bedroom optional fully furnished basement apartment, separate entrance, own laundry, cable, parking and utilities included. Very bright, clean and spacious. $775 inclusive. 905-294-0730. RICHMOND HILL Apts. - 15 Baif Blvd. AMAZING 3 bdrms Suites! LVP flooring, great views, upgraded avail! Dishwashers, in-suite storage, pool, social rm w/ events, car wash, GREAT LOCATION! Drop in TODAY, Office open daily. (905) 883-4994 richmondhillapts.com

AURORA, 1 bedroom in building on Yonge St., parking, hardwood floors. Close to all amenities. 905-503-2133. AURORA CENTRAL, 2 bedroom, Feb,. 1st., $1350 inclusive. Bachelor, Feb. 1st, $800 inclusive. Parking, no smoking/pets. 905.841.1060 AURORA- 90 Temperance St. 1 bedroom apartment available immediately. Clean, quiet building, near amenities. $1150 inclusive. No smoking/dogs. Feb. 1 & March 1st. 647-321-5930 DUFFERIN/ MAJOR Mackenzie 1 bedroom, separate entrance, walkout, parking, Non-smoking/ pets. $850 Inclusive. 905-886-7272. MCCOWAN/HWY#7- 1 bedroom basement with full kitchen, washer, dryer, 1 parking. No smoking. No pets. Walking distance to Markville Mall & transit. $850 inclusive. Immediately 416-400-3661

JUST OVER 1200 SQ. FT

(No Agents)

Handy Person

Townhouse/Condos for Sale

Classifieds

NEWMARKET- QUIET building. Water & heating included. Large 1 bedroom apts. From $950. Non-smoking 647-704-0220. RICHMOND HILL Bayview/ Major Mackenzie 1 bedroom apt in building. References a must. Available February. Call 905-883-0544 between 9am-8pm

Moving & Storage

PARRIS MOVERS Long/short, big/small, residential/ condos/ commercial. Quality service. Affordable/ reliable. 905-758-2848, 416-677-2848 www.parrismovers.ca

Painting & Decorating

PRO PAINTING 20 years experience. Room $150. Call or text Pete 905-751-3612 or 416-878-1806 or email select3p@gmail.com

Apartments for Rent

Houses for Rent

RICHMOND HILL, Yonge/Major Mac, Newly renovated 2 bedroom basement, separate entrance, parking, laundry, utilities. Feb.1st, no smoking. 647-746-6727.

SCHOMBERG, 2 bedroom bungalow, 1 car parking, $1250 per month + 40% utilities. Available immediately. Contact Paul Hawkins 905-955-5340.

WOODBRIDGE- 2 bedroom basement, 2 parking, separate entrance, laundry. No pets. No smoking. $1200. 416-460-4134

YONGE/HWY#7, 1 Bedroom ground level apartment in newly renovated semi-detached house. 4 Appliances, parking, $1150 inclusive. 905-881-4568.

NEWMARKET- (PATTERSON/ Davis) 3 bedroom, upper. Updated kitchen, large master with walk-in closet. Parking, close to hospital/ public transportation. No pets/ smoking. $1395 inclusive. Immediate. 289-231-0937

BETWEEN DUFFERIN & Keele- 4 bedrooms + 2 bedroom basement. Rent together or separate. 5 parking. Available immediately. $3,800 or 4 bedrooms $2500+, or basement $1350. 289-342-0080, 647-530-4178, 647-822-8954

MCCOWAN/ 16TH- Modern, bright, clean 1100sq.ft. 1 bedroom basement, separate entrance, fireplace, laundry, parking. February 1st. Non-smoking/pets. $950 inclusive. 647-632-7342 RICHMOND HILL- Mill Pond- 2 bedrooms, 4 piece bath, livingroom, appliances, C/A, C/V, laundry, separate entrance, near transit/shopping. $1400 negotiable or $750 inclusive per room. Immediate. 647-960-0052

Condos for Rent

AURORA 2 bedroom, 2 full baths, jacuzzi, 5 appliances, c/a, open concept with fireplace, roof top patio. Near GO. No smokers or pets. 705-728-6670

Houses for Rent

NEWMARKET - Yonge/ Clearmeadow. 3 bedroom detached house, very clean, open concept. Hardwood floors, extra family room. Available immediately. $1750+. 647-309-2199. SINGLE DETACHED home in the heart of Richmond Hill. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1300sq.ft. Freshly painted. Ravine lot. $1950+ utilities. 289-926-0222 NEWMARKET, 4 bedroom house, 2700 sq ft. spacious, newly renovated, 2.5 baths, 5 appliances, large treed yard and decks, parking, non-smoking/pets. Close to amenities and GO. First and last, references. $2,100 inclusive. 905-841-8788. PRICE REDUCED.

Rooms for Rent and Wanted

FREE ACCOMMODATION- Small salary in exchange for child care. Mother and child welcome. Bayview/ Major Mackenize. 905-883-3691

Shared Accommodations

NEWMARKET- DAVIS / Yonge St. $600. Share home, laundry, internet. No smoking or pets. First and last. Available immediately. Call 647-688-9558

Travel & Vacations

REAL ESTATE. NW Montana. Tungstenholdings.com 406-293-3714

for Rent/Wanted

SINGLE OFFICE available in professional office. Thornhill location. Turn-key for professional or Entrepreneur. Call 905-731-1910

Classifieds

GarageSales

Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm • 905-853-2527 • Toll Free 1-800-743-3353 • Fax 905-853-1765 For delivery questions, please contact 1-855-853-5613

ESTATE/CONTENTS SALE Saturday, January 23rd 9am-4pm Sunday, January 24th 10am-3pm 145 George St., Aurora

(south of Kennedy St. West) Antiques, household items, furniture and Christmas decorations

CONTENTS SALE Sun., Jan 24th 9am-4pm 24 Millcreek Cres. (Clark/ New Westminster) Antiques, toys, electronics, collectibles, housewares and more.

LTEPD E H WAN Call 1-800 743-3353 to plan your advertising campaign.

THORNHILL LIBERAL

21 | The Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016

Notices (Public)

The Liberal | Thursday, January 21, 2016 |

ife L stories

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

Jean Murray: ‘Inspiration Lady’ remembered Helped form Helping Hands group in Vaughan to aid needy local families at Christmas time BY ADAM MARTIN-ROBBINS

amartinrobbins@yrmg.com

hen Bob Murray hears Gordon Lightfoot’s tune Inspiration Lady, it always makes him think of his late wife, Jean. “I listen to that and it’s just Jeanie to a T,” he said. “In the song, it goes: ‘She’s always got something on her mind,’ and Jeanie always had something on her mind.” Jean was born Feb. 1, 1959, in Calgary; the youngest of James and Charlotte Cameron’s three children. In 1966, her family moved east, settling in Thornhill. After high school, Jean studied social work at Centennial College and landed a job at the Canadian Mental Health Association, teaching life skills to people who had anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder. While vacationing in Cuba in 1979, she met Bob, a Towers department store manager.

The pair began dating, off and on at first, and eventually married on Oct. 3, 1981. They moved around a bit, but eventually settled in Woodbridge in the mid-’80s. Along the way, the couple had two sons, Patrick was born in 1983 and Alex followed in 1985. Jean, who had bipolar disorder, continued working for a few years after Alex was born, but eventually had to give up her job. She also had to surrender her driver’s licence. “She was good-natured about it,” Bob said. “She’d say, ‘I worked with people who suffered from anxiety and depression and bipolar disorder and I guess I caught it.’” Some days she was full of energy and eager to take on the world, other days she had trouble getting out of bed, Bob said. But Jean refused to let her ill–Bob Murray ness stop her from leading an active, fulfilling life. “She had a lot of grit in her and she wasn’t going to let it defeat her,” he said.

‘She had a lot of grit in her and she wasn’t going to let it defeat her.’

Lstories ife

COURTESY PHOTO

Jean Murray (right) with childhood friend Dr. Sue MacColl. When the boys were young, Jean joined the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) at Pine Grove Public School, where she happily took on any job that had to be done. “If you ever asked her for help or you ever needed anything, she’d be the first one there to volunteer,” said longtime friend Judie Pezzetta, who also sat on the PTA. “No matter what was going on, she would always say, ‘What do you need or what can I do?’ That’s what I really liked the most about her, was her kindness, her thoughtfulness and

always being there when you needed somebody.” In 2005, Jean, Pezzetta and other mothers from the school founded Helping Hands and began raising money to help local families in need at Christmas time. Jean also volunteered in the tuck shop at Etobicoke General Hospital and would take the bus there several times a week. Bob credits that –Judie Pezzetta job with helping her reduce the amount of medication she was taking. “That was the best thing. She

‘She was one of those people that there aren’t enough of in the world...’

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.”

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.

had a purpose and a reason to get up,” he said. “She would go four or five days a week. … She loved to talk to people and she got along great with all the staff.” She was doing so well, in fact, they were planning to visit Ireland in June 2010. In anticipation of that trip, Jean joined a gym and signed up with a personal trainer. “She said, ‘You know, my greatest desire is to be as healthy as possible, to feel as good as I can possibly feel,’” Bob recalled. Sadly, they never made it overseas. Jean suffered a cardiac arrest and died March 6, 2010. She was 51. “It devastated us,” Pezzetta said. “She was one of those people that there aren’t enough of in the world. … She was a wonderful woman and a wonderful friend and I’ll never forget her.” A flag at Etobicoke General Hospital was lowered in her memory. Bob is certain, if Jean had lived a few years longer, she’d have joined the efforts to stamp out the stigma around mental illness that began in earnest with the Bell Let’s Talk Campaign about five years ago. “I think that Jeanie would have been the type of person who would have gone out and talked to people,” he said. “She’d seen it from both sides.”

ONLINE: For more Life Stories, visit YorkRegion.com

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

Home Improvement

Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm • 905-853-2527 • Toll Free 1-800-743-3353 • Fax 905-853-1765 For delivery questions, please contact 1-855-853-5613

Lifenews.ca IWANOFF, Barbara May Peacefully passed away at Hill House Hospice, Richmond Hill on Monday, January 11, 2016 at the young age of 61. Beloved wife of Steve. Mother of Nancy McNeill. Dearest daughter of Ivy Misener and daughter-in-law of Ursula Iwanoff. Sister of Don, Ken and Albert. Long time employee of Tim Hortons (19 years) Richmond Hill. Barb will be sadly missed by her colleagues. Visitation will be held at Elgin Mills Funeral Centre, 1591 Elgin Mills Rd., East, Richmond Hill on Saturday January 23rd from 2 p.m. until the time of funeral service at 3:30 p.m. Barbs family wish to extend their deepest gratitude to the caring and compassionate staff at Hill House Hospice. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hill House Hospice, 36 Wright Street, Richmond Hill. RYMAN, Victor (Retired Richmond Hill Fire Fighter) Peacefully on January 19, 2016 at the age of 71. Beloved husband of Gail. Caring father of Troy (Aileen), Tracy (Fred) and Tiffany (Wade). Loving Granddad of Justin, Andrew, Mackenzie, Brayden, Bryson and Jordyn. Brother of Al. Predeceased by sisters Shirley and his twin Vicky. A special thank you to Barb, Dave, Carmel and Linda. Special uncle to Erica. Vic will be greatly missed by nieces, nephews and extended family. Family and friends may call at the MARSHALL FUNERAL HOME, Richmond Hill on Sunday, January 24th from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Service on Monday, in the funeral home chapel at 11 a.m. Burial to follow at the Aurora Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to Hill House Hospice, 36 Wright Street, Richmond Hill L4C 4A1 would be appreciated. My Dearest, Thomas W. Kennedy Monday, July 1, 1957 - Saturday, December 26, 2015. Passed away suddenly. Thomas was a kind and gentle soul, and will be missed by all who knew him. He will be laid to rest in Newfoundland, a place he truly called home. Love Always, and Forever, Catherine L. Kennedy In loving memory Larry Joseph Smith July 1, 1965-January 25, 2015 One year has passed since that sad day When one we loved was called away A loving nephew so gentle and kind What a wonderful memory you left behind Always in our hearts, Love Auntie Jeanette, cousins Jodie, Walter & families. In loving memory Larry Joseph Smith July 1, 1965-January 25, 2015 Of all the many blessings However great or small To have had you for a nephew and a cousin Was the greatest one of all. Forever loved, forever in our hearts, Auntie Jackie & cousins Bobby, Paul, Stephen, Shawn & families.

In Loving Memory of my dear Son

Larry Joseph Smith

July 1st 1965- Jan 25 2015. We are connected, My child and I, By an invisible cord Not seen by the eye. It’s not like the cord That connects us ‘til birth This cord cant be seen By any on earth. This cord does it’s work Right from the start. It binds us together attached to my heart. I know that its there, Though no one can see The invisible cord From my child to me. The strength of this cord Is hard to describe. It cant be destroyed it cant be denied. It’s stronger than any cord Man could create It with stands the test Can hold any weight. And though you are gone, Though you’re not here with me, The cord is still there But no one can see. It pulls at my heart I am bruised... I am sore, But this cord is my lifeline As never before. I am thankful that God Connects us this way A mother and child Death cant take away! Missed and Loved forever, Mum.