Page PB THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 LIVING AND WORKING IN YOUR COMMUNITY THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 1 DOUG SABISTON CHRIS ABLETT Sales Representative B.A. M.A. 416.899.1083 [email protected] ♦ CASALES REPRESENTATIVE ANGELA JONES Sales Representative SALES • LEASING • SERVICE 905.717.6027
QUICK LANE • PARTS A
N N CALL US TODAY A W D 15815 Yonge Street, Aurora A O ’ T DIR: 905.717.8023 S B AY IRTHD BUS: 905.727.3154 11--888080-24653--03481419 www.YourCommunityRealEstate.com Email: [email protected]
150 Aurora’s Community Newspaper
CMCA Vol. 17 No. 21 905-727-3300 theauroran.com FREE Week of March 16, 2017 AUDITED
Book a Personal Tour 905-895-1700 ext. 259
16945 Bayview Ave., Newmarket www.pickeringcollege.on.ca
Your Home SOLD For 100% of Asking Price, OR I’LL PAY YOU THE DIFFERENCE* Seller Patty Must Agree on a Price and Closing Date. *Contact for Details Patty Asgaripour I have over 150 buyers in my database (Growing Daily) looking for a home in the area. Your Home Recognised at MPP Chris Ballard’s third-annual Leading Women/Leading Girls Building Communities Awards were Rola Issa, Angel Freedman, Phyllis Morris, Suzanne Whitehurst, Juli Playter, Laurie Mueller, Elaine Adam, Jan Freedman, Alex Karolyi, Laura Bradford, Shaylyn Benaissa, Nadia Gaurino, Lisa Walters, May Already Be Sold! Catherine Capek, Maimoona Ashraf, Gloria Reszler, Tanin Monzavi, Robyn Kassam, Rebecca Boyd, Karian Guimond, Marsha Fox, Taylor Piotrowski, and Call Patty Edna Bozhori. Most of the recipients, pictured above with Ballard and event emcee Vivian Risi, were on hand for Wednesday’s ceremony at Newmarket’s (905) 758-5323 Old Town Hall. Auroran photo by Glenn Rodger and start packing!
YOUR PATTY ASGARIpour ommunityREALTY C SALES REPRESENTATIVE “Leading Women and Girls” recognized as community builders Competence By Brock Weir Chris Ballard at Newmarket’s historic reducing racism and discrimination. Old Town Hall, the women and girls “These women and girls encourage Exclusivity Whether they are on the frontlines honoured on March 8 represented a others to participate in public service of change or working behind the scenes cross-section of both communities, in and act as positive role models through Passion to be the change they want to see in all sectors, and of all ages. mentoring, coaching and volunteering.” the world, the work and dedication of “The Leading Women Leading The first such individual to be countless women in our community Girls Building Communities Awards honoured was Rola Issa. Engel & Völkers York, Brokerage inspires individuals every day. acknowledges and celebrates women A driving force behind the re- Telephone +1 905-833-3008 On International Women’s Day last and girls who demonstrate exceptional establishment of the Aurora LEOs Club york.evcanada.com Wednesday, representatives from across leadership in working to improve the – the youth branch of the Lions Club – Aurora and Newmarket gathered to lives of others in their communities,” Ms. Issa was recognized for giving back AURORA’S 2016 TOP SALES PRODUCER* honour 23 of these community builders said Mr. Ballard. “They are champions at both levels of the club.
at the third annual Leading Women LENARD LIND** promoting issues such as equality and “Her relentless efforts can be Call today for a free property evaluation! Leading Girls Building Communities healthy, equal relationships. They raise witnessed through her volunteer work OUR TEAM Awards. awareness in the prevention of violence with the Newmarket Lions campaign to Hosted by Newmarket-Aurora MPP against women and girls, and help in Continued on page 13 Disabled homeless youth have a long road in York: student LENARD LIND BROKER OF RECORD By Brock Weir 905-841-0000 • [email protected] Aurora student Ben Williamson is pictured with Prime www.hallmarklindrealty.com Minister Justin Trudeau at a 2015 campaign stop in Aurora. 15105 Yonge Street, Suite 100, Aurora
On Sunday, local high school student (2 blocks south of Wellington on the east side) Auroran photo by Brock Weir *based on IMS Statistics, Aurora Offi ces **Some conditions may apply Ben Williamson returned home from a Ontario’s ONLY... ISO 9001: 2008 REGISTERED fruitful trip to Timmins. Residential Real Estate Company As a member of Premier Kathleen Wynne’s Council on Youth Opportunities, he and his fellow council-members were WHY PAY MORE? there to listen to young adults on their needs in the community and the province, but Ben returned home to uncertainty. For the past month, Ben has been living in a youth shelter in Richmond Hill through the non-profit 360 Kids. He says he found himself homeless earlier this year after leaving what he describes YOU NAME IT as an “unhealthy and toxic” relationship ...WE FRAME IT at home, but setting out on his own was 16686 Yonge St., Newmarket (905) 895-4084 Continued on page 15 Across from Mandarin Buffet Restaurant A name you know... people you trust!
Let us help you Established and Experienced. fi nd your One of Aurora’s top realtors for over 25 years dream home. Top 1% in Canada
ANDREW • SUSAN Continually Referred! Call us today and experience the difference!
Direct: 905-727-1961 [email protected] www.SusanCowen.com Page 2 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 3 Premier has blast from the past at Aurora Seniors’ Centre
By Brock Weir roundtables with businesses and business leaders earlier this week What was supposed to be a brief when she took some time to tour the meet and greet at the Aurora Seniors’ woodshop and computer facilities at the Centre on Tuesday morning turned out John West Way Centre, accompanied by to be a blast from the past for Premier MPP Chris Ballard, Mayor Geoff Dawe, Kathleen Wynne. and Councillor John Abel. The Premier was in Newmarket- Premier Wynne was presented Aurora for a series of stops and with a special “Maple Leaf Forever”
Auto + Home Combine and save.
Richard Gong, Agent
Call us today. (905) 727-6333 l 15342 Yonge St, Aurora l www.RichardGong.com
RBC Dominion Securities Inc.
Do you know exactly how much money you need to retire comfortably?
Brendan Black When planning for the next phase of your life, there are (Top) Premier Kathleen Wynne bumps into her Grade 2 teacher Clare Herrema at the Aurora Seniors’ MBA, CPA, CMA three questions you need to ask yourself: Centre. (Bottom) Meeting Nick Mozzetti in the Centre’s wood shop. Auroran photos by Brock Weir Investment Advisor medallion crafted by Aurora Seniors’ she and the Premier had a chance 905-841-8754 • Do I have a written financial plan? Centre members made from wood to reminisce. “The reason I thought [email protected] • Is my investment portfolio on the right track? derived from the Toronto tree that it was Grade 5 was she was always • Do I know how much I pay in fees for financial advice? RBC Dominion Securities inspired Alexander Muir to pen the bringing in political information! We iconic Canadian song in the middle of used to have a show and tell and she 14785 Yonge Street, 2nd floor If you answered “no” to any of the above, contact Aurora, ON L4G 1N1 the nineteenth century. would come in and talk about what Brendan Black today for a second opinion on your The tree, felled during a windstorm she had read in the [Richmond Hill] retirement plan. in the summer of 2013, was milled and Liberal about politics.” distributed to organizations across This was the first time the two the country for the crafting of special women had crossed paths since the objects for special occasions. Premier’s elementary school days. Following a tour of the woodshop An avid follower of Ms. Wynne’s and the computer room, where Premier political career, Ms. Herrema said it Wynne discussed various aspects of was “lovely” to see her. 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 Instagram and other forms of social “We had a very special class,” she Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©RBC Dominion Securities Inc. 2017. All rights reserved. 17_90409_H7L_001 media with members, she had a chance said. encounter with Aurora resident Clare The Premier’s day started in Barrie Herrema, who just happened to have and, following the Seniors’ Centre, been Premier Wynne’s Grade 2 teacher. moved to Newmarket for stops along “I thought it was Grade 5, but it was Main Street, Dairy Quality Inc, and Grade 2,” said Ms. Herrema following wrapping up with a roundtable at the brief reunion, during which Treefrog Inc. Former MP Sinclair Stevens dies at 89
By Bill Rea and withdrew in favour of the eventual victor Joe Clark. He served as President Sinclair Stevens, former Member of the Treasury Board in the short-lived of Parliament and minister in two Clark government. Progressive Conservative governments, Mr. Stevens was handily re-elected is dead. as the Member for York-Peel in the Mr. Stevens died unexpectedly 1984 general election that saw the November 30 after suffering a severe Progressive Conservatives under heart attack at his King Township Brian Mulroney sweep to power. home. He was 89. He was named Minister of Regional “It was very unexpected,” his wife Industrial Expansion in the new Noreen said. “He had been active up government, but resigned in 1986 when until the day before.” conflict of interest allegations were He was first elected to the House raised against him. of Commons in the 1972 election as a A lengthy public inquiry concluded Progressive Conservative in the riding he had been in conflict. of York-Simcoe. Mr. Stevens ran as Mr. Stevens had been nominated by a candidate in the 1976 Progressive the Tories in a newly-created riding to Conservative leadership convention. run in the 1988 campaign, but Mulroney He finished seventh on the first ballot, Continued on page 6
ONE WEEK ONLY on any single-receipt, in-store purchase of $299 or more (including taxes) when you use Thursday, March 16 NO INTEREST your Home Depot® Consumer Credit Card† to Wednesday, from Thursday, March 16 to Wednesday, March 22, 2017 IF PAID IN March 22, 2017. Payments required. % OR No annual fees. Maximum discount on the 10% off offer is $300 (before taxes). Certain # FULL WITHIN restrictions and exclusions apply to the 10% off OFF * offer and important terms and conditions apply 10 18 MONTHS to both offers. See page 7 for details. Valid Thursday, March 16 to Wednesday, April 26, 2017 KRAFTMAID® UP Geneva TO $ save event update& To learn more, visit homedepot.ca/updateandsave 8000 INSTANT BY LET’S DO MORE FABRITECFOR LESS. INSTANT SAVINGS Santa Fe ON ALL SPECIAL ORDER KRAFTMAID® KITCHEN CABINETS Sonora Minimum purchase of $2,500. Valid on any single assembled kitchen cabinet or Eurostyle™ ready‑to‑assemble Special Order purchase. THOMASVILLE® NOUVEAU SPEND (before taxes) RECEIVE (on total purchase) Lakefield $2,500 – $4,999 $300 INST8mmANTLY $5,000 – $7,499 $600 INSTANTLY THOMASVILLE® $7,500 – $9,999 $900 INSTANTLY CLASSIC Corina $10,000 – $12,499 $1,200 INSTANTLY $1,600 INSTANTLY $12,500 – $14,999 MARTHA STEWART $15,000 – $19,999 $2,200 INSTANTLY LIVING™ Wainscott $20,000 – $24,999 $3,000¢ INSTANTLY $ 97 $ 58 $25,000 – $29,999 $4,000 INSTANTLY per sq. ft. 97per sq. ft. 2per sq. ft. 3 $30,000 – $39,999 $6,000 INSTANTLY EXCLUSIVE Shaded Oak 3‑1/2" x 3/4" Birch Balsamic EXCLUSIVE ISOCORE 7.5" x 47.6" $40,000 or more $8,000 INSTANTLY Kentucky Oak Plank Flooring Laminate Flooring (1001002827) Hardwood Flooring (1000660651) (1001015598) Sold by 19.8 sq. ft. case. Sold by 20.11 sq. ft. case. Sold by 20.93 sq. ft. case. While quantities last. While quantities last. when purchased and installed See store associate or 15360 BAYVIEW AVENUE, AURORA, ONTARIO 905-726-4500Special Services Desk for details. COUNTERTOPS through Installation Services. Tumbleweed Wasabi Dark Grey Expo
25-pack
Starting at Burled Sonora Starting at Bisque Starting at Blanco City Beach Cream $ $ $ per sq. ft. per sq. ft. ‡ per sq. ft. ‡ installed ‡ installed 59 44 installed 53 ® ® TOPS SELECT SILESTONE COUNTERTOPS SELECT CORIAN COUNTER SELECT GRANITE COUNTERTOPS Offer valid on Tumbleweed, Burled Beach and Sonora Offer valid on Grey Expo and Blanco City colours only. Offer valid on Wasabi Dark and Bisque Cream colours colours only. Limited 10‑year residential transferable Limited 25‑year transferable warranty. only. Limited 15‑year stain resistant warranty. warranty. While quantities last. While quantities last. While quantities last. $ 97 $ 97 $ 48 $ 98 6 9 5WAS $6.48 22 PHILIPS 60W Equivalent LED 25‑Pack Paper Yard Waste Bag‡ CLR® Calcium‑Lime‑Rust EXCLUSIVE/3‑PackIncludes 3" x 10" A19 Light Bulb • Bright White (1000661211) Remover • 828mL (1000147003) Sundaysupply Morning lines Antique Nickel (1000859212); Soft White (1000859450) ‡Available only where permitted to use. Check Floor Registers (1001017961) Daylight (1000826958) your municipal government website for details. 4" x 10" (1001017960)
$ WAS EXCLUSIVE $HAMPTON BAY® WAS $ WAS $ 107$ $ 119Blue Hill 5‑Piece154 Woven Chat Set$169 No189 assembly $209$ 314 required ®498® • Convenient storage table (1000683191) ® ™ 199 ® ™ MOEN Manor Kitchen Faucet EXCLUSIVE AMERICAN EXCLUSIVE MOEN Finley EXCLUSIVE KOHLER Trielle with Matching Side Spray and STANDARD Fairbury™ Pull‑Down Pull‑Down Kitchen Faucet MAKITA® 18VPull‑Down Drill Kitchen Faucet with Soap Dispenser • Chrome fnish Kitchen Faucet • Matte Black • Spot Resist® Stainless Steeland ImpactBonus Driver Soap Dispenser • Vibrant® • 8" centre (1000426031) fnish • Optional deckplate fnish (1000713954) Kit (1000768156)Stainless fnish • Optional deckplate (1000713951) (1000859583)
Get rollinG on your next project
100 lb. ball-bearingB drawer slides A with secure latch retention system More saving.
PROJECT PRICE Side 12 $ 97 burner $ 29 each 97 ® CIL PREMIUM Interior (Includes all accessories shown Flat Paint • 3.7L (1000737146) C and 2 cans of paint) $ $ $ 299 398D 296 ® CHAMBERLAIN® Belt‑Drive EXCLUSIVE 52" HUSKY® 9‑Drawer Mobile ® TRU‑Infrared Char‑Broil Whisper Drive® 1/2 HP Heavy‑Duty Work Centre • 52"W x 18.1"D x 37"H 3 Burner Propane BBQ (1001031414) Garage Door Opener (1000182665) (1001032615) While quantities last. While quantities last.
Valid until Wednesday, April 26, 2017 UP TO $ 8000 F PROJECT PRICE INSTANT SAVINGS $ 97 $ 12 ON ALL SPECIAL ORDER 37 each EXCLUSIVE PREMIUM PLUS® 113 Interior Flat Paint & Primer In EKITCHEN (Includes all accessories shown CABINETS One • 3.79L (1000402548) and 2 cans of paint) Minimum purchase of $2,500. Valid on any single assembled kitchen cabinet or Eurostyle™ Resists dirt and grimeStyle: Transitional ready-to-assemble Special Order purchase. Shown: Special Order KRAFTMAID® tSee page 2 for more details and selection. Thornton Evercore in Dove White Finish
a. EXCLUSIVE 2‑in‑1 3" Wall Scraper (1000816101) $5.87 B. PAINTER’S MATE GREENGET® Masking MORE Tape • 36mm x 55m VALUE IN YOUR INBOX (1000137824) $3.93 DON’T MISS NEXT WEEK’S ONLINE FLYER. Sign up today at homedepot.ca/email C. 5X Premium Small Area Sanding Sponge (1000652141) $3.97 D. DAP® DryDex® Spacklingto receive • 273mL our (1000449412) weekly$3.17 fyer, special offers$ and expert97 know-how. a X_TOR_U:001a R_ONT_N, R_ONT_NRTH_7102, a L_ONT_SW, a:P1:3/16/2017: a _TOR, D_M N, E_OTT, 2/14/2017 PROJECT PRICE E. Alex Flex Premium Molding Sealant (1000788074) $4.27 48 each u Valid Thursday, March 16 to Wednesday, March 22, 2017, unless otherwise noted. F. EXCLUSIVE/6‑Piece PERFORMANCE EXCLUSIVE PREMIUM PLUS 12 $ SELECT GOLD Paint Kit • Professional quality ACCESSORY BUNDLE ULTRA® Interior Matte PRICE = • Shed‑free fabric designed for faster pick‑up Stain‑Blocking Paint & Primer 13 5 and release (1000839582) $15.97 $ 18 In One • 3.79L (1000658402) 37 (Includes all accessories shown and 2 cans of paint)
MARTHA STEWART LIVING™ and the MARTHA STEWART Circle Logo™ are trademarks of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. Copyright © 2017 Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. All rights reserved. tTiered instant savings off our regular prices. Receive an instant discount on any single in‑store purchase of Special Order assembled kitchen cabinets or Eurostyle™ ready‑to‑assemble Special Order kitchen cabinets. Minimum purchase required of $2,500. Offer Find a lower regular not valid on Eurostyle™ Rapid Delivery cabinets or In‑Stock and Special Buy cabinets. Offer excludes countertops, sinks, faucets, kitchen organization, or advertised price... % appliances and cabinet hardware. This discount cannot be applied to purchases under the Cabinet Refacing program. This offer is not valid on the labour component of Installation Services. See page 7 for details.¹ ‡Offer valid on countertops available through Installation Services only. Offers valid on measures we’ll beat it by received and orders placed between March 16 and April 26, 2017. Minimum purchase of 28 sq. ft. required. Offer valid on select colours only. Colour may See page 7 for details. 10 vary slightly from image shown. Includes eased edge profle Type 1. Premium edge profle 2 to 4 at additional cost. Other additional charges may apply. *** 2 Advertised prices are approximate. May not be combined with any other offers. No substitutions. See page 7 for details.¹ a X_TOR_U:002a:P1:3/16/2017: a _TOR, L_ONT_SW, 2/13/2017 Page 2 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 3 Social media should be used to foster “tolerance and acceptance,” says Councillor
By Brock Weir
A community’s diversity is its strength, according to Councillor Wendy Gaertner, and now it is time for Council to put more of its weight behind that sentiment. Next month, Councillor Gaertner is set to introduce a Notice of Motion calling on the Town to use its communications resources and channels to “foster positive conversations” about the “increasingly diverse community of Aurora” and promote events celebrating our differences. Citing events such as June’s Pride Week and September’s Multicultural Celebration set for Ada Johnson Park in September as but two examples, she says all events across York Region that Councillor Wendy Gaertner chats with Inspector Chris Bullen of the York Regional Police at Wednesday’s promote “tolerance and acceptance” Leading Women/Leading Girls ceremony. Auroran photo by Glenn Rodger should be trumpeted to the wider we take that intent and work it into if we would be able to shut down Yonge community. something that would be appropriate to Street for a period of time to incorporate “Aurora is a community that values Aurora. It was a big-metropolitan-centre a parade [smaller than the Canada Day inclusion, acceptance and diversity,” motion and we just couldn’t present it as and Santa Under the Stars parades]. says Councillor Gaertner in her it was. The question for me then became “I am very proud of Aurora. We motion, “and Town Council affirms how can Aurora send a clear message have with York Regional Police raising that diversity is welcome and makes that we honour diversity and how can the Pride flag at Town Hall and having our community stronger. We want to we communicate it? ceremonies inside. York Regional Police send a strong message that we reject “The motion simply comes from a have been the leaders in promoting intolerance based on race, religion, place that we have to honour each other, diversity, perhaps the leaders in Canada, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation and it doesn’t matter if it is sexual so we are very fortunate to have them as [and] respect and acceptance of our orientation, race, or religion. It just felt part of our community and partnering differences are fostered by knowledge right to me that I should put something and understanding.” in celebrating Pride week.” forward that we should honour diversity The idea for a motion of this nature Councillor Gaertner’s motion is not and see what we can do about it.” stems from discussions around the only wheel turning at Town Hall Toronto’s move wasn’t the only the Council table last month when when it comes to inclusion and diversity. catalyst for this Notice of Motion. Jason K. Allan Councillor Sandra Humfryes asked For the past two Wednesdays, Aurora’s Councillor Gaertner says she was also Council to endorse the City of Toronto’s Parks and Recreation Department inspired by the plight of York Region motion reaffirming its status as a hosted roundtables for the public to Pride having to find a new location for Wills and Estate Law “sanctuary city.” While Aurora Council weigh in on what they would like to see their Pride Parade after the Town of members said they didn’t disagree with in the upcoming Multicultural Festival, Family Law Richmond Hill told them changes would the strongly worded sentiment, they got which attracted some significant input have to be made. Real Estate tangled on the details, particularly what from a cross section of Aurora residents Organizers approached Aurora as a the implications might be for Aurora by and organizations. possible venue for the parade, but were simply endorsing Toronto’s stance. “The community is becoming more told existing Aurora polices would have 15393 Yonge Street, “The motion from the City of Toronto diverse and this is about understanding to be looked at in order to see the best fit. Aurora, Ontario L4G 1P1 was very strong and was in the context that, appreciating that, and celebrating “The issue is that we would have to Tel: (905) 726-3188 of a sanctuary city and that is not that,” says Councillor Gaertner. “We do close Yonge Street and there are policies Aurora,” Councillor Gaertner tells The this through education and information Fax: (905) 726-3098 in place about parades,” says Councillor Auroran. “We could not put forward a and it is not a heavy-handed approach. Gaertner. “Because the Pride Parade is motion like that because it just doesn’t Let’s get this on the table. It’s time! Let’s www.jallanlaw.com still relatively small, I am not sure how fit in with our community, so how can we could accommodate it. I am not sure do it.” [email protected]
THANMORE A STUDENT
It’s your child, and their future is waiting to be embraced.
At Holy Trinity School, we move beyond the conventional methods to prepare our students for a successful lifetime of leadership shaped by their strength of character and uncompromising values.
We’re proud of our breathtaking surroundings and magnifi cent campus, but it’s what’s inside that counts. We are a modern, leading-edge school with a forward- thinking faculty that is dedicated to our students and, just as importantly, their families.
Give us two hours and we’ll give you a lifetime in return.
Open House April 5 • 10am-12pm
JK-12 Co-Ed 9 -11 Independent Day School 11300 Bayview Avenue .. ./ Richmond Hill, ON Call HTS Admissions at 905-737-1115 to learn more. Page 4 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 5 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Machell’s Corners “Spring Out” for the eighth year of Studio Tour The Aurora Artist Studio Tour of 2017 features 14 artists in six studio locations throughout Aurora. This year we chose the season of spring with new beginnings to allow you, the public to view these artist’s new works on Saturday and Sunday, April 8 and 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come visit each studio and buy incredible original works of art from acrylics, oils, photography, sculpture and eco-found objects. The artists participating this year are: Katie Argyle, Carol Beaver, Shirley Binns, Judy Bobsin, Karen L. Bowen, Margarete Brunner, Ralph Brunner, Deborah Campo, Claire D’Aurore, Philippa Hajdu, Dianne Hughes, Willo Rodrigues, Campbell Sampson and Christine Valentini. You can get a sneak peek of these artists’ works celebrating Canada’s 150th at the exhibit “Canadian Art in the Cabinet” from Friday, March 31 to Monday, April 10 at the Aurora Cultural Centre (22 Church Street). Also mark on your calendar “Art In The Park” on Saturday, July 8, at Town Park for Kerry’s Place Appreciation D a y. Coordinator of Artists for this event The Noble Shift Deborah Campo and AST Artists will be Every once in a while we get calls whether or not they have any bearing at on display. Our Canadian diversity of at our office looking for the R&R Book all on Aurora, and regardless of frivolity. various heritages continues when these Bar, the former new and used bookstore In the end, I was disappointed that same Aurora Studio Tour artists finish established by Auroran founder Ron was not the case as Council got bogged out the year with “Art At The Manor” Wallace and Rosemary Schumaker, down in the minutia, pondering just from November 16, 2017 to January 27, which used to operate in tandem with what impacts endorsing Toronto’s 2018 at Hillary House National Historic the newspaper. status as a sanctuary city would have Site (15372 Yonge Street). An Exhibit With the bookshop long-since-wound- on Aurora and, God forbid, questioning Reception will be held Thursday, down, the answer is usually a resounding BROCK’S the wisdom of giving a thumbs-up to a November 15 from 7 – 9 p.m. “no” when a potential customer calls to BANTER motion some could see as reactionary We are Canadian Proud. see if we have a particular Tom Clancy Brock Weir and “anti-Trump.” Happy 150th, Canada! or “Jacqueline Susann’s latest,” which And, so it was. Now, next month For more information visit www. always struck me as an interesting lawmakers will consider a motion from aurorastudiotour.com or contact me at request since the Valley of the Dolls of 1965, they would be hard pressed to Councillor Gaertner that is a well- 905-727-1447. author died in 1974. believe some of the changes that have intentioned – although considerably Deborah Campo Founder, Aurora Artists Studio Tour Sometimes, however, requests prove taken place. One such case – as Scott defanged – stop gap. to be more interesting when callers have notes this week – might be that their It affirms that Aurora is a community Head Into the Woods with a backstory. brand-new state-of-the-art library would that welcomes diversity, recognizes the Take Friday, for instance. soon be meeting a wrecking ball, having strength that comes out of diversity, and Queensville Players I received a call asking whether we outlived its usefulness, becoming an that we’re a community that “rejects had any further copies of Elizabeth increasingly dilapidated relic of the intolerance based on race, religion, Has this past week’s frigid reminder Hearn Milner’s “Aurora 1945 – 1965: past. ethnicity and sexual orientation.” of winter gotten you down? Would you An Ontario Town at a Time of Great It would be mind-blowing to stand The intent of the motion is noble, and like a warm and colourful glimpse of Change.” by the GO tracks and look towards it is just one stitch in a larger tapestry verdant woods and sunnier climes? You As the title suggests, the 2007 volume the bustling metropolis heading east. that is being woven right before our eyes. need go no further than the venue of charts the postwar history of Aurora They probably wouldn’t be able to As Aurora continues to grapple with a superlative piece of musical theatre from the long wait for peace to laying the comprehend that their Regency Acres the future of Library Square, Downtown from the Queensville Players entitled foundations of the Aurora Community bungalow, perhaps once a starter home, Revitalization, and how to make sure all “Into the Woods”, and opening in Centre, a project for Canada’s was now be subject to bidding wars with resources are present and accounted for the lush surroundings of Madsen’s Centennial. potential homeowners snagging them as it reaches build out, there is a subtle Greenhouses in Newmarket on Friday, Happily, I was able to direct my caller for upwards of $1 million. shift in focus towards looking at the kind March 24. to a place likely to have a few volumes on Then, of course, there is the political of town Aurora wants to be. This dazzling show is set amidst the shelf – the Aurora Historical Society side of things. We have new bylaws ensuring street a woodland bliss, brimful of plants – but, as she spoke, I realised she had a There once was a time where the very front signage for local businesses and flowers and a thousand twinkling very personal reason for wanting the idea of a “sanctuary city” would have is at least 50 per cent in one of two lights. “Into the Woods” is a time- book. Her grandfather, she explained, been inconceivable – both in intent, and Canada’s official languages, motions honoured classic with music and was James Murray, who served as in the fact there is a need for such a body like Councillor Gaertner’s, and public lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and James Aurora’s mayor from 1957 to 1960. to even exist. Yet, that is the world we meetings to gather as wide a cross- Lapine. She spoke vividly of memories from live in. section of input as possible ensuring It is an adult tale, but with a visiting her family here, of the Town Many of you will recall a brief debate this year’s Multicultural Festival ticks tantalizing array of fairy-tale itself, of the Queen’s Hotel, which once which happened around the Council all the right boxes. characters whose usually predictable stood on the northeast corner of Yonge table at the end of January after the In cases like these, I often wonder how personas are constantly mitigated by and Wellington on the current side of City of Toronto reaffirmed its status as a the actions of today will be interpreted unexpected tribulations and an often TD Canada Trust, and the IGA grocery sanctuary city rejecting “discrimination by the people of tomorrow. uproarious humour. Amongst others, store in behind it. based on religious, ethnic, or national In her latest book, An Aurora ABC: we see Cinderella and Rapunzel, and On her visits, just about everything origin, affirms that refugees areStories from Aurora’s Forgotten past, their respective princes, Little Red east of the tracks was farmland, she welcome in our communities, and local historian Jacqueline Stuart tells Riding Hood and Jack of beanstalk lore. recalled, and, of course, there was no [Council] stands united with cities the story of an Asian laundryman There is a witch and a giant and a Highway 404 to speak of. around the world against Islamophobia, in turn-of-the-century Aurora and to baker and his wife. Each character It is a lost world, but still very much in xenophobia and racism, and calls on what degree he was accepted by the has their own wishes and dreams, and the minds of many. Canadians, community leaders, and community. Then, of course, there each must go through a personal and In some ways, if she hadn’t been back elected officials to speak out against are the plights of countless nameless fascinating journey into the woods to to Aurora since the time her grandfather racial discrimination and hate in our Aurorans whose stories will inevitably discover that the rose-coloured dreams served on Council, there would some communities, across the country and be left untold; individuals who went they covet do not have the outcome they easily recognizable landmarks. Aside around the world.” about their daily business effectively craved. from the banks on the northern corners, Although people debate the merits and efficiently, but bristling under the Laugh out loud escapades abound as Yonge and Wellington hasn’t changed of a “sanctuary city” both within and collar feeling unable to practice their these endearing characters stumble on all that much, nor have the homes in outside of these pages, I think most own religion, love who they truly loved, their paths, and haplessly intermingle the immediate vicinity. But anything people here in Aurora would agree with or live the way they truly wanted to live, to form poignant friendships and find further east? Well, that would have been the firm stance against these “phobias” for fear of going against the grain. new insights together into their own inconceivable. and “isms” of every variety, and stand They are concepts that will, one desires. Hearn Milner characterizes the united against racial discrimination hopes, be increasingly difficult for future The songs in this production are Aurora of 1945-1965 as “An Ontario and hate. generations to comprehend, and these catchy and energetic, and the singing Town at a Time of Great Change, but I Brought to the attention of local stitches will go a long way in achieving talent of the cast does phenomenal think that title could also be applied to a lawmakers by Councillor Humfryes, who this goal, as long as they are embraced justice to an intricate and challenging future historian’s look at the Aurora of called on Council to endorse it, I thought and fostered by the community. score. 2017 and beyond. it was going to be a slam dunk. After We have the building blocks and, Musical and art direction is If anyone happened to have stepped all, Aurora routinely endorses motions collectively, we have the power to write superlative, and our community is out of the Aurora experience at the end the next chapter. Continued on page 12 sent to them from other municipalities,
EDITOR ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER EDITORIAL POLICY Brock Weir Doug Sherritt Cynthia Proctor Opinions expressed by columnists, contributors THE AURORAN [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] and letter writers are not necessarily those of The Aurora’s Community Newspaper Auroran. Letters must include name and phone number, ADVERTISING CLASSIFIEDS PHOTOGRAPHY although number will not be published, and be limited The Auroran Newspaper Company Ltd. Diane Buchanan 905-727-3300 ex.102 Glenn Rodger to 600 words. Letters may be edited or refused. All 15213 Yonge Street, Suite 8 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] contents protected by copyright. Main number 905-727-3300 • Fax number 905-727-2620 ADVERTISING MOTORING ADVERTISING POLICY Zach Shoub Heather Erwin Publisher is not liable for slight changes or Founder Publisher Emeritus [email protected] [email protected] Ron Wallace Rosemary Schumaker typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an
advertisement. Disputes must be brought to the TODAYS NEW HOMES Subscriptions available within Canada and U.S. attention of the publisher prior to the following edition. email: [email protected] Zach Shoub To submit a letter to the editor, please send your email to [email protected]. [email protected] Deadline for submissions is Sunday at 1 p.m. Page 4 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 5
The Aurora Museum & Archives is celebrating: St. Patrick’s Day! (Friday, March 17) This postcard, simply signed St. Patrick on POLITICS the reverse, was sent from Toronto to AS USUAL Master Chester Osborne. Alison Collins-Mrakas All press is good press? I understand that some candidates may not have access to the funds necessary to hire good message managers. When you Leading Women/Leading Girls Recognition Awards aren’t yet the nominated candidate – and March 8 was International Women’s was plagued with issues: brownouts, sometimes even when you are – campaign Day and I was honoured to recognize blackouts and dirty coal plants that funds are pretty tight, so volunteers are 23 outstanding women and girls from were a danger to our health, our usually relied upon to do virtually all Newmarket and Aurora at my third environment and our economy. The manner of campaign tasks from manning annual Leading Women, Leading Girls province fixed these issues by closing phone banks to hammering in lawn signs Building Communities Awards. all of Ontario’s coal plants, building to drafting speeches and speaking notes. This provincial honour thousands of kilometers of new There are many, many candidates out acknowledges and celebrates women transmission lines and investing in there that have access to folks with pretty and girls who demonstrate exceptional renewable energy. Ontario now has a decent skills who will offer their time and leadership in working to improve the View From clean, reliable system that is going to talents for free to the right candidate. One lives of others in their communities. Queen’s Park benefit many generations to come. In doesn’t have to be a professional to have the chops to do the job. This year’s recipients have encouraged Chris Ballard, MPP many ways, financing our improved women and girls to get involved in non- Newmarket-Aurora electrical system is similar to how That being said, there are also many traditional careers. municipalities finance large projects folks out there that most decidedly do not They are championing and once the plant is in full production like hockey rinks and community have the skill set, the abilities, nay, even the promoting issues such as equality, this will increase to 150 full-time centres – we don’t expect local folk tiniest tidbit of capability to be involved diversity and healthy, and equal Associates. The plant will produce to pay all the costs of a new centre in, let alone take charge of the message relationships. They raise awareness about 7.5 million Maltesers per day, when it will be enjoyed for 30 or 40 management of a serious political in the prevention of violence against or over 2.5 billion per year. At the years. Indeed, municipalities ask that candidate for office. women and girls and help in reducing launch, we were told Mars Canada all residents – current and future – That truth was laid bare recently in the racism and discrimination. makes enough Maltesers to fill an pay their fair share by financing the now savagely mocked video put out by a These women and girls encourage average-sized pool each day. That’s a capital costs over many years. This “leading” candidate for the Conservative other to participate in public service lot of yummy. Maltesers were created change to how we are financing the leadership, Kellie Leitch. and act as positive role models through in the United Kingdom back in 1937 provinces electrical upgrade is the I saw a link to Ms. Leitch’s campaign mentoring, coaching and volunteering. and will soon be introduced to the right thing to do for the province and video in a FB feed. This year we recognized teachers, United States. About 80 per cent of the the fair thing to do for our families – I knew it would probably be something volunteers, business owners, students Newmarket production is expected to today and tomorrow. risible (she seems to have a penchant for and York Regional Police Officers. head south. Strong economy saying inflammatory things these days) Congratulations to Angel Freedman, Shoshinkan Martial Arts Statistics Canada just reported on but I decided to watch it anyway as, well, I Phyllis Morris, Suzanne Whitehurst, This past week I had the honour of Ontario’s latest numbers – and they will watch anything to do with politics, so Juliana Playter, Laurie Mueller, attending a martial arts demonstration are good! In February, Ontario added why pretend otherwise. Marsha Fox, Elaine Adam, Edna to celebrate Hokama Sensei. Hokama, 4,600 jobs, which brings the number So, I clicked on the link, opened the video Bozhori, Jan Freedman, Alex Karolyi, is a tenth Dan Gojuryu Karatedo of new jobs created in Ontario to and then proceeded to sit there positively Laura Bradford, Shaylyn Benaissa, Hanshi, it is not very often, if ever, that almost 700,000 since the devastating gobsmacked by what I was watching. Nadia Gaurino, Taylor Piotrowski, Lisa the Town of Aurora is graced with the recession of 2008. This is the 23rd It was simply horrendous. No. I don’t Walters, Catherine Capek, Maimoona presence of one of the highest ranking straight month Ontario has beat the think horrendous truly covers it. How Ashraf, Gloria Reszler, Tanin Monzavi, karate masters. Sensei is a researcher, Canadian average. While the economy about bizarrely horrendous? Robyn Kassam, Rebecca Boyd, Karian a historian, an author, and a master in the rest of Canada continues to It was like watching a car wreck: you Guimond and Rola Issa. Thank you of karate and koudo. He has a resume struggle, Ontario’s economy has been want to avert your eyes lest you see any to local business leader Vivian Risi that few in the world will hold and he strengthening, as new companies more of the horror, but you cannot not as for emceeing the event. Watch for our exemplifies what it means to be leader. choose to locate here and existing ones your morbid curiosity simply won’t let nomination call next October. Congratulations to Steve Armes of expand (the Mars Canada expansion you. Mars Canada Shoshinkan Martial Arts on your well is an example). Once again, Ontario is I am not being mean. I am being politely Chocolate lovers celebrate! Mars attended event. this country’s economic powerhouse. honest. Canada is now manufacturing the Ontario’s Fair Hydro Plan In fact we’re leading all G7 countries, As message management goes, the iconic Maltesers at its plant in Recently the government of Ontario which includes France, Germany, video is a complete and utter failure. Newmarket. Mars Canada invested announced its plan to lower residential Italy, Japan, United Kingdom and the From the truly weird pausing between $70 million in a 60,000 square foot hydro bills by an average of 25 per United States of America. sentences, while she looks off into the expansion to produce and package cent starting this summer. This is distance, then returning her gaze to the Maltesers. This expansion is fantastic good news for residents in Aurora and As always, I invite you to contact me camera in a sideways glance as if to say, news for Newmarket-Aurora. The Newmarket. You will see a significant on any issue. Please call my community “Get a load of what I am saying…” To the expansion of the Newmarket facility reduction in hydro rates and, in office at 905-750-0019, or visit my website stilted delivery of some truly awful throw has created 30 new, full-time, highly addition, your bill won’t increase at www.ChrisBallardMPP.ca. My email away lines. To the nausea-inducing camera skilled jobs. Currently, the facility is beyond inflation for at least four years. is: [email protected]. work (panning in and out, side-to-side…). home to 140 full-time Associates and For too long our energy system I look forward to hearing from you. From start to finish it is just terrible. And what’s worse? It’s long. Very long. Over eight minutes long; which, given Birthday Town what is being said, and how it’s being said, it seems interminably long. Online videos As Brock suggested in his column did when we were kids playing street – especially campaign videos – should be last week, the Town has been a bit tardy hockey, participating bands, vendors short. Max two minutes. If you can get it in preparing for Canada’s upcoming and party goers could just yell “car!” under a minute, even better. 150th birthday. every ten minutes when a lone vehicle People have short attention spans. You We have lots of ideas: a military passes through. need to get your message across succinctly tattoo, an indigenous peoples ceremony, If cash is a problem when it comes – and quickly. Or folks will simply “change fireworks, a big parade, repainting time to celebrate our 175th, we could the channel. To expect that folks will sit the mural at Yonge and Wellington to always go with the less expensive option through an eight minute long one-note depict former Town councillors. of renaming something. For example, message, replete with awkward pauses Okay, so maybe that last one hasn’t INSIDE Diamond Jubilee Park used to be called and dead air, is misguided at best. been raised yet. But there are many Civic Square Park. As political strategies go, I am not sure suggestions. AURORA It doesn’t even have to be a location what the intent of the video was. It clearly Scott Johnston In fact, we could literally have with a formal name. After all, wasn’t about getting her message out anything money could buy. If only Municipal Way was once just the Town because it’s doubtful that anyone bothered late 1900s. Sadly, adding a few planters we’d thought to set aside money to Hall parking lot. to actually listen to it. It was too long and and banners has done little so slow the pay for any of this, instead of going But if there is funding (and yes, we too weird to accomplish that. Maybe it exodus of businesses to Bayview. to the Federal government at the last should start saving now), an obvious was designed to get folks to talk about Petch House? It took over a decade minute along with hundreds of other idea is a memorial project. her? If that was the goal, then mission to agree on where and how to rebuild municipalities with a cup with “please In 1967 for Canada’s 100th birthday, accomplished. it. Unfortunately, the decision didn’t give” scrawled on it. we built a library. This year for our Perhaps it was simply a case of, all press include the most important part: what In any case, despite much discussion, 150th, we’ll tear it down as part of the is good press. Not sure I agree that axiom to do with it. Give us another ten with time running out to get things Library Square redevelopment (I know; applies in this case. But we shall see. lined up, there’s a bit of a scramble. years and we’re bound it figure out you can’t make this stuff up, and I guess This shouldn’t really come as a a permanent use for it. Well, twenty we’d better think of a more appropriate big surprise. After all, Aurora is well years, tops. name for “Library Square”). THIS WEEK’S known as the Procrastination Capital Which got me thinking, based on our To maintain this tradition, in 2042 NEW POLL of Canada. I’m sure that wording will Town’s aversion to making decisions at it’s likely that we’ll be planning to be added to the signs on our borders... a rate any faster than glacial speed, we bulldoze whatever we put up this year. Should the owners of vacant when they get around to it. really need to start thinking now about So we might as well start thinking of homes pay higher property taxes? what to do for Canada’s 175th birthday. There have been a number of something appropriate to replace it. Yes No Unsure So to get things rolling, here are a few examples over the years of the Town’s Perhaps a Memorial to Procrastination. Go to www.theauroran.com to vote! aversion to prompt decision making. ideas for our demisemiseptcentennial. Even that we should be able to pull Library Square? Discussions have Nothing says “birthday” like a together in time, but we will need to Previous Poll Results Should the York Region District School Board take another look on only been underway since the last “party.” We could hold it on Yonge start planning now, or else it’ll have to closing Dr. G.W. Williams for a new high school in East Aurora? century. But we’re almost to a decision. Street. Since there will probably be go on the bicentennial anniversary idea Definitely before the twenty-second no businesses left along there by then, list. A YES B NO UNSURE century. traffic should be minimally impacted. In fact, we may not even need to 39% 57% 4% Yonge Street redevelopment? Feel free to e-mail Scott at: 2017 March 14, 59% TO DATE TO RESULTS RESULTS TO DATE TO Another one that dates back to the formally close the road. Just like we [email protected] RESULTS Page 6 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 7 Town makes first move on repealing tax break for vacant landlords By Brock Weir from the Region of York, Councillors fellow Council members. “If you don’t, landlords, he said many of them are said while it is not a magic bullet in you should be in support of asking to most concerned with finding a stable, A property tax rebate on vacant solving the growing number of vacant repeal this tax rebate. I have talked long-term tenant and not a short-term properties could encourage some storefronts in Aurora, it could be a not only to our own MPP, but other solution. landlords to keep their buildings contributing factor. MPPs and they have made me aware “I support the concept, but I can’t empty, argue Councillors, but now In his motion, Councillor Mrakas that the Minister pretty much will support it without getting some initial that the Province has opened the door said the 2016 Ontario Budget gave be favourable if we ask to repeal this information from staff.” to change, Aurora has taken the first municipalities a degree of flexibility rebate. It is important to us that if we Despite what some felt was a lack of step in making this program one for on vacant unit taxes to reflect don’t believe this tax rate should be information, the motion went ahead. the history books. community needs and circumstances allowed, that we should stand up and Referencing a similar notice of Council has voted in favour of and unoccupied retail “is not good for say that we are looking to repeal this motion he made last year on increasing taking the initial steps in repealing the overall health of the municipality.” and say it strongly and unanimously.” the taxes on vacant lots incrementally rebates on vacant units following a “At the end of the day, I think it is According to Town Treasurer Dan to “discourage” landowners from notice of motion from Councillor Tom a simple question to each and every Elliott, as things stand now, if you own keeping them empty, Councillor John Mrakas. one of you: Do you believe that we an industrial or commercial property Abel said that if he realised in his Although this is just a first step should be allowing this tax rebate to standing vacant, you can get a 30 per first term of Council that the rebate as it will also require involvement continue, or do you not?” he told his cent rebate on your property taxes if program was in place to reduce the you can meet certain criteria, most burden on landlords, he would have importantly proving that the unit is been “infuriated.” available to lease and actively on the “You can say I am sold on the idea market. to do anything incentive-wise to get “My understanding of how all this something forward,” he said. came about was, at the time when this Added Councillor Harold Kim: was introduced, there was a need to “This is not a simple cause and effect help commercial property owners and solution. Part of the rationale was to Hair Color service was a reflection of the marketplace,” incent landowners to use the rebate to TOP Highlights said Councillor Michael Thompson. improve upon the property to bring TORONTO Ombré “That has since changed. It is really tenants in and bring it back up to STYLIST Balayage hard to know what impact this capacity. The process brought with it with 18 years’ Fusion Hair Extentsions has in terms of the leasing of the unintended consequences.” experience! Keratin Treatment space. Sure, it does put a little bit of For other Councillors supportive pressure, but there are times when of the motion, it was a question of Unlimited Blow Dry $ or curls for the month 99 there are partial vacancies and they whether or not the motion went far are really just passing on those costs enough. NEW CLIENTS RECEIVE 50% OFF! to other tenants. They are picking up Councillor Paul Pirri, for instance, (with regular priced cut) the property tax costs of the owner of questioned whether a similar track CALL TO BOOK FREE CONSULTATION the property, so I still think there is could be followed on the residential Featuring: value in pursing this but I would have side of things, increasing the tax levy EYEBROW liked to have seen more information.” on the owners of vacant homes. MICROBLADING now just $488 (regular $800) Councillor Thompson was not Although Mr. Elliott said it was the only Council member looking an “interesting” suggestion from a HOURS MON 10-3 TUES TO FRI 10-7 SAT 9-5 SUN 9-3 | | | for more information. So too was policy perspective, the framework is Cell phone: 416-602-1953 | Salon number: 905-503-8600 Mayor Geoff Dawe who said there not available to municipalities from 126 Wellington St W #110, Aurora, ON L4G 2N9 are some situations where landlords the Province. Victoria’s glam & Beauty Lounge _glamandbeauty | FREE WIFI are dealing with tenants who have “A lot of people are buying bolted. Additionally, in talks with residential properties nowadays as a business to rent them out,” countered Councillor Mrakas. “Should it not be equally afforded to them that if they can’t rent out for a period of time that we allow them to get a tax rebate as well? They’re a business, at the end of the day. The policy should be fair for every taxpayer.”
HAVE YOUR SAY – Should the owners of vacant homes in Aurora face a higher tax burden until they are occupied? Send your thoughts to [email protected].
Stevens founded Progressive Canadian party after Conservative merger
From page 2 refused to sign his nomination papers and he left Parliament. There was vindication in 2004 when a Federal Court judge overturned the inquiry report. The Progressive Conservatives merged with the Canadian Alliance in 2003 to form the Conservative Party of Canada. Mr. Stevens was never a fan of that arrangement, nor did he have much use for the new Conservative Leader Stephen Harper. He expressed satisfaction when the Conservatives were defeated by the Justin Trudeau Liberals in 2015. “I think it was good to get rid of Harper,” Mr. Stevens said in an interview a couple of days after the election. “He’s very right wing.” “He brought in a lot of things that will have to be undone,” he added. Mr. Stevens was affiliated with the Progressive Canadian Party, which formed after the merger, eventually becoming its president. “He was always active and interested in politics,” Mrs. Stevens said. Dorian Baxter, who has carried the Progressive Canadian banner in several Newmarket-Aurora elections, and elsewhere, said Stevens’ death was “a great loss.” “It is a great loss for our Progressive Canadian party, but an even greater loss for the Canadian political scene in general,” said Baxter, one of the Progressive Canadian’s highest-profile candidates, who will be representing the party in next month’s by-election in Markham-Thornhill. “However, in his departure, he has left us with great inspiration in this 150th anniversary of Confederation under Sir John A. Macdonald.”
With files from Brock Weir Page 6 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 7 Page 8 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 9 Exhibition salutes the family side of two community leaders By Brock Weir Sports Hall of Fame and wanted to know more about these familiar names behind Have you ever passed by Ada Johnson the landmarks? Park or strolled through the Norm Now is your chance to do just that at Johnson Hall of Education at the Aurora the Aurora Cultural Centre as Ada and Norm’s grandson Bruce Johnson and granddaughter-in-law Lisa piece together artefacts from their family’s history to tell a very Aurora story. Chances are, you already know a bit of the story. If you’re an Aurora graduate of a certain age, you might have had Norm as your high school principal or coach. If you came to Aurora as a new Canadian, you might have met Ada in your ESL program. Or, if you’re on the younger end of the spectrum, you might have known Ada as Aurora’s longest-ever resident, The lives of Ada Johnson, Aurora’s longest-lived who died in April 2013 just a few months citizen, and her husband Norman are showcased shy of her 110th birthday. at the Aurora Cultural Centre through an exhibit curated by grandson Bruce and his wife Lisa. But there is much more to the story, Auroran photo by Brock Weir DAMIR VRANCIC Bruce and Lisa attest. “Ada grew up here and was very active LAW OFFICE in the community,” says Bruce of his a significant impact on the community. BUSINESS LAW, grandmother, who arrived in Aurora as after Connaught Street at the age of 99, Graduating from the University of REAL ESTATE, an infant, moving to her grandfather’s she moved into Park Place Manor. It is an Toronto with an engineering degree, he WILLS & ESTATES farm upon the death of her father, which incredible story to have spent that much found he could only get a job at about 75 stood just north of Yonge and Wellington. time in one community. I know she loved cents an hour. Jobs that could be had after 905-841-6411 “She had 110 Christmases, and 109 of it, and it is nice to have the opportunity a stint at teacher’s college seemed to be them were in Aurora, all within a 1 to show the history of Aurora’s longest- the more lucrative option and he went km radius because she lived on her living citizen.” Providing valued and trusted down that road. Grandfather Robson’s farm, moved onto Although he didn’t live to as grand legal advice since 1983 After receiving his teaching degree, he Connaught Street when she married, and an age as his wife, Norm Johnson left had three options, says Bruce, but chose a position at the former Aurora High School – now Williams – when it was on Wells Street because it was close to his home in Snowball and closer to his sweetheart in Aurora. A veteran of both the First and Second World Wars, he was also a varsity athlete, skills which served him well as he took on coaching duties for various sports teams at the local high school, where he served as principal for five years. “He gave a lot more back than he ever took out of the community, and I think he is one of the great founders of this community,” says Bruce. Together, they were a dynamic Private Funds for Any Reason duo, becoming active members of the Private 1st Mortgages community and providing a safe harbour Monthly Payments for every $100,000 for what would now be described as “at MORTGAGES risk” youth who attended the high school. It was with a great deal of pride that Up to 65% LTV @ 5.99% = $499.17 Bruce and Lisa embarked on this journey Up to 70% LTV @ 6.49% = $540.83 through their own family history in Up to 75% LTV @ 6.99% = $582.50 putting together this exhibition, which runs through the end of the month. They Up to 80% LTV @ 7.49% = $624.17 already had a good baseline from a small book Ada wrote for her family at the age 2.69% of 99 sharing her memories of what it was Private 2nd Mortgages like to grow up in Aurora. Monthly Payments5 Yr Fixedfor every $100,000 She told of Aurora’s dirt roads, its boardwalk sidewalks, and being able to Up to 65% LTV @ 8.99% = $749.17 walk her cow down Yonge Street and tying it up at Tannery Creek for the day Up to 70% LTV @ 9.99% = $832.50 while she ran home to do her chores. Up to 75% LTV @ 10.99% = $915.83 It also gave Bruce the opportunity 2.20% to marvel at how interconnected the Up to 80% LTV @ 11.99% = $999.17 paternal and maternal sides of his family are. 5 Yr Variable Case in point, Ada planned to give birth Interest only payments to her son Dave – Bruce’s father – at home. No Income Verification Required They had all the birthing linens ready to No Credit Check Required go, but Dave was in breach position and Appraisals not always needed had to be delivered at the hospital. The PrivateRush ClosingsMortgages OK unused linens were leant to the Knowles Pricing for GTA only family and were ultimately used in the Brokers Welcome birth of David’s mother – and the father of this young girl was ultimately the man from 5.99%CALL TODAY Norm Johnson succeeded as principal. “My parents basically knew each 11297590_2116 other from birth, but going through Verico The Mortgage Leaders Inc. 1-877-777-7308 FSCO License # 10238 public school they pretended they hated [email protected] each other,” says Bruce with a laugh. “Eventually when my father was in university, he needed a nice girl to take to a concert that was being held at Eaton Hall. He asked my mother and they were sweethearts from then on.” And thus, Bruce is here – along with 1-877-777-7308 Lisa, who now gives back to Ada’s long- time home as an active volunteer at Park Place Manor – to tell the tale. “My favourite Ada Johnson saying came when she would try to convince us Broker to have an extra piece of pie for dessert Peter Menicucci, and she would say, ‘It’s a poor skin that VERICO Th e Mortgage Leaders Inc. won’t stretch a bit,’” says Bruce. [email protected] Adds Lisa: “Whenever you would step inside that house on Connaught, it just had this calming influence. Whenever I was down, I would visit her and I would always come away feeling great.” “Whenever something important in life License # 10238, o.a.c. rates subject to change was happening, whether it was a test at school or something important for work, she would say, ‘Give me a call and I will concentrate for you.’ She would send her prayers and positive vibes towards you. A lot of people in this world have done better in life because of Ada’s concentration and positive vibes.” C
A
N N
A W D O A T ’S Y BIRTHDA Page 8 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 9
150 SPORTS Vol. 17 No. 21 905-727-3300 theauroran.com FREE Week of March 16, 2017
Tigers still alive in OMHA finals North Dufferin Baseball
By Jake Courtepatte by a score of 3 – 1 on the road Saturday League hands out awards before tying 3 – 3 in front of a home Two AMHA teams are still looking crowd at the ACC on Sunday. to bring an OMHA title back to Aurora. The series returns to Oakville for Both the Novice AA and PeeWee A Game Three on Tuesday following Tigers are clashing in the all-Ontario press time, while Game Four can be championships, each in action at viewed at the ACC Sunday at 3:45p.m. home over the weekend. While a handful of Tigers squads With only two losses combined continue to battle in the local York- in their first three series against Simcoe League semifinal, four have Richmond Hill, Newmarket, and already booked their tickets to the Barrie, the Novice Tigers met the League’s big dance. The Minor Atom unbeaten Guelph Gryphons on the AAs await the winner between road Saturday to open their first-to- Markham Waxers and Newmarket six-points series. Redmen in their respective York- They were the first team able to Simcoe final, after taking down the break the Gryphons, winning by a Stars in four games, while the Minor score of 3 – 1, before falling in a down- Bantam As will face the NobleKing to-the-wire Game Two at the Aurora Knights after sweeping Bradford. Community Centre 2 – 1 on Sunday. The Minor Bantam AE final will see Game Three goes this Saturday the Tigers face the Barrie Colts, with back in Guelph, before game four the Tigers riding a five game winning Aurora’s Brad Crosby was awarded for Best On-Base Percentage in the 2016 North Dufferin Baseball League season at their annual awards banquet on Sunday. returns to the ACC Sunday at 2:15p.m. streak. Auroran photo by Jake Courtepatte The PeeWee As have had a The Bantam As are sitting on a six By Jake Courtepatte applauded for their championship tumultuous run to the finals, coming game streak after sweeping the East victory, their second in a row after out on top in two tough series with the Gwillimbury Eagles, and will face the With the 2017 baseball season on the taking down the Ivy Leafs. Barrie Jr. Colts and Whitby Wildcats. Orillia Terriers in the championship. horizon, the region’s AA league lauded League business was taken care They met the Oakville Rangers in a Schedules can be found at www. the best of 2016 in their annual awards of at the annual general meeting home-and-home to open their series auroraminorhockey.ca. banquet on Sunday. that followed the ceremony, with the over the weekend, dropping game one Held in Lisle, Michael Gemmiti of decision being made to expand the the Bolton Dodgers was the big winner, senior division to sixteen teams from taking home Most Sportsmanlike, Best fourteen the previous year. The teams’ Batter, and the ultimate honour of the locations and names are yet to be evening, League MVP. announced. Gemmiti, a longtime veteran with The season will also be lengthened, the Bolton club, finished last season from 26 to a 30-game schedule. with an impressive .494 batting The junior league will remain the percentage. His 38 hits were also good same with the four teams playing for tops in the league, while his on-base eighteen games. percentage fell below only Aurora’s Official schedules will be released in Brad Crosby. early April, though the season is set to His Most Sportsmanlike trophy was begin the first week of May. his second earned in a row. They will be found at www.ndbl.ca. Crosby, a veteran batter, fielder, and Aurora was bounced last season pitcher for the Jays, was at the top or from postseason contention by the near it in every offensive category for Knights, who had one of the most the Aurora squad last season. His on- dominating performances in the base percentage of .655 was matched senior league in years. Following a by a batting percentage of .455, while three-game sweep of the Midland playing in all but two of Aurora’s Indians, Aurora fell in four games to games. the Knights, their second year in a Best Pitcher went to Brad Grieveson row falling in the semifinal series after of the Ivy Leafs, who went a perfect 8 making the championship in 2014. – 0 in the starting position last season. Despite putting up a contending His 67 strikeouts were good for second team each year, the Jays are still in in the league, while his earned-run search of their first Strother Cup, with average was far and away the best of either the Leafs, Knights, or Bolton The Novice AA Tigers are one of two Aurora teams battling in the OMHA finals. the bunch. Brewers winning each of the last eight The New Lowell Knights were also Auroran photo by Jake Courtepatte years. Minor Midget Express in tough to repeat OHL Cup title
By Jake Courtepatte of Central Scouting in an email. “These are the players that are right on the cusp In Minor Midget hockey, the Triple of the OHL draft, and it’s the biggest Crown is the highest achievement: moment of their hockey careers so far.” a Silver Stick title, an OMHA York-Simcoe earned a trip to the championship, and an OHL Cup. OMHA finals in February following While this year’s crop of York- a 3 – 0 series sweep of the Markham Simcoe Express talent will not be able Waxers in the semifinal series, before to accomplish the feat done by their falling in three games to the Quinte Red predecessors one year ago, they still Devils. have the opportunity to capture their The team went 44-19-3 in the AAA second straight OMHL Cup this week. regular season. Twenty clubs from across Ontario They kick off the tournament will be competing in the tournament, in Tuesday following press time, taking what is the final test for many players on the Mississauga Senators. before their Junior eligibility. The Express won their second OHL “It’s a huge opportunity for our Cup in the franchise’s history in 2016, teams to get a final look at who can play last accomplished in 2004. In front of at the next level,” said Darrell Woodley, a nationwide audience, they put up The York Simcoe Express captured their second OHL Cup ever in 2016 and will look for another this week Auroran Sports Basebar 2017_Layout 1 2017-01-10 11:31 AM Page 1 in Toronto. Photo by YSE Hockey the Ontario Hockey League’s Director Continued on page 15
Caring for Our Community
newroads.ca Page 10 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 11 SAC takes home fifth straight league title
By Jake Courtepatte The junior varsity Saints followed suit the same day, winning the division For the past half decade, the St. 1B championship over Villanova Andrew’s Saints have been the top team College 6 – 2. They entered the finals in prep school hockey. on the back of a 10 – 1 win over Upper The varsity Saints won their fifth Canada in the semis. straight Canadian Independent School As is yearly tradition, the varsity Athletic Association title last week, in squad followed up by hosting the front of a home crowd in a winner-take- National Independent School all game three against Upper Canada Invitational Championship over the College at LaBrier Arena. weekend, entering as the top seed. Lucas Thorne scored twice in the 3 – The defending champion Saints put 1 win, adding an empty netter with just up a trio of wins, twice over league five seconds to go as well as opening the rival St. Michael’s College and once scoring on the powerplay in the first. over Quebec’s Academie Saint-Louis, The Blues tied it up just a few minutes before falling 3 – 2 to Bishops College after the opening goal, while Corey School in the tournament semifinal. Andonovski buried what would be Both Andonovski and Thorne the game winner midway through the scored in the second period Saturday second period. to mount a comeback from a 2 – 0 The Saints threw a total of fifty shots deficit, sending the game to an eventual on the UCC net. overtime period. BCS scored just over Upper Canada extended the series a minute into extra time to take the into the third and decisive game with a championship. Cam Hillis carries the puck up the ice in the St. Andrew’s Saints’ 3 - 1 win over Upper Canada College in 5 – 2 win on March 3, after the Saints They went on to defeat Upper Canada Game Three of the CISAA final. took game one by a score of 7 – 1. 3 – 0 in Sunday’s final. Auroran photo by Jake Courtepatte
3HL TOUR Coming to Aurora on March 25 T.C.'S The world’s first ever 3-on-3 teams of aspiring and accomplished country or overseas professional Professional Hockey League makes pro hockey players representing hockey leagues enabling players to its fifth tour stop in York Region on various cities competing in a both play hockey and pursue other BURGERS March 25 at the Aurora Community single elimination bracket style aspects of their life including family, Centre. tournament for a share of a cash friends, and a career outside of hockey. EST. '93 The 3HL TOUR is the world’s first purse, individual player bonuses, The Newmarket Saints will serve 15198 YONGE STREET, 3 on 3 Professional Hockey League and pride. Individual tournaments as the host for the 3HL Aurora AURORA, ONTARIO showcasing Canada’s elite hockey contribute to the overall season Dangle Fest and call the ACC it’s talent through a series of 3 on 3 pro standings, culminating in the 3HL home ice on March 25. Almost the hockey tournaments (3HL TOUR Champions Cup. At the 3HL Aurora entire Saints roster features players 905-841-1380 Events) across Southern Ontario. Dangle Fest, teams will be competing from the York Region, including The 3HL TOUR kicked off its for a share of a $15K cash purse. captain and Aurora, ON native FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED inaugural season on January 1 The 3HL TOUR is an opportunity Chris MacKinnon. MacKinnon is a SINCE 1993! with the 3HL TOUR New Year’s Day for elite hockey players to play former OHL star, who had back-to- Classic at the Mattamy Athletic professional hockey in Canada. back top 10 scoring leader with the COME IN TO ENJOY Centre, the historic old Maple Leaf The 3HL TOUR allows players Kitchener Rangers back in 2008- GREAT BURGERS, Gardens. from professional leagues (NHL, 09/2009-10. The Saints are also led Since then, the tour has made AHL, ECHL, SPHL and Europe) by 2014 Hobey Baker finalist and DELICIOUS HOMEMADE stops in Oshawa, Collingwood and and young talent from Junior, Mercyhurst University goaltender SOUVLAKI, Guelph. CIS and NCAA. The ability to Jimmy Sarjeant. On March 25th, the 3HL will make play professional hockey while Through the 3HL Cares initiative AND MORE! its fifth tour stop at the Aurora remaining close to home, combined a portion of proceeds will go to Community Centre for the 3HL with the tournaments are played on support national partner charities EAT IN OR CALL AHEAD FOR Aurora Dangle Fest. the weekend, makes the 3HL TOUR including March of Dimes Canada & 3HL TOUR Events consist of eight an ideal alternative to other out of Prostate Cancer Canada. PICKUP!
Zumba. Boomba.
Find out more and register at activateaurora.com
#activateaurora
SUPPORTED BY
An agency of the Government of Ontario Un organisme du gouvernement de l’Ontario Page 10 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 11 Goals of Economic Development Corporation readied for approval By Brock Weir “The AEDC provides a critical address those concerns,” said Mr. Ierullo. $600,000 in reserves. advisory role in promoting economic “More specifically, there was a concern “When you look at when the CIP It is designed to kick-start some new growth and diversification in the Town around new economic programs being was developed, the maximum funding energy and authority in how Aurora of Aurora. Economic development goals proposed outside of the context of a new envelope for that program, if every tackles economic development, and should seek to build on local strengths, Board being in place, and the potential for program was fully implemented in a now the roles and responsibilities of mitigate existing weaknesses, convey conflict between the direction the Board certain calendar year, we would expect the Town’s new “Aurora Economic the desired outcomes of the strategic wanted to go and the programs that to have $220,000 worth of funding to Development Corporation” will soon be planning process, and speak directly to were being proposed. We have decided be funded,” he said. “Based on those in Council’s hands. the aspirations of the community. [It is] to essentially wait for the new Board numbers we are pretty confident we will The new path to economic development responsible for working with community to establish an economic development be well funded. cleared a significant hurdle last week stakeholders to develop and maintain strategic plan and ensure that any new “Obviously the uptake [in the CIP] receiving the endorsement of Aurora’s an Economic Development Strategy for programming is consistent with the hasn’t been what we would have hoped Economic Development Committee the Town of Aurora to guide economic direction of the new Board and Council and we have done a series of things (EDAC). development activities and investment as it relates to that. We do believe that the over the last few years including Receiving the tentative green light over the short, medium and long term. operational structure and recruitment door-knocking campaigns, hosting from Council last month, lawmakers This strategy will be updated and activities are something that need to information sessions, a realtor session a voted to send details on the Corporation approved by Council every five years.” be advanced, so we have been actively few months ago, but recognizing that the to the Committee for final review before If the terms are approved as drafted, advancing those and expect to have all uptake isn’t where we need it to be, we’re taking things to the next level. the Corporation will have the goals of of that in place when the Board is up and also proposing to do a bit of a review Designed to give local business supporting the expansion of existing running so there is proper support for of the program and focus groups with leaders a little bit more autonomy in business, providing input on downtown the Board in place.” people who have shown interest in the how economic development projects revitalization, supporting cultural There are sufficient funds in place program just to get a sense of how we can are steered and stimulated in the years activities that “offer opportunities for through the CIP, he assured EDAC, to do better to generate more interest in the ahead, as well as enable a body to provide economic development” attracting and fund the Board, with approximately program itself.” businesses and property owners with a brokering new business development, and few more incentives above those allowed encouraging economic diversification. towns like Aurora under the Province’s EDAC signed off on the structure and Municipal Act, the terms of reference goals of the Corporation on Thursday fill in many of the gaps that followed night during a meeting which lasted Council’s first approval. little over nine minutes. During that “The Aurora Economic Development time, however, Anthony Ierullo, Aurora’s Corporation (AEDC) is a non-share, Manager of Strategic Planning, addressed not-for-profit corporation incorporated some of the concerns first voiced by under the Business Corporations Act EDAC earlier this year, particularly the and Municipal Act,” reads the Terms of fact that this new Corporation will be Reference. “On behalf of the Council of funded from money previously allocated the Town of Aurora, the AEDC provides for Aurora’s Community Improvement strategic leadership and coordination Plan (CIP). of community economic development. The CIP is designed to provide funding It works with partners (provincial, for a number of initiatives, such as regional, and federal governments, façade improvements, helping business community agencies, educational and property owners make their institutions and local businesses) buildings more attractive to consumers. to strengthen and diversify existing While there has been an uptake at the business, attract new business and community level, it has been slow. investment, and coordinate strategic “We obviously took that feedback economic development initiatives within seriously and went back to propose some the community. revisions to our proposed roll-out to
Briefly 18-YEAR-OLD AURORAN AMONG TEN DRIVERS CHARGED WITH IMPAIRED An 18 year old Aurora man faces multiple charges as one of 10 drivers nabbed by the York Regional Police over the weekend. On Sunday, March 12, at approximately 8.10 p.m., York Regional Police say they responded to reports of an impaired driver near Bathurst and Carville Road in Richmond Hill who had collided with a hydro pole. Police say when they arrived on the scene the driver was attempting to flee on foot, prompting “a brief foot pursuit” that ended in the arrest of the driver “who appeared to be impaired by drugs in addition to alcohol.” Many homes in the area were left without power following the crash. He has been charged with impaired driving, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, failure to submit to a drug evaluation, fail to remain, and multiple other charges. YRDSB WELCOMES ANTI-RACISM PLAN The York Region District School Board has welcomed Ontario’s new three-year Anti-Racism Strategic Plan. “Equity is one of our foundational practices as a school board,” said Director of Education J. Philip Parappally, Make a Difference whose Board has been plagued by claims of systemic discrimination. “We look forward to working with the Province and our communities to continue identifying and removing barriers, and providing opportunities for all of our students to reach their full potential.” Added Board Chair Loralea Carruthers: “This is an important in Federal Elections step to ensure we root out racism in our public institutions and society. It’s incredibly important to us that all students, regardless of race, ethnicity, skin colour, religion or sexual orientation, have the chance to succeed.” The YRDSB says it is committed to “creating learning and working environments that promote student achievement and well-being, and processes that are fair and transparent.” To that end, the Board is collecting racial and ethnic Be a Returning Officer background data through future student and parent surveys, the results of which will help the Board “develop a better understanding of our student community and monitor progress toward the Board’s goals for improvement in equity and inclusivity.” They are also commissioning an independent, third-party equity audit that would help to identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement, and requiring all schools and departments within the Board to have Equity Designates who champion and support the equity work happening in the system. Additional measures will require all schools and departments within the Board to have Equity Designates who champion and support the equity work happening in the system.
HEAD INTO THE SUGAR BUSH The Healthy Kids Community Challenge and Windfall Ecology Centre will hold a free Nature Play Pop-Up this Saturday, March 18, at Windfall Ecology Centre in Sheppard’s Bush. Featuring an adventure playground for kids to experience and explore unstructured play, as well as maple syrup taffy treats, the drop-in event runs from 1 – 4 p.m. Windfall Ecology Centre is locate at 93A Industrial Parkway South.
CCoommffoorrtt FFoouunndd.. Your opportunity to serve democracy in Newmarket–Aurora
The work of a returning officer is challenging and • New Furnace *DM97MC rewarding. If you’re a leader with management experience • Modulating, Variable Speed and knowledge of your community, this may be the job • Up to 98% afue efficiency for you. • Super Quiet Operation As a returning officer, you will plan and manage federal • Comfort NetTM Communication elections in your riding during a ten-year appointment. • 12 Years Parts & You will represent Elections Canada and be on the front Labour Warranty line for electors and candidates. The hours of work vary between elections, but increase significantly in the year leading up to an election.
To qualify as a returning officer, you must be a Canadian *$400 Daikin Instant Rebate wiitth Comffortt Nett Thermosttatt citizen, at least 18 years old, and live in the federal riding $250 OPA (Ontario Power Authority Rebate) where you’re applying to work. To find out more about the role of a returning officer and how to apply, go to elections.ca and click on Employment or call 1-800-463-6868. COMFORT FOR LIFE Applications must be received by midnight | on March 31, 2017. Over 180 Years of Combined Experience and Excellence! call 905.727.4258 136 Wellington St. E. Aurora | www.tholiver.com *Daikin Instant Rebate taken off of invoice at time of purchase. Daikin Rebate amount shown for furnace model DM97MC, other rebate amounts available on similar models, call for details. OPA Rebate mailed back to purchaser directly on Elections Canada is an independent body set up by Parliament qualifying furnaces. Call for complete details. to conduct federal elections, by-elections and referendums. Page 12 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 13 THE AURORAN ARTS & CULTURE
March 17 – 8pm live music Opening March 23 8pm April 7 - 8pm live music
Events This Season Great Artist John Sheard Music Series Lennie Gallant Presents Presents at the Aurora JANINA FIALKOWSKA JUNO Award-Winning PIANO Lynn Miles Cultural Centre Roots & Folk Governor General’s Juno For tickets/info: LifetimeAchievement Award in Award Winning 905 713-1818 Classical Music Vocalist $30 Advance | $35 Day of Concert Tickets $28 Senior/Student $34/ Adult auroraculturalcentre.ca | 22 Church Street, Aurora HST applicable on all tickets Generously Sponsored by Bonnie & Norbert Kraft Tickets $30 Advance | $35 Day of Concert Art Heals challenges viewer to see the world through new eyes
By Brock Weir The results of this exploration form part of the Art Heals exhibition People spend so much time thinking, now on at the Aurora Cultural Centre ‘If only I had more time, I would…” featuring artists from York, Durham and, according to Shannon Leigh Phair, and Simcoe Regions whose works are they invariably have a list of things to the end result of their healing process. fill in that blank. But, what if the real Curated by Clare Bolton of the Aurora question was what you would do if you Cultural Centre, the Art Cures project had less time? is spearheaded by Allan O’Marra who That is the question Ms. Phair saw several instances of the healing started weighing when, in February power of art while working with of 2014, she was diagnosed with colon Mental Health Sciences in Whitby. cancer aged just 32. “In 2015, I conceived the idea of Still fighting the fight, the Beeton asking fellow artists to create works of resident says she has always known art with emotional healing in mind,” deep down she is an artist at heart, but said Mr. O’Marra in a statement. “The her diagnoses gave her the opportunity premise of the show was for each to explore deeper that side of herself, a artist to create a work of art that, in side which had taken a back seat to her its creation, deals with, and hopefully nine-to-five job. helps in the healing process of personal
Artist Shannon Phair carries on a very important conversation – through art – at the Art Heals exhibition, on now at the Aurora Cultural Centre. The show officially opens this Friday, March 17, with a reception from 6 – 8 p.m. All are welcome. Auroran photo by Brock Weir
issues such as past discrimination meditate, see the people you love more, issues, marital or family problems, past- spend more time looking into the eyes life issues, serious disappointments, of the person you love. Maybe what we and so on.” should be saying is, ‘If I had less time I Ms. Phair, who attended high school would do all of those things and more.’” at Dr. G.W. Williams Secondary School Each lovingly crafted block is with her now-husband, didn’t have far stitched together with thread, symbolic to look for inspiration. Her creation, in Ms. Fair’s eyes as it represents “Mixed Feelings” is a series of mixed traditional materials, “women’s work”, Sample assorted Craft Beers! media blocks bearing various thoughts the craft movement, and, in the motion that came to the artists’ mind in the of weaving in and out, the art of Enjoy a variety of foods by local chefs! earlier stages of her cancer fight. meditation. “My genes made a deal with my “It is a contemplative way of life to have a crystal clear perspective working, but it is a soft material, so it is LIVE Musical Entertainment! Silent Auction! at the highest cost,” she says of the peaceful,” she muses. “The text on the dialogue she has with herself through blocks are thoughts that came into my Join us these blocks. “In some strange way mind pretty much unedited. They were April 7th I feel lucky to have been diagnosed statements or questions pertaining to 5:30pm - 11pm with a terrible disease because it has my struggle and the healing process given me the gift of perspective. The and I think people can relate to them.” The Aurora Armoury Building perspective we have in life can make She glances down on the floor to (89 Mosley St. Aurora Town Park) all the difference. Maybe I am naïve or one particular block bearing the word too positive, but this is what keeps me “Alone…”. going. “The funning thing is there was more “My feelings have changed a lot over to that statement, but I forgot it due to
THIS IS GREAT BEER the past three years. I do whatever I one of the side effects, so it stayed as want when I want with who I want. I ‘alone’ and it worked really well because Thank You to our Sponsors become picky about who I spend my that is how you feel sometimes dealing time with. I hear people say, ‘If I had with difficult struggles. But here, I am Terry R. Sherin more time I would’ and fill in the blank, just trying to create [for the art lover] a Sales Representative but it seems that no matter how much different way of seeing things.” time we have we still don’t do the things that we want: learn to play the guitar, Art Heals runs through May 6.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Damir Vrancic Dr. Norman Orschel From page 4 Don’t miss this unique and timely Aurora’s Community Newspaper Law O ce Aurora Central Dental Care privileged that this sterling production opportunity to laugh and to cry, and takes place so close to home. to feel warm all over in the company If you miss opening night at of the fairy tale characters of your Madsen’s, you are in luck! “Into the memories, where wishes come true Tickets Available at: in poignant ways you never before $20 Royal Lepage (14799 Yonge St. Aurora) Woods” runs at the Stephen Leacock $25 @ the door. Cash only. Theatre in Keswick until April 9. imagined. This heart-warming show Limited number of tickets available Limited number available. is buoyant, beautiful and riveting, and Must be 19 years or over Obtain your tickets at 905-475-0193 or [email protected]. when it is done, spring will seem closer Madsen’s tickets are available at than ever! Presented by the Optimist Club of Aurora Corey Jackson Net proceeds to the Youth of Aurora SNAPD Newmarket. Aurora YOUR LOCAL FORD LINCOLN DEALER
Supports Local Sports Teams 15815 YONGE ST. AURORA SALES • LEASING • SERVICE QUICK LANE • PARTS MCALPINEFORD.COM 905-841-0800 15815 Yonge Street, Aurora
11--888080-24653--03481419 Page 12 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 13
Newmarket-Aurora MPP Chris Ballard honours, from left, Laurie Mueller, Rola Issa, and Angel Freedman. Auroran photos by Glenn Rodger
We sell Ceremony honours volunteers, youth leaders all types of From page 1 A familiar face in Aurora’s sports by Rotary International as a way to help community, Sport Aurora’s Laurie young people learn about volunteering, collect winter coats in need,” read her Filters Mueller was recognize for her nearly fundraising and how to become citation. “Rola is an inspiration to the two decades of dedicated work in effective leaders. Laura’s hard work young LEOs that she works with.” improving the athletic scene. and dedication to the program, and the Humidifiers Social worker Angel Freedman’s “Her passion in the development of young people involved, help it remain work as a community builder was opportunities for women and girls in successful.” saluted through her efforts to spearhead sports is truly inspiring. Laurie has Air Cleaners York Region’s Fill A Purse campaign, spent most of her volunteer life building NEXT WEEK: Shaylyn Benaissa, which collects items for homeless programs and services that raise the Nadia Gaurino, Lisa Walters, Catherine women on the streets as well as Angel’s & Water Pumps profile and visibility of women in sport, Capek, Maimoona Ashraf, Gloria Garage. but also in helping organizations engage Reszler, Tain Monzavi, Robyn Kassam, “Last year’s Fill-A-Purse campaign women and girls in the program.” Rebecca Boyd, Karian Guimond, saw more than 2,700 purses donated to Fighting for the rights of women, Marsha Fox, Taylor Piotrowski, and Tel: 905-727-6401 8 Industrial Pkwy. S. women that were filled with essentials Elaine Adam’s work was recognized, Edna Bozhori. www.nyhp.on.ca Aurora, Ontario for their everyday use,” said her along with her “compassion, empathy, citation. “Her endless volunteerism is and boundless energy” in her work with inspiring to others and makes a positive Community Living Aurora-Newmarket, impact on the community.” Community Bread, and beyond. Phyllis Morris, who from 2006 – “She is an advocate and big sister to 2010 served as Aurora’s second elected everyone she meets. Elaine is constantly female mayor, following Evelyn Buck, giving back to her community and is was recognized for her work in the an advocate for women’s rights. She is public sphere. an inspiration and role model to both “Phyllis has been a leading woman women and girls.” within the Town of Aurora for many Whether you have tasted her jams years,” announced emcee Vivian Risi. and preserves or worked with her on a “Phyllis is a leading woman to be looked committee, the “fierce passion” of Jan up to. She is an example to all women Freedman for what she does is evident. and young girls. Phyllis has continued Hailed as an “inspiration to women to inspire young women in the everywhere,” she was recognized for community, teaching them not to give her work with a number of community up and maintaining a positive attitude. organizations including the Aurora Through her volunteer work, Phyllis Seniors’ Centre. continues to be a strong voice and “Jan strongly believes that no one, advocate for Aurora and Newmarket.” especially seniors, should be without Next up was Suzanne Whitehurst, a traditional meal over the holidays,” who was recognized for her reads her citation, focusing on the volunteerism with CHATS (Community Centre’s annual Christmas dinner, and Home Assistance to Seniors), which which she has chaired for the past progressed into a staff position at the three years, as well as her previous Aurora-based organization. recognition from the Town of Aurora “Suzanne has offered Meals on for her work at the Aurora Farmers’ Wheels to seniors, participated in Market and local festivals. “Jan a reading program for seniors, the continues to work and inspire women Homework Club of the York Region and girls throughout the community.” Children’s Aid Society, the Aurora Food The arts were well-represented Pantry and the Aurora United Church through Alex Karolyi, who received Rise & Shine Community Breakfast. an ovation for her volunteer work Her generosity and giving spirit is with Markham Youth Theatre, Thatz endless. Suzanne continues to inspire Showbiz, and Creative Through Arts. all who meet her.” “Alex is a role model for many women Another familiar community and girls in the community with her volunteer is Juli Playter, who was entrepreneurial spirit and successful heralded as “tireless” in her efforts to arts organization. She has mentored improve the lives of others. emerging artists and entrepreneurs “She has supported many and supported female-driven arts A great taste causes, including the Heart and organizations. Alex inspires women Stroke Foundation, Cancer Society, and girls in the arts to reach for the Newmarket Museum Board and the you will stars and follow their dreams. Terry Fox Run. Juliana has also played Leaders of tomorrow can also thank an important role in Take Back the Laura Bradford, who was honoured for remember Night, an international movement to her work with Rotary International. raise awareness about violence against “Laura is a very dedicated to the women. She leads many initiatives to for the next betterment of young ladies and is support families with young children always looking for girls to get involved. A great taste you and is often a mentor to these young Laura has been an integral part in 364 days. girls, inspiring them through her guiding high school girls in a club will remember leadership.” Happy St. Patrick’s Day from your friends at Hockley! called Interact. This club was created for the next 364 days.
DOWNTOWN TASTE COMES NORTH Happy Saint Patrick’s day from your friends at Hockley! TRY OUR FAMILY COMBO! 1 Whole Chicken PiriPiri Sauce 4 Medium Sides Choice of: Rice Pilaf Parisienne Potatoes Tomato & Cucumber Salad HOCKLEYBEER.CA Creamy Coleslaw The Chicken Place Chick Pea Salad Portuguese BBQ Bean Salad 1 Industrial Parkway South French Fries 1162 Hockley Beer Ads_StPatricks_Finals.indd 2 Pints of Hockley Beer 2/16/16 10:10 AM Caesar Salad 905-900-0019 on for $4.99 Sauteed Vegetables St. Patrick’s Day weekend www.thechickenplace.ca only $3695 at Hogan’s Restaurant and The Hunt Pub Save time and call ahead to place your order. Page 14 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 15 Put your best feet forward for CHATS and help local seniors By Brock Weir ever with a new location, new programs, Formerly at Upper Canada Mall, which need help with light housekeeping, or and new incentives to get more seniors up Mr. Jones says has been a great partner, with assistance. There is personal and In just a few short years, our seniors on their feet to help those who might find CHATS decided to bring the walk home home support. Personal support can even population will outnumber the youth it a bit of a challenge. to Aurora to coincide with the Activate help you with getting in and out of the creating a major crunch for care, but you “It used to be a virtual walk where Aurora Campaign which aims to have tub, bathing, and the supports you need can help close the gaps by lacing up for the we just gave everybody pedometers and Aurora recognized as “Canada’s Most in that regard, and we provide Meals CHATS Walk for Wellness. said, ‘Walk and let us know how far you Active Community” by 2020. on Wheels if you have trouble cooking Now in its eighth year, the CHATS walked but, most importantly, get pledges “Activate Aurora seemed to be focusing but can put something in a microwave.” (Community and Home Assistance to and register through our system,’” says a lot on the youth and the adults, but CHATS charges a fee for their services, Seniors) Walk for Wellness, which will CHATS’ Tim Jones. “I decided to turn it seniors are just as much of an active but they are fees that are subsidized so, in take place Saturday, April 8, at the Aurora into a real walk that people can come to, group,” says Mr. Jones. “I said, let’s many cases, it is much less than the cost Family Leisure Complex is bigger than experience and feel it.” put our two cents into Activate Aurora of commercial services on the market. and between that, the partnership with While they provide a driving service Activate Aurora, the Town of Aurora, of going back and forth to the hospital the Leisure Complex, Sport Aurora, and that is about half the cost of taking a the Aurora Seniors’ Association, it has taxi, they provide a free service picking shifted to become a part of the initiative you up after a hospital stay, stopping at and our walk at the same time.” the grocery and drug stores along the With registration now open, this way, and set you back up at home with year’s Walk for Wellness will feature everything you need. not only the walk itself, which will take “You won’t be back in the hospital place along the Aurora Family Leisure within two days because you haven’t Complex’s new track, but Nordic pole eaten or you haven’t had your own meds,” walking workshops with Shawn Nisbet, says Mr. Jones. “CHATS tries to help the quick massages from local massage senior who needs that helping hand to therapist Gord McCallum, competitions, live independently in their own homes.” prizes, and an opportunity to learn. When Mr. Jones started working at “When the health care system talks CHATS six years ago, they had close to about providing more long term care 5,000 clients. Today, there are more than beds and more assisted living quarters, 8,000 due to the aging population in York what we try to do through CHATS is, Region and South Simcoe. In many cases, at a minimal percentage of the cost, is their clientele is not able to take part in [email protected] keep people and keep seniors who are events like Walk for Wellness, but their 905.841.0916 able in their own homes,” says Mr. Jones. clients’ families and caregivers are “That way people are more comfortable. invited to come and show their support I would rather be in my own house than for CHATS. a facility that if I didn’t need the care “Funds raised goes right back into SPRING Horse Back Riding a facility gives me. I could get that care enhancing existing services,” says from an agency like CHATS and I can get Jones. “We don’t want any seniors to fall a feeling of independence. through the cracks,” says Mr. Jones. Ridgewood Farm LESSONS “We provide seniors who have lost For more information on the CHATS their license and can’t drive with Walk for Wellness – and to register – transportation. We provide seniors who visit www.chats.on.ca or call Kelley perhaps aren’t as flexible anymore and MacKenzie at 905-713-3373 x6055. Canada 150 plans move ahead with $62k budget By Brock Weir accommodate just 3,000 people, might be better spent on an activity accessible to Fantastic Atmosphere Planners behind Aurora’s celebration the entire town. “Everything that was Excellent and Certifi ed Coaches of Canada’s 150th Anniversary this year put together was based on the ability Family Run were hoping to have $90,000 to work with to put that particular item into a grant to make it a party to remember, but plans request.” SIGN UP NOW! are now moving forward with a $62,000 This did not satisfy Councillor Abel, $175 for a budget. who said he was “disappointed” the OnlyMonth of Lessons As The Auroran reported this Ad Hoc committee had, until last week month, Council was facing a budget only met once in nine months. Looking Come for the HORSES recommendation of $87,000 to finance a back to Aurora’s own 150th Anniversary Stay for the fun! series of events and projects to mark the celebrations in 2013, he said Council www.ridgewoodfarm.ca Sesquicentennial, including a military and the Town as a whole encouraged Call for more details 905-727-8231 tattoo, a pow wow celebrating Canada’s every business and community group indigenous peoples, a youth innovation to incorporate the Aurora 150 logo into fair, and a fireworks display on December their activities to build awareness and 31 to close out the milestone year. enhance all programs to reflect the Despite high hopes for a large Federal anniversary. He sought – and received – grant, however, the Town was only assurances that the door was not closed successful in securing $20,000 specifically on reviving this concept for this year. for the pow wow, leaving the other events, “I think the reason there haven’t Sorley & Still with the exception of the State Farm and been many meetings is because Council Rotary Club-sponsored youth innovation hasn’t provided the approval to move fair, to be funded from municipal coffers. forward,” Councillor Sandra Humfryes At the previous week’s General offered. “The budget was up in the air Committee meeting, much of the and, in fact, many of us said we wouldn’t discussion revolved around the merits of approve anything unless it was a grant When you need legal each component of the plan, which was from the Federal Government. I don’t representation, let the devised by a group of citizen volunteers blame the Committee for not having met sitting on Aurora’s Canada 150 Ad Hoc more frequently.” experienced lawyers at committee. Added Councillor Wendy Gaertner: Sorley & Still work for you. Their concerns ranged from an “We sincerely thank the Committee for apparent lack of time to put together a all their hard work because it is not that Military Tattoo for the late spring at the we didn’t appreciate their work, we’re Aurora Community Centre to whether just trying to figure out the money.” unpredictable New Year’s Eve weather From Councillor Abel’s perspective, Family Law would make the $12,000 earmarked for however, a large part of the money could Separation & Divorce the Family First Night fireworks display have been figured out already. It is not the wasted. Ultimately, these components are fault of the committee, he agreed, as this Custody & Support all proceeding to the next level, with the was the path set out by Council direction. exception of a legacy project of a park He reminded Council that in 2014 and Property & Pensions naming and water feature. 2015 he suggested putting a $10,000 This $25,000 item was taken out of the place-holder in the budget so Aurora Wills & Estates/Litigation budget with an eye of incorporating the wouldn’t be “caught short” in planning, legacy feature into the future Library a suggestion that was twice nixed. Square. “We should have been putting in a By the time these recommendations little bit of money and being prepared to hit Council for final recommendation, budget it, just like we are now. I am hoping discussions then turned to the process we can take some of these great ideas 905-726-9956 705-994-4616 and timelines. that the Committee put forward and, 15064 Yonge Street, Aurora “When this was all put together, there beginning tomorrow, ramp up a couple 2-450 Hume Street, Collingwood was no budget,” said Mayor Geoff Dawe, of great ideas. I think there will be other responding to a comment from Councillor ideas coming forward from Committee to CollingwoodFamilyLaw.comAuroraFamilyLaw.com John Abel that the $40,000 budgeted for do some celebrations for the Town so we the tattoo at the ACC, a venue which can can join together for Canada’s 150th.”
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK! We’re working with independent community newspapers across Ontario to see if readers want digital content in addition to our print issues. Do you want to read your news online? Take our short survey at: How do you feel about news delivered to your email? What kind of news interests you? www.ocna.org/survey YOU could shape the future of Independent Community News! Page 14 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 15 Aurora student calls for a “movement” on homeless youth From page 1 But, giving up has never been an option public with this because I have nothing viewpoint when it comes to accessibility easier said than done. for me in my life in any aspect. I knew I to lose. I don’t have a home, but I want to in this country and move forward with While it is hard enough for homeless had a vision for my life – I want to become show people that we don’t have to suffer accessible design. My journey is not teens and young adults to find shelter a lawyer – and I wanted to keep focus on in silence. over and I think that alone needs to be with a limited number of shelter beds in the bigger picture.” “I think people think this isn’t possible, recognized. I honestly think there needs York Region, it has been doubly hard for Ben says he was “shocked” when he that government will really pick this up, to be a movement in the way we handle Ben who was born with cerebral palsy. eventually secured his temporary space but we, as a society, need to change our these situations.” “A lot of the shelters within the GTA with 360 Kids, but this shock was followed are not accessible or won’t let me come by a degree of trepidation. into the shelter because when I come in “I was also scared because now I had reached a stepping stone, but I knew there with my [personal support worker (PSW)] B S they are worried about the confidentiality was a long road ahead,” he says. “I knew P of other residents,” says Ben. “The Region this was temporary and I was scared – and of York will only allow me to stay in a York I am scared – for what will come next. I Plumbing Service Region shelter for up to four months, so I estimate my chances of eventually finding EST. 1972 will have to find another place to live. The an accessible place at one in a million.” wait list for subsidized housing in York Meanwhile, for Ben and his PSW, it is Region is 15 to 35 years long and young almost business as usual. He gets up every single men are not usually a priority morning at 6.30 a.m. and his PSW comes in • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL for that wait list because there is a more to help him get ready for school. He takes pressing need for women and children.” the bus in from Richmond Hill, attends 905-727-3210 Ben nevertheless persevered. First either classes at Williams or spends the www.bobsplumbing.ca coming into contact with 360 Kids in 2015 day at his co-op placement at the office when he was laying the groundwork for of MPP Chris Ballard, then back to the his summer company which was aimed shelter to repeat the journey over again at helping local businesses achieve the next day. And while he might have some unique CROSSWORD standards outlined in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). challenges of his own, he is certainly not Their work in providing resources to alone. homeless youth was brought back to him “I think society needs to remember through in-school counselling at Dr. G.W. that we are just kids and don’t need Williams Secondary School. to suffer in the way that we do,” says “I started to call 360 Kids every night Williamson. “I applaud 360 Kids for the at midnight because I found out waitlists services they provide to youth who have for beds start at midnight,” says Ben, who gone through the trauma. The Region began this cycle of phone call, followed has done a great first step in providing by disappointment, last June, before the 14 beds that they have for youth, finally snagging a spot three weeks ago. “I but they need to expand that and lift the thought, ‘I am never going to get in’ and restrictions of four months for youth I wouldn’t be able to have a better future. because it is not long enough. I went Tourney runs through Monday
From page 9 fourth-ranked team in the province. a thrilling 2 – 1 win over the Toronto The London Jr. Knights of the Marlboros in overtime. Alliance league earned the prestigious Current North Bay Battalion rookie tournament’s top ranking. Rhys Forhan scored both Express goals, With action kicking off Tuesday, the while goaltender Andrei Berezinskiy tournament plays out at Scotiabank earned tournament MVP honours Pond in Toronto through to Monday, playing to a 5-0 record with a 2.09 goals- before the championship game moves against-average. to the Mattamy Athletic Centre Monday While the Express have been banished night. from the OMHA’s rankings list, the The final game will be broadcast on Marlboros enter the tournament as the Sportsnet Ontario. LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION Page 16 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 17 Aurora’sAurora’s At Your Service OPENFOR BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Who does what in our community
AIRPORT LIMO KARATE MORTGAGE
st nd York Region NORTHERN KARATE SCHOOLS 1 , 2 Mortgages Why take a TAX/MORTGAGE ARREARS DIRECTORY905-726-8886 gas-guzzler? www.northernkarate.com BANK SAYS NO... WE SAY YES!!! Hire an eco-friendly Hybrid for your next AIRPORT transfer. Increases Confidence NEW HOME PURCHASE | HOME EQUITY LOAN Very competitive rates from only $80.00 & SelfEsteem Call 416-992-3811 or 905-727-8600 Gaetana (Nella) Lanzellotti email: [email protected] ecolimoyorkregion.com Improves Concentration & Academic Performance License# M14000424 Enhances SelfDiscipline Centum Mortgage Professionals License# 10266 Great Exercise and www.Centum.ca/Nella_Lanzellotti Shirley Jean Limousine Fun for the Entire Family [email protected]
Try Our TM
Mortgage Professionals Corp. for Only $19.95 Nothing rides like a Towncar – treat yourself! CALL OR TEXT Airport Transfers • Hand2Hand • Corporate Services • Special Events Call or Text: 289-221-0030 416.992.5104 Classic Limousine Service LANDSCAPE/GARDENING MOVING CLEANERS Zonta SUNSET BEECH • Heated Units Landscaping • Packaging & Storage & Renovating Supplies (Buy or Rent) Why take a chance... • 24 Hr Monitored Security • Video Surveillance Fencing TREE • Indoor & Outdoor Storage go with who you know! Decking Stone Work 905.775.6363 • 1.888.332.3438 • Cell: 905.252.2406 (905) 841-6243 Interlocking www.acmovingstorage.ca www.mollymaid.ca Kwik Kurb Basements 1.844.732.7575 Flooring PAINTING 8575 Keele St. #5-6, 8575 Keele St. #5-6, CONSTRUCTION/FLOORING1.844.732.7575Concord, ON L4K 3P4 Bathrooms CARE Concord,8575 Keele ON St. L4K #5-6, 3P4 [email protected] Kitchens Pruning • Removals www.pearlknstructions.comConcord, ON L4K 3P4 info@pearlknstructions.comwww.pearlknstructions.com1.844.732.7575 Consulting • Bracing • EAB 8575www.pearlknstructions.com Keele St. #5-6, Concord, ON L4K 3P4 Re-sanding • Refinishing• Sales • Installation • Service (647) 668 4949 [email protected] • www.pearlknstructions.com Re-sanding • Refinishing• Sales • Installation • Service 647-989-3509 FREE Re-sanding • Refi nishing • Sales • Installation • Service zlr.ca [email protected] 25 yrs. experience ESTIMATES 905-841-8949 416-520-6252 hardwood • laminate • carpet • stairs • granite hardwoodporcelain • laminate• tiles • •washrooms carpet • stairs • kitchens • granite porcelainporcelain •• tilestiles • washrooms •• kitchenskitchens DALTON’S PAINTING CONSTRUCTION • Interior & Exterior Painting • interlock/pavers FREE ESTIMATES • decks/fences 905-773-5811 • retaining walls • natural stone • flagstone PROPANE General Contracting • bobcat services & Renovation Services PROPANE AND APPLIANCE SALES • RESIDENTIAL Total Home Renovations • COMMERCIAL Additions & New Builds Office: 905-859-1046 • INDUSTRIAL 866-952-0146 Finished Basements Cell: 416-676-6641 INSTALLATIONS Decks & Fences SERVICE • DELIVERY Home Gyms & Wine Cellars WWW.MFCLANDSCAPING.COM All custom work welcome! CARLINg PROPANE INC. Toll Free 1-866-952-0146 www.carlingpropane.ca Fully Insured & Reliable MEDIATION SERVICES Contact Sean: 905-758-0866 www.caparenovations.com AURORA MEDIATION SERVICES SKYLIGHTS Don’t Litigate. Mediate. SKYLIGHTS LEAKING? Free Consultation • Skylights replaced? CREMATION Family Mediation • Separation and Divorce • Child Support, • No mess in your home Child Custody, Access, Parenting Plan, Mobility. • Leak-proof - Guaranteed! • Licensed & Insured 10% OFF Ron Sciulli, B.A., M., Ed AccFM Accredited Mediator BRIGHT • 10 year Guarantee goods and services Cell: 416-508-3677 Email: [email protected] SKYLIGHTS if you bring in this ad Member of the Ontario Association for Family Mediation (OAFM) Call Joe at any time 416-705-8635 / 905-898-9185 INC. Complete cremation service for $2,205. www.brightskylights.ca MORTGAGE INCOME TAX
Private Funds INCOME TAX SERVICES for Any Reason! Serving Aurora and the GTA 2.29% 5-Year Fixed All retruns E-Filed Not everyone 2.05% 5-Year Variable Pickup & Delivery of your tax returns Personal and Small Business needs your services all the time, but if you want to be there [email protected] 647.273.1981 when they do... Advertise in Aurora’s WATER At Your Service Directory This could be 905-727-3300 your spot
Call to advertise: 905-727-3300 x 102 • FREE WATER TEST
FINANCING Call Today AVAILABLE 15483 Yonge St. Aurora 905-751-0845 reverse osmosis water. Page 16 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 17
MARCH 13 – 17 auroraarboretum.ca. Deep Sea Discovery - March Break Vacation Bible MARCH 31 – APRIL 2 Camp from 8.30 a.m. to 12 Noon for children 5-12 years The Aurora Seniors’ Association’s Silver Stars of age. Hosted by Aurora United Church at Trinity present Jack & The Beanstalk on March 31 at 7 p.m., Anglican Church, 79 Victoria St., Aurora. At Deep Sea April 1 at 2 p.m., and April 2 at 2 p.m. at the Aurora Discovery, children will hear amazing stories, play Seniors’ Centre. Tickets are $5, with refreshments fun games, make incredible crafts, sing great VBC included. Tickets available at the reception desk songs, enjoy tasty snacks and explore faith/life issues. now. For more, call the Centre at 905-726-4767. Information and Registration Forms available at www. THINGS auroraunitedchurch.ca or 905-727-1935. Fialkowska, Piano. Winner of the Governor General’s FRIDAY, APRIL 7 him a host of awards and nominations from both the The Aurora Cultural Centre, 22 Church Street, YOU OUGHTLifetime TO Achievement KNOW Award in Classical Music, FRIDAY, MARCH 17 JUNOs and East Coast Music Awards. He was recently presents John Sheard with the Juno Award-winning Ms. Fialkowska will present an all-Chopin program. Lush Gravitas, a solo portrait exhibition by Allan honored with the 2014 Canadian Folk Music Award roots singer/songwriter/guitarist Lynn Miles. Tickets $34 Adult, $28 Senior (60+)/Student (up to 18 O’Marra formally opens tonight at the Aurora Cultural for Artist of the Year for his latest recording “Live Tickets $30 Advance, $35 day of concert. Concert at 8 years). Concert at 8 p.m. For information, or to purchase Centre with an opening reception from 6 – 8 p.m. On Acoustic at The Carleton.” Doors open at 7 p.m. p.m.; cash bar. For information or to purchase tickets, tickets, call 905-713-1818, or visit auroracultural from March 11 – May 6, don’t miss the special series of call 905-713-1818, or visit auroraculturalcentre.ca hyper-realist over-sized oil on canvas portraits by the WEDNESDAY, MARCH 22 centre.ca. The Aurora Cultural Centre, 22 Church Streets, award-winning artists. SATURDAY, APRIL 8 presents “Talk Art” with Lush Gravitas Curator/Artist MONDAY, MARCH 27 The Aurora United Church Women are holding The Aurora Community Arboretum will hold its * * * * Allan O’Marra at 6 p.m. All welcome; admission at a book sale at Trinity Anglican Church, 79 Victoria AGM in the Magna Room of the Aurora Public Library The Aurora Cultural Centre hosts Lennie Gallant no charge. For information, call 905-713-1818, or visit Street, today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Choose from a starting at 7 p.m. with light refreshments. Please join in Concert tonight at 8 p.m. Lennie Gallant is a native auroraculturalcentre.ca. wide selection of second hand adult and children’s us to hear about our accomplishments over the past of Rustico, Prince Edward Island. This renowned books at low prices. Stock up on your summer Canadian singer/songwriter has recorded ten albums THURSDAY, MARCH 23 year and our future plan. You may join or renew your The Aurora Cultural Centre, 22 Church Street, reading! (eight in English and two in French), which have won membership at this time, or see our website at www. presents the Great Artist Music Series with Janina THE AURORAN CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED
ABATE RABBIT CONSTRUC- REGISTERED PACKERS meat TION COMPANY RECES required processing facility LOOKING for ex- for local school aged FULL TIME POSITIONS from Arthur imme- perienced, knowl- child care centres in BOLTON JOBS- IMMEDIATE STARTS FULL TIME diately requires 16 edgable, on-site Aurora. Must have • Factory Help (Heavy), Wholesale and Re- supervisor for experience work- Rotating 3 shifts, tail Butchers with the York Region ing with children a minimum of 2 to 18 Full Time Union Positions Opportunities area. Please email ages 4-12 years. 3 years of direct resume to: ste- Available for part • Factory Work….. 4-10 hr. hands on experi- pheno@intercity time split shift ence in meat cutting Afternoon shifts (Mon-Thurs).. realty.com fax: 905- Monday to Fri- in Aurora NOW! and processing. Du- $16.00 / hr. 597-0493 office: 905- day 7 - 9 am and ties include cutting 597-0227. Weekend………… Fri, Sat, and sectioning of 3 - 6:30 pm. Please $ meat, skinning and contact Marisa at Sun…… 12 hour shift…. Pays Product Assembler 12/hr removing blemish- amongfriendsday- 40hrs. es, deboning rab- carecentres@hot- • Weekend Supervisor…. Fri, Sat, $ bits and chickens, mail.com. Shipping Clerk 12.50/hr cutting meat into Sun……….. $25./hr PART-TIME specialized cuts and • Maintenance Mechanic/ - Must be computer literate JANITOR required for Church. 10 hr. preparing for Electricians… $30/ hr. … Rotating - Comfortable with MS Offi ce Suite wholesale and retail weekly. Wages negotiable. Contact Don 905- sales. HS diploma 751-0257. D & A shifts or equivalent re- • Forklift, Reach……….. Licensed *No phone calls quired. Positions of- Operators…. $16-18 / hr fered are permanent Reinhart Auction-Online *Only applicants selected full time and salary • Resumes only, no phone calls is $16.00/hr for 42.5 • Only qualified persons will be contacted closing March 16 at 7pm • Accommodations for job applicants with for interview will be contacted hrs a week, OT af- disabilities are available on request for your ter 44 hrs a week. bidding opens March 10 recruitment process. Please apply in per- Preview March 15th, 2017 [email protected] To apply, send resume to: son at 7597 Jones Baseline in Arthur, from 1pm until 7pm 905-951-6330 Fax via email at joea@ 905-951-6300 Phone Fax: 905-727-0861 abatepackers.com, Tools, new jewelry, collectibles etc. 866-274-7231 Toll Free via fax at 1-519-848- to view catalogue please visit Email: [email protected] 2793 or via phone at 1-519-848-2107. http://reinhartauctions.hibid.com/ auctions/current “Our Business is People”
SERVICES
Freelance Reporter INCOME EXPERT TAX ACCOUNTANT for Local Community Newspaper TAX $ On Your Side Come join a dynamic, fast paced, growing entrepreneurial From 59 Personal & Business company looking for an energetic Freelance Reporter Tax Specialist Since 1988 Accurate. with a passion for community news. Low Cost. The ideal candidate will have a distinct willingness Convenient. to cover local community events and issues. Convenient Area Locations
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: CRAHEADACHES? • Freelance reporting work for weekly You need a TAX ACCOUNTANT who speaks community newspapers and special projects Call John: CRA language. We succeed where others fail! • Will produce stories and bylines for the events they cover 647.667.8298 In Trouble? We Sort, Adjust, Talk to the CRA for you or visit • Will be paid on a freelance/contract basis per project/story mistertax.ca and get you back on the right track. –Former CRA Auditor • Generate story ideas and follow up on news tips New Customers Tax Preparation for Individuals FOR SALE Businesses & Corporations • Take photographs – minimum of • CRA Tax Audits & Appeals CONCRETE $100,000 yearly • Bookkeeping Services • Work some evenings and weekends, as required ROOFING TILES for sale. income required. Call today for your Repairs available. free consultation. Text/Call 519-217- QUALIFICATIONS: 7777. itradelink.ca 205 Matheson Blvd. East Unit: 3 • Mississauga ON. L4Z 3E3 • Diploma in journalism preferred CARPET 905.507.8714 ext. 224 | [email protected] • Candidates should have experience working on I have 1000’s the editorial side of the newspaper industry of yards of new FOR RENT FOR SALE 100% nylon carpet. • Excellent writing, editing and photography skills Will install livingroom AURORA 1 BED- SHEEPSKIN & hall for as little as ROOM - completely COAT – Danier HOW SAFE • Valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle $389.00 furnished. Suits one 100%sheepskin IS YOUR JOB? coat. Perfect con- (includes carpet, pad & install) person. No Pets. No • Reporting experience an asset dition. Only worn Start building your Call Steve Smoking. $900 inclu- twice. $350 or best business today! • An interest in local issues is a necessity, 877.759.8179 sive. Wellington & offer. For more in- carpetdeals.ca Supplement your income as the majority of the writing for this role will be local Leslie. Call 416-564- formation and to by working part-time. 4330. view – 905-727-6497. You set your own hours.
AURORA LARGE 2 BEDROOM apt. Ready, freshly painted. Ask me how! $1,150/mo. First & last required. Pay own hydro. NS NP 905-841-0576 Call Ruth Greaves at 1-888-240-4767 Let’s Talk. or at night 905-727-9150. Interested and qualified CARRIERS WANTED Advertise in The Auroran candidates should forward SENIORS WELCOME Classifieds their cover letter and resume to to deliver The Auroran newspaper every Thursday. For more information call [email protected] Earn money while getting exercise. 905-727-3300 Contact Cephise 416-505-2770 ext. 10-2 Page 18 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 19 Page 18 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Thursday, June 12,THE 2014 AURORAN, - THE Thursday, WEEK MarchLY 16, SENTINE 2017 PageL - 719 2017 OPEN FOR BUSINESS THE AURORAN Progress Edition Introducing the AURORA Progress Edition Presenting the AURORA Progress Edition AnA nannual annua lreport report highlighting highlighting localloca lbusinesses businesses iinn AuroraAurora
Crupi’s Interiors prides itself onRolling cus tupom their se sleevesrvice Shoes for your full wardrobe By Angela Gismondi on the premises by Teresa. “It reaWithlly ai shuge a f aselectionmily- ronun cornerstone busi- brands like Clark’s, Blundstone, If you’re looking for custom drapery, ness,” sBirkenstock,aid Teres Merrel,a. “A Newll th Balancee wo randk Rockport, the Khamissas look for blinds and upholstery, look no further is done here at the productshop thatby willus .stand” the test of time. than Crupi’s Interiors in Nobleton. business, the Crupis have seen a Daughter Saarah, Mae and Raz Khamissa opened the business on King Road in lot of changes in their business the village 28 years ago. It started out and the surrounding commu- nity. By Brock Weir “Some of them won’t even bother,” says Mae, “but a pair of jeans years the Crupis decided they wanted should be as easy as possible. When they come here, they are going to specialize in drapery and blinds. A in NoTble tohisn bupastt iHallowe’en,t still has tMaehat Khamissa had a welcome surprise to nd brands that are not in the malls; a lot of the stu we carry is few years later they introduced custom when she opened up the door to trick-or-treaters. unique and di erent, and that is why we have unique customers. small town feeling,” said Teresa. I had one lady who came in and bought a pair of boots, but said she Standing before her was a familiar name on an unfamiliar upholstery and reupholstery work, hadn’t worn jeans in 20 years. Jokingly, I said, ‘I bet the rst pair you Whface.ile dr a pe elittlery s boy,tyles going hav efrom house to house dressed as a soccer try on you’re going to buy.’ She said, ‘No way!’ but guess what? She which now makes up the bulk of their changeplayer,d dra mwasat iproudlycally o vwearinger the a jersey emblazoned with “Omars has been coming back. We t her and she loves the idea that she’s business. Shoes” across his chest. years, one thing that hasn’t getting that personal attention.” changed Needlessis the se rtov icesay, a nthed atlittleten- boy got a few “I really love doing upholstery,” said It’s about doing one’s homework, they agree, extra pieces of candy from Ms. Khamissa, who Peter. “I love to work with my hands. tion to detail that Crupi’s prides and like actual homework, it pays dividends. itself oownsn. the popular shoe store with her husband, Raz, but it was yet another sign that Omars “Quality means they When it comes to clothing, Omars tries as “Wehas’ve madehad tthehe sleapam efrom cus- a simple shoe store to much as possible to source products produced what I really love to do.” tomeras multi-servicefor years, w Aurorahich is institution. nice,” are going to stand up by Canadian companies. ey are hard to nd in some cases, but it is important to provide cus- added TeRaz,resa. whose “We cfatherater tOmaro sec- Khamissa found- In addition to custom upholstery, well, they are going tomers that option. ed the store nearly 50 years ago, and Mae are Crupi’s is also a priority dealer for ond and third time homeowners rolling up their sleeves – literally – to further to fi t well, Quality, of course, is paramount when it enhance Omars’ growing reputation as comes to footwear. variety of drapery options. Both Peter Whay one-stopchoose forCr allup youri’s? wardrobe needs. more thanand a cu theystom useprod ugoodct. With a huge selection on cornerstone brands and Teresa are at the shop every day to “Manufa“ cet uclothingrers do n’partt do cofu stourom business is“I t’s abouqualityt person materialsalized like Clark’s, Blundstone, Birkenstock, Merrel, deal with customers one-on-one. Peter work –growing they d becauseon’t tak peoplee the tareim elooking to for conve-customer service,” said Teresa. New Balance and Rockport, the Khamissas look nience, particularly convenience in not having“Fro m beandginni won’tng to efallnd, apart,”you for product that will stand the test of time. takes care of all the delivery and in- do whtoat gowe tod othree,” Pe tdi er erentexpl astoresined. to“I t’gets di erent about things,”quality says an dRaz, wo cladrkm inan as hcolourfulip. We shirt fromare d ealing withsays one oRaz.r bot h “Quality means they are going to stand up couple works together to upholster and have th7 eDownie know St.,led onege a ofn dtheir qu popularality pr clothingod- lines.of us and nobody else.” well, they are going to t well, and they use good “It is comfort quality materials and won’t fall apart,” says Raz. reupholster furniture. All the sewing ucts. We “Twosell y weeksou wh agoat y Io uhad nee a dregular.” customerC rupi’s Interiors is located “It is comfort right from the start.” for the upholstery and drapery is done Whcomeen yo inu forsh oa ppair at Cof rshoes.upi’s yHeou said get he then ahadt 5870 Krighting R ofromad in theNob start.”le- to go up to the mall because he had to get a pair It is a philosophy that has t and stood of jeans and a belt. ‘Guess what, Mike,’ I said, ‘We up well to a rapidly growing and changing have that stu here,’ and he was thrilled. Att othe F riday from 9 a.m. to 5 market, and a philosophy they are instilling in end of the sale he le with a pair of shoes, twop.m. pairs an ofd Sjeans,atur da abelty f romtheir 9 a.m.younger daughter Saarah who is becoming more and more in- and a shirt. He said, ‘You just saved me going up there and to three volved with the family business. other stores.’” to 1 p.m. “We love doing what we’re doing,” says Raz. “I love the idea For Mae, the key to their success, when it comes to both that people come in and they appreciate the service they’re getting clothing and shoes, is getting that right t. Omars clothing sta from a small, independent store. I know it is getting harder and will now sit down with you, take a look at what’s currently in your harder for the small guys to keep up with the big box stores, but I do closet, and create a wardrobe for you to t any taste, budget,For and more size. feel that people in Aurora and Newmarket do love shopping in the 5870 King Road ere are certain things that are absolute nightmaresinformation for small stores because that’s what makes us a community. We will just Nobleton women, she says, with trying on jeans near the top of that list. keep working hard.” 905-859-4634 Rebate when you purchase† Pirouette® Window or to book an Shadings.Omars Shoes is located at 14800 Yonge St. – Unit 118. For more informationappointment call call 905-727-9391 or visit Effective May 1 until August 31, 2014. † Purchase 3 Pirouette® Window Shadings and receive a $200 rebate. Also, when you purchase any number of these additional shades, you’ll receive an extra $40 for each. Valid at participating www.omarsshoes.com retailers only. The rebate will be issued in the form of a Hunter Douglas Prepaid American Express® Gift Card. THE PROMOTION CARD is a trademark of The Hunt Group. All Rights Reserved. THE PROMOTION CARD is a Prepaid American Express® Card issued by Amex Bank of Canada. ® Used 905-859-4634 by Amex Bank of Canada under license from American Express. Page 20 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 21
SEAN HERBINSON Continuing to seek & life’s balance
What is it that makes it work? Culture. People are so tired of being involved in what I consider the old-fashioned capitalist mentality, which is so self -centred. Yes, we make a profi t at KW, but the profi t is shared between the owners and the individuals in the company who make the company grow. “I don’t think I have ever seen an organization that produces [a philosophy] like this.” By Brock Weir While this is a philosophy that resonates with so many, it is now hitting particularly close to home with the new local KW offi ce What comes to mind when you read, WI4C2TS? recently opened at the corner of Wellington Street and Berczy. For some, it might seem like a random set of letters or As an Aurora resident, Mr. Herbinson says he is delighted to be a mind-bending vanity plate, but for realtor Sean Herbinson it is located here in town. a business philosophy he shares with Keller Williams, his long-time base which opened up its local offi ce in Aurora just last year. “Aurora has always been a community that wants to deal with a local organization, and when I was in Newmarket it was a bit of Th e “W” stands for “win-win – or no deal” and the “I” stands for a stumbling block,” he says. “Integrity” and always doing the right thiWng. “Th e industry has changed. With technology there is, in some ways, less Next come the four Cs – Customers (they always come rst), and less reason to deal with somebody locally. However, if you have ever commitment (in all things), communication seen my smiling face around town, you know I have a local presence, it is (seek rst to understand) and creativity (ideas before results). just part of being a truly local package,” he jokes. Rounding out the motto are Teamwork, Trust, and Success. As the industry changes, so too does the local real estate market. “When Keller Williams (KW) came along, I thought, ‘Okay, they Currently, we are in “bubble territory,” says Mr. Herbinson. A year ago, he are talking the talk, but can they walk the walk?’ Th ey do!” says Mr. would have said we were in a market with “unsustainable continued growth” Herbinson, an Aurora native, refl ecting on his decision to make the but things just continue to accelerate as foreign capital becomes a major leap to KW. “I am in a very happy place. I love what I do, I make player in sales. Now, demand for homes is far exceeding the supply. a good living, but I am trying to achieve a healthy life balance. Part A believer in the cyclical nature of markets, however, it is a trend he says of my personal balance on the business end is to make sure the cannot be sustained. customer wins. “Is it dull? Absolutely not, and that is why I love what I do,” he says. “I have found that the easiest thing in the world is to sit down and have a “It changes all the time. e nature of my clientele changes and positive negotiation with someone. People have had enough of adversarial-style I have fun. I am not all on re to be the number one agent out there; negotiations and the feeling of being beaten down. It is like a breath of fresh I am quite content to take care of my customers. In the old days, air when someone off ers to see what can be done to make things work for I might have said, ‘I help to make their dreams come true.’ Well, let’s them. Selling your home should be an exciting and fun process. It is a major now call those dreams ‘life plans.’ is year, I expect Keller Williams step, but we can still enjoy the process – we’re going to get you moved onto in Aurora to enjoy great growth and I am just going to continue to whatever you want/need to move to and we can make it fun.” enjoy helping my clients here in Town while making sure their At KW, their philosophy is to “build careers worth having, to ‘life plans’ come together with respect to real estate. build businesses worth owning, lives worth living, experiences worth “I would love to sit down with someone who says, ‘I have it all in giving, and legacies worth leaving.” Achieving that starts at the top, balance.’ If you’re feeling true happiness, it comes from within. Life says Mr. Herbinson, noting KW’s structure of being an open book, balance, as far as I am concerned, comes out of that, if you go profi t-sharing company. It is a formula that is already showing a little bit with the flow in life, recognize that you want to go in a certain results. direction, recognize that you want to hit a certain growth, and enjoy the “We’re getting people sitting up and paying attention to us,” he says. process moment by moment. Also don’t beat yourself up if life isn’t going all “Universities are doing case studies on why Keller Williams is so successful. according to the plan. Lighten up.
“Personally, I will take a good dose of laughter and joy, as these are things that will take you well down the road to a healthy ‘life balance.’”
Contact Information offi ce: 905-895-5972 | mobile: 905-717-5234 | fax: 905-895-3030 | toll free: 1-877-895-5972 [email protected] Page 20 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 21
Finding the beauty within – and beyond
T hey say that beauty is a state of mind, but it is also a state of being – inside and out at Oakridge Outfi tters. When Deb Clark purchased the popular boutique last year, she was very familiar with the store as a regular customer, sure in the knowledge she was taking on a shop with a special “heritage” with its customer base. But she also sensed an opportunity to do so much more, not just within their Aurora S hopping Centre walls, but within the community as well. “We won’t let a woman walk out the door without feeling really beautiful,” says Ms. Clark. “ at is something this store is known for, but we have had a lot of conversations since I came on board on how we can take this to the next level. e question that we ask ourselves is, how do we make our customers feel beautiful and how do we, as a business, be beautiful?” Deb Clark
Ms. Clark came into the business almost by chance.
Previously in the fi eld of corporate philanthropy, she was an active volunteer at the Clothes Closet, the second-hand charity clothes shop at Trinity Anglican Church. While volunteering there, one of her colleagues suggested she would be a perfect fi t for Oakridge Outfi tters, a well-known local women’s fashion boutique for more than 19 years. Aft er some careful consideration, she excitedly jumped at the chance to marry her love of fashion and background of corporate giving into this new venture.
“It comes from a place inside of me,” Ms. Clark explains. “I have spent many years working in corporate public relations. My work always aligned very closely around the philanthropic world. I took over Oakridge Outfi tters because of my love of fashion, textiles, and helping women look wonderful. But it is really exciting that this business is also giving me an opportunity to invite customers into the joy of giving. Th at matters greatly to me.” Spring Fashion Show will support Southlake
In addition to fostering a strong connection between Oakridge Outfi tters and the Clothes Closet, customers will be invited into the store on March 30th for the fi rst in what Ms. Clark hopes will be a semi-annual fashion show featuring long-time customers modelling the new season’s line down the runway. Oakridge Outfi tters owner Deb Clark, left, with the in-store stylists who love to dress their customers: Debbie Booth, Patsy Statulak, Eva Chalk, Donna Grayson, Tickets are $25, with $20 from each ticket going towards Southlake Regional Health and Kimberly Ferry. Centre’s Stronach Regional Cancer Centre (charitable receipts will be provided) to purchase a new chemotherapy treatment chair. Th e evening will feature a number of additional fun activities ranging from raffl es for stunning outfi ts, to balloon popping for The Be Beautiful Spring 2017 in-store added discounts, all the while enjoying fabulous food and wine. Fashion Show-March 30 “We’re pretty excited about this event because it is an opportunity for women to come back to Oakridge Outfi tters if they haven’t been in for a while. At the same time, we can take another step toward encouraging the thinking that it is really great to dress and feel great, and it is even better if you do that while helping someone else.” Oakridge Outfi tters –More Boutique than Outfi tter!
Ms. Clark prides herself on Oakridge Outfi tters being a store for “every woman” with every budget, and she is hoping to signifi cantly expand both products and services in the year ahead.
Over the years, Oakridge Outfi tters has grown beyond its original roots in outdoor and sportswear to become a boutique with a full range of fashions for women of every age. Th e store carries an impressive roster of designers represented – from Canada and around the world – Michael Kors, Robert Kitchen, Cartise, Katherine Barklay UP! Pants, Renuar, Point Zero, Tribal, Bella Amore, M Made in Italy and Angela Mara, to name but a few. “I just returned from New York City where I secured fi ve stunning new labels for the Fall,” says Ms. Clark. “Don’t be fooled by our name – we are not outfi tters in the traditional sense. But we sure do outfi t women in beautiful brands for dress-up and dress-down occasions!” Customers Inform Our Buying
“We are also building out what I call a ‘partnership’ with our customers where together we can make the purchasing of our inventory even better,” she says. “I had a couple of women speak to me over the winter to say all the slim styled pants were not working for their body types. On my next buy, I sought out a draping trouser and now they are in store.”
As another example, Ms. Clark is working diligently sourcing items in larger sizes. As she looks through the garments on buying trips and appointments, she says she asks herself whether each piece would be a good one for a larger woman.
Th ere are many styles that might be available in larger sizes, but it might not be a good fabric or cut for a larger woman. Th at’s when she keeps looking. When she does fi nd ones that meet her discerning eye, they will be on Oakridge shelves. She has just completed fall buying and is looking forward to off ering beautiful styles for larger women. “I want a woman to come in and, in a very inclusive way, fi nd what she is looking for right on the same rack as the extra-small,” says Ms. Clark.
In a similar way, Ms. Clark is keeping a keen eye out for designers that appeal to younger women. “Aurora has a large infl ux of young mothers and career women who want to be dressed in certain labels and looks,” says Ms. Clark. “We are bringing those in and as a result, seeing more of these young women coming to us for the fi rst time. It’s exciting!” e bene t of having a store with over 2,000 square feet, according to Ms. Clark, is the ability to carry a wide range of options for many di erent women. It is not uncommon to nd a $39 top on the same rack as one that is $199. “We’re a store that is Aurora Shopping Centre trying to be not only every woman’s store, but every woman’s solution,” says Ms. Clark. “ at is challenging because that means nding styles and labels that t many di erent Oakridge Outfi tters is conveniently located at 14800 Yonge Street, budgets, ages, sizes and shapes. But it’s a challenge I love. with hassle-free parking, so you can avoid the malls. “We love trying to help a woman fi nd something that will work for her. And as a 14800 Yonge Street. Aurora, ON L4G 1N3 business, we love inviting our customers to join us in lending a helping hand in our Phone: (905) 726-4063 | info@oakridgeoutfi tters.ca community. www.oakridgeoutfi tters.ca “It is about being beautiful in what you wear, being beautiful in what you do, and being beautiful in helping others. We’re excited about that.”
Page 22 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 23 The Cowen Real Estate Team A name you know...people you trust
Ernest Hemingway once said: “Th e best way to fi nd out if you can trust somebody is to trust them.”
In other words, leaving more dollars in your pocket adding that by low-balling it, you may generate a large aft er commissions. volume of off ers, with only a few of them worthwhile.
“In working with us, you’re exposing your home to the “We price more realistically, so that those off ers you full market,” she continues. “We look a er all the receive are from people who are serious about your home marketing and work well with other realtors, which is key and can actually aff ord it.” to getting more eyes on your property.” Other actions to attract buyers – and more dollars By Neil Moore And once there’s interest from buyers – and the buyer’s – include everything from applying a coat of paint to usan Cowen’s clients have been following this sage agent – success depends on getting the best price. Which isn’t undertaking full kitchen and bath renos. And, of course, S advice for more than three decades. a task for the untested. home staging. An experienced agent can guide you towards a good return on investment, and help ensure you She has called Aurora home for 36 years, and has been “We have strong negotiation skills,” says Susan. “And don’t “over improve.” an agent with RE/MAX Hallmark York Group nearly as respect the other agents, as we need everybody to work long. Susan’s team includes her son Andrew – also an together to come to an agreement. But at the same time A realtor can also connect you with mortgage experienced real estate agent – and husband John, whose – through experience – we know when we can get more for brokers, contractors, movers, attorneys and home extensive corporate background upholds accuracy and the seller, or get a better deal for the buyer. It all comes with inspectors. “We’re able to advise and protect our clients,” he customer service. a deep knowledge of the industry, and our market.” continues, “because especially on the purchase side it’s very much buyer beware.” Th e real estate industry isn’t simply about buying and Andrew also continues to upgrade his skills, and will soon selling properties, it is about establishing trust. Which is be certifi ed as a “negotiations expert.” He attends national Susan adds: “Moving is one of the most stressful events essential in dealing with your largest investment – one that conferences, where agents share best practices to better serve in your life – we try to make it as painless as possible.” will impact your fi nancial well-being long into retirement. their clients. She is among the top one percent of RE/MAX agents in In a hot market like ours, where homes turn over But before any negotiation, proper pricing is essential. Canada, and has won numerous awards including the quickly, owners may think their residence will sell itself, An agent must fi rst do a market analysis, along with no RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award, and is a member making a private sale a ‘no-brainer.’ shortage of additional research. Property taxes, zoning, of both the Chairman’s Club and Hall of Fame. schools, shopping, transit and curb appeal are all taken into “Customers may think it’s pretty straightforward, but account. “I’m honoured by the awards, but it’s the this is a very complex transaction,” says Susan. “Th ere are referrals and repeat business that drive my passion for this many reports, forms, disclosures and other documents Andrew notes the average price in Aurora was $976,000 business,” she says. “And I know my territory – northern York – and you need to get them right to avoid delays or costly in December, a 27 percent year-over-year increase. But he Region – because I do the legwork, getting out to see the mistakes.” cautions sellers to have reasonable expectations. A wild new listings. I can pass on this fi rst-hand knowledge to my bidding war may not be your best option. clients, which helps us fi nd you the right home.” But, she adds, a good agent isn’t just about navigating paperwork, “We help you ‘net’ more from the sale of your “If somebody says ‘I received 20 or 30 percent over “Experience pays,” she continues, “we’re with you from home.” asking’ then it probably wasn’t priced right,” said Andrew, the start through to closing the deal – and beyond.
Cowen Team sales representatives can be reached at 905-727-1941 [email protected] or by visiting the website www.susancowen.com
FILLY & Co. – Out with the old, in with the new!
By Neil Moore
eighbourhood pubs may not be as right down to the studs,” said Catherine. Th e menu has freshened up as well, with the wine list. ubiquitous in Canada as they are “But kept the fl oor plan – we didn’t want to a selection of healthy salads like kale and “We have an excellent wine program. N in the U.K., but they’re popular for completely shock our customers. People say quinoa, or beets. A good selection of hand-picked labels from good reason. People like to get out and be when they come in, ‘It’s changed so much, “We’ve added duck confi t, which we make Ontario, Argentina, Italy and California.” social – and still feel at home. but it still feels the same.’ “ in-house – it’s delicious. And there’s our Indeed, Filly & Co. is a little more Aurora’s Filly and Firkin had been David rented the space in 1992 aft er chicken and waffl es,” she said. “We wanted upscale, but they haven’t strayed far from delivering that experience for 25 years, but emigrating from South Africa with his to keep it traditional, but elevate the menu. their roots. Which is evidenced by the many closed last August for a new look and new young family. He transformed it into a pub, Th ink outside the box a little.” fl at-screens televising sporting events. name. And aft er an extensive six-week opening as a Filly & Firkin, and had been Catherine also assures customers that pub Nonetheless, they are not a sports bar, makeover, it reopened as Filly & Co. a part of the franchise until last summer. favourites like shepherd’s pie, fi sh and chips, Catherine was quick to point out, but they “I absolutely love coming here,” said long- “I think it was time to go out on our own,” wings and nachos are still on the menu. And do like to cater to fans – especially during the time patron Marilyn Merrikan. “We’ve had said Catherine. “To make our own menu they’re proud of specialties like their chef’s big games. birthdays, baptisms, anniversaries… I had decisions, to choose our décor, and have the chicken curry. Th ey cater to families as well. Th e my 21st birthday here. Th e Filly has been freedom to do what works in Aurora. A lot of “We sell a ton of it,” she continued. Filly is kid-friendly, with a good selection of part of so many of our family celebrations.” places are becoming too corporate, and they “Not super spicy, but it does have some children’s meals that all come with ice cream. Many customers share a similar senti- should be focusing on their number one pri- heat. Th ere’s a great taco selection, and our “Being part of the town for 25 years, ment, having frequented the Filly in some ority – their customers.” burgers are fresh, along with house-made getting to know our customers and provid- cases for decades. Which is why pub owner She added that Filly & Co. still has the feel pies that are on our special board every day.” ing a warm, welcoming atmosphere makes David Myers and his daughter – and gener- of a traditional British pub. Freshened up, Filly & Co. also o ers a daily food and us special,” she added. “You can come al manager – Catherine Myers have been so yet still cozy. “As a result, we’re seeing a lot of beer special. Like $5 tacos and $6 Lot 9 in with your family – or alone. We may careful not to disrupt a winning formula. new faces, along with our regulars who have Pilsner from Creemore Springs on Tuesdays. have changed our look, but we’re still your “We did a complete gut of the building, been coming here for years.” Th ey’ve also stepped-up and expanded neighbourhood pub.”
General Manager Catherine Myers (and father David Filly & Co. general manager Catherine Myers, with The Filly’s traditional pub atmosphere continues There’s no shortage of beers and ales on tap at the Myers) recently reopened this popular Aurora pub staff member Vijay, await their next customer. to be a favourite among long-time patrons like fully-stocked bar after extensive renovations and a name change: from 14888 Yonge Street Marilyn Merrikan and Andrew Scheper. Filly and Firkin to Filly & Co.
www.fi llyandcopub.com Page 22 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 23
State Farm, Chip off the old block State Farm agent Richard Gong follows in his parents’ footsteps
By Neil Moore As Richard Gong likes to say, “Th e apple really didn’t Mart cashier and a jeweler’s assistant. Finally, a few years fall far from the tree.” aft er their son was born, she grabbed up a position as His mother, Lora Cai, has been one of Canada’s top a State Farm insurance agent. Her husband worked State Farm insurance agents for 25 years. alongside her. Richard grew up playing in her offi ces and riding Th at’s when their lives began to transform. shotgun on site inspection trips with his father. Now, Th rough 70-hour workweeks and sheer brute force, he is following in his parents’ footsteps. the couple raised themselves securely into the middle He opened his agency in November in the class. 142-year-old heritage home north of Yonge and “My parents put me through university at Queen’s, Wellington. allowed me to study abroad in New Zealand and His family’s journey to Aurora’s green-shuttered get my master’s at [the University of] St Andrews in Horton Place began a world away. His parents were Scotland,” Richard said. “I want to provide that kind born in northeastern China in the mid-1950s, shortly of life not only for my future children, but for the before Mao Zedong’s calamitous Great Leap Forward families of my clients, too.” at’s what State Farm sunk the country into a three-year famine. o ers, he added—security, though hard work. Richard’s father, Dick Gong, recalls sneaking pears Richard inherited his parents’ diligence and work from his neighbour’s trees as a desperately hungry boy. ethic. Together, the three of them gave new life to In their teens, Richard’s parents were two of the Aurora’s heritage home at 15342 Yonge Street. Th ey millions of urban youth whom Mao dispatched to labour opened up the entire second story to give the building on rural farms in China’s countryside. Th en, in 1977, as a spacious, airy feel. Th e exterior remains untouched to Mao’s successors began opening China up to the world, preserve the house’s history. the country’s universities ended a chaos-induced, Seated in his new offi ce, Richard said he is 12-year hiatus and started to accept more than a determined to provide not only superior customer decade’s worth of student applications. service, but also consistent community service. In Dick and Lora were among the masses that vied for November, he dressed up as State Farm’s mascot, the admission. Both made the cut. “Good Neigh-bear,” and danced outside his offi ce Shortly aft er graduation, Lora earned a scholarship throughout the town’s Santa Claus parade. to study for an MBA at the University of Toronto. She In December, he sponsored the Fred Penner found herself conducting market research reports on Christmas concert hosted by the Aurora Cultural products she had never heard of, let alone used, like Centre. In February, he cheered on contestants at his microwaves and Head & Shoulders shampoo. But by Snowball Toss booth during the Arctic Adventure this point she was used to braving blind curves. Family Day event in Aurora Town Park. Dick followed her to Toronto soon aft er, leaving “Because of my parents, I’ve seen what hard work behind a lucrative banking job in China to work as can do,” Richard said. “I’m eager to roll up my sleeves a delivery driver for fi rst a butcher and then a fl orist. For for my clients, and for my community, too. It’s in my her part, Lora pulled in paycheques as a Shoppers Drug genes.”
Richard Gong’s State Farm insurance agency is located at 15342 Yonge Street, just north of Yonge and Wellington. For more information, call him at (905) 727-6333 or go to www.RichardGong.com.
Oliver Heating and Cooling
Service you can trust since 1924
Desjardins, current owner of the business. “He’s highly regarded the wall of his modern showroom. He explained that some homes by the Historical Society of Canada.” still don’t have forced air ducting, or have a retro t that doesn’t quite cover all the bases. Like in some century homes where the Although Mr. Oliver had his hand in a variety of emerging second oor or addition has been shortchanged on insulation and/ technologies, he gave up automotive (under the advice of his or air ow. doctor) and focused on his mission – bringing modern conve- niences to local families. “ e cost factor of redoing a home’s ductwork can be huge,” explained Steve. “So one of the products “He bought one of the rst commercial refrigerators and that can overcome this is called a ductless split. It has its loved it so much that he ended up bringing the rst Kelvinator own indoor air handler with a small, high-e ciency fan, white-goods distribution into this area,” noted Steve. Mr. Oliver managed by a remote control. And it doesn’t require any saw how the slow pace of life at the time was accelerating, making sheet metal at all. Just a small pipe to the heat exchanger it fertile ground for such labour-saving devices. outside. You don’t need a window is also gave rise to the emergence of the oil burner, which – just a space on the wall.” would quickly replace wood and coal. “ is saved the time and He added that it is quiet, as major working components are hassle of cutting wood or stocking the furnace full of coal,” added outside. Steve. “ ey just had to ll the oil tank once in a while.” Steve Desjardins Industry leader Daikin manufactures most of their Mr. Oliver installed one of the rst in Aurora, beginning his cooling units, as well as their high-e ciency furnaces, which Steve ground-breaking work in the eld of central heating. explains are now up to 98 percent e cient. e motors now By Neil Moore Refrigeration continued to rise to the top of his enterprise – consume roughly the energy of a light bulb. o enter the bright and modern storefront of he even installed refrigeration equipment on 11 Canadian Navy “In a lot of cases, it’s below 90 watts, where a typical furnace T Oliver Heating & Cooling, you may not corvettes. A er the war, and throughout the 1950s T.H. Oliver would have been in excess of 600 watts,” he added. immediately connect with their rich continued to innovate, design and install commercial units. Some of the tech wizardry behind their low energy use is that history that dates back to the early 1920s. A history Air conditioning, however, came along much later. “It start- unexpected for a heating and cooling rm, as these furnaces are “modulated,” rather than either fully “on” or ed more as room cooling – window units,” he noted. “Central air fully “o .” Algorithms monitor previous heating cycles, and respond it includes pioneering work in a then edgling conditioning didn’t really make an impact until the mid seventies.” with just enough warm air to satisfy the thermostat’s set point. automotive industry, not to mention radio. Nonetheless, the business, which had been purchased by a Which can be set lower when air is moist. Steve noted that with Founder omas Howard Oliver was more consortium of engineers in 1973, showcased an innovative attic today’s systems controlling humidity, you can feel comfortable at inventor than “tinkerer,” although much of his unit called ‘SpacePak’ at one of the rst Aurora Home Shows. Steve lower temps. And this can be managed remotely. early e orts began with tinkering and resulted explained that many homes in the area were still on radiators and in such nished products as electrical storage other systems without ductwork. Which created a roadblock for “With a smart phone, you can completely control your heating batteries and some of the rst commercial radi- traditional central air. and cooling, your humidity, and you can set your programs,” said os in Aurora. He had gone to Pickering College Steve. “Complete control of your environment from wherever you with Ted Rogers, and shared his passion for this “SpacePak was a state-of the-art air handling system with are .” cutting-edge medium. high-velocity, two-inch ducts that would drop down through the ceiling. ey still manufacture and install these, but there are other “When you think of TH Oliver, it has always been a history “ omas Howard even developed one of the technologies taking over.” of rsts,” he continued. “We still pride ourselves on bringing the rst oil burners in this area, not to mention one latest technologies to our customers. Products that will make their of the rst portable refrigeration units,” said Steve He pointed to a golf bag-sized unit mounted at head height on lives easier.” T.H. OLIVER HEATING & COOLING 136 Wellington St. E, Aurora, ON, L4G 1J1 905-727-4258 | www.tholiver.com Page 24 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 25
Lorie and Sandra greet att endees at the Aurora Chamber Home Show.
The Aurora Chamber of Commerce team includes (front row) board chair Javed Khan and interim manager Sandra Watson, along with (left) communications and marketing specialist Crystal Walsh and Member Relations Ambassador Lorie Butkus-Hill. Thousands jam Yonge Street on the fi rst Sunday in June, during the annual Aurora Chamber Street Festival. Aurora Chamber of Commerce Gaining momentum, making an impact By Neil Moore
otivational speaker and writer Denis Waitley once said: “Last October we had our inaugural Tech Expo,” said Sandra. business community informed – and connected. M “You must welcome change as the rule but not as your “We were really pleased with it, and so were the exhibitors and Th e Aurora Business Advocate highlights the ACOC’s ruler.” Successful business people do this, responding proactively attendees. We’re delighted to be bringing this event back again business advocacy eff orts. Th e Aurora Business Network – rather than reactively – to a changing marketplace. So do the in 2017.” delivers curated business news and resources, including updates organizations that serve these businesses. Like the Aurora Also new is the Business Women’s Summit. Plans are for from business and government partners at the local, provincial Chamber of Commerce. a half-day event with keynote addresses by professional women and national levels. Th is non-profi t, which represents more than 600 on areas that are of interest to women – like fi nancial, health, Th e Aurora Chamber Insider features opportunities and members and the entire Aurora business community, has faced the business and education. Date and location are to be confi rmed, resources to maximize your membership. And lastly, the Event challenges of recession, recovery and altered shopping patterns. but the event is planned for early October. Update and Reminder features more than 50 Chamber events And it has responded with a new direction and leadership that – opportunities to network and grow your business. has enhanced their profi le – and infl uence. Th e fi rst three newsletters are published monthly; the Event “We’ve always been relevant, but we’re playing from a greater And the Business Excellence Awards are back, Update is bi-weekly. All include a cost-eff ective advertising position of strength than we were three or four years ago,” said after a fi ve-year hiatus. The committee is still opportunity. Sign up on the Aurora Chamber website. board chair Javed Khan. “Now we’re being invited to the party. working on awards criteria and other details, Th e ACOC is also active on social media (Facebook, Twitter, More and more people are reaching out to us for advice and with Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube), off ering additional channels opportunities.” but the event is scheduled for to promote Chamber initiatives, deliver curated content – and Th is includes local government. Th e ACOC has taken November 16 at King’s Riding Golf Club. promote members. a collaborative approach with the Town, which includes Chamber TV is a partnership with St. Maximilian Kolbe having Aurora’s CAO Doug Nadorozny actively involved with the Catholic High School. Th ese student-produced, YouTube video board. Th is spirit of inclusiveness has also been extended to other Spring will see the return of the always-successful segments present a variety of topics: Chamber news, upcoming organizations. Aurora Chamber Home Show (Apr 21-23), which is celebrating events, advocacy update and membership benefi ts. “We’ve introduced an ex-offi cio person on our board from its 30th anniversary. And on the fi rst Sunday in June is the Aurora Aside from events, government advocacy, networking and Sport Aurora, said Javed. “Now we have someone from the Chamber Street Festival. marketing opportunities, Chamber membership comes with sports and recreation community at our table. We fi rmly believe Th is annual favourite brings 30,000 attendees to Yonge Street additional perks. Like discount programs with national and local that local sports and business are a natural fi t.” from Wellington St. to Murray Dr., with street performers, partners, where savings can oft en cover the cost of membership. Th e Aurora Chamber doesn’t yet have a full time CEO, but music, food and more than 500 vendors. And this year, there’s a Some of these include Grand & Toy, Esso, Purolator and UPS. the volunteer board has been working hands-on with Chamber new twist. One of the most popular is the Chambers of Commerce staff , including interim manager Sandra Watson. “Sandra has Event organizers will be working with Activate Aurora to Group Insurance Plan that provides fl exible and aff ordable done an incredible job of revisiting our budget from a strategic expand the venue east towards Town Park. “It will be an coverage at stable rates. perspective – we’re really managing our expenses,” ‘open streets’ concept involving sports and recreation,” said “Th ere are still more reasons to join the Chamber,” Javed noted Javed. “Our fi nancials are moving in an extremely positive Javed. “Like three-on-three basketball, a baseball tournament added. “But you need to call us or drop by to fi nd out everything direction.” – everything will be activity-based.” we off er to help grow your business, expand your professional As are networking events and other ways to Last fall, the ACOC launched a digital initiative: four network – and get involved in the community. It’s an investment expose businesses to a local audience. reader-friendly newsletters that keep not only members, but the in your success.”
The Aurora Chamber of Commerce offi ce is located at 14483 Yonge Street in Aurora. For more information call 905-727-7262 or visit www.aurorachamber.on.ca.
Windows, doors, enclosures and more… By Neil Moore t is a wise decision to upgrade your Ibiggest investment – particularly when you consider today’s real estate market values. However, home improvements - in particular window and door replace- ments - are not just about increasing resale value and curb appeal. No doubt these do provide an immediate facelift , but even more importantly, they boost energy effi ciency and home comfort. Th ese are both key factors to consider when your focus is on living in, rather than selling, your home. George Hughes, owner of Lifestyle with energy-saving argon gas. “And there’s tionality, but a thermal advantage,” says Oasis, points out that today’s technol- a Low-E coating that stops the conduction George who points out that temperatures ogies have come a long way, and he of heat from one side to the next,” George inside the structure are warmer than suggests that customers do their home- adds. “You don’t want to refl ect the heat – outside. “In the winter months, you’re work before making this type of large just stop the conduction.” going to stop those draft s around your purchase. Like windows, which are precise- front door. Plus you have the added ben- “When people spend thousands of ly measured and custom fi tted, so are efi t of a sheltered area to store your boots dollars, they need to make an informed replacement doors. Lifestyle Oasis has and shoes out of the elements.” decision,” George continues. “I can go to 15 doors on display in their showroom, Other types of enclosures bring you your house with samples and talk about but the options go beyond these span- closer to the outdoors without the bugs, the diff erent options, but you really ning both fi breglass and steel. “Painted, rain and snow. George explains that even should come to our showroom. See and stained, no glass, decorative glass – with with a tight budget, these three-season feel the materials fi rst-hand and check and without sidelights,” are among the spaces can begin with a simple patio out their operation.” many options available to customers. cover. “In a couple of years, we can then Lifestyle Oasis showcases a variety of “You can have the best product in the add a screened enclosure to stop the bugs options in windows and doors at their world, but if you don’t install it correctly, from getting in. And later, put in a vinyl 240 Industrial Parkway South location. you’ll lose the energy effi ciency or du- sliding window system. Th is can be done In terms of windows, George points rability of the system,” he continues. “I in stages.” to displays of casement windows, helped write the Canadian standard for Railings are at the other end of the horizontal and vertical sliders. Some of installing windows, doors and skylights. budget spectrum but can really dress up these include magnetic and retractable My team follows this standard to make a porch or deck. George recommends a screens. All of the units are light years sure our installations are 100 percent. powder-coated aluminum system. “It’s ahead of the peeling wood-framed prod- We don’t use subcontractors.” a little diff erent than the one you’ll buy at ucts found on many of our homes, or George is proud of this distinction, the big box store,” he explains. “It begins their cold-to-the-touch aluminum alter- which has helped them earn a solid with a visit to take measurements which natives. reputation since he founded this busi- we then send to the manufacturer. Parts George explains that foam-insulated ness in 2003. Prior to this, he managed are then custom-made to the application.” frames are today’s cutting-edge technol- the home improvement program for “And then we install it,” George contin- ogy, with the frames themselves made of Consumer’s Gas, a $25 million program ues. “We do all that at the same cost as it rigid PVC. “Th ey get their strength from with 78 contractors. would be for you to buy your own railing the multiple chambers within. Th ese Lifestyle Oasis began as Lifestyle and install it yourself. Zero maintenance hollow spaces are injected with expan- Windows (which included doors). “Oa- – you just have to dust it once in a while.” sion foam to reduce heat transfer.” sis” was added in 2014 when they expand- He notes that although fi breglass ed the operation to include three-season Contact Lifestyle Oasis windows are popular, they are a ‘bulky enclosures and other products. at 905-726-4349 window.’ “Very strong, but there is a Today, they continue to design and install lot more material. Th ey don’t insulate windows, doors, screened enclosures, or visit the frames.” It’s not just the frames that sunrooms, and railing systems. www.lifestyleoasis.ca matter. Th e sealed glass units are fi lled “Porch enclosures off er not only func- Page 24 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 25 LENARD LIND Service with Professionalism for 27 Years
It’s been said that it’s a beautiful thing when a career and a passion come together. Not everyone can attest to this, but it defi nitely rings true for realtor, Lenard Lind, who has been passionately providing “service with professionalism” in the Aurora area for over 27 years.
enard’s early career began in the corpo Canadian “mini RE/MAX franchise”. started in the business, most notably, the Over the years, Lenard has established L rate world at Domtar where he spent Lenard’s passion for providing each client use of many more platforms to promote himself as reputable local business person ten years selling commodity newsprint and with his signature “service with professionalism”, properties than in the past. Lenard and his that people recognize and trust. Much of electrically insulated plastics. During his as well as a desire to continue to “raise the team utilize every medium possible to help his business is repeat and referral based, tenure he grew to National Sales Representa- bar,” were driving forces behind his pursuit of their clients sell and buy. a testament to his solid reputation. Lenard tive, proving he possessed the personality and an ISO quality certifi cation - the same quality “For me, the virtual tour is the biggest believes in giving back to others and the skills needed to build relationships and earn certifi cation used by Magna to produce their selling tool in todays’ market,” he says. community and is involved in the Aurora trust. In the fi scal decline of the late 1980s, car parts. “When it comes to fi nding the perfect and neighbouring Newmarket communities Lenard received early retirement from “I am the only residential realtor in home, the virtual tour gives buyers the contributing both his time and fi nancial the company. Th is provided him with an Canada to achieve this global designation,” he perfect opportunity to preview support to many local associations, kid’s opportunity to pursue his longstanding says with pride. a property before deciding if they want to sports teams, and charity organizations like interest in real estate, a career choice he had Th e ISO 9001:2008 is a series of take the time to view it in person.” the Yellow Brick House. ironically pushed aside years earlier for the quality standards that defi ne, establish, and No industry is without its challeng- He has also been a member and position at Domtar. He knew the real estate maintain an eff ective quality assurance system es and real estate, with its infl ux of director (1997) of the Aurora Chamber of sector was also aff ected by the economic for manufacturing and service industries. It is a “discount and less experienced sales reps and Commerce since 1992, where he enjoys downturn, but was up for the challenge and signifi cant investment in terms of cost and brokers”, is no exception. Lenard does not a reciprocal relationship. never looked back. eff ort but Lenard believes it is well worth it let this discourage him, and continues “I get a lot of business from my Lenard embarked on his new journey into and sets him apart from other realtors. to provide exemplary service with value Chamber colleagues. Business people real estate in 1989, starting with Re/max York “When mistakes are made in real estate, it’s added components such as experienced understand how much eff ort you put Group Realty Inc. and becoming an award very costly,” Lenard explains. “Clients can negotiating skills, superior marketing skills in. My clients oft en ask for referrals for winner in his fi rst year. Th en he tried to lead count on knowing that it just doesn’t that he knows many buyers and sellers will diff erent services as well and I usually by example while managing Aurora based happen in my o ce. ere is no potential for still desire. As well as being a registered direct them to someone I know through the Family Trust, where he outsold every agent something to slip through the cracks.” realtor and broker of record, Lenard is also Chamber,” Lenard says. “Word of mouth in the organization. HIs next move was to While Lenard’s hard work, dedication and a mortgage broker and Tarion-registered continues to be a very powerful marketing Sutton Group, the largest real estate company passion defi nitely played a signifi cant role builder, which allows him to provide far tool, even in this digital age.” in the community at the time. When his desire in his success and accolades as a realtor, he more services than the average realtor. Aft er more than a quarter century, to purchase the brokerage wasn’t an option, credits his staff as a key factor as well. “I’ve broken a lot of new ground in the real Aurora’s leading real estate professional Lenard made his dream a reality by opening “I could not have achieved the levels of estate industry with my vertical has no plans to slow down. “My practice is his own agency, Countrywide Success Real- success I have without the support of the integration,” explains Lenard. “I help thriving and I’m at the top of my game,” he ty. One year later, Countrywide bought Sut- people who work with me, My ‘Service with people make the biggest investment says. “I would like to spend time mentor- ton Group and Lenard owned and managed Professionalism’ promise begins at reception decision of their life and truly believe I am ing, teaching and consulting down the road. until 2001 when the franchise came due. Af- and continues all the way through the buying the most quali ed individual to do that.” I have acquired a fair bit of knowledge and ter more than a decade establishing a stellar and selling process,” he says. “I am driven to For someone who welcomes new I am more than happy to pass it on.” reputation in the community, Lenard opened exemplify what this business should be, the opportunities, one thing that hasn’t Lenard Lind continues to combine L.H. Lind Realty Inc., Brokerage in 2001, and professional level that the consumer should changed for Lenard in 27 years is his love passion and career - something most held the distinction of top selling agent in expect to receive and the only way to know for the town of Aurora, a place with a true people can only wish for - to provide his cli- Aurora for many years. In 2014, Lenard joined the diff erence is to experience it.” sense of community, where he continues to ents the best possible real estate experience the RE/MAX system becoming the fi rst A lot has changed since Lenard fi rst live and work. through “Service with Professionalism”.
Hallmark Lind Group Realty Ltd, Brokerage | 15105 Yonge Street, Suite 100, Aurora [email protected] | www.hallmarklindrealty.com | 905-841-0000
A Word-of-Mouth Success Story
By Brock Weir Just one bite will tell you that the products coming out of Th e Kitchen by Food in Motion are something out of the ordinary – and each tantalizing mouthful has led to a word-of-mouth suc- cess story here in Aurora. “Here” is an open concept kitchen and events space, Adds Danielle: “I think what is unique to our team is which has attracted parties, corporate meetings, and they all have a level of creativity. It is not just an a la carte A full-service catering and team-building exercises, fuelled by food. It is a warm and menu they follow. Th ey work with a client on every level to event space on Vata Court founded cozy atmosphere, and one of Aurora’s best-kept secrets, a build a menu that is personal to them. Th ey come together by John Cosentino and Danielle secret the Cosentinos are keen to share. with diff erent points of view and I think that is what really Greco, now husband and wife, stands out with our clients.” the business was founded on a “We off er an interactive space,” says John. “You can shared passion for the power come here for a meeting and not only do you get to conduct As their business grows, so too does their motivation to food has to bring people together. your meeting, you can walk around, see what the chefs are keep making it work. preparing and have a little Q and A with them. People “We are really happy we chose become really comfortable because they start sharing their “It is rewarding to watch something you have started Aurora,” says John. “We have own stories with travel and food.” become successful,” says Danielle. “Th ere is a sense of networked with a lot of great accomplishment in what you learn and connecting those people and, through word of Th e Cosentinos, and their chefs Kenny Msi and Jason dots to bring a successful business together.” Kwan, started the year off right. January, they say, is the mouth, we have built quite a Adds John: “I have just been falling more in love with good trust system with a large best January they have had so far, working with various clients in various sectors. In fact, the diverse backgrounds the business every single day because it is di erent every clientele, and I think Aurora single day. What I have learned about myself as a chef has really been a blessing. Even of the key players in Food in Motion ensures they can devise a menu to suit any taste or occasion. over the past year is we have the resources within us to do in the summer, when the Town anything we want. We are doing what we love to work and becomes a little quieter, we have “We spend a lot of hours together and I am very making it work, but there is still more work to be done. created programs to help people thankful day in and day out,” says John. “Th ey put in a lot We are thankful for everything that has happened thus far take away cottage picnic baskets of work to make Food in Motion grow and I hope that and we want to be able to stay focused and serve our away on weekends.“People are continues. Th ey are the backbone of the entire operation.” community.” bringing Food in Motion to the cottage and sharing the work we do here.” 905-503-FIMC (3462) [email protected] 4 Vata Court, Unit #4, Aurora, Ontario L4G 4B6 Page 26 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 27
Co-owner Martha Francis demonstrates the Silhouette Duolite, which provides two shades in one: a panel for light diffusion, one A variety of shades on display in the Sunshine Window Fashions showroom. for room darkening. Sunshine Window Fashions Window coverings and more for comfort, privacy – and style
Sunshine Window Fashions co-owners Anna Belanger (left) and Martha Francis with their Top Choice Award for blinds Gallery Speci c Materials | Newspaper | 2x5 | CMYK and drapery in Aurora/Newmarket.
By Neil Moore Gallery Speci c Materials | Newspaper | 2x5 | CMYK here’s no shortage of imagery and popular same goes for the hot side, as you’ll need to keep ing the right window covering. Something less home look lived in while you’re away. And every T quotations about windows – but not nearly the heat out. In either case, you may want some- opaque is needed, for example, if you have aOnly day At doesn’t Your have Hunter to be Douglasthe same. Blinds can be so many about what covers them. thing like a honeycomb shade or a shutter.” beautiful view of the backyard but need to dial programmed at varying positions throughout Unless you consider the Iron Curtain, or are Shades can be the costliest due to their in- back the intense mid-day sun. Gallerythe day – each day with its own, unique settings.” warned that it’s “curtains for you.” tricate construction. Honeycomb models, for At the opposite end of the spectrum would Aside from window coverings, Sunshine But even the ‘windows to your soul’ need a example, use at least two layers of pleated fabric, be a bedroom – particularly for shift workers – carries a luxurious bedding line from Revelle. covering, as do those in your home. And choos- sewn in a way that traps air within horizontal where full blackout may be needed. “Th ey supply high-end hotels and spas,” added ing the right option from among hundreds re- channels. Th ese “honeycomb” cells can vary in “With anything louvered, you always have Anna. “Touch the fabric and it’s just wonderful, Only At Your Hunter Douglas quires more than a quick trip to the hardware size and involve multiple layers to increase insu- light bleed – they never seal perfectly,” Mar- so comfortable – and it is made in Canada.” store. lation and light-blocking properties. Some even tha explained. “If you need it to be really dark, Upholstery and bedding may be more of a Gallery Whether you’re moving into a new home or employ a layer of foil beneath the fabric to com- you’re better off with a roller shade, a honey- sideline, but complements their window cover- redecorating an older one, you’ll benefi t from pletely block light. comb or Roman shade.” ings – especially where decorators are involved. consulting a seasoned professional. “Drapery also works extremely well,” added Anna added that if people fi nd any of these And, Martha points out, their product line isn’t “We begin by asking questions,” says Mar- Martha. “We can do thermal interlining inside options too plain, they can be dressed up with just for a high-income clientele. “We have op- tha Francis, interior decorator and co-owner if it’s very cold. Th is gives you even more pro- side panels. tions for many budgets, and will match the right of Sunshine Window Fashions. “What are your tection.” Window coverings have also been riding the product to your needs.” needs? Is it privacy; is it a really hot, sunny side Shutters used to be the most expensive op- high-tech wave, joining lighting, heating and Th eir business is a member of the Auro- of the house? Are you facing west or south? tion, and wood varieties, which can look very appliances as part of the ‘smart home’ suite that ra Chamber of Commerce, participating in Th ese things all determine what product will high end, still can be. But there are now excel- can be controlled remotely. the ACOC’s annual Street Festival and Aurora work best for you.” lent vinyl products, Martha explained which “We have a product called Power View, Home Show. And they are actively involved in Aside from draperies, options include blinds, have the look of wood without the cost. which can be battery-operated or plugged in,” the community, sponsoring local sports (Aurora shades and shutters. And what to choose largely “Th ey are now mid-range in terms of price explained Martha. “And it comes with a hand- Tigers, Aurora King Baseball Association) and depends on tastes, needs and budget. when you’re looking for window coverings. Th e held remote or wall-mounted controller.” working with Habitat for Humanity. Windows are a huge source of heat loss or new vinyl no longer has a shiny fi nish – it looks It can also be controlled by a smart phone or Sunshine Window Fashions has also been heat gain, so dealing with this comfort and en- more like painted wood than plastic.” tablet. Using an app, you create “scenes” to set awarded the Top Choice Award for top blinds ergy concern is oft en paramount. Anna noted that vinyl is best for kitchens the times that blinds open and close – and you and drapery in Aurora/Newmarket, for two “Esthetics are important, but you have to be and bathrooms where humidity is a concern. can adjust positioning with a fi ngertip. consecutive years. “We are very proud of this able to deal with issues that aff ect the enjoyment “It’s washable and more durable – good around “At 6 a.m. you want your blinds to open and and are grateful to our customers,” added Anna. of your home,” said co-owner AnnaGallery Belanger. Speci cchildren Materials – as you won’t | Newspapersuff er any paint chipping | 2x5 | wakeCM youYK up, but at 1 p.m. you want them to “On a cold side of the house, you’ll want at the ends.” close because the sun shift s and the room gets something that insulates,” added Martha. “Th e Light control is another factor in select- hot,” explained Anna. “Or you can make your
Only At Your Hunter Douglas Enhance the value, beauty, & Gallery comfort of your home
Your Company Name For the best choice in quality, style, value 123 Street Name and exceptional service, you'll find it all at a City, Province XXX-XXX Hunter Douglas Gallery. 123-456-7890 www.yourwebsite.com
© Copyright 2016 Hunter Douglas Inc., ® Registered Trademark of Hunter Douglas Inc., TM Trademark of Hunter Douglas 11232016
Enhance the value, beauty, & comfort of your home
Your Company Name For the best choice in quality, style, value 123 Street Name and exceptional service, you'll find it all at a SunshineCity, Province Window XXX-XXX Fashions 15461 Yonge St, Aurora, ON L4G Hunter Douglas Gallery. Phone:123-456-7890 (905) 713-2862 www.yourwebsite.com sunshinewindowfashionsaurora.ca
© Copyright 2016 Hunter Douglas Inc., ® Registered Trademark of Hunter Douglas Inc., TM Trademark of Hunter Douglas 11232016
Enhance the value, beauty, & comfort of your home
Your Company Name For the best choice in quality, style, value 123 Street Name and exceptional service, you'll find it all at a City, Province XXX-XXX Hunter Douglas Gallery. 123-456-7890 www.yourwebsite.com
© Copyright 2016 Hunter Douglas Inc., ® Registered Trademark of Hunter Douglas Inc., TM Trademark of Hunter Douglas 11232016 Page 26 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 27 Beverley Varcoe: Being “useful” goes a long way for clients
By Brock Weir or some realtors, the ultimate goal is to move you out “In the seminars, I recommend people take their F of your house and into something new – or small- deceased partner/spouse off the title as well as have legal er. But, Beverley Varcoe is not your typical real and financial advice and extreme caution before you put estate broker. In fact, as a certified Senior Real Estate a child’s name on your title [which can cause confusion] Specialist (SRES), Ms. Varcoe is focused on helping because you can only claim capital gains on one house. seniors stay in their home as long as they can. Power of attorney is a better way to go.” The SRES is a designation from the National Outside of organization, Beverley Varcoe also Association of Realtor focusing on the needs of the strives to make sure that all clients are fully apprized 50-plus and mature demographic. on the current state of the market. “After being in the business for an extended period Houses, she says, are currently selling for “way of time, I find the most important thing for me is to over asking price” and it falls to her to determine the be a useful person,” says Ms. Varcoe. “There are a lot potential worth given the market conditions of today. of real estate agents in the business and I think it is “We are in buyer gridlock because it is very easy to sell extremely important to be knowledgeable and willing a house and very difficult to find another house or Beverley Varc oe, Broker, FRI, CRES, to pass on the information I have learned, which will condo to buy,” she says. “Then, we don’t want you to SRES, MVA-Residential be extremely valuable to help someone get their home purchase before you buy unless it is conditional on the organized.” sale of your house, or you could possibly get yourself Beverley does individual complimentary home into a difficult situation. We have no idea where the Senior Consultations. market is going to go, but it [is being driven] from out Soon after Ms. Varcoe became a realtor, she of town and a number of different sources. encountered a number of people with a need for “At this point we are trying to be extremely accessible housing, particularly housing for the cautious with people, primarily seniors, selling their mature demographic over 55+. Their needs became a house only to discover, for instance, in Aurora we focus and over the last 25 years she has taken her skills have an extremely limited supply of condominium into different sectors, providing talks and seminars to sales and rentals.” get seniors up to speed on everything they need to Planning is the key to living worry free. Beverley know about selling to downsize, staying in their home, Varcoe is available to do market evaluations, and making either decision a well-organized process. complimentary housing consultations and well as Beverley does She focuses on getting clients to consider their seminars on “How To Be Organized In Your Home.” costs, their needs, and how to realise their goals. In The consultation and seminar topics include: individual some cases, accessibility is an obstacle but in many a chart on how much is my home really costing me, instances, it is a simple matter of making some ideas on how to make a home accessible, the brochures complimentary home modifications to the home. available from Canada Mortgage & Housing, the “So many people aren’t even close to being process of eliminating stuff, home repairs, home staging, organized,” says Ms. Varcoe. “By that I mean, taking reverse mortgages vs a line of credit, how to check Senior Consultations the stuff you have been collecting over the years and your credit rating and how to protect yourself from sorting it out so you are reducing your possessions mortgage fraud and title theft. down to 1,000 – 1,400 square feet, paint, redecorate, Beverley Varcoe is a member of the Real Estate and organize your paperwork [so] by the time you go Institute of Canada, the Canadian Condominium through this process you can say, ‘I am completely Institute-Toronto Chapter, the Aurora Chamber of ready to sell my house in the event of a fall or health Commerce & the Aurora Seniors Association. She is crisis and I don’t have to worry and can enjoy staying on the executive of the CARP–Aurora-Newmarket in my home.’ Chapter.
Royal LePage Your Community Realty, Brokerage 905-727-3154 www.beverleyvarcoe.com [email protected]
A personal approach Aurora Centre Pharmacy to your health care
“We like to think of people as guests, rather than just customers,” said pharmacist/owner Dan Muzyk.
phone. “Th e majority of the time, we are able to pick up the phone, so you connect directly with our team,” he added. Th is personalized treatment contin- ues with each customer being welcomed The Aurora Centre Pharmacy team: (from left) upon entering the store. And whether pick- Andrew, Shah, pharmacist/owner Dan Muzyk, and Alia. ing up a prescription for the fi rst time, get- ting a refi ll, or shopping for a headache prescription from your doctor. remedy, there’s always time for advice. Dan And although pharmacists do not had worked in a large-chain pharmacy for 21 diagnose illnesses, they can sometimes years, and recognizes the time pressures and circumvent a lengthy wait at a walk-in limited staffi ng that come with the clinic. Dan and Alia ready a prescription. territory. He takes a diff erent approach with his business. “People come to us looking for direction,” Dan explains. “‘Do I need to see a ties to the community, by sponsoring and “We get to know people by name – not just by doctor, or can I just get something over the volunteering with local sports teams, their prescriptions – and we know their family counter?’ a customer will ask. Th ey may as well as supporting various police members,” he added. “ ey’re treated like part have a rash, for example, and we have and school programs. of our extended family.” tablets and creams that may help. I’ll tell them that if this isn’t improving or Dan also speaks to local groups about One of their cornerstones is patient clearing up in two or three days, or it’s getting proper medication use and handling, counselling. An informed patient takes a worse, they should see their physician.” diabetes and heart health, and general more active role in their treatment plan. “ask your pharmacist” Q&A sessions. He According to Dan, it not only promotes With 25 years of experience, pharmacist/owner Dan Muzyk It is this one-on-one interaction also encourages people to bring in expired offers a personal approach to health care. compliance and understanding, but helps to – relationship building – that not only saves and unused drugs, along with needles and prevent dangerous drug interactions and med- time, but creates trust. And it’s a two-way other “sharps” for safe disposal. “Let’s keep By Neil Moore ication errors. Th is isn’t limited to the fi rst visit. street, as the team doesn’t just answer in- the house and community safe,” he added. coming questions but reaches out to pa- “It doesn’t hurt to have a word on the “Location alone does not always t Aurora Centre Pharmacy, tients where needed. refi ll as well,” he explained. “You may mention translate into a captured audience,” said Dan. A it’s all about premium patient care something they’d forgotten from the fi rst “Parents of children with an antibi- “I read this quote recently and agree – – with a personal touch. “We like to think of discussion like, ‘What time of day do I take otic will usually get a call back,” said customers are willing to travel to support people as guests, rather than just customers,” the pill?’ Our customers know that no matter Dan. “Or if somebody seems a little stores they perceive as superior. Some of my said pharmacist/owner Dan Muzyk. how small the question, we’re here to provide apprehensive at the counter – I’ll follow up in customers have moved away, but we continue answers.” “In our store, it’s about building relationships a couple of days to make sure there’s some to be their destination of choice. Health care improvement.” – you are never treated as just another prescrip- Dan’s experienced team off ers a diverse isn’t just about diagnostics and medications; it is about competency, good service, a caring tion.” Dan has 25 years experience, and with his skill set, which includes speaking Farsi Th e Aurora Centre Pharmacy team attitude, and building trusted relationships.” team has been operating a community pharmacy and Arabic, along with one member desig- is health-care focused. “It’s a simple in Aurora for the past four years. He strongly nated as a Certifi ed Geriatric Pharmacist. layout, easy to navigate,” Dan At Aurora Centre Pharmacy believes in the independent model, and his Th is brings specialized training in medica- explained. “We’ve chosen the we truly appreciate focus is on understanding a person’s unique tion management, nutritional and lifestyle top items (name brands and the community support. health care needs. “Th e reward is better out- modifi cations to optimize wellness in old- no-name alternatives), and have brought them Conveniently located at comes,” he adds. “And in general, a healthier, er individuals. “It is becoming even more to our store in reasonable-sized packages. I’ve 15420 Bayview Avenue, Unit C2 active community.” important as our population ages.” narrowed it down, covering most of the For further information call product categories. We can cover most minor Indeed, helping people on the road to Aurora Centre Pharmacy also provides ailments with the over-counter selection.” 905-503-4556 better health is personal, and it starts fl u shots, and now can administer a limited Or Visit with a simple gesture like answering their own number of vaccinations with a Aurora Centre Pharmacy has strong www.auroracentrepharmacy.com Page 28 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 29
Home Hardware: Not Just Hardware
provided the community. “Quality was number one [in sourcing our products] and It remains a philosophy that drives the business today. availability was number two, along with the colours we can work It has also helped Home Hardware hold its own in with. We work with people to get quality for a good price.” a market that is increasingly faced with competition from When you step into Home Hardware, you can browse larger big box stores. the wide range of cabinetry, countertops, toilets, and To that end, Aurora Home Hardware sensed an compete showers on display to fi nd what suits your taste, needs, opportunity – combining their renowned hands-on customer and budget. Th e customer service team works hard fi nd the service with more recent market trends to signifi cantly expand perfect fi t. their line of windows, doors and bathrooms, with a particular “If you came in and said, ‘Bob, I am looking to do focus on vanities. a renovation. What are we looking at?’ we would walk you through “Th at is where the marketplace is today,” says Mr. Clubine, everything to get to the point where you can get a quote from proudly surveying the fl oor of products from Classic Brand, a contractor and make an informed decision and get the best Rock Solid, and AHM, which have, in some cases, been value. customized and developed with Mr. Clubine’s keen eye. “Customer service is number one. We always work with our “We have customers as far away now as Prince Edward clients to get them what they need. We aren’t going to sell them County just through referrals. We are going aft er the interior something they don’t want! Because our customer service – even at design market, the contractors, which we have always had, head o ce – is above and beyond the big box stores, but also the special homeowner that is building a custom we are here for our customers and the service that is home. We have three good lines of good quality products; all o ered from this store is customer care you are not solid wood and just about any colour and any top they need. going to nd anywhere else!”
By Brock Weir
T here once was a time when Home Hardware was your fi rst destination to pick up a hammer or a box of nails. Th ose old standbys are still there for the do-it -your-selfers, of course, but the “home of the handyman” is now going well beyond the nuts and bolts of the hardware game. “It’s not just about the hammers, saws, lumber and nails,” says vanity manager Bob Clubine. “It is about one-stop-shopping. At Aurora Home Hardware, our new vision is the expansion of our kitchens, vanities, windows and doors.” For nearly 50 years, Aurora Home Hardware has served the residents of this community in three diff erent locations, always priding itself on the exceptional customer service the Barfi tt family, the long-time store-owners, and their staff , have
MR MENSWEAR Helping you make the right clothing choices
ike Rathke, owner of MR Menswear has been assisting Health Centre, the Stronach Regional Cancer Centre, the M men build fashionable and functional wardrobes for MS Society of Canada, the York Region MS Mandarin over 30 years. Walk-A-Th on, and various other local charities that e store has all your necessities from clothing support the fi ght against cancer. for formal events to business casual, weekend Last spring, Mr. Rathke revived his tradition of apparel, outerwear and accessories. a charity fashion show, recruiting his clients to strut MR Menswear’s current location was meant to be, says down the catwalk donning some of MR Menswear’s Mr. Rathke. most popular lines. Last year’s event bene ted both Southlake and the MS Society. In 1993, while living in Brampton, Mike was thinking of opening up an espresso bar in an old gas Th e tradition returns next month when MR station. He and a real estate agent drove up from Menswear teams up with NewRoads Chevrolet Cadillac Brampton and looked at the old Petro Canada station Buick GMC with Girls [And Guys] Night Out. Being on the corner of Yonge Street and Church Street. held at New Roads (18100 Yonge Street, Newmarket) with admission at $25. 100 per cent of proceeds will 20 years later, he moved into the exact location, which benefi t the Women’s Centre of York Region and the MS is now home to a beautiful new building with ample Society of York Region. parking – and a popular espresso machine available to MR Menswear’s fl ourishing clientele. Full circle. “I am very a very fortunate cancer survivor,” says Mr. Rathke. “It feels good to be able to give back.” “Aurora is a great little community,” says Rathke, who has lived here with his wife and two daughters since 1996. Mike has always been in the menswear business. Fashion and assisting gentlemen with their MENSWEAR clothing needs has always been his passion. Aft er graduating from a retail management program, MR Mr. Rathke started working at a high-end menswear store. While there, he fi ne-tuned his sense of style, the art of tailoring and service skills. “In today’s business world, it is hard enough to nd time for lunch and just about impossible to focus your time on updating, replacing or even adding to your wardrobe, says Mr. Rathke. “Unfortunately, few men have the time to build such a wardrobe.” Making the right clothing choices, and proper tailoring, can accentuate a man’s best features. Option 2: Let Mike help you with a wardrobe consultation all in the convenience of your own home. Aft er people hear Mike’s story about battling and beating cancer and going for his dream, Mike says, “Unfortunately, there’s not enough good stories, but I am one!” As a businessman, he works hard to do his part in ensuring good stories for others. In addition to helping gentlemen look their best, MR Menswear and Mike focus on the community in which he lives and works by making donations to Southlake Regional
MR MENSWEAR | 15117 Yonge St (downtown Aurora) 905.713.1501 | www.mrmenswear.ca Page 28 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 29
By Brock Weir
ast year, Backyard Pool & Spa Ltook what owner Don Smith describes as a “big gamble” in meeting customers’ needs within and beyond Aurora – it has been a gamble that has paid off as the business prepares to mark its quarter century with an expanded vision. Backyard Pool & Spa is celebrating 24 years in business in Aurora this year, and is one of York Region’s leading and largest pool and spa companies. In 2016 it became even larger, opening up their new expansive showroom on Vata Court. Th eir new space not only allows the customers to take in the full range of pool and hot tub product that have become a hallmark of Backyard Pool & Spa over the years, but envision a complete transformation of their backyard space with new lines of designer patio furniture.
“We want to be a complete shopping experience for all your backyard needs,” says Mr. Smith. “We invested in the bricks and mortar. It was a gamble to do this, but what we have achieved here as a team has paid off with our successes in the past year. Sourcing our quality designer patio furniture at competitive prices is a big thing for us now. It creates that one-stop shopping experience.” Th e full-service company has approximately 20 full time and part-time staff and serves York Region and surrounding areas. Th eir showroom features the complete line of MAAX spas, including the newest in their Power Pool Swim Spa line. Born and raised in Aurora, Don has been providing customers in the community – and beyond – with top quality above ground pools and spas for nearly three decades. He bought out his partner in 2007 and became the sole owner of the business. His two sons and his sister also work for the company, making it a true family-run business. Along with Weber, we carry With a background in retail and years of experience managing a big box store, Smith says he always wanted to open The Big Green Egg up his own business. Along with hot tub sales, Backyard Pool & Spa off ers year-round water testing with a full line of water chemistry products. Th ey also sell pool liners and safety covers, fi lters, pumps and heaters. Trained service technicians have years of experience in all facets of pool and spa service, including the opening and closing of pools and hot tubs. Many of the staff at the store have also been working there for years and are focused on individualized customer service to help people enjoy their pools, hot tubs and patios year aft er year. Th eir gamble is also paying off in other areas. For just the third time in their 24 years, Backyard Pool & Spa was named MAAX Canadian Retailer of the Year in 2016, an award which is measured on sales, customer service, and the investment one puts into a business. “It gives us pride of ownership,” says Don. “We had a very good year last year. A lot of companies are sometimes afraid to say that, but we did and it is nice for people outside the company to acknowledge that.” And they are. Backyard Pool & Spa was also named a 2016 “Retail Star” in the November 2016 Spa Builders trade publication. While Backyard Pool & Spa is happy with their 2016, they “Big gamble” pays off for Backyard Pool & Spa are looking to make things even bigger and better in the year ahead. and their customers Building on last year’s introduction of gourmet barbeque grills when they became Aurora’s only Weber Alliance deal- er, they have brought in a new line for 2017, including their revamped Genesis II series, which off ers an array of grills from entry point barbeques to top-of-the-line six burner models. “It gives the name brand of Weber with a fantastic pric- ing ladder,” says Don. “Along with Weber, we carry Th e Big Green Egg, the world’s most versatile charcoal barbeque. With precise temperature control, it can grill, smoke, bake and roast. A unique product, it makes us a destination spot for barbeque products. “We have been very successful in off ering big box pric- ing with hometown service. We’re not just a pool and spa company anymore. Our reputation comes down to selling quality products at competitive prices and we continue to provide knowledgeable service. We are experts in our fi eld and we continue to grow with our customers, off ering the latest prod- ucts and service ideas. I would like thank all our customers for their continued support.” Backyard Pool and Spa supports a number of local sports teams in the community, as well as charitable organizations such as Hillary House and the Aurora Historical Society, and the Aurora Food Pantry. Th ey are also active members of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce, participating in a number of events, including being a proud signature sponsor of the annual Aurora Chamber of Commerce Home Show. -with fi les from Angela Gismondi Backyard Pool and Spa is celebrating 24 years in business in Aurora. this year and is one of York Region’s leading and largest pool companies. The full-service company has 20 full and part-time staff and serves York Region and the surrounding area. Their showroom features the complete line of MAAX spas, along with the newest in Power Pool Swim Spa line from MAAX.
For more information, call 905-713-2317, email [email protected] or visit www.backyardpoolandspa.ca Page 30 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 31
Full team at Highland Many staff have been with the dealership for two, three and even four decades.
By Neil Moore nlike most purchases, when you buy a vehicle, you’re Highland GM’s lineup includes a full range of whole business package.” U starting a long-term relationship. Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac models. Aside from the usual departments you’d expect at a large dealership – HNL also looks aft er luxury vehicles like Porsche, Range Which can be daunting when you think about not only new and used sales, service and parts – they also off er a full Rover and Cadillac. the cost of a car, truck, SUV or crossover, but navigating the collision centre with computerized colour matching. worlds of fi nancing, warranties, rustproofi ng, maintenance Community outreach is another area where Highland and other extras. While their car is being serviced, customers can wait in scores high marks. Like many dealerships, they sponsor the bright, airy lounge with large fl at screen TV, or catch local sports teams, but have a larger philanthropic vision Th ere’s no question customers do their homework in up on work using the convenient desk space, with wireless which includes supporting causes that span children’s selecting a vehicle. Jennifer Copley, general sales internet throughout the building. charities to the arts. manager of Highland GM, agrees this has made them better informed than ever before. Some also choose to grab a bite at the Caddy Shack Café, Th e Highland team recently worked with organizers which serves a selection of fresh sandwiches and salads. of the Aurora Winter Blues Festival to transform their “But it’s ultimately about people,” she multi-level facility into a live music venue, complete with adds. “Who you do business with can be as two stages, a dance fl oor and loads of areas important as what you purchase. You want to On April 30, to mix and mingle. feel they have your best interests at heart.” join Ladies in Philanthropy for Southlake “Th e Aurora Winter Blues Bash was Which can be diffi cult in an industry where for the Celebration of a huge success,” adds Jennifer. “Everybody APRIL 30 involved is passionate about their music – high turnover is oft en the norm. Customers Spring Fashion Show. want to know that those involved in their but they also want to give back to our com- second biggest investment aren’t newcomers The event, which includes a raffl e, market place, SPRING munity.” Th e event saw more then 300 people to the business, and will be around to handle wine and hors d’oeuvres, will begin at 6:30 p.m. attend, and was a great kickoff to celebrate FASHION the Blues throughout Aurora in February. any future challenges. at the dealership; tickets are $40 “What makes us special is the longevity available online at aurora.snapd.com. SHOW Highland has also supported Polo for of our staff . It’s a great place to work,” says Heart, the Snowfl ake Father & Daughter Jennifer, citing a focus on work/life balance Ball, Aurora Chamber of Commerce, and All profi ts donated to the Southlake Foundation has been a major supporter for Southlake – and proper training – as keys to employee in support of Southlake Regional Hospital. retention. “We look aft er our people so that Regional Health Centre. Th is includes pro- viding a pace car for the annual Southlake they look aft er our customers very well.” Another distinct feature is Highland National Run/Walk, and other events. As Highland GM has been doing for nearly 50 years. Leasing (HNL), which unlike GM Financial, goes On April 30, join Ladies in Philanthropy for Which includes many staff who have been with the beyond the traditional dealership leasing model. dealership for two, three and even four decades. Southlake for the Celebration of Spring Fashion Show. Th e “If you are a contractor and buy a truck here, you can event, which includes a raffl e, market place, wine and hors “Th at same sense of loyalty applies to many of our also lease a backhoe or another piece of heavy equipment,” d’oeuvres, will begin at 6.30 p.m. at the dealership; tickets customers, adds Jennifer. “We have generations of families says Jennifer. “We have leased cranes, tractor-trailers, are $40 available online at aurora.snapd.com. All profi ts go coming back here.” a pumpcrete truck – we can help clients with their directly to Southlake Regional Health Centre.
While your car is being serviced, you can wait in the bright, airy lounge with large You may choose to grab a bite fl at screen TV, or catch up on work using the at the Caddy Shack Café, which serves convenient desk space, with wireless a selection of fresh sandwiches and salads. internet throughout the building.
Client Lounge
Come in, Relax and enjoy your next car buying experience with our team Reception of professionals! Caddy Shack Cafe
Highland GM is located at 15783 Yonge Street in Aurora. Visit highlandgm.com for more information. Page 30 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 31
Getting a kick out of fi tness
Tanya Williams measures success by the smiles she sees on her clients faces as they achieve their fi tness goals.
By Brock Weir
anya Williams measures success by the smiles she sees on T her clients faces as they achieve their fi tness goals. As a former Aurora resident, Ms. Williams made a home- coming this past fall, opening 9Round, a gym specializing in a 30-minute full-body fi tness circuit built around kickboxing. Finding an ideal location on Earl Stewart Drive in November, she says it felt “natural” to come back to Aurora because 9Round’s philosophy of off ering quick and fun fi tness routines for people of all ages was unique in the marketplace. “I was a member of 9Round before I bought into the business,” says Ms. Williams. “When I lived in Florida, they were growing quite rapidly and I loved what it had to off er. I loved the convenience of getting in and out quickly, the fact there was always a personal trainer there guiding and coaching me through the workout. When I moved back to Canada there was nothing really like that here.” But it was important to keep the momentum going. A few short years ago, Ms. Williams faced signifi cant health challenges. Aft er coming down with fl u-like symptoms, she experienced extreme fatigue, nausea, vertigo and was unable to work for an extended period of time. Not being able to drive or walk without assistance, Ms. Williams hit the books, learning how to incorporate diff erent lifestyle choices – from exercise to nutrition – into her every day routine. Doctors were unable to give her the answers she was looking for to help with her recovery. “It was a struggle for me, but I took it in my own hands,” she says, crediting exercise with helping to bring balance – literally and metaphorically – back into her life. Seeing those two pillars bring that same balance back into the lives of others, she found a good fi t in the 9Round concept. “It feels good to punch and kick something,” she laughs,
when asked why kickboxing-based routines appealed to her. “It builds your confi dence and it is quite empowering. We also have quite a few kids here and it is great to see how much they progress in a really short period of time; they come out of their shell, build their confi dence, and learn a little bit about inde- pendence.” Th ere are, however, some people who are still a little bit in- timidated at the prospect of winding up and taking aim at a punching bag. When people walk through the door for the fi rst time, there is a certain “look” people get on their faces, she says with a smile. Some might feel age or experience a deterrent in tak- ing on the challenge, but as soon as they give it a whirl those doubts dissolve.
“I try and help people understand it is not just about the kickboxing, it is about coming in and getting a really fun workout that is really results-driven,” she says.
“When they see the atmosphere, hear the music, see that the trainers are having fun and are really engaging with the members, they see it as a fun environment.” And the results speak for itself. 9Round has seen members losing up to 30lbs and inches lost in less than four months of being open. 9Round is founded on the principle that you don’t need more time in the gym, you need intensity, direction, focus and motivation. You walk in on your schedule, so you’re always on time, and you work with a trainer who knows your name.
“It is for everybody and every body type,” she says, noting membership extends from kids of 10 through clients beyond their sixties, athletes, former athletes dealing with injuries, moms, dads, and everyone in between.”
Trainers are equally diverse, off ering a variety of experiences and backgrounds, includ- ing a 3rd Degree black belt in taekwondo, 2nd degree black belt in jiu jitsu, 3rd degree black belt in karate, and a variety of experience and training with kickboxing and personal training certifi cations.
“I love what I do – nally. I feel like I have found my purpose in life, to really help people and make a di erence in their lives. Whether it’s just a place that can be an outlet for them to let o some steam at the end of a stressful day, or it is to help members lose weight and gain their con dence back, I just want to help in any way I can. I have the energy to come here every day because for me it is not work, I’m having fun.”
233 Earl Stewart Dr #13, Aurora, ON L4G 7Y3 905-251-4729 Page 32 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 33 La Jolie CHEESE SHOP Explore the folklore – and the fl avours
By Neil Moore also brings out more fl avour, which is fresh, fruity and fl oral.” Although milk is the main ingredient, it is the starter n an address to Stanford University, Oprah Winfrey once – unique microorganisms – that determine the fl avour and said: “Forget about the fast lane. If you really want to fl y, kinds of cheeses. harness your power to your passion… Trust your heart, and “It’s like a recipe,” she adds, explaining how a speci c strain success will come to you.” – Penicillium roqueforti, for example – was discovered in the Jane Kemp followed this sage advice when she left her Roquefort caves in France. Story has it that a young shepherd long-time career as a chiropodist to pursue her true passion had wandered o , leaving his lunch in a nearby cave. Months – cheese – with business partner Michael Welsh. Th e pair later, he returned to nd his moldy cheese. “Perhaps he was opened La Jolie Cheese Shop in Aurora in 2014. very hungry or curious, but he liked that taste, that punch, that “I have always loved cheese – I had a fascination with it,” piquant avour.” she said. “Each cheese has a story. When you’re eating one Which of course gave birth to Roquefort cheese, still made today, it could be very similar to what Napoleon may have once in these caves where resident mold in the air and on the walls, enjoyed.” gives rise to its distinctive blue-green veins. What Jane is referring to are the artisanal cheeses. Unlike Also, unique to any cheese is its outer coating. Th e rind can the “industrial cheeses” which she acknowledges do have a be inedible wax, or more oft en with the artisanal cheese, either place, these are made in small batches – a tiny fraction of the “bloomy” (white and soft , like Brie or Camembert), natural volume that would be produced by a large multinational. (dry like Stilton) or washed. Case in point is Keen’s Cheddar in Somerset, England, Th e latter involves bathing the rind several times a day which makes 30 “rounds” a week. Jane explains that with some with something as simple as salt water or as complex as cheeses, like cheddar, a round can be 5 or 10 kg, even up to 25 brandy or fermented pear juice. “In doing this, it creates a nice kg; others can be as small as 150-200 grams. environment for bacteria on the outer surface. Th is keeps it Th ese small producers, she adds, “reinforce the old ways, moist – it’s the perfect culture.” the traditional ways – almost like a slow food movement. Th ey She adds that by hand washing the rind, you eliminate the love and believe in what they do.” unwanted bacteria, while encouraging the desirable strains. As do Jane and Michael, who bring to Aurora cheeses that “Th ese cheeses can become stinky,” she notes, adding that otherwise wouldn’t be readily available. ey hand pick from enhanced bacterial growth on the outside creates a stronger worldwide sources, so that at any given moment there are 30- aroma than you typically fi nd on the inside, where fl avour is 40 selections behind the counter. “But over time, we’ve had more mellow. Like the brandy-washed Epoisses: “Th ey are more than 200 cheeses in our store.” famous, but have been banned from the Paris subway because Jane doesn’t hesitate to explain what makes each of these of their strong aroma.” special. Which begins with the intimate knowledge and What does she recommend for the less adventurous? Some hands-on care that goes into artisanal cheese making. of the younger, so cheeses can be very creamy and have a Keen’s, for example, uses raw, unpasteurised milk from mild taste. “It’s like in the movie Ratatouille,” she adds. “Some grass-fed cows that live on their 500-acre pasture. As they have avours strike a nerve in people – they bring back a fond been doing since the late 1800s. childhood memory. ere are certain notes in cheese that Some fl avours strike “Even if they’re not using their own cows, sheep or goats, are very speci c, very subtle. Like a Pied de Vents from the a nerve in people these producers rely on very familiar sources,” she notes, Magdalen Islands in Quebec. It has a so note of hay, very – they bring back a fond adding that they know how the animals are treated and fed. And mild. Even goat cheddar – we have one that is quite sweet.” whether or not they are content, because stress does make a She advises newbie cheese lovers to progress slowly childhood memory diff erence. because, “like wine, over time, people will want to challenge As does the time of day they were milked. “You can detect themselves.” a subtle diff erence between the morning and evening milking And with the advice and cheese lore from both Jane and because the milk is richer aft er the animal has held for longer,” Michael, fi nding the fl avours that speak to your palate she explains. “Also, what they’re eating and if they are pastur- – whether you’re a novice or a maître fromager – it is a chal- ing during the day.” lenge worth pursuing. Indeed, with these cheeses there are subtle diff erences between batches – “It’s like home baking with an ancient family recipe using hand-picked ingredients versus factory-made.” Th ere is also a seasonal ebb and fl ow. “Which is what cheese making is all about,” she continues. “You learn to appreciate 9 -2 Orchard Heights Boulevard how the seasons come through the ground to the cow to the Aurora, Ontario L4G 3W3 milk – and fi nally to the cheese.” In the spring and summer, for example, colour will be more 905.727.2772 vibrant. “Th ey’re eating more chlorophyll and beta carotene. Th is
North York Heating, Plumbing and Electrical Supplies Limited North York (NYHP) in Aurora has now been Heating and Plumbing serving the Town for over 53 years.
As a third generation family-owned and operated business since 1964, NYPH is committed to providing a superior shopping ex- perience, with a huge assortment of high-quality products and top-notch customer service. Th e company supplies the Great- er Toronto Area – and beyond – with fi xtures, faucets, water soft eners and furnaces. “We stock an extensive num- ber of items in our large warehouse and showroom,” explained Jeremy Parr, owner and operator of NYHP. “We have choice access in ordering anything in the product lines of the many national brands we represent.” Owner Anthony Cordell and Parr bought the business six years ago. Cordell’s father – Parr’s grand- father, Bob – started the business on Wellington Street in 1964. He then moved the business downtown to Yonge Street, near the Clock Tower before building the current location on Industrial Parkway South in Au- rora in 1977.
Th e building houses a sales offi ce, showroom, warehouse and sheet OUR TEAM metal shop. Left: Anthony Cordell, Cheryl Bradberry, Jeremy Parr, Justin Parr. Right Robert Cordell, Barbara Cordell, Linda Cordell, John Klerk. “Anything that’s made out of sheet metal, we can make it,” said Cordell, NYPH is committed to providing a superior shopping experience, adding they fabricate duct work, garbage pails and containers, but with a huge assortment of high-quality products also odd items such as fi re pit covers, squirrel guards, barbecue accesso- and top-notch customer service. ries, backsplashes and countertops.
The showroom is open to the “We know what we’re talking about if we don’t have it we can get it with- general public and contractors, but because we have been around for a in a day,” Parr explained, adding they the expertise is what keeps people long time and we give good advice. only sell quality items they can get the coming back. You get a little more attention when parts for. “We’ll take the time to get it North York Heating Plumbing and Electrical Supplies you come here.” for our customers whereas the other is located at 8 Industrial Parkway S. Aurora, and is open “We have a lot of experience,” guys won’t.” said Cordell, adding most of the “We also have obscure items that Monday to Friday from 7.30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from staff has been around for decades . you can’t get at the big box stores, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call 905-727-6401. Page 32 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page 33
ehind Flipside Apparel’s storefront the vibe is high energy. B Rows and racks of colourful skate, surf, ski and snowboard apparel catering to youth and the youthful – a shop that is as much about the look as the lifestyle, where snow meets surf. Once a kitchen and bathroom designer, owner Melanie Barfi tt purchased Flipside in 2014, and along with store manager Marcy Walker, they’ve created an environment that is anything but routine or corporate. By Neil Moore “Many of our customers, particularly teenage boys and young men, don’t always enjoy going to the mall,” said Melanie. “ ey can come in here and do a one-stop shop – it’s a more personal shopping experience.” Items span beachwear to jackets, hoodies to casual shoes, with every- “Herschel bags are also Canadian thing hand-picked for clientele who, like Melanie, appreciate active, outdoor and have been doing very well here. pursuits – or at least the clothing styles. Good quality, very clean look.” “Th ese are a lot of the go-to brands that I wore when I was younger,” And in continuing with her explained Melanie. “I’ve snowboarded for 10 years, I ski, and I’ve tried surfi ng. I’m not going to tell you I’m a surfer, but am drawn to the lifestyle – homegrown trifecta, Melanie like these brands.” mentions another Canadian brand – Koala – which is fi nding success on her shelves. She pointed to a shopper wearing what appeared to be a stylish fusion And although you may spot plenty of youngsters browsing the aisles between track pants and jeans. “Th e guys have been going crazy over these – which is no surprise considering its proximity to Dr. G.W. Williams High pants,” she adds. “Th ey’re apparently super comfortable, with amazing fabrics School – there’s also no shortage of more mature patrons. like stretch denim and chino – all extremely well made.” Melanie added: “We have men in their ies and sixties who have Flipside’s clothing lineup also includes kids’ outerwear, like snow pants, been wearing quicksilver board shorts for as long as they can winter jackets and gloves, overall spanning a wide range of ages. remember, and they are happy to stay in them” “And we are the ‘go-to’ store for people heading out on vacation,” Some of Flipside’s hot sellers include Saxx underwear for men. Th is said Melanie. “We keep board shorts and swim suits Canadian company was once featured on Dragon’s Den, and is becoming a in stock year round – with a larger selection in spring and summer.” North American sensation. “It has been a huge success for us,” said Melanie. “I can’t speak from personal experience, but they must be good because I can’t Even if holidays aren’t just around the corner, a trip to Flipside Apparel can at keep them in stock.” least put you in that frame of mind – which can’t be a bad thing when you’re still She also pointed to a display of trendy backpacks and duff els. suff ering through winter’s chill.
FLIPSIDE CLOTHING CO | 14845 Yonge St, Aurora, ON L4G 1N1 | (905) 727-0824
Every student participates in Pickering College’s Global Leadership Program
ickering College is an independent day and P boarding school in Newmarket for boys and girls from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 where every student participates in our Global Leadership Program. As part of our Quaker values, we celebrate diversity in all aspects of the school. Th is is reflected both in our Global Leadership program and Pickering College students are knowledgeable, in our commitment to a co-educational environment. skilled, confi dent and resilient. Our approach to We provide a nurturing, supportive and enriching education ensures that they are able to reach their 21st century learning environment for all students. full potential, achieve their personal and academic Our unique approach includes educating and goals, and deal effectively with the challenges of life. developing the ‘whole child’ through a focus on If you are looking for a deeper educational academic excellence, co-curricular distinction, experience for your child – an experience that sees character and leadership development. and inspires the unique inner potential of every We pride ourselves in providing an student – then we encourage you to consider individualized approach to student learning. Pickering College. Our teachers create a caring, Th rough the school’s fully-integrated Global compassionate, safe yet challenging environment Leadership Program, students study the world in which our students feel empowered to take risks around them in authentic ways that elicit and are encouraged to lead. their curiosity and wonder. Th ey explore global Book a personal tour today, or visit us at our challenges close to home, develop a deep Open House on Saturday, April 8 from 10:00 a.m. understanding of issues, and take action. to 11:30 a.m.
As a result of their studies, students develop valuable skills, including:
• Advanced academic ability • Time management and self reliance • Strong research and writing • Critical thinking abilities • Leadership and mentorship • Dialogue, communication and presentation • Design, invent and problem solve.
For more information, contact [email protected] Page 34 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 THE AURORAN, Thursday, March 16, 2017 Page PB
St. Andrew’s College
“We must be a great school that thinks it’s good, not the reverse”
By Brock Weir S t. Andrew’s College, the venerable Aurora-based independent school is basking in a healthy glow – and good health on all fronts, says Headmaster Kevin McHenry. Finances are healthy, enrolment is better than ever, and aft er 15 years of building and signifi cant capital campaigns, facilities are now better than ever. But, they’re not resting on their laurels. As the school prepares to launch its new fi ve-year strategic plan this May, St. Andrew’s is turning its health focus on the young men who proudly call themselves Andreans. “One of our action items is to ensure the students develop healthy lifestyles,” says Mr. McHenry. “With the prevalence of nutrition, mental health, physical health, academic health, and sleep deprivation in our society, this is one of the core pillars of our plan. We’re also keen on making sure our boys are prepared for healthy relationships. Oft en, when a mother or father, grandmother or grandfather come in, the question will be: ‘Boys’ school? Does that mean he will be inept in relationships?’ Obviously we have done a lot in that regard, but we can do better.” From SAC’s point of view, it is important to challenge the common perceptions of masculinity and the stereotypes that come with that, he says. At the same time, it is important to work against these perceptions and stereotypes to ensure boys can be the “full expressions of them- selves.” To that end, “SAC is able to tap into a rich, long-standing culture in which boys are able to explore, in safety, the breadth of the human condition, and their unique place within it,” said Michael Paluch, Assistant Headmaster and Director of Academics in a recent article. “At St. Andrew’s College, culture, artistry, and creativity are not labelled as feminine, but rather, these attributes are celebrated and promoted. Eloquence, both written and spoken, is expected. Self-refl ection and the quest for meaning is built into the fabric of the daily routine,” he adds. Th e number-one priority in their new strategic plan is academics. “Academically, we want to push the envelope so students are gaining the enrichment they need,” says Mr. McHenry. Over the past 15 years, the college has realized more than $60 million in campus improvements starting with the completion of their middle school and a gallery for student collaboration in 2003. Since Mr. McHenry’s appointment to Headmaster nine years ago, SAC has zeroed in on developing unique programs within its unique environment. Th e start of Mr. McHenry’s tenure coincided with SAC’s largest-ever capital campaign – the Not An Ordinary Place Campaign – of nearly $45 million. Since then, St. Andrew’s has developed the Yuill Family Athletic Complex with turf fi eld and baseball diamond; and the Centre for Leadership, Innovation & Performance, which hous- es the Wirth Th eatre with a thrust stage, 40,000 sq. ft . of business, engineering, and robotics classrooms, and an acoustically perfect band room. In addition to all this, the school also opened the La Brier Family Arena in 2014. “Our donors are generous, our parents have been incredibly supportive, and now we are at the point where we feel we have the best – or near-best – facilities in the country for a school like this. We are now going to ensure all our programs match our facilities.” Over the past 18 months, St. Andrew’s College has been working with parents, alumni (“Old Boys”), students, staff , and past parents to develop the path forward. Described as a “forward-thinking and innovative plan,” the goal is to ensure SAC continues to be recognized as one of the best boys’ schools in the world, a recommendation given to them in a recent CAIS (Canadian Accredited Independent Schools) accreditation. “Something that I and many others around here continue to rein- force is what we are striving to be,” says Mr. McHenry. “I always say we must be a great school that thinks it’s good and not the reverse. Once you think you’re great, you have the tendency to sit back and relax. We refuse to do that, so this is really our modus operandi. We want to work together to build this institution we’re all so proud of. But, we know we’re not perfect. We know there are things we can always improve on.” On this front, they measure success in a number of ways. e “incredible demand” for enrolment is a key indicator the school is heading in the right direction, with double-digit increases in “Our donors are generous, applications over the last ve years. O ering $2.5 million annually in our parents have been nancial support to families who need a little help has generated more incredibly supportive, and interest from around the world. now we are at the point “We have witnessed unparalleled growth over the last fi ve years, where we feel we have but we can’t, however, be complacent about our success,” says Mr. McHenry, emphasizing the importance SAC places on being an im- the best – or near-best – portant part of the Aurora and York Region communities. “We want facilities in the country to be a partner in this community,” says Mr. McHenry, explaining that for a school like this. two years ago, on the anniversary of their 90th year in the town, they We are now going to launched the D. Bruce Macdonald Scholarship for boys in York Region. ensure all our programs “Each year we accept fi ve boys through this program, one from every grade in 5 through 9. When people think about St. Andrew’s, we want match our facilities.” them to think we are great for the community, just as we are proud to be a part of the Town of Aurora.”
PHOTOS – Paul Mosey