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Aurora’s Community Newspaper Vol. 8 No. 7 905-727-3300 auroran.com FREE Week of December 4, 2007 Yo r k Aurora, King to be “flooded” by 600 needs Don’t panic. other soldiers will conduct a search Approximately 600 Army and rescue mission at Case Reserve soldiers from the Greater Woodlot and Sheppard's Bush. Toronto Area (GTA) will pour into The former hydro building will be the area this weekend to handle a the army headquarters while the room “national flood” in King Township former Victoria Street Library will and Aurora. be the Town offices and Operations York Region's population The crowd will arrive in the area Centre and the Community Centre has increased significantly over Friday, Dec. 7 and stay until will be a Warming Centre and the past 30 years and is Sunday, Dec. 9. Kitchen for survivors. expected to reach 1.2 million Routes affected by military traf- The public is invited to observe by 2016. fic will be Industrial Parkway and the activities of the soldiers as they And the regional building in the Wellington Street exit from carry out their duties and to ask Newmarket, which also serves Highway 404 leading into Aurora. questions. In and around Aurora's parks A number of army personnel the Town of Aurora, is too you may see soldiers conducting attended Tuesday’s council meet- small. patrols either in vehicles or on foot. ing with Lt. Col. Bruce McCullough As a result of the population Army engineers will also be set- making a presentation as to the increase, the requirement to ting up a high-tech water purifica- background of the training exercise. provide regional services con- tion system while other soldiers Major Fred Moore also made a tinues to increase with a result- conduct search and rescue mis- more detailed presentation of the ing increase in required staff The Aurora Christmas Dream event, held Friday night at Bistro sions, build dykes, or perform simi- exercise being held in Aurora and numbers. 171, raised more than $4,000 toward helping local families lar tasks. thanked the town staff and council This growth has placed have a happy Christmas this year. Behind the event, Sher St. Some soldiers will have for their cooperation and approval. extreme pressure on the region Kitts, right, put together the event with the help of (back row, weapons while they practise secu- The 32nd Canadian Brigade to provide suitable accommo- left to right) Perry Tucciarone, Fitness Clubs of Canada; rity tasks. Group is an Army Reserve forma- dation for staff, especially in Richard Allardyce, owner of Bistro 171, and Stephen Granger, But they promise not to hurt you. tion of some 2,300 part-time troops the Yonge Street Administrative To prevent vital utilities from based in local armouries from co-chairman of the event. In the front row are Susan Doyle being flooded soldiers will place downtown Toronto to Barrie and Centre which has reached a from Welcoming Arms and Jack Laurion, representing the sand bags in various areas, while Owen Sound. critical threshold. Aurora Rotary Club, one of the event’s founding sponsors. Property Services, with the According to Sher, donations are still coming in. assistance of Mayhew and Auroran photo by David Falconer Associates consultants, con- Carpenter House ducted a Space Needs Assessment Study of the BRIEFLY Administrative Centre. may have offices The goal of the study was to document the current state of Doors Open 2008 The Carpenter House, 69 additional permitted use with minor staff accommodation at the Based on the success of last year’s event, planning has already started for this year’s Wellington Street East, was built in reductions to the buffer strip on the Administrative Centre and to edition of Doons Open in Aurora. 1872 by William Atkinson, a carpen- west property line. develop a Master Plan for its Last summer, organizers welcomed more than 2,800 people to dozens of sites during ter and joiner who came to Aurora in The application was heard at a the day-long event. space needs for the next four 1856. public planning meeting with plan- years. That meant 1,300 more visits than 2006. Next summer, the event will be held Saturday, Aug. 16, and organizers are currently Soon it may become an office ning staff making a detailed explana- The Space Needs arranging for places to visit. building. tion of the application. Assessment has confirmed that Doors Open provides visitors the opportunity to visit establishments, some historic, that It was designated under the It was pointed out that the proper- the Administrative Centre, are not available for tour during regular hours. Ontario Heritage Act in 1985. ty was located within a Heritage which currently includes the Atkinson never lived in the Resource Area which permits limited York Regional Police headquar- Get lit Carpenter House as it was sold to commercial uses in residentially des- ters, has reached capacity for the Hillary family who later sold it to a ignated structures such as small Don’t forget the Town’s tree lighting ceremony Wednesday, Dec. 5, in front of the space accommodation. Town Hall. family friend and the house has had scale businesses or professional An additional 20,000 square The Salvation Army will kick off their annual Kettle Drive campaign at the event. a long history of owners ever since. offices. feet of corporate space is Santa Claus, of course, will be there, and you’ll get a free hot chocolate if you bring An application has been received Staff members advised they had required by December next a donation for the Aurora Food Pantry. to rezone the property to a site spe- no objections to the application sub- The event occurs between 6 and 8 p.m. with the official countdown for the tree lighting beginning at 6.45 p.m. cific Exception Zone to permit a busi- ject to the submission of a site plan. Please see page 17 ness or professional office as an Please see page 2
Brokerage LENARD LIND Aurora’s #1 Sales Producer 2006!* Call today for a free property evaluation!** 905-841-0000 • [email protected] www.lhlindrealty.com 15105 Yonge St., Suite 100, Aurora 1 (2 ⁄2 blocks south of Wellington Ontario’s ONLY... on the east side) * Based on IMS Statistics ISO 9001:2000 REGISTERED ** Some conditions may apply Residential Real Estate Company Broker of Record/Owner 2 - THE AURORAN, Week of December 4, 2007 COMING EVENTS
Continuing until April 15 from 2 a.m. to Tuesday of each month at 8 p.m. at singer Glori Gage, starting at 7.30 p.m. East, beginning at 6.30 p.m. For further 6 a.m. winter parking restrictions are in 15216 Yonge Street (south of Performance will be followed with sea- information, call 905-727-4531. effect on Aurora streets. Wellington). For more information, call sonal sweets and wassail bowl. Tickets SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23 **** 905-830-9205. are $15 each and must be purchased in Enjoy a “Quiet Christmas” at the A drop-in centre will operate every * * * * advance by calling 905-727-8991. Wesley United Church with music by Wednesday at the Community Bible Masons' Rising Sun Lodge meets the **** David Kyle and inspirational singing by Church, on Bathurst Street, just south of first Thursday of each month at The Aurora's York Chamber Ensemble, Sarah Kyle and Joe Likuski. The free Henderson. Operating from 8 a.m. to 1 Rising Sun Temple, 57 Mosley Street, at with the Trinity Festival Chorus, presents event begins at 4 p.m. p.m. it’s open to all parents, grandpar- 7.30 p.m. "Gifts for Noel," a choral concert at 7.30 TUESDAY DECEMBER 25 ents and caregivers. For more informa- * * * * p.m. The chamber orchestra, conducted Merry Christmas. tion, e-mail Judy Hoffmann at jhoff- Robertson Masonic Lodge meets the by Tony Browning, is performing at Trinity MONDAY, DECEMBER 31 [email protected]. third Saturday each month at 57 Mosley Anglican Church, 79 Victoria Street. The Aurora Seniors will celebrate New **** Street at 10.30 a.m. Coffee club at 9 Tickets, available at the door, cost $15; Year's Eve with a Dinner Dance at the Scottish Country Dancing is held a.m., lunch at noon. Call 905-727-3032 $10 for seniors and students. seniors’ centre from 6.30 p.m. to 1 a.m. every Friday morning at St. Andrew’s or 905-727-1080. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9 Ticket prices are $55 for members and Presbyterian Church beginning at 10.30 * * * * Amnesty International hosts its annu- $60 for non-members and are available a.m. No partners are needed and begin- Gamblers Anonymous, every Tuesday al Write-a-thon at Aurora Public Library, at the Centre. ners are welcome. night, Trinity Anglican Church, Victoria 15145 Yonge Street, from 2 to 4 p.m. TUESDAY JANUARY 1 **** Street, 7.30 p.m. Write cards of support to prisoners of Happy New Year. Meet at Martha's Table, now in its third * * * * conscience, or letters to governments re MONDAY, JANUARY 14 season. Every Thursday from 11.30 a.m. Euchre every Thursday night. Aurora human rights abuses. For more informa- Aurora Film Circuit presents “Once” a to 1.30 p.m., comfort food and a sense of Legion, 7.30 p.m. Call 905-727-9932. tion call 905-713-6713. 2007 Irish film which caused Steven community is available in the St. Also every third Sunday at 1 p.m. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11 Spielberg to comment, “A little movie Andrew's Presbyterian Church hall, * * * * Aurora Seniors will visit the Great called Once gave me enough inspiration Aurora. Any funds raised are directed to Canadian Federation of University Blue Heron Casino near Port Perry. to last the rest of the year.” Tickets are other community outreach projects. Women has monthly meetings at the Lunch is included. Price is $37 for mem- $10 and available at Aurora Public **** Aurora Legion with a variety of speakers bers and $40 for non-members. Library and R&R Revisited, 95 Edward Aurora Agricultural Society meets the and interest groups. Contact Beverley at SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16 Street. All screenings take place at the first Monday of every month from 6.30 to 905-727-2151. The public is invited to the annual Cineplex Aurora, with door prizes at 6:45 9 p.m. at the Aurora Community Centre. * * * * Berard Pears Chorale Christmas p.m. and film at 7 p.m. All proceeds ben- New members welcome. For more infor- The Aurora Seniors Evergreen Choir Favourite concert will be held at First efit out-of-budget programming at the mation, call 905-713-6773, e-mail at practice under the direction of Tom Baptist Church, 33 Wellington Street library. [email protected], or visit www.auro- Rainsford and Enid Maize every rafair.ca. Wednesday from 3.30 to 5 p.m. at the * * * * seniors’ centre. Aurora Rotary Club meets every WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5 Monday evening at 6.30 p.m. at Gabriel's Tree Lighting Ceremony from 6.30 to on Yonge Street. New members wel- 8.30 p.m. at the Town Hall with festivities, come. For further information, call 905- carol singing and tree decorating. 841-1352. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8 * * * * Aurora Historical Society invites you Independent Order of Odd Fellows to an evening of Christmas music with Lodge #148 meets the first and third piano recording artist Carol Gibson and Carpenter house converted?
From page 1 loss of trees with staff replying The application was Gary Templeton, repre- that all the trees proposed to approved in principle subject senting the applicant, agreed be removed had been to the resolution of outstand- with the staff report and point- assessed for the most part as ing issues and comments ed out parking was not an being in poor to fair condition. from the public. issue as more spaces had been provided than are 100% required under the bylaw and fencing and landscaping was proposed to protect neigh- Learn bouring properties and the requested variations were minor. about yourself Klaus Wehrenberg @scholarscanada.com expressed concern about the loss of trees to create a park- ing lot, even though many may
be in poor condition. POWER He was also concerned MENU A about dealing with applica-
HOME tions in isolation and there was Wii 1 andand a need to look to the future. He 2 enterenter to Wii toWin also questioned proposed sig- nage. Staff members explained Prizes that according to the official Go to scholarscanada.com, take the test and be entered to win one of plan, each property was to be these great prizes. Total prize value $2500 in Future Shop gift cards. considered on its merit and that no request had yet been received regarding signage. Templeton said it was not planned to place any signage on the house but use a small
*No purchase necessary. Contest closes at 11:59 PM EST on January 31, 2008. In order to win, entrant must correctly answer a lawn sign. mathematical skill-testing question. Odds of winning will depend on the number of eligible entries received. Full contest rules available at http://www.scholarscanada.com Councillors questioned the
Are your year end tax planning strategies in place? Now is the time to make all payments and donations that qualify for Act now tax breaks or sell investments with accrued losses to offset capital gains. Taking care of this before the end of the year to pay less tax! allows you to apply them to your 2007 tax return. Contact us today for your free copy of “Pay your share of taxes and not a penny more” offering a checklist of tax strategies to consider before the end of the year. Jennifer Christensen B.A., CFP, CDFA, TEP Executive Financial Consultant [email protected] Phone: 905-726-8236 ™Trademarks owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations. THE AURORAN, December 4, 2007 - 3
Aurora Shopping Centre merchants A & F Hair Elite *905-727-6212 Aurora Dry Cleaners *905-713-0095 FAMILY GIFT DRIVE Aurora Alterations Honoured *905-726-9242 Until Dec. 18th Aurora Dollars Members of the Aurora Rotary Club welcomed Discount *905-841-2497 Bring unwrapped gifts for all ages to: District Governor Lynda Ryder to its meeting last Aurora Salon week, and handed out a few awards along the way. Secrets In the top photo, former town councillor Dave *905-727-1044 Aurora Alterations Griffith, left, was honoured with the coveted Paul Bulk Barn *905-751-1822 Creative Colours Harris award. Making the presentation is District Beer Store Governor Ryder and Rotarian Barry McDonough, *905-727-4741 Omar’s Shoes right. In the photo at left, Rotarian Eric Smith CIBC Bank or accepts an award from Governor Ryder for serving *1-800-465- with the Aurora club for 57 years. Smith was one of 2422 Sparkle Pharmacy Aurora Rotary Club’s founding members. Chris' No Frills Auroran photos by Ron Wallace Clothing Outlet *905-841-7652 Creative Colours Seniors *905-727-0552 Day Break *905-726-3060 25-50% OFF finish first Ella’s Nails Selected Winter Coats * 905-726-2468 in line 5 Below Jeans & More dancing Schnitzels *905-841-7762 HURRY Fabulous Flicks our Video Senior line dancers *905-841-5768 IN from Aurora, Newmarket, specialty Family Shoe Richmond Hill and Repair Bradford, took first place *905-841-8922 FOR in the line dance competi- Henry's tion held recently at the Fish & Chips Jackie Horner Semi- *905-727-8001 BEST Annual Line Dance and Karen & Tina's Ballroom Week at the Flowers SELECTION Fallsview Best 5 Resort *905-727-9865 and Spa in the Catskill Kitchen Mountains in New York Accents State. *905-841-0885 5 BELOW JEANS & MORE 905-841-7762 Encouraged by instruc- 905-727-9561 Knit Or Knot 14800 Yonge St., Aurora (Beside OMAR’S Shoes) tors Jill Baker, Dianne *905-713-1818 Bishop, Bunny Burton and 14889 Yonge Street, Aurora Kodak Image Debby Wilcox, the www.graystonesrestaurant.ca Centre dancers performed a rou- *905-726-4243 tine to GI Jive by Elvis Legacy Happy Holidays Presley (choreographed Happy Holidays Jewellery by Dianne Bishop and (PEDVV\*UHHWLQJ &DUGV *905-841-3065 Gloria Kirchner). Not Just Cards More than 40 dancers $Q $XURUD 3XEOLVKHU Hallmark from wearing Canadian collars ³2IIHULQJ+RPHWRZQ6SHFLDOV´ *905-727-1547 AURORAAURORA and bow ties made by the Oakridge Newmarket Seniors’ Outfitters Meeting Place Craft *905-726-4063 Room, provided a sea of /&&)#% n #/20/2!4% '2%%4).' #!2$3 ALTERATIONS Omars Shoes ALTERATIONS red and white. 3HUVRQDOL]HG ZLWK 1DPH/RJR &DUGV WR 6HOHFW IURP *905-727-9391 All waved either • Custom Dresses Regency Canadian or American (PEDVV\ &DUGV VXSSRUWLQJ WKH ZRUN RI Variety Flags as part of the grand +$%,7$7 )25 +80$1,7< &$1$'$ *905-727-6691 & Wedding Dresses finale as they exited the Sparkle floor and made their way 3UH%R[HG FDUGV SE +)+& /RJR RQ WKH EDFN Pharmacy • Men & Women Suits up through the audience. ✁ LPDJHV SUH ±SULQWHG JUHHWLQJV WR VHOHFW IURP *905-727-2322 $XURUD 1HZPDUNHW DUWLVWV YLVWDV Staples/Business Depot • Expert Alterations Senior Duplicate /LPLWHG 4XDQWLWLHV $YDLODEOH *905-713-0367 The Source by and Repairs
Bridge results ✁ (0%$66< *5((7,1* &$5'6 Circuit City Monday, Nov. 26: N/S - *905-713-2783 • Uniforms Mary Oglanby and Joan ,QGXVWULDO3NZ\6RXWK8QLW Van De Ven Car Rotenberg, Irene Kubica and $XURUD2Q/*< Wash Dave Legallais; Barbara York Medical Wittmer and Anne White. 7HO±)D[ *905-713-0404 E/W - Ev Dickie and Audrey Robertson; Murray Sinclair FDUGV#HPEDVV\JUHHWLQJFDUGVFRP and Don Newman; Rose ZZZHPEDVV\JUHHWLQJFDUGVFRP White and Gloria Smith. 4 - THE AURORAN, Week of December 4, 2007
Poor Richard
Accomplishments few in number for Aurora Council
Comparisons are odious but often necessary. To make sure an important point gets across; Councils are elected to make decisions, And poor results often point to the boss! - Poor Richard's Scrapbook
Aurora Council has been in office for almost a year and has very little to show for it, except they passed the 2007 budget after about five months of haggling. This photo, taken from the out-of-print book “Riding the Radials”, shows a Metropolitan line car of the They also agreed to take over the renovations of the Toronto & York Radial Railway crossing the Grand Trunk Railway tracks “south of Aurora”. Well, it’s not Church Street School, but haven't decided which south of town anymore. This crossing was just north of Industrial Parkway South, east of Yonge Street. department will operate it. Part of the bridge structure has been saved and is visible next to Thompson’s Funeral Home. They agreed to sell the Leslie Street lands, but then according to an alleged leak from a closed door meet- ing refused to sell part of it for the Police headquarters. Letters to the Editor In spite of four to five hour council meetings, most of the other decisions were house-keeping items. Yet many were referred back to staff personnel for Impressive Aurora Council more information after third-degree questioning of staff reports, as if the staff couldn't be trusted, before some were finally adopted, while others are still outstanding, such as the Business Plan for Leisure Services, which disappoints me, reader says should have been fairly routine. Still outstanding are major issues, such as the To the editor, her experetise on complex ices unit on Leslie Street. I feel taxpayers have a right future of the Hydro building on Industrial Parkway technical issues such as the I read Poor Richard’s col- to know who in the 4-4 split South, Library Square, the future of the Community November marked the controversial hydro lines, her umn in The Auroran - he voted for and against the Gardens if the Jack Wood's property is sold, a final first anniversary of Aurora’s strong work ethic and her deserves a bouquet - which motion. decision on the proceeds from the sale of Aurora Hydro newly-elected council. approachability and respon- seems to suggest to me that The “leak” and the or the use of the money received from Whitwell After attending an all-can- siveness to constituents. with the police headquarters appointment of George Rust Development to help revitalize the downtown. didates’ meeting, taking copi- I had great expectations remaining in Newmarket D’Eye to investigate it at an There is still the long outstanding request for a ous notes, and reading all of change, co-operation and because of space availability, undisclosed cost are sec- Youth Centre to be decided and the more recent rec- available literature and The consensus. Aurora Council is now refus- ondary to this deliberate ommendation that a Youth Councillor be appointed. Auroran, I was very I have to admit disap- ing to sell the previously blocking of freedom of infor- Also on the books is the location of a BMX track and impressed with the slate of pointment. approved 2.4 acres for the mation. the purchase of the green space on Henderson Drive candidates running. There is still acrimony on technical services building. In closing, I understand almost opposite the town-owned Case Woodlot. For professional expertise council, vindictive leaks, and This defies all logic. the editor’s need to protect What about the Good Neighbour Award; property for at the municipal level and fis- a council that appears to The personnel who work the source of all this contro- a Habitat for Humanity home; entering the cal responsibility we now advance the interests of one there would readily access versy, but, needless to say, Communities in Bloom competition approved some have Grace Marsh, Evelina group of citizens as opposed the stores and restaurants there will be no Woodward- time ago; newspaper box licensing and historical MacEachern and Al Wilson. to the majority. going up in the gateway Bernstein Award for inves- plaques for parks, just to name a few? Wendy Gaertner and Traffic calming measures complex. tigative journalism forthcom- The mayor and council received nation-wide publici- Stephen Granger enthusias- in the northeast quadrant It seems a bit arrogant to ing. ty over their environmental Right to Dry clothesline tically represent the interests were expensive, inconven- ignore those economic ben- project, but have failed to take any action from a chal- of youth and sport. ient and I am still waiting to efits. Judy Salmon lenge from Richmond Hill dating back to June, 2006, Alison Collins-Mrakas has see the first snow plow or fire If this is, indeed, the case, Aurora when it was recommended by the Environmental the academic and profes- vehicle take out a cement Advisory Committee that an anti-idling program be sional qualifications to make wall. adopted and the challenge accepted. strong environmental pro- Now I read about the sug- THE AURORAN It was not the best of years and there are three more posals. gestion of a southeast her- to go in the term. Deputy-Mayor Bob itage district. Compare this with Newmarket, our neighbour to the McRoberts, with his knowl- More chaos in the Yonge- “Aurora’s Community Newspaper” north, as their Community Report lists the municipali- edge of local history and Wellington corner to follow. ty's significant accomplishments for the latter part of long-term residence in Driveways on Knowles Published weekly by The Auroran Publications Inc. 2006 and the first half of 2007. Aurora, I saw as a logical Crescent were another At 95 Edward Street, Aurora, L4G 1W1 The report tells how council and staff worked togeth- choice for a “community expensive boondoggle. Publisher Emeritus er to create a legacy of sustainability for generations to guardian” to oversee the However, these issues Rosemary Schumaker come by preparing to face a new era of growth. interests of all Aurorans. pale in comparison to the The 28-page publication features two articles: The Mayor Phyllis Morris was matter of the police head- Editorial Production story of a Sustainable Town and The Project of the my unquestioned choice with quarters and technical serv- Ron Wallace Cynthia Proctor Year. [email protected] [email protected] Dick Illingworth It focuses on environmental and financial sustain- Main Number [email protected] ability through responsible governance with the year's Staff woes fault 905-727-3300 project being Newmarket's new Official Plan. Photography Classifieds In May, 2007, at a special ceremony at Queen's David Falconer 905-727-7128 Park, Newmarket was recognized by Play Works as a of former mayor, [email protected] [email protected] Youth Friendly community for its commitment to provid- Advertising Facsimile Machine ing youth with opportunities to play, participate and Bob Ince 905-727-2620 contribute to their community. [email protected] reader maintains Editorial Department Just recently, Newmarket celebrated the ground- Diane Buchanan [email protected] breaking of Canada's greenest residential housing To the editor, iours do not occur [email protected] community with Ontario Environment Commissioner overnight; they take years Gord Miller and Andrew Bowerbank of World Green If the Town of Aurora's to evolve and entrench. Editorial policy Building Council in attendance. senior management staff As Aurora's mayor for At one time Aurora was the leader when it intro- are operating a culture of 12 years, Mr. Jones must Opinions expressed by columnists, contributors and letter writers are not duced its July First celebrations and became Canada's bullying and have disre- take full responsibility for necessarily those of The Auroran. Letters must include name and phone Birthday Town in 1969. gard for my hard earned his weak leadership and number, although number will not be published. Names may be withheld It was the first municipality in the area to twin with tax dollars, as an anony- his failure to reign in his assuming a compelling reason to do so. Letters may be edited or another municipality, Leksand, Sweden, in 1974. mous letter writer to The senior staff. refused. All contents protected by copyright. It can be done again but council and staff must work Auroran has alleged, then Perhaps this is another together as a team in the best interests of all residents the blame must lie good reason why he's now Advertising policy and forget about personal attacks, nitpicking, and squarely on the shoulders the FORMER mayor. Publisher is not liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do delaying tactics. of our former Mayor, Tim not lessen the value of an advertisement. Disputes must be brought to They need to start working with and trusting staff Jones. Jim Day the attention of the publisher prior to the following edition. members. These types of behav- Aurora THE AURORAN, December 4, 2007 - 5 Machell’s Corners by Scott Johnston
Front Porch Perspective An extra Aurora Regional seat? By Stephen Somerville
There have been many media stories lately regarding the clash bers of Regional Council at their inaugural meeting and also abreast of their developments and potential impacts on Aurora." between the Ontario provincial government and the federal gov- serves a four-year term." I then asked the mayor “assuming we do get a second seat, ernment over the number of House of Commons seats that York Region is comprised of nine municipalities (March 31, are you in favour of having a direct election for a regional council- Ontario would have after the next riding re-distribution. 2007 population in brackets) - Aurora (49,716), East Gwillimbury lor, like in Newmarket, or would you rather see the person with the The Federal Conservatives' Bill C-22, according to a recent (22,721), Georgina (46,026), King (20,386), Markham (283,297), second most votes - the deputy mayor - as the representative?” Globe and Mail story, "seeks to add seats in Alberta, British Newmarket (79,448), Richmond Hill (178,327), Vaughan The mayor did not want to answer this question at this point in Columbia and Ontario to bring those provinces' representation in (250,032) and Whitchurch - Stouffville (27,788). time, as she wants to first discuss this with her council colleagues the Commons closer to their share of Canada's population." Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Whitchurch - Stouffville and King and get their views. The story goes on to note that, "In Ontario, however, even the each receive one seat, while Georgina and Newmarket have two But she did point out one thing that will have to be taken into addition of 10 seats, as the bill proposes, will not close the gap. seats, Richmond Hill three seats, Vaughan four seats and consideration and that is the fact that most York Region committee Currently, that province has 38 percent of the population and 34.4 Markham gets five seats. work occurs during the day so the second region representative per cent of the seats. Even if Bill C-22 passes, the gap will grow by Aurora, based upon the fact that its current population is would have to be paid to do this full-time. 2011 (population 39.4, seats 35.3), grow further by 2021, and greater than Georgina, should have two seats. Having this extra seat could dovetail quite nicely with the intro- grow further still by 2031." Is there anything that we can do about getting another seat? duction of a ward system in Aurora. To achieve real representation by population would require an I posed this question to Aurora Mayor Phyllis Morris in a brief If the additional representative is directly elected by us town additional 16 seats for Ontario, not 10. telephone interview. folk, he/she would also sit on Aurora Council as an "at large' coun- This could become an important issue during the next federal She stated that she is currently gathering information in prepa- cillor. election. ration for a detailed motion that she will be putting forth - on behalf The argument for Aurora having another seat, while no doubt Aurora has its own "rep by pop" issue. of Aurora Council - to York Region Council early in the New Year. sound, doesn't mean this is a slam dunk by any means. Some background is in order. "It's important that our motion really make the case for the addi- After all, we are talking about Aurora receiving something According to the York Region website, "The Regional tional seat," she said. extra, which implies another municipality losing out. Municipality of York is one of six Regional Governments in Ontario. She added, that in addition to providing Aurora with simply Moreover, true rep by pop does have its limitations. "The 21 members of York Regional Council (including the may- more representation, this extra individual would allow for better If having a population of 50,000 people means having two ors of the nine municipalities) set policies, direction and budgets coverage of the various York Region Task Forces and region seats, then the good people in Markham and Vaughan may for The Regional Municipality of York. Committees. start clamouring for additional seats to preserve the status quo. "In York Region, members of Regional Council are chosen by In addition to her duties as mayor and sitting on York Regional Lots to think about; I intend to follow up on this early in the New voters in what is termed a "double direct" form of election. Council, Ms Morris also sits on three York Region Committees; Year once the mayor's motion is put forward to York Region. “That is, a successful candidate for the office of Mayor or Health and Emergency Services, Solid Waste and Planning and Stay tuned. Regional Councillor in a municipality earns a seat on both local Economic Development. and Regional Council for four years. The mayor stated that, with her other responsibilities, "time will Stephen can be contacted at: "The Chair of Regional Council is elected at large by the mem- not permit me to sit on the rest of the committees, but I keep [email protected]
Cathy’s Corner A chair is just a chair... By Cathy Vrancic
I bought a chair. It is just a chair. It doesn't do much except Commerce luncheon, so I arrived at my father's house I got into the van and shouted: "Nothing else is allowed sit there waiting to be sat upon… already dressed for the luncheon. Mistake… to go wrong! Did you hear me?" But it's not an ordinary chair. It is a unique chaise with the I stepped out of my car and…it started to rain. And nothing else did. audacity to have only one arm and the arrogance to claim This meant I couldn't bring the chair home in an open Sometimes I talk to myself, but this time I was talking to elegant superiority not in spite of its lack of symmetry, but trailer - it would get wet! my life. because of it. I fell in love… Hands on hips, I surveyed the van with trailer already Because there are only two ways to live: we can let our Of course I got it on sale. Yes, it was 40 per cent off and attached (for my convenience!), and wondered how difficult it environment dictate to us, or we can demand from our that meant that "free delivery" was not part of the deal. would be to detach the trailer. environment. Since the delivery charge would drive the price of the It was a lot harder than I thought. All the bolts and pins Sometimes I forget this vital piece of truth, but I wanted chair up by 15 per cent, I decided to pick it up. A good idea, were rusted, and by the time I was done, my hands were that chair! And being powerless wasn't going to stop the rain except among the half dozen vehicles that create a parking stained, missing a few fingernails, cold and very sore. or unhitch the trailer or get the seats out of the van. nightmare in my driveway, not a single one of them could But the job wasn't done yet. The seats inside the van had So I chose to persevere and be like my chair: outrageous, accommodate my chair. to be removed, and these babies pack about 80 pounds audacious and not quite balanced! But my father owns a van and a trailer and all the little each. That would be nearly 70 per cent of my body weight. Okay, so it's just a chair. Like any chair, it just sits there bolts and pins that allow a trailer to be attached to a van, so There were four of them and one of me…in high heels. waiting to be sat upon… I thought it was going to be easy, especially since my dad That would be roughly the equivalent of childbirth. But it was worth it. Because every time I'm near it, my said he would hitch the trailer to the van for me. Continuing to do the math, I immediately realized a chair whispers to me. How hard could it be? Put the chair in the trailer and drive, woman did not design this van. "There are only two ways to live," it says. right? By the time I dragged the last seat into my dad's garage, And it won't let me forget. Not so fast… I was exhausted and aching all over. My hair was frizzy and I had to pick up my chair at 10 a.m. in Woodbridge and my feet were killing me. Plus, I was wet and dirty and running Cathy Vrancic welcomes e-mail at: had to be back before noon to attend an Aurora Chamber of late. [email protected] 6 - THE AURORAN, Week of December 4, 2007 Letters to the Editor BRICKBATS Bouquets & By DICK ILLINGWORTH Who is going to pay legal bills? Open letter to Aurora I have requested by e- Council was informed Mayor, all in-camera meet- BOUQUETS to Carl Rom-Colthoff of Aurora and part- Mayor Phyllis Morris: mail, Mr. Panizza to forward Nov. 20, after the fact, that ings will be suspended. ner Kyle Soehn of Red Deer, Alberta, for coming terms of reference and Mr. Rust-D'Eye was on hand It is not clear why or how from third place to win the Gold in the synchro- I have read the media parameters of the contract at your press conference. you propose to suspend nized Trampoline Tumbling Championship in release and letter to the edi- with Mr. Rust-D'Eye and the He was quoted in the media dealing with essential items Quebec City in the 17-18 age group. tor you presented to council section of the Municipal Act release. of town business and what as a fait accompli Nov. 20 which provides authority to Rules of evidence, part of the Municipal Act BRICKBATS to a justice system which allows the which you signed as Mayor expend public resources on Madame Mayor, dictate that gives you the authority to Crown to drop its case against four men and Councillors. this matter. unless a witness is present, make this unilateral deci- charged in a massive cocaine trafficking case Since councillors were Three weeks later the comments are hearsay and sion. allegedly linked to organized crime because the five not apprised of the letter, information has not been therefore not valid evidence. I note we had an in-cam- investigating RCMP officers were on sick leave. the press conference or the provided. From my perspec- The press conference era agenda for Nov. 27. media release, until after tive, the situation is even was in rebuttal to a column How does that reconcile BOUQUETS to Samantha Sendal of Aurora on winning the fact, it is difficult to com- less clear today. in The Auroran. That is a with your dictum there will the Silver in the under-17 at the Trampoline prehend why you felt you Mr. Rust-D'Eye informed political action, Madame be no such meeting until an Tumbling Championship in Quebec City. She will had that authority. me Nov. 13, he had been Mayor. undetermined date? be eligible to qualify for the Canadian team for I wish not to be associat- provided with and had read Consequently, it appears As you can see, a num- the 2012 Olympic Games. ed with either document for numerous documents; Mr. Rust-D'Eye's services ber of significant questions the following reason. blogs, e-mails and letters to were used to support your are posed. We hold office to BRICKBATS to the motorists who forgot to remember While the release and the editor written by me. political agenda. The deal with the public agenda. and travelled noisily past the Aurora Cenotaph letter state what was not Since my purpose in writing Corporation's interest was Personal and political while the Remembrance Day Service was tak- illegal and what did not take these missives was to share not affected. matters are not part of our ing place. What happened to council's previous decision place at the closed ses- my thoughts on town mat- The question derived function as members of to divert traffic on Yonge Street during the service? sions, they do not acknowl- ters with anyone who might from all of this is, who will council. edge what town business wish to read them, I have no pay for Mr. Rust-D'Eye's I take no comfort or BOUQUETS to the Aurora Legion for the actually did take place. concerns about the solicitor service in this context? assurance from your con- Remembrance Day Parade and Service and to They are a masterpiece becoming familiar with how I I believe it is incumbent cept of how public business the Legionnaires who travelled to Camp Borden of obfuscation. think and communicate with on yourself and those coun- should be conducted. to join in the their Remembrance Day Service I have been attempting to those I am committed to cillors who agreed to retain That is regrettable. with Aurora's Parade Marshall Ken White and Silver Cross understand the purpose of serve. the gentleman's service to I cannot, however, allow Mother Dorothy Gummersall laying wreaths. Mr. Rust-D'Eye being However, it throws no indicate how they intend it to interfere with my own retained by yourself and light on why Mr. Rust-D'Eye these fees to be paid. responsibility to keep my BOUQUETS to Thompson Funeral Home for transport- seven members of council. has been retained at sub- If not at their personal commitment to the people ing families affiliated with Hospice King/Aurora On Nov. 13 you declined stantial cost to the public expense, then how is the who gave me their trust. to and from the Ontario Provincial A Hockey to respond to my request to treasury. The question public expenditure to be jus- League game between the Aurora Tigers and the specify reasons for your looms large in the minds of tified? Evelyn Buck Couchiching Terriers Family Night at the Aurora precipitate action. many in Aurora. You indicated, Madame Councillor Community Centre.
BRICKBATS to whoever provided a 14-year-old boy with the money or sold him a 1991 car without What good is high-priced his family's knowledge. He took two school- mates on a ride, crashed, killing both of them. He is under arrest. There are a lot of questions to be answered. . lawyer, reader wonders BOUQUETS to all the people who are going to volun- teer for the 2007 Salvation Army Christmas To the editor, purported “investigation” occurred and is now, thus, not at all appreciated when Kettle Drive to assist those in need. All the into the leak over a secret the past? there are many more proj- money raised in Aurora is used to fund Salvation What happened to our council meeting. It cannot be undone. ects needing funding, such Army programs in Aurora. If you can volunteer a couple of “transparent” government? Why are taxpayers on the Even if a source were as our infrastructure. hours during the month of December, call 905-727-8214. It is with great dismay to hook again? identified, it is not as if there You can’t play a CD on see another example of both What good is a high- would be prosecution or our roads (I’ve tried and BOUQUETS to all the volunteers who are answering secrecy and the abuse of priced lawyer going to do other action. after three plays they skip the call of the Ontario Safety League and the taxpayers’ dollars with the any of us since the leak has Since the meeting was ever after). Insurance Bureau of Canada to participate in so “secret” and only council- And, whatever happened Operation Red Nose to give partygoers a free lors were wherever they to funds from the sale of ride home when they are incapable of driving. Aurora is Governor enjoyed were, it limits the culprits to Aurora Hydro? one of seven Ontario municipalities participating in the those at this “secret” meet- I guess that will be decid- operation. Call 1-877-253-0033 to volunteer. ing. ed in secret, too. her visit to Aurora Can’t they sort it out over We all deserve better BRICKBATS to the Harper government for paying a Open letter to Aurora tion of hard work and play. a drink on their own time than that. $10 million settlement to kill a contract Rotary Club president You are doing a wonder- and dime? designed to modernize the long-gun registry's Greg Foster ful job as president - just Don’t waste any more of Linda Stephens computer system. According to the Liberal opposition the give me a call if you need our public tax dollars - it is Aurora government has wasted $80 million of work already done Bob Maxwell and I anything. and was further proof the Tories are opposed to gun con- would like to thank you for Thank you again. trol. the warm welcome we Please extend my grate- received from your club fulness to David Pierce for BOUQUETS to York Regional Police on winning an last evening (Monday, Nov. the wine and jokes. Also to award from the International Association of 26). Ron Wallace for his hospi- Chiefs of Police for its anti-gang strategy, which Although this was our tality. supports youth and mentoring programs and pro- last “official” visit, I hope to It was exactly what was vides free transportation to recreation centres. hear and see you through- needed on a snowy out our new year. evening. BOUQUETS to Santa Claus, the star of last week’s What a terrific and fun nighttime parade for travelling the entire length club you have. Lynda Ryder of the parade without assistance from the PA It’s the perfect combina- District Governor system in his sled that wasn’t working.
BRICKBATS to Commissioner William Elliott and sen- ior officials of the RCMP for not taking action ONUMENTS BY to correct the force's policy of dispatching sin- M gle officers, without backup to settle cases in Northern Canada, which has resulted in the recent loss of two offi- HOMPSONS cers. TA New Approach to Memorial Design. * Granite markers and monuments Car + Home = * Cemetery lettering and restoration * Bronze markers and vases BIG SAVINGS * Serving all cemeteries and nationali- ties * Portrait Etchings Quality and Satisfaction Guaranteed Day, Evening and Weekend Appointments LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOUR, STATE FARM IS THERE: Providing Insurance and Financial Services 905-727-5421 905-727-8400 530 Industrial Pkwy S., Aurora L4G 6W8 220 Industrial Pkwy S., Unit 37 Peter Virtanen (Just south of the soccer fields) CLU. Agent, Aurora Thompson Funeral Home is proud to be part of PO58005CN State Farm ¥ Home Offices Aurora, Ontario ¥ Statefarm.caª Service Corporation International (Canada) Ltd. THE AURORAN, December 4, 2007 - 7 Letters to the Editor True Christmas meaning To the editor, It was great to hear some I am not sure if there were of the participants wish the other schools and if there I would like to congratulate crowd Merry Christmas rather were I am sorry I missed the organizers of the Aurora than happy holidays. them. Santa Claus Parade. I also enjoyed hearing Thanks to the many local I believe that this was one Christmas Carols. businesses that actually dec- of the best in recent years. Most floats were the best orated their floats and vehi- I say this based on my per- that I have seen as were the cles rather than just advertis- sonal belief that the parade great bands and the many ing their business. was more in line with the true marchers. In closing I would like to meaning of Christmas to me. Thanks to the local say that I believe that the churches for reminding us town mayor should be in the Different level what Christmas is all about parade but it was disappoint- with their wonderful floats. ing to see would-be politi- but Tim same Thanks to the local cians have a float hoping to schools, both elementary and pick up votes just in case To the editor, high schools for showing there will be a federal election great spirit, in particular Dr. soon. Everyone is now on the GW. Williams Secondary band wagon for more tax dol- School and Highview Public Nigel Kean lars from Ottawa for munici- School. Aurora pal infrastructure. Tim Jones, looking for an issue for the upcoming feder- al election, has commented Call me if you would like that the Conservatives are a second opinion on your not doing enough. RRSP & Investment strategy. His cry for more of your tax dollars would have a higher degree of creditability Stephen Forsey CIM FCSI if he had actually done some- Investment Representative thing locally during his tenure JONES, GABLE & COMPANY as mayor. LIMITED (Member CIPF) The truth of the matter is www.jonesgable.com 905-726-9343 despite raising the Aurora portion of our municipal tax bill more than 50 per cent in the last six years, there was DAMIR VRANCIC no real growth in local infra- structure spending and LAW OFFICE Aurora now faces a $35 mil- BUSINESS LAW, lion repair backlog. REAL ESTATE, Do we really want more of the same from Tim at the fed- WILLS & ESTATES eral level? 905-841-6411 Cloak, the mouse hunting cat at Aurora Home Hardware, top photo, is now John Galt Providing valued and trusted legal advice since 1983 back on the job, and was welcomed home with a cake. Aurora Auroran photos by Bob Ince “Cloak” the cat, is back To the editor, “Cloak” is back now as we ED. NOTE: Consider The real gift is the time decided that we would rather the story retracted, I would like you to retract have one cat than many rats. however, it did originate you’ll spend together. your story about “Cloak”. The number of calls we from a store employee. Your representation of have received in a negative Meanwhile, this story what happened was totally way since this article was generated one of the untrue. written is ridiculous. highest responses of We had a customer who The cat was back even letters to the editor that was extremely allergic to the before the article went out in we have ever received. cat and we were unsure what the paper. Since Cloak is back to do about the cat. Please retract your story. home we have elected “Cloak” went to an not to print the letters. employee’s home for two Chris Barfitt Thanks to all those who days. Aurora Home Hardware wrote in. Wouldn’t condone misuse of information, Jones says
To the editor, I was charged with being bers of council, and not responsible for the fiscal being misused, I acted RE: Access to phone affairs of our Town and need- accordingly. log information (The ed to make decisions and act At no time would I Auroran, Letter to the edi- at all times in the best inter- condone the misuse of tor from Richard Johnson, ests of the Town as a whole. confidential information. Tim Hortons invites you to enjoy some time with your Nov. 27) If that meant ensuring to family and friends and skate for free at your local arena. the best of my ability that Tim Jones I was perplexed when I processes and procedures Former Mayor It’s our way of saying thank you and happy holidays. read in Tuesday's Auroran were being followed as they Town of Aurora Visit your local Aurora Tim Hortons for a schedule of about an investigation into should be by staff and mem- 1994-2006 access to phone logs of ice times and locations. members of council in 2004. Upon calling the Chief Administrator of the Town of Aurora, I was advised that he was unaware of any investi- gation. As Mayor and Chief Executive Officer for the Town of Aurora for 12 years, I $4,000 was privy to a lot of informa- tion in various circumstances that would be considered © Tim Hortons, 2007 confidential. 8 - THE AURORAN, Week of December 4, 2007 Letters to the Editor This show will overwhelm you
To the editor, baking and wrapping pres- guides them to Mary and be worrying about what ing the comforts of home time when we undecorate, ents. Joseph’s home and to the comes next. for one night to come out beyond when new toys Recently, I opened 11 e- I love making or shop- baby Jesus, we read that But if Christmas comes and experience. have lost their luster, mails from people asking if ping for that perfect thing they were overwhelmed and goes, and we miss out We hope that our cele- beyond when our thoughts it is all right not to give me for a friend, and trying to with joy. on the joy, if we forgot to be brations of Christmas have turned to spring and a gift this year. express in writing my feel- The Wise Men bow moved by the story, or if we music on stage will evoke a summer again. Some letters are from ings of appreciation to them down and worship Jesus, never stop to appreciate the response so that we can all This year, still overjoyed, people saying they are too for the warm flow of love and offer him precious gifts, magnitude of the gift being really let go of all the gloom overwhelmed with tired to come to a show, they give to me. and then return home, hav- given to us, then we’ve and the doom so that we Christmas, I hope we can and from people feeling too I love that the houses ing seen what they set out missed out on Christmas all can fully receive, be totally all open our hearts and tired to bake, too tired to sparkle with lights and to see, and having been together, missed as much overwhelmed, by what offer to our loved ones and entertain, too tired to dec- décor, and ancient tales of warned in a dream not to as those who believe goodness there is in this the world our finest gifts. orate, too broke to buy family holiday moments go back Herod’s way. Christmas is just a day to world. Looking forward to see- presents and all in some gone by are told with laugh- When was the last time exchange gifts and get I wish for all of us that ing you in the audience. way are describing the ter and glistening eyes. you were overwhelmed with presents. we may carry with us the overwhelming feelings this This is the season when joy? The star has stopped, overwhelming joy of Sarah Kyle holiday season is bringing people in the Christian faith The downside of being and we are meant to be Christmas, that we may General Director to them. think about the birth of in an dark overwhelmed overwhelmed with joy. keep with us the gift of hol- Aurora Performing I feel alien to these Jesus. mood, is that it is some- This Christmas I hope iday spirit, long beyond the Arts Group thoughts because I love We are told these Wise times hard to be over- that each of you remember this time of year. Men studied the stars, and whelmed with joy. to take your family out of the It’s when the good stuff they travelled to It is sometimes easier to house. comes out, it’s when I actu- Bethlehem, still following go through the motions, to Perhaps to one of the ally feel like knitting and the star, and when the star be busy with the details, to beautiful rinks we have for a skate, or to walk by the win- dows of Aurora shops, or to come and see one of the Water Softening, Purification, No respect for staff many plays and shows Filtration & Sterilization Units going on in live theatre this holiday. The Aurora Performing Tel: (905) 727-6401 8 Industrial Pkwy.S. from council: reader Arts Group is presenting www.nyhp.on.ca Aurora, Ontario Amahl and the Night To the editor, been in the town hall? made this decision? Visitors this season at I've lived in this com- It's pretty clear to all Newmarket Theatre Former Councillor Bill munity now for 15 years who watch the council December 13-16. Hogg should write a and I never heard any talk meetings how little This wonderful, short, weekly column in The about an inside union up respect some of our inspirational musical is Auroran. until now. elected officials have about a miracle that occurs He served this commu- I've read more contro- around that table for the when a young boy offers a nity for two terms as he versial stories about staff management team. selfless generous gift. indicated, six years. leaving the town employ Just listen to how they It is performed by a large Obviously, although over the last year than publicly attack staff. cast of Aurorans. sitting on the sidelines, ever before. That's where a culture It’s a festive and joyous he is still passionate Senior management in of micro-managing will musical and it’s worth leav- about his town, passion- the town hasn't changed lead you. ate enough to give us his but there was a municipal There's no point in take once in a while election this time last restating all the problems based on his knowledge year. in town that can relate and experience of town Just look at how the back to only one The Royal Canadian Legion matters. seating has changed in cause…leadership. Unlike “Anonymous”, the council chamber this I can't wait to see Mr. Col. Fred Tilston V.C. who clearly hasn't a clue year. Us (council) on one Hogg's one year report (Ont. 385) Branch based on his/her view of side and them (depart- card. 105 Industrial Parkway North town staff and their rela- ment heads) on the other tionship with manage- side. S. Williams P.O. Box 73, ment. Has he/she even Who do you think Aurora Aurora, Ont. L4G 3H1
To the members of Branch 385 and the people of Aurora Reader can’t wait We wish to thank you For your generous contribution to the 2006-2007 to see lawyer bill Poppy Trust Campaign, To the editor, solicitor "prepared a draft And what will it cost to which enables us to carry out obligations to our veterans, bylaw which would cover repair "The Leak"? their dependents, hospitals and bursaries programs. History tells us our friends such meetings", the same How fortunate we are to to the south of us faced a cri- members of council who are have The Auroran and Dick sis in Watergate. Apparently leading this charge, refused Illingworth acting as our The following is from the 2006-2007 Poppy Trust Fund right here in Aurora we have to support this legal direc- "watchdog" to keep us our own crisis heretofore tion. informed. Income from campaign and all other sources $36,898.66 referred to as "The Leak". How will these same Thank goodness our members of council vote this B. Harris mayor and some council time? Aurora Campaign expenses members have committed to Poppies and Wreaths $7,896.24 get to the bottom of it, appar- PRO Material $1,482.02 ently at any price. Local expenses $1,286.86 I can't wait to see what this bill comes in at. Enjoy Your Office Sub-total $10,665.12 Dick Illingworth points out to us that George Rust Grants to ex-service persons/dependents $11,497.47 D'Eye, an "expert on munici- Bursaries and donations $4,475.00 pal law", has been retained • Design & Space Planning at who knows how much, to • Complete range of office furniture Sub-total $26,928.47 look into "The Leak". • 1000 + page catalogue of office supplies Total expenses & distribution $37,593.59 Apparently, again according to Mr. Illingworth, this same and FREE DELIVERY (In town with minimum $40 order) Balance 2006/7 campaign [694.93] solicitor was retained to pro- vide an opinion on whether • Showroom in Aurora an off-site retreat or work- • Business Net Pricing Len Whines shop was legal in the eyes of President and Poppy Chairman the Municipal Act. 905-727-1567 Dick goes on to inform us 75 Mary St., Unit 11, Aurora that even though this same renaissanceoffice.com THE AURORAN, December 4, 2007 - 9 Letters to the Editor What has happened to Christmas? To the editor, seeing children excited and so I tend to avoid malls and tains to this holiday. banned so a dedicated Watch Ð pretty soon happy and the giving (I don’t finish my shopping very early Does X mark the spot and Christian candy maker start- candy canes will go the way Christmas has always receive well Ð but that is to the annoyance of my if it does what spot is it? ed with a piece of pure white of Xmas (we all know what been my favourite time of the another story) of self going to friends. X, according to Oxford is a hard candy, fashioned a "J" the X stands for now Ð an year. a Christmas service and, of I like to make presents or letter, a Roman numeral, first (or shepherd’s staff) then abbr. for Christmas) pag- I even have a red brick course, the presents. at least find something the unknown quantity, incalcula- placed three small red stripes eants, lights, carols, trees house with a green roof. Over the years some recipient I hope will enjoy. ble or mysterious factor or around the candy (represent- etc. Santa Claus (as we know Variations of these colours things have begun to irritate Like most people I have a influence. ing the "holy trinity") and a him) is safe Ð he was invent- permeate my home. me, spoiling my Christmas tendency to overeat, over- Oxford also notes that single bold red stripe through ed by Coca Cola. I enjoy the festive decorat- spirit. spend and if there is such a Xmas is the abbr. Christmas, the candy representing the You can mess with reli- ing, cooking specialities of Crowded stores filled with thing, overenjoy! festival of Christ’s birth, 25th redeeming power of Christ’s gious symbols but not a the season, entertaining anxious people buying for the I have watched with Dec., devoted esp. to family blood. megaconglomerant. friends, having all my family sake of buying and the curiosity Christmas become reunion & merrymaking etc. Sometimes a green stripe together over the holidays, tedious finding a parking spot Xmas wondering how X per- Once I looked up Xmas Ð was added Ð green is the Bonnie Tiffin thinking that ("the powers that colour of giving. Oak Ridges be") they took the Christ out Questions need answering of Christmas Ð and learned To the editor, What's happening to the answers to. that it was just a cover-up. abandoned hydro building? Issues that will affect the Why the secrecy? In Canada we celebrate Flowers In the wake of all these What about library square, quality of life for ALL resi- closed door discussions as which has sat unutilized as dents. Queen Victoria’s B-Day and by Terry we listen to the mayor and the buildings continue to Who knows? Perhaps no one seems to complain. other members of this council deteriorate while any number that's all been decided, like Years ago there were 14799 Yonge St. who tell us that this term is of community groups look for the police headquarters Christmas pageants in the Aurora schools with mangers and Telephone: 905-726-1549 different because they are space to meet? What about opportunity, in private. email: [email protected] "open and transparent", I Church Street School and the Perhaps that's for them to everything. www.flowersbyterry.com have a few questions. Heritage Museum? know and us to find out. What happened? I ask these questions Any talk about a much Thank goodness this com- In most public buildings If we wouldn’t take it home why would we sell it to you? while the mayor authorizes needed youth centre? munity got wind of the police Christmas trees are not expenditures on frivolous Maybe they've spent the proposal. allowed Ð because they are matters that speak more to funds from the hydro sale and How else would we ever decorated for Christmas, also personal vendettas against we just don't know about it have known? Scary stuff. used as Chanukah bushes for the celebration of the festi- other members of council yet. val of lights? PLUMBING SERVICE than they do to what's good These are just a couple of S. Brown (Serving York Region for more than 35 years) for our community. questions I'd love to have Aurora What possible harm does putting decorations of a fir tree cause? Some narrow-minded indi- Residential–Commercial–Industrial Remove Aurora chicanes viduals have always consid- ered symbolism evil. During the 18th century, in England, before someone gets hurt all religious symbols were [email protected] 905-727-3210 To the editor, chicane on Walton Drive. is no way two-way traffic can Also the speed-humps occur when a school bus is Unfortunately I have to installed in that northeast navigating through the chi- complain again about the chi- quadrant are way too aggres- canes, not even the short canes installed on Walton sive. buses because of their width. Drive and Mark Street. I invite you to try riding in a The only thing these chi- They are very, very, very school bus going over these canes are good for is to put dangerous as proven when speed-humps. your garbage out on. These slippery heavy wet snow fell on The contractors who chicanes must be removed Monday evening, Nov. 26. installed these chicanes said before someone gets hurt. An oncoming car just nar- that two-way traffic can occur rowly missed me as the driver with school buses. Alex Andruszkiw lost traction going around a From what I've seen there Aurora Chamber supports route An open letter to members Please do not hesitate to Carla Adams of the Aurora Chamber of contact me should you have any Executive Director Commerce additional comments or con- Aurora Chamber of cerns on this issue. Commerce Here is a quick follow-up on Winners of the the York Region Transit (YRT) Call today about our proposal to cancel Bus Route Best Commercial Float Award 34 along Industrial Parkway: Pre-Christmas Promotion - based on the member feedback received on this issue, the overwhelming majority of businesses are opposed to the cancellation of public transit service along Indsutrial Parkway; - I attended the Town Council meeting Nov.13 to com- municate the feedback received from members. At that time, I provided Town Council and YRT authorities with our preliminary ASK ABOUT OUR GIFT CARD PROGRAM comments on this issue; and - YRT officials at the Town Council meeting committed to further consultation with local businesses regarding public transit service on Industrial Parkway and other industrial areas in Aurora. This consulta- tion is to occur prior to any changes being implemented such as the cancellation of Bus Route 34. Back row: Lawrence, Marion, Kate, Marj, Richard, Pam We will keep you informed of Front row: Sarah, Korrissa further developments on this issue. Many thanks to our Parade Team! 10 - AURORAN, Week of December 4, 2007 AURORAN, Week of December 4, 2007 - 11 Compliments HURST BAKERYof the Season
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Engelhard 905-727-9444 15783 Yonge St., Aurora Auto Campus HOME STORE www.highlandgm.com SPORTS SEE OUR AD PAGE 19 Page 12 Week of December 4, 2007 auroran.com 905-727-3300 Tigers entertain hometowners with two wins By JOHN KLEIN acquired from the Burnaby Stouffville’s Corey Fulton late (Watts) SH 3.06 S: Corey Trivino (Smith) SH 13.14 Express, and former Tiger in the game. Third Period 12.11 A: Sam Yearsley Their frozen stage sur- Jordan Smith, who was re- With the weekend sweep H: Brad Williams (Waddell, A: Paul Dupont (Thomson) (Vanderlugt, Thomson) 18.13 rounded twice on the weekend acquired from the Collingwood the Tigers improve their record Chambers) 2.30 by a crowd of nearly 500, the Blues, each added two assists. to 19-6-3, and are now within a A: Mark Thorburn Aurora Tigers managed a pair Goaltender Aaron Barton single point of the Couchiching (McGarry, Thomson) 8.09 of wins against two of the top recorded the victory stopping Terriers for third place in the A: Mark Thorburn teams in the Provincial Junior 38 shots. North Division. (Harbach, Smith) PP 13.19 A hockey north division. Sunday afternoon the The Tigers also have a A: Thomas Middup (Smith) Friday night, against the, at Tigers returned to the game in hand on the Terriers PP 13.58 the time, first place Huntsville- Community Centre, to meet and two in hand on the H: Josh Vatri (Barss, Ball) Muskoka Otters, they edged another key North Division rival Newmarket Hurricanes who PP 18.39 the division leaders 4-3, then from Whitchurch-Stouffville. regained their first place stand- AURORA 6 followed Sunday afternoon Going into the game the ing over this weekend’s action. STOUFFVILLE 3 with a 6-3 victory over the Tigers had played the Spirit The Tiger’s next game is First Period Whitchurch-Stouffville Spirit at four times this season and Friday at home when they host S: James McIntosh the Aurora Community Centre. boast a 3-1 record against their the Seguin Bruins. Game time (Archibald, Trivino) 0.48 Friday, Aurora trailed twice neighbouring rivals, including a is 7.30 p.m. at the Community A: Michael Sardella in the game, 1-0 in the first recent 5-3 victory last week- Centre. (Morley, Middup) 7.59 period and 2-1 midway through end. The next day, it’s up to Second Period the third,but they battled hard Aurora’s Paul Dupont Collingwood for a Saturday S: Ethan Werek (Sullivan, and bested their rivals 4-3. scored twice, including a short- night affair with the Blues. Smith) 1.47 New Tiger Captain Mark handed marker and Captain AURORA 4 A: Mark Thorburn (Watts, Thorburn scored twice, first Mark Thorburn scored the HUNTSVILLE 3 Harbach) PP 17.03 tying the game and then later game winner as the Tigers First Period A: Paul Dupont (Smith, putting the Tigers up by a score improved to 4-1 against the H: Rob Waddell (Williams, McLaughlin) PP 19.21 of 3-2. Sprit this season with a 6-3 Pinkney) PP 10.36 Third Period After the Otters were able win. Second Period A: Mark Thorburn (Watts, to even the score at threes Additional scoring from A: Mike McLaughlin Harbach) 11.44 near the middle of the final Aurora came from Sam frame, the eventual game win- Yearsley and Micheal Sardella. ner came from defenseman Jeff Harbach and Matt Discount Thomas Middup who was able Thompson both had two RATES to slip one past Otter’s netmin- assists in the victory. der Jeff Dawson on a power- Aaron Barton recorded his without discount play. second straight win on the The other contributor for the weekend stopping 32 shots SERVICE. Tigers on the score sheet that came his way. It’s no accident more came compliments of forward He improved his record to people trust State Farm Mike McLaughlin with a 9-3-2. to insure their cars. second period shorthanded Jordan Smith gave the Call today. marker. Tigers a solid effort on defense, Newest Tiger Matt adding an assist and getting Thomson, who was recently involved in a spirited tilt with
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