September 05 2007 - Low

$1.00
Your Independent Local News Source
Vol 2 No 44
SEPTEMBER 5 2007
Public school
board to pay
thousands
for byelection
blunder
By Courtney Duffett
The Oshawa Express
After heated debate trustees
with the Durham District
School Board have decided to
bite the bullet and pay
$138,172.73 for a byelection
that should never have happened.
The board agreed to pay the
hefty price tag to the City of
Oshawa to cover the cost of a
byelection held in April after an
ineligible candidate
was elected to the
board in the November
2006 municipal elections.
“I have a real problem with what happened in Oshawa,”
said DDSB trustee
John Dolstra, whose
Larry
motion to refuse to pay
the city was defeated
at last week’s board meeting.
“The ministry should be
stepping in and taking a look at
what happened. I don’t believe
the rest of us should pay for
what happened,” said Dolstra,
adding that he puts full blame
on the city of Oshawa for the
error made during the 2006
municipal elections.
Dolstra says the school
board shouldn’t be forking out
the money for a byelection that
could have been prevented
from the very beginning.
“$138,000 can go a long
way in Oshawa schools,” he
said.
The issue arose after Julia
McCrea, one of the candidates
running for an Oshawa trustee
position, was elected during the
2006 municipal elections, then
later was disqualified because
it was discovered she was
employed with another school
board.
McCrea’s disqualification
led to a vacancy on the school
board,
which
the
school board chose to
fill through last April’s
byelection.
At the time of the
original
municipal
election
in
2006,
McCrea’s understanding of candidate criteria and eligibility to
run were at odds with
Jacula
what the Education Act
actually states, she said in an
interview with The Express.
McCrea thought that anyone
was able to run regardless of
their place of employment, but
unbeknownst to her the Mike
Harris government had changed
the election rules so that an
employee of another school
board cannot run for the school
board.
As a result of the byelection,
Michael Barrett, who was the
previous chair of the board, was
See BOARD Page 3
Photo by Jessica Verge/The Oshawa Express
CAW Local 222 holds a press conference breaking the news that sluggish trucks sales in the U.S. have made it necessary to cut 1,000 positions at GM’s truck plant in Oshawa.
GM truck plant to lay off
1,000 workers in new year
By Jessica Verge
The Oshawa Express
Last Thursday was an
emotional day for Lynn
Hogarth.
A 28-year veteran of
General Motors’ truck
plant, Hogarth’s eyes
brimmed with tears and her
voice quivered as she talked
about the company’s plans
to lay off more than 1,000
of her co-workers.
She and her fellow
employees
learned
Thursday morning that GM
is eliminating the third shift
of production at Oshawa’s
truck plant, leaving 1,200
people without jobs as of
Jan. 1, 2008.
The news came as a
shock to those on shift
Thursday morning, said
Hogarth, adding one young
woman, confident she’ll
lose her job, burst into tears
upon learning this.
“They’re our people,”
says Hogarth, of the junior
employees, all members of
the Canadian Auto Workers
Local 222, who won’t be
coming
back
after
Christmas holidays.
“This is a slap in the face
to the membership I represent,” says Keith Osborne,
Local 222 vice-president
and GM shop committee
chairperson, at a press conference at the union’s
Phillip Murray Avenue
headquarters.
Stew Low, director of
communications for GM
Canada, says the cutbacks
are due to a long-term plan
to balance production and
control the level of inventory. CAW is attributing the
job loss to the fact there are
too many trucks currently
sitting unsold in dealers’
lots but Low says he can’t
comment on the GM inventory on the market right
now.
According to CAW, last
year the truck plant produced more than 250,000
units of GM’s GMT900series pickups (Chevrolet
Silverado and GMC Sierra).
But Osborne says truck
plant employees just recently worked six Saturdays in a
row as overtime, something
he feels GM shouldn’t have
let happen.
And Chris Buckley,
Local 222 president agrees.
“Somebody in the
General
Motors
Corporation took their eye
off the ball,” he says.
Low also says of GM’s
five North American truck
plants (one in Mexico and
three in the U.S.) the
Oshawa facility is the only
one with a third shift, which
it’s had since 1993. The cutback means the 11 shifts
across the continent will be
reduced to 10.
But that’s little comfort
for Local 222 members.
“It comes as a complete
shock,” says Buckley. “This
affects our entire community.”
According to the CAW,
each truck plant job creates
See SHIFT Page 5
Grant helps
apprentices
By Courtney Duffett
The Oshawa Express
Oshawa’s apprentice students are
now
eligible
for
a
new
Apprenticeship Incentive Grant,
which was launched at Durham
College by Canada’s finance minister.
Jim Flaherty, MP for WhitbyOshawa, presented the first $1,000
cheque to Andrew Page, a Durham
College student who just finished his
second year as a plumbing apprentice.
The
new
Apprenticeship
Incentive Grant will provide $1,000
per year to registered apprentices
who have completed their first or
second year in a Red Seal trade program.
“I can’t underestimate the value
of skilled trades,” says Flaherty.
“We are fortunate we have such a
great facility here at Durham
College.”
Flaherty says Ontario is facing a
major demographic challenge with a
shortage of both people and skilled
workers.
“It’s a concern across the country,” says Flaherty. “And our gov-
ernment is taking
concrete steps to
help meet this
challenge.”
The government’s goal is to
create the best,
Photo by Courtney Duffett/The Oshawa Express
educated work From left: Patrick Dillon, business manager and secretary treasurer for Trades Council of
force in the Ontario, Andrew Page, Durham College president Leah Myers and finance minister Jim
world, he said.
Flaherty. Page received a $1,000 apprenticeship grant for finishing his second year as a
“This grant is plumbing apprentice at Durham College.
going to make a
real difference to those individuals Durham College has trained more ing the attainment of inter-provincial
who chose a career in the skilled than 20,000 apprentices. “We’re standards for the training and certification of workers in the designated
trades,” says Leah Myers, president proud of this accomplishment.”
The Red Seal program allows trades and occupations including
of Durham College. She says there
are 17 apprenticeship programs at students with a Red Seal endorse- construction electricians, iron workDurham College, 11 of which are ment to practice their trade any- ers, plumbers, machinists, cooks,
where in Canada without having to carpenters and more. Altogether,
part of the Red Seal trade program.
“This is one of the finest facilities write further examinations. It is there are 49 Red Seal trades coverin Canada,” says Myers, adding that affixed to a provincial/territorial ing about 80 per cent of the
since the doors opened in 1967, Certificate of Qualifications signify- Canadian skilled trades work force.
Prof named NDP hopeful
A university professor will represent the NDP party for the
Whitby-Oshawa riding in October’s
provincial election.
Dr. Nigel Moses will join
Oshawa NDP candidate Sid Ryan in
a campaign focused on education
and health care.
Moses, a Durham Region resident of five years who has lived in
Oshawa and Whitby, has taught in
several Ontario universities and
colleges,
including
Trent
University’s Durham College campus in Oshawa. Most recently,
Moses taught in the Department of
Social Sciences at the University of
Toronto at Scarborough.
Moses will be running against
incumbent MPP Christine Elliot,
representing
the
Progressive
Conservative party, and Liberal
candidate Laura Hammer.
“Whitby-Oshawa needs a representative that will fight to keep education and health care in the hands
of the public where they belong. It
is time to put an end to the broken
promises and ineffective leadership
of Christine Elliot and Dalton
McGuinty. Now is the time to vote
for real change by electing the NDP
in Whitby-Oshawa.”
Boy killed, senior injured
in two-vehicle crash
An 11-year-old boy visiting
from British Columbia was killed
instantly and his grandmother seriously injured when the car they
were in collided with a dump truck.
The victim is the 18th fatality
on Durham roads this year, compared to 21 fatalities at this time
last year.
On Aug. 28 at around 12:40
p.m., Durham police, Durham
EMS
and
Clarington
Fire
Department responded to the intersection of Concession Road 6 and
Enfield Road in Clarington for a
Page 2
report of the collision.
Witnesses reported that a silver
Buick Century had been traveling
west on Concession Road 6 when it
collided with a southbound dump
truck in the intersection. The driver
of the Buick, a 75-year-old
Bracebridge woman, was airlifted
to St. Michael’s Hospital where she
remains in serious but stable condition. Her passenger, an 11-year-old
boy from White Rock, B.C. was
pronounced dead at the scene. The
dump truck driver, a 42-year-old
Newtonville man, was not injured
in the collision.
The victim’s identity is being
withheld pending notification of
next of kin.
The roads were closed for several hours while police investigated the collision. Speed and alcohol
were not factors in this collision.
Investigators have not ruled out the
possibility that the car may have
disobeyed the stop sign and entered
the intersection without stopping.
Anyone with information is
asked to contact police at 905-5791520 ext. 5267.
SEPT 5 2007
Facility eases
patient transition
The Whitby Mental Health Centre
(WMHC) opened the doors last week to a
new facility aimed at reintegrating clients
back into the community.
WMHC opened their 6-bed Transitional
Discharge Unit, a short-stay inpatient facility located within the Gordon Street hospital.
The unit will focus on providing intensive recovery-based interventions and transitional support for patients recovering
from mental illness and/or addiction issues.
Clients will have access to an inter-disciplinary treatment team that includes a
caseworker, nursing staff, a social worker,
an occupational therapist and a consulting
psychiatrist.
The unit is expected to integrate clients
back into the community over a three- to
six-week period.
“Working together towards safe community living, the (Transitional Discharge
Unit) will bring opportunities for our staff,
clients and volunteers to demonstrate innovative practices in transitioning from inpatient status to living in the community,”
says Sheila Neuburger, vice-president of
clinical services at WMHC.
B O A R D From Page 1
voted in to fill the vacancy.
McCrea says it was unfortunate she had
to leave her position with the DDSB. When
she was elected, she was given a choice to
stay on as a trustee with the local board and
resign from her position with the York
District School board or resign as trustee.
Where she should have had about 90 days
to make her decision, McCrea says she felt
rushed as the DDSB moved quickly on it.
“I thought it was really unfortunate,”
says McCrea.
And as for the financial cost of the oversight, McCrea says that if the board made
the decision to hold the byelection when
there were alternatives, then the board
should be the ones to pay the bill.
Oshawa trustee Larry Jacula said that
his concern isn’t with the cost of the
byelection, but more with how Oshawa
operated the byelection. During the original municipal elections, Jacula had sent a
letter to the city explaining there was an
ineligible candidate. Later, he learned that
the city felt it was not their responsibility
to deal with it, which to him is unacceptable.
“The city clerk should be responsible,”
said Jacula. “If the city clerk had acted
responsibly, then none of this would have
happened.”
Even though the board agreed to pay the
bill, they have referred a motion to staff to
look into asking the Ministry of Education
to investigate the Oshawa clerk’s department to determine whether the error is the
city’s responsibility.
Board investigating
Oshawa’s election error
SEPT 5 2007
Page 3
School
board
learns
costly
lesson
It’s easy to see how Oshawa trustees
would put up some resistance to paying
a $138,000 price tag for a mistake some
say is really the City of Oshawa’s doing.
At the last board meeting trustees bickered about whether they should pay the
cost of the byelection to replace trustee
Julia McCrea. She was forced to give
up her seat as the York District School
Board official could not keep her teaching job while acting on behalf of a
school board in Ontario.
McCrea claims to have been unaware
of the eligibility requirement that a
board employee couldn’t be a trustee for
any other school board, a change
brought about by the Mike Harris Tory
government a few years back. She said
the school board didn’t give her much
time to consider whether she should stay
on as a trustee or not. Like her, we wonder whether the board could have opted
for less costly alternatives than paying
for the byelection such as allowing the
trustee with the second highest number
of votes in the original election to be the
replacement.
Better still to ensure this costly venture never happens again, the city, which
administers local municipal elections
and the board should make a concerted
effort to ensure that those aiming to
become elected officials meet the eligibility requirements. Or better yet, give
school boards a formal opportunity to
check that candidates meet the minimum requirements.
If someone intends to run for the
board, ensure they are no longer an
employee of another board. Even their
word promising to resign a paid position
if they are elected into office is insufficient insurance that they will do so.
School boards could formally communicate the eligibility requirements to their
staff when an election is called to
remove any doubts about who may run.
Conflict of interest rules should also
extend to exclude from the candidate
pools retired teachers and immediate
relatives and spouses of school board
employees. Too often boards have
included trustees whose families directly benefit from the policies and funding
initiatives that they vote on as board
members.
Having to pay $138,000 for the
byelection is an expensive and embarrassing lesson learned. When it comes
down to it a Ministry of Education
investigation into what happened in this
matter, as trustees are considering pursuing, may prove valuable in uncovering big holes in a system that could be
filled with a little common sense.
Page 4
600 Thornton Rd. S.
Oshawa, ON L1J 6W7
[email protected]
phone: (905) 571-7334
fax: (905) 571-0255
SEPT 5 2007
Volume 2, Number 44
Publisher
Greg McDowell
Advertising Director
Kim Boatman
Managing Editor
Wendy Gallagher
Copy Editor
Kim Downey
Contributors
Bruce Jones, Bill Fox,
Jennifer Weymark,
Kevin LeGrand
Renaming the highway
is the least we can do
Dear Editor:
I am writing in response to the
Letter to the Editor dated August
29 in which Bruce Wood of
Oshawa claims that we SHOULD
NOT rename the stretch of
Highway 401 from Trenton to
Toronto “The Highway of
Heroes.” I think Mr. Wood's
opinion is more political rather
than based on what the men and
women have fought so hard, and
lost their lives for. I could not
think of a more appropriate way
of Canada to say thank you to our
fallen soldiers than to rename the
highway. If Mr. Wood thinks that
a mere ceremony and a wreath or
two at a cenotaph, and maybe a
pat on the back is sufficient
enough of a thank you for the
men and women that died for his
freedom, then I am sorry sir but
that is just not enough. Maybe
Mr. Wood should check his dictionary and refresh is memory on
just what freedom means.
Coming from and entering into a
family that has military background in it, I cannot begin to
imagine the pain and the
heartache that these families go
through as their family members
come off that Hercules aircraft; I
would not want to go through
that. I have attended now so far
six repatriation ceremonies,
standing on the bridge as the procession comes down the HIGHWAY OF HEROES and I cannot
begin to convey the emotion that
I feel as the hearse passes beneath
my feet. It is sheer pride. It is
heartache and it is anger that we
have lost another one of our own.
It leads me to wonder if Mr. Wood
has ever been to the bridges.
(B) A person whose election will cast
out the incumbent administration
or:There are in today's political
milieu, there is not only one essential,
but four other and related questions.
(1) to vote for the candidate
(2) to vote for the political party
(3) to vote as referendum on the
party platform
(4) to vote for the leader of the party.
Firstly, voting for a candidate who
is subservient to a political party precludes his or her representation of the
interests the riding voters have in
common. The political party aims for
the ruling power, which may or may
not coincide with the best interests of
the riding. The successful candidate
is left to beg "goodies" from the leaders, which is only possible and not
guaranteed, if the successful candidate is a member of the 'majority'
party.
Secondly, voting for a political
party was at one time an honourable
choice. That was when the political
parties were clearly articulating a
philosophical position, such a liberal,
conservative, labour, etc.. Since such
distinctions are no longer compre-
hended by the majority of the electorate that choice becomes a sentimental one not requiring any
thought.
Thirdly, voting for a candidate of
a political party depending upon the
issues each party espouses means
being aware of the breadbasket of
special interests and the relative powers of each within the hierarchy of the
political party. That or picking the
one or two hot button issues and
ignoring the others which, in combination, may negate the hot button
issue(s).
Fourthly, voting for the leader of a
political party, in view of the inordinate powers that premiers have arrogated to themselves, seems the least
hazardous but also leaves the voter
without a representative voice in the
legislature.
The above may not satisfy everyone's definitions; however, it is an
attempt to assist voters, especially
and particularly, the new and young
in making their decision.
Lori Porter
Oshawa
Voters address questions
Dear Editor:
With the holiday months receding
into memory, we can only hope that
attention will focus on the important
choice to be made Oct. 10.
The health of democracies, of
whatever type and range, depends on
a wretched technical detail, that
being the electoral procedure. All the
rest is secondary. Rome at the beginning of the first century was on the
brink of death because she insisted
upon a stupid electoral system.
Without the support of genuine suffrage, democratic institutions are
empty, mere facades.
The prerequisites for a democracy
are first and foremost an informed
electorate. That does not mean that a
message has been broadcast or made
available to it. Rather that it has comprehended the message.
The choice primarily depends
upon what the voter wishes to
accomplish by casting his or her
vote:
(A) A person who will represent the
voters by holding an administration
of any party to account or
Ed Goertzen
Oshawa
Publications Mail
Agreement 41268024
Return undeliverable
Canadian address to:
The Oshawa Express
600 Thornton Rd. S.
Oshawa, ON L1J 6W7
ISSN 1715-9253
The Oshawa Express is a publication of Dowellman Publishing
Corp which is located at 600
Thornton Rd. S., Oshawa, ON, L1J
6W7 (905) 571-7334, Fax (905) 5710255, E-mail: [email protected]
All advertising and editorial
material published by The Oshawa
Express and Dowellman Publishing
Corp is for exclusive use of this publication and cannot be reproduced
elsewhere without prior permission.
Advertising Policy: Advertisers
must check immediately after first
insertion of their retail or classified
advertisement to ensure there are no
errors in the advertisement. The
Oshawa Express and Dowellman
Publishing Corp are not responsible
for second or further insertions of the
incorrect advertisement. Further, the
The
Oshawa
Express
and
Dowellman Publishing Corp are not
responsible for costs or damages for
a non insertion of an agreed upon
advertisement. The editor has the
right to edit, change in any way, or
classify an advertisement. The
Oshawa Express and Dowellman
Publishing Corp are only responsible
for the cost of the advertisement
space that is taken up by an incorrect insertion, except in the case of
failure to notify The Oshawa Express
of any errors after the first insertion
and then there would be no responsibility on the part of the The Oshawa
Express and Dowellman Publishing
Corp.
Letters to the
Editor
The Oshawa Express publishes
every Wednesday in the City of
Oshawa. Send us your comments, letters to the editor, suggestions. We’d like to hear from
you. Please write to:
The Oshawa Express,
600 Thornton Rd. S., Oshawa,
ON L1J 6W7
or email:
[email protected]
SEPT 5 2007
Student enrolment
climbs at Durham
College and UOIT
By Courtney Duffett
The Oshawa Express
Photo by Bruce Jones/The Oshawa Express
Harmony Road open in time for school
The section of Harmony Road in Oshawa between Olive Avenue and King Street was open in
time for school yesterday. The road had been closed to traffic during the summer as part of
an ongoing project to widen Harmony Road from Olive Avenue to Rossland Road to four
lanes.
Oshawa’s university and college are experiencing a hike in student enrolment this year.
The University of Ontario Institute of
Technology (UOIT) has 4,850 students registered, which is a 12 per cent increase over last
year’s 4,320.
“Any new institution has to prove its value
and its reputation,” says Jeff Macnab, associate
registrar, recruitment and admissions for UOIT.
“And our reputation continues to grow. It’s
great news.”
Entering its fifth year, the university has seen
fairly significant growth, said Macnab.
When the university opened, it saw only
approximately 900 students, all first-year students. The numbers increased as students
moved into second, third and fourth year and
more students entered into first-year programs.
“It’s excellent UOIT has been able to maintain the academic quality of a university,” says
Macnab, adding there are 19 universities in
Ontario. “This university has seen pretty rapid
growth.”
Enrolment should continue to increase in the
future, he adds.
Out of UOIT’s seven faculties, the largest
increases in enrolment are in the faculty of edu-
cation and the faculty of engineering and
applied science and nuclear engineering. The
other faculties include business and information
technology, criminology, justice and policy
studies, energy systems and nuclear science,
health sciences and the faculty of science.
Durham College’s enrolment is up by 5.6 per
cent compared to last year. The college currently has 6,071 students registered compared to
last year at this time when there were 5,049 students registered.
The college, one of 24 in Ontario, has seen
enrolment grow three per cent more than the
provincial average.
“This is good news,” says Paul Bishop, registrar for Durham College, entering its 40th
year.
“This is great for Durham College. We
always want to see enrolment growth.”
Durham College has 12 schools including
the school of business, community arts, design,
emergency services, health and community
services, applied sciences, career development,
continuing education, information technology,
integrated students, justice and school of skilled
trades and apprenticeship.
Out of the 12 schools of study, Bishop says
that the school of business is always especially
popular with students as is the school of health
and community services.
Shift to be cut
at GM truck
plant in 2008
SHIFT From Page 1
7.5 spinoff jobs throughout the region at companies that supply GM.
Buckley, Osborne and fellow press conference panel members Ron Svajlenko, skilled
trades area chair, and Greg Moffatt, truck plant
area chair, attributed dwindling sales of GM
trucks to poor markets in both Canada and
especially the U.S., where more than 70 per
cent of Oshawa-made trucks are sold.
For instance, Buckley says many GM
trucks are purchased by U.S. construction
companies but with the U.S. housing market in
a slump, there is little need for the crews to
buy new vehicles.
As well, Buckley feels some Canadian consumers are to blame for purchasing foreign
made cars, which he says negatively impacts
employment in Canada.
Buckley believes the government also
needs to throw more support behind the
Canadian automotive sector.
“Our government can’t sit idle and do nothing,” says Buckley.
Mayor John Gray, however, disagrees.
He also believes the layoffs are due to poor
conditions in the U.S. market but doesn’t
believe the Canadian government, both local
and federal, can do anything to improve that.
“We’ve ridden this ride before,” says Gray,
referring to the ups and downs at GM in the
past.
And Gray is confident that the automotive
market will get better.
While he says he doesn’t want to diminish
or dismiss the severity of these layoffs, Gray
says he doesn’t believe Oshawa will be in an
economic crisis because of it.
“Whenever there’s a blip at General Motors
there’s a reaction in the community,” he says.
But with programs geared at helping those
recently unemployed, Gray feels it will be possible for those who are laid off to survive.
Employees at GM’s Oshawa plant will
learn this week whether or not they’ll be on the
line come Jan. 1. Currently, those hired before
August 2002 are considered safe but the date is
subject to change.
SEPT 5 2007
Page 5
Senior officer seconded to
community safety ministry
A Durham police superintendent has been appointed to the
ministry of community safety and
correctional services in Toronto.
Durham Regional police Supt.
Bob Chapman will begin his new
responsibilities as a police services advisor this week in a public
safety division of the ministry,
which is a one-year position.
He will become part of the
ministry’s team that ensures that
police services across the
province are adequate and effective, and comply with prescribed
standards of services. This team
conducts inspections of police
services and advises police services boards, chiefs and police
associations to ensure that the
quality of policing in Ontario in tions to the safety and security of
maintained.
Durham Region and our nation is
“I am looking forward to a dif- exemplary,” said Durham Police
ferent challenge,” said Supt. Chief Mike Ewles. “It is only fitChapman. “It will be very inter- ting that he share his expertise
esting.”
and insights within the
Supt. Chapman said
ministry and our partners
he is hoping to pass on
in
policing
across
his experiences and
Ontario.”
knowledge to others in
Chapman
joined
the force and to learn
Durham Regional Police
from things others have
in 1979 as a civilian
been doing, all to help
courier. He was sworn in
with the safety and secuas a constable in 1980
rity of the community. Bob Chapman and after graduating from
He added it never hurts
Ontario Police College,
to gain more knowledge about was assigned to general patrol in
one’s profession and believes this Oshawa.
is a great step forward.
Chapman has held a variety of
“Supt. Chapman’s contribu- positions over the years from pla-
toon and divisional leader to
supervisor of the professional
standards branch to the first ever
director of employee services
responsible for human resources.
Promoted to superintendent in
2003, he became responsible for
the newly created Regional
Operations Branch, which included
communications,
9-1-1,
nuclear security division, regional
duty office, auxiliary police unit,
public order unit and regional
support services.
Chapman joined the regular
component of the Canadian
Forces in 1970 and also became a
reservist with the Ontario
Regiment (RCAC) in 1973.
He was promoted to lieutenant
colonel in 1994 and then commanding officer of the Ontario
Regiment.
The
regiment
won
the
Worthington trophy as Best
Reserve Armoured Unit in
Canada during his first year of
command.
He was then appointed commanding officer of the Trillium
Armoured Regiment in 1996 and
colonel in 1999 and in 2002, he
became the first assistant chief of
staff cadets, responsible for overseeing more than 17,000 army,
navy and air cadets in Ontario.
He is a now a recent retiree
from Canada’s Army Reserve
having completed more than 37
years of service.
Vandyk an
award-winning
homebuilder
If people are looking for a new home,
Vandyk developers offer some of the best living accommodations money can buy.
Vandyk is one of the leading real estate
developers in Ontario. This year they have
been nominated for the Greater Toronto
Home Builders Association award for their
newest project, the West Park Village community in Cobourg.
“Last year we won the award and we hope
to win again this year,” says Director of Sales,
Maurice Lellie.
They’re currently selling homes for their
West Park Village location and they are going
fast. The houses offered at that location are
bungalows with a Victorian Canadiana style.
They also have three storey townhomes
available in the Cobourg community. These
homes offer the buyer many state-of-the-art
luxuries. Out of the 450 lots the company
started with, more than 100 are already sold.
Phase 2 is now released with 38 lots and 20
townhome lots. Out of those homes, 25 per
cent are already sold.
“The homes focus on the kitchen and master bedroom areas because that’s where people spend the majority of their time when at
home,” says Lellie.
Lellie says if Vandyk homes sell you a
house they will give the homebuyer up to
$5,000 towards upgrades.
The West Park Village community is also a
leader in property management as well.
“15 per cent of the land will be parks or
some kind of green space,” says Lellie. “We
have strategically planned the area for maximum green space to make homeowners feel
as comfortable as possible in their new
home.”
Vandyk also boasts the highest number of
model homes out of any real estate company
in Ontario for interested buyers to look at.
“We have three fully decorated bungalows
people can come in and look at,” says Lellie.
“We also have two townhomes completely
furnished. We do this so homebuyers will
know exactly what to expect.”
Vandyk has been around for more than 25
years. They started building custom homes in
the Mississauga area. From there the company expanded to land development becoming a
leader in the real estate community.
“Several years ago our company even built
a home for Toronto Maple Leaf Tie Domi,”
says Lellie.
The Cobourg office hours are: Monday to
Thursday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays by
appointment only, and weekends 11 a.m. to 6
p.m. 1-905-823-4606.
Page 6
SEPT 5 2007
UOIT ponders name change
By Courtney Duffett
The Oshawa Express
What’s in a name?
If you are the University of
Ontario Institute of Technology, it
may be that there’s too much
awkwardness in it.
Oshawa’s university, which is
entering its fifth year, may be
changing its name.
The issue has been under discussion for about six months now
and will be discussed further for
the next few months, says UOIT
president Dr. Ronald Bordessa.
“I feel the name is a confusing
one,” says Bordessa.
He says the board is nowhere
near identifying viable new
names but says he wants to keep
the process open “because you
never know who will come up
with a good name.”
When the university was established, one of the earlier name
possibilities was the Ontario
Institute of Technology.
During original decision-making on the name, it was found that
high school students wanted to
see the name ‘university’ in the
title.
“Otherwise, students may find
it difficult to understand what the
institute is,” says Bordessa.
In the end, ‘university’ was
added to the name and “we ended
with a long name that’s hard to
say and a bit awkward,” he adds.
He feels the use of the word
‘institute’ confuses people.
“Most people don’t really
know what an institute is,” he
says.
New superintendent oversees facilities
David Visser
The
public
school board has
announced a new
superintendent of
education
for
facilities services.
David Visser
is coming to the Durham District
School Board from his most recent
position as senior director of finance
for Toronto’s Hospital for Sick
Children Foundation. Prior to that
he worked eight years as superintendent of business for the Durham
Catholic District School Board.
“The Durham District School
Board is well respected in the
province,” said Visser. “It serves its
staff and students well and I look
forward to continuing that in the
future.”
Visser will oversee the custodial,
maintenance, property and planning,
facility construction and alterations,
energy and mechanical design and
waste reduction and energy conser-
vation of the board’s schools, learning centres and administrative
offices.
Checklist for the next trip
Whether you're planning a trip for
business or pleasure, advance preparation is the key to a rewarding travel experience. Since it's never too early to start
thinking about travel essentials, here are
five simple suggestions to help get you
off to the right start:
1. A Little Goes A Long Way: Do
your research ahead of time and book
hotel reservations well in advance. Visit
brand-specific websites, such as
www.daysinn.ca to get the guaranteed
best available rate. Jot down the hotel
name along with your confirmation
number and confirm reservations prior to
departure.
2. Less Is More: Be sure to pack light
and right - the less you pack, the less you
have to carry. A checklist with different
categories will help you get organized
and ensure you fill your suitcase with the
necessities. Travelling with light luggage
will ease your trip and increase overall
comfort level while on the road.
3. Get Rewarded: Check with the
hotel to see if they offer a loyalty rewards
program such as TripRewards, designed
with the traveller in mind. Look for a
participating partner, such as Days Inn
hotels and earn valuable TripRewards
points during your stay that can be
redeemed for hundreds of great rewards.
4. Peace of Mind: Prepare yourself
for the road ahead and purchase a supplemental travel and health insurance
plan that will help protect you from
unexpected bumps along the way.
Always carry proof of insurance coverage and leave a copy of this information
at home with a family member or a
friend.
With just a little advance planning
and research, you'll be able to avoid
unnecessary delays and enjoy a stress
free getaway. More information is available at www.daysinn.ca or 1 800 DAYS
INN.
- News Canada
Here are the answers to the most
frequently asked questions on personal safety for women travelling
on business, courtesy of Melissa
Kenney, Director of Marketing of
Days Inns - Canada:
Q: Selecting the right hotel is
essential. What's the best way to
decide?
A: Look for female-friendly
accommodations close to your
meeting or event that belong to a
reputable chain like Days Inn. An
excellent choice for business trav-
el, Days Inn hotels offer a host of
business amenities including free
high-speed Internet access in every
room.
Q: Is it important to see the
hotel room before accepting it and
should I be concerned with the
location?
A: Avoid the ground floor and
request a room located near the elevator for added security as opposed
to the stairwell at the end of the
hall. Don't be afraid to refuse a
room if you are concerned about
your safety and ensure your room
has a deadbolt.
Q: Any safety tips to help avoid
dangerous situations?
A: Travel smart and increase
your awareness. Always meet business contacts in the lobby and don't
open your door to any unexpected
person. If someone in the elevator
makes you uneasy, get off at the
next floor and return to the lobby.
You can always ask for a hotel staff
member to escort you to your room.
- News Canada
Quick tips for women travellers
SEPT 5 2007
Page 7
Catholic board names superintendent
Ryan Putnam
The Durham Catholic
District School Board has
announced a new superintendent of business.
Ryan Putnam, the board’s
former senior business official, was appointed to the
superintendent position last
week.
Putnam has been an
employee with the board for
seven years, serving as the
senior business official for the
last two years and prior to
that, was the board’s comptroller of finance for five
years.
“I’ve enjoyed working with
the board for the past seven
years,” said Putnam.
“I will continue to work
openly and honestly with the
board,” he said, adding that
together the board can make
decisions that are in the best
interest of the students.
“Ryan will continue to provide our senior administrative
team and the board of trustees
with the business leadership
needed to make sound financial decisions that will benefit
learning opportunities for our
New alerting system ready
Some municipalities in
Durham Region will be implementing a public alerting system
to warn residents in the event of
a severe nuclear reactor malfunction.
The new system, which
starts this week, will provide a
means of quickly warning every
resident and business within a
three-kilometre zone of the
Pickering and Darlington
Nuclear Generating Stations.
Four sirens, which will be
installed in Pickering, and
another 14 sirens in Clarington,
are owned, operated and maintained by Durham Region and
funded by Ontario Power
Generation.
The new system is being
installed to comply with the
public alerting standard for notifying the public outdoors and
indoors within 15 minutes as set
out by the Province of Ontario in
the
Provincial
Nuclear
Emergency Plan.
Nuclear facilities in Canada
have operated safely for more
than 40 years. The Region and
its municipalities have comprehensive nuclear emergency
plans in place and with the completion of the public alerting
project, the Region can provide
greater assurance that the public
is protected in the unlikely event
of an emergency.
For more information on the
new public alerting system, visit
www.region.durham.on.ca.
Advertorial
United Way holds wing-fest event
The United Way is serving
up a finger lickin’ fundraiser
aimed at wing lovers of all
ages.
The charitable organization
launches its 14th Annual
Wing-Fest campaign Sept. 13
at the General Motors Centre.
All are invited to the event,
which begins at 5 p.m. with a
Page 8
silent auction and cash bar.
Feast on wings and help judge
the best in a friendly competition. Door prizes and entertainment by Two for the Show
are also highlights of the
evening.
Admission is $10 and
includes
20
tickets,
redeemable for 20 wings.
Children 15 and under, accompanied by an adult are free.
Additional wing tickets may
be purchased at $5 for 10 tickets. To facilitate food arrangements, call (905) 436-7377
with an approximate number
of attendees. The GM Centre
is located on Athol Street, two
blocks east of Simcoe.
students,” said Mary Ann
Martin, chair of the board.
Putnam is actively involved
in education at the provincial
level, having served as director of the Catholic School
Boards Services Association,
The Ontario Catholic School
Business Association and
executive member of the
Council of Senior Business
Officials.
“Mr. Putnam’s appointment
will complement the skills of
our leadership team,” said
Paul Pulla, director of education.
“Ryan has demonstrated a
high level of expertise and
professionalism and has the
collaborative skills that will
serve the board well.”
Deal or no deal, you have the power
The Ontario Power
Authority unveiled a plan
last November that will revolutionize the future of electricity production in Ontario.
The
Clean
Energy
Standard Offer Program
allows Ontarians to produce
and sell electricity and
receive a premium price for
the power they produce.
Electricity production
was exclusively the responsibility of the Ontario government until it was privatized in March, 2000.
Competition should have
generated lower prices and
better service but only a
classical capitalist would
believe such things.
People that can afford to
buy a windmill ($2,500$3,000/kWh) now have the
power to change the future
for everybody in Ontario by
increasing demand and lowering the price for renewable
technologies.
The standard offer for
small sources (<10MW) of
renewable power (except
solar PV) that are connected
to the grid will receive a
standard offer of 11 cents per
kWh and if reliably produced between 11 a.m. – 7
p.m. EST will receive an
additional 3.52 cents per
kWh.
Oshawa residents are
currently paying 5.5 cents
per kWh, so the OPA would
be paying you at least double
the current rate of electricity.
If you own a 1 kWh windmill that operated at peak
capacity for a 24-hour period, that electricity you pro-
duced would offset the cost
of 48 kWh or approximately
the cost of one day’s worth
of electricity consumption
including OPUC service
charges. If you are consuming electricity while your
windmill is spinning, then
you are consuming the electricity you are producing and
can only sell the surplus
back to the grid.
Phantom loads are another aspect of household electricity consumption that
needs to be accounted for.
Many items in your house
are using electricity even
when they are not operating.
Satellite boxes, standby
lights on TVs, computers all
draw phantom power 24
hours a day.
I have a watt meter that
showed me my 40-watt
stereo was drawing 11 watts
of power all the time.
I pay over $5 a year just
to have it plugged in.
SEPT 5 2007
Committee to identify ways
Water safe
despite odour to protect city’s water
Tap water is still safe to drink
despite its sometimes earthy, musty
odour detected recently in local
drinking water.
Durham Region works department says these “taste and odour
episodes” are a natural phenomenon
caused by seasonal biological
changes in Lake Ontario, the source
of the water supply. They typically
occur in the late summer or early fall.
Tap water supplied via the municipal
water supply system remains safe to
drink during these episodes.
The taste and odour is caused by
the presence of extremely low levels
of a naturally occurring compound
called geosmin. Geosmin is not
harmful to public health and the
Region’s water quality is not otherwise affected.
Simple home remedies may be
used to reduce the taste and odour in
drinking water, such as keeping a jug
of water in the fridge and adding ice
cubes or a few drops of lemon juice.
SEPT 5 2007
The treatment processes at the
Region’s water supply plants in
Oshawa, Whitby, Newcastle and
Bowmanville are unable to remove
all of these characteristic odours, and
they may persist in the treated water
from the taps. The Ajax water supply
plant has four granular activated carbon filters to reduce taste and odour
levels.
Although it is difficult to predict
when conditions will return to normal, “taste and odour episodes” will
generally dissipate after water temperatures in the lake start to decrease.
Lab testing of both the raw and
treated water confirms that its bacteriological quality remains unaffected
and that the water meets all Ontario
drinking water quality standards, as
set by the Ontario Ministry of the
Environment.
Residents who want more information regarding the odours can contact Durham Region works department at 905-668-7711.
Oshawa residents concerned about
the protection of municipal drinking
water sources have a chance to get
involved.
The
Central
Lake
Ontario
Conservation Authority is joining forces
with the Toronto and Region Source
Protection Authority and Credit Valley
Conservation to offer those living in their
watersheds the opportunity to join the
CTC Source Protection Committee.
The committee, which is being creat-
ed as part of the province’s Clean Water
Act, will be involved in plans to protect
municipal drinking water sources. The
committee will be responsible for determining the actions required to protect the
region's municipal drinking water
sources by working to identify and
assess threats.
Those with relevant experience are
invited to apply by Sept. 28 at 4:30 p.m.
and share their experience, knowledge
and interest in watershed planning and
municipal drinking water protection.
For more information about the committee, including eligibility and how to
apply, visit www.ctcswp.ca.
Page 9
Photos by Bruce Jones/The Oshawa Express
Gens training camp gets underway
The Oshawa Generals camp has begun exhibition games with its first home game on Sept. 9
at the General Motors Centre against Guelph.
Stars in the eyes of
a rookie General
By Courtney Duffett
The Oshawa Express
Anyone climbing the ranks of
junior hockey towards their ultimate
dream of an NHL career, knows that
trying out for an Ontario Hockey
League (OHL) team is as much a
privilege to celebrate as it is a stepping stone.
David Corrente, 16, appreciates
his good fortune and looks forward
to taking the next critical step in his
hockey career as an Oshawa
Generals rookie.
Corrente, a defenseman, was chosen as the Generals’ second round
draft pick this season. It will be his
first year inthe Ontario Hockey
League (OHL).
“I’m looking forward to it,” says
Corrente. “I’m excited to see what
it’s like.”
The 5’9” player comes to the
Oshawa Generals after playing four
years for the Mississauga Ice Dogs.
“I just love playing,” says
Corrente. “I love the hockey atmos-
phere.”
At the Generals’ first exhibition
Corrente says he’s been working game Sept. 3 Corrente managed to
hard since training camp started for contribute an assist in the 3-3 tie
the Oshawa Generals a week and a against the Mississauga St.
half ago.
Michael’s Majors.
“This is a big step in my hockey
“(Corrente) is a really solid
career,” he says, adding
defenceman, which you
training has been going
can never get enough of,”
great. He’s working with a
said Brad Selwood, head
great bunch of guys as well
coach and general manager
as great coaches, he adds.
of the Oshawa Generals.
His goal during training
“He’ll be a good player.
camp is to become one of
I’m very pleased with him
the top defensemen on the
so far.”
team.
Corrente has been play“I want to be noticed
ing hockey since he was
and develop as a hockey David Corrente six. His current hockey
player,” says Corrente. “It’s
idol is Thomas Keberle
going to be a lot of hard work.”
from the Toronto Maple Leafs,
This season he intends to contin- adding he aspires to one day play in
ue to work on his quick thinking and the NHL.
decision-making on the ice and work
But for right now, he wants to
on becoming a tougher, more aggres- focus on his plans with the OHL.
sive defenseman. He says playing in
“I’m a little nervous about the
the OHL will be more challenging year, but I’m excited to see what it’s
than previous years, as he adjusts to like,” he says.
the speed of play.
Currently, Corrente is training
He is already proving his metal. with about 32 other players. The
Photo by Courtney Duffett/The Oshawa Express
David Corrente, 16, is entering his first year in the Ontario Hockey League
(OHL) with the Oshawa Generals. The defenceman was drafted from the
Mississauga Ice Dogs.
number of players will be cut to
about 22 or 23 by the time the regular season starts. Oshawa plays its
opening season home against the
Sudbury Wolves on Sept. 21.Their
first home game in exhibition play is
Sept. 9 against the Guelph Storm.
“I have to hand it to our players
this year, they are in great shape for
the most part and I have to give them
credit for that,” says Selwood.
“What we really need to see at this
stage is their work ethic and desire.
Guys that really want the spots are
likely the ones who are going to get
those last few spots,” he says, adding
that he has some tough decisions
ahead of him in the next week.
Top Dodgers honoured this season
The Oshawa Dodgers have
announced their 2007 awards including pitcher of the year, rookie of the
year and the batting average award.
The Paul Quantrill Pitcher of the
Year Award for the 2007 season went
to Scott Robinson. He returned to the
team after being away last season. He
led the team in ERA, innings pitched
and strikeouts and was fifth in the
IBL and ERA, third among righthanded pitchers. In 12 regular season
games this year, Robinson was 2-2-3
with a 2.27 era. In six of seven starts
this season, he gave up two or less
earned runs. He was also named to
the IBL mid-season all-star team.
Kevin Wallace received the Gary
Carroll Playoff MVP award. Wallace
came on in relief in the fifth inning of
Page 10
game two against the Leafs when
they were up 5-1 in the playoffs. He
pitched five innings allowing only
one run and gave the Dodgers the
chance to get back into
the game. He came in
again in game four in
the ninth inning with
the Leafs leading 3-2.
The
Birnie
McGuire Season MVP
went to Oshawa
Dodgers’ Steve Lewis.
Lewis led the team in
batting average, on base percentage,
hits and stolen bases. He had 10 multiple hit games, including one game
tying the Dodgers team record with
five hits. Lewis was also named as a
starting outfielder to the IBL all-star
team this season.
Lewis also received this year’s
Ted McComb Batting Average award.
Lewis had the highest batting average
in the regular season.
He not only led the
Dodgers in batting
with a .374 average but
was sixth in the IBL.
The V. Christopher
on Base Percentage
Award was presented
to Lewis as well this
season. He has the
highest on base percentage in the regular season, of .464, which was also
third best in the IBL.
This year’s Max Reid Award for
dedication and perseverance went to
Brian Sewell. Sewell attended all but
one game this season despite suffering an arm injury and knowing he
wouldn’t be able to pitch. In his last
three years with the Dodgers, he’s
been hailed as the most dedicated. In
the 2005 season, Sewell pitched more
than 72 innings in the regular season
and started 10 games.
Darren Sawyers received the
Andy Stewart Rookie of the Year this
season. Sawyers was third on the
team in batting with a .270 average.
With 22 walks this season, he led the
Dodgers and was second in the IBL
bringing his on-base percentage to
.398. He was also named to the IBL
all-star team this year and as an outfielder made only one error in 47
attempts.
The Durham College Volunteer of
the Year award went to field manager
Mike Prosper. Prosper is described as
completely dedicated to the Oshawa
Dodgers this season.
The new Troy May “Mr.
Everything” Award is considered the
most prestigious award the Oshawa
Dodgers have. It is named after former Dodgers manager and founder
Troy May. He was involved in many
aspects of running this team. He
found sponsors, coached, managed,
recruited and in between it all,
coached his son’s teams and had a
full-time job. Phil Stone was the
recipient of the award this year. The
preparation for the season is a fulltime, year-round job and Stone took
the role on and is said to have done an
excellent job.
SEPT 5 2007
Mon. Sept. 10
Sat. Sept. 15
Free Spanish language lessons – Courtice
Secondary School, 1717 Nash Rd. in Courtice.
Starting Sept. 10, elementary students in Grades 1
through 8 can take part in activities such as
singing, reading and writing while learning
Spanish. Colourful projects about family, food
and vocabulary will be used. Call Micaela Arnold
for pre-registration at 905-579-4326.
Opera Pops – Faith United Church, 1778
Nash Rd. E. in Courtice. A collection of popular
and memorable pieces performed by some of
Canada’s rising opera stars. Tickets are $25 for
adults and $10 for students. For tickets call 905448-1320.
Tues. Sept. 11
Support group meeting for brain injured
survivors, family and caregivers – Head Injury
Association of Durham Region, 850 King St. W.,
Unit 24. Frank Murphy of Brain Basics will speak
from 7:30 to 8:15 p.m. The meeting will run from
8:15 to 9 p.m. For more information call 905-7232732 or 1-866-354-4464.
The Newcomers Club of Oshawa/Whitby
Welcome Meeting – Loblaws, 481 Gibb St.
Women new to the area or enjoying a new
lifestyle and looking to participate in social activities are invited to attend the 7:30 p.m. welcome
meeting. For more information contact Linda at
905-576-0585 or email the newcomers club at
[email protected].
Thurs. Sept. 13
Photo by Courtney Duffett/The Oshawa Express
Couple wins big at Autofest 2007
Debbie and Peter Nomm receive a cheque for $5,878.58 from Mike MacEachern, an Oshawa
West Lion’s Club member, after winning the 50/50 draw at the Autofest 2007 event in
Oshawa. The other half of the funds will be donated to the Grandview Children’s Centre.
Balloon rides
at Ribfest
Local residents have a chance to win a
ride in a hot air balloon at Ribfest this year.
Pilot Insurance is bringing its hot air balloon to Ribfest Sept. 7 to 9. Celebrating its
80th anniversary this year, Pilot is offering a
chance to win a flight for two in the balloon
or just a sample of what it feels like on a
tethered ride. The program aims to help support the Rotary Club of Oshawa.
Oshawa is the 15th stop on Pilot’s hot air
balloon program, which visits fairs and festivals throughout Ontario over a six-month
period.
The hot air balloon program has taken
more than 500 passengers on exhilarating
flights in its eight-storey tall balloon, while
thousands more adults and children have
enjoyed its tethered rides.
To give adults and children a sample of
ballooning, tethered rides will be available
at Lakeview Park at the ball diamond on
Friday and Saturday evenings and Saturday
and Sunday mornings if weather permits. An
optional charitable donation to the Rotary
Club of Oshawa is requested for the tethered
rides.
In addition, a lucky draw winner will be
invited to an exciting sunrise or sunset bal-
Durham PC Users’ Club Computer Sale
– Faith United Church, 1778 Nash Rd. in
Courtice. New and used hardware, software
and accessories for sale starting at 7 p.m.
Anyone looking to sell surplus computer
items can rent a tale for $5 by emailing David
Swain at [email protected]. Everyone
is welcome to attend the sale. Admission is
free.
Wed. Sept. 19
The Canadian Federation of University
Women, Oshawa and District Club meeting Centennial Retirement Home, corner of Ritson
Road and Hillcroft Street. The first meeting of the
season will begin at 7:30 p.m. This is an opportunity to meet the membership and learn about the
club. Refreshments will be served.
Tues. Sept. 25
Lindor Fashion Show – St. Stephen’s United
Church, 1360 Simcoe St. N. Sponsored by the
United Church Women. 7 p.m. Tickets are $7.
For more information call 905-576-9938.
loon flight for two during the Ribfest weekend, if weather permits.
Anyone 12 years or older can enter to
win. Ballots are available at W.B. White
Insurance at 110 King St. E. The draw will
be held on Sept. 6.
The 6th Annual Oshawa Rotary Ribfest
kicks off Sept. 7 at Lakeview Park with 10
professional “ribbers” from across Canada
and the U.S., showcasing their specialty for
three days. The “ribbers” with two new
restaurants represented this year, all vie for
the title “best ribs” and “best sauce.”
Along with the tethered hot air balloon
rides, Ribfest includes midway rides, a beer
garden, live music and family entertainment.
The yearly festival is organized by the
Rotary Club of Oshawa and raises funds to
support children and youth programs.
The event starts Sept. 7 at 2 p.m. and runs
until midnight. On Sept. 8, spectators can
dig in at 11 a.m. until midnight. On Sept. 9,
the festivities continue from 11 a.m. until 7
p.m.
For more information about Ribfest, visit
www.oshawaribfest.com. And for more
information or to receive a ballot, call W.B.
White Insurance at 905-576-6400.
Volunteers needed for
Celtic Festival this month
Oshawa residents of all ages are invited
to lend a hand when the Celtic Festival
kicks off this month.
The Oshawa Celtic Festival is looking
for volunteers to help out at the second
annual event on Sept. 14 and 15 in downtown Oshawa.
Students needing community service
hours are encouraged to take part, as are
SEPT 5 2007
qualified servers with Smart Serve and
those with first aid certification.
Volunteers are needed for the Running
of the Sheep and the all-day event in
Memorial Park.
For more information, visit the Oshawa
Celtic Festival website at www.celticfestivaloshawa.com or call volunteer co-ordinator Winnie Chapman at 905-448-8094.
Page 11
West Nile Virus
suspected in
second bird death
A dead crow is suspected of being Durham Region’s second bird
to have succumbed to West Nile Virus this summer.
Durham Region’s health department reports that a dead crow
picked up in Uxbridge Aug. 23 is presumed to have the virus. Test
results are pending.
The bird was picked up and then submitted for testing to the
Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Centre (CCWHC) in Guelph on
Aug. 27.
To date, the health department has submitted 25 birds for testing
with its first positive bird of the season reported on Aug. 21.
“Although this bird is reported as presumed positive, area residents are reminded to take precautionary measures to protect against
mosquito bites,” said Dr. Robert Kyle, Durham Region medical officer of health. “As the first positive bird was reported in Pickering last
week and now this presumed positive report from Uxbridge, this is
an indication of West Nile Virus activity in a number of communities, not just concentrated in any one area of the Region.”
To date, four human cases of WNV have been reported throughout Ontario.
To help minimize the risk of mosquito bites, the health department recommends avoiding areas with high mosquito populations,
taking extra precautions from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are
most active, using a mosquito repellent that contains DEET, wearing
light-coloured clothing including long sleeves, pants, socks and a
hat, making sure all windows and doors in the home have tight-fitting screens and getting rid of stagnant water that remains outside the
home for more than a week to help eliminate potential breeding sites.
For more information on WNV, call the health department’s
environmental help line at 905-723-3818 ext. 2188 or visit
www.region.durham.on.ca.
Most beaches open
Most of Durham Region’s beaches are open this week
after the water was tested for elevated bacteria levels.
Water testing results were received from the Ontario
Ministry of Health Laboratory in Peterborough for Durham
Region’s 15 beaches.
Beaches open this week include Beaverton Beach north
and south in Brock, Bowmanville Beach east and west in
Clarington, Frenchman’s Bay east and west in Pickering,
Lakeview Beach east in Oshawa, Newcastle Beach Central
in Clarington, Pickering Beach in Ajax, Rotary Park in Ajax,
Thorah Centennial Park in Brock and Whitby Beach
Whitby.
The three beaches that are closed this week due to elevated bacteria levels include Elgin Pond in Uxbridge, Kinsmen
Beach in Scugog and Lakeview Beach west in Oshawa.
Durham Region’s beaches will not be tested on a weekly
basis after this week due to the end of the summer.
For more information, call the health department’s environmental help line at 905-723-3818 or 1-888-777-9613 ext.
2188 or visit www.region.durham.on.ca.
See Last Week’s answers Page 15
Page 12
Mackenzie, 10, and Aberdeen, 5, are West Highland Terriers and although they can usually be found on their
leashes, they would much rather be chasing squirrels, or each other.
The Oshawa Express would like to remind its readers to still send
Echo Baby pictures in to run bi-weekly to the new Express Perfect Pet feature.
Parents are greatest educators
School has started for another
year and perhaps it is appropriate
that parents are reminded of a few
simple facts. Teachers are not miracle workers, though considering I
failed Grades 9 and 10, maybe some
of them are!
This is my 40th and last year as a
teacher, and I would like to think that
my observations might be useful for
some parents in preparing their children and young adults for school and
the ‘bigger world’. I certainly do not
have all the answers, but merely
offer some suggestions to try to
make this school year run a little
smoother.
Unfortunately, on meeting some
parents, I have seen where the student has developed some of their bad
habits.
Let me give an example. Many
students today are walking around
with earpieces of some description,
or cell phones that seem almost
attached to their person.
As a teacher, I believe I have
important lessons to teach, and I like
to have undivided attention in my
classes. Similarly, when friends or
family visit, I like to turn the TV off
and give them my undivided attention. This is not always the case in
all homes. We wonder why some
students don’t appear to be listening? Check out some of their parents. When visitors come into the
home do we turn off the TV and
music?
I also wonder why so many parents provide the money for students
to buy such items. Is the peer pressure endured by students so infectious that it reaches the parents?
Would a child not be a stronger person by learning that we don’t get
everything we want, and that life is
not always fair?
I have one rule in my classroom
that sums up all the other rules.
Respect! This is what I give my students, and in return, hopefully, I
receive the same respect back. Sadly
I don’t see all parents demanding
respect from their children, nor do I
see all parents giving their children
the respect each of them deserves.
Many years ago, I learned it was disastrous to call a child ‘stupid’. It was
more correct to indicate that what
they did was stupid. How many of us
are guilty of calling our children
‘stupid’?
I can say that I have never taught
a bad or stupid student. I have had
students that came from dysfunctional homes, where they got no
attention. Some of these same stu-
dents, like all of us, craved attention,
and affection, and some reached out
in outlandish ways to get it.
I find it sad that so many bright
students have difficulty with reading. Is it fostered and encouraged in
the home? Some parents let their
youngsters stay up an extra hour at
night, if they spend that hour reading. Do our children see us reading
books, magazines, newspapers?
Language in the home is certainly reflected by youngsters, as are
prejudiced or even bigoted ideas. It
is amazing how we can forget that
there are impressionable minds within our midst as we opine about issues
such as religion, politics, etc.
Are we environmentally responsible? Do we turn off lights upon
leaving the room, do we recycle, etc.
Can we expect our children to do so?
Finally, some advice given by a
principal to grade nine parents:
“Don’t believe everything your son
or daughter tells you about what is
happening at school, and we will not
believe 50 per cent of what they tell
us happens at home. In other words,
phone the teacher if you have a question or have a situation you need
clarified.”
Despite the bad press that youths
sometimes receive, I am energized
by the enthusiasm, intelligence, creativity and drive to succeed that so
many of my students display.
Please send your comments or
suggestions through email to
“BillFoxExpress”@hotmail.com.”
SEPT 5 2007
ARIES: March 20 to April 19
You Re- structure your everyday routines. Take excellent care of your physical body. Hire a personal trainer and
learn more about nutrition. Avoid taking
foolish risks. Socialize on the weekend.
TAURUS: April 19 to May 20
Find a new job or start a new business
that allows you to use your creative talents. Take time to enjoy fun and good
times. Coach a little league team. Finish
a house cleaning project.
GEMINI: May 20 to June 21
Multi-task oriented, you usually take on
more than you can handle. Deal with
serious issues concerning your home and
family, but also plan pleasurable outings
like a picnic or a baseball game.
CANCER: June 21 to July 22
Finances get a boost. You could get an
opportunity to earn extra money or have
some left over from your budget. Sign
up for a class or get involved in a community activity.
LEO: July 22 to August 22
Rather than spending excessively, look
for ways to curb expenses. This is a
period of short-term financial pain than
can lead to long-term monetary gain.
Write out your financial goals on Sept 12.
VIRGO: August 22 to Sept 22
Discover new talents, skills and personal strengths and set goals for new
achievements. More disciplined, it
should be easier to lose weight. Make
peace with your past.
LIBRA: Sept 22 to Oct 23
Visit a health practitioner and take positive steps to improve your health.
Schedule down time to look within and
get adequate sleep. Resolve regrets and
long time issues. Take up Yoga or Tai Chi.
SCORPIO: Oct 23 to Nov 22
Network with new business contacts.
Seek out a leadership position in a club
or organization. After Sept 11, your circle of friends will widen. Be open to
new investment opportunities.
SAGITTARIUS: Nov 22 to Dec 21
Your business life is in high gear after
Sept 11. Live up to your job responsibilities and do your job to the best of your
ability. Seek out people in positions of
power who can help put your career into orbit.
CAPRICORN: Dec 21 to Jan 19
Money will flow much easier after Sept
8. Learn all you can about other cultures. Plan a trip of a lifetime. You
might have to travel on short notice re. a
business matter.
AQUARIUS: Jan 19 to Feb 19
Either your family income is reduced or
you have to take on added financial burdens. Protect your resources and control
any impulse to over spend. Schedule
get-togethers with friends and associates.
PISCES: Feb 19 to March 20
Soothe hurt feelings and repair difficulties that have developed in a relationship. You get a new start in one to one
relationships on Sept 11. Enjoy special
time with your partner.
This Stars Say is provided by Joan Ann of Oshawa. For personal readings, call 905-725-9179
or visit her website at www.astroconsultation.com
India’s independence
celebrated in Durham
Durham police joined
members of the community in celebrating the
60th anniversary of
India’s independence.
Deputy chief Sherry
Whiteway and Inspector
Jim Douglass, of the
Durham Regional Police
Service (DRPS), were
among the local dignitaries and members of
the
Indo-Canadian
Cultural Association of
Durham Inc. (ICCAD)
gathered at City Hall in
Pickering for a flagraising ceremony, followed by a celebration
Deputy Chief Sherry Whiteway and Inspector Douglass accept an
of India’s culture.
“DRPS is proud to appreciation plaque from the Indo-Canadian Cultural Association
partner with the ICCAD of Durham Inc.
“It’s thrilling to see so many Canadians
in commemorating the 60th anniversary,”
to
celebrate
our
Diamond
said Whiteway. “The ICCAD’s commit- here
ment to keeping their culture strong, cele- Anniversary,” said Shashi Bhatia, president
brating their history, while welcoming of ICCAD. “Being members of a communiours, has formed a great partnership in ty that encourages such a diverse cultural
fabric makes us proud to be called IndoDurham Region.”
The ICCAD’s goal is to promote under- Canadians.”
For more information on ICCAD, visit
standing, goodwill, respect and appreciation between the people of India and their website at www.iccadi.org or
www.drps.ca.
Canada.
PRIZE: Bring in your completed and correct Express Crossword puzzle before the answers run in the following Wednesday
edition and you will receive an Express mug. Limit is one mug per person for the year. Last week’s answers are on page 15.
SEPT 5 2007
Page 13
FINANCIAL
FINANCIAL
FINANCIAL
FINANCIAL
FINANCIAL
EMPLOYMENT
RELIABLE
PAINTERS &
DECORATORS
PAINTERS -
Experienced
contractors with car
and tools needed for
subdivisions in GTA.
Call Monday to
Friday, 7 am to 5 pm.
905-814-8629.
Experienced super
intendent couple
required for Oshawa
mid-sized building.
Excellent location, near
mall, cleaning maintenance and general management required.
Contact 416-225-6364 or
Fax Resume to
416-225-6432
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
ENTREPRENEUR
OPPORTUNITY
Serious about looking for a part time business?
Have the drive and motivation to make an executive level income? Desire more control over
your income, Future?
Call Shannon 905-914-3316 for interview.
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
HELP WANTED
FT/PT shifts daily 7 days a week
Earn $12 hr. Contact us today!
1-888-974-JOBS or
www.1888974jobs.com
Sorter/Bundler Needed
Permanent, part time position
needed to bundle newspapers
in Oshawa. Must be available
Tuesday evenings. Please
apply in writing to:
Part Time
Delivery Drivers
Needed!
Contact
905-434-2424
FINANCIAL
e-mail: [email protected]
FINANCIAL
FINANCIAL
CLASSIFIED
ADVERTISING
INFORMATION
To Reach The
Oshawa Express
Phone:
905-571-7334
Fax:
905-571-0255
advertising@osh
awaexpress.ca
IT WORKS!
Residential
Classified
Ads
$21 (plus gst)
for 25 words
Call
905-571-7334
DENTAL
DENTAL
DENTAL
Business
Classified
Ads
$25 for a 1
col x 1”
(Boxed)
$39 for a 1
col x 2”
(Boxed)
Lower three drawer with pull
out keyboard table.
Separate unit with two shelves.
Excellent condition
$75.00
Call
905-442-2010
After 6pm
www.oshawaexpress.ca
Page 14
FOR SALE
Student Computer Desk
(plus gst)
THE BEST DEAL IN TOWN!
FOR SALE
Phone: 905-571-7334
Fax: 905-571-0255
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
INGLIS
Super Capacity WASHER
Good Shape - $75.00
INGLIS
Dryer and Kelvinator Stove
Both $50.00 each
Call
905-576-0780
Email: [email protected]
SEP 05 2007
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
OBITUARIES
BEETSMA
Jane Tena
$215,000
GREAT BEGINNINGS!
2 storey link home in Whitby, nicely decorated, finished rec room, fenced yard. Hardwood LR/DR, ceramics in kitchen. For your private viewing, call Dan
Silver, sales representative at MinCom Durham Realty
Brokerage 905-404-8200.
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
NEW
LISTING
Pride Of
Ownership
Bungalow,
2+1 Bedroom, 2
Fireplaces, 2 full
baths, central air,
finished basement
Backyard Paradise
With Inground Pool.
Won’t Last, $239,000
Call: Dan Silver
Sales Rep:
905-404-8200
MINCOM DUHAM
Realty 1995 LTD.
BROKERAGE
August 29th Crossword Answers
PLACE
YOUR
AD
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
SERVICE EXPERTS
August 29th Crossword Answers
Tile Vinyl Hardwood
Carpet Laminate
(905) 767-5434
BROOKLIN CARPET
Sales And Installation
Free Shop At Home Service
Check out
www.oshawaexpress.ca!
DOYLE
CARPENTRY
T h e Vo i c e o f t h e C o m m u n i t y
Check out the website with all the
latest in community news!
www.oshawaexpress.ca
Interior & Exterior
Renovations
* Doors & trim
* Drywall, painting
* Bathrooms
* Kitchens
* Basements
Jeff: 905-697-2106
CUSTOM
PAINTING
Ryan Appleton
Painting Contractor
Interior/Exterior
Call 905-260-1083
for FREE ESTIMATE
Quality
Workmanship
“Generation to
Generation”
ADVERTISE HERE, IT REALLY WORKS!
THE BEST DEAL IN TOWN!
SEP 05 2007
Phone: 905-571-7334
Fax: 905-571-0255
RENTALS
(Member of Retirees Group at Calvary Baptist
Church and Home League Fellowship at
Salvation Army Church) Gone to be with her
Lord and Saviour on Thursday August 30,
2007, in her 61st year. Daughter of the late
Siebrigjye and Louis Beetsma. Loving sister
of Alberta Booker-Barr of Earlton and Tena
and her husband Don Corris of Smiths Falls.
Will be lovingly remembered by her nieces
and nephews; Rob, Bonnie, Randy, William,
Vicki, Jennifer and their families, and her
friends; Arianne, Pat, Susan and Robert.
Relatives and friends may call at McINTOSHANDERSON FUNERAL HOME,
152 King Street East, Oshawa
(905-433-5558) A service was held in the
chapel on Saturday September 1st, 2007 at
11:00 a.m. followed by interment at Mount
Lawn Cemetery. Donations in memory of
Jane to the R.S. McLaughlin Durham
Regional Cancer Centre would be appreciated
by the family.
SALTER
Kathrine Isabella 'Kay'
Shows To
Perfection
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
OBITUARIES
Peacefully, at The Wynfield, on
Wednesday, August 29, 2007, in her 95th
year. Beloved wife of the late Glen for 65
years. Loving mother of Stephen Salter
and his wife Jeanette Matthews and the
late Robert Salter, and mother-in-law of
Nancy. Lovingly remembered by her
grandchildren Lesley Ann Salter, AshleyLeigh Salter (Paul), Clint Salter, Todd
Salter, Jeffrey Salter, Chad Salter and her
great-grandchildren. Dear sister of Leo
Conlin and his wife Nancy. Relatives and
friends were received at the
THORNTON CEMETERY CHAPEL, 1200
Thornton Rd. N., Oshawa, on Saturday,
September 1, 2007 from 1:30 p.m. until
the time of memorial service at 2:30 p.m.
Interment to follow. Donations made in
memory of Kay to the Osteoporosis
Society of Canada would be appreciated
by her family and may be made through
McINTOSH-ANDERSON FUNERAL
HOME LTD., 152 King St. E., Oshawa
(905-433-5558).
RENTALS
RENTALS
AFFORDABLY PRICED IN WHITBY! Move In Bonus!
Family, friendly community. Conveniently located with
transit at your door, just one bus to go station. Across
from shopping plaza and minutes to hwy 401.
Spacious 2 & 3 bdrm apts from $890, utilities included.
® HIGHLAND TOWERS.
Ask Us About AIR MILES®
200 White Oaks Court 905.668.7332
www.caprent.com
Available
1 Bedroom Apartment $749.00
2 Bedroom Apartment $849.00
525 St. Lawrence Street at Simcoe St. S. and Mill St.
Call 905-436-7686
FOR RENT
800 sq ft Office Space.
Hwy 401
Location in Oshawa
Lots of parking
Large, Open space,
Move-In Ready.
$1,000/mo, utilities included
Call: 905-434-7409
Email: [email protected]
Page 15
Page 16
SEPT 5 2007