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Aurora’s Community Newspaper Vol. 8 No. 16 905-727-3300 auroran.com FREE Week of February 19, 2008 Rogers gets ACI Aurora Cable Internet, one of the "We are delighted with the acqui- last independent operators of its sition of Aurora Cable and enthusi- kind in Canada, has been sold. astically welcome Aurora and Oak Rogers Cable Communications Ridges residents to Rogers where Inc. announced last week that it has we know they will enjoy the exten- entered into an agreement to sive selection of services that we acquire Aurora Cable TV Limited offer our customers," said Edward subject to CRTC approval. Rogers, President of Rogers Cable. Aurora Cable provides cable tel- "Aurora Cable is an excellent sys- evision, Internet and telephone tem, a perfect fit with our existing services in the Town of Aurora and systems in and around the Greater the community of Oak Ridges, in Toronto Area, and it offers great syn- Richmond Hill, and operates from ergies within our existing Ontario studios on Industrial Parkway cable cluster." South. Please see page 17 Back to drawing board The town is nearly broke. could be false economy. Aurora could be facing a finan- Staff members had identified cial crisis as over the past few capital projects costing an esti- years capital projects have been mated $102 million over the next Dancers from Jaymor Dance Studio entertained a sell-out crowd Saturday night at annual deferred in order to keep the tax four years and with only $60 mil- Mardi Gras festivities held at DiNardo’s Mansion in Aurora. Auroran photo by David Falconer increase down and while council lion in reserve funds there is a may be commended for this, it Please see page 17 Transformer caused blackout BRIEFLY Most of Aurora spent an hour in was able to restore power almost outages. darkness one night last week, and immediately to about 20 per cent PowerStream committed to residents wanted to know why. of the Aurora area through a building these backup feeder According to PowerStream backup feeder line that was lines when it purchased Aurora Cookbook available Inc., the outage was caused by a recently built from the south Hydro from the Town of Aurora in transfomer failure at Hydro One's along Bathurst Street.” November, 2005. The long-awaited Aurora Seniors’ Association cookbook is here. Called “Treasured Recipes”, the book contains almost 120 pages of various recipes from Armitage Transmission station. Two other feeder lines from According to a recording from local notables. “This resulted in a loss of the south are nearly completed PowerStream, it was suggested It’s on sale at R & R Revisited, 95 Edward Street, for $10. power to most of Aurora and which will assist in providing power was going to be off all Among the recipes featured in the book are favourites of Mayor Phyllis Morris, Councillors Newmarket,” a PowerStream back-up power to other areas of night, but in most areas of Bob McRoberts, Alison Collins-Mrakas, Al Wilson and Grace Marsh. spokesman said. “PowerStream Aurora during similar types of Aurora, that didn’t happen. Recipes in the book were compiled by Marie Leone and her three-person committee. Profits from the sale of the cookbook will be used to further projects of the Aurora Seniors’ Association. Longo’s coming to Aurora? A “Mammoth” event Depending on access avail- agreement. food business we are pleased to ablity, Longo’s grocery store The site, which Longo’s would have found a site that meets our An Aurora band will headline an event in March that will benefit people suffering from could be open in Aurora by early anchor, has a connection to a standards for customer service to HIV/AIDS in Africa. “Mammoth” is a group of four Grade 8 boys from Aurora Grove Public School. 2009. retail hardware site to the north Aurora residents”. They are Spencer Schwartz, Liam Beeson, Myles Mundinger and Connor Lynnas-Flynn. The Auroran has learned that and will offer almost 90,000 sq. ft. This week, Aurora Council may They qualified to play in the rock concert March 19. Longo’s hopes to build on a site at of retail and commercial services clear the last remaining planning Michael Frankfort, a teacher at Carrville Mills Public School, is organizing the event called the northwest corner of Bayview including two of Canada’s major hurdles, including the Wellington York Region Live. Avenue and Wellington Street. five banks. Street problem. The concert has chosen the Stephen Lewis Foundation as the beneficiary of their fundraising efforts. This rock concert involves students from the York Region District School However, full access to However, Longo’s requires Nearby, a Catholic high school Board, as well as staff from York Region to perform at the Vaughan City Playhouse. Wellington Street is holding up access east and west onto now under construction, received It is the second annual concert and success, like last year, is anticipated. plans. Wellington and that is currently approval for right-in, right-out, Band members practice together during lunch periods with all their equipment that is In June, 2007, a zoning bylaw holding up progress. access only to Wellington Street, brought back and forth each week to the school. Another band, named Skooks, who are from the Newmarket area have also been chosen was approved and Aurora Council Seen as a perfect fit for and was forced to create a new to perform at the concert. instructed its planning staff Aurora, president Anthony Longo intersection on Industrial Parkway to execute a site plan control noted “after 51 years in the retail North, to handle additional traffic. BARRONS GIFT & FURNITURE WAREHOUSE FABRIC CHAIRS LEATHER CHAIRS 717 VANITY Valencia Tub Pedro Dining Corrina Olive Leaf Available in brown, black, Only cream & red $399.50 Complete with taps! New, lower 25 different models from Parker Cdn. pricing Black & White $399.50 to $1198 Special $198 Compare at $330 $299 compare at $525 $99.75 compare at $180+ 40 Engelhard Dr., Aurora, at Industrial Pkwy. S. • Mon - Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 905.751-0533 • barronshome.com 2 - THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 COMING EVENTS CONTINUING **** a business. Pre-register at the Adult Information Industrial Parkway North from 2.30 p.m. to 8 For the rest of the month of February the Tots (age 0-4 years) bring your caregivers for Desk or call 905-727-9493, Option 4. Seminar p.m. Skylight Gallery in the Town Hall will feature the coffee or tea while you enjoy story and playtime will be held in the Magna Room from 7 to 9 p.m. FRIDAY, MARCH 21 art work of Irene Hurdle presenting the many every Tuesday from 9.30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5 Blood donor clinic at the Aurora Legion. This facets of colour from subtle tones to vibrant hues Aurora Cornerstone Church, 390 Industrial Women’s Centre of York Region, located in is a special Good Friday clinic. Open 10 a.m. to and moody darks. Regular viewing hours are Parkway South. Call 905-841-8883 for further Aurora, day of celebration and inspiration for all 1 p.m. from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Monday to Friday. information. enterprising women, at Cardinal Golf Club. TUESDAY, MARCH 25 **** THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Event will feature speakers, workshops, show- Aurora Public Library, in partnership with Every Tuesday from 9.30 a.m. to 11 a.m. it’s Amnesty International meets at 7.30 p.m. at case tables and plenty of time for networking. Canada Revenue Agency, hosts no-cost income Story and Playtime at Aurora Cornerstone Trinity Anglican Church, 79 Victoria St. For fur- For more information, contact Shelley Lundquist tax clinics with trained community volunteers. Church, 390 Industrial Parkway South. Call 905- ther information, call 905-713-6713. at 905-727-5837, extension 107 or e-mail at 6.30 p.m. in the Lebovic Room. 841-8883 for further details. **** [email protected]. SATURDAY, APRIL 5 **** At the annual Aurora Chamber of Commerce THURSDAY, MARCH 6 The Cancer Killers team of Aurora citizens Every Second Friday, students in Grade 5 to Sponsor-A-Student luncheon at Dinardo's A local World Day of Prayer will be held at will hold a casino night at the Aurora Legion to 8 can gather at Aurora Cornerstone Church, 390 Mansion, 400 Industrial Parkway South, the Christ Lutheran Church, 7 Lacey Court at 7.30 help raise funds for their entry into The Ride to Industrial Parkway South from 7 to 9 p.m. For guest speaker will be former Captain of the p.m. Learn more about Guyana and its unique Conquer Cancer in June. more information call 905-841-8883 or email Toronto Maple Leafs Wendel Clark. Networking culture and heritage by joining Christians in **** [email protected] and Showcase Tables 11:45 a.m. with lunch at more than 170 countries around the world and Aurora Skating Club 2008 Ice Show “Hooray **** 12.30 p.m. Phone 905-727-7262 for tickets. 2,000 across Canada who will gather on the for Hollywood” at the Aurora Community Centre Continuing until April 15 from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23 World Day of Prayer to pray and act in solidarity at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. will feature Canadian Men’s Winter parking restrictions will be in effect. Big Brothers/Big Sisters of York Region Bowl with the people of Guyana. Call Erica Lamm at National Champion Patrick Chan. For further **** for Kids Sake 2008 will take place in Aurora with 905-727-5395 for more information. information, call 289-221-3774. A drop-in centre will operate every Aurora Community Day at the Gateway Café SUNDAY, MARCH 16 MONDAY, APRIL 14 Wednesday at the Community Bible Church on and Lanes. Call 905-895-0289 for more informa- Join David Tomlinson and other members of Aurora Film Circuit presents “The Diving Bell Bathurst Street just south of Henderson from 8 tion. the Aurora Environmental Advisory Committee and the Butterfly” at the Cineplex Odeon Aurora a.m. to 1 p.m. It's open to all parents, grandpar- **** for the third annual Birdbox Build. Bring a ham- Cinemas, 15460 Bayview Avenue. Tickets, at ents and caregivers. For more information e-mail Registration for baseball and softball takes mer and help put together prefabricated birdbox- $10, will be available March 4 at the Aurora Judy Hoffmann at [email protected]. place at the Aurora Recreation Centre from 9 es for placement around town. Takes place from Public Library and R & R Revisited, 95 Edward **** a.m. to 2 p.m. Online registration is underway at 1 to 4 p.m. at the Aurora Seniors’ Centre, 5 Street. Doors open at 6.15 p.m. Scottish Country Dancing every Friday morn- www.auroraminorball.ca For information email Municipal Drive. Register at Info Aurora, 905- FRIDAY, APRIL 25 ing at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church begin- [email protected] 727-8214 or [email protected]. Second installment of interim tax payment ning at 10.30 a.m. No partners are needed and SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24 TUESDAY, MARCH 18 due. beginners are welcome. The York Regional Police Male Chorus will Aurora Public Library, in partnership with MONDAY, MAY 12 **** perform at St. Andrew's Church in Aurora to help Canada Revenue Agency, hosts no-cost income Aurora Film Circuit presents “The Band's Meet at Martha's Table, now in its third sea- raise funds for Afghan relief. Proceeds from the tax clinics with trained community volunteers. Visit” at the Cineplex Odeon Aurora Cinemas, son. Every Thursday from 11.30 a.m. to 1.30 3 p.m. concert in the sanctuary at the corner of 6.30 p.m. in the Lebovic Room. Also March 25. 15460 Bayview Avenue. Tickets, at $10, will be p.m. comfort food and a sense of community will Mosley and Victoria Streets will go to WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19 available April 15 at the Aurora Public Library be available at the hall at St. Andrew's Presbyterian World Services and Development. A hands-on workshop to learn how to use the and R & R Revisited, 95 Edward Street. Doors Presbyterian Church, Aurora. Any funds raised Call 905-727-5011 or 905-727-8773 for more Aurora Public Library’s electronic research open at 6.15 p.m. are directed to other community outreach proj- information. resources will be held at 6.45 p.m. at the library. FRIDAY & SATURDAY, JUNE 6 & 7 ects. **** Pre-register at the Adult Information Desk or Canadian Cancer Society 2008 Relay for Life **** Registration for baseball and softball takes phone 905-727-9493. Seating is limited. at Lambert Willson Park and the Leisure Aurora Rotary Club meets every Monday place at the Aurora Recreation Centre from 9 THURSDAY, MARCH 20 Complex. Call 905-830-0447 for further informa- evening at 6.30 p.m. at Gabriel's on Yonge a.m. to 2 p.m. Online registration is underway at Blood donor clinic at the Aurora Legion, 105 tion and to register a team. Street. New members are welcome. For further www.auroraminorball.ca For information email information call 905-841-1352. [email protected] **** TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge First installment of interim tax payment due. 148 meets the first and third Tuesday of each WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 month at 8 p.m. at 15216 Yonge Street, south of Aurora Chamber of Commerce Networking Wellington. For more information call 905-830- Breakfast at Featherlite Industries Ltd., 100 February 9205. Engelhard Drive, beginning at 7:30 a.m. 22, 23, 29 **** Featherlite will provide a facility tour. March 1 & 8, 2008 Masonic Rising Sun Lodge meets the first THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Thursday of each month at the Rising Sun Canadian Landmine Awareness Week fea- DINNER AND SHOW Temple, 57 Mosley Street, Aurora at 7:30 p.m. tures an information session, 'Disarm' movie $39.95 SHOW ONLY **** and silent auction at the Aurora Public Library $29.95 Robertson Masonic Lodge meets the third from 7.30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday each month at 57 Mosley Street at SATURDAY, MARCH 1 SPECIAL WEEKIND 10:30 a.m. Coffee Club at 9 a.m. and lunch at Registration for baseball and softball in GET-AWAY PACKAGE noon. Call 905-727-3032 or 905-727-1080. Aurora takes place at the Aurora Community **** Centre from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Online registration Dinner theatre admission, Gamblers Anonymous meets every Tuesday is underway at www.auroraminorball.ca. For 1 night stay in a standard night at Trinity Anglican Church, Victoria Street at information, e-mail [email protected]. room and breakfast for 2 people 7:30 p.m. MONDAY, MARCH 3 $199** ••includes all taxes and gratuities **** Blood donor clinic at Our Lady of Grace Progressive Euchre every Thursday night at Church, 16 Catherine Avenue, from 2.30 p.m. to Howard Johnson Hotel, the Aurora Legion at 7:30 p.m. Call 905-727- 7.30 p.m. 15520 Yonge St., 9932. **** Aurora **** Aurora Firm Circuit presents “Emotional Canadian Federation of University Women Arithmetic”, starring Susan Sarandon, Call 905.727.1312 holds monthly meetings at the Aurora Legion Christopher Plummer and Gabriel Byrne, at the for more information with a variety of speakers. There is also a selec- Cineplex Odeon Aurora Cinemas, 15460 and to make reservations. tion of interest groups. Contact Beverley at 905- Bayview Avenue, Aurora. Tickets, at $10, are Doors open at 6:00 p.m. 727-2151. available at the Aurora Public Library and R & R Dinner at 6:30 p.m. **** Revisited, 95 Edward Street. Doors open at 6.15 Showtime approx 8:00 p.m. The Aurora Seniors Evergreen Choir practice p.m. in the West-McKenzie Hall of the Seniors’ TUESDAY, MARCH 4 Centre, every Wednesday from 3.30 to 5.30 p.m. Aurora Public Library, in partnership with York 15520 Yonge St., Aurora www.hojoaurora.com under the direction of Tom Rainsford and Enid Region Small Business Enterprise Centre, pres- Maize. For more information, call 905-841-9706. ents a free seminar for anyone planning to start

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™Trademarks owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations. Please call for upcoming seminar information THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 - 3 Illingworth honoured An Aurora man was one of 26 Ontarians to receive the province’s highest recognition for seniors last week. The Honourable David C. Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, presented one of the awards to 91-year-old Richard Illingworth. The Ontario Senior Achievement Awards recog- nize seniors over the age of 65 who have made signifi- cant contributions to their communities through volun- tary or professional activi- ties. "Ontario's seniors have made, and continue to make, important contribu- Congratulations tions to our province," said Lieutenant Governor Onley. "These honorees are exceptional community to our leaders and it is fitting to commend them and applaud their good works." "Our government is Richard Illingworth, 91, honoured by province proud to recognize some of the unique and outstanding Valentine’s Day contributions made by sen- iors in Ontario," said the Honourable Aileen Carroll, Minister Responsible for Seniors. Mr. Illingworth, a regular contributor to The Auroran, holds the distinction of hav- ing the longest running Gift Draw cable TV show - Our Town - in Canada. He has been hosting the show, seen on Aurora Cable Internet, for more than 25 years. WINNER Mr. Illingworth also has a long history in the Aurora political scene, having served as mayor of the town on two separate occasions. Schnitzels Aurora Seniors our Bridge results specialty

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Marjorie Saunders (left), Promotional Director, Aurora Shopping Centre Merchants Association presents a gift basket to winner Mary Holliday, following a recent contest.

. 4 - THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008

Poor Richard

Financial burden is on the horizon A financial crunch is coming, So prepared you had better be; You can't keep putting things off, The future will hit you and me. - Poor Richard's Scrapbook This is the second in a series of three photographs showing members of the now-defunct Aurora Fire If ever there was a time for sound financial planning, Department. This photo was taken in 1951. In the back row, left to right, are Ken Rose, Cy Holman and it is now, before the municipality hits a real financial Hank Clubine. In the middle row, left to right, are Harry Jones, fire chief; Elwood “No Laces” Davis, Stu crunch and that could happen if council doesn't act Patrick, deputy-chief; Don McCluskey, Doug Knowles, Gord Burling, Harry Squibbs and Clarence Davis. responsibly. In the front row, left to right, are Tom Rank, Alec Higgins, Fred Cousins, Rube Long, Charlie Milne, For too long needed capital projects have been Chester Osborne and Joe Holman. Absent when the photo was taken were Bill Hatfield, Keith Nisbet, Bill deferred to future years in order to bring in a lower and Patrick, Herb McKenzie and Charles Copland. After the third photo appears next week, we’ll tell you more acceptable tax increase. where the pictures came from. Last week we asked if anyone knew where the picture was taken and the Most residents expect services to be maintained and response, so far, suggests the Town Park. Before you think Aurora doesn’t have a fire department any- possibly enhanced without property tax increasing. more, let us tell you, it’s now known as the Central York Fire Services, sharing men and equipment with But with the elimination of the majority of provincial Newmarket. grants to municipalities and downloading of provincial programs to the local level, more and more of the tax burden falls on the property owner. Letter to the Editor In 1993, the New Democratic Party government cut provincial transfers to municipalities by some $300 mil- lion as a result of the Social Contract and Expenditure Control Program. Councillor Marsh knows In November, 1995, shortly after the election of the Conservative government it was announced that three existing programs - unconditional grants, roads grant and northern road assistance - were combined into the what she’s talking about Municipal Support Program. The funding was reduced from $1.4 billion to $887 million in 1996-97 and $666 million in 1997-98 and then To the editor, farm was purchased on Leslie because somebody will get done. the grant ended. Street for $4 million for the undoubtedly be opposed. There's $70,000 for a Provincial grants were also cut to such programs as John Galt's criticism of same purpose. There are other items of Heritage Study, a study of the public transit, water and sewage treatment in addition to Grace Marsh is short, to the There is no record of the interest in the budget; an envi- downtown core. The core has substantial cuts to school boards and conservation point and wrong. As a thought- cash source and, by the way, ronmental co-ordinator to wait never looked so fine and with authorities. ful shareholder of the Municipal the entire project was moved upon a citizen's advisory com- no help from the Corporation. In addition to property taxes, the municipality has Corporation of the Town of forward several years from the mittee. Salary, benefits, space Why do we need a consultant some miscellaneous local revenues such as licence and Aurora and one who would capital forecast because of and equipment; $100,000. It study? permit fees, user fees and charges, fines and penalties, influence others by his writing, politicians' desire to please. looks like the beginning of a A heritage study of the development charges, investment income and special Mr. Galt has a responsibility to Instead of waiting until it new municipal department Southeast Quadrant of town is capital levies such as local improvements. be better informed. Allow me was needed and having the under the auspices of a citizens proposed. The Northeast But with the much of provincial legislation there are themoney set aside to pay for it, it advisory committee. And that's Quadrant cost $45,000. We all restrictions, such as the new licensing provisions privilege. was moved forward and we how Topsy grows. paid for that and what did we remove licensing fees as a source of revenue, and adds Since the beginning of the incurred debt. An environmental engineer get? An award for being the significantly to the municipality's cost of administering budget process, Treasurer In 2007, $80,000 was bud- is needed in the works depart- only municipality to create a the legislation. John Gutteridge has been geted for traffic calming in the ment. A consultant plan pre- Heritage Neighbourhood. I Much the same restrictions apply to revenue from stressing the urgency of restor- Northeast Quadrant. The cost pared and approved but the think that should give us pause. user fees, which some claim is just another form of tax- ing the Capital Reserves. was $211,000. The extra was- engineer to see it through has And a $211,000 traffic calming ation. It is required planning to n't budgeted. been struck from the budget. plan. Development charges are levied by municipalities on forecast capital expenditures In 2007, $991,000 was bud- The mayor's office formerly developers to help defray capital costs associated with and commit funds annually to geted to reconstruct Knowles Engelhart Drive and Allaura had one administrative assis- the new development so that these costs do not become meet costs as they arise. Crescent. $71,000 was added Boulevard need re-construc- tant. Now there are two and in a burden on all taxpayers in the municipality. Funds have been collected to satisfy the demands of half a tion. They were to be done 2008, we will add one spinmas- This has been a significant source of revenue in many in budgets, allocated to dozen residents. The extra together for cost efficiency. The ter. Salary, benefits, space and municipalities, including Aurora, which are experiencing reserves and looted for other wasn't budgeted. Cheques are Boulevard is out to keep the tax equipment. Close to $100,000. rapid growth and development. purposes for years.The being issued as we speak. increase down. If we get a Then the mayor can get her For the financing of the new recreational complex at Reserves are millions in deficit. In 2007, two separate grant from the province, it might Please see page 15 a total cost of $24.28 million, $19 million was to be Unbudgeted spending is lawyers were retained to make raised by the sale of debentures. routine but recent examples a case for wrong doing against THE AURORAN In May, 2005, a 10-year debenture was issued for are familiar. a former mayor. Funds were more than $12 million with an annual repayment of In 2003, a decision on the not budgeted. Costs as yet “Aurora’s Community Newspaper” $1,599. eve of an election, "to save" the unknown. This was based on the assumption that 400 residen- Oak Ridges Moraine, subse- Benefit to the corporation? Published weekly by The Auroran Publications Inc. quently cost $270,000 in legal Zero, zilch, nada and nil. At 95 Edward Street, tial building permits would be issued every year for 10 Aurora, L4G 1W1 years or 4,000 new homes. fees. They were not budgeted. Also in 2007, a third lawyer Any shortfall would require the property taxpayers to On the same night, direc- retained to make a case for Publisher Emeritus Rosemary Schumaker pick up the difference. tion was given to replace brand wrong-doing against an In addition, with the rapid growth of the municipality, new curbs at the corners of unknown person. No budget Editorial Production Ron Wallace Cynthia Proctor there should be concern as to when all the available Maple and Yonge at a cost of allocation. Cost also unknown. [email protected] [email protected] land will be used up and development cease, except for $30,000. Not budgeted. Same benefit to the corpora- Dick Illingworth Main Number [email protected] infilling. In 2003, the Burnett Farm tion. A big zero. 905-727-3300 was purchased for $5.6 million The capital forecast grows. While members of council should be commended for Photography Classifieds trying to keep the property tax increase as low as possi- (site for new Rec Complex). Every year projects are David Falconer 905-727-7128 [email protected] [email protected] ble, it could be false economy. $525,000 was taken from the deferred to keep taxes down. previous year's tax surplus Stuff that panders to special Advertising Facsimile Machine Instructions were issued to staff members to bring in Bob Ince 905-727-2620 a budget with a maximum of a 3.5 per cent increase and which should have been interests takes priority. [email protected] Editorial Department for the capital budget to be capped at the 2007 rate, applied to the following year’s Finally, at a point of emer- Diane Buchanan [email protected] which meant more projects were deferred. budget. gency, a minimum of $460,000 [email protected] Staff members pointed out that over the next four $2.1 million was filched needs to go into reserves as a Editorial policy years capital projects estimated to cost $102 million had from the Water and Sewer tiny step to replace that which been identified and with only $60 million in reserve Reserve fund. It was collected has been lost. The only avail- Opinions expressed by columnists, contributors and letter writers are not necessarily funds there was a large shortfall. for a specific purpose but able resource is the tax levy. those of The Auroran. Letters must include name and phone number, although num- ber will not be published. Names may be withheld assuming a compelling reason to do On a 5-4 vote, council agreed to add two per cent to siphoned off and never We keep buying new land, so. Letters may be edited or refused. All contents protected by copyright. the operating budget to assist in increasing the number replaced. building new facilities, hanging of capital projects to be completed. Half the money to buy the on to redundant properties Advertising policy What is needed is a council workshop on financial land came from Development which could and should be sold Publisher is not liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen planning with a professional facilitator to develop a Charges and Cash in Lieu. The and earning assessment the value of an advertisement. Disputes must be brought to the attention of the pub- lisher prior to the following edition. financial plan for the next five to ten years, or citizens rest was filched. instead of soaking it up. will no longer be able to afford to live in Aurora. Three years earlier another We defer making decisions THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 - 5 Machell’s Corners by Scott Johnston

Front Porch Perspective Britney Spears sighted in Aurora? By Stephen Somerville

Utilizing the above headline was a crude tactic to grab any of the waste heat from the electricity generating process, to operate for longer periods is not necessarily helpful, eco- your attention as I am again writing about one of your least as is done in combined-cycle operation, while in a combined nomic or environmentally sound. This distinction between favourite topics - besides the Town Budget, that is - and if the heat and power (CHP or cogeneration) configuration, as the full-time and part-time operation is extremely important: headline had been "electricity concerns in Aurora", you might name implies, both heat and power are produced from the "Although the operating costs of a simple-cycle system have taken a pass on this column. combustion of natural gas. are marginally higher, the shorter hours of operation and a So, since you are here already, why not stay a while. According to the OCAA brief, "Simple-cycle gas turbines lower initial capital cost means the actual cost to consumers, A few weeks ago I produced a column about electricity are the least-efficient gas technology for electricity genera- both locally and across the province, will be significantly supply and reliability needs of Northern York Region. tion. According to the OPA, simple-cycle gas turbines have lower. Representatives of the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) - an energy efficiency of only 36 per cent…specifically, natural "The proposed northern York Region simple-cycle gener- the agency responsible for ensuring that lights stay on in the gas-fired combined-cycle turbines can have an energy effi- ation is expected to operate approximately (only) 900 hours province - came and made a public presentation to Aurora ciency of 55 to 60 per cent; and natural gas-fired (cogenera- a year, with total annual emissions well below either com- Council in late January. tion) systems can have energy efficiencies of 80 to 90 per bined-cycle or CHP generators. Although I could not attend the meeting, I did review the cent." "Co-generation or CHP projects clearly have a role to play background material submitted by the OPA. They then produced a metric showing that the fuel costs in the Region…but dozens of small CHP plants, operated by In summary, the OPA believes that an integrated solution per kWh of electricity produced is 7.6 cents per kWh for a dozens of owners, with dozens of different needs, cannot be to our power requirements is needed based on four legs: simple-cycle versus 3.0 to 3.4 cents per kWh for a natural counted on to effectively respond to urgent system events in conservation, capacitors, generation and the Holland gas-fired combined heat and power plant. a timely, organized manner. Transformer Station. The brief also contains a table that shows that the green- "Simple-cycle generation is the least costly, most environ- The part of the solution that captures the attention is the house gas emission rate of a simple-cycle natural gas tur- mentally sound, and responsive option to address the specif- generation side of the equation. bines is "more than double that of a combined heat and ic peak demand needs of the region." The OPA want to see a natural gas fired peaking (simple- power plant". Whether it is a simple-cycle or combined heat and power cycle) generation facility of approximately 350 MW in size The following recommendation is therefore made: "The natural gas generating facility that is actually built, one impor- placed in service by the end of 2011. OCAA does not believe that simple-cycle gas turbines are a tant question (among many) for us in Aurora is where does Now that the aforementioned materials and other docu- cost-effective or socially responsible option to meet northern the project actually get built in northern York region. A ments submitted by interested parties are on the town web- York Region's electricity needs." Request For Qualifications has just been issued so we site (under 2008 General Committee Agendas - February 19) The OCAA's preferred options are conservation and should get an idea of the various options shortly. I kindly suggest you check them out for some interesting renewable energy, followed by CHP. Aurora's energy security is important. All of us should be reading. On February 1, the OPA responded to the OCAA brief and following this file closely. The Ontario Clean Air Alliance (OCAA) disagreed with the to the questions posed at the Aurora Council meeting. I quote Stay tuned. proposals put forward by the OPA. at length: Oh yes, before I forget, I think I did see Britney ordering a The OCAA believes that simple-cycle generation is not "It is important to be clear that northern York Region's double-double at the Tim Hortons on Wellington. the best way to go based upon efficiency, operating cost and most urgent need is the supply of electricity during high-cost, green house gas emissions concerns. high-demand periods - roughly 10 per cent of the time or Stephen can be contacted at: Turbines operated in a simple-cycle mode do not utilize 800-900 hours a year. Choosing solutions that are designed [email protected]

Inside Aurora Aurora - The Early Years By Scott Johnston

So, who wants to learn a bit of local history? even the "finished" road was in pretty bad shape. not getting to work on time ("Sorry I was late, boss. I was mauled No, wait! Before you turn to "Bouquets and Brickbats", hear me Bumps, pot-holes, hills, jogs and other natural features were by a bear on my way over from the train station. Oh, and it ate the out. just a hint of the traffic calming measures that Aurorans would see McWhiggins contract I was working on, which had somehow got Our town has had an interesting past, so for those of you new permanently installed in the area 200 years later. coated in honey, so I'll need an extension to finish it"). to Aurora, here's how it all started… But use it they did, and by 1804, the tiny community that had The train moved at a much slower pace in those days, partially Back in the old days, before the introduction of parking restric- become established at Yonge and Wellington became known as due to the need to stop at the creeks along the way to obtain water tions and superstores, the land that would become Aurora was a Machell's Corners, after the area's first shopkeeper, Robert for the boilers. tranquil forest. Machell, who had opened a general store at this intersection. This practice was later discontinued with the introduction of What was to transform the area was Lieutenant Governor John More merchants followed, and soon they had established their both modern locomotives and stage 2 water bans. Graves Simcoe's decision in 1793 to build a road north from the own industries in town, such as gristmills, sawmills, and taverns - The trip from Toronto took two hours, which is coincidentally town of York (Toronto) to supply the fort at Penetanguishene. drive-throughs and donut shops were still a few years away. about how long it takes to find a parking spot at the station today. By the time it was completed in 1796, the road actually only But the method of transportation that really changed our quiet The arrival of the train heralded another big change, when in went as far as Holland Landing, because no one could correctly hamlet was not road travel, but the railway, when in 1853, the town 1854, the local postmaster, Charles Doan (of Doan Hall fame), spell "Penetanguishene". became the "Head of Rail", the final stop on the rail link from gave the town the name "Aurora", after his first choice, "Doan's The name of the new route, Yonge Street, was appropriate for Toronto. Corners", failed to garner any support. a military road, as it was named after Sir George Yonge, the British Today, you can travel by car from Yonge to the GO station in The new rail link brought Aurora even more prosperity. Secretary of State for War. about 30 seconds (15, if you're late for your train). This in turn led to uncontrolled development, and more govern- Ironically, it would be another 16 years before the street was But back then the station, which was at the same location, was ment, and parking challenges, and ever-increasing taxes, and, even used by the military in any major way, in this case to transport in the middle of nowhere. well… troops northwards during the War of 1812. Even after the area had been settled for more than half a cen- The rest, as they say, is history. So, for many years, the main users of the newly-completed tury, the space between the train station and Yonge was still main- road were not soldiers, but travellers and settlers. ly dense forest, home to bears, wolves, deer and other wildlife. Feel free to e-mail Scott at: It's surprising that anyone used Yonge Street at all, because One advantage of this was that it provided a great excuse for [email protected] 6 - THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 Letters to the Editor BRICKBATS Bouquets & By DICK ILLINGWORTH Former councillor criticizes

BOUQUETS to the Aurora Peewee A Tigers on winning the prestigious 46th International Silver Stick Buck for her misinformation Tournament in Port Huron, Michigan, recently. Many teams entered from across North America and it To the editor, to ask if they benefitted from Yes, Councillor Buck, it is a tising. was the first time in 23 years that an Aurora team won the the market. community event. I would not consider that my Silver Stick in the Peewee division. As usual, Councillor Evelyn But, alas, she is an expert The fact that you do not allowance so please get your Buck uses her selective, yet on everything, just ask her. agree does not make it any facts straight. BRICKBATS to dog owners who use Sheppard's Bush as one-sided memory, to confuse When I first started the mar- less a community event. At the end of the last elec- a leash-free park for their pets when the town issues and mislead the public. ket I did pay for everything to do As for me running interfer- tion I did turn the Mantle, as provides a leash-free dog park on Industrial Her expertise on the with the market. ence on the collecting of the you call it, over to someone Parkway North. Call the bylaw enforcement officers to take Farmers’ Market is amazing I had my daughter design a fees I would suggest that you else as I had looked after the action and keep the conservation area clean. considering she never took the flyer that I printed with my own recheck that information and market every Saturday morn- time to visit the market for the money so that I could advertise retract that statement. ing for five months every year. BOUQUETS to the very successful Aurora Christmas four and a half years that I start- a market that council in general Councillor Buck can ask the I was there every Staurday Dream Team headed by Sher St. Kitts and ed and ran the market. did not support. department head if I ever ran morning at 6.30 a.m. to set up Councillor Stephen Granger with the assistance of She never took the time to I paid for the paper and interference. the advertising signs, set up the the crew at Bistro 171 for feeding a Christmas din- come to the market and speak printing. Her information is wrong parking lot and, at times, help ner to 70 people and raising more than $14,000. Cheques for to the vendors or even the time Why, because I felt that this and slanderous to me. I actual- vendors set up their booths. $3,750 each were presented recently to the Salvation Army, to speak to the many Aurora project would eventually help ly collected cheques myself I believed that I should do the Aurora Food Pantry and the Welcoming Arms Ministry. residents who did come to the the downtown merchants and from the vendors and handed those signs to help the market. help to bring a small town feel- them in. Community Event. BRICKBATS to the telephone monsters who call your Nor did she take the time to ing to those in Aurora who The full page ads were run The other reason that I phone number at the most inappropriate hours speak to the area store owners wanted that feeling. only when The Auroran did not turned it over was that I did not and when you pick up the phone, there's nobody have an advertisement for the want to deal with the negative at the other end. back page and then Councillor attitute towards the Market that If buses were on time Ron Wallace gave the Town a you had. BOUQUETS to the member of Aurora Council who will great deal. Perhaps, Councillor Buck, if ask what happened to the Leisure Services maybe they’d be used, The money never came you want to be an expert on the Advisory Committee recommendation last May that from my allowance, so again, market why don't you try run- staff review the memo regarding the reconstruction this reader believes Councillor Buck, do not mis- ning it this year? of the area bulkheads at the new Recreation Complex and lead the residents. The Then I might listen to your To the editor, September and October? issue it as a press release to inform the public when facilities Farmers’ Market did have a comments on the market. NO. Seriously, there is no need are in need of repair. Is this another council secret? budget voted on and approved In regards to Mr. Steger's for this. by the Council of the day to be Nigel Kean letter concerning Aurora's bus I called to complain once BRICKBATS to the federal government for attempting to used for such things as adver- Aurora service, (The Auroran, letters and all I got was a "please collect student loans after the student had died, to the editor, Feb. 12) all I hold" followed by dial tone 30 which often resulted in collection agencies seek- want to say is that perhaps if seconds later. ing to recoup the funds from grieving parents and family the buses ran on schedule, I was purchasing passes members. The government should clean up its own record of which I know for a fact they until they hiked the prices up PLUMBING SERVICE wasteful spending first. don't, maybe more people another $10 in January. (Serving York Region for more than 35 years) would be inclined to take them Why am I paying this BOUQUETS to Aurora's Donovan Boucher who was and help save the environ- insane amount of money for voted the 2007 Come Back Boxer of the Year by ment. buses that are never on FightNews Canada, as the 46-year-old won two Residential–Commercial–Industrial I cannot count how many schedule? eight-round decisions in his comeback after an times since September, I've I've since found other alter- absence of 11 years from the ring. waited in the scorching heat natives to get myself to and or blistering cold for a bus that from school and work [email protected] 905-727-3210 BRICKBATS to Principal Mario Melchiorre of St. is scheduled to show and because of these factors. Catherine of Siena School in Barrie for sending never does. So, why is it that there is no 13-year-old Adam Zussino home because he The "Yonge street" routes more than one person on the dyed his hair blue in support of his hockey team, while his seem to be fairly on time, but bus at a time, you ask? DAMIR VRANCIC teammates who also dyed their hair and attended other not the "in-town" ones. schools were supported by their teachers. And as we all know, weath- Christina Tomasini LAW OFFICE er is certainly a factor, but in Aurora BOUQUETS to Brooke Hamilton, a 13-year-old Aurora BUSINESS LAW, resident who compiled a cookbook "Cookin' in REAL ESTATE, Brooke's Kitchen" to raise funds to fight leukemia WILLS & ESTATES and her other activities to raise funds for The Philip Televise council live Aziz Centre that helps people with terminal illnesses such as To the editor, vised time. AIDS. That would certainly cramp 905-841-6411 I have a solution to the the style of those who play to Providing valued and trusted legal advice since 1983 BRICKBATS to Legal Aid officials if they fund the appeal marathon council meetings in the cameras. of convicted killer Richard Willis, the former Aurora. Also, there would be no Toronto Police officer who was convicted on a Rather than tape the meet- opportunity to edit proceed- first-degree murder charge of killing his lover, Linda Mariani. ing on Aurora Cable Internet to ings, which does happen from His trial cost Legal Aid an estimated $1.3 million even though be shown at a later time, broad- time to time. Can’t get more Make this part of Legal Aid had a ceiling of $75,000 for fees in any criminal cast the meeting live. transparent than that! proceedings. That’s what happens in I suppose though, we may Newmarket. not see much of this council, your work-out BOUQUETS to Kaitlyn Lenchak, a 14-year-old Aurora res- The Newmarket meetings seems they spend a lot of their ident who was selected the 2006 Ambassador for are broadcast live for two hours time in camera, or should we Easter Seals. Since then, she has continued to trav- only, then Rogers switches to say out of reach of camera! el across the province speaking to various groups other scheduled programming. Makes you wonder. about children with disabilities and how everyone can help. And guess what? Very seldom does the S. Lee BRICKBATS to a justice and police system that allows meeting go beyond the tele- Aurora bad cops to continue to collect full pay while on suspension, often for long periods of time, while their case is going through the justice system. The Police Act stipulates they are innocent until proven guilty. Police Chiefs ONUMENTS BY should have the power to suspend officers without pay if they M see fit. HOMPSONS BRICKBATS to a justice system that allowed serial TA New Approach to Memorial Design. Car + Home = * Granite markers and monuments BIG SAVINGS * Cemetery lettering and restoration * Bronze markers and vases Trinity Anglican Church * Serving all cemeteries and nationali- ties Welcomes you * Portrait Etchings 79 Victoria Street, Aurora (905) 727-6101 Quality and Satisfaction Guaranteed LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOUR, STATE FARM IS THERE: Day, Evening and Weekend Appointments www.trinityaurora.ca Providing Insurance and Financial Services Services 905-727-8400 905-727-5421 Sundays 8:00 a.m. *9:15 a.m. *11:00 a.m. 220 Industrial Pkwy S., Unit 37 530 Industrial Pkwy S., Aurora L4G 6W8 Peter Virtanen (Just south of the soccer fields) Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. CLU. Agent, Aurora Thompson Funeral Home is proud to be part of PO58005CN State Farm ¥ Home Offices Aurora, Ontario ¥ Statefarm.caª Service Corporation International (Canada) Ltd. *Church School and Nursery are available THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 - 7 Letters to the Editor Landmines don’t know the difference

To the editor, Due to past civil wars in and further involved with this quences of landmines and issue. by educating others, by con- the surrounding Southern cause. other explosive remnants of I will be holding the above- tacting your Member of My name is Kristin Africa region, Zambia is now Countries around the war. noted information session, Parliament, by signing the Pristupa and I just returned host to a large population of world are producing, stockpil- MAC is a member of the movie screening and silent petition and by donation. from Zambia, in Southern refugees, some of whom ing, using and selling these International Campaign to auction in order to allow com- Mines Action Canada is Africa, on an internship pro- have sustained injuries from indiscriminate weapons of Ban Landmines, a network of munity members to learn a great place to start your gram funded by the Canadian landmines or other explosive war - weapons that may be more than 1400 NGOs in 90 more about landmines, to journey. International Development remnants of war. intended for an enemy force, countries, working for a glob- share my experiences, and to Visit www.minesaction- Agency. I had the opportunity to but that cannot distinguish al ban on landmines. raise awareness and funds canada.org to learn more As part of the Youth meet and work with six between a soldier and a civil- I urge people to learn for Mines Action Canada. about landmines, cluster Employment Strategy, I was refugees from Angola. ian. more about the issues sur- Other events will be held bombs and how you can get hired by Mines Action All of them had previously Between a soldier and a rounding landmines and clus- across Canada during this involved. Canada to spend six months been subsistence farmers, all child. ter bombs, especially about week - see the MAC website Thanks, Aurora! as a Mine Action Program of them were missing one leg Too many civilians have Canada's role in the progress below for more information. Support Officer for the from stepping on a landmine. been injured and killed by for a global ban on land- You can assist the cam- Kristin Pristupa Zambian Campaign to Ban One man was also missing such weapons and it is must mines. paign by educating yourself, Aurora Landmines (ZCBL). an arm. not be tolerated any longer. Knowledge is power, and I Arriving in September, Through a program run by This is a human-made dis- believe that the first step to 2007, I assisted the ZCBL the International Committee aster caused by these making a difference is to edu- with its efforts to address the of the Red Cross, these men weapons, but it is one that is cate yourself. Call me if you would like issue of landmines in Zambia. were brought to the solvable in our lifetime. Not everyone has the a second opinion on your Some of Zambia's border University Teaching Hospital Mines Action Canada opportunity to travel to a RRSP & Investment strategy. areas are contaminated with in Lusaka, the capital, to (MAC) is a coalition of developing or affected coun- landmines and explosive receive new prosthetic legs Canadian non-governmental try to gain first-hand experi- remnants of war as a result of and physiotherapy. organizations (NGO) and an ences, but I'm happy to share Stephen Forsey CIM FCSI armed opposition groups It is by meeting these international leader working my experiences to assist oth- Investment Representative from neighboring countries men, and seeing both the to eliminate the serious ers in gaining the knowledge JONES, GABLE & COMPANY having used Zambia as a pain and hope in their eyes, humanitarian, environmental and interest that is necessary LIMITED (Member CIPF) safe haven. that I have become dedicated and development conse- to gain progress with this www.jonesgable.com 905-726-9343 Hortons would be better downtown To the editor, drive-thru policy. location, especially at their have more than ample park- Like Dick we are near two busiest times, recognizes ing or drive thru allowance Jim Jackson's letter to the of the drive-thru Tim Hortons the traffic congestion creat- when and if council sets a editor remarking on the num- on Yonge Street. ed by the lack of adequate drive-thru policy. ber of coffee shops on Yonge The one at the end of parking and drive thru space It certainly would solve Bathroom Street being problematic Golf Links Drive appears to as a big problem. the traffic congestion prob- received a bouquet from have chosen a very bad The former Price lems created by its current & Kitchen Accessories columnist Dick Illingworth in location traffic wise. Chopper building and lot in location and still keep their the February 12 edition of From their perspective, downtown Aurora looks to be business busy and prof- Tel: (905) 727-6401 8 Industrial Pkwy. S. The Auroran. they have a winning location an ideal location to move this itable. www.nyhp.on.ca Aurora, Ontario Dick commented that he money wise. Tim Hortons to. hoped Jim would come out However, anyone who It could be made into a Pat Ashby when council meets to set a uses the drive thru at this Wendys/Tim Hortons and Aurora

Reader disagrees with Gaertner view Mortgage Solutions that To the editor, 12, The Auroran) claims misinformation. crystal clear). that Scott Johnston's Jan. I am afraid that I have to The rambling rationaliza- Benefit YOU! Wendy Garertner's letter 29th cartoon is overly disagree with her comments tions Wendy attempts to to the editor last week (Feb. critical and based on as the cartoon is reflective use in her letter to justify the of the articles and letters "good works" that council is Not “segregation”, reader says that have been appearing in doing just re-enforce how Debbie Kelly The Auroran over the past accurate Scott's cartoon To the editor, segregation. This is an year and the performance really was. option open to black of councillors we get to see Keep up the good work, Until such time as students. on Aurora cable every other Scott. www.TheMortgageSisters.com black students are leg- week (in High Definition no islated to attend all- Sylvia Weaver less - where how members John Kennedy 905-726-4335 black schools, it is not Aurora of council look and act is Aurora 15085 Yonge St., Aurora

easy way to listen to what your body is energy bar or a snack high in protein, fruc- telling you. tose and complex carbs late in the evening, which will level out their blood sugar until There are other no-no’s that you should breakfast. be aware of when you’re pregnant. One is Alcohol. It causes problems with the There are a number of things you can do development of your baby’s nervous sys- to make your pregnancy the enjoyable tem. Caffeine is another. It has been experience it was meant to be. The first is linked to birth defects. This can be found having a chiropractic check-up to make Dr. Craig Dingman in coffee, cola, black and green teas and sure your nervous system is functioning Baby Talk Part II chocolate (Boo). As well, try to limit your normally so that you have a good pregnan- preservative intake including aspartame cy and much easier labour and delivery. I would like to address some of the ited to 8-10 lbs. It was soon discovered (refer to my earlier issue of Kids-First); This has little to do with back pain but is taboos and misunderstandings often asso- that moms and babies were undernourished your baby will thank you later. Be very crucial for optimal health. I feel this is a ciated with moms being pregnant. One of so the magic number became 24. This is cautious using any type of drugs or med- must in having a healthy pregnancy. the biggest is this whole issue of weight no longer the case. The latest research ications. All have adverse effects on your gain. Moms all over the world secretly indicates that weight gain of 35 lbs or more baby. I should be emphatic here - all drugs The use of herbs such as red raspberry look in the mirror and cringe at the sight of on a high protein diet is healthy as long as cross the placental barrier and affect your leaves makes for a good uterine tonic and the loss of their waist, their “fat” stomach, it is well balanced, does not contain chem- baby. There is no such thing as a “safe may help prevent miscarriage, anaemia and enlarged breasts, swollen feet, and the fact icals or preservatives, and is limited in drug.” aids in fighting infection. Peppermint tea that they often carry drips of their lunch on refined sugars. will help with digestion and nausea, as will their tee-shirt. Let me be emphatic here: One of the most common nuisances of ginger root tea. Other herbs such as You are not FAT, you are PREGNANT!! The other issue revolves around salt. pregnancy is the “morning sickness” thing. Echinacea and camomile are very relaxing Huge difference! Swelling is actually a Moms are often told to restrict their salt Most of this is caused by a lack of blood and should be taken as a hot tea. All these sign of a healthy pregnancy, not something intake. You should realize that Sodium (a sugar - hypoglycemia. After-all, you have are available from your health food store. that should be treated. Retention of fluids part of salt) is very important in the pro- not eaten since 7-8:00 pm the night before is healthy for mom and baby. It is also duction of extra blood volume. Very and your developing baby is literally feed- If you have any questions or would like temporary. Just part of being pregnant! important for a growing baby and a lack of ing all night while you are asleep. Your additional information please feel very it can be disastrous. I recommend that you blood sugar level is dangerously low and welcome to contact me at (905) 841-0400 A generation ago, weight gain was lim- use salt “to taste” and no more. This is an you feel sick. I ask my patients to have an or www.healinghandsaurora.com. 8 - THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 Letters to the Editor Trail system in Aurora is possible: Klaus To the editor, towards environmentally The trails in that develop- sports organizations. Newmarket’s $1,000 lot our present council will supportive undertaking, in ment are also planned to be As well, trails are not levy is only one way. make sure Aurora will catch Thank you for last week’s Newmarket, is one way of connected into the town- seen as part of the town’s That method will trickle up to Newmarket. mention of the trail system financing trails expansion. wide network, so employ- transportation network, and to a near halt when there is Not only that, but by the (The Auroran, Rumours and In Aurora, developers ees could cycle to work. so are funded only out of no more land to be devel- time the funding and opera- Ramblings). pay a development charge Unfortunately, in the past money pools set aside for oped (only re-development tional framework has been I gladly dedicate my towards the development of Aurora has not taken full recreational purposes. will remain). put in place for Aurora’s efforts towards advancing recreational facilities advantage of opportunities My way of looking at a However, what trails network, through the development of the (including trails), but not during the land develop- trails network is that such a Newmarket does have, and teamwork among Aurora “system” into an Aurora- towards energy programs. ment process, to incorpo- network provides an alter- Aurora does not, are under- Council, the trails commit- wide, connected trails net- However, in the context rate trails corrdiors or to native mode of transporta- passes under two major tee and Aurora citizens, work. of selling town-owned build underpasses. tion - active transportation. roads (Davis Drive and Aurora shall have created a Let me take the opportu- lands, Aurora now has a But, Aurora now has a If the trails are in attrac- Green Lane) for its main model for trails network, for nity to set out what is ahead policy whereby buyers of different council. tive environments, away north-south trail, with a third active transportation plan- of us. those lands are now expect- To correct past short- from motor fumes and nois- underpass coming up at ning, that not only The trails to be safe, ed to build according to comings, and to develop a es, and in nature; if trails are Mulock Drive. Newmarket, but many other accessible, and supportive environmentally progressive trails network that allows for in safe environments, away It is to those underpass- communities will want to for health activity, must be standards, as a condition of utilitarian (commuter) as from motorized traffic and es, and not as much to emulate. in dedicated corridors, away sale. well as recreational walking with no need to cross roads Newmarket’s funding mech- from road corridors, as bar- That is a commendable, and cycling from anywhere and rail tracks; if trails can anism, that I look with envy. Klaus Wehrenberg rier-free as possible when cost free, approach that to anywhere in Aurora, we be used to reach any desti- But I am confident that Aurora crossing major roads and should be expanded to pri- shall have to do some retro- nation, such as schools, railroad tracks - which vate land sales, by having a fitting. shopping, library, seniors’ means underpasses or bylaw to that effect. That will mean acquiring centre; and if trails are overpasses; and must not Aurora Council is also trails linkages, cut- linked town-wide, and per- only make it possible but currently considering set- throughs, and even major haps even regionally, then make it inviting for walkers ting aside trails corridors in trail corridor lands or right- Aurora’s citizens will see and cyclists to reach any the town-owned lands that of-ways. value in leaving their cars in destination in Aurora with- are for sale. And we need to work on the driveway, and not just out their cars. Setting aside those corri- eliminating barriers, on during recreational pursuits. That, naturally, is a tall dors was recommended by assuring that walks and For that to happen, the order, considering how built Aurora’s trails committee, rides are not interrupted by trails infrastructure must be up Aurora already is, and for the lands now for sale, motorized traffic. put into place first. how non-connected the cur- which are intended to gen- All of that is possible - Foresight and political rent trails areas now are. erate employment opportu- but it brings funding back will are much needed - and But that is when dedica- nities. into focus. some patience by Aurorans. tion by our councillors The employees who The drawback of Back to funding: there comes into focus. And from work there after the employ- Aurora’s way of obtaining are effective funding mech- what my experiences has ment lands have been funds from developers is anisms that can be utilized, been so far, the councillors developed will then have an that the pool of money other than the moneys that are supportive - they are up opportunity to utilize looped obtained through develop- are generated by develop- to the challenge. trails, to get exercise, and ment charges is used most- ment of lands, and not con- As to the $1,000 per lot experience a bit of nature, ly to finance projects that sidering private/public part- contribution by developers, during break periods. are useful for organized nerships.

Who is Officer Riczard Wojtulewicz?

This is not only an unusual name, but an unusually remarkable officer with York Regional Police since 2003.

2008 P.C. Wojtulewicz or “Wojo” as referred to by I first met him a year ago. He has a passion for his job of purpose has sharpened his focus of the role of a several of his fellow officers, works in # 1 District. He that most of us would aspire to obtain. Born in Durban police officer. He believes that the job of the Uniform is in CIB (Criminal Investigation Bureau) for 6 months, South Africa he came to Canada in 1998. His wife Officer is significant as they have the most impact with but normally you would find this 6’ 6” officer in pla- Tanya is Canadian, and they met while she was study- people. He sees his role as an officer is to help educate ing in South Africa. Shortly after they were married he the public and give them options. As an example with returned with her to Canada. He arrived here with an drugs or speeding, he allows the individual (and extensive 12 year background in policing from South guardian if underage) to understand what they are Africa. He did not continue with that career for his first doing is not in their best interest (&/or their communi- 5 years in Canada. He said he needed to understand the ty’s) and gives them the knowledge of the conse- Canadian culture and needed a bit of a break from the quences. While his ‘information’ is not always adopt- profession. In South Africa policing is a very different ed he believes that most people innately do know what operation than here in Canada and York Region. His is right and wrong. first job, he recalls, was as a concierge in Toronto. He He has a strong belief that the people need to be did his job and gained great insight to the people of the part of the wellness of a Community. The police need city. Later he took a job as a Special Constable with to be connected to the community, and the community TTC and this expanded his understanding of our need to be connected not only with the police but with diverse, integrated culture. each other. If there is an active community then the As I sat in District One HQ, listening to his ‘bad guys’ will soon know they will not be tolerated. answers to my questions, it was so enjoyably clear to His role as an officer is as a facilitator and conductor, P.C. Wojtulewicz or “Wojo” see the passion in his eyes about what he does. He connecting the strengths and lessening the embodies what I would call Community Policing. He weakness of a healthy community. toon “D” patrolling Aurora. has experienced many cultures and sees how fortunate I was impressed by this native South African when we are in York Region. This combined with his clarity Written by Cyndy Skillins

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HWY: 8.3L/100km • 34mpgĦ CITY: 12.2L/100km • 23mpgĦ

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THE GM 160,000 KM WARRANTY REWARD YOURSELF BY THE BEST COVERAGE IN CANADA GIVING UP YOUR OLD CAR. 160,000KM 160,000KM 160,000KM ++ Get $ towards an eligible new GM vehicle when you send your old car to a 5 YEAR POWERTRAIN 5 YEARS OF COURTESY 5 YEARS OF ROADSIDE better place. Visit carheaven.ca or visit your local GM dealer for details.† LIMITED WARRANTYL TRANSPORTATIONL ASSISTANCEL 1,000 Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) New Car Assessment Program. For more information on safety ratings, go to ® www.safercar.gov. Service contract required. OnStar uses existing emergency service providers as well as cellular and satellite technologies. Vehicle electrical systems need to be operating for features to function properly. See dealer for conditions and details. TD Canada Trust licensed user of mark. Visa International Service Association/TD Canada Trust and GM licensed user of marks. †Donated vehicles must be 1995 and older, in running condition, licensed and insured for the previous consecutive 6 month period. For eligibility requirements visit carheaven.ca/utilities/legal.aspx. ¥US government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic determined using Transport Canada approved methodology for 2008 Pontiac Montana SV6 with 3.9L engine and Automatic Transmission and 2008 Pontiac Torrent with 3.4L engine and Automatic Transmission. Pontiac Buick GMC Dealer Marketing Association area only (including Outaouais and excluding Northwestern Ontario). Dealer order or trade may be required. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited time offer which may not be combined with other offers. See your dealer for conditions and det SV6 RWB R7A. **Based onOther a lease 48/48 options month are lease available. for 2008 Pontiac Montana SV6 RWB R7A/2008 Pontiac Torrent R7A. Annual kilometre limit of 20,000km, $0.15 per excess kilometre. Lease APR may vary depending on down payment/trade. A down payment or trade of $2,600/$3,400 and $0 security deposit is required. Option to purchase at lease end is $8,203/$10,954 plus applicable taxes. For the latest information, visit us at 10 - THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 - 11 This month’s business features... Thank you Ab Cox Pontiac Buick GMC, Aurora, Totally NEW ‘08 Malibu The ALL-New for supporting ‘08 Cadillac CTS The car everyone Claims runner up position in 2008 Motor Trend is talking about! Car of the year! SPEEDORAMA 2008 CUSTOM PAINT DIVISION AURORAN

This year’s SPEEDORAMA event was held Feb. 8, 9 and 10 in the Aurora’s oldest and largest automotive dealer Automotive building at Exhibition Place. It was Tracey Cox’s first year advertisers HIGHLAND CHEVROLET CADILLAC 15783 YONGE ST., AURORA 905-727-9444 highlandgm.com competing in this event and she came home with the runner-up trophy in the custom paint division. Tracey’s 2006 Pontiac Torrent has a stunning airbrush job which SPA MADNESS was done by Voodoo Air, and symbolizes the respect Tracey has for vintage vehicles, and her love of AURORA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Presents SALE the family business. Voodoo Air also does many of the masks for the NHL and has even painted the drum kit of Jason Bonham, drummer for Led Zeppelin. Wendel Clark at our Luncheon Meeting on Thursday February 21st, 2008 25% OFF Showcase: 11:45 a.m. Luncheon: 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Program Cost: $35 Members, $40 Non-Members, $30 Students all SPA FILTERS Place: DiNardo’s - The Mansion, 400 Industrial Pkwy South, Aurora and CHEMICALS from Feb. 21 to Feb. 29, 2008 Wed. Feb. 27: Networking Breakfast at Featherlite Industries Ltd. All remaining 2007 Spas are Tues. Mar. 4: Women in Business Luncheon Wed. Mar. 5: Networking Breakfast and New Member Trade Show PRICED TO GO! at the Sports Dome, 7 a.m. - Industrial Pkwy N., Aurora

For more information or to register, please contact the Chamber at Don Smith 905-727-7262 or on-line at www.aurorachamber.on.ca 75 Mary Street, Aurora 905-713-2317 We look forward to seeing you!

Here’s a picture of Ab Cox’s grandson, Alexander, Tracey Cox and her 2006 Pontiac Torrent; Hurry in... enjoying the Xbox gaming station in the back of Runner-up in the FOR THETHE the Project Gotham vehicle that was one of the SPEEDORAMA CUSTOM PAINT DIVISION Everything is on LAST CALL winners. The show was fun and exciting, with BIGGEST lots of interesting displays and booths for car SALE lovers of all ages. DOT SALE There is always something exciting happening • BLUE - 20% at Ab Cox Pontiac Buick GMC... • GREEN - 30% SALE • RED - 50% Congratulations to Jane Young of Aurora, the winner of our EXPERT SKATE SHARPENING • ALL SKI & BOARD PANTS 20%-30% January draw for her choice • ALL HATS & GLOVES - 20% off While you waitwait! of a trip for 2 to Las Vegas, Only We specialize in: the Caribbean or Cancun. $3.57 • Snowboard & Ski Wear With the weather we’ve been Tax included • Racquet Sports experiencing, we’re • Swim Wear sure that it will be a welcome break! 20%20% • Fitness Wear • In-Line Skates • Casual Wear Discount • Snow Shoes on ALL • Nordic Walking Poles Zoo York Lacrosse Equipment 15483 Yonge St. REC CYCLE N’ SPORTS (across from Howard Johnson) 905-841-0949 15483 YONGE ST., AURORA 905-841-5757 Totally NEW ‘08 Malibu “The Car you Can’t Ignore!” HOME STORE Frank Mete ‘for the love of home, garden and self’ Sales Consultant Holly Day hours: Mon. - Wed. 10 - 6 pm 905-727-9444 ext. 239 [email protected] Thurs. & Fri. 10 - 8 pm, Sat. & Sun. 10 - 5 pm www.highlandgm.com 15 Mosley Street Aurora Aurora’s oldest and largest automotive dealer SPORTS 905.726.3535 Highland Chevrolet Cadillac 15783 Yonge Street, Aurora (1 block south of Wellington, east off Yonge) Page 12 Week of February 19, 2008 auroran.com 905-727-3300 Tigers crush Orangeville in three Next! even things in front of a goals or less. Watts) 12.17 Overtime If you plan to attend any of hometown crowd. The best of seven con- the games in the next round of If not for the overtime test offers much promise, Third Period A: Mark Mayea (Novak) Discount playoffs at the Aurora heroics of Mark Mayea, and could quite literally 0:55 Community Centre, you might Orangeville may have man- prove to decide who may go A: Cody Smith (Yearsley, RATES be advised to get there early. aged to steal a game at on to the North Division's McLaughlin) PP 4.38 GAME THREE without discount Aurora, having just eliminat- home and even the series. champions bracket. A: Mike McLaughlin (Novak) AURORA 6 ed the Orangeville Crushers in Fortunately for the Tigers 7.59 ORANGEVILLE 1 SERVICE. three straight games, now meet the Mayea goal on a redi- GAME 1 their up-the-road rivals, the rected point shot early in the AURORA 7 GAME TWO First Period It’s no accident more Newmarket Hurricanes, in the first period of overtime lifted ORANGEVILLE 2 AURORA 3 people trust State Farm next round of playoffs. Aurora to a 3-2 win. ORANGEVILLE 2 A: Sam Yearsley (Thorburn, to insure their cars. Call today. And the place will be Sunday in Aurora, game First Period (Overtime) Harbach) 1.07 packed, with fans from both three reverted to much of A: Matt Thomson (Mayea, towns. the same as the first, as the A: Cody Smith (Evans, First Period Dupont) 15.34 Newmarket should be ready. Tigers scored six unan- Yearsley) 3.09 They received a bye into the swered goals heading to a A: Mike McLaughlin O: Colin Moberly (Mantha) Second Period playoffs so have been resting 6-1 win and a 3-0 series vic- (Mayea, Siekris) 7.43 9.01 while Aurora cut its teeth on tory over the Crushers as O: Robert Visca A: Matt Thomson Orangeville. they made short work of (Connolly, Vassos ) PP 9.57 Second Period (Thorburn, Harbach) PP 9.00 Allan Cruickshank CFP FLMI, Agent Dates have yet to be set for their opening round oppo- A: Jordan Watts A: David Morley (Sardella, 300 Wellington St E the playoffs, but Newmarket will nents. (Thorburn, Siekris) PP A: Cody Smith (Novak, Novak) PP 9.55 Aurora, ON L4G 1J5 surely host the first game of the The playoff duel between 18.55 Dupont) 12.39 A: Matt Thomson (Smith, Bus: 905-727-2749 www.allancruickshank.com best of seven series, given their Aurora and Newmarket O: Nicholas Hewko (Moberly, Dupont) PP 12.11 finish in the standings. promises to be exactly that; Second Period Crilly) 13.37 A: Mark Thorburn Sunday, Aurora got rid of the a duel, as although the A: Jeff Harbach (Smith) (Harbach, Watts) 17.42 Crushers in three straight Hurricanes bested the O: Colin Moberly (Crilly) 19.00 games, dumping Orangeville 6- Tigers in the regular season 0.46 Third Period 1 at the Aurora Community with a head to head record A: Cody Smith (Yearsley, Third Period Centre. of 4-1-1, four of those Morley) 11.06 O: Kyle Manduck (Mathers, State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Canadian Head Office: Aurora, Ontario However, they needed over- games were decided by two A: Jeff Harbach (Evans, No scoring Ezekiel) 4.46 PO50068CN 02/05 time to get by Orangeville in that town for the second game. As the Tigers began the playoff series Thursday night at home, they got exactly what they wanted for Valentine's Day: their starting goaltender. The gift of Aaron Barton's 4HANK9OU
return from the injured list proved to simply add yet anoth- er weapon to a Tiger squad that /NBEHALFOFTHERESIDENTSOF going into the start of the play- offs had only continued to gel as a lethal cohesive unit. .EWMARKETAND!URORA THANKYOU Barton was between the pipes for all three games.
  ÿ  ÿ  Game one in Aurora TOTHEVOLUNTEERS CHARITIESAND Thursday night quickly became ÁÂÿ
  the Cody Smith show, as the young forward who only ÃÄÄ ÿ ÃÄ COMMUNITYGROUPSWHOAREPARTOF appeared in four games during
     ÿ ÿÿ ÿÁ the regular season scored three .EIGHBOURHOOD.ETWORKANDTOALL goals en route to a ÂÃÄÄ Ä   ÿ   dominate win over the visiting  Crushers 7-2. THOSEWHOAREWORKING Game two began much dif- ferently as Orangeville tried to ! "! !!! "# "!$ TOGETHERTOASSIST THE DIGNITY RESIDENTSINNEED I DESERVE &ROM "ELINDA 3TRONACH AND In every smile and every interaction, THE .EWMARKET !URORA you’ll find the dignity you deserve. #ONSTITUENCY /FlCE 4EAM We are proud of all the comforts and conveniences we offer, but what we are most proud of, is our staff. They were chosen for their compassion, as much as their skill. "ELINDA “The services are great and the activities are wonderful, but the way I am treated is the greatest gift of all.” Park Place Manor retirement residence 342/.!#(-0 15055 Yonge St., Aurora, ON WWWBELINDACA www.chartwellreit.ca Call 905-727-2952  9ONGE3TREET !URORA /NTARIO,'-   /FlCE(OURS-ONDAYn4HURSDAY AMTOPMPM PM&RIDAYAMTOPM THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 - 13 Potters Guild lease causes controversy

The Pine Tree Potters He was opposed by 1979 but it really started in all over again with much the www.youngdrivers.com Guild leases 1,500 square Councillor Evelyn Buck who 1974 and were accommo- same arguments. feet of space in the base- pointed out that the Potters dated in the basement of the Councillor Evelyn Buck COURSE STARTS ment of the Aurora Public were being treated different- old waterworks building on led the attack against the Mar. 8 - 4 Days Library and their existing ly than other community Yonge Street. proposed increase claiming five-year lease has expired. groups using town-owned They took their name the Potters were an arts MAR. 12 - 4 Days The Potters pay the town facilities such as Theatre from a large pine tree in front group and had never asked $6,600 per year excluding Aurora and the Aurora of the building. the town for support and 905-726-4132 hydro. Soccer Club By 1984 the Guild had were being singled out, even Under the existing agree- Councillor Bob McRoberts moved into the basement of though the staff had recom- ment the Guild may extend also opposed the proposed the Church Street School mended the lease be extend- the lease by an additional three per cent modification and with larger facilities ed on the same terms. Aurora five years providing terms on the basis it was higher members produced every- She asked what they had are agreeable to both par- than the cost of living thing from wine goblets and done to deserve such treat- ties. increase. casseroles to figurines and ment and why they were Staff members recom- Other committee mem- bird baths. being treated differently. mended the lease be bers were satisfied with the The Guild had acquired Other councillors argued Kids Club renewed for another five- proposed income on the six pottery wheels, two kilns, that other groups like the ice year period at the Aurora basis it was necessary to slab roller, glazes, a spray users were being charged a Ages: 6 – 12 years old Public Library at a flat rate of start somewhere and similar booth, wedging blocks and a higher fee and a pricing poli- $6,600 per year plus hydro. modifications would be con- library of books. cy was being developed. Cost $5.00 per child However, at the general sidered when other leases When the new Library It was suggested that no $10 max per family committee meeting, come due. opened they moved into the action be taken until the poli- Councillor Stephen Granger Staff members were basement where they are cy had been discussed, 3rd Sunday Each Month suggested the lease be directed to negotiate with the currently accommodated. while others said the renewed with a modification Potters Guild. When the committee increase had to start some- Includes: music, games, crafts, to include a three per cent The Pine Tree Potters report came to council where. drama, puppets, large screen DVD videos, and more per year inflationary clause. Guild was incorporated in Tuesday, the debate started Councillor Buck recom- mended the issue be Special FAITH & LIFE lessons each session deferred until the pricing pol- Speeches made Aurora famous icy had been adopted but Includes: One Hour of Bowling & Snack could not get a seconder and Aurora has been the scene While the date is uncertain, Canadian political thought. the debate continued. Where: Gateway Cafe & Lanes of many stirring political events the Hon. George Brown deliv- In 1867 Blake was elected It was pointed out that the 210 Edward St., Aurora over the years going back to ered his famous "Rep by Pop" to both the House of Commons three per cent increase was the Rebellion of 1837 and the speech in the old Aurora as a Liberal and to the Ontario approximately $180 a year march of the Rebels, led by Temperance Hall around 1837. Legislature. which was compounded and Hosted by: William Lyon Mackenzie, down In his speech, Brown He served as Premier of that staff negotiate with the Yonge Street through Aurora to expounded the theory that Ontario briefly in 1872 and Potters. The Gathering Place Montgomery's Tavern in North made Confederation possible. resigned to hold his seat in The recommendation was Toronto where they were By the Act of Union, both Upper Parliament. adopted on a 7-2 vote with defeated in December, 1837. and Lower Canada had equal He left the Liberals in 1873, Councillors Buck and For more info call 905 841-0172 or 905 727-2900 Mackenzie was a fiery, tem- representation in Parliament. joining the Canada First Party McRoberts in opposition. peramental ideologue and agi- But Ontario was growing and announcing his new loyalty tator who was editor of the rev- faster than Quebec and wanted in his famous Aurora Speech. olutionary newspaper, the more representation in a united The speech, 21 pages in Colonial Advocate, which was parliament. Basing representa- length, took two hours to critical of the privileged upper tion on the population of deliver. class known as the Family the area made the union Blake said he believed the Compact that held power in eventually possible. future of Canada depended 705-733-1003905-952-0300 Upper Canada. Born in Scotland, Brown largely on the cultivation of a Aurora/NewmarketBarrie / Innisfil Many local residents were came to Toronto and founded national spirit at a time when sympathetic to the rebels but The Globe (now the Globe and the struggling nation was only there were some patriots in the Mail) which had a great influ- seven years old and not doing village, including John Mosley, ence on the Liberal Party. He too well. who learned of the rebellion was elected in 1851 and played He wanted a national feel- and risked his life by riding to a strong role in Confederation. ing, a federal system for the Toronto to warn of the impend- He was appointed to the British Empire, Senate reform, ing attack. Senate in 1873 and devoted compulsory voting and propor- The marchers saw it as a much of his time to the news- tional representation. peaceful mission but others paper until he was assassinat- "We are engaged in a very saw it differently. ed by a disgruntled ex-employ- difficult task, the task of welding The militia was called out ee. together seven provinces and the rebels were routed at In 1874, the rafters of the which have been accustomed Montgomery's Tavern. Several Aurora Drill Shed (now the to regard themselves as isolat- of the marchers were arrested, Armoury) shook as the crowd ed from each other, which are including Aurora’s Charles applauded the Hon. Edward full of petty jealousies, their Doan. Blake who defined a new provincial questions, their local He was released from national viewpoint for the interests," he said. prison in May, 1836, and, while Liberal Party. Blake returned to the imprisoned, carved two small The Canadian Historical Liberals in 1875 and was party boxes which at one time were Review reported at the time leader from 1880 to 1887 when on display at the Aurora that there had been few political he was succeeded by Wilfred Museum. speeches in Canada which Laurie. Doan was Aurora's first had exerted a wider influence He left the party in 1891 in Reeve when the hamlet on Canadian popular opinion opposition to the platform of became a village in 1863. as it gave a real stimulus to Reciprocity.

It was written by former Aurora resident Elizabeth Milner and featuresfeatures numerous stories and photos relating to that 20 years of Aurora growth. Only $19.95 plus GST We are located R&R at the corner Revisited 62826600 of Edward Street 95 Edward St. and Harrison Avenue 905-727-3300 14 - THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008

Members of the Aurora High swim team whoop it up following a successful day at a recent swim meet in the City of Vaughan. Swimmers from Aurora High placed first overall at the York Region championships. A total of 37 Aurora High School students competed at the two-day event. Aurora High school swimmers win York Region championship Swimmers from the following events: first in the 100 metre The 400 m Freestyle Aurora High School swim freestyle, second in the 50 Relay team of Graham team placed first overall at Girls' Open Division metre freestyle, and sec- Mitchell, Desi Burke, the York Region swim ond in the 200 metre Matthew Smith, and championships held at Ania Batko finished first freestyle. Matthew Huetl finished Vellore Village pool recent- in the 100 metre freestyle, Graham Mitchell fin- third and qualified for ly. second in the 100 metre ished fourth in the 50 OFSAA. A total of 37 Aurora butterfly and third in the metre freestyle and fourth Robyn Toffolo is the High School students com- 200 metre freestyle. in the 100 metre back- swim coach of the high peted at the two-day event Andree Payne finished stroke. school team. - eight Open swimmers, 25 fourth in the 200 metre High School swimmers, freestyle. and 4 SWAD (swimmers Kirsten Mitchell finished with a disability). sixth in the 50 metre MOON GARDEN There were 29 teams freestyle. from across York Region at The 200 metre Medley RESTAURANT Since 1969 the meet. Relay team of Kirsten SPECIALIZING IN Eight Aurora High stu- Mitchell, Morgan Ontario’s Healthy Restaurant Program CHINESE FOOD dents qualified for OFSAA Pulchinski, Ania Batko and 2007 FAMILY DINING (provincial swim champi- Andree Payne finished first Award of Excellence is presented to: BUSINESSMEN’S LUNCHES onships) being held at the and qualified for OFSAA. Moon Garden Etobicoke Olympium in TAKE OUT OR DELIVERY March. Boys' Open Division Fully Licensed under L.L.B.O. 15229 Yonge St., Aurora The following swimmers Just south of Wellington. Parking in behind. 905-727-3101 qualified for OFSAA in the Matthew Huetl finished

AURORA MINOR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION Sunday, Feb. 17th, 2008

McGowan 1G, Alex Dunn 1G, Kyle Ozols 1A, Brett Richardson 1A.

House League 806 Cosentino Produce 2 - Lucas Cristillo 1G, Jonathon Alcock 1G, Alex Payne 1A. 803 Pizzaville 2 - Clayton Arnold 1G, Tyler Jensen 1G, Chase Riddell 1A, Gianluca Sampieri 1A, Braden Drummond 1A, Sean Maule 1A. Atom 802 Wait's Bathroom Plus 5 - Christian Avolio 1G 1A, Mario Rotundo 1G, Jack Doty 404 Tilemaster Colorado 4 - Patrick Bourrie 1G 2A, Christian Baggio 2G 1A, Dennis 1G, Wes Seminara 1G, Liam McGoldrick 1G, Anthony DeCesare 1A, Mark Tanel 1A, Paul Semenovych 1G, Nick Armour 1A, Jason Omand 1A. 406 Ab Cox Pittsburgh 3 - Michael Tuck 1A, Charlie Still 1A, Adam Clark 1A. 807 Backyard Pool & Spa 0. Imseis 2G, Randy Sutton 1G, Nicholas Scougall 1A. Minor Midget Minor Bantam 901 ReMax Barb Blazer Calgary Red 2 - Matt Volkmann 1G, Peter Durst 1G 1A. 902 Team 708 1 - Mathew Stewart 1G, Dylan Gaudet 1A. Team 702 1 - Matthew Hart 1G, Aurora Cable Boston Gold 1 - Christopher McGill 1G, Matthew DeSousa 1A, Neil Kyle Couglin 1A, Wesley Howe 1A. Gaston 1A.

Bantam 904 Optimist Club of Aurora Colorado Burgundy 1 - Anthony Marsillo 1G, Chris Dynes 1A, Marlon Young 1A. 905 Laurion Law Office Toronto Royal 1 - Sean Ellison 1G, Kyle MacCallum 1A. 801 I.O.O.F 4 - Kyle Rojas 1G, Aaron Nusbaum 2G, Brandon Connolly 1G. 808 3 - Kenton Gamble 1G, Tanner Brewer 2G 1A, Jake Hindley 1A, James Phillips 1A, Adrian Tobin 1A. 906 Wood Brothers Drywall Pittsburgh Black 3 - Dylan Lastuk 1G, Grant Wood 1G, Matthew Raponi 1G, Ryan Bagshaw 1A, Jakub Sykora 1A, Brendan Beatty 1A. 903 805 CAA 5 - Spencer Palmer 2G, Michael Vance 1G, Stephen Newby 2G 1A, Manhattan Trophies Ottawa White 1 - Devin Scudds 1G, Michael Coggin 1A, Nick Gianfranco Galluzzo 1A, Scott Sturges 1A, Jaret Meron 1A. 804 Danny's Boys 2 - Taran Orsatti 1A. THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 - 15 Novices eliminate Markham in three Like the Aurora Tigers in Markham remained at the end of the first out a 4-3 victory. out with a spectacular toe sion was thick and the the Provincial Junior A undaunted and continued period. Again Frost scored save to preserve the Tiger Tigers responded, con- loop, the Novice AA Aurora to pressure the Tigers net Starting the second peri- twice, with singles going to victory. trolling the puck and ensur- Tigers took a page out of throughout the period but od the Tigers seemed to Graydon Belgue and As the Waxers called a ing their were no further their playoff book and strong goaltending by realize they needed to win Thomas Wilson. last minute timeout and opportunities for the elmininated the Markham Brady Sarazin was the dif- the game and they came The game began tenta- pulled their goalie, the ten- Waxers offence. Waxers in three straight ference. out with a vengeance. tively with neither team tak- games. Following a scoreless As the defence began to ing control and both teams And will now meet - you second period, Thomas further control the Waxers quickly collapsing on loose guessed it - TNT from Wilson jumped on a loose attack, the forwards put it pucks. Head Newmarket. rebound and continued to into high gear. With few shots and no In the second round of bang away at it until he With the game in hand real scoring chances the the Ontario Minor Hockey found the back of the net. the Tigers made no mistake first period remained Achey? Association playoff, Aurora With fewer than five min- in the third period. uneventful. had little trouble with utes remaining, Robert Two minutes into the However, that was not Markham, defeated them in Stewart made a great toe final stanza, a determined the case as the second Balchen BOOK NOW three. save to keep the Waxers off Futterer single handedly period began with a boom. 905-836-2202 Tigers and the Waxers the scoreboard. wove his way through the By the end of the sec- Chir opractic tied the season with 42 The second game was Markham defenders to ond, Aurora led 4-0. points and split the season no contest as Aurora rolled score a picture perfect goal. But Markham wasn’t out series 2-2-1 up a 7-2 win. Frost fed the puck to of it yet as they fired three so the series was Morgan Frost scored Kalmisto, who finished with goals in 10 minutes to pull believed to be an even one. twice for the winners, with the final Tiger goal. within one goal and the Waxers started quickly singles going to Philip Robert Stewart started Tigers were back on their but Aurora saw an opening Wolanski, Josh Brecht, the game in the Tigers net heels. and went ahead by a goal Thomas Wilson, Brady and Brady Sarazin picked Without question, before the game was a Futterer and Mark Kalmisto. up the back half to get the Robert Stewart made the BROKERAGE minute old. While Aurora appeared win. play of the game when a MARTIN READ to hold the upper hand in It was a bit closer in the puck that had tie game writ- Jonathan Malowney got 905-841-1030 the marker. the game, it was tied at two final game as Aurora eked ten all over it was kicked HONESTY, INTEGRITY 416-460-0453 Good old fashioned hard work!! Sales Representative www.martinread.ca Buck defends Councillor Marsh Wellington Medical From page 4 It is in the process of being of politics. viding the resources to protect message out to the community. reversed by the mayor and her There is no fairy godmother the assets of the corporation. Walk-in Clinic They are talking about a faithful acolytes. out there with gold dust to Grace Marsh knows where- newsletter. Some are the same people sprinkle at our feet. off she speaks. She states what Dr. John Fitzsimons • No Appointment Required That's just a sample of the who made the foolhardy deci- We own a corporation • Travel, Wart and Acne Clinic she believes is in our best inter- Dr. Anthony Nguyen stuff considered in the five sions that caused the deficit in worth billions. We have a $23 • Online Appointment est and she does meet the Now accepting months we have been taking the Capital Reserves. million annual budget. We have commitment she made in the new patients Book at www.medhelp.ca the administration budget apart They will no doubt succeed an obligation to take care of last election. and putting it back to reflect in convincing people of their what we own. People should political priorities as opposed to canny management of the worry more about profligate 126 Wellington St. W. ¥ 905-841-1633 Evelyn Buck New extended hours corporate needs. town's affairs. That's the nature spending and less about pro- Aurora (Corner of Haida Dr.) Enter via PHARMASAVE PHARMACY In one area only has the treasurer repeatedly pleaded. The reserve deficit is critical. Until Grace Marsh gave her motion, his advice was being ignored. Grace Marsh is not respon- sible for decisions of the past. She is the responsible per- son John Galt thought she was when he cast his vote. I seconded her motion and three others voted for it. Bob McRoberts, Alison Collins- Mrakas and Wendy Gaertner. van Nostrand & Partners Professional Corporation CERTIFIED GENERAL ACCOUNTANTS

is pleased to offer our 10th Anniversary of In Timbits Hockey, kids learn that there’s more to hockey than just playing the game. It’s also a fun way FREE SENIORS’ TAX PREPARATION to make new friends and discover a love for the (Individual maximum gross income $16,000.00) game. Tim Hortons is proud to support 210 children (Family maximum gross income $30,000.00) who play Timbits Hockey in Aurora - where making new friends, and discovering a love for the game is THURSDAY, March 6, 2008 all part of the drill. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY The first goal is having fun. 905-727-8046 ext. 21 15054 Yonge St., Aurora (Yonge and Reuben) © Tim Hortons, 2007 16 - THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 Klees opposes prayer removal Aurora resident and Klees added that Newmarket-Aurora MPP Simcoe’s mentor was the Frank Klees isn’t in favour of famous abolitionist and removing the Lord’s Prayer British Member of from the daily opening exer- Parliament, William cises of the Legislature. Wilberforce, whose progres- In response to Dalton sive, anti-slavery movement McGuinty's call to strike an was rooted in a biblical all-party committee that Judeo-Christian inspiration. would consider removing the "We all acknowledge and prayer Klees said he would celebrate the multicultural "resist any such attempt to diversity of our province, but tamper with the historic tradi- to eliminate such an impor- tions of the Parliament of tant part of Ontario’s spiritual Ontario.” and parliamentary heritage Klees said he has no that is the Lord’s Prayer issue with recognizing the would definitely work against multi-faith character of that same principle of inclu- Ontario, but that “inclusive- siveness. ness means the inclusion of “This would only result in the Lord’s Prayer that has a polarization among been an integral part of our Ontarians and would do parliamentary tradition since untold damage to the com- it was first established in prehensive character of our 1793 under Lieutenant province’s historic character Governor John Graves and dynamic, contemporary Simcoe.” cultural mosaic,” he said. Part of the crowd appearing at the Aurora Town Hall last week for Heritage presentations is shown here. A total of 21 Heritage Designation plaques were given to Aurora residents by the Aurora Heritage Committee signifying various properties that have heritage value. Recipients were treated to cake follow- ing the ceremonies. Auroran photo by David Falconer Light up your life! RUMOURS AND RAMBLINGS Lighting ¥ Fixtures ¥ Fans Great Prices Is this another council secret? 220 Industrial Pkwy. S. 905-841-2832 Call for hours Last May the Leisure Services Advisory Committee received includes a request for more police officers. a memo from staff members regarding the reconstruction of the The approved 2007 budget includes funds for the hiring of 67 arena bulkheads at the new Aurora Recreation Complex. police officers plus 35 civilians and the 2008 budget still has to The committee requested staff to review the memo and make approved, but contains additional police officers. For All Your Mortgage Needs necessary adjustments so that it could be published as a press It's hard to believe but back in February, 1993, Police Chief •Residential and Commercial Made Easy • Debt consolidation and Business for Self release to inform the public and that in future the public be Bryan Cousineau said he needed to hire additional police officers advised when facilities were in need of repair. that year. Ed Schlotter, Mortgage Consultant The report was received by the general committee without However, the Police Association had a different opinion. Serving Aurora question or comment, which was rather odd as you would think Association President Paul Bailey claimed the region must 905.727.0112 some member of council would want to know why the bulkheads hire 50 new officers immediately to protect officer and public www.mortgageintelligence.ca/edschlotter needed repair in the new facility and if they were covered by a safety. © 2007, Mortgage Intelligence Inc., all rights reserved. ® Registered trademark of Mortgage Intelligence Inc. warranty. He pointed out the region hadn't hired any officers over the What happened to the press release or is this another coun- previous three years although it did hire 200 officers in the three cil secret? years leading up to 1990. He added that the York department had fewer officers per SHOPPING SEMINARS OF THE PAST capita and spends less on policing per capita than any major force in the province. With the cost of living increasing and the gap widening He launched a public campaign and issued an appeal asking between those who have and those who have not, even the residents to contact councillors and demand the region hire 50 reduction of the GST from seven to five per cent isn't much help more cops. to grocery shoppers on a fixed income. Aurora Mayor John West said he received two calls, one sup- Back in 1993 Aurora businesswoman Marian Shield was a porting the association while the other backed the Chief's posi- • Manicure • Solar Nails smart shopper and conducted seminars on shopping and provid- tion, and other area mayors reported similar results, so there was • Spa Pedicure • UV Gel Nails ed helpful hints such as preparing a shopping list of sales and no hiring that year. • Bio Gel • Acrylic specials and how to watch for unadvertised in-store deals. • Air Brush Design She advised that shoppers should stick to their list and don't DID HE DO IT? Walk-ins welcome succumb to impulse buying, such as so-called specials or colour- fully packaged items that are strategically placed when your bas- Last October, at Aurora’s Jonathan's Restaurant, Newmarket 130 Hollidge Blvd. • 905-727-6030 ket is empty. resident Paul Dawkins tried to set a record to get himself into the She also suggested checking best-before-dates on perish- Guinness Book of World Records. able and non-perishable items. The record at that time for carving a pumpkin was 24 seconds Her message is just as true today as it was then, but her help- but Dawkins believed he could do it faster. ful seminars are missed. As president of Sculpture Connections, he has created some incredible sand and snow sculptures all over the world. WAS THIS FORGOTTEN? He held the record for building the world's largest sand sculp- If your car is ture, a design that covered six acres and needed 70,000 tons of In March, 2005, Aurora’s Rebecca Beaton addressed the sand at Wasaga Beach. Leisure Services Advisory Committee ro request the addition of At the Jonathan event, he carved and painted pumpkins that colder inside than a category to the town's Civic Awards to be called the Good were to be sold with the money donated to children's charities. Neighbour Award. Did he break the record? out, it’s time She suggested that this be an annual award and presented to an individual who on an ongoing basis assisted a neighbour(s) WHAT DO STUDENTS CARRY IN BACKPACKS? by showing kindness, generosity and warmth in various ways. to visit... The committee agreed to accept the proposal in principle and Many Aurora students, both elementary and secondary, with suggested that an ad hoc committee be established to develop packs strapped to their backs, look as if they are about to set out criteria for the Good Neighbour Award. on a month-long safari into the wilderness instead of going to The ad hoc committee would be comprised of two members school for the day. YORK SPRING & RADIATOR of the Leisure Services Advisory Committee, a citizen and a staff Backpacks seem to have become a status symbol as the big- to have your heater flushed! member. ger and more fully packed it is must mean something. It was recommended that Dawn Irwin and Stephen Dupuis be It's almost as if there is a competition as to who can carry the Heater flushes that actually work, appointed to represent the committee and Rebecca Beaton the largest and heaviest backpack. especially for newer Taurus & Dodge. citizen member. In the old days, students carried a couple of books home in a What happened to the suggestion? schoolbag for their homework and everything else was kept in a locker at the school. IT’S COOL TO BE HOT! THIS DOESN'T HAPPEN TODAY It is doubtful today if the students know exactly what they have in their backpack which begs the question, what do they carry in 60 Industrial 905 Today almost every York Regional Police Department budget their backpacks? Pkwy. North, Aurora 727-3121 THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 - 17 Senior Scape Town budget talks back to square one From page 1 that if the report was adopt- large shortfall. ed, it was a budget decision At a recent general com- and if there was concern, By BRIAN WARBURTON mittee meeting after a long the issues should be discussion and on a 5-4 deferred for further budget vote, it was agreed to discussion. approve an increase in the Councillor Grace Marsh, New cookbook tax levy by a dollar amount who had introduced the of $460,000, or two per motion at the general com- cent, and that the additional mittee, argued that the issue is now on sale funds be specifically marked had been fully discussed to address the capital fund- and approved by a majority An excellent work just published by the Aurora Seniors ing shortfall. of members and should Association (ASA), is ‘Treasured Recipes’ which is a book The philosophy, accord- stand, or otherwise council described precisely by its title. ing to the motion, would be was starting all over again. The work was directed by a committee consisting of Fran carried forward for future She was supported by Cohen, Susan MacDonald, and Virginia Ciufo and chaired by years for council considera- Councillors Evelyn Buck, Marie Leone, all of the ASA. tion. Bob McRoberts, Alison Recipes in a book of this nature have been tried and used When the committee Collins-Mrakas and Wendy on countless occasions and often are passed down through report came to council last Gaertner. families for generations, which points to a fine pedigree, and week it was debated all over Councillor Al Wilson a diversity of culture and lands of origin. again. argued that new information The book which costs $10 and is a fundraising project for Some councillors sud- was available and with the the ASA may be obtained at the following locations: Aurora denly realized that if they possibility of a six per cent Seniors Association, 5 Municipal Dr., R & R Revisited/The adopted the committee regional tax increase there Auroran, 95 Edward St., Sunrise Senior Living, 3 Golf Links report and recommendation was a need for more Dr., all located in Aurora. which had been approved debate. For those who appreciate a well-illustrated book, the work by the committee, they That concept was sup- of Thoreau MacDonald, the only son of J.E.H. MacDonald, a would be making a budget ported by council resulting Group of Seven artist is featured, and combines beautifully decision before the budget in a deferral on a 5-4 vote, with the text to form an entity. was finalized. after Councillor Gaertner A ‘Super Bid Euchre Tournament’ has been scheduled for Staff members confirmed went to the other side. Sunday, Feb. 24. Registration is at noon and play commences at 1 p.m. The entry fee is $5 and a grand prize of $100 awaits the winner. Members and non-members are welcome, partners are not necessary, and eight games of eight hands will be played. For further information call 905-727-3123, ext. 3611, or Lara Dekkema pulls another draught during official speak with Marilyn Munslow, Bill Wharton, Eldene Hall, or opening ceremonies at TK’s Restaurant and Pub, Virginia Ciufo, or visit the centre and enquire at the Reception which replaced Charlie FitzWhiskey’s at the corner • Aurora’s First Choice For Driver Training Desk. of Yonge Street and Edward in Aurora’s south end. This event is expected to be well attended so please be Tina Kular has taken over management of the 905-713-3733 early and ensure your tournament entry. The ASA invites all new members who joined in January premises and she and staff hosted dozens of • MTO Licenced & Approved Course Provider to a 'LET'S GET ACQUAINTED' meeting, which is planned people at the opening last week. ON-GOING MONTHLY CLASSES for Wednesday, Feb. 27, at 10 a.m. at the centre. Auroran photo by David Falconer www.ontarionewdrivers.ca Some seats are still available for Tchaikovsky’s Ballet & Orchestra, “Swan Lake”, Mar. 6, but the booking deadline is WELLINGTON PHARMACY Feb. 22, so if this ballet is irresistible, please make your reser- 300 Wellington St., East Independent sold Aurora - In Tim Horton’s Plaza vation soon. Another great show that cannot fail to attract your attention • FREE local prescription delivery is “Beauty and the Beast” at Stage West Mar. 19 and the to Rogers Cable • MAJOR DRUG PLANS ACCEPTED booking deadline is Mar. 1. • $2.00 OFF co-pay on all ODB Prescriptions Ballroom dancing lessons are available in a registered Newfoundland, with 64 per town program, available Tuesday evenings from 7.45 p.m.You From page 1 905-727-8711 Jim Irvine, who founded cent basic penetration of its must register for this course at the reception desk. OPEN Mon. - Fri. 9 - 7 Sat. 9 - 2 Aurora Cable more than 40 homes passed. The addition of a third bowling lane at the centre makes years ago was quick to Rogers pioneered high- MeDi CentRe Medical Clinic Walk-in & Family Practice bowling more accessible. respond. speed Internet access and next door to pharmacy Without a doubt, this easy-going pastime will get you mov- Accepting new patients DEBIT "We are proud of the suc- now 41 per cent of homes ing and start the process of getting your body in shape for cessful cable operations we passed by its cable networks spring. Over have built in and around are Internet customers while The cold and snow challenge us still, but like the crocus in Two Aurora and there isn't a more 64 per cent of its basic cable the garden, seniors should be ready for the first good weath- logical or higher-quality serv- customers subscribe to Decades er, and carpet bowling gently fills the bill. ice provider than Rogers who Rogers' high-speed Internet of Experience The chess club confirms the starting date of the Round could take ownership of service. Working With Robin Chess Tournament is Mar. 11, beginning at 6 p.m. them," he said. "Given the With 59 per cent digital AURORA™ ANGER which is the regular chess club time. common borders of our com- penetration, Rogers Cable Please sign up for the tournament on Tuesdays at the cen- Visit any of our panies' cable systems and offers a leading selection of convenient locations: tre, from 6 p.m. and stay and enjoy chess until 8.45 p.m. Kathryn Jennings Ph.D. Rogers' expansive array of High Definition TV Toronto, Pickering, 15423 Yonge St., Aurora You may sign up on the day of the tournament, but your Oshawa, information, communications programming, an array of entry cannot be guaranteed. Uxbridge, 905-713-2005 and entertainment offerings, Rogers On Demand services Barrie and Kitchener www.angeronline.com There is no charge for this tournament, except a $1 activ- this is a tremendous opportu- (including Video on Demand ity fee, which purchases a full day of activities for members. nity for our customers and for (VOD), Subscription VOD, Non-members may participate and are allowed a total of our companies alike." Personal Video Recorders three visits after which, they must join the ASA. When You Want It Done Right Rogers Cable and Timeshifting channels), Communications Inc. is a and an extensive line-up of York Region’s Choice for Home Renovations Library gets Film cheque wholly-owned subsidiary of sports and multicultural pro- Rogers Communications Inc., gramming. The Aurora Film Circuit pre- filmmaker Bryan Friedman. a diversified Canadian com- In addition it operates ALL RENOVATIONS sented the Aurora Public Library The Aurora Film Circuit is a munications and media com- more than 450 Rogers retail Inside AND Outside. with a cheque for $4,500 last volunteer initiative committed to pany. stores, including one in week in Aurora. enhancing the arts and cultural Rogers Cable's digital two- Aurora at the corner of Yonge • Decks • Landscaping The donation represents the scene of Aurora. way network passes approxi- Street and Dunning Avenue. • Basements • Kitchens • Bathrooms group's proceeds from 2007 and It is a devoted body of local mately 3.6 million homes in For a historic look at ACI, • Renovations & Repairs • Flooring fulfills its mandate to support out- film enthusiasts, hoping to pro- Ontario, New Brunswick and please see Page 19. • DESIGN CONSULTATION of-budget programming at the vide the community with an library while providing local film alternative experience in cinema Satisfying York Region residents enthusiasts with an alternative through the screening of inde- for over a decade! film experience. pendent, critically-acclaimed Find Out What your WE GUARANTEE: Film Circuit Chair Jane Taylor Canadian and International • Superior Services • Affordable Rates gave the cheque to Aurora films. Home is Worth On-Line • Flexible Schedules • Dependable Staff Public Library Board member As a registered, not-for profit Elizabeth Bishenden. partner of the Film Circuit, a divi- visit: Call today to book your The presentation was part of sion of the Toronto International FREE QUOTE! the Aurora Film Circuit's regular Film Festival Group, Aurora is season, accompanying the one of many communities www.QuickOnlineEvaluation.com Two Brothers General Contractors screening of The Bodybuilder across Canada taking part in ReMax Omega Realty (1988) Ltd. Renovations Done Right! and I, a documentary by Toronto this film-outreach program. 905-727-3964 18 - THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 THE AURORAN CLASSIFIEDS

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for 6 months & receive ✁ FREE ESTIMATE 905-713-5636 773-8033 OFFICE Year-Round Maintenance Company 6 Free Bags of Salt! Member of Aurora SPACE 905-392-1589 Chamber of Commerce You might not be able to do ¥ VACATION RENTAL ¥ FLOORING everything at once, but you can Cell: 416-818-5075 ¥ 905-841-8249 NAPLES FLORIDA. 2 bedroom condo on golf do everything in one place Not valid with other offers. Installation not included. Offers and participation may vary. O.A.C. course. all amenities, ¥ Fax Services near beaches. Call ¥ Digital Printing & Copying Kevin 905-841-5444. www.travelnaples ¥ Document Finishing florida.com ¥ Mailbox Rentals Hardwood ¥ Courier Services PINELLAS PARK ¥ Packaging Supplies & Services It was written by former Aurora resident FLORIDA, 3 bedroom home in quite subdivi- The UPS STORE¨ in Aurora Elizabeth Milner and features numerous sion. Close to Maderia 14845 Yonge St. Unit 6, Aurora Beach. Month of April stories and photos relating to $2000 US 905-841-1962 905-713-1632 Fax: 905-713-1633 stories and photos relating to or [email protected] Flooring Email: [email protected] that 20 years of Aurora growth. ¥ LIMO FOR HIRE Discontinued Items LUXURY CAR FOR HIRE VACATION Hire an Aurora based CHAUFFEUR DRIVEN RENTALS Professional Installer LINCOLN SEDAN for your wedding, airport transportation, ¥ NOTICE OF LIEN or a night out at your favourite restaurant. Only Call for GR8 prices on the sedan plus NOTICE OF LIEN our 10-passenger limousine! SALE The personal 416-938-7712 905-727-8600 $19.95 plusplus GSTGST property, household $19.95 416-992-3811 goods, and contents of a rental space will be ¥ SPIRITUAL INTUITIVE e-mail: [email protected] sold for cash or other- wise disposed of, to ¥ SCRAP satisfy rental liens for unpaid rent in accor- dance with Ontario Straight from SCRAP WANTED We are located R&R Statutes Chapter R.25 on Thursday, February the Heart 28, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. I’LL PICK UP YOUR SCRAP at the corner Revisited sharp at Northern Self ¥ INDIVIDUAL READINGS ¥ CHANNELING ¥ HEALINGS 95 Edward St. Storage, 122 Bales cars and trucks at no charge, and Drive East, Spiritual Intuitive - Cathy Bell in some cases, pay you for them. of Edward Street Newmarket, Ontario Call Today L3Y 4X1 (905) 853- All deals negotiable and Harrison Avenue 905-727-3300 4934 Units’ name is 416-737-1795 York Region Area Farhad Eskandarpour Call 905-751-3019 CLASSES ¥ SEMINARS ¥ WORKSHOPS ¥ COURSES Now on sale at Advertise all year for as little as $7 per week. (*This section only) Call 905-727-7128, Fax 905-727-2620 or go to www.auroran.com R&R Revisited ¥ SWIMMING LESSONS ¥ PHOTOGRAPHY ¥ SPANISH LESSONS ¥ INTERNATIONAL LATIN/BALLROOM DANCE CLASSES SWIMMING AURORA DIGITAL INSTRUCTION By CAMERA CLUB. If Yvonne Cattrall, - interested, email Masters World [email protected]. Record holder, 43 Indicate skill level, cam- years experience, era and main topics of For people on the go! certified Red Cross interest. DANCING Instructor.Year round, all levels, 3-4 maxi- We offer lessons for adults and kids. mum in class. 905- Learn the language and enjoy the culture 841-3450. Adult, Youth and children classes available Chela Villate DANCE CLASSES CLASSES Certified Adult teacher Bring a friend and get ¥ ART CLASSES 905•841•0441 Next series starts March 3rd., ¥ MUSIC LESSONS 10% off! [email protected] through April 28th MUSIC SONGWRIT- Flexible hours. DRAWING CLASS All ING/PIANO lessons. level small group www.spanishtogo.ca Level 1 - Cha Cha & Waltz English and Chinese. Over 15 years of expe- Call Yunhong at rience at reasonable ¥ GUITAR LESSONS Level 2 - Cha Cha & Tango 905-713-3650 rates. Call Robert at http://www.yhartstu- 647-284-0127 No experience or partner required. dio.com GUITAR LESSONS LEARN HOW TO DRAW & PAINT... for Your Children Taught by the host of the R&R “Start Dancing” series on ACI Cable TV Revisited just like the Masters 905-727-3300 95 Edward St. $10.00 ¥ All styles Located on the west side of Edward Street opposite Harrison Avenue ¥ Friendly young DANCE PARTY teacher Friday March 14 TThhee AAuurroorraann ¥ Plays in band && “Use as Directed” Aurora Legion Ballroom • 7 - Midnight RR&&RR RReevviissiitteedd • beginners to advanced ¥ Lessons for FREE Waltz dance lesson 7: 30 have a • ongoing classes beginners and • drawing & painting techniques • help students prepare portfolios for college and art school intermediates • no artistic experience necessary ¥ Reasonable rates Please call or email for more information or to register for upcoming events NNEEWW USER FRIENDLY 905-726-8883 Contact Keegan Site: www.SteveMillerDance.ca Judy studied academic painting and drawing in useasdirectedmusic WEBSITE Florence, Italy. She has appeared on City Line TV. Call Steve Miller at 416-439-6557 Please Visit [email protected] @hotmail.com Email: [email protected] auroran.com 905-726-8768 auroran.com THE AURORAN, Week of February 19, 2008 - 19 Aurora Cable: last of the independents up to Many newcomers to Aurora Pay TV channels, a community customers. operation, and the final inde- SAVE 40% may use the cable TV services programming channel and an ACI planned to launch a pendent cable company in the on your heating costs with the of ACI or more recently internet Ad channel. standard feature telephone country will be no more. Carrier Infinity 96 furnace and phone service, but know lit- With the growth of the cable service complete with portabili- Aurora Cable Internet has tle about the company. companies across Ontario, ty, 911 and 411 services as well been the centre of controversy It was in 1964 when Jim municipalities decided that the as an advanced digital tele- at Aurora Council meetings Irvine started construction of cable companies should pay phone service and be competi- recently taking up a consider- Aurora Cable TV with towers the same as Bell Canada for tively priced. able amount of staff and coun- located at the west end of Ridge stringing their lines along road With the uncertainty of the cil's time and energy, when the Road in what was then King right-of-ways which would have power supply, ACI proposed decision was made by the Township. increased the cost to Cable TV installing three wind turbines Committee of Adjustment and It was a family business and subscribers. and a container to store batter- the Ontario Municipal Board. the intent was to remain small. It was suggested cable com- ies as a backup power supply to The issue is primarily Irvine believed his small panies pay $1,000 per mile, maintain service for its many between the company, now company could service Aurora plus $100 per home connec- subscribers, which is still pend- being purchased by the mega- and Oak Ridges and submitted tion, if the connection required ing. chain Rogers, and the Ministry an application to the Canadian stringing a wire across a munic- Community programming of the Environment regarding a Radio and Telecommunications ipal roadway, with lower rates if on Cable 10 has come a long noise impact study as a condi- Commission (CRTC) and was the lines were buried. way since being mandated by tion of approval, and such study granted coverage for that area. At the time Bell Canada paid CRTC in the early days of cable is underway with no time limit He went door to door making five per cent of gross revenue to TV, which required cable com- imposed. his pitch for seven crystal-clear Ontario municipalities for the panies to provide a community channels for $4.75 a month. right to string wires along and access channel to carry local Service started in 1965 and across municipal roadways. programs different from those Was Your Resolution to Go Green by the end of the year had 350 As many cable companies provided on commercial TV. subscribers. At that time only the leased Bell poles they argued Coverage of council meet- basic service was provided that they paid Bell for the serv- ings, municipal elections, local in 2008? which included channels 2 to ice which was supported in the events, sports, special events 13. courts on the basis the pro- and a variety of local programs Up to that time TV reception posed charge by the municipal- were telecast featuring people Socially Responsible Investing does NOT in Aurora was spotty even with a ities was double taxation. and places to highlight the com- rooftop antenna. Toronto sta- By April, 2005, Aurora munity. require compromising on performance! tions were received quite clearly Cable, now known as Aurora It let people know what was and in the evenings Buffalo sta- Cable Internet, was a provider happening down the street and tions could be received on chan- of high speed internet services around the corner. For more information on our unique access nels 2 and 4. throughout Aurora and Oak None of the community pro- to socially responsible investment When Barrie went on the air Ridges, as well as a cable serv- gramming would be possible with channel 3, it blocked out the ice, selected FCI Broadband as without volunteers before and opportunities in Canada contact: two Buffalo stations even with a its strategic partner for the behind the cameras and many trap on the antenna, so the development of its new tele- co-op students from local high arrival of Cable TV was a bless- phone service. schools take advantage of the ing. FCI would serve as ACI's opportunity to gain experience, John Ridd – Kim Schultz In 1974, Aurora Cable major gateway to the telephone and others volunteer as they moved into an old house on network in the GTA. The new have an interest in the commu- Wealth Advisory Team Yonge Street, just north of service would complement nity. Cousins Drive. ACI's existing communication Now, Aurora Cable, if the The general office was locat- services and would be available application by Rogers is accept- ed on the ground floor with a to both residential and business ed, will become part of the giant small studio and one camera on (905) 727-5040 or 1(800)651-5952 the second floor.The house was [email protected] or [email protected] later acquired by Bell Canada and demolished to make way for a new Bell building. Flowers By January, 1980, Irvine by Terry could see that cable television could provide more than just a 14799 Yonge St. cable service. Aurora He joined the Canadian Telephone: 905-726-1549 Cable Association and partici- email: [email protected] www.flowersbyterry.com pated in a survey to find out the If you are already a client of BMO Nesbitt Burns, viewing habits and desires of If we wouldn’t take it home why would we sell it to you? please contact your Investment Advisor for more information. subscribers. Aurora was selected as the test area. Two senior students in the Computer Science program at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute came to Aurora to canvass homes. By this time Aurora Cable had 4,500 subscribers and was still offering the basic service. Four additional channels were available at that time for subscribers with a converter and it was planned to add another five channels when the desires of viewers became known. It was expected that Pay TV would be available by 1981. But it wasn't until February, 1983, that Pay TV became avail- able in Aurora with subscribers Contribute to an RRSP by February 29, 2008 and save tax on your next return. Contribute to an RESP by December 31, 2007 having a choice of three chan- nels at a cost of $15.95 per and be eligible for government grants. Both Registered Plans offer you the power of tax-deferred investment growth for month per channel. years to come. So SAVE THE TAX DAY, and start planning a wealthier life for you and your child. By September, 1989, with 9,500 subscribers, Aurora Cable had outgrown its Yonge Street Ask us how. location and moved to more spacious accommodation on Industrial Parkway South where 905-727-4300 they are currently located. With the larger building, there was new equipment and 53 Wellington St. Aurora programming. By this time Aurora Cable was transmitting on 31 channels including four 20 - THE AURORAN, February 19, 2008

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9:00 am - 4:30 pm Saturday Saturday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm weivyaB .evA t. fiTf niSt. y S .S.ywkP lairtsudnI .S.ywkP Mar .tS egnoY .tS Closed Sunday Sunday11:00 am - 3:00 pm YWH 404 .d

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