AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Page 1 FEATURES Barrons Lifestylewindows INC

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YEARS

Aurora’s Community Newspaper

CMCA Vol. 21 No. 8 905-727-3300 TheAuroran.com FREE Week of December 3, 2020 AUDITED

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Terry Sherin Sales Representative 905-727-3154 [email protected] UP, UP AND AWAY – Aurorans came together on Saturday night for a Santa Under the Stars parade to remember. Traditionally, in the lead-up to the holiday season, Santa Claus makes his way down Yonge Street where he is greeted by thousands of residents lining the route. This year, due to the global pandemic, parade-goers came to him as he hosted a “stationary” parade at the Aurora Family Leisure Complex. For full coverage of the Santa Under the Stars parade, as well as this weekend’s Christmas Market at Town Park, see Pages 18 and 19. Auroran photos by Glenn Rodger 94-year-old man first Auroran

LARGE 3-TOPPING to lose COVID battle since June Santaeia.com$3199 BY BROCK WEIR 11 with two cases among its caregiver resident in this second wave of the PIZZA EDITOR LOCAL JOURNALISM complement of 40. virus, the day after the Region logged & 2 LBS WINGS INITIATIVE REPORTER By press time this week, there were a record of new cases in a single day: 15480 Bayview Ave. ust north o ellinton 15480 BAYVIEW AVENUE in the Sobes laa near A 94-year-old man is the first 11 confirmed cases of the virus among 251 on Sunday, November 29. The last 905-503-3300UROR O ood ie itness Aurora resident to lose their battle with the 65 residents and 4 among caregivers victim, an 85-year-old woman who was Santafepizza.ca905-503-3300 COVID-19 since June 9. and staff. a resident of Chartwell Aurora lost the The man was a resident of Chartwell Aurora, as of December 1, has seen battle after a long hospitalization. Park Place, which is currently in an a total of 371 cases of the virus, 27 of “Our cases in York Region had been Providing you active outbreak situation. which remain active. plateauing until the weekend when with the An active outbreak at the Yonge 328 cases are now marked as resolved we saw quite a jump in the numbers knowledge Street residence, formerly Park Place with the late Chartwell Park Place of cases and we don’t know exactly and Manor, was first reported by York resident bringing fatalities to 16. what is responsible for this jump and resources Region Public Health on November His death was the first of an Aurora Continued on page 9 MARIA ONGARO to make B.Comm BROKER the right move! Education and OFFICE 905-727-1941 awareness not MOBILE 289-221-4564 enough to tackle www.mariaongaro.com racism: Task Force BY BROCK WEIR of Lightingof ideas from EDITOR LOCAL JOURNALISM New hours S INITIATIVE REPORTER of 1000LIGHTINGAURORA’SIDEAS #1 LIGHTING STORE Growing up in Aurora, Keenan Hull Mon Tue Wed Fri 10am -6pm Thurs 10am- 8pm says he experienced little racism in his Sat 10am -5pm LIGHTINGAURORA’SIDEAS #1 LIGHTING STORE Sun. Closed youth – but there came a point where the tide began to turn. . with 1000’s of styles to choose from! HOURS Mon - Fri - 10 - 6 Sat 10 - 5 | Sun 12 - 4 “I didn’t see any aggressive racism Th anks you All major credit cards accepted Yone Street Aurora On (905) 727-7347 until I got older, turning into a Black EMPTY BOWLS WARM HEARTS – Despite present challenges,Doug Aurora’s Pine Tree Lampshades man instead of a Black boy,” he said. “It Potters Guild hosted a modified Empty Bowls fundraiser outside Trinity Anglican Church with 1000’s of styles to choose& we from! can arrange HOURS Mon - Fri - 10 - 6 for installation on Saturday afternoon. Here, Guild members Linda and Hazel display two of the hundreds Sat 10 - 5 | Sun 12 - 4 was more microaggressions and [people] All major credit cards accepted of hand-made bowls that were available for pickup – all for a good cause. For more, see YoneNEW Street HOURS Aurora: Mon On Tue Wed Fri 10am - 6pm, Thurs 10am- 8pm would just have those assumptions about (905) 727-7347 Sat 10am - 5pm, Sun. Closed Page 13. Auroran photo by Brock Weir Continued on page 11 15570 Yonge Street Aurora 905-727-7347 www.thelightspot.ca | | ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

Happy SOLD Holidays && StayStay Safe!Safe! Susan Cowen and Andrew Cowen [email protected] 905-727-1941 $1,795,000 $2,350,000 St. Andrew’s On The Hill – Bright 3900sf. All Bdrms Have Ensuites! St. Andrew’s On The Hill – 5100sf + Fin Bsmt! Quality Renos Thru- Excellent Work-At Home Ofﬁ ce Space! Fin Bsmt, Wet Bar, 2nd Out. All Bdrms Have Full/Shared Ens & Walk-In Closets! Beautiful Ofﬁ ce/Hobby Rm & Bath. Private Yard W/ Ing. Pool, & Patio. Yard Feat. Pool W/Waterfall, Patio & Gazebo! Page 2 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020

Notice Board

Council & Committee Meetings What’s Happening Date Time Location Meeting

Tuesday, December 8 5:45 p.m. Video conference Finance Advisory Committee AURORA’S Tuesday, December 8 7 p.m. Video conference Public Planning Meeting Wednesday, December 9 6:30 p.m. Video conference Aurora Cultural Centre Board (Public Meeting) Wednesday, December 9 7 p.m. Video conference Accessibility Advisory Committee Wednesday, December 9 7 p.m. Video conference Aurora Public Library Board Thursday, December 10 7 p.m. Video conference Committee of Adjustment 2020 Tuesday, December 15 5:45 p.m. Video conference Council Closed Session (if required) Presented by Tuesday, December 15 7 p.m. Video conference Council AURORA TOWN PARK *Meetings can be viewed online by visiting aurora.ca/livecouncilmeeting 49 Wells Street DECEMBER 4 to 6 DECEMBER 11 to 13 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. What’s Happening What’s Happening PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED TO ATTEND IN-PERSON!

NEW THIS YEAR... Community Services VISIT OUR VIRTUAL MARKET! Winter 2021 Program Guide VENDORS EACH DAY HOLIDAY FESTIVE PROGRAMS HANDS ON VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS REGISTRATION STARTS DECEMBER 14 VIRTUAL FAMILY ACTIVITIES

For admission details and schedule of daily features, please visit: aurora.ca/christmasmarket 905-726-4762 | #AuroraChristmasMarket

Please note, we reserve the right to cancel, amend or change activities. Online Skylight Gallery Exhibition aurora.ca Artist: The Society of York Region Artists Just in time for Christmas! During the month of December, Winter 2021 Community Services Program Funding provided by Proudly sponsored by enjoy the exhibition ‘Small Works’, featuring pieces that are just Guide about the right size to brighten any space. Each small treasure is certain to bring a smile to someone’s face. All artwork is The Winter 2021 Community Services Program Guide will original and created by members of the Society of York Region be delivered to all Aurora households with The Banner on Artists (SOYRA), part of Aurora’s vibrant arts and cultural Thursday, December 10. View the Program Guide online at aurora.ca/recguide. community. For more information about SOYRA, visit their website and Facebook page for current activities at soyra.ca Online registration for Recreation and Aquatics programs starts on Monday, December 14 at aurora.ca/eplay. TOWN OF AURORA and facebook.com/soyra.ca View this online gallery at aurora.ca/skylightgallery. Club Aurora Virtual Group Fitness classes Winter Overnight Parking Restrictions in Join us for a Group Fitness Class in the comfort of your own effect as of November 15 home by pre-registering for one of our exciting virtual classes. Winter overnight parking restrictions will be in effect between Learn about our virtual programs and view the schedule online 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. as of November 15, 2020 until at aurora.ca/fitness. April 15, 2021. Parking restrictions will be enforced regardless of the current weather or road conditions during this time period. Aurora Family Leisure Complex (AFLC) & As a vehicle owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex (SARC) your parked vehicle is off the roadway between 2 a.m. and Pools 6 a.m. and while snow clearing operations are underway. Bylaw officers will be ticketing vehicles that are parked on the The AFLC and SARC pools are open and offering Learn to roadways overnight during the restricted hours. The fine for Swim, Lane Swim and Aquafit classes, in addition to the each parking offence is $50. Fines for interfering with snow SARC Therapy Pool. FREE EVENT removal are $75. View schedules online at aurora.ca/aquatics. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2020 The overnight winter parking restrictions provides a proactive Pre-register online at aurora.ca/eplay. approach to road safety. Our fleet of snow clearing equipment Two ceremony times and crews maintain approximately 195 km of roads and 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. | Aurora Town Hall 210 km of sidewalks. Traffic is usually not heavy during the overnight hours, which helps crews meet service delivery Pre-registration required. All are welcome to join in the standards for snow removal and maintenance. Winter festivities which include the lighting of the menorah, maintenance may occur over several days before or after traditional celebratory foods and fire jugglng entertainment. inclement weather. LIMITED SPACE. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED Staff will be taking a proactive approach by incorporating FOR BOTH CEREMONIES. multiple shift options to ensure the proper COVID-19 health and safety protocols are being followed. Register at aurora.ca/eplay For more detailed information on winter overnight parking or to find out real-time information about when your street has been aurora.ca/menorahlighting | 905-726-4762 | #AuroraMenorahLighting or will be plowed, please visit aurora.ca/snow. Interested in getting in the holiday spirit safely from your own home? The Town of Aurora is welcoming members of the

community to submit a cookie (or treat) recipe to be featured in We reserve the right to cancel, amend, or change activities. Aurora’s Holiday Cookie Book! This recipe book will be compiled THREE BAG and sent out electronically to all contributors prior to the holiday break. Don’t have a recipe to share but still want to receive a OR CONTAINER copy? Individuals can still sign up to receive the final Holiday LIMIT Cookie Book! AURORA’S 2020 We hope you’ll join in this free holiday initiative! For more DID YOU KNOW? information and to submit a recipe, visit online at aurora.ca/CookieBook. Town of Aurora residents can place up to three (3) bags Deck the Halls or containers out for pickup every other week on TOUR regularly scheduled collection days. All garbage should be placed in a Town approved SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 container or black plastic bag. TO SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. OR

No more than 133 litres or 50 pounds maximum. No loose material, all items must be bagged and tied.

Effective January 2021, bags will not be collected beyond the limit.

Additional waste will have a non-compliant sticker RBC EMERGING ARTIST SERIES placed on it and will be left behind. Additional waste can be kept until the next waste collection week or dropped off at the closest waste depot The Bombadils transfer station. Keepin’ It Cozy Live online from their comfy Halifax home studio. As outlined in Bylaw #5590-14 section 4.16, the number of items put out for collection from any premise on any Take a tour around Aurora to joyfully admire the homes on Register for free: collection day shall not exceed a total of three (3) garbage Aurora’s Deck the Halls Tour. The exceptionally decorated homes on bags and shall not exceed a total of five (5) bulky items. AuroraCulturalCentre.ca/event/the-bombadils-live-online this tour will be a truly festive experience which can be done 1 pm ET Sunday December 6, 2020 safely from your vehicle. You might even find Santa along the way! For more information, please visit: Go to aurora.ca/deckthehalls for more details. aurora.ca/wasteandrecycling The Aurora Cultural Centre relies on the generous support of our donors for all of our programs. 905-727-1375 • [email protected] Please consider making a donation with your ticket. Thank you! 905-726-4762 • #AuroraDeckTheHalls Please note, we reserve the right to cancel, amend or change activities.

AuroraCulturalCentre.ca Funding provided by THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Page 3

Urban design guidelines BALLANTRAE CUSTOM approved for Aurora’s CABINETS INC. Stable Neighbourhoods

BY BROCK WEIR “Staff should be keeping a record of We sell EDITOR what they recommend to developers, HOME OFFICES, CLOSETS LOCAL JOURNALISM MURPHY BEDS, WALL UNITS INITIATIVE REPORTER that the developers aren’t interested in KITCHENS following,” she continued. “I think it is all types of Urban design guidelines to help steer information Council should know and new builds in long-established local the residents want to have.” Filters communities were formally endorsed But this motion was ultimately by Council last week. unsuccessful with other lawmakers The extensive list of guidelines stating they were unsure what was Humidiﬁers provides parameters on everything hoped to be achieved by the report. from size to materials in order to “I am always happy to provide the Air Cleaners ensure the new builds fit into what residents with more information [but] is already in the Regency Acres and I just fail to see the value it will get by 5906 KING ROAD, NOBLETON 905-558-2227 Aurora Heights communities, as well as doing this,” said Councillor John Gallo. & Water Pumps www.ballantraecustomcabinets.ca neighbourhoods on Temperance Street Also casting doubt on including that Custom designs created and and around Town Park. in the report was Councillor Michael built just for you Along with the guidelines, Council Thompson, who said as what was Tel: 905-727-6401 8 Industrial Pkwy. S. www.nyhp.on.ca Aurora, Ontario Proudly locally manufactured. approved a semi-annual report that being recommended were guidelines Family owned and operated. will outline to lawmakers the variance for developers, the ultimate tools for applications that have come forward compliance are the Town’s zoning and what has been approved. bylaws. “The report will allow staff to identify “The guidelines [are] meant to be NOW SELLING trends and allow Council to better able to shape the design, but there is understand what development activity a degree of flexibility in it,” he said. is taking place within the established “If we want compliance in these areas, Stable Neighbourhoods,” said the let’s reopen the zoning bylaw and put it Town in a statement. “Under the back in the zoning bylaw and go down Official Plan, stable neighbourhoods that road. Guidelines are just a tool and are protected from incompatible forms what Councillor Gaertner refers to in of development, and new development all those [areas] are subjective terms in these areas must respect and reinforce and they are open to interpretation. the area’s existing physical character “The design guidelines are not and uses.” meant for that kind of compliance. While a semi-annual update to They are just meant to shape it and Council was a request made by that is why producing this report would residents, particularly those in the be so onerous because then it becomes PARK Regency Acres neighbourhood, the a question of debating the subjective report process as approved did not go determination of what each term far enough. means and whether it was correct or They requested the semi-annual incorrect. I don’t want to go down that updates include a list of what road at all.” applications were denied and why, a Councillor Harold Kim agreed, process which staff said would be too noting that the motion would take these TOWER RETIREMENT RESIDENCES “onerous” to compile. guidelines in the direction of a bylaw. Council agreed while sitting at “I want to keep it high level and even the Committee level the previous if we went to that level of detail, what are week and when their decision came we going to do with that information? up for ratification on November 24, I suspect we’re going to try and create AT THE MEADOWS Councillor Wendy Gartner renewed bylaws out of that and we go back to the call. Square 1 where we started two or three AurOrA’S NEWEST rETIrEmENT rESIdENcE The main concerns of residents, years ago. It is for those reasons as well fOr INdEpENdENT LIvING she said, stemmed from privacy, intended as the amendment is, I cannot particularly concerning rear yards, support that,” he said. Consider our “Continuum of Living” approach to and the maintaining of the existing Keeping an eye on how the guidelines retirement living, the full range of amenities available, along streetscape. go was something Councillor Rachel with our caring Christian community and our park-like setting. Privacy concerns included Gilliland said she supported, and that minimizing the location of second floor she understood what the residents were Sales are happening now and feature both balconies on rear side elevations. looking for, but what was being asked pre-construction pricing and a 3% Additional issues ranged from the was too broad. protection of trees to setting a maximum “I feel if they came with their Top “Early purchaser’s discount” that could translate of three entrance steps to “encourage 2 or Top 3 concrete things that were up to $32,900 in savings for you. low profile entrance features close to the most important [and] relevant, the ground.” maybe we can have a conversation, “The residents have requested but it is almost the entire urban design MORE THAN A HOME. A COMMUNITY. reporting when consistency with the guidelines that are being asked here,” 400 William Graham Drive at Leslie Street, Aurora design guidelines is not adhered to she said. “It is so subjective and it is so by the developer,” said Councillor many topics. I would think it would be 905 503 5560 • [email protected] Gaertner, making a motion that the very a very onerous thing for our staff themeadowsofaurora.com report “include instances where staff- to be reporting back on. approved variances regarding front “We’re stuck between a rock and a By appointment only. Please call 905 503 5560 and side yard setbacks, privacy and hard place here with some subjective Monday to Friday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm streetscapes are not consistent with the opinions, but it is not really going to do Saturday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm stable neighbourhood guidelines.” us any service.” Page 4 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Machell’s Corners A note of thanks to Good Samaritan It has been a difficult year for everyone everywhere. Some of us are out of work, missing our family and friends, some are experiencing financial difficulties and some experiencing grieving a loss of a loved one due to COVID. We put our mask on, put our head down and try not to talk or socialize with anyone. A couple of weeks ago, I needed air in my tire and stopped at the Esso on Yonge Street in Aurora. I exited my vehicle and took my wallet with me to pay for the air service. I put the air in my tire and left to drive to Whitby for an appointment. I had just pulled over to pick up a coffee in Whitby when a friend from the management office of the building I live in called to tell me she had my wallet. I then remembered putting my wallet on top of my vehicle when I pumped air and then forgot about it. I was stunned. This lovely man picked up my wallet in the middle of Yonge Street and personally delivered it to my residence. He spoke to the maintenance worker Black Friday Echoes who luckily was working outside at the It almost used to be fun watching this to five-years’ worth of paper towels, time and explained the situation. nonsense unfold from what might be flashbacks were rampant. He gave our worker my wallet and described as a mid-to-high horse. After If people are going this wild over said he didn’t want a fuss about what he all, these were scenes that transpired necessary, but well supplied paper did for me and left. south of our border and couldn’t products made right here at home, how How wonderful this man was. possibly happen here. Right? Right?! wild would it possibly get if a deal on He took the time to drive to my Wrong. an Instant Pot, curved screen TV, video residence and do this. As a Canadian kid, starting the game console, and any and all associated From what I can glean from the story day with a few snippets of the Macy’s accessories was in the offing – in a is that it was a man with an eastern Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York pandemic, no less? European accent. City was always something to look BROCK’S A number of worst-case scenarios That is all I know. forward to before school. BANTER went through my head. In this time of uncertainty, stress Although we get our turkey-related In the quest for gewgaws and and financial worries, health concerns holiday a month in advance of our Brock Weir gadgetry, how would social distance be and fighting politicians on both sides American cousins, it was, and is, a maintained? Would it bring out the worst of the border, how wonderful to have spectacle that transcends nations. if local businesses can maximize in us when we’re still supposed to be all in a lovely man and with his actions lifted It is an occasion, no matter what side an opportunity in this undoubtedly this together? Would we still have to wait my heart. of the border you live on, that never challenging time, so much the better; approximately two weeks before finding I am forever grateful. fails to set the tone for the holiday but it is the ritualistic nature of this out whether this strange commercial To my angel, I wish you health and season ahead but, for us, once that was spending spree that has always made ritual would become a super-spreader happiness and a big “Thank You” from done, it was just a regular day and we me uncomfortable – and the fact that event? me. Joanne Wilson went about our regular business. As it spread across the border like a slow- The first two questions have already Aurora we did the next day as we finished our moving wildfire. answered themselves, and I am glad to five-day grind with an eye to another And yet, I too have succumbed against say that with few exceptions worst case ordinary weekend. my better judgement. Once. scenarios weren’t realized. But the jury is Ron will be missed: If we were so inclined for more As I have previously written in this still out on the last. readers spectacle, however, we could turn on space, every day with the merest press of Exacerbating these concerns is the cable news for more: the hoards of a button, I am reminded of the time I fell fact that our close neighbours in Toronto individuals lined up, often overnight, to off that aforementioned horse. and Peel are currently under lockdown. (Re: Auroran founder, 76, died Sunday. November 26) get a few deals on things that, by and During one lunchbreak I went out to With limited opportunities on home large, they didn’t really need. grab something at a Canadian-owned big turf to take part in the ritual, it was, Wonderful tribute to Ron in The Stories of people camping out box store. of course, inevitable that commercial Auroran this week. for hours upon hours to get 30 per The specifics of what I was out to get tourism to places like York Region and A man who made such an impact on cent off a big screen TV to replace a are now forgotten, but, considering the South Simcoe would be rife – as could our Town. perfectly serviceable model at home hour, I suspect it was something from the a potential expansion of the very issues He will be truly missed. made me chuckle. Snippets of couples hot counter. that caused a second lockdown in the first strategizing ahead of the doors opening, I didn’t come out the door with a place. Brian and Dianne Harrison container of meat and potatoes, or any Aurora planning to fan out throughout the There is a, of course, a renewed effort store in question to minimize their time kind of sandwich. Naturally, that would to shop local and support local – rightfully and maximize their haul, often made have been too logical. Nothing edible so – but although it is a boon to businesses me smile. was bought. What I did walk out of the in communities that are still open for it, I Tales of people getting trampled store with was an LCD TV of a not- am not sure customers coming up from in the quest for a discounted crockpot inconsiderable size – an appliance I did locked-down COVID hotspots to open never lifted the corners of my not even know I needed. their wallets or unload their gym bags is mouth, but there was some degree I was foiled. Some might even say I necessarily what anyone had in mind. @TheAuroranNews of satisfaction that this was a largely was hoisted by my own moral petard. Yet, that seems to be what is happening American phenomenon that was yet I humbly accept my own, personal and will continue as the holidays draw to be truly imported in any significant transgression today – but I’m still resolved ever-closer. way above the lower 48. to not let it happen to me again. Or, to With that in mind, it is now more THE AURORAN Those days, of course, are a thing of do my utmost to resist if future irresistible important than ever to not only support the past. deals come down the line. And I’m sure our local, homegrown businesses, but www.TheAuroran.com This phenomenon has, as we all they will. to do so in a safe manner; not only know, firmly taken root in our country, As we approached Black Friday this for ourselves, but for the business an unnecessary add-on to a holiday year, I couldn’t help but think we had owners and tireless employees who are we don’t even celebrate in November. already experienced a dry run or two To submit a letter to the editor, muddling through this difficult time, If that wasn’t enough, the exponential over the last several months. trying to stay afloat, and stay safe on please send your email to growth of online shopping in the The images of multitudes lining up for our economic frontlines. [email protected] last decade-and-a-half has rendered the essentials at the start of the pandemic Theirs is a difficult task all-round Black Friday, well, insufficient. Cyber and, instead, leaving with a decade’s and we must continue to be mindful of Deadline for submissions is Monday is now, for better or worse, the supply of toilet paper are still seared that as the hustle and bustle of seasonal Sunday at 1 p.m. cool new kid on the block. into our collective consciousness. As the shopping reaches a crescendo – and be Don’t get me wrong, I love a good numbers of new cases began to climb mindful of what might travel with us deal as much as the next guy, and again, and the hot deal of the day shifted when we look for deals further afield.

YEARS EDITOR GENERAL MANAGER PRODUCTION MANAGER CLASSIFIEDS EDITORIAL POLICY Brock Weir Zach Shoub Cynthia Proctor 905-727-3300 ex.102 Opinions expressed by columnists, contributors Aurora’s Community Newspaper [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] and letter writers are not necessarily those of The Auroran. Letters must include name and ADVERTISING TODAYS NEW HOMES PHOTOGRAPHY The Auroran Newspaper Company Ltd. ADVERTISING phone number, although number will not be Zach Shoub Zach Shoub Glenn Rodger 15213 Yonge Street, Suite 8, Aurora, L4G 1L8 Diane Buchanan published. Letters may be edited or refused. All [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Main number 905-727-3300 contents protected by copyright. Fax number 905-727-2620 ADVERTISING ADVERTISING MOTORING Doug Sherritt Rachael Magee Heather Erwin ADVERTISING POLICY Founder Publisher Emeritus [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Publisher is not liable for slight changes or Ron Wallace Rosemary Schumaker typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an We acknowledge the financial support advertisement. Disputes must be brought to the of the Government of Canada Subscriptions available within Canada and U.S. Funded by the To submit a letter to the editor, please send your email to [email protected] attention of the publisher prior to the following edition. Government email: [email protected] of Canada Deadline for submissions is Sunday at 1 p.m. THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Page 5

The Aurora Museum & Archives is celebrating… Sock Day (December 4)

As the temperature drops, our need for warm feet is ever-increasing. Nowadays, washing our synthetic thermal socks in a modern cold water Time Travellers machine is the norm for keeping our feet warm. But a century ago, our forebears contended with the hand-washing of their warm woolen winter Diary socks, which could shrink dramatically while drying. These wooden sock stretchers (997.10.2a,b) were the solution, with holes to speed up the drying A Holiday-Themed Saunter process. Slip on a warm pair and celebrate Sock Day with us! By Claudia Pica Intern, Aurora Museum & Archives Now that the winter season is essentially upon us, and true diehards have been COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan listening to Christmas songs the moment their Time is of the Essence Halloween Jack-O-Lanterns were moved from their porches to their composts, I find All hope for an end to lockdowns and Secretary calling the COVID-19 vaccine myself thinking about all of the things that the beginning of recovery are tied to a distribution “one of the biggest civilian make the winter and holiday season so special. COVID- 19 vaccine. Yet with respect to projects in history.” For my first time-traveling adventure, when, where and how that vaccine will be The UK intends to have completed I decided to make a few stops so I could rolled out, Canadians are left completely in vaccination of their most vulnerable experience Aurora during an array of winter the dark – and time is of the essence. and be ready to move to the rest of the and holiday events, beginning with early Every day more people are being population by end of January 2021. Their December of 1965. infected with COVID-19 and tragically plan will vaccinate 4-5 million people a I found myself at Dr. G.W. Williams more will lose their lives to the virus. Each MP’S REPORT week completing their entire population of Secondary School, on a chilly Saturday day the burden of financial hardship Leona Alleslev, MP 66 million by April 2021. The UK has also evening about to enjoy a production of the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, The becomes heavier as many are left without Aurora-Oak Ridges–Richmond Hill published their plan, including a schedule Tinderbox, which was being performed by jobs, and businesses face a greater risk of and priority groups so citizens knows when not and will not in the foreseeable future the Aurora Drama Workshop. bankruptcy. As hope diminishes the longer they can to expect to have access to the have the capacity to manufacture these Nothing says holiday season quite like the uncertainty persists and the stress of vaccine. vaccines. Even if Canada had the some local theatre, and apparently the this pandemic takes its toll; drug overdoses, In Canada, there is no national plan. suicides, domestic abuse, and mental capacity to manufacture, the contracts that audience of over 1,100 parents and children The appointment of MGen Fortin is a start agreed! When I walked into the auditorium health challenges drastically rise. Canada signed with the vaccine providers but it is late to need. The Prime Minister to take my seat, I was struck by how colourful The Liberal government has established doesn’t include the permission to do so. has said that most of Canada’s population and imaginative the sets and costumes were. contracts with access to enough vaccine Canada will receive very limited doses and shipments will be delayed until other could be vaccinated by end of September Everyone involved put on an excellent doses to meet Canada’s need. What they 2021, but without any information for the performance, and the children were especially have not done is outline who, when, what, countries including US, UK, Germany, ten months between December 2020 and delighted when the character of the Witch, as where and how the vaccine will get to Japan, and Australia have addressed the September 2021 it’s impossible to trust the played by Thelma Wrixon, was foiled in the Canadians. need of their own populations. accuracy of that statement. end. After successfully experiencing some Worse still they are attempting to The US initiated “Operation Warp The sense of urgency for the holiday magic, I decided to continue my downplay the severity that Canada’s lack Speed” over 6 months ago with a four-star development and public distribution of a journey and jump ahead five years, to early of a plan implies. As a former military logistics general in charge. The US has Canadian vaccine plan is not only to save December of 1970. logistician, I cannot overemphasize that contracted and reconfigured airplanes and It was a Wednesday evening, and I found lives, as Canada is also in a race to save the approval, prioritization, storage, trucks to distribute the vaccine. They have myself at the Aurora United Church Hall. the country’s future prosperity. We must transportation and security of the vaccine worked with state and local authorities to The Senior Citizen’s Friendship Circle was distribution is a highly complex and identify priorities, quantities, and timelines be able to fully reopen our economy at the holding their annual Christmas Dinner challenging task; a task that will require for delivery. They have armed escorts and same time as our commercial partners and and Program, which was attended by 145 comprehensive planning, organization security tracking and tracing applications competitors or we risk being left behind. people. What lovelier way to indulge in the and oversight and one that must not to be in place to protect shipments and prevent The saying goes “Time spent in planning holiday spirit, than by enjoying a turkey underestimated. vaccine counterfeits. The US will have is time saved.” While a COVID-19 dinner amongst friends, festive décor, and a Each of the proposed vaccines requires 50 million doses available to vaccinate vaccine may not yet be available, the value beautifully decorated tree? Not to mention two doses, separated by approximately 28 25 million people by January 2021 and of being ready when it is will be measured a very special guest in attendance; the mayor days. These vaccines require ultra-cold 30 million doses each month after that. in deaths prevented and livelihoods saved. himself, Dick Illingworth. A lively sing-along storage conditions and while Canada has Furthermore, the US has published their The government has had months to plan of carols topped off the evening, which gave procured deep freezers, many have yet to vaccine distribution plan so all Americans and prepare but instead they have failed this time traveler a healthy dose of the holiday be delivered as these are in high demand. can plan accordingly. to act leaving Canada woefully behind. warm and fuzzies. Despite an investment of over $56M The UK has also responded with Canada needs a comprehensive vaccine My last stop was a beautiful but brisk to develop the capability, Canada does foresight and rigour, with the UK’s Health distribution plan and we need it now! Saturday afternoon in mid-November of 1984. The Santa Claus Parade was making its way through the streets of Aurora, starting Should The Auroran have a Council report? by Sterling Drugs (south end of Yonge Street) and ending at the Aurora Community Before we get into today’s column, a would provide a brief overview or Centre. As I stood in the massive crowd few words about a special man. snapshot of the important resolutions that of what appeared to be at least 10,000, I was very saddened to learn of the came before Council the week before. watching and sipping a hot chocolate with mini marshmallows, I overheard someone passing on November 22 of Ron Wallace, The at-large representations section say that this year’s parade was the biggest the former publisher of this newspaper. would provide some background, colour one yet, boasting over 60 floats. A prize was and commentary about the depositions “Mr. Aurora”, as he was known, was announced for best commercial float, which made by member of the public the week very involved in all aspects of this Town’s went to the Royal Wood Shop of Aurora who activities. As others have written more before. did a very creative Santa’s Toy Shop theme. eloquently than I, he was everywhere. FRONT PORCH I would also like to see a weekly tally The colourful floats, the clowns, mascots, and Ron gave me my start writing this published of both the length of the marching bands all had the crowd in the most column back in 2005, for which I am PERSPECTIVE meetings and how many of the public joyous of spirits, but the best part, as always, eternally grateful. was in attendance. was the arrival of Jolly Old Saint Nick. The Stephen Somerville I fondly recall our discussions, debates A small Council notebook section, children’s excited reactions to seeing Santa and e-mail exchanges on various issues of editorial advice, stick to that.” containing a variety of tidbits, gossip might have been the best part of the entire the day that effected this Town. Just the same, below are some thoughts and the like; the reason being, well, it just parade – and this entire trip! He was intelligent, funny, passionate on the topic for your perusal. interests me. Once I returned to 2020, I reflected on and would not back down from what he Obviously, there are budgetary and I would also like to see a small chart our current, collective situation. With safety felt was right. space considerations at play. For example, that shows the title of the resolution and measures in effect, the winter and holiday Former Prime Minister Joe Clark had yours truly very much enjoys writing this how each of the councilors voted, and season will surely be different than what we are typically used to, but the spirit of the it right when he said that “Canada is a column, but if an expanded editorial page whether they abstained or not. holidays can still remain in our hearts. Let’s community of communities”. or section was developed, then maybe The last piece would be a section on the upcoming week at Council, which would all remember that the greatest gift we can And Ron was of, for, and in our columnist cutbacks would be necessary. provide a brief overview of important give to one another at this time is to stay safe community. One of the best aspects of this paper things due up before council the next and keep those around us safe by continuing He was a standard-bearer for our Town is that a lot of editorial space is reserved week. to wear masks and socially distance. With and his presence and actions helped to for reader feedback; this is one of the key As to my friend’s call for a weekly the cold weather setting in, a mask not only make it the wonderful place that it is. reasons for the success of the newspaper. editorial, I don’t really think it is necessary. helps protect us and others from the risk Ron will be missed. I have changed my mind on some issues I don’t believe the paper needs to set out of COVID-19, but it can also double as a A few weeks back, a friend of this as a result of various letters to the editor. its editorial slant on particular issues, protector from the crisp winter air biting at column suggested that The Auroran I worry about the personal health rather it needs to lay out some facts and our faces! should have an enhanced editorial on of certain individuals if I have not seen then let the reader decide. the issues of the day. He went on to tell a submission from them in some time. So, in the great Canadian way, I me that, “for people who do not attend The number and length of their missives grandly suggest a compromise. Have an THIS WEEK’S Council meetings, who do not have might have to be shortened with the editorial page that contains a couple of NEW POLL the time or inclination to be politically introduction of an editorial section. different items, but don’t take an editorial Will you make an extra involved, a balanced report and a voice So, for the sake of argument, cast position on the issues, and don’t support to express the perceived views of the aside any budgetary or space limitation any particular candidates. effort to shop local this voters…we need an editorial section every considerations. As I see it, the job of The Auroran is holiday season? week to outline the Town issues – after all Some things that this writer kindly to engage, inform, interest and hopefully Yes No Unsure the paper is named The Auroran”. suggests should be included on such a entertain its readers. It is your job - as www.theauroran.com I partly agree with my friend. page are a weekly Council resolutions citizens of our wonderful community - to PREVIOUS POLL I know that Brock Weir, the editor, is update, at-large representations, a Will you get a COVID-19 vaccine once able to do so? weigh the merits of the issues, make up probably saying to himself right about Council notebook section, a chart with your mind and then to act. now, “Somerville, you have enough voting records, and a piece on upcoming YES NO UNSURE trouble writing your column, so rather important council matters/resolutions. Stephen can be contacted at s 64% 32% 4% [email protected] RESULTS RESULTS TO DATE than rendering unneeded and unwelcome A weekly council resolutions update 2020 December 1, Page 6 THETHE AURORAN, AURORAN, Thursday, Thursday, December December 3, 3, 2020 2020 HOLIDAY SPECIAL – THE AURORAN Aurora Schomberg HOLIDAY SPECIAL – THE AURORAN THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Page Home hardware Home hardware Your Community Hardware Store

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Sophistication2 BUSINESS New look. Same great taste. FINANCE HOCKLEYBEER.CA & Chocolate & Company puts sweet spin on Shop Local BY BROCK WEIR EDITOR LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER Clayton Dixon has always had a sweet tooth – with a particular penchant for the sometimes creamy, sometimes dark,

DAMIR VRANCIC Clayton Dixon’s new Aurora store, Chocolate & Company, makes decadence in-house at Yonge and Brookland. LAW OFFICE Auroran photo by Brock Weir BUSINESS LAW, always satisfying confections that come Mr. Dixon, a resident of Whitchurch- from Belgium and France. Then come REAL ESTATE, out of traditional chocolateries. Stouffville recently opened Chocolate & the flourishes: pure hazelnut paste for the WILLS & ESTATES It was a love he balanced for many Company, a chocolate and gelato shop nutty confections, real raspberries, mango years with a career in finance, but, as he on Yonge Street and Brookland, which and more if you like your chocolate on the 905-841-6411 approached his 50th birthday, he decided operates on the simple philosophy of fruiter side of things, and hand-blended it was now or never to live his dream and “quality, decadence, all made on site.” milk and dark chocolates for the perfect Providing valued and trusted bring his sugary vision to the masses, “We wanted something better than flavour balance. legal advice since 1983 starting in Aurora. what we could find,” says Dixon. “After “I strive for something different, doing cooking classes in my early 20s, I that extra level of decadence,” he says, started playing around about 12 years noting that he and his daughter are often ago, taking what I thought I could do a bit engaged in a battle over milk and dark Contact me for an auto Enjoy the journey insurance quote today. more seriously. I started practicing, built a chocolate, with his daughter a big fan of I’ll take care of the rest. little hobby kitchen in the basement and the former and dad veering more towards went from there.” the dark side. “Now that I have opened From the basement, he decided to the retail market, I am bringing more he wanted to build something for the milk chocolate into my recipes, so my ground-up. daughter is happier!” But what? As we get closer and closer to the Richard Gong, Agent He knew what he had in mind: a holiday season, particularly during 905-727-6333 chocolate that was more than a chocolate; this challenging time, businesses and a chocolate that was a dessert unto itself. advocates are doubling down on their At first, he envisioned an industrial efforts to underscore the importance of kitchen to make his hand-made chocolate shopping local. 1920945CN which would then, in turn, be sold to Chocolate & Company is no exception restaurants and retail shops. as they offer an array of flavours to suit But, as he approached his milestone every taste, with boxes of as few as two birthday, he decided he wanted to treats to as many as 27. bring his dream confections directly to “There’s a very strong Support Local customers. base now because of COVID, but I think “Welcome to my midlife crisis,” he Support Local has been going on for quite joked, opening his door to The Auroran some time, just extra-focused right now,” on Friday morning. “I wanted to sell to says Dixon. “People have [asked me] restaurants, but it just didn’t fit with what about starting a business at a tough time, I wanted. I wanted a retail storefront but it is the whole Magic 8-Ball thing. I’m because it would give me much more not really reinventing the wheel here, but feedback from customers on what they I just figure the first six months are going really want. I take the approach almost to be tough anyway, and I am focused… like a two-bite brownie; two bites for a on the store. It was meant to be and I kept really luxurious dessert, something you being pulled in this direction. can have with coffee or a glass of wine. It “I want to take the level of quality RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is not a pastry, but pure chocolate.” as high as I can take it. That is very The ingredients, he says, are the best important to me.” of the best. Although he does not roast his cocoa beans himself, he sources his For more information, visit www. How much chocolate – the obvious starting point – chocolateandcompany.ca. are you paying for financial advice?

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RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. MUSIC TO SHOP BY – There was music in the air for shoppers at MR Menswear on Saturday as ® / ™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. © 2019 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. All rights reserved. 19_90409_H7L_005 musician Chris Rolko performed for patrons. He’s pictured here at the keyboard with storeowner Mike Rathke. Auroran photo by Glenn Rodger THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Page 9 Public health performs Black Friday business blitz

From page 1 and Protection Act. The latter can be we’re investigating,” said Dr. Karim as many as $25,000 for a corporation. Kurji, York Region’s Medical Officer “When it comes to people coming of Health, in his weekly update on to York Region from the lockdown Monday. zones, the Province generally advises Gift a loved one peace of mind The latest death comes as York them not to move from one zone to this holiday season. another. We in York Region have Region cracks down on gatherings Caring doesn’t need to be stressful; whether it’s for a as new cases of the virus continue to incidence rates that are similar to parent or respite care for a family member, we rise. those of Toronto’s, although Peel’s believe seniors can stay at home. We are Here To Help! incidence rates are higher. Therefore, In the lead-up to – and aftermath Book your FREE Home Safety Consult today of – Black Friday, York Region we have taken the position that whilst conducted a COVID-19 enforcement people are supposed to stay home and 905.251.2696 blitz, which resulted more than 1,000 only come out for essential shopping, www.heretohelphomecare.ca visits to businesses across York Region if they do come here we want to make to monitor compliance with public sure that everybody is kept safe. As a safety measures resulting from York result, over the weekend previously, being moved into Ontario’s Red we had issued a Section 22 order (“Control”) Zone. requiring malls and retail outlets to Throughout the weekend, officers ensure appropriate physical distancing from York’s COVID-19 task force and line management. By doing so, focused on malls, big box stores, we have strived to keep people safe. restaurants, fitness centres and other However, with the holiday shopping public spaces to ensure public health season being here, we urge you first measures were being followed. to stay home as much as possible, One Aurora business, Xclusive only to go out for essential trips, see Fades on Yonge Street near if you can actually get your shopping Wellington, faces charges under the done online from the local stores. If Reopening Ontario Act. you can’t and you have to visit one “Most businesses across York of the stores, please visit them at off- Region are adhering to COVID-19 peak hours and try and minimize the safety measures and protocols, time you would spend at the malls or however there is an increasing in stores and observe the directional number of complaints from the arrows in the stores as well as the public about overcrowding in malls, physical distancing requirement of big box and retail stores,” said the two metres or more.” Region. “Businesses failing to keep Chartwell Park Place is currently their customers and employees safe Aurora’s only open institutional by not adhering to the mandated outbreak of COVID-19. COVID-19 safety measures will be To date, 9 previous outbreaks are subject to fines. Repeat offenders now marked as resolved. could face temporary closure.” Five schools remain under Added Dr. Kurji: “York Regional surveillance for the virus: Aurora High Council had made the commitment School, which is being monitored of enforcement of the guidelines for two active cases, along with on York Region residents as well as Devins Drive Public School, ESC businesses. As a result, we have the Renaissance, St. Andrew’s College, COVID-19 enforcement task force and St. Maximilian Kolbe CHS with that has been very busy over the one reported case apiece. weekend having laid some 32 charges Schools under surveillance are following 867 inspections as well as those with laboratory-confirmed cases 1,151 compliance education activities. of COVID-19 among staff, students Fines can be laid even under the or visitors to the school where there is Reopening Ontario Safe Act or can presently no evidence of transmission be laid under the Health Promotion within the schools.

www.tholiver.com 905.727.4258 1924 - 95 Years Serving York Region - 2019

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ROO 15% OFF CM Quartz Counters | Vanity Cabinets | Tile Flooring & Backsplash CE EC LESLIE ST. N WALKER HARRY Hardwood, Vinyl & Cork Flooring | Sinks, Faucets and Range Hoods 1100 Gorham St., Unit #20 Newmarket Call 905-954-0967 416-479-0415 705-797-4853 Follow us: Call or email us today [email protected] Page 10 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Aurora’s Farmers’ Market became a template for GTA Market sees record numbers despite which runs each Saturday morning from at 15-minute increments. Once things were deemed safe enough to pandemic measures May through October, welcomed 13,493 “At the beginning, we were only allowed allow students in to volunteer and collect visitors to Town Park. This year, they logged 32 people in and we had 13 vendors. Once their community service hours, these BY BROCK WEIR a staggering 18,306. the Market Board started talking more markers started to get a bit crafty. EDITOR “At the beginning of each Market day, I and more to Public Health and Farmers’ “We started with 13 adult volunteers LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER would get my team of volunteers together – Markets Ontario, restrictions were lifted and because of the health risk at the beginning we had 32 volunteers that helped us over the they based it on our square footage of where of the season,” says Ms. Kroeplin. “We The Aurora Farmers’ Market had a course of 24 Market days – and say, ‘This customers would actually be.” weren’t comfortable having students there late start this spring due to uncertainty is probably going to be the last day that It turned out to be a winning system this until we started proving our safety measures surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, but we’re allowed to be running, so make it a year, and one other municipalities looked to were incredibly important. [In the end] we did they ever make up for lost time. As the good one,’” recalls Market Manager Anna when trying to get their own markets up off had 19 students come to get their hours an Market wound down on Hallowe’en, they Kroeplin. “Every week we had tally sheets the ground. they came from Aurora, Pickering, Sutton, were looking back on a season of firsts – and at the dedicated entrance (on Larmont “In March, there was a state of emergency and it was just crazy because there weren’t some impressive numbers. Street) and at Wells Street as well, and we and then in April they closed the schools and a lot of opportunities for these kids to earn Last year, the Aurora Farmers’ Market, would count every single person in and out businesses, but it was incredibly important heir hours. What I found interesting this year that the Government deemed Farmers’ is the majority of the time parents would Markets essential services,” says Ms. come with their child the first day they were Kroeplin. “That was able to help the Board on shift and I would make sure they had pre-plan and be ready. They got in touch my phone number and the parents felt safe with York Region Public Health, the Town leaving their kids there. In all, they earned a of Aurora and Farmers’ Markets Ontario to total of 939 hours.” get all of their approvals – and they did so Although the Aurora Farmers’ Market’s we could set up on May 23. We were only outdoor season has come to a close, there a couple of weeks out of our normal season will still be a few more chances to meet to start. I was so pleased that the Farmers’ market vendors in the lead-up to the holiday Market was deemed safe. We actually had season. so many people come and we had about On December 5 and 12, many Market 99 per cent of people wear masks. It was favourites will be on hand for the Town’s mandatory for vendors to wear their masks annual Christmas Market, which will be or face shields, but everybody wore masks held at Town Park for the first time this and felt so comfortable and safe there. year, a perfect opportunity to shop local as “What really surprised me and blew me the holiday season approaches. (See Page away is that other towns got in touch with 19) us and either their staff or their market “A lot of Towns didn’t support their managers came to the Market after the first markets, so they stayed closed or they three weeks because we had built some great did not open long,” says Cathy Williams, reputation that they wanted to model the Board Chair for the Aurora Farmers Market after them. The biggest one was the Market. “Aurora supported us, made sure City of Toronto.” things went well for us, gave us volunteers Having that “incredible exposure” to new from their staff, and they wanted us to customers really helped the Aurora Farmers’ open, which was just really good. When Market reach such impressive numbers, our numbers started going up and we had with each customer being respectful of lineups and the vendors were coming to us one another and exercising patience while to say they were sold out, I thought, ‘You waiting in line to get in. know what? This is going to work.’ Helping them to pass the time before “I would like to thank the Town for they could get in to buy their fresh fruits and being so supportive. I would like to thank veggies, baked goods and artisan crafts were the volunteers for being so wonderful and space markers drawn out on the pavement for helping out so much – and the Board in chalk to not only promote social distance of the Market for working so hard to get but put smiles on faces. it open, for Public Health being behind us, Volunteers drew smiley faces instead of and for the people of Aurora for coming simple circles more than two metres apart. out and supporting us.”

Virtual Open House Wednesday, January 13

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Learning For Life. Creating The Future. THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Page 11 Anti-Racism and Anti-Black Racism Task Force gets to work on priorities

From page 1 that] I hope we can work to kind of look at grew up with,” she shared. “I think my goal ensuring the diversity of its suppliers in all me.” policies and practices that are embedded in on this would be to really continue to sort aspects of the Town’s business.” He saw those assumptions manifest institutions and understand how they are of raise the awareness. I think the more Members also pointed out there should themselves in many ways, including designed in a way that is inherently biased people know, the less they become afraid of be a concerted effort to ensure Indigenous systemic, and it is that lived experience he and racist. [It] might not be intentional, something, with lack of knowledge and lack voices are also represented at the table after has brought to the table as a member of necessarily, but that is the way systems are of information there is huge fear. Bringing this integral group was not represented Aurora’s recently established Anti-Racism designed in this country and a lot of areas topics and displaying different cultures, I amongst the applicants who came forward, and Anti-Black Racism Task Force, which around the world.” think that will be a huge part of breaking as well as to clarify their mandate. convened for the first time last Wednesday “The more effective way of bringing about down any barriers.” “I see a distinction between anti-racism night. change is to increase the implementation of While the Task Force is just getting off and diversity and inclusion-related work,” “My goal [on the Task Force] is to make anti-racist actions as opposed to just raising the ground, several directions are being said El-Dassouki. “I think there is a little bit sure that people like me will be able to awareness of diversity and anti-racism and explored. In addition to Council’s recent of a distinction to me and I think it would just live in Aurora and surrounding areas all of those items.” efforts on workplace diversity within the be important for us as a group to have a without having any fear of persecution from Added Ms. Durant: “From a leadership municipal structure, Mr. Lewis suggested common understanding and identify kind of other people in the community that should perspective, our community knows how our more can be done to examine diversity common goals around those terminologies be protecting us,” he told the group. leaders feel about racism, about any form of “within the construct of Aurora itself… to guide our work going forward.” Mr. Hull, who was one of the co-organizers discrimination, anything that makes anyone of this spring’s Solidarity Walk following the feel less than. As long as we know where they death of George Floyd, outlined his goals stand, it is easier for us to know how to move near the start of the November 25 meeting forward.” where he and his fellow Task Force members A native of Markham, Mr. Lewis says began the process of hammering their goals he experienced systemic racism every day and priorities. as he watched his parents, teachers with the Although a list is still a work in progress, Toronto District School Board, “navigate their initial message was clear: action rather racist constructs within our community and than education is key to making a difference. the education system while trying to provide Aurora’s Anti-Racism and Anti-Black a high quality of life for me and my siblings.” Racism Task Force represents a cross- He moved to Aurora 17 years ago, section of the community. Chaired by choosing this community to raise his family Noor El-Dassouki, joining her and Mr. as it reminded him of “Markham of the Hull at the table are Tricia Wright, Phiona 1980s.” Durrant, Mark Lewis, Mae Khamissa and, “I was not disappointed,” he said. “Like representing Council, Councillor Harold any fast-growing municipality, I watched Kim, who brought the idea to Council Aurora’s growth drive more diversity among alongside Mayor Tom Mrakas. residents in our Town, which challenges the Like Mr. Hull, Ms. El-Dassouki grew up community to respond to growing racism, in Aurora. which has to be dealt with by both residents As a Muslim Arab woman, she told the and business owners. For me, the biggest Task Force she has experienced her “fair challenge as a father and a resident in Aurora share of racism and discrimination” over the is a little heartbreaking that my daughter is years, but she also recognizes “a lot of the still experiencing the same [type and level] privileges” in her life. of racism that I experienced when I was her “I acknowledge the fact I am not age so many years ago. It is time for us to the target of anti-Black racism or anti- make a positive impact and make Aurora a Indigenous racism and I think it is really great place for all of us to raise our families.” important to centre those experiences, Ms. Wright has lived in Aurora for 17 especially Black and Indigenous people, in years as well, having come to Canada in her experiencing racism because their lives are teens from a country where Black people are the ones who have been most affected and the majority. most at risk because of systemic racism,” she “If I did experience racism [in Canada], said. “I would like to see some real action I didn’t take it that way, it was more that and some actionable change, especially they didn’t like me because of something in the institutional racism of Aurora [in else because that isn’t necessarily what I

Retirement Sale! On Now 25% to 75% Off Decor, Giftware & Silks Storewide! Excludes Floral & Fresh Greens Monday thru Saturday 10am to 4pm 15210 Yonge St. Aurora 905-727-6441 carusoandcompany.ca Page 12 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020

WE DON’T BREW OUR BEER FOR THE AWARDS.

BUT HE DOES!

Our brewmaster, Andrew Kohnen, threw away a successful career in logistics to pursue his dream of reconnecting with the brewing roots of his family. This carried him to the UK’s prestigious Brewlab in Sunderland, England, where he procured the alchemy that would drive his signature brewing style.

He took what he could from there and ventured to Scotland, Cornwall, and ultimately to Krefeld, Germany, working in the same brewery that had belonged to his ancestors. He came home to Canada for Hockley. You could call it dumb, but we call it destiny.

Andrew Kohnen Brewmaster

HOCKLEYBEER.CA THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Page 13

SUPPORTING LOCAL CHARITIES --- The Pine Tree Potters’ annual Empty Bowls fundraiser for Welcoming Arms, an ecumenical organization providing meals and helping hands to Aurora residents in need, and Inn from the Cold, a Newmarket-based resource for homeless persons, might have looked different this year, but it was a rousing success. Due to the global pandemic, gone was the sit-down meal featuring an array of scratch-made soups from local chefs. This year, they changed operations to a bowl pickup featuring hundreds of ceramics made by guild members, with ticket-holders receiving coupons to participating restaurants. This year’s event raised more than $12,500 to be shared between the two groups. Auroran photo by Brock Weir

THE FUTURE OF YOUR LOCAL NEWS IS AT STAKE

This time it’s David versus TWO Goliaths

Google and Facebook, the global corporate giants, use their monopoly power to pocket up to 80%* of online advertising revenues.

These modern-day Goliaths also benefit from news content produced by Canadian journalists and publishers.

Reporting real news costs money. Local newspapers are entitled to fair compensation.

Governments in other countries are standing up to Google and Facebook.

It is time for Canada to level the digital playing field for local news.

Learn more at: levellingthedigitalplayingfield.ca

* Canadian Media Concentration Research Project, 2020 Page 1420 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Page 15

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CMCA Vol. 21 No. 8 905-727-3300 TheAuroran.com FREE Week of December 3, 2020 AUDITED Roger Thompson weighed his options and chose York9

Roger Thompson returned to York9 for the same reason he came back home from Sweden. Playing in front of his family is everything for the 28-year-old defender. Contributed photo to stay home, I want to get better and By Robert Belardi play for the team closest to where I grew up. If I can help younger players Roger Thompson has signed a get better in the process, I’ll happily Fruitcake multi-year extension with the Nine be a part of that.” Stripes, a decision he said was family- York9 conceded only seven goals in FUNDRAISER The Optimist Club of Aurora has been supporting programs for based. the Island Games; the least amount the youth of Aurora for 35 years, including healthy snacks “There were a lot of things to look of goals conceded by any club in the for elementary schools, high school bursaries, contributing to at when it comes to my family and tournament. Although the club didn’t music and theatre programs and so much more. financially,” Thompson said. “The advance, Y9 were built extremely For the next 6 weeks we will be selling a variety of Fruitcakes - light and best decision was to stay here long well from the back. At one point, dark with nuts and light without nuts. The fruitcakes are $25.00 each. term and be here with my family. Thompson led the league in attempted We are pleased to be offering these fruitcakes for sale at our retail partners: Also, I did leave Sweden to come back passes. It’s a style of play he loves and in front of my family for my dad and he will continue to push the ball up Kitchen Accents Barron's Warehouse, my friends to be able to come and the pitch. Aurora Shopping Centre, Yonge Street 40 Engelhard Drive, Aurora watch me play. I missed that being in In a defining offseason for the club, (Corner of Yonge St and Murray Dr.) Europe.” Y9 has seen the likes of marquee Please stop in and visit these locations and pick up your fruitcake The Canadian-Jamaican players such as Manny Aparicio, before they all go! This ad sponsored by international spent a few years in Joseph Di Chiara, Morey Doner and Sweden playing for Trelleborgs FF Matthew Arnone leave the club as and Ljungskile SK before securing well as Luca Gasparotto retire. a contract with York9 FC for the Thompson doesn’t want to focus on Canadian Premier League inaugural what the club has lost but rather what season. the club has gained. “My last two years there, I became “It’s not so much to think about one of the key guys on the team. what we’ve lost but try to work with You learn a lot there as well and take what we have and see what these guys responsibility for certain things. I think can do when they come in.” it helped me grow a lot and become a York9 FC has been particularly busy better player in the process.” in the transfer market this offseason, The 28-year-old missed the entirety acquiring U18 Canadian midfielder of the 2019 Canadian Premier Felix N’sa, defender Chrisnovic N’sa, League campaign due to injury and goalkeeper Niko Giantsopoulos, www.thefreewebsiteguys.com/free-site the most important factor heading midfielder Cedric Toussaint and into this past summer’s Island Games Brazilian winger William Wallace to was remaining fit. the roster. Moving into the project for next He has seen improvements in the season, Thompson says he is excited Canadian Premier League since its to be under the tutelage of Jimmy inaugural season and looks forward Brennan and Paul Stalteri as well as to seeing this league continue to grow the “young project” from Managing competitively. Pacific FC and HFX Consultant Angus McNab. Wanderers have improved and this “He (McNab) wanted to rebuild the league is moving in a direction that club and go young and help the young will hopefully knock off Cavalry FC boys to get better. I feel like I’m at a and Forge FC off the podium. point in my career where a project “As the years go on, the quality is likeAuroran that Sports entices Page Baseme. Bar You 2018.qxp_Layout know I want 1 2020-03-02 going to4:20 get PM better Page 1 and better.”

Caring for Our Community

newroads.ca Page 16 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Maradona leaves behind a legacy that changed football lasted two years. But his move to heading back home to Argentina had passed away, it was something By Robert Belardi Napoli in 1984 saw 75,000 people where he would spend the rest of his that was anything but ordinary. attend the Stadio San Paolo for his club career. Argentina decreed three days of I’m too young to remember Diego introduction. This is where he would And, in the 1994 World Cup, mourning. Thousands of people Armando Maradona. What I do cement his legacy as one of the great he was removed from his final went to see his casket in the remember is my mother, complaining footballers of our time. international tournament because Presidential Palace in Buenos Aires. about him and how he knocked Italy In the 1986 World Cup, all of a positive drug test as well. Napoli, who had already retired his out of the 1990 World Cup. Argentina had brought to the He would move on to coach. He number 10, announced they will For every Italian, Maradona was tournament was a star-studded loved the game. In 2010, he managed rename their stadium in his honour. a villain or he was their hero. For footballer, a bag of soccer balls Argentina only to be eliminated by Players such as Cristiano Ronaldo the city of Naples, he is the greatest and a decent forward. And the 5’5 Germany 4-0. He went on to manage and Messi sent their condolences. player to have ever played for their magician simply made it work. When other clubs worldwide, teaching and Even Pele, who Maradona had club and he was also one to remove you think of this tournament, more preaching the beautiful game. rivalled for the greatest of all time all righteous judgment. often than not, all you think about But, despite his personal in their era, tweeted a heartfelt In the semi-finals of the 1990 are two goals in the quarter finals challenges, it would be prudent to goodbye. World Cup, Italy took on Argentina against England. look at just how much of an effect he “I lost a great friend and the world in Naples. The first is the goal he titled “The had on his country and the globe. If it lost a legend. One day, I hope we Maradona simply convinced the Hand of God.” Maradona met Peter ever were a country to view a man as will play soccer together in the sky,” Neapolitan faithful to cheer for Shilton in the area and hoofed the a living God, it would be Argentina, the 80-year-old tweeted. Argentina. And that they did. ball over with his fist into the back and it would be Maradona. He will go down as one of the What was supposed to be a home of the net. And four minutes after He continued what the nation greatest in Argentina’s folklore both match for the Italians became this controversial goal, Maradona started. In fact, he made Argentina a as a player and as a person. something more. Maradona and would score a goal dubbed the goal lot better with his influence. Players Even for people such as myself Argentina knocked Italy out and of the century. He ripped apart the growing up wanted his speed, his who never saw him play, it is advanced to the finals. In its second English defence, as he as his curly tantalizing footwork and his ability conventional knowledge to know consecutive World Cup finals locks danced and weaved through to coerce defenders to simply go the what he accomplished. appearance, Argentina would go on four defenders. He dummied even wrong way. Once he left the game, Leagues around the globe have to lose to Germany 1-0. Shilton himself before putting the the nation saw some of the greatest honoured him in their matches. Boca Going back to the 1970s before the ball into the back of the net along attacking talents emerge into the Juniors even honoured his daughter, talisman announced himself to the with the “ta-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta, gooool!” game from his home land. Dalma, at a home match in Buenos world, Argentina was going through from iconic commentator Victor Gabriel Batistuta, Hernan Aires this past weekend, bringing football reform. The country was Hugo Morales. Crespo, Juan Roman Riquelme, Maradona’s daughter to tears. set to host the World Cup in 1978 He would lead Argentina to Carlos Tevez, Sergio Kun Aguero, Messi honoured Maradona with and they hadn’t won the illustrious victory in the tournament, defeating Gonzalo Higuain, Angel Di Maria a black replica of his Newell’s trophy to date. Luis Cesar Menotti the Germans 3-2 in the finals. He and Lautaro Martinez are some of Old Boys jersey; a team in Messi’s became the coach and actually left scored five goals and five assists and, the forwards and midfielders that hometown Rosario where Maradona Maradona off the squad because he a year later, led Napoli to their first have made their mark in the game. briefly played. felt he was too young. ever Italian league title. Then, of course, there is the one Lorenzo Insigne scored a free kick Mario Kempes was their leading He won five trophies with Napoli who he pegged as his predecessor: to open the scoring in Napoli’s 4-0 striker and with a new style of playing including two league titles, a UEFA Lionel Messi. rout of Roma this past weekend the game, these two galvanized the cup and a Coppa Italia. Still to this Sadly, Messi could not repeat what and the Neapolitan born forward country to their first World Cup title. day, those are the only two league Maradona had done. Argentina had honoured Maradona with a shirt Maradona continued with titles Napoli has to their name. lost to, you guessed it, Germany with his name on it. The stadium did Argentinos Juniors as he celebrated Yet, Maradona was subject to off in the 2014 World Cup final 1-0 their part too with a photo on the with his nation before moving to one field troubles. He struggled with and the trophy alluded even Messi screen and a banner in the stands. of the country’s biggest clubs, Boca cocaine use and missed practices due himself. The rest of 2020 won’t be the Juniors, in 1981. to stress. His 15-month ban due to But when you saw what you saw same for the global game with the He moved to Barcelona a year later illicit drug use earned him a ticket this past week and felt what you felt loss of this icon. It won’t stop either. and his tenure with the Blaugrana out of Naples and to Spain before when it was announced Maradona Never. THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Page 17 Regional Council says no How do ou want Y to a public vote for Chair to be emembered? Each one of us is uniqueR with our own story to tell. At Thompson Funeral Home we understand this BY BROCK WEIR the total number of electors in the local and that’s why you can rely on us to capture a EDITOR municipalities that have passed resolutions person’s essence with a service that’s both a fi tting LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER consenting to the bylaw form a majority refl ection and a memorable tribute. Take the emotional of all the electors in York Region.” and fi nancial stress from your family, and guarantee todays costs with affordable monthly payment options. Aurora Council previously voiced its York Region residents will not get to support of electing the Regional Chair in 50 I P S, A vote for who leads Regional Council in the HOMPSO both 2016 and 2018. Funeral Home 9055 next municipal election. T N Had any change been in the air at the Regional Council, on a vote of 14 – 6, rejected a motion tabled this past February Region, a decision would have needed which would have seen the Regional to be confirmed by December 21, 2021 Chair, a position currently occupied by in order for it to be part of the 2022 former Whitchurch-Stouffville mayor Municipal Election. CROSSWORD Wayne Emmerson, directly elected by Since its establishment in 1970, the residents. Regional Chair was been appointed Instead, the position will continue to be in different ways. In the beginning, the filled through a vote around the Regional Province of Ontario appointed the Chair Council table, around which Mayor Tom for two two-year terms. This method Mrakas is Aurora’s sole representative. changed at the inaugural meeting of Mayor Mrakas was joined by Regional Council where the Chair was Newmarket Mayor John Taylor in voting elected by members around the table. in favour of change, alongside Regional “Four of the six Chairs of York Region Councillors Don Hamilton (Markham), were members of a lower-tier council at Jim Jones (Markham), Joe Li (Markham), the time of their appointment,” noted Mr. and Joe DiPaola (Richmond Hill). Macgregor. “The other two Chairs had The question, as posed at Aurora recently completed terms on the council Council last week, is now what? of a lower-tier municipality.” York Region has a long history of “Council had the authority to determine considering how the Chair should be whether or not the appointed Chair must elected. also hold office on a local municipal The most recent series of proposed Council. Through inherited provisions changes stemmed from a Private from the long ago repealed Regional Member’s Bill brought forward at Queen’s Municipality of York Act, it has been the Park in 2016 from Newmarket-Aurora’s practice in York Region for the appointed then-MPP Chris Ballard which, following Chair to resign their seat at the local level. its passage, would have mandated a direct However, Council can enact a requirement election for York Region. for the Chair to retain their local office. This directive, however, was struck This change can be implemented without down by the incumbent Provincial a ‘triple majority.’” government in 2018, leaving Regional As Aurora Council previously signalled Council to decide its own path forward. its support for electing the Regional chair, “Regional Council can, after holding the matter was raised at last week’s meeting. at least one public meeting, pass a “Which way do you think I voted?” bylaw to change the manner of electing asked Mayor Tom Mrakas when pressed the Regional Chair to a Region-wide by Councillor Michael Thompson election,” said Bruce Macgregor, CAO whether he voted the same way as he did of the Region of York, in a memo to when the matter was last up for debate at members when they last looked at this Town Hall. “I believe the Regional Chair matter in February. “Before the bylaw should be an elected position. I voted in comes into effect it must receive a ‘triple favour of having it become an elected majority’ which occurs when: the bylaw position. It is unfortunate it didn’t happen receives the support of the majority of that way. votes on Regional Council; a majority of “We’ll see if the Province decides to put the councils of all local municipalities pass it in place for the next election on their resolutions consenting to the bylaw; and own.”

Getting Things Done Mayor Tom Mrakas Who speaks for us? There is a need group to meet regularly to discuss to address what I believe is an urgent issues relevant to our unique context need for our local communities. and afford us the opportunity to speak Ensuring effective representation on behalf of our own municipalities. of the smaller urban and rural This proposal has been well received municipalities by the GTHA Mayors by my colleagues and I look forward and Chairs can be challenging; and to working with them to move this the issues facing our communities may initiative forward for the betterment not always be adequately reflected in and well being of each of our the discussions that take place in the communities. GTHA Mayor’s meetings. That’s all for this week. As always, if The response to the pandemic has you would like to get into contact with made it abundantly clear that what me please feel free to do so anytime works for large urban centres may by phone 905-727-3123 ext. 4746 or not necessarily work for our local by email [email protected] and if communities. you would like to sign up for more In order to foster the necessary newsletters and Council updates, discussion and collaboration among please let me know and I will add you our local communities, I have proposed to the growing list of Aurorans that are a new “Small Urban GTHA Mayors” staying informed.

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• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL 905-727-3210 ga Page 18 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Santa stays put “Under the Stars” for Parade

It was a magical evening as the Aurora Family Leisure Complex hosted its first-ever stationary Santa Under the Stars parade. More than 500 cars registered to pass by the parade, which was arranged over two tiers in the AFLC parking lot. Participants included local theatrical and dance companies, like Marquee Theatrical Productions, service organizations like the Optimist Club of Aurora, the Aurora Chamber of Commerce and the Aurora Sports Hall of Fame, Mayor Tom Mrakas and Council members, and MPP Michael Parsa.

Auroran photos by Glenn Rodger THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Page 19 Aurorans come together for Holiday magic at Town a Christmas parade to remember Park as Aurora hosts BY BROCK WEIR Mukhlis of Aurora Early Learning EDITOR LOCAL JOURNALISM Centre, whose youngsters put on their INITIATIVE REPORTER creative caps to put together their own Christmas Market spin on the Grinch. BY BROCK WEIR online for a full seven days. Not content to let the global pandemic “Our children did everything – they EDITOR get in the way of safe and festive fun, the boxes, they painted them, they did a LOCAL JOURNALISM “I have to say our online components INITIATIVE REPORTER more than 500 carloads of Aurora theme of something they are very fond are pretty cool,” says Ms. Ware. “One of the event plans was to house the activities residents descended upon the Aurora at the Centre, and that is the Grinch and No matter how you look at it, Christmas in the park. Those activities we have put Family Leisure Complex on Saturday Whoville,” said Ms. Muklis. “They put 2020 is not going to be one you will soon online and the park activities are going to be night for a Santa Under the Stars parade everything together. Unfortunately, they forget. showcasing the vendors that we have, which that was an Aurora first. can’t be a part of it today, but they will But, as the holidays get ever-closer, I have got to say are such high quality this Rather than travelling down Yonge be joining us in waving hello to us. This is Aurora is looking to sprinkle a little extra year. Some of our virtual programming, we Street to greet the young and the young something we are very proud of because magic with the annual Aurora’s Christmas have Mrs. Claus doing some baking demos at heart, in what has become his storied the children took charge. It is something Market – re-imagined to reflect our new so kids can learn how to make Santa’s local tradition, Santa Claus parked his very authentic and it came from their reality. favourite cookies. We actually have a D-I-Y sleigh at the Complex (AFLC) and invited heads.” This year’s free Christmas Market, which festive gnome that you can make for your revellers to come to him in the Town’s Creative muscles were also being will be held at Town Park for the first time, own front porch. We have a full kit prepared first “stationary” Christmas parade. flexed by members of the Dynamic will be spread over six nights, featuring with greenery and everything of that nature, More than 20 community groups and Dance Company, who have participated dozens of vendors, artisans and activities as well as a step by step guide for making local leaders decorated floats and found in the last three parades. In the previous both in-person and virtually. it. We’re even going to have a workshop on their place alongside Santa as vehicles two years, they secured honours for the Festive vendors, artisans and chefs from how to make the most of this holiday season came in from Industrial Parkway North Best Decorated Float, but the stationary across York Region will showcase holiday and still make it a memorable one. This is and St. John’s Sideroad to do a one-way aspect of the parade promoted some décor, toys, jewellery and clothes, art, baked circuit around the AFLC’s tiered parking crafty thinking. goods and more during this physically- in addition to online children’s games and lot to pass dazzling displays of holiday “Doing it this year was definitely distant experience, open to no more than 25 activities. cheer. different because we had to think about Market-goers in any one time slot between “Whether they come in-person or take For Sheryl Thomas of Marquee the fact it is not a moving object because 5 – 9.30 p.m. part online, we want people to leave with a Theatrical Productions, whose group is the cars are coming and we only had to “The planning for the Market has re-set of their personal energy and a re-set represented in the parade year in and decorate the front,” said Natalie Silia. taken on many different layouts, as well as in their ability to look for the blessings that year out, the present challenge presented “Normally we have our entire studio locations,” says Shelley Ware, Special Events are still around us. Obviously, the holidays a new opportunity. Rather than having here dancing with us, but unfortunately Coordinator for the Town of Aurora. are going to look very different, but that a few seconds in front of the thousands we can’t so we’re Instagramming to show “Due to the ongoing changes within our just means we have to look at the holidays that normally line Yonge Street, budding everybody. circumstances, which are beyond our differently because there are still ways of theatre artists had something of a “We love being a part of the control, the Market has been scaled down making them special and memorable captive audience and used it to their best community, we love our dancers having from what the original version was. The – mind you, no one is going to forget the advantage. that community feel and feeling like they objective of the Market, for those who are Christmas of 2020. “This has been 100 per cent positive,” are giving back with the holiday spirit. able to register and attend, is to be able to “While they walk through the Market, said Ms. Thomas at the start of the Especially this year in all years, I feel we provide an experience that enables people they get to take a time out of worry or parade. “The only disadvantage is we definitely need the holiday spirit.” to get lost in the magic of the environment whatever they’re focusing with and be able had too many volunteers and we had to Also participating in the parade were and just take 45 minutes to forget what to literally feel what those lights give them cut back. How often does that happen? Mayor Tom Mrakas and members of we’re dealing with on the bigger picture and and the atmosphere. Just that Hallmark We had such a great response from Council and, representing the Province, to actually feel the spirit of the season.” feeling that Aurora’s small-town charm people who are just dying to be part of Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill Imparting that spirit of the season will can deliver, especially at an event like this. something for the community.” MPP Michael Parsa, who donned a be a number of holiday-themed huts which Whether it is virtual or in person, is really Volunteers came not just from theatre “Shop Local” mask to drive home an will house each vendor, with thousands of supporting our local small businesses and schools, but local companies as well who issue close to the hearts of so many Christmas lights strung from hut to hut the entrepreneurs [and] this is a time for stepped up to help them execute their local businesses struggling due to the across the pathway bisecting Town Park, them to shine.” vision, including Priestly Demolition pandemic. which will make for an impressive sight. who donated the flatbed for their float “People need this, we all need it,” said Organizers are aiming to have 40 For more information on the Aurora – transformed into a capsule stage Mr. Parsa of having the parade continue different in-person vendors throughout Christmas Market, which runs from production of How The Grinch Stole in the community. “It is nice to get out the course of the multi-evening Market, Friday, December 4 – Sunday, December Christmas. and see people again – it is nice to see with new vendors each Market day. In 6, from 5 – 9.30 p.m., and again from “Anything is possible,” said Ms. people again! This has been a tough addition to the complement of in-person Friday, December 11 to Sunday, December Thomas. “We’re going to come through year for all our small businesses. Please, vendors, a total of 70 vendors will also be 13 at the same time, visit aurora.ca/ this COVID thing and nothing can really as much as you can, get out there and participating in the virtual market, which Christmasmarket. There, you can register get you down. There’s always a way to support them. We hope everyone does will be organized by product and service. for your preferred time slots and learn more get through it.” that [after the parade] and throughout Each in-person market will offer 12 or 13 about how to access the online market and This was a sentiment shared by Amal the holidays as well.” vendors at a time, but all 70 vendors will be roster of activities.

Calling all cookie lovers: cherished recipes could be shared with community BY BROCK WEIR what Aurora’s baking. your own home, help us share your instructions, a few sentences about EDITOR LOCAL JOURNALISM The Town has put out a call for favourite holiday baking tradition why the recipe is meaningful to INITIATIVE REPORTER cookie recipes “close to your heart” with the Aurora community. you and an optional photo of your ahead of the holiday season and the Participate in this free initiative by creation. Once submissions are Have you already started your compilation of a digital Holiday submitting your favourite holiday collected, all submitted recipes holiday baking? Cookie Book that brings together cookie recipe to be featured in will be put together in one easy to Have your favourite go-to holiday the best of what our community Aurora’s Holiday Cookie Book follow cookbook you can keep with cookie recipe at the ready? has to offer. posted on the Town’s website. you…for years to come.” Think your favourite snowballs “The holiday season is “[Through] December 13, can go toe to toe with another approaching and it is time to dust residents can visit aurora.ca/ For more information, visit the family’s gingerbread person? off your holiday cookbooks and cookiebook to submit their link above, or call Franco De Marco, There’s only one way to find out. baking apron!” says the Town. favourite family recipe, including Aurora’s Recreation Supervisor, Submit your recipe online and see “From the safety and comfort of an ingredients list, step-by-step at 905-727-3123 x3526.

This Employment Ontario service is This Employment Ontario service is funded in part by the Government of funded in part by the Government of RNC Employment Services Canada and the Government of Ontario RNC Employment Services Canada and the Government of Ontario 905-727-3777 A urora 222 Wellington Street East l [email protected] l 905-727-3777 A urora 222 Wellington Street East l [email protected] l

COVID-19 SERVICE DELIVERY Job Matching, We are here to support Canada - Ontario your hiring needs! RNC is Placement delivering services and Job Grant and Financial programs remotely. Financial support may be available for eligible businesses to purchase short-term training Incentives for Employers Eligible employers may receive up to $6000 for new hires for existing employees and new hires. and up to $8000 for apprenticeshipsto offset associated Email [email protected] costs of training new employees. Applicable for permanent Call 905-727-3777 press 0 positions with a minimum of 20 hours per week. Funding provided by the Government of Canada through the Canada www.RNCemploymentservices.ca Job Grant Programs delivered by the Government of Ontario Participants cannot be in school full time.

The views expressed in the publication are the views of the Service Provider and do not necessarily reflect Or Employment Ontario contact those of the Province. The Government of Ontario and its agencies are in no way bound by the recommendations contained in this document 1-800-387-5656 or TTY 1-866-533-6339 Email [email protected] Call 905-727-3777 press 0 The views expressed in the publication are the views of the Service Provider and do not necessarily COVID-19 SERVICE DELIVERY - We are here to support your training www.RNCemploymentservices.ca reflect those of the Province. The Government of Ontario and its agencies are in no way bound by needs! RNC is delivering services and programs remotely. the recommendations contained in this document Page 20 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 One-woman parade is more than a “Drop in the Bucket” for charity donation!” said Sheardown. By Kinjal Dagli Shah The long-time Aurora resident also added a global dimension to the run this year. Carol Sheardown pours her heart and soul into “It occurred to me that because it is virtual, this everything she does, including her recent costume may be the only chance for anyone in the world to parade to raise funds for her Ghana-based charity, participate in the Toronto marathon, so I reached Dekpor School Development Organisation (DSDO). out to a few supporters who I thought may just be As the Aurora-based founder of the charity— willing to help to make it a global affair. Our team the other founder, Linda Chow Kordze, moved now includes three of us in Ontario, a family in to Ghana full-time—Sheardown’s A Drop In the British Columbia, one in Michigan, one in Colorado, Bucket costume has deep meaning, especially for the and one of my former students who currently lives children in Ghana who have to walk five kilometres in Australia. My co-director, Linda, even had the several times a day just to fetch water. kids at the school in Dekpor do the run and I shared When the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront the video on our Facebook page,” she added. Marathon became a virtual event in light of the Sheardown jokingly addresses herself as the COVID-19 pandemic, Sheardown, who is the CEEC (Chief Executive of Everything Canada) DSDO administrator for the marathon, decided to of DSDO, which she admits is a whimsical, non- make lemonade out of the lemons tossed their way. existent but descriptive title. “I participate in the marathon’s Charity “I am in contact with Linda every day but I run the Challenge to raise funds and awareness for DSDO. Canada side of things on my own. What I do here The money raised from this event, 100 per cent of completely determines what can be accomplished it, goes to replenish our emergency medical fund there,” said the teacher, whose team has surpassed and to finance our food programme. For the past their $23,000 goal by raising $26,737.24. The funds eight years, I’ve worn a costume that is somehow help DSDO provide two meals to children in their related to our work in rural Ghana.” school every day. Sheardown wanted to continue to uphold the “Kids are often sent off to school for the 7 a.m. tradition of wearing a costume and draw attention start with either a handful of peanuts for the day to the cause. Quite fittingly, she chose World Food or nothing at all. Sadly, my co-director has seen Day and World Eradication of Poverty Day to walk kids pass out on far too many occasions. The first around Town in her costume for three hours. question she asks is, ‘When did you last eat?’ and “My one-woman parades have been fun. There the responses are often heartbreaking. The fact that have been plenty of wide-eyes, head-turns, laughs, we offer two nutritious meals every school day is honks, waves, and even those who have dropped precisely what encourages many students to attend their cash into the bucket. I hadn’t even made it classes.” out of my driveway the first day when a couple The funds raised also go towards their emergency who were out for a walk made the first in-person Continued on page 21 Contributed photo Aurora’sAurora’s At Your Service PFOR BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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EDITOR LOCAL JOURNALISM At the start of the pandemic, he had a trip to INITIATIVE REPORTER Europe planned which, of course, had to be cancelled. He’s tentatively re-booked a trip for the summer As a student at Dr. G.W. Williams Secondary ahead: a cruise to the evocative landscapes of Iceland. School, Andrew King struggled to keep up. Now that he’s been bitten by the writing bug, will Living with anxiety and wanting to be anywhere this be the subject of a third book from King? but in the classroom, he hit his stride when he Only time will tell, but, as he says, “A Visual Journey was able to get out of the sandy-coloured walls of to Alaska was a big accomplishment in my life. It would Dunning Avenue into the community through co-op be great to see someone who goes from a struggling placements. background to an accomplished writer.” He found “getting out into the real world” helped him “get through the rough points,” and now, into For more on the book, visit amazon.ca. the much wider world, he is staking a claim as a travel writer with a new book on the wonders of the far north. One-woman King recently published “A Visual Journey to Alaska”, a book that combines his first-hand parade is more observations from his journey to the 49th state, not to mention the stunning visuals he collected along than a “Drop in the the way. “During the pandemic, writing was something Bucket” for charity I wanted to try and see if it would stick,” King tells The Auroran. “I have done a lot of travelling From page 20 over the years and with travel being hit hard I just medical fund. Especially in a pandemic, the wanted to have something out there so people could already-vulnerable have little to rely on. Dekpor have something to look forward to when they can eventually get this virus all settled.” has one clinic that Sheardown and her co- King’s love affair with Alaska began quite by director helped open. It is run by three nurses chance. Aurora author Andrew King shines a light on the beauties of Alaska in his and they don’t have any COVID-19 test kits. One summer while helping his parents plan for new travel book. “It seems as though no one in the village of a family vacation, they wanted to visit a place that Contributed photo approximately 8,000 has contracted the virus, was new for everyone. Browsing cruise options, point of getting to the book. It was about sharing it with others but, who really knows? Malaria also presents they happened upon Alaska and, King says, he and helping people feel better about how things could be after with flu-like symptoms, and malaria is a constant was mesmerized by both the scenery and the way it this is over and have a whole new experience.” threat in Dekpor. The money we raise by made him feel. Since his first trip up north, King has explored many parts participating in the marathon goes toward this. “It made me feel calm, relaxed, and it is just a great of the world, including cruises throughout the Caribbean We know we have saved lives.” place to go and see,” he says. “I wanted to get that and trips overseas to locales as varied as Italy, Malta, Greece, For more information or to donate, please whole immersive experience of Alaska, including the Australia, New Zealand, and transatlantic cruises. So struck visit Dekpor School Development Organisation ice and seeing wildlife you don’t normally see here in was he by his cruises through the Caribbean, they will be on Facebook or at dekporschool.org/Dekpor_ Canada. I used my photography and my personal subject of his next book that is already in the works. School_Development_Organisation/Home. experiences to capture memories and it came to the As he works on his next book, King says he’s itching to get html.

YEARS

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Freelance Reporter Think you can sell? Come join a dynamic, fast paced, growing entrepreneurial for Local Community Newspaper company looking for young, enthusiastic sales representatives. Come join a dynamic, fast paced, growing entrepreneurial A rewarding, lucrative opportunity for the right candidate. company looking for an energetic Freelance Reporter with a passion for community news. Thank The ideal candidate will have a distinct willingness DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: to cover local community events and issues. • Tour groups of students through houses and apartments to rent them out for the annual rental campaign. You • Plan, Prepare and Execute Advertising and Marketing Material for the annual rental campaign. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Complete all necessary paperwork involved in lease signing and payment collection for newly rented units. • Freelance reporting work for weekly • Work with all current tenants in completing necessary paperwork for renewal units Carriers community newspapers and special projects • Will produce stories and bylines for the events they cover EXPECTATIONS: • Have a positive attitude • Will be paid on a freelance/contract basis per project/story • Willing to work hard and enjoy rewards in a team environment for • Generate story ideas and follow up on news tips • Willing to take chances and learn from your peers

• Take photographs DESIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE: • Work some evenings and weekends, as required • Sales Driven delivering • Work well in results based environment • Goal Oriented QUALIFICATIONS: • Great Personal Skills THE AURORAN • Diploma in journalism preferred • Some Sales Skills Preferred but would be willing to train the right candidate • Candidates should have experience working on • Marketing and/or Communication the editorial side of the newspaper industry education would be a great ﬁ t • Excellent writing, editing and photography skills during COMPENSATION: • Valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle Base + Commission • Reporting experience an asset • An interest in local issues is a necessity, these as the majority of the writing for this role will be local Let’s Talk. challenging EMAIL RESUME FOR CONSIDERATION: Let’s Talk. [email protected] times Interested and qualified candidates should forward their cover letter and resume to [email protected] Page 22 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020

15900 Bayview Avenue, Aurora, Ontario, L4G 7Y3 905-726-9532 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020 Page 23 Page 24 THE AURORAN, Thursday, December 3, 2020