Town Shows a Pre-Audit Operating Budget Surplus the Town of Aurora Is Proposed to Ensure That Budget Mean Transferring the Tax Increase to Rich...Maybe

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Vol. 7 No. 20 AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 905-727-3300 Town shows a pre-audit operating budget surplus The Town of Aurora is proposed to ensure that budget mean transferring the tax increase to rich...maybe. accounts for all revenues and expen- another year. In a report to council last week, ditures of the municipality in future It was recommended that Treasurer John Gutteridge noted years a two per cent variance would $45,800 of the 2006 operating sur- that the town had an operating sur- be established as being an accept- plus be transferred to the plus of $423,900 for 2006 but that able surplus or deficit result. Accessibility Advisory Committee this was a pre-audit year end finan- In order to accomplish this it will capital project as the committee did cial statement in preparation for the be necessary to budget for supple- not spend what was budgeted and auditors who are expected to show mentary tax revenue and to increase there is a need to spend this in the up at the end of the month. the budget for interest income to bet- future. The report was submitted to ter reflect actual results. It was also recommended that council as there is a requirement in These two areas are major the remainder of the surplus be the Municipal Act that council must contributors to the surplus position. transferred to the Municipal Capital account for its prior year's surplus or He also pointed out that while it Reserve for future capital projects. Aurora Resthaven residents, Audrey Churchill, left, and deficit in the current year's esti- was tempting to use the surplus to It was pointed out that the report Kathleen Jones, make a point to Vaughan-King-Aurora MPP mates. reduce the 2007 levy there were was subject to audit and should the Greg Sorbara Friday when he attended the rest home to pick Although the treasurer pointed consequences for doing it. auditors suggest adjustments, up a petition that had been prepared by staff and residents. out that it was nice to report a sur- If the budget is properly done in amendments to the transfer to the The petition, which sought more funding for the home, was plus he was not happy with the 2007 there will not be a large surplus Municipal Capital Reserve would presented in the hopes Sorbara will bring it to the attention results. and if the surplus was used it would have to be made. of the provincial government in time for the upcoming provin- As the 2007 budget would be his cial budget. first budget after a year's experience Auroran photo by David Falconer with the town, changes would be Briefly 2nd annual frog race Lots of eggs The Town of Aurora, linked with the Aurora Girl Guides, will host set to go one of the largest Easter Egg hunts in York Region, for the sixth The second annual Aurora Rotary time. Frog Race is beginning to take shape. More than 14,000 eggs will be hidden and on Saturday, April 7, Slated to be held in Tannery Creek kids, aged two to 10, will have a chance to find them. Sunday afternoon, April 22, from the They’ll be hidden around the Aurora Family Leisure Complex, on bridge in Machell Park, the race will Industrial Parkway North, and a few eggs come with prizes. offer cash prizes to winners. Because of its popularity, there will be two egg hunts. You can rent a frog from any The first begins at 10 a.m. outside in the trail system with crafts Aurora Rotarian, at the Aurora and face painting from 9 a.m. in the Leisure Complex. The second Chamber of Commerce Home Show, hunt begins at 1 p.m. with crafts and face painting from noon. April 20-22 where the club will have a The event happens rain or shine. Cost is $4 per person. booth, or by calling 905-841-1352. For more information, visit www.e-aurora.ca or call 905-726- More than 1,000 plastic frogs are 4762. owned by the Rotary Club after they invested in the project last year. Frogs rent for $5 each and pro- Youth group show ceeds go towards various Rotary Theatre Aurora Senior Youth Group presents "And Never Been community and international projects. Kissed" March 23, 24, 25, 30, 31 and April 1. Heading up the race committee, Tickets are $15 plus GST. Rotarian Barry McDonough says this Interested? Call the box office at 905-727-3669. year’s event is being staged in the afternoon, rather than morning, in the hopes the weather will be warmer for New column spectators. The race, run in heats, will see the Bryan Moir, who sought a seat on Aurora Council and finished plastic frogs float from the bridge to a out of the money, has secured a position on the town’s Economic point in the river, several hundred feet Development Advisory Committee. to the north. Heat winners will then compete for From that point of view Brian will write a monthly column for The final prizes. Auroran. Purchasers are given a number This week, he looks at how local retailers can fight Wal-Mart and that corresponding number is Shelley Lundquist of the Women’s Centre of York Region in when it arrives in Aurora. painted on the plastic frog. Aurora, got into the spirit of things when a western night was His column is on Page 10. The event gets underway at held last week at the Aurora Legion. 3 p.m. Auroran photo by David Falconer LEATHER BAR STOOLS LEATHER OTTOMANS JACOB BARRONS WAREHOUSE SALE VALERIE $95 Fridays & Saturdays, $ .50 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 99 40 Engelhard Dr., at Industrial Pkwy S., Aurora 905-751-0533 16” X 16” X 30” www.barronshome.com 18” x 18” x 18” Brown, Cream & Red Brown, Black, Red & Cream 2 - AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 COMING EVENTS IN AURORA

Aurora Opera Company is seeking 30 children (ages seven to 12) to Town Hall or Leisure Complex or call 905-726-4762. Civic Awards take WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 participate in the main stage musical "Children of Eden" as animals and place June 6 at 7.30 p.m. Aurora Horticultural Society presents an "Aurora Urban Oasis-Aurora grandchildren in the children's chorus. No participation fee, and no expe- WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11 Arboretum" at the Royal Canadian Legion, 105 Industrial Parkway North, rience necessary. Rehearsals Sunday afternoons to April 20. Contact Aurora Chamber of Commerce Business After Five event at the Aqua beginning at 8 p.m. Aurora Opera Company at [email protected]. Grill, Yonge Street, beginning at 5.30 p.m. **** * * * * THURSDAY, APRIL 12 Aurora Community Historica Heritage Fair at St. Andrews College. Until April 15, winter parking restrictions are in effect and parking is Aurora Seniors visit the Shaw Festival at Niagara-on-the-Lake to see From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. open to students and schools and from 6 p.m. to 8 prohibited on all streets from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. daily. "Mac and Mabel" by Jerry Herman. Cost is $103 for members and $107 p.m. open to the public. **** for non-members. SUNDAY, APRIL 29 The 3rd Aurora Scouting Group has spaces available in Beavers, MONDAY, APRIL 16 Piano favourites in the Hillary House Ballroom with Recording Artist Cubs, Scouts and Venturers. For registration information or to volunteer From 10 to 11 a.m. at the Aurora Library, Eric Walters will do a writer's Carol Gibson at 2 p.m. Tickets, which include light refreshments, are $15 call 905-726-2393 or 905-841-0556. presentation for students in Grade 7. He has written a number of books for and are available in advance by calling 905-727-8991. * * * * children and young adults. **** Meet at Martha's Table, now in its second season. Every Thursday WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18 Join authors Alisa Smith and J.B. MacKinnon as they discuss their from 11.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m., you will find comfort food and a sense of Aurora Historical Society meets at Hillary House with a Show and Tell book "The 100-Mile Diet: A Year of Local Eating" at the Seniors Centre community at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church. A lunch of hot soup, and Pot Luck Dinner at 6 p.m. from 2 to 4 p.m. presented by the Environmental Advisory Committee. No sandwiches, and dessert will be provided. **** admission charge. Pre-register by calling Info Aurora at 905-727-8214. * * * * From 10 to 11 a.m. at the Aurora Library, Ange Zhang will do a writer's The committee needs 150 registrants to make the event happen. Aurora Seniors present a movie night every Tuesday from 6.30 to 8.30 presentation for students in Grade 6 and will discuss the writing of his MAY 9 to 13 p.m. Admission is $1 for members and $1.50 for guests. book about China. Marquee Productions presents the musical "The Secret Garden" at the * * * * APRIL 20-21 Newmarket Theatre at 7.30 p.m. with 2 p.m. matinees on May 12 and 13. Aurora Agricultural Society meets the first Monday of every month Aurora United Church Spring Rummage Sale from 1 to 8 p.m. Friday, Call 905-713-1040 for tickets. from 6.30 to 9 p.m. at the Aurora Community Centre. New members wel- April 20, and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 21. For further information, SUNDAY, MAY 13 come. For more information, call 905-713-6773, e-mail at info@auro- call 905-726-1648. Mother's Day Luncheon in the Hillary House Ballroom at noon and rafair.ca, or visit www.aurorafair.ca. APRIL 20 to 22 1.30 p.m. Menu includes soup, fancy sandwiches and sweets. Tickets are * * * * Aurora Home Show, Aurora Community Centre. $15 per person in advance by calling 905-727-8991. Aurora Rotary Club meets every Monday evening at 6.30 p.m. at Gabriel's on Yonge Street. New members welcome. For further information, call 905-841-1352. * * * * Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge #148 meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 8 p.m. at 15216 Yonge Street (south of Wellington). For more information, call 905-830-9205. * * * * Masons' Rising Sun Lodge meets the first Thursday of each month at The Rising Sun Temple, 57 Mosley Street, Aurora at 7.30 p.m. * * * * Robertson Masonic Lodge meets the third Saturday each month at 57 Mosley Street at 10.30 a.m. Coffee club at 9 a.m., lunch at noon. Call 905- 727-3032 or 905-727-1080. * * * * Gamblers Anonymous, every Tuesday night, Trinity Anglican Church, Marilyn Redvers, Sales Representative Victoria Street, 7.30 p.m. Residential Real Estate Services * * * * 14799 Yonge Street, Aurora L4G 1N1 Progressive Euchre every Thursday night. Aurora Legion, 7.30 p.m. Call 905-727-9932. 905-727-3154 * * * * www.realestateaurora.com Canadian Federation of University Women has monthly meetings at ROYAL LePAGE THE the Aurora Legion with a variety of speakers. Contact Beverley at 905- CHAIRMAN'S CLUB 727-2151. ASSOCIATE BROKER NETWORK * * * * Your Community Realty NATIONAL Bid Euchre at the Legion, 1 p.m. every third Sunday. * * * * York Regional Police Male Chorus is looking for members from Aurora and area who would like to volunteer by joining the choir. Men, 16 years of age and older, are invited to visit any Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. in committee room B, York Region Administrative Centre, 17250 Yonge Street, Newmarket. For more information, call volunteer chorus supervisor Lowell McClenny at 905-727-9676. * * * * Queen's York Rangers free camps for boys and girls, 12 to 18. Aurora Squadron runs Friday evenings at the Aurora Armoury. For further information, call 905-726-8600 any Tuesday evening between 7 and 9 p.m. $309,000 $349,000 * * * * STUNNING END UNIT TOWNHOUSE - BACKS TO TREES! The Aurora Seniors Evergreen Seniors Choir practice under the direc- QUIET CRESCENT IN NORTHWEST AURORA! tion of Tom Rainsford every Wednesday from 3.30 to 5.30 p.m. in the West Great privacy here! Well-run, quiet enclave of 18 townhouses! Open Terrific, light & bright home! Amazing space! Super bungalow with a McKenzie Hall of the Seniors Centre. concept floor plan. Living, Dining & renovated Kitchen all have master bedroom and ensuite addition! Finished basement, gas wonderful views over ravine! Modern neutral decor! Finished fireplace, 3 bathrooms, and oversized garage! All this plus a large, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 21 basement has gas fireplace & walkout to yard! Central Aurora! premium lot on a quiet street in a great neighbourhood! Aurora Historical Society meets at Hillary House at 8 p.m. with Curator Cathy Molloy as guest speaker. **** Community Living Newmarket/Aurora District is holding its 5th Annual Community Tribute Dinner honouring Vic Priestly of Aurora for his “Lifetime of Excellence in Community Service” at The Manor, Carrying Place Golf and Country Club, Weston Road, near Kettleby. Reception starts at 6.30 p.m. Tickets are $100 per person or $800 for a table. For information or tickets call: 905-898-3000, extension 258 or e-mail abo- [email protected]. MARCH 23 and various dates $589,000 $779,900 Theatre Aurora Senior Youth Group presents "And Never Been 3200 SQ.FT. ON RAVINE - WEST AURORA! STUNNING BUNGALOW ON GREENBELT - SOUTH AURORA! Kissed" March 23, 24, 25, 30, 31 and April 1. Tickets are $15. Call the box office at 905-727-3669. Wonderful family home has 3 fireplaces, large principal rooms, main Gorgeous home on lovely street of bungalows! Gleaming hard- SUNDAY, MARCH 25 floor office, & big bedrooms! Fabulous open concept finished basement wood floors throughout main level! Open concept kitchen/family with gas fireplace, wet bar, 3-pc. bath! Terrific deck to enjoy tranquil room with gas fireplace! Terrific fin. Basemt with rec. rm., 4th Trinity Anglican Church presents the return visit of The Tri-City Gospel views over ravine/conservation! Walk to schools! bedroom, kitchen & 2 fabulous bathrooms! Loaded with extras! Chorus. Hear this 85-voice male choir sing in four part harmony. No admission charge; however an offering will be taken up. 7 p.m. It’s a great time to sell your house! WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28 Aurora Horticultural Society presents a "Rhododendron Woods" at the Call Marilyn for a market evaluation! 905-727-3154 Royal Canadian Legion, 105 Industrial Parkway North, beginning at 8 p.m. **** Kids’ Gardening program, presented by the Aurora Garden & Horticultural Society, for youth, aged six to 13. One time registration fee presented by $10. Seven nights, continuing until November. Registration from 6.15 to 6.30 p.m. Call 905-727-6984 for further information. THURSDAY, MARCH 29 Aurora Public Library presents “Beyond Google”, from 6 to 7 p.m. Pre- register at the adult information desk or phone 905-727-9493, option 4. Mouse, keyboarding and basic web navigation experience required. **** Aurora Chamber of Commerce Business After Five event at Rowan Hardwood Floors, 569 Steven Court, Unit 1, Newmarket, beginning at 5.30 p.m. FRIDAY, MARCH 30 FABULOUS RENOVATION IN OLD AURORA! Deadline for the Aurora Library's Second Annual Poetry Contest for $849,000 Teenagers to celebrate National Poetry Month based on the theme Murmurs.There are two categories, one for those in Grades 7 to 9 and the other for Grades 10 to 12. For more information call 905-727-9493. Soaring ceilings, gleaming hardwood, gorgeous wood trim & lots of windows give this home a wonderful ambience! Completely reno’d using THURSDAY, APRIL 5 top-quality materials! Enjoy the benefits of a new home & the convenience of being right in the heart of town. Easter Dinner at the Legion, includes an Easter egg hunt, euchre, snooker and dancing. $10 per person. For further information, call 905-727-9932. TUESDAY, APRIL 10 Deadline for nominations for the Town of Aurora Civic Awards and Citizen of the Year. To learn more pick up a nomination package at the AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 - 3 Phony hospital cheques are used in lottery scam Aurora’s area hospital is for $1,500 to an individual in being used for a fraudulent lot- Toronto. tery scam, according to notes To date, incidents of the sent out by the hospital’s foun- scam have been reported in that anyone who receives dation. Ontario, New Brunswick and the letter is asked not to Southlake Regional Health Nova Scotia. attempt to cash the cheque, Centre in Newmarket, is advis- The cheque, purported to rather call the RCMP at 1-888- ing the public that a fraudulent be from the Southlake 495-8501 to report the scam lottery and cheque scam has Regional Health Centre includ- and then mail the fraudulent been found to be circulating as ed with the letter is fake. cheque to Administration, far east as the Maritimes, using The letter is from La Euro Southlake Regional Health counterfeit Southlake cheques. Lotto Commission Board, Centre, 596 Davis Drive, A letter claiming to be from apparently a fake operation. Newmarket, Ontario, L3Y 2P9. La Euro Lotto Commission The case has been turned advises the recipient of a win over to the RCMP for further up to $85,810. investigation. Senior games In order to receive the win- Meanwhile, the Southlake DAMIR VRANCIC nings, a recipient is asked to Foundation has sent out LAW OFFICE cash the accompanying coun- numerous notes advising peo- in York May 8 terfeit cheque from Southlake ple of the scam. BUSINESS LAW, and then mail their own cheque Southlake officials advise From May 8 until June 13, Games with financial assis- REAL ESTATE, Aurora seniors, who are older tance from the Ontario WILLS & ESTATES than 55 will have the opportu- Ministry of Tourism, Culture Heritage Fair seeks nity to participate in the York and Recreation. Region 55 + Games. In 1984, the Association 905-841-6411 Registration takes place at established the Ontario Providing valued and trusted legal advice since 1983 exhibits, volunteers the Aurora Seniors’ Centre on Senior Games Committee April 4 from 1 to 3 p.m. which coordinated district and The Aurora Community The opportunity to partici- Challenging games provincial competitions until Heritage Fair is a celebration of pate is extended to all Grade 4 include walking, floor shuffle- 1997 when the Ontario Dr. Richard Center, MD student work and Canadian to 9 students in public, Catholic board, cribbage, five-pin Senior Games Association is pleased to announce the opening of: history and heritage. and private schools. bowling, table tennis, bocce, became an incorporated The event will be held Some schools hold their bid euchre, tennis, swimming, Wednesday, April 25, from 10 own fair with selected exhibits body. THE ADOLESCENT HEALTH CENTRE golf, carpet bowling, slow a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 6 to 8 going on to the Community The OSGA program was p.m. at St. Andrew's College. Heritage Fair, but individual pitch, lawn bowling and designed to attract amateur 567 Wellington Street West It is sponsored by the students can submit projects horseshoes. athletes in an effort to pro- Aurora, ON L4G 6J7 Historica Foundation of by registering with the Aurora The Seniors’ Centre, in mote a healthy, active lifestyle 905-841-7137 Heritage Canada, the Aurora Community Fair Committee. partnership with the Aurora as well as provide competi- Optimist Club, St. Andrew's Volunteers, as well as Legion, will be hosting con- tion for adults over the age of A family practice uniquely for teens and young adults ages 12-21 College and the Newmarket- exhibits, are required and if you tract bridge, darts and snook- 55. By appointment onlyÐ Mon., Wed. & Thurs. 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Aurora Electoral district of the want to volunteer or if you’re a er events. Conservative Party of Canada. student wishing to submit a In 1982, the Older Adult Created in 1995, Historica's Canadian heritage project con- Centres Association of Heritage Fairs Program is a tact Susan Walmer at Ontario developed the con- showcase for students from [email protected]. cept of the Ontario Senior Grades 4 to 9 to tell something about Canada or its people that may have involved them or Looking tell about their Canadian hero or a Canadian mystery or leg- end. for a loop The program is designed to bring together students, teachers, businesses and communi- Schnitzels hole? ty partners in a celebration of Canada's unique culture and our heritage. In 1997, the York Region specialty Everyone is looking for a way to reduce Board of Education joined with the Town of Markham to hold a taxes. Investing in Flow-Through Heritage Fair at the Markham Museum and it provided an Shares* provides an effective way to opportunity to about 6,000 students to see history in the reduce taxation. These are shares of making. At that time the Board of Canadian resource companies that Education hosted and funded the Heritage Fair but later with- transfer their tax deductions to the drew their support and funding leaving it to a volunteer citizen 905-727-9561 investor. Typically the tax deduction is group to organize a 14889 Yonge Street, Aurora 100% of the investment, which could Community Heritage Fair in www.graystonesrestaurant.ca 2005. return 46% to you through tax savings.

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Poor Richard

Wal-Mart store should cause our merchants to fight back

A Wal-Mart store is coming; As council gave it a green light; The fears have already started, Downtown will become a blight. - Poor Richard's Scrapbook

For better or for worse, Aurora Council has approved a Wal-Mart store and a retail plaza at the eastern gateway to Aurora, which is Highway 404 and Wellington Street East. In addition to the huge Wal-Mart store there will be a retail complex with stores facing on a treed boulevard and a courtyard and if Aurora gets what the architect's drawings suggest, it will be a very attractive shopping area. Council had little option but to approve the proposal as the revised application met all the concerns that had been expressed at the first public planning meeting. Ask and you shall receive. Last week we ran this photo and listed the names of the people in the photo, The proposal still has to have the site plan approved. but we didn’t know one from the other. Some readers did and we received all kinds of notes and calls Concerns were expressed at the public planning meet- about who was in the photo and exactly where they were. But Aurora’s Mary Gibson outdid all of them. ings about Wal-Mart's poor reputation and labour relations, Now, here’s what we know. First of all, this is the Aurora High School student council posing for a photo etc., but it was pointed out at the meeting that these were in 1949. Aurora High (now Dr. G.W.Williams Secondary School) was located in today’s Wells Street Public not planning issues and could not be considered. School. In the photo are, front row, left to right, Valerie Hunter, Jim McDonald (head boy), Marguerite There's no doubt the threat of Wal-Mart and the other Calhoun (head girl) and Bill Linton. Middle row, left to right, are Mike Maughan, Ralph Rank, Howard retail stores to the downtown core could be serious as it has Stone, Robert Staley and Charles Marston. Bringing up the rear, left to right, are Betty Jennings, David not fully recovered from the shopping area in the Bayview/Wellington area. Harrison, Jack Andrews, Ken Richards, Betty Holman, Ann Boulding and Bill McGirr. Thanks, Mary. If the downtown core is to survive the merchants and the professionals in the area have to start planning to do something to help themselves, and even though council may be Letters to the Editor able to help, council can't do it for them. Back in August, 1977, Ira Thayer, President of the Downtown Aurora Business and Professional Association, urged Aurora merchants not to lie down and play dead in the face of burgeoning plaza development in Aurora. Shredded paper goes He told association members that the retail plaza competition must be met head on by making the downtown a more attractive shopping area to attract shoppers to the downtown core. to landfill, reader says He added that if they didn't get together and act the area would die and they wouldn't win by lying down and claiming To the editor, Aurora does not pick up shred- I am absolutely stunned. Something is not quite right it hadn't worked in the past. ded paper even if it is in clear We are encouraged by gov- with this scenario. I would wel- He encouraged the members to take action and they Last week I put out two bags. ernment and police to shred come an answer. decided to meet with council and request that the downtown bags of shredded paper in The Town said that the against identity theft, to recycle core be designated a Business Improvement Area (BIA). clear recycling bags along with paper was in plastic bags and to offset landfill and do our bit Longtime Aurora resident Under the proposal, merchants in the area would be my other recycling items as I therefore could not be recy- for the planet. Aurora assessed an extra business tax to be used for downtown have done for years. cled. improvements and enhancements and joint advertising. The truck took everything This is new. One of the major problems was off-street parking but but the bags of recycled paper. I suggested using paper with cooperation this could be partially alleviated. Several days later a friend bags such as those for leaves, Back in the late 1960s Aurora Council encouraged the of mine, who lives in another but my answer was no shred- “Aurora’s merchants on the west side of Yonge Street to merge the part of Aurora with a different ded paper, however it is pack- Community Newspaper” backs of their properties. recycle day, had the same aged, would be picked up by Published weekly by The Auroran Publications Inc. The Town currently maintains the area known as the thing happen to him. the Town of Aurora's recycling. Temperance Street parking lot. At 75 Mary Street, Unit #3 I called the Town and asked They asked that I please put it Aurora, L4G 1G3 Several efforts were made to encourage the merchants why these bags were left in with regular garbage and it on the east side of Yonge Street to do the same to create a behind. would go to landfill. Publisher Emeritus Rosemary Schumaker Victoria Street parking lot, but agreement of the owners was I was told that the Town of Paper is paper. never reached. Editorial Production Ron Wallace It should be attempted again. Cynthia Proctor Aurora has not had a successful history in establishing a Writer refers to crystal ball [email protected] [email protected] BIA in the downtown area due the inability of the property Dick Illingworth owners - some who are absentee landlords - to get for guidance, reader claims [email protected] Main Number 905-727-3300 together and agree to a plan of action. To the editor, by someone who obviously Photography The 1977 application for a BIA was not successful as refers to a crystal ball for David Falconer Classifieds more than 30 downtown merchants couldn't agree. Re: Intersection guidance. [email protected] 905-727-7128 Another attempt was made in November, 1981, and Discussion Continues, And please, don't get me [email protected] council spent $45,000 for a study of the area and the BIA Advertising Auroran Letters to the started about a need for traf- Facsimile Machine was launched in 1983, but by May, 1985, several merchants Bob Ince Editor, March 13 fic "solutions" based on neb- [email protected] 905-727-2620 claimed the BIA was a dead loss and it was disbanded. ulous "facts" such as In 1983, with an active BIA in place, council applied to By implementing his "numerous accidents", "con- Diane Buchanan Editorial Department the federal Heritage Canada Foundation for funding under "solutions", the letter writer siderable vehicular and [email protected] [email protected] Canada's Main Street Program and a coordinator was hired contends that, "pedestrian pedestrian traffic at the north Editorial policy to help breathe life into the downtown. safety would be greatly end at all times", "the high Council committed $65,000 for the program, which improved, traffic flow would speeds of traffic on Murray at Opinions expressed by columnists, contributors and letter writers are not necessarily those brought objections from plaza operators. be effectively managed and all times', etc., etc., etc. of The Auroran. Letters must include name and phone number, although number will not be With the disbandment of the BIA, the Main Street project published. Names may be withheld assuming a compelling reason to do so. Letters may be traffic speeds on Murray Hey, you were right Dick,- edited or refused. All contents protected by copyright. was also terminated as having a BIA was a prerequisite of would be reduced". I do feel better after letting off Advertising policy the program. I sincerely hope that the steam in a letter to the editor! Over the years council has played its part, now it's up to Town of Aurora doesn't use Publisher is not liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the the merchants to get together and plan for the future. value of an advertisement. Disputes must be brought to the attention of the publisher prior any of my tax money to pay Stewart Ivol to the following edition. Competition is about to get severe. for "solutions" brought forth Aurora AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 - 5 Machell’s Corners by Scott Johnston

Front Porch Perspective Profiling Grace Marsh By Stephen Somerville

This is the first in a series of short profiles on the members of long as I am healthy". to council, so the process is familiar. Aurora Council. The plan is to publish one of these every month Why did she seek a council seat? "My biggest surprise so far, has been the sheer number of or so. "My primary reason for running was driven by my recent job meetings.With the pressure of trying to get the budgets approved The first time I met Grace Marsh was last October. It was a change back to the private sector. I found I really missed the daily and the various orientation issues, we have been meeting an Saturday morning and the weather was absolutely horrible; it interaction with the level of government closest to the residents. I average of two to three times per week since mid December. I was cold, extremely windy and it was raining very hard. truly felt that my municipal background would bring value to coun- know this will settle down to a more predictable schedule over the I had just come from the Super Centre Shopping Centre and cil and complement the various other types of experience the next month or so, but it has been pretty hectic so far. Another sur- was driving southbound along Bayview when I saw this man and other councillors have. prise is the amount of reading involved, between agendas, back- woman struggling to bang in a wooden stake for a lawn sign near "There were really no surprises for me in the way council ground information and correspondence. It's quite a pile every the intersection. works having been employed in the municipal sector for more week." I thought to myself, "I just have to meet this couple - anyone than 15 years. I have sat through hundreds of committee or coun- who is outside in this weather has to be a few french fries short cil meetings at the Town of Aurora, the City of Vaughan and the Stephen can be contacted at of a Happy Meal!" Region of York. On top of that, I have authored many staff reports [email protected] I climbed out of my car, went over and introduced myself to Ms Marsh and her husband, Bren. They were quite the sight - both wearing large plastic garbage bags over their jackets, and Ms Marsh's hair was quite a mess. Inside Aurora I should not really be casting any aspersions regarding sar- Rough road ahead torial splendour here, as I recall I was wearing track pants and a By Scott Johnston "SpongeBob Square Pants" sweater that day. We had a nice chat - talking about the first of the public forums that were coming up and how many lawn signs she had EDITOR’S NOTE: Regular columnist Cathy Vrancic is "Yes, sir," Ashby stammered, a trickle of sweat making put up. on a sabbatical. Taking her place until she returns is its way down from his hairline. She stated she was 'a little nervous' about speaking in front Auroran cartoonist Scott Johnston. "They have a 'Father Christmas Under the Stars' event of people. I said that she would do fine. I added that as she would planned for November, and the hill's just too steep. They only have a short period to communicate her message at this It was a fine spring day in 1796. want that part levelled out. And the jog at the swampy first meeting, she should concentrate on informing people about In his office in the town of York, Lieutenant Governor north end of town…they want that straightened and filled her background and the main reason she was seeking a council John Graves Simcoe sat at his desk catching up on corre- in." seat. spondence. There was a knock at the door. "Well, if that's…" The next time I saw Ms Marsh was at that first Town forum. "Come." "Actually, there's more sir," Ashby continued, despite a After the event I said, "You clean up pretty good". She laughed One of Simcoe's men came in, removing his hat as he withering stare. and replied, "You do, too". smartly came to attention in front of the Lieutenant "There's the intersection itself. So many carts, horses, I then complimented her on her remarks to the audience. She Governor's desk. and pedestrians already go in every direction through sounded confident, sincere and knowledgeable in answering the "Yes, Ashby. What is it?" Yonge and Wellington that the people are demanding some questions. "Sir, I have the honour to report that Yonge Street has sort of signalling device to control the traffic." She currently works for DuCharme McMillen & Associates been completed." "Traffic signalling device! That's preposterous!" Canada, Ltd., as the Director of Administration. "Excellent," smiled Simcoe. "And there's the construction itself, sir. Now that spring The office is located in Mississauga and the business is pri- It had been three years since he had announced that the is here, there are pot holes everywhere. And parking, too, marily property tax and assessment consulting. military would build a supply route through the wilderness sir. Buggies and carts and horses and delivery vehicles are She spent 10 years with the Town of Aurora in the Finance northwards from York to connect with Holland Landing. lined up along both sides of the road. Department. Since that time, the forest had been filled with sweating "Between the congestion and parking and ruts, Most of her post secondary education has been done men armed with axes, saws, and shovels. It had not been and…well…", Ashby swallowed and avoided Simcoe's through night school and correspondence courses after leaving easy. The terrain was both hilly and swampy, and the hot gaze. "The local merchants say it's hurting their business. high school. buggy summers, and cold snowy winters had not helped They want the road widened and the pot holes filled in." She has earned the professional designations of Certified any. Simcoe stared in amazement. This was even worse than Municipal Tax Professional (CMTP) and Certified Municipal But now it was done, and they could concentrate on preparing for a potential American invasion. Manager (CMMI). She also has a certificate in Records other priorities. But he couldn't delay his other projects, so with a sigh, Management and Basic Accounting. Or so he thought. Simcoe said, "Here's what we'll do; send a crew to fill in The Marsh family moved to Aurora in 1979 and they still, after Simcoe noticed that Ashby was shifting nervously. some of the pot holes and see if they can do anything to the 28 years, live on Spruce Street. Bren and Grace have one "Is there anything else?" dips and swampy areas. And tell the locals we'll consider daughter, Robyn, who just turned 21. "Well, sir…umm..." widening the road, and adding some east-west routes to Prior to being elected, Ms Marsh's community involvement "Come on. Out with it." take the pressure off Wellington." was extensive, including; Royal Canadian Legion volunteer, "Well, sir, we've encountered some problems in a stretch "Brilliant, sir," smiled Ashby, as he hurried off to imple- Salvation Army kettle drive participant, Weekend to End Breast of Yonge Street in the area of Machell's Corners." ment his orders. "That should take care of all of the prob- Cancer participant, a parent volunteer with Girl Guides when "What do you mean 'problems'? The road's just been lems". Robyn was involved, Canada Day volunteer for the Town, and completed. And where is Machell's Corners, anyway?" But as Simcoe watched his assistant leave, he wasn't as she was also a founding staff member of the Town of Aurora Staff "That's kind of an unofficial name, sir. It's really just a easily convinced. This Machell's Corners sounded like the Charity Group known as TOAST (Town of Aurora Staff Together). small hamlet clustered near the intersection of Yonge and sort of place that no matter what repairs and improvements One activity she is passionate about is donating whole blood, the dirt track that you named after your friend, the Duke of were done to its roads, the residents would still complain. which she has done for many years. Wellington." And 211 years later, with potholes, traffic calming, con- Now she has moved into the aphaeresis program where she "What sort of problems?" gestion, and road repairs continuing to make headlines in donates platelets to matched patients who are undergoing can- "Well, apparently, there's a big dip in Yonge north of Aurora, one thing's for sure; Simcoe was right. cer treatment. Wellington. Locals are concerned they won't be able to get In total, she has made more than 90 donations of either their parade floats up there." Feel free to e-mail Scott at: whole blood or platelets and says she will continue to do so "as "Parade floats!" [email protected] 6 - AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 Letters to the Editor Hard to keep Ev down: Kroon To the editor, me if I’m wrong, did I not behind the excuse of "hav- For all we know, politi- read in this very paper, not ing a senior moment" and cians who get elected by I will admit, albeit more than six or so weeks forgot that earlier commit- the people who supported grudgingly, that I, in fact, ago, a promise from one of ment, it does seem to me them, will then do exactly am an old guy, and as such your elected representa- that when one makes the opposite of what they my memory plays tricks on tives, that she would never promises, it is somewhat By DICK ILLINGWORTH promised to do to get me from time to time, the write another letter to this incumbent on that person elected in the first place. BOUQUETS to the Aurora Tigers on defeating the mind not quite being what paper again? to at least make some con- Like lying. All the time. Or Newmarket Hurricanes to win the semi-final series it used to be and all that. I’m certain I did. As I am certed effort to fulfill them. misusing public funds. Or four games to two in a hard fought battle with most All too often, I have a certain you all did, too. But Especially if you are a putting their narrow agen- games going into overtime. The Tigers have also just definite problem with on Feb, 20, and the 27th, duly elected representative das before the needs of eliminated the Stouffville Spirit in five games. remembering things I’ve there are a couple of let- of the people. the people who they repre- seen or heard or read, to ters from the indomitable I mean if you can’t sent. BRICKBATS to Aurora Council if they permit the 85-year say nothing of the things Evelyn Buck. expect your politicians to Or perhaps even jump Aurora Horse Show to be moved out of Aurora’s I’ve said or done or written. Definitely difficult to do something as relatively to a party other than the Machell Park, the park members of the Agricultural But of this I am certain, keep this girl down. simple as keep their word, one under which whose Society helped create.There was no need for debate as Machell and by all means correct Unless she is hiding what’s next? banner they were elected. Park is their park and they should have prior rights for its use. Heaven knows where that will lead to. BOUQUETS to Ian Allison for his letter to The Auroran about Fortunately for us, most the various taxes imposed each year, especially on Councillor said she politicians aren’t like that. seniors, such as the education tax. However, in this case, I believe the simple solution BRICKBATS to the cash-strapped Toronto District School wouldn’t write letters is in the seemingly ever- Board for sending nine principals, a vice-principal more likely event that you and two supervisory officers to Holland to partici- To the editor, opers, basement apartments rules and respecting others. have no intention of keep- pate in a professional development seminar a week before the and even how dangerous it is To me, there are two ing your promises, it is March Break at a cost of $2,840 per person, while the schools Another poison pen letter for children to climb hydro types of true legends: 1) best that you don’t make scrimp. from Evelyn Buck. towers. Those outstanding in their them in the first place, Just three weeks ago she If her first lesson on ethics fields, and 2) Those out- regardless of what justifi- BOUQUETS to Aurora Treasurer John Gutteridge for his announced she would no was in Grade 5 I guess they standing in their own minds. cation you may have for informative reports on financial issues facing the longer write the paper since taught differently back then Councillor Buck qualifies for doing so. municipality for council members, plus his efforts to people did not appreciate or else perhaps she just for- Number 2. And in this circumstance bring the Finance department up to date by cleaning her. got what they taught her. I was truly disappointed I the pretext for making those up outstanding odds and ends that have been left hanging far Instead she would only How dare she lecture any- did not get elected but I was kind of clearly pliable too long. comment on her blog. one on ethics! even more disappointed that pledges seems to be the I actually went out and She is the one who con- she did. intention to expose the BRICKBATS to a justice system which permits a publication bought a bottle of wine to cel- stantly interrupts council With that in mind, I now inherent and congenital ban to be placed on the proceedings of more and ebrate. meetings with long rambling understand the dysfunctional hypocrisy amongst mem- more trials for no apparent reason. If a ban is to be But, oh no, I knew she statements that normally council. bers of Aurora Council. imposed, the reasons should be clearly spelled out. Why the couldn't stop herself and that have nothing to do with the At times I thought that Hmm... secrecy? poison pen from commenting topic being discussed. perhaps it could be me who If I was that kind of per- in her long rambling say noth- She shows no respect for was part of that title but I rest son, I may just suggest BOUQUETS to the Motor Vehicle Licensing Office on Mary ing letters. anyone on council unless easier now knowing that all that in this case some Street for being one of the few government agencies The last letter, in last they agree with her. of the time it wasn’t. meaning could be found in where a real live person answers the phone during week’s Auroran, suggested Ethics does not include I say that as the dysfunc- the old parable regarding office hours rather than a computer. They might, how- no one could tell her anything hitting anyone, interrupting tional council continues the pot, the kettle and the ever, consider a recorded message providing office hour infor- about ethics or for that matter others or calling those won- today. colour black. mation when the agency is closed. anything at all. derfull points of order that I feel sorry for those on Except, I’m not that She knows it all including she always does. council who have to sit and kind of person. BRICKBATS to the federal government for being hypocritical politics, poor people, devel- It does mean following the listen to her ramblings as I But maybe someone by spending taxpayers' money to promote non- sip my wine. ought to be. smoking while at the same time providing tax relief amounting to $500,000 to a select few tobacco processors who Nigel Kean Hugo T. Kroon sort, grade and pack leaf tobacco located in a riding held by a No intention Aurora Bethesda cabinet minister who could be in trouble in the next election.

BOUQUETS to Governor General Michaelle Jean, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for her to insult chief recent visit to Afghanistan, bringing cheer to the To the editor, We realized there would Canadian soldiers stationed there. be good purpose for the I always enjoy reading cargo but the mental pic- BRICKBATS to those in charge of the CN Tower for impos- "Letters to the Editor" but I ture of a human chain ing a blackout ban on the daredevil crew hired to confess I am floored by the passing along bottles of remove the ice from the 1,815 foot tower and not editorial note on my recent water made us chuckle. even alerting the fire department and other emergency services. humble contribution! There was no intention Why all the secrecy? I realize one’s sense of to insult the intelligence of humour may vary from the Fire Chief or his won- BOUQUETS to the York Region Police Services Board for another person’s but I hon- derful crews whose fine extending Police Chief Armand La Barge's contract for estly thought our worthy work we appreciate at least another two years as chief. It should have been editor of The Auroran tremendously. longer! would detect the tongue- in-cheek nature of my Douglas Graham BOUQUETS and an Aurora welcome to the operators of the observation. Aurora new Bistro 171 which opened recently on Yonge Street in the former Trio Restaurant. Why 171? It’s the last three numbers in its address, 15171 Yonge Street.

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Newly-elected Mayor with the ACI wind turbine. ion on the issue, the percep- name on all letterhead being In business and in politics, past term of council never Morris reverses her princi- Interestingly, one of the tion of conflict of interest issued from the Town (see it is often the practice to made 680 News for poor ples, deferring to the vote of key people driving council to should be more worrisome. former Councillor Nigel review new leadership after behaviour. council, and attends a closed ignore the higher authority 4. Council retreated to a Kean’s letter Auroran, March the first 100 days as a Now on at least two sepa- meeting out of town Ð an was Walter Mestranero, closed door meeting to dis- 13). barometer of what to expect rate occasions I have heard issue she fought loud and friend of Councillor Evelina cuss the appointment of the Now that Mayor Morris from an incoming leader. Aurora Council being dis- proud against while council- MacEachern. same Walter Mestranero as may herself be seeking re- I thought, since we are cussed on the news. lor because it was against How do we know he is a a member of the Committee election, we have four-colour around that mark in the new When campaigning, her strongly held principle of friend, you might ask Ð well of Adjustment. As S. Lee pictures emblazed across term of Aurora Council, it Mayor Phyllis Morris pointed transparency in government. they ran on a joint ticket questions in a letter the bottom of all town letter- might be an interesting exer- the finger at poor leadership A principle not so strongly when Councillor (Auroran, March 13), the head. cise. by Tim Jones for being the held now she has the long MacEachern ran for her first concern about cosiness Another change in princi- So let’s review the most root cause of the dysfunc- coveted mayor’s chair. term, as well, they were key between councillors and citi- ples? newsworthy activities as tion. Under her new leader- 3. Council refuses to members of SWAT (South zen members of an elected 7. Mayor Morris wants to reported by our trusty local ship things haven’t gotten accept the decisions of high- West Aurora Taxpayers). body is concerning. update the current Code of Is this a potential back Ethics to add more teeth. For door for council to influence three years she undermined an independent decision- the workings of a previous making body? mayor and council to effect Group seeks donations 5. Dear Richard gives a her own personal agenda. Bouquet to Aurora Council Now she wants to gag (Auroran, March 13), for others from speaking their finally bringing an attitude of mind. for spring rummage sale respect to a recent Council Council’s behaviour was meeting. Congratulations! fine until last term and this, To the editor, a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Lynett (in good working order); equipment (in good condi- However, in the very last with and without a Code of Hall, 16 Catherine Street, household goodies, electri- tion). paragraph of the article on Ethics. The Catholic Women’s Aurora. cal kitchen appliances (com- These items may be the meeting where the ACI Surely it’s not the Code of League of Our Lady of We will be happy to plete with cords and in good dropped off at the Lynett issue was finally put to rest it Ethics that needs to change, Grace parish, Aurora, is receive any donations of working order); furniture (in Hall Wednesday, April 25 states; “Mayor Morris and but the people’s behaviour. sponsoring its annual Our clothing (clean, usable and good condition); linens, and Thursday, April 26, from Councillor Evelina Being a strong leader is Lady of Grace Spring in good condition and no material and wool (please no 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. MacEachern were not at the not about making your team Rummage Sale Friday, April underclothing); books and items which are under gov- This event is open to all meeting.” Hmm, I wonder if do your bidding -- but about 27 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and videos (in good condition); ernment regulations, such of the community of Aurora there is a connection. raising them up to achieve Saturday, April 28, from 9 jewelry and children’s toys as car seats); and musical and surrounding areas and 6. Last term, while a their best. we look forward to making councillor, Mayor Morris Our best is achieved by our eighth annual rummage fought long and hard on two working together towards a sale successful and pleas- separate occasions to create common goal. Bird Box project ant for everyone. an imaginary street in the This kind of experienced The funds derived from Town Hall parking lot so that leadership is lacking at the this sale will be used by the the Town Hall would no council table today Ð not a CWL for parish endeavours. longer be listed on John Code of Ethics. progressing well Refreshments will be West Way Ð thus taking away I hope our new Mayor served throughout the sale an honour bestowed on realizes this soon and starts days. To the editor, structed kits to make 20 This will enable volun- long-serving local politician building a team, and starts boxes for chickadees, teers, both young and John West by a previous putting the Town priorities Belinda Higgs The Aurora house wrens and old, to glue and nail the Council. ahead of her own. Caroline Berryman Environmental nuthatches. kits with a view to The reasoning was to Co-presidents Committee’s project to Royal Woodworking installing the completed prevent a sitting councillor Bill Hogg OLG Parish CWL erect 75 bird boxes on and Home Depot agreed boxes in the Aurora from having an advantage in Aurora Earth Day is progressing to donate several sheets Wildlife Park and on other well. of three-quarter inch ply- publicly owned land on John and Margaret wood and other materials. Earth Day, Saturday, April Bahan of Foxley Green The Aurora Senior 22. kindly donated pine Citizens’ woodworking Don’t forget to bring a board and Tom Crozier group has agreed to cut hammer. has made 30 boxes. this up to make an addi- If you require further Jim Spring, who tional 30 bird box kits for information on building donated a large area of bluebirds and tree swal- boxes or helping to erect his farm to Ducks lows. them on Earth Day, phone Unlimited to create a It is intended that a me at Merlin’s Hollow, wildlife park in Aurora, workshop will be held 905-727-8979 or call the donated three-quarter March 25 in the West Project Coordinator, inch plywood and con- McKenzie Room of the Catherine Marshall at Aurora Seniors’ Centre, 5 905-713-2629. Municipal Drive, across Coincidence? from the Town Hall, from David Tomlinson 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Aurora To the editor,

Re: “Subdued debate brings peace to turbine Legacy Diamond issue”, Auroran, March 13. So, according to the Jewelers story “for the first time since the application by Aurora WHERE OLD CAN BE NEW AGAIN Cable Internet to install three wind turbines...the debate at council was quiet We can Customize and Redesign and subdued. There was no into New, Spectacular pieces delegation of citizens opposing the application or Engagement & Anniversary Rings, demands from members of Wedding Bands and More... council for more and more Also featuring quality staff reports...”

Soyuz Watches Is it merely a coincidence that “Mayor Morris and Councillor Evelina 14800 Yonge St. Aurora Shopping Centre MacEachern were not in attendance at the meeting”? 905-841-3065 I think not. George Williams SAVE 10% with this ad on any purchase over $100 Aurora 8 - AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 Letters to the Editor Politicians must have servant attitude: reader To the editor, results. for all to achieve good feel good about themselves. passed and the team heart is the one that is not The post modern era results. Encouraging people to approach, working with oth- understanding the real When people get good requires that one has the It is time Aurora council- get those results makes for ers as well as partnering needs of the people one results they feel good about ability to accept others as lors and other people serv- an infusion of influence and with other people and serves or even the simple themselves. They are clear well as allow for solid rela- ing the residents of Aurora a power to achieve. organizations, becomes ability to relate to them. on what they do. tionship building and the understand this. When people in your fam- reality for the years ahead In business one needs to Their relationships are ability to connect to others. Directional management ily, organization or town for good results. know the needs of the cus- sound and love those that The personal relationship and preaching and demand- council are encouraged to We see it already hap- tomers and provide the they have in their life and era has arrived in a major ing is no longer getting good create solutions or bring pening in the airline and service they require thus their work place, including way. results or growth. solutions there is a great other industry and con- both get good results. family and friends, church or Those who get elected to Young people as well as ability for people or a situa- sumer environment. Then they become loyal the council of Aurora. lead in politics, business and those who are older wish to tion to change. However where one still and willing to develop a To achieve good results other organizations must be real and involved and Things begin to multiply has to gain good results is in working relationship or even one must have the ability to have a servant attitude that accepted for what they bring and people feel the real infu- small business, political are- partnering to get those good serve. empowers others. to the table at any time sion of influence that will nas and in churches across results. In other words accept It is no longer about including our town staff and gain results for themselves the nation and across all Many people continue to that a serving heart and an power to achieve good politicians at all levels. as well as for others. denominations and ages. complain and be a judge attitude of service is a results but about one’s feel- Results large or small in The fighting for power The dwindling of church over actions of their peers or requirement for good ings, opportunity and hope any endeavour make people and the recognition era has attendance, for example, is people they work with or that it has become far too even socialize with including focused on organization and our political council mem- doing things rather than bers. Couple wonders if audit was done understanding the require- The real infusion of influ- To the editor, where it should have. a debt load of more than Housing Corporation guar- ment of a personal relation- ence and allowing people to According to a bankrupt- $179 million. anteed $130 million in ship with their people and be encouraged in any situa- On Easter weekend, cy hearing, there was a Not only did government loans which also became their God. tion with empowerment to 2004, CTV's W-5 aired a "failure to remit to the prop- continue to fund this failing part of the bankruptcy; at Within churches on aver- think and enjoy the fruits of program about a chain of er authorities more than operation, but early on, a that time, the report stated age pastors/priests are their thoughts, energies and 17 Ontario nursing, retire- $11 million in contributions judge ordered the Ministry the federal government had trained on preaching sys- effort makes for good results ment and residential homes for pension plan, vacation of Health to pay some of the no plans to investigate. tems and procedural focus with good feelings. that received nearly $400 pay and benefits plan." debts. All this is only part of the rather than the ability to Changes are inevitable million over a period of 10 And "there was a "litany" Jim McCarter, Ontario's story. build personal relationships but how we deal and com- years from the Ontario gov- of inappropriate transac- acting auditor general at the When demands are with real people for good municate with real people is ernment. tions including the use of time said, "I would think if a made of government to results. changing rapidly. Taken from that report is residents' funds for interim nursing home had to be continually increase levels Politicians and pastoral Focus on getting good the following: financing and the company garnished three times, I of nursing home funding, it individuals preach from a results with your people and Families of residents of was living from one MOH would think from an audi- seems the public ought to distance but few can relate they will feel good to be with the chain described the hor- payout to the next, robbing tor's perspective that would at least be given answers to the personal needs of the you. rible neglect of their loved Peter to pay Paul." raise an alarm bell that this and explanations from their people they serve or sit ones and the overall The story said the own- is a bit of an unusual situa- elected officials, and in par- beside. Martin Mol deplorable conditions in the ers claimed to be almost tion." ticular, from our Minister of The lack of a serving Aurora facilities. broke while living in million Even two years before Finance and MPP for Apparently, documents dollar homes and driving a the collapse, "officials at the Vaughan-King-Aurora, 15085 Yonge Street Aurora Ont L4G1M3 showed more than 2,000 "fleet of expensive cars, Ministry of Health had Greg Sorbara, to account WALK IN’s WELCOME violations, cockroach infes- including a Hummer and raised concerns about for this gross misappropria- tations, "intense noxious two Mercedes Benzs" and fraud and requested an tion of taxpayer funds. odour" from a resident's enjoying the use of a boat audit, but an investigation This extremely disturb- gangerous leg; no soap, no at an estimated worth of never occurred." ing lack of accountability laundry, kitchen and other $300,000. In 2004, Victor Malarek for public funds, at the very supplies. The story went on to say of W-5 caught up with the least, demands a forensic Suppliers of food, heat, that $30 million a year of then new Health Minister financial investigation be gas and electricity and taxpayer money continued John Smitherman and was done. garbage collection hadn't to be paid on top of the fees told, "hard questions need If an audit was done, the Of Northwood Mortgage Ltd been paid. collected from the residents to be asked and at the end results should be made Money meant for staff and their families. of the day, people need to public. Mortgage Financing benefits through wage In November, 2002, the be held accountable." If it was not made public, Yes YOU can get a Mortgage even if the Bank Turned YOU Down deductions wasn't going chain went bankrupt under Canada Mortgage and why not? Debt Consolidation Equity Take out If such an audit was not Equity Line of Credit Purchase or Refinance done, three years later, why Let US show YOU how to make your How council should begin not? Mortgage TAX DEDUCTABLE To the editor, the Bible. Edward Moore. Ellen & Brad Watson 905-726-4335 2. A five-minute reading Having thus been suffi- Aurora Possibly, Aurora Council of selected passages from ciently chastened and meetings should begin with Plato’s Republic. inspired, it might then be the following: 3. A five-minute reading possible for members of 1. A five-minute reading of selected passages from council to attend to the legit- of selected passages from Principia Ethica by George imate business and concerns of the ordinary citizen- ry, whose hard won dollars pay the salaries of councillors and the operating costs Councillor may of the Town of Aurora. If certain councillors are compelled to preach about be self-centred themselves they should seek a ministry for this pur- To the editor, Perhaps we expect too pose at any one of the much. town’s churches. I read with great interest the letter from Ms LeeAnn Keller George Hervey Buck regarding her ethics. Aurora Aurora Her personality came through loud and clear. In her short note, using the word "I" exactly 19 times indicates she may be a bit self-centered. I believe a lack of com- munication to be one of the ongoing problems in Water Softening, Purification, our council. Filtration & Sterilization Units The residents of Aurora expect their council to interact with one another Tel: (905) 727-6401 8 Industrial Pkwy. S. without ego or bias. www.nyhp.on.ca Aurora, Ontario Model railroading dead? Don’t tell Earle By RON WALLACE it. repair. when Timothy Eaton (yes, trains and all, from the model railroad club that Periodically, Earle and A layout to display all of that Timothy Eaton) had a premises, and that’s how might expand to its own Word in model building friend Chris Bahen, will his equipment would likely sprawling bungalow on Old he wound up in Aurora. building. circles is the art of model meet in the basement, tin- fill the basement of his Yonge Street, with a model Rumours, strictly Interested parties railroading is slowly ebbing ker on the layout, and run a large home, although he train in his yard that used rumours. should e-mail away. few trains around the many does have a plan to run to carry children. At any rate, Earle wants [email protected] or Don’t tell Earle Lepofski. feet of track the two of some trains from room to In the basement, a lay- to know if there are others call 905-727-3300 during The Aurora resident has them have managed to room on lines suspended out that ran from room to like him in the community, business hours. a basement full of model squeeze on the small from the ceiling. room and covered the who might like to start a Toot, toot. railroad equipment, from board. A model railroad club in entire lower level, was an rolling stock to scratch-built Not finished, the layout - Aurora would be a great awesome sight. buildings to a nine-foot by HO guage (which is half idea, Earle thinks, but he’s There was a rumour State Farm® five-foot HO train layout. the size of O guage) - will not sure the interest is floating around about that Providing Insurance and Financial Services Trouble with most of boast an operating round- there anymore. time, that Timothy wound Canadian Head Ofﬁces: Aurora, Ontario Earle’s collection is it’s still table complete with two Once there was a huge up in the house after moth- in boxes. entrance tracks and a hobby shop in the Aurora er - Lady Eaton - returned He has Lionel - that’s O roundhouse to store loco- Shopping Centre, that from an overseas trip and Allan Cruickshank, Agent guage in size for those who motives and diesels. downsized, then moved to found the top floor of Eaton 300 Wellington St E Aurora, ON L4G 1J5 know about this hobby - Earle estimates he has another location, and final- Hall (now Seneca College) Bus: 905-727-2749 equipment that’s probably more than 100 operating ly closed for good. had been turned into a [email protected] worth a small fortune, but locomotives and several And model railroading model train paradise. P045151CN 4/04 he has nowhere to display more which need some was probably in its hey-dey She ordered Timothy, CARE WHEN I NEED IT Understanding is the key to providing a level of care that’s hard to match.

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Earle Lepofski surveys his unfinished HO model train layout that he is building in the basement of his Aurora home. Auroran photo by Ron Wallace

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* explore the sounds of letters 'IVEYOUR* discover theYEAROLD joy of reading AHEADSTARTINSCHOOL* learn letters through print and play * discover the language of numbers AT,ITTLE3CHOLARS* be introduced to a classroom setting 905-727-8046 ext. 21 15054 Yonge St., Aurora (Yonge and Reuben) (905) 713-3488 10 - AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 How to fight Aurorans - unique citizens Aurora has had its share went racing in 1966. event, a practice course was Regional Police and about of unique citizens. The Chev lasted him a set up on the runway. 150 collectors attended. Wal-Mart In June, 1980, Clayton month and during his first The flight from the base More than 20,000 badges Videan was giving a demon- year of racing he wrote off camp to the North Pole was were on display from depart- stration of caning a chair at three cars, but was deter- 475 miles and took three ments all over the United By BRYAN MOIR the Ladies Section of the mined to continue. hours. As they landed, the States and Canada in what Years ago, in the depths of the Cold War, there was a Aurora Horse Show. He entered the diamond group sang "Sitting on Top of was called the first movie called, "The Russians Are Coming". The Aurora resident of 34 class races in Barrie and the World". International Trade Show for Fortunately, that movie was a comedy and the ominous years caned his first chair 33 Sutton Speedway. In 1967 They carried off their arti- Collectors of Police title bore little relationship to the antics portrayed in the years ago for his wife's he won so many trophies at ficial turf for greens and while Insignias. movie. grandmother. Sutton Speedway that he the weather was sunny, it Hachenberg was once a The coming of Wal-Mart to Aurora is an entirely different He explained that cane is received a silver tray as a was a little cold for golf at police officer and following matter. actually grass that grows in special award. minus 20 Celsius for the his retirement devoted his The breadth of services offered by Wal-Mart's the Far East, Hong Kong and He moved to Aurora in game. time to designing shoulder Supercentre duplicate many of the businesses already in Vietnam. He purchased a 1966 and was racing twice a Back at Resolute a golf flashes and badges for police Aurora. The Wal-Mart Supercentre offers a clear and pres- few thousand feet of three week. Saturday he raced at ceremony took place to departments. ent danger to these businesses. millimeter-wide cane materi- Barrie Speedway and award the trophies with He started to collect So what can local businesses do? al from a Toronto dealer. Sunday at Sutton. During the Pogue winning the Most badges when European In order to compete, business owners need to under- Videan has another pas- week he worked as a motor Northern Hole-In-One. forces started exchange pro- stand how Wal-Mart wins at the retail game. Wal-Mart's sion - cake decorating - mechanic. Aurora's Heinz grams in the 1950s and he greatest strengths are low prices and guaranteed stock which is not surprising as his By 1972 he was racing Hachenberg loved badges worked in France, England, availability. first job in Aurora was with four times a week in his new and insignias of police and Spain and Italy. Generally Wal-Mart offers only the top two to three Scanlon Bakery. 1972 Chevelle 427. fire departments from as By 1985 he owned 2,500 national brands in a category in addition to their own "house After he retired he went to He was now in the top many departments as he police flashes and badges brand". Suppliers of national brands are constantly pres- Chicago and took a course class known as the super could find. from around the world and sured to provide the lowest price possible. in cake decorating. Many modifieds and he estimated In September, 1985, he his collection was one of the Wal-Mart has only one goal in mind and that is to offer young Aurora couples had his car developed more than arranged for a badge swap highlights of the Trade Show. products at the lowest price possible…and they are fanatical their wedding cake decorat- 500 horsepower. and sale in the banquet hall He hoped to add to his about this single goal. ed by Videan. Retired Aurora business- of the Four Shields collection of Aurora Police Wal-Mart's other major competitive strength is product Bernard LeMaitre was man Clayton Pogue was an Restaurant in the Aurora Force badges. At the time, he availability. Very seldom will key products in a category be the perfect person to win a avid golfer and when he Shopping Centre. had obtained eight of the 14 out-of-stock. This gives Wal-Mart shoppers' confidence to jukebox. The Kennedy Street heard about a trip to the He was assisted by known Aurora police forces return each week knowing the product will always be avail- resident had been an avid North Pole to play golf, he Wayne Cole of the York in various parts of the world. able, thereby saving time and money. record collector for years was quick to participate. If your business model is built on offering the lowest price and had more than 1,200 in The party left Toronto to on a standard product offering closely resembling Wal- his private collection. fly to Resolute, an Inuit com- Mart's, you have already lost the battle unless you change. In a national contest in munity of 184 people located So how do you win the war? January, 1980, LeMaitre's north of Baffin Island. It Flowers Sun Tzu, the legendary Chinese general, offered some name was one of three in served as a weather station by Terry good advice on this matter. He said "Attack him where he is Ontario selected to win and a staging area for those unprepared, appear where you are not expected." spectacular jukebox prizes. heading farther north. The jukebox was not your The base camp for the 14799 Yonge St. In other words, use your smaller business size, quick- Aurora ness and flexibility to your advantage. average corner restaurant polar golf expedition was at Telephone: 905-726-1549 First, offer products and services that Wal-Mart is not model. The Seeburg micro- Lake Hazen located in the email: [email protected] capable of providing. computerized stereo phono- centre of Ellesmere Island. www.flowersbyterry.com There are many examples in Aurora of local retailers who graph held 279 records and Because the golfers needed compete on the basis of superior service rather than on was valued at around a warm up before the big If we wouldn’t take it home why would we sell it to you? price. $3,000. Local hardware, paint and decorating stores adopted this He had collected many strategy when Home Depot came to Town and they have not original recordings over the only survived, they have thrived. years. He was a member of Second, extend the services that enhance your current the International Association product offerings. of Jazz Record Collectors Find niche markets and use specialization as your com- and the U.S. Jazzology petitive shield. Ask your customers on a daily basis what Group. The only problem he other types of products and services they are looking for. had with his prize was where Your existing customers are your best source of information. to put it. Third, make your store a "destination". Give your cus- He was such an expert in tomers reasons to visit, even if they do not always buy on the field that CBC Radio each trip. Train your staff to be friendly, service-oriented and often consulted him and bor- full of product knowledge. Offer what Wal-Mart can't. A rowed from his collection of cheery knowledgeable retail associate, and the smell of cof- recordings to do Great fee in the air go a long way. And don't forget, advertise, Moments in Jazz. advertise, advertise…and then advertise some more. By 1982, Dennis James What role can the Town play to help businesses? of Aurora was one of In reality, the Town can do very little. However, there are Canada's premier moto- a number of steps that can be taken. cross riders. First, the Town, in co-operation with the Chamber of The former Aurora High Commerce, could ask Wal-Mart to implement a program School student was looking similar to the one initiated in Landover Hills, Maryland. forward to the 1982 As part of its "Jobs and Opportunities Zones Program", Canadian championships Wal-Mart works with Chambers of Commerce, business riding a new Honda bike with groups, and female-owned businesses to provide support to Honda Canada as his new local businesses by offering advertising inside the Wal-Mart sponsor. store and by paying for advertising in local newspapers. James competed out of The Town and the Chamber are owed a favour by Wal- Nielsen's Motor Sports of Mart as a result of their support.You should take advantage Aurora in partnership with of it! long-time fellow competitor Second, the Town should consider implementing a poli- and friend, Erik Nielsen. The cy that would loosen the bylaws for businesses in identified new team hoped to capture areas, such as the downtown core, and in retailing seg- first place in the Canadian ments that would directly be affected by Wal-Mart. series. This would allow them to quickly implement changes in While Honda supplied the their businesses that would be otherwise caught up in red bike and some of the tape. Red tape has consistently been identified as an imped- expenses, Nielsen's provid- iment to business in Aurora. This would buy time and help ed the technical assistance local businesses prepare. for any repairs or modifica- Third, the Town should invite interested parties to hold tions required. seminars and information sessions at the Town Hall. Nielsen was also an This would allow businesses to gain a different perspec- accomplished rider, a former tive on how they might be able to better compete with Wal- dirt-track Canadian champi- Mart and chart a different strategic direction. on and he planned to com- Retailing is a passion with Wal-Mart. They are constant- pete in the 1982 series riding ly looking for ways to improve their game. on his Yamaha. To prosper, so should every business in Aurora! Fred Bullen of Aurora also had a passion for Bryan Moir can be reached speed. He started with a at [email protected] 1955 Chevrolet he bought for $50. He put bars on it and AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 - 11 Police budget needs another $16 million to provide service The York Region Police members. Services Board has As a result the Service approved a 2007 pro- Board presented a posed tax levy require- revised budget with a tax ment of $180.6 million, a levy impact of $179.8 mil- $16 million increase or lion including the addi- 9.8 per cent over last tional officers and civilian year's budget to provide staff plus a $7.4 million police services to Aurora contribution to the and the rest of the Region Regional Capital Reserve. of York. The revised budget The numbers were pre- numbers are an increase sented to the Finance and of $15.3 million over 2006 Administration Committee actual figures or a 9.3 per recently, which resulted in cent hike. direction to review the The revised proposed proposed budget and budget will be considered identify reductions, with- by York Regional Council out any impact to the pro- members prior to adop- posed staffing plan. tion of the regional The proposed budget budget. includes the addition of That meeting is sched- 67 officers and 35 civilian uled for later this month.

Call me if you would like a second opinion on your RRSP & Investment strategy.

Stephen Forsey CIM FCSI Investment Representative JONES, GABLE & COMPANY LIMITED (Member CIPF) www.jonesgable.com 905-726-9343

Three owners of the newly-opened Bistro 171 were on hand for their open house last week.They are, left to right, Brian Vallipuram, Omar Kelly and Richard Allardyce. Bistro 171 opened last week in the building that once housed the Trio Restaurant on Yonge Street, south of Mosley, and has been doing a booming business since. Auroran photo by David Falconer CRIMINAL DEFENCE

BAIL YOUNG OFFENDERS

This committee makes WILLS, REAL ESTATES ESTATE Susan E.Tucker FAMILY Lawyer & Notary Public town facilities accessible LAW 905 727-7775 The Ontarians with public. advised that due to budget Disabilities Act was pro- Aurora Council estab- limitations, they had to claimed in September, lished its committee in focus attention only to the 2002. November, 2002. Leisure Complex and Town 4HINKING!BOUT(IRING It required all municipali- One of its first tasks was Hall. ties with a population of to recommend that an audit The membership of the more than 10,000, as well of all municipal buildings be current Accessibility !3UMMER3TUDENT as school boards, transit carried out to identify barri- Advisory Committee #ANADA 3UMMER *OBS -AY "E !BLE 4O (ELP agencies and hospitals, to ers and a consulting firm includes Councillor Bob make their facilities fully was engaged in March, McRoberts, Ann Boden, accessible. 2005. Jane Boorman, Catherine #ANADA3UMMER*OBSISANEWPROGRAMTHATPROVIDES Municipalities, and In May, 2005, the com- Couchman and John WAGESUBSIDIESTOHELP#ANADIANEMPLOYERSCREATE Aurora was included, were mittee received the report Lenchak. required to establish an of Associated Planning The committee meets at SUMMERJOBSFORSTUDENTS Accessibility Advisory Consultants of the 7 p.m. on the first Committee of five members Accessibility Audit for the Wednesday of each month with one member of coun- Aurora Public Library, Town except for July and August, .ONPROlTORGANIZATIONS PUBLICSECTOREMPLOYERSANDSMALL cil, three members with dis- Hall, Leisure Complex and in the Leksand Room of the abilities and a citizen mem- the Community Centre. Town Hall or the Priestly PRIVATESECTOREMPLOYERSWITHORFEWEREMPLOYEESCAN ber or a stakeholder. In September, 2005, Room at the Seniors’ APPLYBYCALLING OR The purpose of the committee members were Centre. Accessibility Advisory BYVISITINGTHE.EWMARKET3ERVICE Committee is to encourage Experiencing water problems? and facilitate accessibility #ANADA#ENTREINTHE4ANNERY-ALL on behalf of all challenged Experience the persons by promoting public awareness. EcoWater difference 4HEAPPLICATIONDEADLINEIS&RIDAY The committee assists -ARCH council by advising, review- NEW 3500 Series Water Refiners ing and making comments “SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY REBATE!” and recommendations of interest to people with dis- MORE THAN JUST A WATER SOFTENER... abilities. It also deals with com- The EcoWater refiner will clean, soften, filter, munity issues relevant to remove chlorine, taste and odor - all in one system disabled persons within the The industries only residential water framework of the goals and appliance that carries TWO GOLD SEALS. "ELINDA objectives of the Accessibility Plan. EcoWater is the largest manufacturer of residential The Ontarians with water softeners in the world, Disabilities Act requires all offering industry leading warranties. 342/.!#(-0 obligated organizations to prepare annual WWWBELINDACA Accessibility Plans, which 150 Hollidge Blvd., Unit C7... across from Sobeys Bayview 9ONGE3TREET !URORA /NTARIO,'- must be available to the Aurora 905-713-6326 1-877-939-4600 /FlCE(OURS-ONDAYn4HURSDAY AMTOPMPM PM&RIDAYAMTOPM SPORTS Page 12 AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 Tigers win the North, meet Hamilton Friday When you go to the They ousted the Spirit performance. A: Quinn Waller (Martin, Goulet) First period Third period Aurora Community four games to one, losing Scoring for the Tigers 7:44 (no scoring) Centre Friday night to 4-3 in overtime in were Brett Connolly, S: Donivan Munro (Johnston, A: Mark Thorburn (Piccone, Trivino) 13:33 Second period watch the Aurora Tigers Stouffville last Tuesday Quinn Waller and Daniel Connolly) 4:13 A: Joey Piccone (unassisted) jump into their next hock- night. Michalsky. Alain Goulet Second period A: Quinn Waller (Matt McGill) 7:12 ey playoff round, you’ll While it took five hard and Joey Martin each 2:05 A: Andrew Favot (Henderson) get a look at the fought games on Aurora’s added two assists while A: Daniel Michalsky (Dahlinger, A: Doug Henderson (Eastman, Martin) 1:27 10:10 part, the club did manage Mike Lalande in net for Ward) 16:42 Hamilton Red Wings. A: Brett Connolly (Thorburn, A: Paul Zanette (Favot) 18:23 Hamilton swept its to come out of Friday’s the Tigers stopped 41 of Goulet) 6:07 series 4-0 over the win with the Ontario 45 shots. Georgetown Raiders Provincial Junior A’s A night earlier in Third period PEIRCE McNEELY ASSOCIATES Saturday night, but three North Division title nicely Aurora, the Tigers were secured. up by four goals before S: Randy Johnston (Smith, of the games went into Sullivan) 5:29 BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS overtime, including the Scoring two points for Stouffville finally found first of the series that got Aurora with a goal and the mark more than half- Overtime REAL ESTATE assist apiece each were way through the second all the way to double CIVIL & FAMILY LITIGATION Joey Piccone, Andrew period. S: James McIntosh (unassisted) overtime. 14:23 Favot and Doug Five Tigers shared the BUSINESS & COMMERCIAL LAW Aurora, meanwhile, in Wills & Estates spite of one small bump Henderson. scoring in the 5-1 victory, Game Five along the way, disposed Adding singles were including Mike Dahlinger, 905-727-8900 of the Stouffville Spirit Paul Zanette, Quinn Joey Martin, Andrew Aurora 6 Offices in Toronto and York Region (Aurora) Stouffville 0 Friday night, by virtue of Waller and Mark Eastman, Mark Thorburn a 6-0 victory. Thorburn. and Colin Williams. Tyler Gordon stood tall in the Tigers cage stop- Game 3 ping 25 shots to record Skating Aurora 5 the shutout. Stouffville 1 Friday’s opener results against the Hamilton Red First period Wings begins at 7.30 p.m. A: Mike Dahlinger (Williams, Martin) 18:33 The following skaters Last week, in represented the Aurora A: Joey Martin (unassisted) Stouffville, Aurora came 19:04 Skating Club at March back from a 2-1 deficit at Mania held recently at the the end of 20 minutes, Second period Georgina Ice Palace in and actually led 3-2 Keswick: A: Andrew Eastman (Martin, going into the final frame. Dahlinger) 1:15 However, Stouffville A: Mark Thorburn (Connolly, FREESKATE DANCE managed to knot the Piccone) 5:25 score then fired the win- S: Randy Johnston (Kapolnas) 13:18 Introductory Men A-Gold ner six minutes into the Biathalon Dance: Matthew first overtime from to Third period Rainsford 7th, Meaghan secure their only victory Jones/Garth Miller 2nd. in the series. A: Colin Williams (Watts, McGill) 15:48 Introductory Ladies A: "You can't expect to Sara Reynolds (Group 3) beat a good team when GAME 4 3rd. you only play 35 minutes Pre-Preliminary Ladies of hockey and get outshot Stouffville 4 A: Courtney McGrath by 10 shots," said Coach Aurora 3 (Group 3) 6th. Jerome Dupont. First period Pre-Preliminary Men B: He expressed disap- Mathew Warner 2nd. pointment with his team's S: Mark Sullivan (Oliver, Pre-Preliminary Ladies McIntosh) 5:29 B: MacKenzie Maunder (Group 7) 7th; Samantha Duncan (Group 10) 3rd; Tejia Rom-Colthoff (Group 10) 4th. Preliminary Ladies B: Courtney Tidona (Group 4) 6th; Hailey McGrath (Group 5) 1st; Alana Fabbricino (Group 6) 1st. Preliminary Ladies C: Hailey Riggs (Group 1) 3rd; Tayler Sim (Group 4) 4th.

March Break’s only a week! WESTVIEW Golf Club Summer Aurora

vacation lasts 9 weeks. We offer Junior memberships that make golf an alternative to tradional day camps. Call now as we have a limited number of spots available. We are located just east of Leslie on Vandorf Rd. The “Westview way” through summer vacation. Call for tee times 905-727-0446 www.westviewgolf.ca AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 - 13 Bridge results Tuesday, March 6: Olly Dave Neil. Smolak, James Longley; Thursday, March 8: Marg MacFarlane, Paul Novice Game - Hazel MacFarlane; George McPhee, Terri McGuigan; Jordan, Irma Field; Tie Ð Dennis Mcfadden, Anne Richards, John Peter Schneiders and Kris Stewart. and Phil Dontigny. Wednesday, March 7: Friday, March 9: N-S - N-S - Linda Lord, Hans Marg MacFarlane, Paul Jacobs; Shirley Hulbig, MacFarlane; Shirley Paul Graves; Lena Hulbig, Paul Graves; Tie - Jackson, Don Jackson; Izhar Haque, Paul Caleb Beth Stokell, Alex and Rani Mahmood, Jane Carpenter. E-W - Mary Demers. E-W - Ross Oglanby, Sandra Davey; Jenkinson, Wally Browne; Jane Demers, Ross Don Jackson, Lena Jenkinson; Gordon Saul, Jackson; Gerald Heath, Peter Brugger; Betty Saley, Deanne Dennison.

6 Months NO interest Winners NO Payments An Aurora girls’ soccer team captured the Can-Am 2007 tournament recently with a 1-0 victory over the North Meck South Carolina Reds in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The girls won the U12 Gold Division Championship. Included in the victory were, bottom row, left to right, Taylor Huculak, Michelle Minchella Wellington Medical (call up player), Brett Hagarty, Samantha Minchella, and Rachael Wright. In the top row, left to right, are Coach Eric Wooder, Chelsea Wright (call up player), Maddy Appleby, Alexandria Kastanis, Lyndsay Walk-in Clinic Batten, Molly Lowndes, Manager Judy Batten, Emily Gibillini, Taylor Wooder, Erin Simmons and Coach Frank Minchella. Absent when the photo was taken are Sara Schouten and Samantha Snedden. Dr. John Fitzsimons • No Appointment Required • Travel, Wart and Acne Clinic Dr. Anthony Nguyen • Online appointment Now accepting Aurora Peewee team defeats new patients Book at www.medhelp.ca 126 Wellington St. W. ¥ 905-841-1633 New extended hours Whitby club at tournament (Corner of Haida Dr.) Enter via PHARMASAVE PHARMACY The Aurora Peewee man Andrew Seguin and mined battle in the neutral Hockey House League forward Brendan zone, Coulton Speight sent its regular season Mackenzie, who also was able to get the puck champions, the Tigers, to picked up an important deep into Whitby territory the annual Orillia tourna- assist on the play. with just over two minutes ment recently. Whitby featured sever- to play. Graham Joiner Placed in the "AAAA" al strong skating forwards flew in from his off-wing to division, the local boys but the Aurora defence, steal the puck from the played the top house particularly Kurtis Lindner surprised Whitby defence league teams in the and Josh Hubble, broke and deposit it between province and came away up several dangerous the legs of the Whitby with a hard fought 4-2 vic- scoring rushes. goaltender for a 3-2 lead. tory over the undefeated Finally, a fortunate The Tigers weathered Whitby Ultras. bounce off a referee's a relentless attack from Despite exceptional skate enabled the Ultras the Whitby champions in goaltending from Tommy to pounce on the puck in the final two minutes, with Kerr, the Tigers fell the Aurora zone and knot Zak Toulouse-Sauve forc- behind 1-0 after one peri- the game at two with just ing a Whitby penalty and od on a screened point over eight minutes Curci scoring an empty- shot after Kerr made sev- remaining. net goal to earn an excit- eral dazzling saves to After winning a deter- ing 4-2 victory. keep the Ultras at bay. In the second frame, the Tigers found their legs, and after J.J. White fed a speeding Graham Joiner on the attack to Ed Schlotter, Mortgage Consultant split the Whitby defence 905.727.0112 Serving Aurora for a scoring chance, Matt Noseworthy banged in www.mortgageintelligence.ca/edschlotter the rebound to tie things “ For All Your Mortgage Needs” up. • Residential and Commercial Made Easy The Tigers dominated • Debt consolidation and Business for Self play, forcing the Whitby A GMAC Company © 2007, Mortgage Intelligence Inc., all rights reserved. goalie to make several TM Trademark of Mortgage Intelligence Inc. ® Registered trademark of Mortgage Intelligence Inc. acrobatic saves, including break-away saves on FAIRLAWN PAINTING hard-working Brendan RESIDENTIAL -INTERIOR &EXTERIOR -FAUX FINISHES Kirasack and sniper Ryan Dalcin. The Tigers eventually SPRING SPECIAL In Timbits Hockey, learning to laugh and make friends took the lead with just PAINTED FRONT DOOR & GARAGE DOOR goes hand in hand with developing the skills of the over three minutes (SINGLE OR TWO CAR GARAGE) remaining in the second -INCLUDES PAINT game. It’s the perfect way to ensure young boys and period on a heads-up (1 COLOR TRIM –1 COLOR FRONT & GARAGE DOORS) chip pass from Jenner $350.00 girls get off to a good start in this great game. Dekkema to a streaking Tim Hortons is proud to support the kids who play Andrew Curci who went ASK US ABOUT top shelf for the prettiest STAINING DECKS AND FENCES Timbits Hockey in Aurora. goal of the tournament. CALL TODAY The scoring play started with great work in the 416-543-1624 Tiger zone by defence- SERVING THE AURORA COMMUNITY 14 - AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 Monday Night AAuurroorraa MMiinnoorr HHoocckkeeyy AAssssoocciiaattiioonn Website: www.aci.on.ca/amha Hockey Standings Results as of Sunday, March 11

to March 5 House League Pontiac Buick GMC Atom House League 2 - James Powell 1G, Terrence Lepore 1A, Lucas Brutto 1A, TEAM W L T GF GA PT Tyke Callum Forrest 1G. Tom & Jerry’s 17 2 3 83 46 37 402 Orr & Forster Insurance Brokers 6 - Graham Law Insurance Brokers 15 5 2 95 49 32 101 Tim Hortons Red Wings 7 - Jacob Cowl 2A, Jack Hightland Chev-Cad 11 8 3 98 74 25 Killby 2G 1A, Ben Black 1A, Joey Stel 1A, Morgan Dion 2G, Liam Desouza 2A, Dimitri Mikrogiannakis 4G, Rec Cycle N' Sports 11 10 1 75 77 23 Walker 1G 3A, Russell Johnson 3G 1A. 405 Laurion Priestly Demolition 10 11 1 86 85 21 Charles Peters 1G 3A, Graydon Belgue 3A, Colin Read Law Office Atom House League 4 - Scotty Barker 1A, Baldwin’s 6 14 2 75 87 14 1A, Jacob Cann 1A. 103 Tim Hortons Senators Tyke Masterclean Contracting 6 15 1 71 98 13 Tyler Futterer 4G, Brendan Elliott 1A. House League 5. FPL Aggregates 5 16 1 58 114 11 403 Delph & Jenkins Surveyors 3 - Johannes 105 Tim Hortons Leafs Tyke House League 6 - Kyle Results March 5 Ekstrom 1A, Brayden Beswick 2G, Austin Coulter 1A. Rice 3G 1A, Andrew Negri 2A, David Robertson 1A, Ty 404 All Pro Source For Sports Atom House League Highlands Chev 10 Tom & Jerry’s 7 Boisseau 1G, Andrew Sutherland 1G 2A, Evan Coulter FPL Aggregates 2 Masterclean 3 0. 1A, Colin McGoldrick 1G 2A, Brendon Farnum 1A, Rec Sports 4 Law Insurance 8 David McGee 1A. 102 Tim Hortons Bruins 1. 408 Greenpoint Laser Products Atom House Baldwin’s 3 Priestly Demolition 3 League 9. 407 Dr. Steiner’s Drillers 1 - Ian Chappell Player standings 106 Tim Hortons Penguins Tyke House League 9 - 1A Brian Langdon 1G. Reid Carpenter 1G, Jack Camplin 3G, Quest Rodin 1G Including games March 5 1A, Aidan Burbank 1A, Ryan Thornhill 2A, Andrew Peewee NAME TEAM G A Pts. Sergejewich 2G 2A, Mark Carpenter 2G. 104 Tim Hortons Flyers 3. John Archibauld Highlands 26 19 45 604 Fresh Water Industries Peewee House League 3 Steve McDonald Law Insurance 15 20 35 - Kelley Hudson 2G 1A, Matthew Hart 1G 2A. 601 Mark Sedore Priestly 25 8 33 109 Tim Hortons Wild Tyke House League 12 - Owen Aurora Home Hardware Building Centre 2. Steve Kavanah Baldwin’s 14 18 32 Bourrie 1A, Joel Woodcock 4G 3A, Stewart Gable 4G, Craig McConnell Law Insurance 21 10 31 Ed Kilroy Rec Sports 15 14 29 Lucas Dane 1G 4A, Jackson Clements 4A, Cameron 603 Restored Sports 4. 605 Recreation Leisure John Anderson Rec Sports 17 12 29 Dyer 3G 4A. 107 Tim Hortons Lightning 0. Services Peewee House League 3. Bruce Chappell Highlands 9 19 28 Kevin Brown Rec Sports 8 16 24 John Yaremko Law Insurance 13 11 24 108 Tim Hortons Sharks 5 - Chris Pettit 3A, Matthew Minor Bantam Brad McMillan Tom & Jerry's 9 14 23 Carney 2G, Jayson Perkins 1A, Kyle Wulle 1A, Jordan Tom Hussey Masterclean 9 14 23 Scott Crabb Highland's 9 14 23 Torres 1G 2A, Alexander Simardone 2G, Sam 702 ACI 4 - Daniel Fusco 1G, Eamon Reilly 1G, Michael Darryl Thompson Tom & Jerry's 18 5 23 Speranini 1A. 110 Tim Hortons Thrashers Tyke Reilly 1G 2A, Egan Fennel 1G 1A, Rosario Arcuri 1A. Jason Muise Priestly 11 11 22 House League 3 - Ariz Bhimani 1G 1A, Tyler Frise 2A, Ken Rumble Highlands 8 13 21 709 ACI Minor Bantam House League 1. Frank Balkovec Law Insurance 5 16 21 Gordon Scott 1G, Ethan Brooks 1A, Brennan Young Steve Robertson Highlands 9 11 20 1G, Andrew Warner 1A, Jacob LeBlanc 1A. Mark Lemmon Law Insurance 6 13 19 Minor Midget Chris Neal Highlands 12 7 19 Novice Pat Davies Priestly 11 7 18 901 Emilio’s Pizza 7 - Jamie Russell 1G, Will Ginther Charlie Steenhorst Rec Sports 4 14 18 2A, Geoff Knaack 3A, A.J. Ciccarelli 2G 1A, Chris Dave McQueston FPL 10 8 18 205 Mastermind Toys Novice House League 6 - Kevin O'Keefe Baldwin’s 10 8 18 O'Hara 1A, Jordan Brown 2G, Derek Isidoro 1G 4A, Kyle Matthew Barnett 1G 1A, Connor Tripp 3G 3A, Tyler Vince Greco Tom & Jerry's 8 10 18 Ryan 1A. 906 Omars Shoes Minor Midget House Darren Yaremko Law Insurance 5 13 18 Williams 1G 1A, Anthony Loduca 1A, Matthew Colucci Pat O'Mahony FPL 8 10 18 1G 1A, Lucas Ackerman 2A, Connor Reilly 3A. 206 League 2. Mike Slimkowich Masterclean 5 13 18 Chouinard Bros. Home Improvements 0. Gerald Briand Baldwin’s 8 9 17 901 Emilio’s Pizza 2 - Geoff Knaack 1G, Jordan Brown Ed Jackson Baldwin’s 5 12 17 Doug Adair Rec Sports 7 10 17 203 McAlpine Ford Novice House League 12 - Aidan 1A, Derek Isidoro 1G 1A, Mike Hay 1A. 905 Skaters Joel Reeves Tom & Jerry's 5 12 17 Woolsey 1A, Lucas Bulmer 1A, Tristan Kuchar 2G 4A, First Minor Midget House League 0. Bob Ince FPL 6 11 17 Hugh Alcorn Masterclean 2 14 16 Alistar Johnston 3G 4A, Spencer White 1G 1A, Daniel Colin Leech Priestly 4 12 16 Cariou 1A, James Kellett 2A, Keegan Matthew 4G 2A, 905 Skaters First Minor Midget House League 4. 902 Dave Holden Tom & Jerry's 8 8 16 Adam Wilson 1G, Jordon Reeves 1G 2A. 201 Diamond 2 - Evan Campbell 1A, Scott Quagliarini 2G. Jerome Flanigan Priestly 5 11 16 Groundskeeping Services 1 - Jordi Severini 1A, Paul Gibson Law Insurance 5 11 16 Dave Caverley FPL 6 10 16 Adam Caicco 1A, Collin Dyer 1G. 902 3 - Steven Foss 1A, Jay Lamont 1G, Cameron Dean Iwai Tom & Jerry's 5 11 16 Smith 1A, Taylor Buxton 1G 1A, John Gardella 1G. 903 Mike Nisbet Priestly 9 6 15 202 North York Heating & Plumbing 6 - Tyler Mckay Alain Boudreau Masterclean 8 7 15 Minor Midget House League 3. Jerry Mackrell Tom & Jerry's 6 9 15 1A, Harrison Jarvis 4G, Petros Anagnostakos 1A, Ron Van Noort Masterclean 9 5 14 James Eydt 1A, Mitchell Haak 1G 1A, Charles Bennett Rep Games John Leeder FPL 9 5 14 1A, Andrew Daniell 1A, Ben Kissack 1G, Alex Sesto Brad Wilson Highlands 5 9 14 Brian Horton Baldwin’s 2 12 14 2A, Jordon Elliott 1A, Tarek Koudmani 1A. 204 Hitz Aurora Tigers Minor Atom AE 3 - Erick Bortolotti 1G, Jody Matthews Highlands 7 7 14 Novice House League 1 - Riley Walsh 1G, Geremy Jimmy Abels 1A, Jack Ellison 1A, Sandy Hudson 1A, Andrew Dalton Rec Sports 5 8 13 Miller 1A. RonThieson Tom & Jerry's 2 11 13 Adam Newell 1G, Eddie Duffy 1G 1A, Torre Litke 1A. Bill Collins Masterclean 4 9 13 TNT Minor Atom AE 2. Scott Thomas Tom & Jerry's 1 12 13 Minor Atom Scott Sheppard Rec Sports 1 11 12 Aurora Tigers Minor Atom AE 3 - Chris Klinowski 1A, Phil Podstatsky Priestly 6 6 12 301 Optimist Club of Aurora Inc. 6 - Cameron Mike Caicco Priestly 2 9 11 Noah Spicer 1A, Jeffrey Stobo 1G, Jack Ellison 1A, Kory Screech 1G, Dennis Semenovych 1A, Alexander Mike O'Connor Priestly 6 5 11 Wansbrough 1A, John Partland 1G, Sandy Hudson 1G, Mike Kensit Masterclean 6 5 11 MacKinnon 1A, Matthew Hall 4A, Joey Hodgson 1G, Andrew Klinowski 1A. TNT Minor Atom AE 2. Peter Briand Baldwin’s 6 5 11 Johnny Sherwood 4G 1A. 303 Tilemaster Minor Atom Les Nip Highland's 2 8 10 House League 4. Aurora Tigers Peewee AE 5. 302 Rec Cycle N' Sports 4 .304 HS Financial TNT PW AE Peewee AE 2. Services Inc. Minor Atom House League 1. Aurora Tigers Minor Midget AE 3. www.youngdrivers.com 305 Aurora Canadian Tire 7 - Michael Walsh 3G 2A, TNT Minor Midget AE Minor Midget AE 1. Brendan Ruuskanen 1A, Terrel Cook 1A, Andy Butler 2A, Evan Nichols 2G, Jonathan Mohabeer 2G, Aurora Tigers Minor Midget AE 4. APRIL 14 Jonathan Jin 1A. 306 Danny's Boys Minor Atom TNT Minor Midget AE Minor Midget AE 3. House League 4. Aurora Tigers Minor Midget AE 3 - Ryan Finlay 1A, 2 WEEKS Atom Brandon Giniotis 1A, Chris Burns 1G 1A, Brett Dutchyshen 2G, Darrell Evans 1A. TNT Minor Midget 905-726-4132 401 Shoppers Drug Mart Aurora 2. 406 Ab Cox AE 2. AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 - 15 Citizens lead battles in town’s growth One of the highlights of part of the property. project. 1984 in Aurora was the Later in the year with the An unprecedented total strong commitment by citi- hot summer months, the of more than 1,000 zens to their community. proposed Holland River responses to a question- They showed their spunk Sports Complex, now the naire prepared by and concern on a number of Family Leisure Complex, hit Councillor Martin Paivio controversial issues facing the headlines as Aurora indicated the people wanted the municipality, as a politi- residents voiced their opin- a swimming pool and they cal system is only as strong ion. wanted it quickly. as its constituents. With a Wintario grant Once again, public opin- By voicing their con- worth $652,000 already ion of the residents of cerns, resident groups approved for the construc- Aurora swayed the original made their voices heard and tion of an ice pad in the first plans of the politicians, by caused politicians to listen. phase of the complex, showing their commitment One of the major issues Aurora residents demanded to their community and their was the future of Pine Ridge a swimming pool in the first standard of living. After all, it at the south end of town. phase of the $5.4 million was their town. The issue really began late in 1982 when then Community and Social Services Minister Frank SAVING TAX IS THE Drea announced the clo- sure of the facility for the BEST INVESTMENT developmentally handi- Pine Ridge is former school, institution capped. YOU CAN MAKE! The announcement did pressure and challenged residential area and united scrapped but CARE lived on not raise any real concerns Aurora Council as to what to establish Conserve as a public voice for plan- as many agreed with the the facility could be used for. Aurora's Residential ning of development in the government policy of dein- Council pointed out to all Environment or CARE. community. Later condo- stitutionalization of Pine the rental space the The apartment plan was minium units were built on Ridge patients. province was using in the They were to be placed region and suggested the in community facilities, building be used as a mini- which unfortunately were Queen's Park. not prepared to accommo- After investigation as to date them. the structure of the former The big uproar came in De La Salle College, built 1983 when Minister of around 1915, the building Government Services Keith was converted into govern- JOHN ROYCE of Marshall Capital Corp. and host OF ACI’S “ON THE MONEY” Norton announced Pine ment offices and later the has a message: Ridge would be converted OPP detachment was into a juvenile detention moved from Downsview to a “If you’re in the situation of having Old Age Security centre. new building on the site. Clawbacks, High Taxable Interest Income or Owing While there was a need The smoke had barely Additional Tax over and above you’re regular for a juvenile detention facil- cleared from the Pine Ridge installments, there are Investments and Investment ity in the region no one issue before a proposal was Strategies that can Maximize Your Income while wanted it in their backyard submitted for a high-rise reducing the tax you pay.” and Aurorans didn't want a apartment development at Yonge Street and Golf Links jail with its high fences and For a FREE CONSULTATION call John Drive. searchlights at the southern at (905) 726-8925 or Residents claimed the entrance to their town. email [email protected] The Ontario government apartments would ruin the Marshall Capital Corp. is an associate of FundEX Investments Inc. backed down under such environment of the existing

3PEAKINGUPFOROURHEALTHCARE

h-R 3PEAKER THEGOV ERNMENT HAS FAILED TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE OF WAIT TIMES IN ITS lRST DAYS IN OFlCE !LL WE HAVE HEARD ARE VAGUE PROMISES AND A BUDGETWITHNOMONEY FOR THEMx)F THIS IS STILL ONE OF ITS TOP lVE PRIORITIES WHENWILLTHE GOVERNMENTACT v (OUSEOF#OMMONS -AY

"ELINDA 342/.!#( -0 .EWMARKET !URORA ! 3TRONG 6OICE FOR /UR #OMMUNITY 9ONGE3T !URORA/.,'- WWWBELINDACA 16 - AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 FAMILY LAW LAWYER SeniorSenior Scape Scape Soon the trail Patrick M. Gaffney Now practicing all aspects of Family Law including custody, access, support, property division, divorce and child protection matters. Practitioner of Collaborative Family Law - a client controlled, lawyer assisted, out-of-court process focused on achieving will be active mutually acceptable solutions for separating families.

By BRIAN WARBURTON ¥ 1/2 hour free consultation ¥ accepting Legal Aid As a member of the senior community, I am looking before the members and the BoD. #205 - 16610 Bayview Avenue, Newmarket forward very soon to a walk along the Holland Valley The York Region ‘55 plus’ games will take place PH: 905-953-0023 [email protected] Trail System from one end to the other and so are from May 8 until June 13, and you may register at the other members of the Aurora Seniors Association centre Wednesday, April 4, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. (ASA). Many of the games can be played daily at the cen- Pay as you go! The trail system includes the Aurora Community tre, including snooker, contract bridge, darts, carpet Arboretum which begins at the rear of the new sen- bowling, bid euchre, table tennis and more. iors’ centre. So if you plan to participate, getting in a little prac- Members of the ASA are very active in the Aurora tice will help your chances greatly, and now is the Community Arboretum, which plans to plant about time to do it. 200 trees in the park this year, or as many as funds The computer in the reading room has been Your overhead-free will permit. hooked up to the internet and the password is ‘ACS’, option for administration If you would like a tree of your choice planted, with so now you can use it to e-mail and surf the web. a plaque to commemorate a loved one or an event, Computer maintenance will be the subject at the 905-841-9364 and sales support! call the Arboretum at 905-727-6984 and they will be computer club general meeting Tuesday, March 27. Email: [email protected] • www.virtual-option.com delighted to hear from you. This event runs from 10 a.m. until about 11 a.m. With the rebirth of spring almost upon us, I have a and if you have any computer-related questions, think yearning to feel the sun, warm on my face and to see about them, and bring them to the meeting. the trees showing their finest green leaves of a new Everybody is invited including novices. York season and to delight in flowering trees in full bloom. Everybody starts somewhere and listening to other Region’sChoice for The meadows in the park and the ponds and rivers members’ problems often illustrates things you Senior Homecare! are a delight when all is alive with vegetation and with should know and the exercise is often extremely birds, fish, insects and animals often unseen but informative. At Graceful Living Inc., we help families just like yours to provide care and abundant, nonetheless. Incidentally, if you plan to sign up for computer independence for their elderly loved ones right in their own homes. As you may be aware, a special General classes, Tuesday after the meeting would be a good Membership meeting will be held Wednesday, March time to do it. Personal Care: 28 at 1 p.m. On Friday, March 23, the ASA will feature a • Exercise The purpose is to ratify constitutional by-law Canada Revenue Seminar at 1 p.m. We will have • Bathing & grooming assistance Whether you need just a few hours a week amendments. snooker in the afternoon for ladies, and I note, many • Medication reminders or full-time 24 hour care, call us today Please plan to attend since the board of directors ladies play snooker with the men, and play very well. • Toileting assistance – we’re here to help. must have a quorum to validate and provide authority Other activities include canasta, the very popular • Dressing assistance to the meeting and the proposed amendments. pickle ball, bid euchre, bingo, Tai-Chi, the sewing club • Oral hygiene assistance Also, this is your opportunity to voice your opinion and in the evening the Friday night dance. Homemaking: Companionship: • Meal planning & preparation • Conversation/socializing • Laundry & linen washing • Pet care assistance Wells St. school’s history • Vacuuming • Walks and strolls • Light cleaning/housekeeping • Playing games/cards • Grocery shopping • Reading is subject of literacy project • Running errands Accompaniment/Transportation: Want to know back- heritage celebrations is Ontario Heritage Award for Street classroom from the • Professional visits (doctor/dentist) ground about Wells Street planned for April 18. Lifetime Achievement. past, the present and the • Social events Public School? Opening ceremonies In addition, the first per- future. • Church Just ask one of its stu- begin at 6 p.m. and will formance of the Wells Former teachers, stu- • Shopping/Banking dents. feature special guest Street school song will dents and community They have been speaker; Jacqueline also take place. members who may have involved in a school-wide Stuart, former Aurora Guests will be invited to special memories or mem- 905-727-6200 literacy project focusing on Museum curator who browse displays in various orabilia they might like to GracefulLiving Inc. the history and heritage of recently received the locations throughout the share should contact 905- Your Trusted In-Home Senior Care Agency 15213 Yonge St, Suite 15, Aurora, ON L4G 1L8 the school and a day of Lieutenant Governor's school and explore a Wells 727-4722. www.gracefullivinginc.com CORRECTION 2007 AURORA NOTICE FARMERS MARKET The Town of Aurora Mayor Phyllis Morris, Members of Town Council would like to correct the and the Economic Development Advisory Committee Telephone Contact Number are pleased to invite local vendors of on the fruit, vegetable and other fresh produce, plants, herbs, flowers and art and crafts to consider 2007 Pet License Renewals booking a stall for the 2007 season.

The correct number is The Mayor also welcomes citizens who would like to (905) 726-4751. form a committee to step forward to help make this year’s local downtown market a great success.

The Town regrets any inconvenience Please email any expressions of interest to caused by this error. Mayor Phyllis Morris at [email protected] AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 - 17

RUMOURS AND RAMBLINGS When Aurora was a small town Back in 1966, Aurora had a population of about approximately 900 pedestrians, mostly students, Then, in February, speaking to the annual meeting 9,000 after growing through its largest growth period crossed Wellington Street at Haida Drive daily of the Rural Section of the Association of with the population doubling almost overnight with the between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. then Aurora Mayor Dick Municipalities of Ontario, he said that "Local decisions building of Regency Acres and Aurora Heights subdivi- Illingworth tried to get a pedestrian crosswalk at the are better than those from Queen's Park". sions. intersection and more legal authority given to school Then at the August annual AMO conference, much That year, the administration staff of the town was crossing guards to control traffic. to the consternation and objection of attending munic- increased to three members with the hiring of Carol The regional engineering committee claimed that a ipal delegates, the Minister implied that his position Preston. crossing guard capable of controlling pedestrians had been reversed. The other two members were Colleen Gowan in the should be able to operate the crossing area without His renewed “amalgamate or face the conse- Clerk's department and Dorothy Wardle in the Treasury the aid of a pedestrian crosswalk, although the region- quences” stance showed complete disrespect for local Department under the direction of Clerk/Treasurer Bill al solicitor noted that the guard had only the same government and Bill 26 became the law. Johnson. authority as a parent, but no legal authority. Not much has changed over the years as munici- Both Gowan and Wardle retired in 1991 each with Aurora Council maintained the pressure on the palities are still creatures of the province. 31 years of service with the town. region and finally in November, 1972, was successful Johnson was also Justice of the Peace and dis- in obtaining a pedestrian crosswalk for the intersec- pensed justice on traffic violations. tion. The mayor had the title of Chief Magistrate but it Later, traffic signals were installed. Training Services was a title only. (905) 713-3733 At that time there was once only tax billing and the QUESTION ANSWERED bills were prepared manually. • Aurora’s First Choice For Driver Training With the growth of the municipality, a new method of In The Auroran March 6, we wondered in this col- preparing tax bills was needed and Aurora became the umn whatever happened to Aurora’s Syd Burstoff, the • In Driver Education since 1979 first small town in the area to install an in-house com- man who had a degree in “buttonology” and wore an • MTO Approved Course Provider puter and Carol Preston was the first computer opera- outfit covered with some 8,500 buttons. tor. He was known as a Pearly King. ON-GOING MONTHLY CLASSES With the aid of the computer it was possible to intro- The answer came from Aurora’s Barbara Stoecklin, www.ontarionewdrivers.ca duce interim tax billing so that the town's cash flow who said Syd died in December, 2003. started early in the year and it was no longer neces- Meanwhile, Aurora’s Cliff Davies submitted some sary to borrow money from the bank for the operation information on how the Pearlies came about. of the town until the taxes became due. He writes: “Londoners, born within the sound of the The introduction of the computer and interim tax bells of the Bow church, in the centre of London, billing caused a sharp division on council as some of England, are known as Cockneys, with a slang lan- Light up your life! the oldtimers didn't want to change from the old tradi- guage of their own, many of whom, called Lighting ¥ Fixtures ¥ Fans tional way and claimed that issuing two interim and "Costermongers", made a living by selling wares from two final tax bills would result in council being run out wheeled handcarts, called Barrows, hence the song of town on a rail "Barrow Boy". Great Prices That was Aurora back in the 1960s. “In the middle of the 19th Century, when these 220 Industrial Pkwy. S. 905-841-2832 Barrow Boys or Costermongers were being harassed WHEN RESIDENTS BLOCKED A STREET by thugs, they formed a security force for protection. Call for hours “Members of this force distinguished themselves by Back in May, 1972, residents in the Catherine sewing pearl buttons on their clothes. Avenue/Catherine Crescent area submitted a brief to “Later, in each Borough of London, these Pearlies, council objecting to construction trucks in their area dressed in their pearl togs and led by Pearly Kings and going to Wimpey's Aston Dene subdivision on Walton Queens, formed entertainment groups and of course, Drive and an approved route was designated for the their sons were Princes. construction trucks. “Syd Burstoff was known as The Prince of Pimlico in But tempers flared one morning when a truck driver the Borough of Westminster and after his father died, • Manicure • Solar Nails got lost in the Catherine Avenue district. Syd became a Pearly King.” • Spa Pedicure • UV Gel Nails The driver, attempting to make a turn at Catherine • Bio Gel • Acrylic Crescent and Centre Street clipped a hydro pole, POLITICIANS SHOULD WEAR UNIFORMS • Air Brush Design snapping it in half. Walk-ins welcome The Wimpey project engineer gave the driver per- According to a recent survey, there is something mission to use the prohibited Catherine Avenue route about a uniform that instills trust. 130 Hollidge Blvd. • 905-727-6030 as an alternative, but the driver got lost and drove up Firefighters top the list of the most trusted and and down the street two or three times causing one close behind are nurses, airline pilots, doctors, police resident to block the street with his car and the police officers and soldiers all with a ranking above 65. were called. Selected as the least trustworthy were national By 10 a.m. the situation had reached a point where politicians and car salesmen tied with a ranking of police, residents and Councillor Illtyd Harris were seven, local politicians 12, CEOs 21, lawyers 25, jour- involved in a heated debate on the street. nalists 26 and real estate agents 28. SERVICES The project engineer denied he had instructed truck Notice the last group of people don’t wear uniforms. ¥ Acupuncture ¥ Chinese Herbal Medicine ¥ Tui Na Massage drivers to use Catherine Avenue and there had not TREATMENTS been three trucks but one confused truck driver. POLITICAL STATEMENTS ¥ Pain Management ¥ Infertility & Menopause Care Wimpey issued orders that all its suppliers must use ¥ Cancer & Tumors ¥ Many Internal Illnesses Catherine Crescent only to get to its site and posted In a statement to the Legislature in January, 1996, Dr. Annie Chen Ph.D TCMD (Traditional Chinese Medicine Doctor) OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE warning signs at the intersections of Yonge and during the third reading of Bill 26 the Savings and Catherine Avenue, Maple Street and Mark Street. Restructuring Act, Municipal Affairs Minister Al Leach 15208 Yonge St., Aurora • 905-713-0666 said the legislation recognizes that municipalities had TRYING TO GET A CROSSWALK AT HAIDA grown up. "They have been asking us to stop treating them as In May, 1972, the school crossing guard at Haida children of the province. I think that Bill 26 is clear Drive and Wellington Street West complained that recognition that municipalities are capable of manag- motorists did not heed her as she tried to shepherd ing much more, that they can make their own decisions students to the Aurora Senior Public School. on matters of local interest and that they act responsi- Based on a regional traffic study that indicated bly." Blood donor clinic at Legion March 29 DON’T GET CAUGHT Canadian Blood Services "We must continue sup- 888-2 DONATE. First time The Aurora Legion build- is asking Aurorans to cele- plying blood and blood prod- donors are always wel- ing is on Industrial Parkway WITH YOUR brate spring by attending a ucts for cancer treatments, come." North. blood donor clinic in Aurora surgeries, and accidents March 29. that happen every day in BUMPER DRAGGING The clinic will be held at every community across the Aurora Legion, from 2.30 Canada," said Tami Clark, Find Out What your Come to p.m. to 8 p.m. CBS Clinic Recruitment Severe weather this win- Coordinator. "The need for Home is Worth On-Line YORK SPRING & RADIATOR ter resulted in some blood blood is constant; that is why visit: FOR ALL OF YOUR donor clinic cancellations, Canadian Blood Services is SUSPENSION NEEDS and with the change of sea- asking all eligible blood son Canadian Blood donors to honour their previ- Extra leaves, shocks, coil springs & struts Services is encouraging ously booked appointments www.QuickOnlineEvaluation.com ReMax Omega Realty (1988) Ltd. 60 Industrial donors to help replenish the or to act now and make a 905727-3121 blood supply. blood donation by calling 1- Pkwy. North, Aurora 18 - AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 Chamber seeks nominations for Awards evening

Every year the Aurora Franchise of the Year cat- strategy. Aurora-based businesses endorsement by your presentation by a compa- Chamber of Commerce egory. In addition to the and do not have to be financial professional is ny representative solicits nominations for The Business Person above categories, the members of the Chamber requested.. describing the product or the annual Business of the Year Award is an Chamber is seeking nom- of Commerce. Once the nominations service provided by the Achievement Awards in individual award. inations for excellence in If they’re not, they will are received, they will be firm which is shown at the various categories. The successful nomi- human resources, prod- be encouraged to join. forwarded to a judging awards night. "Celebrating Business nee will have provided a uct innovation, technolog- Nominees may be panel of up to three inde- Nomination forms are Excellence in Aurora" will high standard of excel- ical advancements, nominated in more than pendent members of the available at the Chamber be held this year October lence in the Aurora busi- research and develop- one category and you Aurora business commu- office and must be 19 at DiNardo's The ness community and ment, marketing tech- may nominate yourself. nity. returned no later than Mansion on the Industrial shown vision and leader- niques, sales growth, etc. Financial statements When the finalists are March 30. Parkway South. ship, innovation and for New Corporate are not required and pre- selected Aurora Cable For more information Deadline for nomina- achievement, business Sponsored Awards. vious nominees are also Internet visits the place contact the Chamber tions at the Chamber growth and development Nominees must be eligible, however an of business and tapes a office at 905-727-7262. office is March 30. The Young Entrepreneur Recognition Award is for a person under 30 years of age who has developed his or her own Aurora-based enterprise. The nominated individuals must demon- strate entrepreneurial skills/basic business concepts in any of, but not limited to the following areas: organization, management, marketing, hands-on customer experience and leadership potential. The New Venture Award recognizes excellence in starting and operating an Aurora- based business within the past 36 months. This year there will be three separate Business Excellence Awards, so it will be necessary to be very specific as to the number of employees when making nominations. There will be an award for owner-operated with fewer than five employees, fewer than 25 employees and more than 25 employees. There is also a

New to the community? Expecting a baby at your house? Newly Engaged? New Business/ Professional? A Civic minded Business interested in sponsoring Welcome Wagon?

If you fit into one of these categories and have not been contacted by us, Please call 905-853-4645Please call 1-866-873-9913 AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007 - 19 CLASSIFIEDS

Special rates: non-commercial word ads: $20.00 (+g.s.t.) four weeks or, $15.95 (+g.s.t.) two weeks minimum 15 words (Applies to word ads only). Got something to sell or advertise? Give us a call - 905-727-7128, fax - 905-727-2620 or go to www.auroran.com then click classifieds to send your ad ¥ More than 76,000 copies delivered to Aurorans each month!

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The UPS STORE in Aurora Commercial Cleaning Service For more information, 14845 Yonge St. Unit 6, Aurora For free Commercial/residential CARPET - I have sev- call Brian at 905-726- 905-713-1632 Fax: 905-713-1633 estimates eral thousand yards of 1019 Email: [email protected] call any day any time new Stainmaster 905-717-2740 Maid ask for Sue. FREE ESTIMATE and 100% Olefin ¥ APT. FOR RENT ¥ THERAPY carpet. I will carpet FREE your living room & hall LUXURY ONE ESTIMATES 905-392-1589 to Shine for $389. Price BEDROOM double PSYCHOTHERAPY includes carpet, pad ¥ and installation (30 door walkout to Are you feeling BUILDING CONTRACTOR square yards). Steve pool area. Separate sad, lonely, PROFESSIONAL 905-898-0127. entrance. Spacious anxious, CLEANING open concept with gas empty... FOR fire-place. Very private. with a personal touch North-central Aurora. A compassionate, understanding EUREUROPEOPE SALE Call: 905-751-6013 for therapist can help ease your distress. DESIGN BUILD INC. • Serving Aurora for 8 yrs. appointment. Don’t struggle alone. Luanne Jakobi • Customized Services Psychotherapist • KITCHENS • BATHROOMS ¥ HELP WANTED 905/726-4341 • Same Professional Aurora • BASEMENTS • COMMERCIAL and Reliable Staff BUSY SALON NOW ¥ FLOWERS HIRING p/t f/t stylist. ¥ AESTHETICS Since The highest standards in quality, • Insured & Bonded Benefits, high hourly & 1990 safety and customer service. commission. COLD Call for an in-home Management opportuni- PORCELAIN/SILK ty. Monthly incentives. 416.824.7552 consultation Advanced training & TINA’S much more. Call Jannie AESTHETICS 905-713-5636 ¥ CONSTRUCTION today 1-888-888-7778 Flower ext. 2384. arrangements Member of Aurora GARDENER/HANDY for sale or rent. Specials A&H CONSTRUCTION Chamber of Commerce MAN to help two old Everything in fogies with their FOR ANY OCCASION RELAXATION WELLNESS HOLIDAY & MAINTENANCE chores. 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Please call: 416- *Tell a friend and receive $10 OFF your next visit. 278-9918 905-726-2894 Phil: 905-392-0572 ¥ HANDYMAN ¥ BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES ¥ ENERGY HEALER People BOWTIE ¥ SCRAP PICK-UP STRAIGHT HANDYWORK & HOME DÉCOR FROM THE HEART RENOVATIONS may not A SELF INQUIRY that comes to your door! JOURNEY QUALITY WORK SCRAP WANTED REASONABLE RATES need your HOME INTERIORS “THOUGHTS ALL JOBS ANY SIZE & GIFTS SHORT NOTICE CREATE SENIORS DISCOUNT I’LL PICK UP YOUR SCRAP R&R services In home business THINGS” STEVE cars and trucks at no charge, and in some R&R lovely home décor! Group REVISITED Local rep to help you Sharing/Meditation 416.723.8690 Visualization cases, pay you for them. All deals negotiable right now... get started Weds Evenings 7-9pm – Aurora Area HARRIS Call 905-751-3019 Unlimited opportunities Call Cathy Bell for more HOME available info at 416-737-1795 IMPROVEMENTS Facilitator/Spiritual ¥ HOME Intuitive Professional home repairs FLEXIBLE, FUN Energy Healer & renovations. Carpentry, if you AND PROFITABLE painting, plastering, ceramics, floors, windows ¥ CAMERA CLUB & doors, plumbing GIANT want Call Faye installations etc. GARBAGE SALE ~WE DO DRYWALL REMOVAL SERVICE @ 905-726-1078 AND TAPING [email protected] BATHROOMS AND We pick up all your household rubbish. to be BASEMENTS ~ Need your garage, basement, yard or attic cleaned up? Jeff 905-713-0325 AURORA or, 905-716-2214 No Job too small. there when THE AURORAN DELIVERS FREE ESTIMATES 905 ON USED 915,000COPIES 773-8033 they do PER YEAR Year-Round Maintenance Company DIGITAL RONALD Advertise in Auroran RENOVATIONS DONE RIGHT Classifieds all year CAMERA CLUB LICENSED CALL: as low as $10/wk. PLUMBER Serving York Region for over 10 years BOOKS (This section only) Home or office we specialize in all AURORAN Consistency • Bath renovations interior & exterior renovations is the key to If interested, email • plumbing and CLASSIFIEDS successful drain repairs ¥ Additions/Expansions ¥ Flooring advertising. [email protected] ¥ Basements ¥ Painting MON. - SAT. 10 - 4 • new installations ¥ Landscaping ¥ Decks & Patios ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ We are here to Most available Seniors receive a 10% Discount SUN. 12 - 4 Indicate skill level, after hours & assist you Call TODAY for a FREE QUOTE camera and main weekends 75 Mary Street, Unit 3 905- 7 DAYS A WEEK Two Brothers General Contractors 905 topics of interest. Call 727-3300 727-7128 905-727-7128 416 .824.8823 416-562-7153 CLASSES • SEMINARS • WORKSHOPS • COURSES ~ Directory ~

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 and click classifieds and the form window will come up. ¥ SEMINAR ART ¥ SWIMMING LESSONS ¥ STUDY GROUP ¥ LATIN/BALLROOM DANCE CLASSES SWIMMING STUDY GROUP (MAD INSTRUCTION By MONEY) meeting regu- CLASSES Yvonne Cattrall, - larly in Aurora. Learn DANCE PARTY DRAWING CLASS All Masters World Record Jim Cramer’s rules of SEMINARS level small group holder, 43 years experi- investing. Books English and Chinese. ence, certified Red required. No fee. Call Yunhong at Cross Instructor. Year Educational only. Call WORKSHOPS April 905-713-3650 round, all levels, 3-4 905-751-6013 http://www.yhartstu- maximum in class. 905- 7 p.m. - Midnight dio.com 841-3450 AND COURSES Aurora Legion - 105 Ind. Pkwy. N. ¥ GARDENING COURSES Couples and Singles Welcome (Ages 19 and up) ¥ RIDING LESSONS 7 p.m. - midnight in the Aurora Legion BALLROOM ($15) Strict Tempo Music - Line Dance - Refreshments - Cash Bar - Door Prizes ¥ YOGA Merlin’s Hollow Gardening Courses CLASSES Mondays 8 p.m. at the Aurora Legion ($75/8wks) www.yogaforlife.ca Practical, adventurous and environmentally friendly Ind. Pkwy. north of Wellington on the right side. YOGA General and Advanced Start: Monday, March 5th, 2007 for eight weeks For stress relief 6 x 2 hour classes, monthly, April - October & health. Held in Merlin’s Hollow, an acre garden of PRACTICE perennial beds, rock gardens, shade beds, (Includes 30 min. lesson, dance practice & line dances) Spring 07’ Session pond and fragrant garden Every Thursday 7-10 p.m. at the Lions Hall, ($7) Spaces available Starts weekend of April 28th. South east corner of Mosley and Victoria Sts. Mon/Wed. Evenings Space is Limited :(6 Mon/Fri. Mornings Call : Steve Miller at 416-439-6557 or visit 905-505-1324 David Tomlinson Aurora Public Library Renowned horticulturalist and naturalist Site: www.SteveMillerDance.ca Andrea Roth cert. yoga teacher since 1979. Call Dierdre Tomlinson 905-727-8979 Email: [email protected] 20 - AURORAN, Week of March 20, 2007

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