Proposed bylaw smacks of “Big Brother”
Transcription
Proposed bylaw smacks of “Big Brother”
$1.00 Your Independent Local News Source Vol 3 No 25 Wednesday, April 16 2008 Proposed bylaw smacks of Big Brother By Jessica Verge The Oshawa Express Photo by Courtney Duffett/The Oshawa Express Spring cleaning Jesse Gray joined other Grade 5 and 6 students at Hillsdale Public School in the 12th annual PITCH-IN Canada program cleaning the garbage for spring in their playground. Board initiative credited with increasing graduation rates A proposed inspection bylaw isnt sitting right with one Oshawa councillor, who finds it reminiscent of Communism and compares it to Big Brother. Ward 2 councillor Robert Lutczyk, also the chair of the finance and administration committee, which received the staff report proposing the bylaw, is feeling apprehensive. While the committee postponed discussion on the issue until the next meeting, scheduled for April 29, Lutczyk is ready to fight it. I dont like it, he says. I am very, very, very cautious about moving forward with something that appears to be too controlling. Under Bill 130, the Municipal Statute Law Amendment Act 2006, which came into effect January 2007, municipalities are permitted to pass bylaws providing for the entry on land for purposes of Beckett intent on Student Success By Courtney Duffett The Oshawa Express Student Success is the top priority for Martyn Beckett. The Durham District School Board director of education says the Student Success initiative is not just important to the board but is a topic that is near and dear to any teachers heart in Ontario. Its truly breathless to hear of a students accomplishments, says Beckett. Every student has the opportunity to make the changes necessary to make it possible. Beckett shared his satisfaction with the program, which provides a diverse range of programs and supports for students in Grade 7 to 12, during a luncheon hosted by the Rotary Club of Oshawa on Monday. Beckett says Student Success relies on student engagement and calls focusing on literacy and Martyn Beckett numeracy the keys to success. As well, he lists community, culture and caring as integral steps to attract- allows ing and retaining students in the school system. We have dedicated staff in Durham Region focused on working with students creatively, says Beckett, adding that guidance is a critical component to success in schools. The Student Success program was introduced to the school system over the last three years. Now, every school has Student Success teachers and technology that schools to keep track of how well See BECKETT Page 7 inspection. The bylaw would give city staff the power to enter private homes and buildings to inspect and determine compliance with any bylaw. Municipal law enforcement officers could enter a premise and require the production of a document or anything relevant to the inspection. Further to that, officers would have the power to inspect and/or remove items, require information, make examinations, take tests, samples and photographs. Those who do not comply could be found guilty of an offence. But Mayor John Gray says such concerns are jumping the gun. Those things tend to get blown way out of proportion, he says. Gray declined to give his opinion to the proposed bylaw, saying its too early to form an opinion as the bylaw hasnt been discussed and city staff employees havent provided input. See CITY Page 7 Local Arrest Arrest Reporter spends night inside Oshawas cellblock See story page 14 Little interest to buy Cullen mini village Oshawa meth lab By Jessica Verge The Oshawa Express of interest. Currently just one offer is on the table but both the price offered and the identity of the tender is A confidential offer to buy the Cullen miniatures under wraps. wont be enough for Oshawa to recoup its losses for What city staff did reveal in a public report disthe little village, city staff is reporting. tributed to the finance and administration committee The City of Oshawa purchased the former Whitby is that the offer is less than the asking price. tourist attraction for $234,000 last summer but But Robert Lutczyk, chair of finance and admindecided to sell it this past October. However, istration, says that doesnt mean the offer isnt valuattempts to unload the miniatures, which have tech- able. While he wont go into details, Lutczyk says nically been on the market since January, havent there are incentives other than money being offered resulted in much interest. In fact, the formal, compet- from the potential buyer and these incentives could itive bidding process didnt result in any submissions result in the city making back more than what it paid out over time. And the search isnt over yet. Were still going to be looking, he says. Committee members moved the staff recommendation to negotiate the current offer and simultaneously seek other offers. The report states that staff will use the current offer as a basis for further negotiations to increase potential for the city to recoup its investment. The report also states that the citys current tendering procedure is not ideally suited for this unique collection due to the potential length of time required to canvas the market and find the The Cullen miniature collection is made up of 182 items, including this replica of Oshawas right buyer. Parkwood Estate. busted by police Some residents were evacuated from their homes after cops found a meth lab set up in an Oshawa house. On April 8, around 4 p.m., Durham police were called to a home on Dunkirk Avenue. After police received information of the possibility of a meth lab and obtained a search warrant, they discovered several false walls and secret compartments that concealed drug-producing materials, such as hotplates, glass beakers and large containers of chemicals. Several homes to either side of the address were evacuated for a short while as a safety precaution. In addition, a portion of a nearby play yard at a public school in the area not directly affected by the search was temporarily closed until the search was completed. The following day, police donned protective gear and entered the home. They spent the next seven hours removing drums and containers of chemicals, which included hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid, methyl chloride, toluene, ether and other drug paraphernalia. Police believe that this was a dormant drug lab and had not been in use for several weeks. Environmental experts completed the clean up of the residence and everyone was cleared from the scene by 6 p.m. Investigators would like to thanks the O.P.P, Oshawa Fire Services and Durham EMA for their assistance. The investigation is ongoing. Cops still searching for robbery suspect Police have released images of a suspect responsible for a recent gas station robbery in Oshawa. Images of the suspect can be viewed at the Durham Regional Police website, www.drps.ca. The suspects images were captured by video surveillance cameras as he approached the sales counter inside the Petro Canada gas station on Simcoe Street South armed with a knife. The suspect is described as a white male between 30 and 35 years old. He is about 510 tall and about 180 lbs. with a medium build. He was wearing a checkered lumber jacket, blue jeans, brown shoes and a black toque. Durham police are continuing to investigate this robbery. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 905-579-1520. Region still offering HPV Local officers further vaccine for Grade 8s studies in Toronto Its not too late for Grade 8 girls to protect themselves against cervical cancer. The Durham Region Health Department is still offering a free vaccine that helps prevent against the human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that causes cervical cancer among women. Last September, the vaccine was offered to Grade 8 girls across Ontario. Since last September, 59 per cent of Grade 8 Page 2 females in Durham Region have received the first and second dose of the HPV vaccine, said Dr. Robert Kyle, medical officer of health for Durham Region, in a press release. Its encouraging to see that parents and students recognize the importance of this vaccine as a way to decrease the risk of cervical cancer. Its equally important to understand that the total effectiveness of this vaccine relies on receiving the full series of injections. Its not too late for the girls to begin or complete the series this spring. HPV immunization is given as a series of three vaccinations and is available to all Grade 8 girls through a school-based program administered by the health department. Grade 8 girls who may have missed the first round of vaccinations may still begin the vaccine series. HPV is a very common virus spread easily through sexual activity. In Ontario, approximately 10 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each week and about three of these women will die from the disease. The new vaccine protects women against four of the most common types of HPV, two of which are cancer-causing. The goal of the program is to reduce Ontarios cervical cancer rates in women. For more information on the vaccine or to arrange to receive the vaccine, call the Durham Health Connection Line at 905-666-6241. Information on the HPV vaccine can also be found on www.region.durham.on.ca A couple of Durhams finest have ment, human resources and communigraduated from a prestigious Toronto cations. school. The Police Leadership Program Durham Regional Police has been an invaluable experiDeputy Chief Sherry ence, said Whiteway. The Whiteway and Inspector Rotman professors have Chris Ostler, leader of crime brought a wealth of knowlmanagement, are two of 22 edge, enthusiasm and excitesenior staff from 16 police ment to the program. I leave agencies across Canada who here very confident that I will have graduated from the be able to use this knowledge Joseph L. Rotman School of to be an even stronger leader Managements police-related in Durham Regional Police. Deputy Chief program at the University of The DRPS now has nine Sherry Whiteway Toronto. graduates from the program The MBA-style program including Civilian Director for police executives was Giles le Riche, Inspector Tom developed as a partnership Cameron, Superintendent Ian between the Rotman School Wooton, Superintendent Jim of Management and the Lockwood, Inspector Dave Ontario Association of Chiefs Wilson, Superintendent Bob of Police. It is an intensive Chapman and Deputy Chief three-week course with a cusChuck Mercier. tomized curriculum focusing For more information on on leadership and strategy, the program, please visit Inspector covering financial managewww.rotman.utoronto.ca. Chris Ostler Play it safe, buckle up Residents are encouraged to buckle up this spring. Durham Regional Police have launched their annual Spring Seatbelt campaign, which runs from April 16 to 27. Every year, the Ministry of Transportation creates an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of wearing seatbelts, child restraints and road user safety. This years campaign theme, One Person, One Seatbelt, requires every occupant in a motor vehicle to be buckled up properly while travelling throughout Ontario. Traffic collisions remain a leading cause of injury-related death in Ontario, estimated to exact a social cost of $9 billion every year. APRIL 16 2008 APRIL 16 2008 Page 3 Advertorial Prepare your lawn for summer The Gardener is offering up some helpful watering and fertilizing and lawn care tips to keeping your lawn healthy this summer. Weekly mowing is essential. By mowing regularly, less of the grass blades are removed each cut so as not to shock the lawn. Also, raise the cutting height as the temperature rises to avoid the lawn drying out. Sharpen blades regularly, bag the clippings during times of heavy growth and mulch otherwise to avoid thatch build-up. By doing this, the lawn will be thick and healthy. Apply grass seed in either the spring or fall by itself or with a top dressing soil to help thicken the lawn. A thick and healthy lawn reduces the natural hiding places for insects and fungi and prevents weed seeds from reaching the soil. Use a good quality grass seed that is a proper mix for the conditions of your lawn, either sun, shade or mixed. Apply a spring fertilizer before the first mowing to promote a healthy green lawn that will ward off weeds naturally and, with proper watering throughout the summer, will continue to stay green and healthy throughout the summer months. Most lawns need either two (spring and fall) or three (spring, summer and fall), applications of fertilizer per year to stay vibrant and healthy. Water 2.5 cm (one inch) per week, including total rainfall. A lot of people over-water and experts agree that only 2.5 cm is needed to maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn. A rain gauge or cup can be used to measure how much water the lawn has received. Free rain gauges are available from most municipalities. Water early. Watering early in the morning means less water is lost to evaporation. And avoid watering at night as the lawn remains wet for a long period of time. For more information contact The Gardener at 905-432-2279 or visit www.hirethegardener.com. Page 4 APRIL 16 2008 Get a lesson in building, racing Gearing up for the soapbox derby Soapbox enthusiasts take note: Oshawas annual derby is on its way. Members of the Motor City Car Club, organizers of Autofest, will be at the Oshawa Centre on April 19 to answer questions and provide information about building and racing soapbox cars for anyone looking to get involved in the activity. Fans of the sport can also watch a soapbox car build-off between The Oshawa Express newspaper, KX 96 radio station and Caseys restaurant beginning at 9 a.m. Each company will have its own team on site at the mall building their cars throughout the day using tools provided by Millwork Home Centre in Oshawa. At 3 p.m., Motor City Car Club members will judge the build-off The Oshawa Express soapbox car competed in last years derby in downtown Oshawa, held during Autofest 2007. Province doles out money for roads and award trophies to the winners. The soapbox cars will be raced this summer as part of the Autofests 8th annual soapbox derby sponsored by the North Oshawa Lions Club. Completed soapboxes will be on display with experienced racers handy to share their experiences. Motor City Car Club members will also provide information about other local derbies and making carts using Way Cool Kits. Soapbox cars, a motorless vehicle propelled by gravity and capable of holding a driver, first gained popularity in North America in 1933 when Ohio newspaper photographer Myron Scott covered a race of boybuilt cars in his hometown of Dayton. Intrigued by the event, Scott acquired rights to the event. The following year he convinced 50 cities across the United States to hold soapbox car races and send their winner to Dayton, Ohio for a major race. Originally built using orange crates and roller-skate wheels, todays carts can reach upwards 50 km per hour. Usually, soapbox derbies, such as Oshawas annual event, are a fun event meant to engage families rather than a serious competition and racers must often abide by rules restricting vehicle size and material costs. A team of volunteers, including Oshawa Express carriers and their parents, joined forces to build a soapbox last year. Theyll be at it again to compete in the 2008 derby. Oshawas roads and bridges are getting a $1 million boost from the province. The city will be receiving $1,738,730 from the Ontarios Ministry of Transportation toward the maintenance of local roads and bridges. The funding, included in Ontarios 2008 budget, comes as part of MTOs 2008 Municipal Road and Bridge Infrastructure Investment program To receive the money, council must pass a bylaw that sets out an agreement with the provinces guidelines. Once the bylaw is approved, MTO will transfer the funds to the city by June 30, at which time the province will also provide details on reporting requirements, including the types of eligible expenditures and directions for submitting a final report on how the funds were specifically used. Once the funds are received, the city will then decide which roads to spent it on. To ensure those funds are used as intended, MTO is reserving the right to audit municipalities and recover any funds that are misused or unused. As part of the initiative, MTO is doling out more than $400 million to municipalities across Ontario. What the rest of Durham is getting: Ajax $1,131,256 Clarington $1,913,794 Pickering $1,055,505 Uxbridge $646,628 Whitby $1,471,351 Brock $524,816 Scugog $775,761 APRIL 16 2008 Page 5 Bylaw could invade privacy Any time talk of giving more power to the government is on the table it automatically conjure up images of Big Brother, the lurking omnipresent figure from George Orwells classic novel 1984, the one capable of peering in on any unsuspecting person anywhere, anytime. And while its a bit of stretch to compare a proposal from Oshawa city staff that would introduce an inspection bylawgiving municipal law enforcement officers the power to enter private property anywhere, anytimeto an authoritarian character synonymous with government privacy issues around the world, its not too far off the mark. The bylaw, which is currently nothing more than a staff report and still begs for lengthy discussion at city hall, would let municipal officers inspect homes and businesses to make sure other bylaws are followed, no court order needed. On the surface it appears a surefire way to catch violators faster with less hoops for bylaw officers to jump through before handing out offences. No one on council seems able to point a finger at a burning issue that could have sparked the need for such a bylaw. One can surmise the housing problem around the college and university ignited the need for city officials to burst into private homes unannounced. Mayor John Gray, who doesnt want to share his opinions until hes been brought up to speed on the subject, believes the bylaw would be targeted at repeat offenders. He says good reason would be needed before an officer enters a home. So we ask, what is a good reason? If you take a look at the report (go online through the citys website), the bylaw leaves the door wide open for any type of inspection. As its currently written, it appears an officer could knock on your door and demand to see a dog license for the family pet. If the license cant be produced then you might be looking at a hefty fine. So who has the final say before such an inspection is made? The municipal officer? A city executive? The citys lawyer? Council? And why should the city believe it more powerful than our local police department that must follow a search warrant procedure? We may be far removed from the nightmare created by George Orwell but it is power such as this that leaves people feeling vulnerable. And while Bill 130 did bestow more power upon municipalities across Ontario, giving local government the specific option to pass an inspection bylaw, the option to pursue more power doesnt mean it should. We have legal provisions in place through the court system. Mayor Gray says we are getting a little ahead of ourselves but we say its never too early to fight a bylaw that promotes invasion of privacy. Page 6 600 Thornton Rd. S. Oshawa, ON L1J 6W7 [email protected] phone: (905) 571-7334 fax: (905) 571-0255 APRIL 16 2008 Volume 3, Number 25 Publisher Greg McDowell Advertising Director Kim Boatman Contributing Editor Wendy Gallagher Sports Editor Wally Donaldson [email protected] Reporters Jessica Verge [email protected] Courtney Duffett [email protected] City council at fault if GM Centre fails Dear Editor: It's not that long ago that we packed the banquet hall at the Tosca complex and listened to the prognostications of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment and how many events they would bring to our new General Motors Centre. Celebrities, who are no longer employed by this useless corporation, were called upon to extol the virtues of partnering with them and offsetting the costs through events they would bring to the City of Oshawa. The gang of eight on city council lapped it up. Councillors Kolodzie, Neal and Pidwerbecki saw it for what it was. It was a done deal, no matter what was said by the public at that meeting, and now we are paying the price. We have finally turfed this promotional group and latched onto another who is again promising to bring profitability to our downtown Taj Mahal. Don't get me wrong; the GM Centre is a gem in a pigpen. But, the operation of it is a joke. We have to start making money with this facility. I can't afford to have my property taxes hiked again to subsidize the deficit associated with this "downtown facelift". The new group, Global Spectrum, had better come up with a profitable result, or the gang of eight, or now six, will find themselves looking for employment after the next election. Gord Reid Oshawa Demolition of Rundle House long overdue Dear Editor: I stated on TV, I told others in conversation and I publicly once again state emphatically that this cancer lodge must be erected. We dont need prolonged chitchat, we need action. As a child I watched schools, a post office, a few churches, a bowling alley, a police/fire station and a half a dozen other buildings torn down to go modern. In this case I am not only Oshawas number one fan but in fact a cancer victim who has sat in chemo chairs eight times and nearly died three times from side affects. Ive had 15 radiations, 12 to 17 emergency visits and I know what I have seen first hand. Where the rubber meets the road is the hospital. Thats where youre born and thats many time where you leave this earth from. Like the Good Samaritan of years ago, together we can unite as one and breath a care of yes! Absolutely yes! Down with the old and up with the new. When you are lower than low you dont want to be looking for a place as in some Bethlehem to lay your weary body with your loved one for the night. From a chemo chair Ive peer out large glass windows and saw the rain, ice, snow and fog that others have to travel in before the day ended in some other town or city. A cancer lodge is needed right now, not six years from now! We also dont need to chew up more of our park to see it through either. This house is no different than those torn down on the other side for apartment buildings. I demand that this city support Mr. (Chuck) Powers in his conquest to bring about a safe, comfortable, clean, modern facility to take care of cancer victims in for the night. Those folk speeding around our hospital, those folk in love with old buildings, those people who dont like change have no comprehension of just how desperate you can be when sicker than sick. Three cheers for the hospital foundation! Three cheers for the staff in our oncology ward! Lets together get on with it, I say and together not kill, not wound, not shun, not hesitate but do something for the betterment of mankind locally and be happy in your decision of support on their behalf. Bob Hooper Oshawa Contributors Bill Fox, Amber Nowak, Glen Goodhand 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. Wed like to hear from you. Please write to: The Oshawa Express, 600 Thornton Rd. S., Oshawa, ON L1J 6W7 or email: [email protected] APRIL 16 2008 City could pass property inspection bylaw CITY From Page 1 However, he isnt concerned that it will raise privacy issues and believes such a bylaw would be directed at repeat offenders and building licenses. Gray says officers would need a good reason to enter property and it wouldnt result in officers entering homes to check on something such as a pet license. Gray does acknowledge the need for municipal law enforcement officers to have more power, saying he knows Oshawa citizens are frustrated with the length of time it takes for officers to enforce bylaws. Regardless, Lutczyk isnt ready to support it just yet. Councils going to have to think long and hard about this, he says. Robert Lutczyk We asked Oshawa residents if they believed a proposed bylaw that would give municipal law enforcement officers the power to enter private property to enforce city bylaws was a good idea. Heres what you had to say: If theres an actual good reason and they have actual concerns, then yes because bylaws are put in place to protect people. Brittany Higgs Id have to know more about the reasons why they want to go (into the property). Donna Osborne Yes. Everyone should be abiding by the bylaws anyways. Whats the point in having any bylaws in place if theyre not overseen? But there needs to be a reason. Kathleen Malloy AIDS Walk for Life helps residents More than 300 people in Durham Region are living with AIDS or HIV. Now, the rest of the community has a chance to help those affected by participating in the AIDS Walk for Life 2008, a national event aimed at raising awareness and funds for local services and programs. To date, more than half a million Canadians have participated in the AIDS Walk for Life, raising more than $27.5 million. The Durham Region AIDS Walk for Life 2008 takes place May 3 at the Masonic Hall, 91 Centre St. S. at 11 a.m. Proceeds go to the AIDS Committee of Durham Region, which provides services to more than 100 families through the region and gives out about $1,000 per week in food, medicine and financial assistance to clients. Participants can sign up as an individual or with a team at www.aidsdurham.com. Registrants receive pledge forms, envelopes and promotional material to begin raising money. The top individual fundraiser wins a $500 shopping spree; the top team an entertainment package that includes dinner, a movie and a limo ride; and the top school team receives $1,000. For more information, contact Irania Ledesma or Mark Hammann at 905-576-1445 or [email protected]. Yes, says Hogan, but adds, There has to be a legal process involved (before entering a premises). Deb Hogan Beckett praises program BECKETT From Page 1 students are doing. The program also has options for credit recovery. If we want different outcomes for our students, we have to have differentiated instruction at the front end, says Beckett. At the end of the day, its all about choices for kids and that is the key to retaining our students. Beckett says that the transition between Grade 8 and Grade 9 is crucial to a students education and he stresses the importance of high schools first two years. He says if Grade 9 and 10 students are in line for all their credits then they should have no problem graduating and there are many ways to help these students achieve this goal, including elearning, continuing entry co-op, custom timetables, homework clubs and afterschool programs. We want to keep working towards engaging the students, says Beckett. We want all our students to be successful. One of Becketts main goals is increasing graduation rates. There was a 73 per cent graduation rate last year in Durham Region and across the province. In addition, in 2004-05, 61 per cent of Ontario students had 16 credits by Grade 10 compared to 65 per cent in Durham Region alone. In 2005-06, 73 per cent of Ontario students had 16 credits by Grade 10 compared to 73 per cent in Durham Region. APRIL 16 2008 Were pleased with these results, but were continuing to work hard, says Beckett. There are huge opportunities for students. He adds that its important that schools and school systems continue to work hard at outreach to parents and students about the choices that are available. Success for our students is so critically important for our students in Durham and across Ontario, says Beckett. Were always looking for new opportunities and additional creativity for our kids. Page 7 Delivering value to a mortgage customer As a Mortgage Alliance professional, Ken Marks, AMP will provide you the options and expertise to get the Right Mortgage for your immediate and future needs. He works for you to provide unbiased guidance in your mortgage decision and with access to over 40 lenders (some offered exclusively through brokers) you have unmatched choice and convenience! At Mortgage Alliance, our main objective is to deliver value to the mortgage consumer, and make sure that you get the Right Mortgage. Getting you the Right Mortgage means that we take the time to understand your situation and your needs, and use our expertise and knowledge to help you make the Right Mortgage decision. There are hundreds of different mortgage products out there - and the choices you make could save you thousands of dollars and take years off your mortgage. Let a qualified Mortgage Alliance Professional take care of you needs. Choice... of over 40 lenders, from major banks to private sources. Convenience... with one place to compare lenders and get the Right Mortgage for your needs. Counsel... from an independent professional who works for you. When you use the Right Broker, you get the Right Mortgage. There are other benefits to dealing with Canada Mortgage Network. For one, you can log onto www.kenmarks.ca and use our mortgage information tools. Use our Mortgage Terms Glossary to learn more about mortgages and the process you'll go through to obtain one. There are terms and definitions about everything from Appraisals to Variable Rate Mortgages. The more informed you are, the better youll understand the process. Another great tool is the Rate Advisor. Also available at www.kenmarks.ca , the Rate Advisor will automatically keep you updated when changes to the current mortgage rates are posted. Simply complete this form and submit! You can also Apply Online for a pre-approval, refinancing or new mortgage. The Links area will take you to sites such as the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and other information youll find interesting! If youre wondering about how much you can afford, or whether renting or buying is the right choice for you-just click on the Calculator link located on www.kenmarks.ca and input your information. There is a Mortgage Payments Calculator, and Affordability calculator, and a tool to learn about paying off your mortgage quicker. In addition to the benefit of having a broker shop around to get you the best rate, you can be assured that your credit report is only pulled ONCE. If you personally shop around at the banks, a separate credit report is required for each institution. Plus, we can offer you deals from over 40 lenders, a huge advantage for you! Take the time to visit www.kenmarks.ca today or give us a call at 905-245-0700. Be cautious of real estate fraud (NC)-A friend of a friend has a fantastic real estate "investment" opportunity for you: No need to put up any money, simply hold properties for a short time before they are flipped - and you and your new "friend" split the profits. This may be a fraudulent scheme and the mortgage lender could soon be looking for your mortgage payments," says Kathleen Waters, a specialist in real estate law and vice president of TitlePLUS title insurance. "Even worse, the police may be looking to charge you with a serious criminal offence." The Tenant Flip Fraud Your prospective tenant wants to rent your property for a child studying in Canada. But because he lives oversees, he's willing to pay the rent for a full year in advance and in cash. no need to worry about references since the rent is fully paid for a year. To your surprise, your tenant fraudulently transfers the property to himself, then sells it to a very nice family who of course does not know you and will not leave simply because you say you own the property. How this gets resolved depends on many things including whether or not you have title insurance and whether your province's land registration system has a compensation plan to deal with these types of issues. Resolving the problem might only cost you time and inconvenience - but it could also cost you tens of thousands of dollars to fix the problem. The Middleman Value Fraud That friend of a friend asks to use your name to buy and mortgage a property that's "a deal" at $250,000 and can be easily resold for more - with you and your friend sharing in the profit. The fraudster promptly disappears with over $200,000 in mortgage funds, you discover the property is only worth $150,000 -and you're stuck with the overpriced property and a very large mortgage. If the real estate "deal" sounds too good to be true, check with your lawyer. Lawyers know what to look for and can Page 8 help you avoid being duped by a fraudster. A useful resource is the TitlePLUS Real Simple Real Estate Guide, a website that provides information on what lawyers do and how to avoid fraud, as well as mortgage calculators, a locate-a-lawyer feature and other tools. It is available for free at www.titleplus.ca. - News Canada APRIL 16 2008 APRIL 16 2008 Page 9 Oshawa Around Town Members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43 were on hand at Hillsdale Terraces to present $14,716 from the Provincial Command and Ladies Auxiliary Charitable Foundation of the Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund to Hillsdale Terraces and Hillsdale Estates. The funds will be used to purchase two solo electric beds and ortho low air loss mattress for each of the longterm care residences. From left, Branch 43 Ladies Auxiliary acting president Opal Lundy-Boudreau, Poppy Fund chairperson Marilyn Roach, Hillsdale Terraces administrator Len Cserhati, Branch 43 president Emil Bamgartner and member Don Legree. Studio owner celebrates new beginnings By Courtney Duffett The Oshawa Express Photo by Jessica Verge/The Oshawa Express Planning is well underway for the 35th Annual Oshawa Fiesta Week, organized by the Oshawa Folk Arts Council who got together here to discuss the event, scheduled for June 15 to 21. Page 10 An Oshawa resident wants his business to help bring back the look and life of downtown. Wes Evans, owner of Wes Side Photography, has opened up a new location on King Street East in Oshawas downtown core after six years as a home business. Im here to help the downtown and have a presence down here, says Evans. Im trying to make a difference in the downtown, and trying to help clean it up. Oshawas downtown is an area that is overlooked a lot, says Evans, adding that a lot of people think of it as the dirty shwa and wants to help create a career in film new image for the directing, he growing area. switched to phoIm all for tography. helping the downThe two have town and getting a lot of the same the word out principals, he there, says Evans, says, adding that adding that this he has recently new location is a been gearing his Wes Evans celebration of business slowly new beginnings: a towards commernew studio, being on my cials, all with helping the own and a new location. downtown in mind. Wes Side Photography Evans short and longstarted out of Evans home term goal is to keep booking slowly with odd jobs. Self- weddings and to stay busy, taught, Evans, 26, currently as well as getting more into focuses his business on shooting commercials. model portraits, portfolios Wes Side Photography and weddings. is located at 14½ King St. E, The word got around second floor, suite 201 in and I met the right people Oshawa. For more informaand it grew from there, tion on Wes Side says Evans. Photography, call 905-240Originally wanting a 8197. APRIL 16 2008 Made in the shade Gardening your way to sun safety What is Ultraviolet Radiation? Sandboxes and play equipment Aside from light and heat, the sun also gives off rays of ultraviolet radiation, or UVR. Overexposure to UVR increases the risk of developing skin cancer and other health problems. UV rays cant be seen or felt but can cause skin damage year-round in any temperature, even on a cloudy or hazy day. The intensity of the UV rays change from day to day but weather reports include a UV Index. The higher the numbers on the UV Index, the stronger and faster youll burn. Shade in the summer months is recommended over sandboxes with built shade as the best option. However, partial, natural shade is best for fixed play equipment. Make sure shade doesnt interfere with the ability to supervise children. Pool areas Shade in the summer is recommended for the area adjacent to the pool. Consider built shade as tree leaves may create added pool maintenance. Lounging and seating areas should be placed in the shade, especially in the middle of the day. Benefits of shade Reduces overall exposure to the suns UVR by 75 per cent. Reduces air temperature by up to 30 per cent. In warm weather, shade improves energy efficiency by helping to reduce cooling costs. In the winter, shade provides protection from wind and helps to reduce heating costs Can reduce noise. Measuring shade Natural shade (provided by trees, shrubs and climbing plants) Natural shade provided by trees and vegetation provides environmental benefits as a result of carbon dioxide absorption. Deciduous trees (those that lose their leaves every winter) offer one of the best ways to cut home cooling costsproviding excellent protection from summer sun by shading walls, roofs and windows. A mature well-placed tree can reduce cooling costs by 20 to 40 per cent. Attracts wildlife and offers fragrances, colours and sounds as well as privacy and wind protection. Improves air quality. Trees have also been proven to positively affect moods, reduce stress and aid in recovery from illness. Increase property values by as much as 10 to 20 per cent as a result of landscaping. Healthy trees can add up to 15 per cent to residential property value. Built shade (permanent structures that can stand alone or be built onto existing buildings or structures, such as gazebos, porch or patio roofs and retractable awnings) Cast predictable amount of shade. Can be erected quickly and create instant protection. Protect from rain. Translucent glass or polycarbonate roofing materials are barriers to UV rays but allow the suns warmth and light to penetrate. Fabrics with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor, or UPF, of 10 absorb at least 90 per cent of UVR. Portable/temporary shade (umbrellas, canopies, garden tents) Easy to use when at the park, beach or camping. Quick and inexpensive. Making shade at home General outdoor areas Partial, natural shade is best, especially over grass, which needs some sun for growth. If enough shade is available at all times of the day, it allows more flexibility for childrens play and outdoor activities. Planting on northern, northeastern and northwestern sites is recommended. Outdoor eating areas (decks and patios) Consider using a mix of natural and built shade, such as a trellis covered with climbing vines. An adjustable built system and/or deciduous vegetation allows for heat and light penetration in cooler months. Tips from Made for Shade: A guide for creating shade at home APRIL 16 2008 Its a beautiful, warm sunny day outside but people are basking in more than just light and heat. About one in every seven Canadians will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime from the suns harmful ultraviolet radiation rays. But ultraviolet radiation, or UVR, isnt unavoidable. Shade alone can reduce overall exposure to UVR by 75 per cent, a fact that the Durham Region Health Department and the Canadian Cancer Society want area residents to know. Theyve teamed up with Kingsway Greenhouses, Vandermeer Nursery Ltd. and Van Belle Flowers to create the Made for Shade initiative, which encourages people to use shade as a way to protect themselves from the sun. Shade is an important part of sun safety practices, says Irene Rutherford, a public health nurse with the region. It helps protect against the damaging health effects of ultraviolet radiation. Whether its the natural shade created by trees or man-made canopies and gazebos, shade can provide safety from the sun year round. Welldesigned shade projects provide a minimum of 94 per cent protection against direct UVR, create outdoor spaces comfortable for use in all seasons and minimize the impact of UVR on outdoor spaces to help reduce the suns reflection. While skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ontario, statistics from Cancer Care Ontario indicate that people still need to improve their sun safety measures. Over the last five years, local surveys have not shown any significant improvements in area residents use of sun safety practices, such as using sunscreen, wearing hats and protective clothing, and avoiding sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. While promoting shade as an important tool in sun protection is popular in Australia, a country with the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, the idea is relatively new to Ontario with Durham Region the first municipality in the province to offer detailed information for residents about shade. As part of the Made for Shade initiative, there will be Great Shade Giveaway events across Durham Region. In Oshawa, the event will take place at Kingsway Greenhouse, 111 Clarence Biesenthal Dr., on May 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Health department and garden centre staff will be on hand to provide advice, free shade planning booklets, fun giveaways for kids and a chance to win a $250 gift certificate for each garden centre. Throughout the gardening season, Made in the Shade stickers will be displayed on trees, umbrellas and other products to help customers easily identify the best items for creating shade. For more information, call Durham Health Connection Line at 1-800-841-2729 or 905-666-6241 or visit www.region.durham.on.ca. To get your shade project started, take an audit: 1) Pick the site youd like to shade and make a freehand drawing of the site. Include overall dimensions of the lot, the length and width of the house, the length and width of other buildings on the site and the distance of any buildings from each other and from site boundaries. Mark the direction north on the plan. 2) Take photos of the site, its usage, existing trees and shade structures, problem areas and shade opportunities. 3) Divide outdoor areas into zones, depending on usage, such as sitting areas, dining areas, etc. 4) Record special conditions such as significant group level changes and note the ground surfaces to assess reflected UVR. 5) Record the location of trees, noting specifics, height, level of maturity, condition, density of canopy and estimated canopy diameter. 6) Establish usage patterns, such as the main outdoor activities that occur there, the time of day and time of year the site is used most, how many people use it and their ages. 7) Assess the quantity and usability of existing shade, assess need for additional shade, decide how to create it and develop a plan for shade. 8) Note the purpose of the new shade structurewhether its rain protection, shading windows to cool the home or shading a specific spot outdoors. Choosing a shade tree When choosing a shade tree, keep in mind the size and density of the canopy of the tree. The larger the canopy diameter and the larger the leaf size, the greater protection it provides. Also, trees and shrubs with a canopy closer to the ground provide better shade. Choose plants with low branches or plant trees with taller canopies in rows or groups. Recommended trees include: maple, ornamental pear, honey locust, ivory silk lilac, hornbeam, linden, cherry, hawthorn, gingko and red chestnut. Planting your tree A tree that is chosen wisely, located correctly and well established requires little care. Mid-April is the perfect time for spring planting. Start by deciding where to plant the tree then calculate ¾ of the estimated mature width of the canopy and draw a circle in the ground the size of this diameter. Make sure there are no obstacles that could get in the way of roots or leaves and that the area is not too wet. Get the tree off to a good start using good soil. Amend the existing soil by adding in 50 per cent good topsoil, compost or manure. Dig to a depth of 18 inches in an area three times the width of the root ball. After planting, water the tree well by setting the hose on the ground and adding water slowly. Add a liquid fertilizer, cover the surface of the soil with mulch and dont prune when planting. Caring for your tree During your trees first year, make sure it gets enough water. Drought is the number one killer of newly planted trees. But water slowly and frequently. New trees need a deep soaking with the hose on trickling for up to an hour at least twice a week. During the hot, dry summer, new trees need this attention daily. When trees leaf out next spring, apply a liquid fertilizer to promote new root growth. Page 11 Cancer prevention begins with awareness April is Cancer Awareness Month In 2008, an estimated 27,300 people will die of cancer in Ontario, and 63,000 new cases will be diagnosed. The most frequently diagnosed cancer overall in Ontario is lung cancer. An estimated 8,100 people (4,100 men; 4,000 women) will be diagnosed with lung cancer in 2008. Lung cancer is the overall leading cause of cancer death in Ontario. An estimated 6,900 people (3,600 men; 3,300 women) will die of lung cancer in 2008. Colorectal cancer is the second overall highest cause of cancer death in Ontario. An estimated 3,250 people (1,750 men; 1,500 women) will die of colorectal cancer in 2008. For Ontario men, prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed type of cancer, followed by colorectal cancer and lung cancer, respectively. In 2008: An estimated 10,500 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. An estimated 4,300 men will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. An estimated 4,100 men will be diagnosed with lung cancer. For Ontario men, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death, followed by colorectal cancer and prostate cancer, respectively. In 2008: An estimated 3,600 men will die of lung cancer. An estimated 1,750 men will die of colorectal cancer. An estimated 1,650 men will die of prostate cancer. For Ontario women, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed type of cancer, followed by lung cancer and colorectal cancer, respectively. In 2008: An estimated 8,500 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. An estimated 4,000 women will be diagnosed with lung cancer. An estimated 3,700 women will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. For Ontario women, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death, followed by breast cancer and colorectal cancer, respectively. In 2008: An estimated 3,300 women will die of lung cancer. An estimated 2,000 women will die of breast cancer. An estimated 1,500 women will die of colorectal cancer. The above findings are taken from the 2008 Canadian Cancer Statistics. These statistics are compiled through a collaboration of information provided by the Canadian Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute of Canada, Statistics Canada, Health Canada, provincial/territorial cancer registries and universitybased researchers. Cancer is a disease that starts in our cells. Our bodies are made up of millions of cells, grouped together to form tissues and organs such as muscles and bones, the lungs and the liver. Genes inside each cell order it to grow, work, reproduce and die. Normally, our cells obey these orders and we remain healthy. But sometimes the instructions get mixed up, causing the cells to form lumps or tumours, or spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body. Tumours can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign tumour cells stay in one place in the body and are not usually life-threatening. Malignant tumour cells are able to invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body. Cancer cells that spread to other parts of the body are called metastases. The first sign that a malignant tumour has spread (metastasized) is often swelling of nearby lymph nodes, but cancer can metasta- size to almost any part of the body. It is important to find malignant tumours as early as possible. Cancers are named after the part of the body where they start. For example, cancer that starts in the bladder but spreads to the lung is called bladder cancer with lung metastases At least half of all cancers can be prevented through healthy living and policies that protect the health of Canadians. Risk reduction is taking action to reduce or cut down your individual risk of developing cancer. Risk can be increased or decreased by the lifestyle choices you make or the kind of environment you live and work in. But even a person at low risk may get cancer, just as a person at high risk may not. There is no single cause of cancer but some factors appear to increase the risk of developing it. These are known as risk factors. There are some risk factors that you cannot change such as age and a family history of cancer (heredity). There are some risk factors related to everyday choices that you can change. You can choose to: Be a non-smoker and avoid tobacco smoke. Eat a healthy diet. Be physically active every day. Stay at a healthy weight. Limit alcohol use. Reduce your exposure to UV (ultraviolet) rays from the sun or indoor tanning equipment, like tanning beds. Know your body and report any changes to your doctor or dentist. Follow health and safety instructions when using hazardous materials at home and at work. The Canadian Cancer Society is committed to providing information about how to prevent or reduce the risk of cancer. We use the best available scientific evidence and the precautionary principle to develop this information. The precautionary principle states: When an activity raises threats of harm to human health or the environment, precautionary measures should be taken even if some cause-andeffect relationships are not fully established scientifically. Courtesy of The Canadian Cancer Society Page 12 APRIL 16 2008 Protect yourself, use sun sense (NC)-Natural sunlight is important to maintain good health. But too much exposure to the sun's rays can cause skin cancer and eye problems. Even in Canada, sunlight is strong enough to cause skin cancer and premature aging of the skin. The risk of skin cancer today is much greater than it was 20 years ago and continues to increase. While we tend to use sunscreen before hitting the beach in the summer, the reality is that skin should be protected 12 months of the year. Using a little SunSense can go a long way in protecting yourself and your family. Use sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher. When it doubt, flip the spout. Unlike perfume or cologne, you can never wear too much sun protection! Sunscreen vs Sunblock Sunscreen absorbs the Ultraviolet (UV) rays and prevents them from penetrating the skin. Sunblock creates a barrier that reflects UV light. Zinc is a common sunblock. Sun Protection Factor Sunscreens are rated by the strength of their Sun Protection Factor, or SPF. The SPF number refers to the product's ability to screen or block out the sun's burning rays. Here are some simple SunSense suggestions from HealthyOntario.com: Children aged six months or older should always wear sunscreen outdoors. Children younger than six months should not be exposed to the sun whenever possible. People who work or sit near windows for long periods should wear sunscreen. Yes - harmful UV rays do pass through windows! Wear sunscreen year-round, even on cloudy days, whenever outside. APRIL 16 2008 Page 13 Reporters arrest... Inside Oshawas cellblock By Courtney Duffett The Oshawa Express I was sitting in a small room with the doors closed. The man who left me in here locked the door behind him. It was a desk with two chairs in a dimly lit room. The walls were white and bare. I felt apprehensive and alone. I figured most people who sit in here must feel the same way. There was a Kleenex box on the desk and I thought that maybe a lot of people have cried in this room. There was also a phone book on the desk, but I couldnt image why it would be needed in here -- there was no phone. The room was just behind the front desk when you enter the building and I could hear people talking. I wondered how long Id been in here and how much longer I would have to wait. I didnt know what was going to happen next. All I knew was that I had a really long night ahead of me. These days, fingerprints are usually taken electronically by laser-light and the minor details are computerized, but in my case, we used black ink and did it the old-fashioned way. They took prints of the tips of my fingers, my hand, palm and the side of my hand. These many images of the hand are taken to be able to match various forms of hitting, including the old karate chop and to match any type of print left at the scene of the crime. My humorous comment of not realizing there were so many ways of punching somebody was met with an awkward silence. So, with that done, it was time for me to be locked up. The officer took me out of the booking room down the hall to the left where there was a row of cells lined up one after the other. We walked down to the end of the hall, past four empty cellblocks to the last cell where I was told to enter. The sound of metal echoed as the officer slammed the cell bars shut behind me and locked them. Looking around, it was just as I expected: tiny and all metal and steel. There was a cement bench, with no cushion. The jail cell came out about two-and-a-half feet from the wall and also had a small steel toilet and a sink in the middle of the tiny room, against the back wall. I was standing in the middle of this dimly lit cement block about seven-feet long and five-feet wide, by my estimations. Turning around facing the cell bars, I saw the camera through the bars, hanging on the opposite wall, and wondered how I would handle having to use that small steel toilet. The camera was aimed right at me. I knew whoever was watching could see everything. So I took a seat on the cement bench. I had no idea what time it was. I know I arrived around 10 p.m. and figured it had to be close to 11 p.m. by now. But time seemed to elude me in fact I felt very lost. Everything was quiet. Every once in a while, I heard somebody yelling profanity. This individual was obviously upset. He sounded so close to me but yet I knew he wasnt that close. He was down a different hallway. I felt I was in a maze of multiple hallways -- it was just the echo in the walls that made it loud. But he gave up his efforts for attention after a while and then there was silence. I focused on the wall. My mind jumped from thought to thought with I had no idea that there were so many ways of punching someone, nothing in particular to and that officers can match you to any print or mark left behind at a anchor me to anything scene. specific. Time abandoned This was the night I was arrested. I was at 17 Division, the police station in downtown Oshawa. It was a Thursday night around 10 p.m. and I was brought into this little room to wait for the sergeant. He was going to be the one dealing with me. A million thoughts were racing through my mind and I wasnt sure what to expect. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the sergeant opened the door, walked in and stood in front of me, ignoring the only other chair in the room. This set off a whole new wave of anxiety, as he said I was going to be arrested, booked and tossed in a holding cell for the evening. As he continued to talk to me, I tuned out and imagined what dilemma I would face would I be alone, would I be expected to protect my territory in a shared cell? I imagined being in a brightly lit basement with rows of cells down a long hallway, much like Anthony Hopkins in the movie Silence of the Lambs. I figure it would be all echoes and no furniture, cold cement and steel and I knew that there would be cameras watching me the entire time. The sergeant handcuffed me and in silence, directed me down a long hallway and into the booking room. Here, I stood at a desk while he asked me questions such as if I had consumed any alcohol or drugs that evening. He confirmed my identification and reason for arrest. Then I was told to remove all of my jewelry and shoelaces just being careful in case I had thoughts about hanging myself! It was there that my handcuffs came off, a relief to be granted this ounce of freedom. I was then taken to a little area off to the side where a female officer did a search. With my hands up against the wall and my feet spread, the female officer checked me for weapons and drugs. This is where females are stripped of their bra. After I satisfied the concern of the female officer that I didnt have any drugs or weapons, it was time for fingerprints. Page 14 Photos by Jessica Verge/The Oshawa Express Being handcuffed is like taking away your freedom. I felt trapped and it was uncomfortable. I was warned not to struggle as the cuffs would get tighter. me and boredom set in as I waited for what Youre lucky, he said. Tonight has been was to come next. a slow night, adding that had I been in here a I dont know how long I had been sitting couple nights before, many more cells were there but every so often Id be brought back to occupied by people who were screaming and the here and now with the sound of footsteps yelling all night. or unidentifiable talking in the distance. A Even though I had just been locked up for couple of times throughout the night the footabout four hours, I was relieved to be going steps grew louder and an officer would peer home to my warm bed. I was handed back my into my cell, to make sure I was behaving personal belonging and the sergeant who myself and not being a bother. arrested me earlier led me back out to the Some time in the night, the silence was front of the station where he shook my hand broken by either a new guest or someone who and said goodbye. had been there for a while but who has become agitated in their cell. This clanger, I So that was the story of the night I was will call them, was not in a good mood and arrested. Oh, I guess I should mention this the loud clanging and shaking or kicking of wasnt for real. In fact, I was merely there to the bars actually caused my head to ache. I experience and write a story on what it would was also getting tired and a little chilled, since be like to be arrested and put in our local jail. there was no blanket to cover up and the conAnd even though as a journalist I faced no crete only added to the cold. charges, the experience was real. And even The clanger pooped out after about half today, two weeks later, the memory is still an hour. Then it was peaceful. But not for clear in my mind like it happened yesterday. long. Then I heard something else. Somebody Its one situation I hope never to repeat in real was sick, vomiting for a good 15 minutes. life. Then someone else asked what time it was. One o-clock, answered an officer. And then it went silent again. One o-clock. I had a long night ahead of me and I was getting cold and sore from sitting on the cold, hard bench. I was also very tired and starting to get restless. I knew it would be almost impossible to try and sleep. It was weird knowing that somebody could see what I was doing at all times. After what seemed like an eternity of silence, there were more footsteps. An officer, the woman who searched me in the booking room, was standing on the other side of the bars. Youre free to go, she said with a smile on her face. What time is it? I asked her. Three in the morning, said the officer as she unlocked the cell bars to let me out. I followed her back to the booking room, where the officer who took my fingerprints earlier in the evening handed Getting searched for drugs and weaponry. I wondered had I been hiding anything what would have happened. me back my belongings. APRIL 16 2008 Hoping to win the Nobel Peace Price A year ago, I started my second career. You are looking at it. This marks one year of writing columns for The Oshawa Express. Now there have been some major disappointments in my writing career. I had visions of winning the Nobel Peace Prize for my Lifestyle columns. I felt if I shared my knowledge and experience of being a teacher for 40 years and parenting four successful young men, then readers might sit up and nominate me for the Nobel Peace Prize. Now if you do not know, the Nobel Peace Prize is named after William Nobel, the inventor of dynamite. To have a Peace Prize named after him is somewhat akin to having the be kind to women award being named after Jack the Ripper. But I still want one. As I have previously mentioned, I had dinner once with Mother Teresa. She later went on to win the Nobel Peace Prize. You cant tell me that having dinner with me did not have a great impact on her life. Wel,l I guess you could, but I would choose not to completely believe it. One of two priests who married us (we wanted to be doubly sure) also baptized three of our four sons. Father Tom McKillop later went on to win the Order of Canada! Now I am not sure if marrying my wife and I and baptizing three of our sons was on his resume for the Order of Canada, but I strongly suspect it could have been included. I should mention that the other priest, who married us and acted as emcee at our reception, was former local Chaplain, Father Don MacLellan. Donnie has thus far avoided any public APRIL 16 2008 accolades, even though I devoted a column to him. He has had such an impact on so many young people that took in his retreats at Teen Ranch, both from Dwyer and Pereyma High Schools. However, he is a very humble, shy and very quiet person, and could have been easily overlooked by Award givers. Now is it just a coincidence that people who have intertwined somehow into my life have gone on to greatness? So writing Lifestyle columns is not getting me to the Nobel awards Indeed, I have won no awards for my columns. I barely get noticed by my doctor! Now I did have someone once notice me at WalMart, but I think it was my hair. This fellow was particularly friendly to everyone. Nevertheless when I got home, I told my wife how I am beginning to make a difference around here. She told me to remember to take out the garbage. I have decided to take on a different tact. In a moment of resentments and bitterness, I have decided to be a storyteller and to put my name forward for the Pulitzer Literary award. I hopped I speld that write! Beginning next column, I am thinking I am going to start writing stories, starting with my friend Tom. Tom is always concerned about my health and weight, despite weighing 50 kilos more than me. Thats the kind of friend he is! He is now retired and raises standard bred racehorses in Port Perry. Some of you older folks might remember a local lad who, over 40 years ago, lost his eye while playing junior hockey. This is my friend Tom. Tom has been my best friend for over 25 years. He has the biggest heart of anyone I know. In fact, I am somewhat surprised that he has never won any awards. If there were a biggest hearted horse trainer with one eye award, I would have nominated Tom. But then again, he has never nominated me for any awards... If you know of someone deserving of an award, let me know at [email protected]. Priming for Senior Games By Wally Donaldson The Oshawa Express Anyone 55 years of age or older with a knack for competitive sports might want to investigate what the forthcoming Durham Region Senior Games have to offer. Whether you feel your forte is bowling, cribbage, slo-pitch, golf or a myriad of other activities being offered throughout the summer, you are invited to enrol in your sport. The caviar to these Games is a trip to the Ontario Senior Games in London from August 12-14 should you emerge a gold medal winner in your selected event. Its more recreational than anything, but the competition level should still be very good, says John Bueckert, treasurer and events registrar for the 32nd annual Games events. We are expecting anywhere from 700 to 1,000 entries for the 19 events we are staging. The popularity of the Games is such, four new activities have been added to this years agenda: bad- minton, slo-pitch, 10-pin bowling and horseshoes. The Games are under the auspices of the Ministry of Health and Resources. All facilities where the sports will be conducted are donated with the exception of the city-owned Alexandra Park for slo-pitch. The awards luncheon will be held at the Class Act Theatre in Whitby on Wednesday, June 25 at noon. Anyone wishing further information can contact either Ruth Vdovich at 905-666-9067 or Linda Spadaro at 905-571-2039. Activities, dates and locations are as follows: Shuffleboard, April 14, Clarington Older Adults Centre in Bowmanville. Euchre, April 16, Royal Canadian Legion in Claremont. Five-pin bowling, April 22, North End Bowl in Oshawa. Cribbage, April 28, Ajax Friendship Club in Ajax. Ten-pin bowling, May 1, Leisure Lanes in Oshawa. Table tennis, May 4, Oshawa Seniors Centre in Oshawa. Tennis, May 8, Durham College Campus in Oshawa. Bid euchre, May 14, Clarington Older Adults Centre in Bowmanville. Carpet bowling, May 16, South Pickering Seniors Centre in Pickering. Contract bridge, May 23, South Pickering Seniors Centre in Pickering. Darts, May 26, South Pickering Seniors Centre in Pickering. Duplicate bridge, May 30, Clarington Older Adults Centre in Bowmanville. Horseshoes, May 31, Royal Canadian Legion in Claremont. Badminton, June 2, Oshawa Seniors Northview Centre in Oshawa. Snooker, June 4, Royal Canadian Legion in Pickering. Bocce ball, June 8, Oshawa Bocce Club in Oshawa. Lawn Bowling, June 11, Whitby Lawn Bowling Club in Whitby. Slo-pitch, June 13, Alexandra Park in Oshawa. Golf, June 16, Sunnybrae Golf Course in Prince Albert. Page 15 Help reforest 7-acre parcel Durham residents are being asked to lend Mother Nature a hand in celebration of Earth Day. The Central Lake Ontario Conservation is hosting its annual Earth Day tree-planting event on April 26 at the Enniskillen Conservation Area. From 9 a.m. until noon, volunteers of all ages can help plant more than 3,500 tree seedlings, which will grow into a 7-acre mixed forest habitat through the Sharp Tract lands that are part of Claringtons Enniskillen Conservation Area. Our focus this Earth Day is to begin transforming old pasture land back into valuable forest habitat for wildlife and to enhance water quality, said Jamie Davidson, conservation areas planner with Central Lake Ontario Conservation, in a press release. When mature, these trees will also help to improve air quality by absorbing the equivalent amount of carbon dioxide produced by seven cars over the course of a year. The free rain or shine event is open to families, individuals, scout and guide groups, churches, businesses and students. Groups are welcome but must register prior to the event. Participants are asked to dress for the weather, bring a hat, sunscreen, boots, gloves and good digging shovels. Kids will also be asked to help build bird-nesting boxes that are needed for the area. The event will conclude with a barbecue for all participants. For more information, directions or to register a group visit www.cloca.com or contact Central Lake Ontario Conservation at (905) 579-0411. To get to Enniskillen Conservation Area, take Regional Road 57 north from Taunton Road to the 9th Concession Road (Regional Road 20). Turn left (west) and travel through the Old Scugog Road intersection to the roadside parking, located just before the north bend on the 9th Concession Road. Enniskillen Conservation Area Sharp Tract is located northwest of the Village of Enniskillen in Clarington. Wed. April 16 HEAD INJURY ASSOCIATION OF DURHAM RE G I O N S U P P O R T G R O U P M E E T I N G Head Injury Association of Durham Region, 850 King St. W. Unit 24. Brain-injured survivors, family members and caregivers are invited to welcome guest speaker Kayli Riann from 7:30 to 8:15 p.m. with the meeting immediately following. For more information call 905-723-2732 or 1-866-354-4464. Sun. April 20 FASHION SHOW Oshawa Golf Club, 160 Alexandra St. In support of Hearth Place Cancer Support Centre, the fashion features items from Connies Brooklin Village Shoppe, Brocks and Okaidi. The event also includes brunch, a cash bar, door prizes and a raffle. Tickets are $50. Brunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. with the fashion show commencing at 12:30 p.m. Tickets are available at Hearth Place (905-579-4833) or The Gift House (905-571-3511). BREATHE FREE STOP SMOKING PROGRAM 33 Olive Ave. This non-profit community service program begins at 7 p.m. Cost is $50. For more information call 905-7253475. Mon. April 21 OSHAWA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Centennial Albert United Church, 19 Rosehill Blvd. The group welcomes guest speaker Wayne Geen from the Society for International Hockey Research. The meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. For more information or to donate an item to the silent auction, please phone Jill at 905-436-7624 ext. 106. OSHAWA BLOCK PARENT ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Mayors Conference Room, Oshawa City Hall, 50 Centre St. S. The 7 p.m. meeting is open to current Block Parents and anyone interested in learning more about the organization. For more information, call 905-436-9584 or email [email protected]. Thurs. April 24 VICTORIAN TEA Oshawa Community Museum, 1450 Simcoe St. S. The museum is offering themed teas from April to June, with the Spring Tea on April 24, Mothers Day Tea on May 8 and Strawberry Social on June 26. The cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children and includes sandwiches, scones, dessert and a tour of the museum. Reservations are required. For more information about the programs or to register, call Jill at 905-4367624 ext. 106. April 9 crossword answers Page 16 APRIL 16 2008 This is a picture of Oreo, an 11-year-old Jack Russell, lapping up the last bit of an iced cappachino. It is her favorite beverage from Tim Hortons. She also enjoys the timbits. The Oshawa Express would like to remind its readers to still send in Echo Baby pictures to run bi-weekly to the Express Perfect Pet feature. ARIES: March 20 to April 19 The Full Moon emphasizes your house of joint finances. Repay outstanding debts and rework your financial plans. Your strong, magnetic personality draws others toward you. TAURUS: April 19 to May 20 Your romantic approach is tempered by common sense. A partner has to earn your love. If single, you could meet someone special and things could develop immediately. Spend some time outdoors enjoying nature. GEMINI: May 20 to June 21 With plenty of projects on the go, your workload could still get heavier. Meditate, analyze your dreams or go for a daily walk to create better balance in your life. Host a small dinner party. CANCER: June 21 to July 22 These days, you have plenty of physical energy and require a practical outlet. Focus on your personal goals. You could be recognized for a job well done. Schedule time for play or go to a movie on April 20. LEO: July 22 to August 22 Career wise, your life is demanding and you are working longer hours with many deadlines to meet. Your public life gets a boost. Make phone calls and send e-mails to increase your business. VIRGO: August 22 to Sept 22 Single Virgos could meet a new romantic partner. A week when your communication skills are emphasized, network at business and community events. LIBRA: Sept 22 to Oct 23 You could receive positive financial news, but at the same time, your expenses may go up. However, your partner could get a raise in pay. Talk things over with a financial advisor. Curb spending. SCORPIO: Oct 23 to Nov 22 Whether personal or business, partnerships are emphasized over the next few weeks. Tune in to your partners real needs and keep your relationship creative and exciting. Share your thoughts, wishes and love. SAGITTARIUS: Nov 22 to Dec 21 You could be in line for a promotion or salary increase. If you have gained weight, make an effort to take it off and get in shape with a new exercise program. Clean up the clutter at home and have a yard sale. CAPRICORN: Dec 21 to Jan 19 If you are single and would like to meet someone special, why not contact a match maker or join a computer dating service. Go for a make over to improve your professional image. Are your parents needs being met? AQUARIUS: Jan 19 to Feb 19 Get together with siblings or friends you have not seen for a while. Take your car or computer in for servicing. Share ideas with like-minded companions. Something hidden could be revealed. PISCES: Feb 19 to March 20 You make decisions about money are based on intuition, rather than common sense. Start a new savings account or make viable investments. Plan a vacation or take a trip on the spur of the moment. (MENORAH: meh-NOR-uh: A nine-branched candelabrum used during Hanukkah.) April 9 Word Game Answers The Stars Say is provided by Joan Ann of Oshawa. For personal readings, call 905-725-9179 or visit her website at www.astroconsultation.com 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 T-shirt. Limit is one t-shirt per person for the year. APRIL 16 2008 Page 17 Students lace up to help troubled youth Left to right: Dave Lewis, Andrew Fitchett and Matt Agar were the first three to finish the 5 km race around the Oshawa campus at UOIT and Durham College. Lewis finished first followed by Agar and Fitchett. By Courtney Duffett The Oshawa Express Photo by Courtney Duffett/The Oshawa Express Back to front, left to right: UOIT rowing team members Rob Devries, Andraj Sipaj, captain Rachelle Krause, Mike Bissonnett, Mike Labriola, Geoff Chadsey and Colin Jeffery participated in the charity walk to raise funds for a good cause. fundraising events. University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) student Rachelle A warm and sunny day saw staff and Krause, captain of the schools rowing students from Oshawas university lace up team, was one of many students, including their running shoes for a recent annual her fellow rowers, who took part in the 5 charity walk and run. km run around campus to benefit The event was the second annual Eastview Boys and Girls Club in campus charity walk and run for Oshawa. Eastview Boys and Girls Club, Its a really good cause, says which provides a safe and supportKrause. It was a good opportunity ive place where children and youth for the rowing team to come out and can experience new opportunities, get some stress relief from exams. overcome barriers, build positive Carla Cesaroni, assistant profesAndrea relationships and develop confisor in criminology, justice and poliCraningdence and skills for life. cy studies and event coordinator, Dafoe Its events like this that allow us says this years event was even to go the extra mile for the youth, more successful than last year, says Andrea Craning-Dafoe, director of adding that the event was made possible youth justice programs at Eastview Boys with the participation of staff and students and Girls Club, adding that being a non- as well as help from its sponsors including profit organization, the club relies on fund- Lovell Drugs, Chartwells Food Services ing from charities like United Way and and Brooks. The Vindicator & The Reformer Oshawa has had numerous newspaper companies operating since its early inception. The Oshawa Vindicator and The Oshawa Reformer were once a celebrated source of news for the area. In 1856, James McMillan who had been operating a printing and publishing business in Bowmanville, purchased interest in the newspaper Freeman with Samuel Luke. Six months later, William H. Orr of Bowmanville purchased McMillans interest and began a new firm that would publish the Vindicator that he would remain a part of until 1866. The price of early issues was seven shillings and six pence a year in advance. The early issues contained four pages and, much like today, the front page was devoted to advertisements. The Vindicator was the Conservative paper in town and in 1870 its views were about to be challenged. The first issue of the Oshawa Reformer was published on April 15, 1871 in Oshawa. It had been the outcome of a political contest between Abram Farewell a Page 18 member of the reform party and Dr. William McGill the Conservative candidate who had been elected as a Reformer but had transferred his allegiance to the opposing party. In the provincial election of fall 1870, Abram Farewell was victorious and was elected to a seat in the Provincial Legislative for South Ontario. The Reform party was the forerunner of the Canadian Liberal Party. Shortly afterward, members of the Reform party took steps to establish a newspaper to meet Conservatives on equal terms as far as politics and local events. The Ontario Reformer was published under the direction of Mr. J.F. Tamblyn and Mr. W.R. Climie, once editor of the Bowmanville Statesman. The printing office was located in a store on Simcoe Street South. At the time, Oshawa was predominately a Conservative town and the newspaper took its time luring readers. In 1873, a joint stock company known as The Ontario Reformer Printing and Publishing Company organized by the towns leading Liberals operated the paper and establishment. In 1875 Mr. Glen became the owner, but in 1876 due to financial issues, he sold out to Luke and Larke, then the owners of the other Oshawa paper, The Vindicator. The paper was put under the leadership of Samuel Luke while J.S. Larke ran the Vindicator. In July 1878 Edward Mundy of Port Perry acquired it and would have a controlling interest for more than for 40 years until his death in 1921. APRIL 16 2008 Pearson, Snell and Craigwell go Beyond The Pond Oshawa grads are golden By Wally Donaldson The Oshawa Express The school will be running every Monday and Wednesday throughout the summer months with three camps each day. We didnt want to get too big too quick, adds Snell. We want to concentrate on doing a good job on Its officially being touted Beyond The Pond, but the ice. Thats what its all about. judging by the calibre of instructors who have lived the All three primary instructors will be on the ice at the dream, this hockey school would probably be better qualsame time for each session, each concentrating on the posiified after the Academy Award winning movie, On tions they played professionally. Golden Pond. I got the bug back coaching at OUIT and I realized this Three former Oshawa minor hockey graduates who is something we needed to do, notes Pearson, who played made their mark in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) a total of 145 games with the Toronto Maple Leafs, includbefore plying their skills on a professional level -- including a 23-goal performance during the 1992-93 campaign. ing the National Hockey League -- are dedicating their You see players take one, two, three or even five years services to helping youngsters grow and become quality away from the game because playing professionally truly individuals on and away from the ice surface, beginning takes its toll physically and mentally. Sooner or later, June 2 at the Legends Centre. though, you want to get back to the sport you enjoyed the Rob Pearson, Chris Snell and Dale Craigwell --- a most and what better way is there than participating in a winger, defenceman and centre --- are housing a special hockey school and teaching others. hockey school for athletes from house league to AAA rep The passion for hockey is back for Craigwell, who has teams, with the full intention of enhancing each players taken four years away from the game, but still has a firm skill and development of the sport by featuring the fundagrasp of the idiosyncrasies of playing centre, an attribute he mentals of hockey. is anxious to relay to his students. Snell, drafted initially by the Buffalo Sabres, but playAs a centre, first off, you have to be able to skate well ing the majority of his NHL time with the Los Angeles Photo by Wally Donaldson/The Oshawa Express with good vision, says Craigwell, drafted by the San Jose Kings, initiated this venture. I had given this a lot of thought the past few years Oshawa minor hockey graduates, left to right, Dale Craigwell, Rob Pearson and Chris Sharks. His best year with the Sharks was in 1991-92, ringand I kept in touch with Rob and Dale, says Snell, who Snell are conducting a Beyond The Pond hockey school at the Legends Centre, begin- ing up 16 points in 32 outings. I want to emphasize to a child wanting to play centre to be creative, come up with groomed his junior hockey skills with the Ottawa 67s. ning June 2. ideas, because the game is so fast now players can adjust off But we were wanting to make sure we were properly stuff --- a full year hockey school. Were taking it very seriously. the first move. So there has to be an adjustment in order to ready to go ahead with it. The concept is to start on a small scale with students, gradually find the open man or score goals. This is going to be my approach. After we retired from professional hockey, our focus was getIncidentally, this school is open to boys and girls. Anyone wishting our private lives in order and decided what we were going to increasing the enrolment with time. Pearson, who also serves as a do. I actually decided this was the year to go ahead with it. Dale coach of the OUIT Ridgebacks mens hockey squad, is bringing a ing more detail can email Pearson at [email protected] or call 905-432-9315 for pricing and availability. came on board and then Rob, and we plan on making this serious couple of players on board to assist. Rob Pearson Experience on a professional level As Rob Pearson graduated out of junior to the pro ranks on various levels during the early 90s, he found the quickness of the passing game and punishing checks the two most profound adjustments he had to address. Fans of the Oshawa Generals might have felt Pearson had both down pat, especially after his trade from the Belleville Bulls to the Generals in 1990-91 when accumulating a mind-boggling 57 goals and 109 points in only 41 outings. Always considered a physical player with a keen eye for putting points on the scoreboard, Pearson acknowledges today the quality varying from the International Hockey League (IHL) to the NHL made for a special challenge throughout his professional career. Each level is harder to move the puck and the passing game gets better from tape to tape all the way up, says Pearson, who played in the NHL with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Washington Capitals and the St. Louis Blues. And the goaltenders going from post to post Pearson, the second pick of the Leafs during the 1989 entry draft, says his best time was on a line with John Cullen and Wendel Clark. I scored 23 goals that year, but I learned a great deal from those two guys, recalls Pearson, married to Robyn with one son, Luke 7. I loved playing in Toronto APRIL 16 2008 because since I was so young, I was still interested in learning the game. I was playing the game I loved and it wasnt as much of a business at the time. When I got older, it did become apparent that it was more of a business. It was important to me to keep the fun in the game. You have to or you wont survive. The Leafs moved Pearson to the Caps during the 1993-94 season. Well, you could move freely around Washington without anyone knowing you, unlike Toronto, says Pearson with a laugh. We made the playoffs with a mediocre team, but got beat out in the first round. It was a little surprising with players like Petr Bondra and Dale Hunter on the team. We werent quite there. After a stint with the Portland Pirates of the American Hockey League (AHL), the Blues came calling and it was an enjoyable experience. St. Louis is a great hockey town, says Pearson. They have a lot of support there, maybe not the hype like Toronto, but it was enjoyable. Pearson saw duty with the St. Johns Maple Leafs and Worcester IceCats of the AHL, along with the Cleveland Lumberjacks, Orlando Solar Bears and Long Beach Ice Dogs in the I before finishing up internationally with the Frankfurt Lions in 2001 in Germany. Chris Snell Kilrea provides early education Before Chris Snell even got a whiff of professional hockey, he listened and learned from a coach with a plethora of experience. It was actually during his junior career with the Ottawa 67s when Snell gained the knowledge required, to take his game to the next level. It started with Brian Kilrea, Snell recalls. He was fantastic. We got along and hes the kind of guy where if he likes you, hell do anything for you. He treats everybody with respect and as a professional. You learn in junior how to deal with the media and how to deal with the things outside of hockey. I remember going to tryouts in Ottawa as a 16 year old and as you might expect, there were like 15 fights in five minutes and I, obviously, wasnt a fighter. Brian told me I was going to be on the team regardless. He stuck with me and once I got my first exhibition game under my belt, the confidence level soared. Although his experience in the NHL was limited, Snell, married to Dayne with two children, Mason 8, and Quinn, 5, made the best of his opportunities wherever he played, especially in 1994 when he received the Eddie Shore Award as the American Hockey Leagues outstanding defenceman. During his tenure with the St. Johns Maple Leafs, Snell was very impressive with 22 goals and 96 points in 75 outings. A seventh round draft pick of the Buffalo Sabres, Snell never had the opportunity to put on the jersey for a regular season game. Rick Dudley was the coach at the time and he was a fitness freak, says Snell. I never saw a training camp like that and it opened my eyes. It gave me a very good idea of what was expected of a player on an elite level. I did get in some exhibition games playing with Alexander Mogilny and Pierre Turgeon. I played with some pretty good hockey players and it was quite a treat. Snell did play two games with the Toronto Maple Leafs and added another 32 games to his resume in 1994 with the Los Angeles Kings. For most of his career, Snell made his valued contributions in the American and International circuits with Binghamton Rangers, Rochester Americans, Phoenix Roadrunners and Indianapolis Ice. He closed out his professional career in Germany with the Frankfurt Lions. Dale Craigwell Sharks gave centre chance to flourish When the Oshawa Generals snapped a 40-year jinx by capturing the Canadian Memorial Cup title 18 years ago in Hamilton, centre Dale Craigwell knew he was a participant to something very special. Generals, defeating the Kitchener Rangers in the final, combined talent with an interesting mixture of athletes beginning with the naturally gifted Eric Lindros to the intensity of Craigwell, who had a goal and five assists in four Memorial Cup outings. Im very proud of it right up to this day, says Craigwell, who, along with his wife Nicole, have two children, Brayden 8, and Stella, 4. It was a very special team. It took a lot of practice and we came together at the right time. It started when Eric came to the team in January and he took our team to another level. Ill never forget the first practice we had at the North Oshawa Arena. I mean, the tempo was NHL calibre. It was fantastic. We actually thought we already had a good team before Eric got there. But he came out and the pace of that practice was what we were not doing before. Craigwell thought his smaller size would have an impact in his selection at the 1991 NHL Entry Draft in Buffalo. Yet, he was also convinced by various scouts that he would be selected somewhere in the top four rounds. His resume was impressive, including a trip to the World Junior Championship. Craigwell racked up 27 goals and 95 points in 56 outings during his final year with the Generals. So, I went to the draft thinking top four rounds and I sat right through to the seventh round and I didnt get my name called. A lot of players I thought were not as good as me got drafted. I left the draft very upset. I had no plans of coming back. My father did stay there and he called me at the hotel to tell me that the San Jose Sharks selected me in the 10th round. It didnt matter. I was still upset, but he told me to get down there. I did and shook hands with the people at the San Jose table. Craigwell went to camp and found a roster spot with the Sharks. There were only a handful of players across the entire league that actually played the first year. I leap frogged over higher draft picks to make the team. Im very proud of that. I wanted to play hard and be a winner. Thankfully, the Sharks rewarded me with the way I played at training camp. Playing 32 games with the Sharks during the 1991-92 season, Craigwell compiled five goals and 16 points. He finished the season with the Kansas City Blades in the I and returned to the Sharks the following year. With the exception of one season in San Francisco with the Spiders, Craigwell found a home with the Blades under head coach Kevin Constantine, currently with the Sharks. I learned so much from him, says Craigwell. I credit him as my best coach who influenced me. Craigwell finished in the Euro league with the Sheffield Steelers in Britain. Page 19 Whitby foursome drops playoff outing Stickhandling Hockeys lost art Peltzer rink stickhandles to Ontario win By Wally Donaldson The Oshawa Express In keeping with tradition, the fervent rivalry that exists between Peterborough and any organization within the Durham Region --- be it hockey, slopitch or probably Texas poker -- occurs on the pebbled ice. Although Whitby skip Trevor Birckbeck shrugged off any thoughts of this spirited clash between two communities, Harold Peltzer, who heads up the Peterborough Curling Club contingent, is fully aware. We havent really played too many teams from Whitby, Peltzer offers with a grin, but any time we play a team from Oshawa, you can see that extra sparkle in their eyes. There is something definitely there. We get revved up, too. The Peltzer foursome made the best of its opportunities to score a 6-4 victory over Birckbeck in an extra playoff matchup to emerge Ontario Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company Stick Curling champions at the Whitby Curling Club. Based on a round robin format, Peltzer needed only a victory in his seventh and final outing to automatically record the title. However, Peltzers 6-3 loss to Burlingtons Tom Newcomb, complemented by Birckbecks 7-4 win over Rio Titus of Navan, resulted in a 52 record for each finalist, con- stituting the extra game to decide an overall winner. Peltzer, curling with Bruce McArthur, Jerry Powers and Dave Dodd, executed a perfect draw to the four-foot in the seventh end to spoil Birckbecks bid to count. He made a shot that practically made it impossible for me to count, r e c a l l s Birckbeck. We almost chipped him out to score one, but we didnt. Almost was not good Photo by Wally Donaldson/The Oshawa Express enough. Whitby skip Trevor Birckbeck delivers his rock with his front end of second Dale Boyce and T h e lead Don Sullivan prepared to do the sweeping during the Ontario Stick Curling P e t e r b o r o u g h Championships at the Whitby Curling Club. The Whitby rink settled for second best, losing to rink stole the last Peterboroughs Harold Peltzer in an extra playoff game. two ends, the eighth when was keen. three senior mixed playdowns. Birckbecks attempted draw to Peltzer has been involved in Got a second in senior mixed, the rings for two with hopes of stick curling these past five but thats as close as I got to forcing an extra end, ended years following two hit winning anything. heavy and onto his own rock. replacements and a knee operaBirckbecks foursome of (Peltzer) had one in the tion. Ive waited a long time to vice Ron Robbins, second Dale front of the house, explains win a provincial champi- Boyce and lead Don Sullivan Birckbeck of the eighth end, onship, he says. I couldnt entered this championship with and I wanted to come in there win one in conventional curl- fervour. We were hoping to using the same ice we had been ing. My wife and I curled get to the final and it was a using for draws. About halfway together for 14 years and got to slippery slope, said Boyce. down, I knew it was heavy. It three provincial mixed and Oshawa boxers hope opportunity knocks Eight members of the Oshawa Motor City Boxing Club will be featured at an Opportunity Knocks boxing card Sunday at LeSkratch, starting at 2 p.m. The headline event will focus on Motor Citys Colin Fish, who will face David Jenner of KAYO in the senior classification. There are 15 confirmed bouts for this card, beginning with Brandon Fitzgerald of Kingston taking on McGrorys Greg Young. Page 20 Second bout of the day features Nathan Schoolcraft of Motor City against Sam Pada of King of the Ring in a senior event. This is their debut in the ring. John Tello of Bramalea will take on Samuel Vargas of Alliance in the third bout, followed by Luke Caride of the Motor City club against Jorge Puebla of Champions. David Ladd of Gale Kerwin, with 22 fights to his resume, will take on Benjamin Kakonge of King of the Ring, who has fought 11 times. The female bout will highlight Tan White of Motor City against Courtney Doupe of Kingston. Steven Wilcox of Steeltown has 90 bouts to his credit. He will take on Carlton Angus, with 20 fights, of Alliance. Kyle Wright of Motor City will conclude the first half of the card against Cody Crowley of Boxing Factory. Following intermission, Logan Cotton of Alliance will fight Sumit Manu of King of the Ring, followed by Evan Gilland of Motor City against Kingstons Willie Lake. Timothy Smith of Boxing Factory meets Kevin Higson of Steeltown, followed by Shawn Maddox-Vogel of Motor City against Kingsley Alexander of Alliance. Chad Compeau of Kingston will fight Brandon Cook of Durham BA and the following bout prior to the main event will feature two fighters each 235 lbs. Motor Citys Frankie Rill, with 31 fights, will take on Rock Bosquet of Gale Kerwin, who has 23 fights to his credit. The Dec. 16, 2007 issue of the Toronto Sun included a sports department feature, Shining S t a r s . Essentially it compiled the best NHL players in various categories, in the opinion of hockey writers from various Canadian newspapers. Some of the choices involved the Hardest Shot, the Best Skater, the Best At Faceoffs, and the Best Stickhandler. That which is considered stickhandling in modern times is, nevertheless, hockeys lost art. Granted, there are some skaters who dominate in controlling the old boot heel in the New Millenniumplayers chosen by this panel of expertsPavel Datsyuk, Sidney Crosby, and Alexei Kovalev. Vincent Lecavelier, Tomas Kaberle, and Milan Hejduk could easily be added to that list. But the skill to which this writer refers goes beyond being able to deke two or three players in moving the disc from one point on the ice to another. A popular synonym in the good old days was ragging the puck. Simply put, it referred to a lone player nabbing the rubber and keeping it on his stick without losing it for an extended period of time. The gap between that and what is called stickhandling today is alluded to by the comments recorded in the Feb. 1, 1950 Toronto Star by sports editor Milt Dunnell. When the Rangers manager, Lester Patrick, touted a prospect as the best stickhandler Ive seen in ten years, the dean of sportswriters cracked: Pray tell, what would a stickhandler do in this league? He was backed by former NHL President Red Duttons seemingly caustic remark: There havent been any stickhandlers in hockey since 1943! That date connects with the addition of the red line, the purpose of which was to speed up the game, and reduce offsides (official NHL wording in the rules). Various changes have been made to the offside rule over the years, allowing passing from one point on the playing surface to another. But true puck ragging was the result of the original format of the game. With no forward passing, the onus was on a skater to gain and keep possession until he moved into a scoring position. Now, despite the sarcasm from the esteemed shinny icons above, there have been some excellent puck handlers since 1943. In his book, The Chicago Blackhawk Story, George Vass excitedly records Stan Mikitas killing off 30 seconds of a team penalty. When Bobby Orr was wowing fans and peers alike as rookie Boston Bruin, Gordie Howe commented: He plays a funny kind of game. He doesnt let anybody touch the puck! By the time Mario Lemieux crashed the NHL scene, even though it was said he kept the puck on his stick like it was on a string!, there was so much hooking, clutching and grabbing, that his marvelous natural talent was almost buried. But, going back to this art of stickhandling in its purest sense, we catch up with Frank Nighbor of the original Ottawa Senators in 1923. In the Stanley Cup finals against Vancouver, a journalist reported that with the Senators leading by one goal, with two minutes left, and with three of his cohorts in the sin bin: he commenced stickhanding, working himself into such a frenzy, that only his jubilant teammates broke his momentum 10 seconds after the game-ending whistle. Thats true puck ragginga thing of artistry to behold! Next Week: Stickhandlingpart 2 APRIL 16 2008 Dogs are tamed, now its the Bulls series between the Kitchener Rangers and Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. Second game is Friday night at the GM Centre, starting at 7:35. Game three is back in Belleville By Wally Donaldson The Oshawa Express on Saturday with the fourth in Oshawa Monday evening, beginNow that the Dogs have been ning at 7:05. iced in these Ontario Hockey A side note to this series is the League (OHL) playoffs, the Generals opening a playoff series Oshawa Generals have since on the road. turned their attention to a bigger, We won twice in their buildmore dangerous and tempestuous ing and lost two overtime games. opponent --- the Bulls! We have played well (at Yardmen And it all starts tonight in Arena). We just have to go out Belleville with the survivor of there (tonight) and take advantage this best-of-seven Eastern of that, says Generals skipper Conference final advancing to the Chris DePiero. OHL championship against the After the Niagara IceDogs put winner of the Western Conference the bite on the Generals 8-3 last Friday night at the GM Centre, there were a few faithful resigned to the fact a seventh and deciding game could become a distinct reality in Oshawa. However, a solid fourpoint performance by Dale Mitchell, including three goals, elevated the Generals to a 5-2 victory last Sunday afternoon at Jack Gatecliff Arena in St. Catharines to win the series 4-2. A win last Friday in Oshawa would have sealed the deal for the Generals and nobody knew that better than the players, according to DePiero. We got overly excited about the possibility of finishing (the series) out and we wanted to do it at home, he said. It Photos by Wally Donaldson/The Oshawa Express affected their performDaryl Borden has played an integral part in goal ance. So, on Saturday at for the Generals since the injury of Michal practice, we just got back Borden gathers first playoff win in finale Neuvirth last Friday at the GM Centre. to the basics by keeping it simple. To their credit, they executed. Mitchell concurs, adding, The first 10 minutes were going to be crucial and they got up on us 2-0. They didnt look back. But we did repay them on Sunday by working hard like we always do. With Daryl Borden in goal for the injured Michal Neuvirth, the Generals fired the final three goals of the game --- two in the third period, including an emptynet marker by Patrick Asselin --to advance to the conference final. Asselin also scored in the weird opening stanza where all four goals, two by each team, were powerplay tallies. John Tavares, again the playmaker, contributed four helpers. It was important for us to stay in control of our emotions and not get too high or too low with the crowd because it was a very loud rink, DePiero adds. Borden was called on midway through the second period in Fridays tilt when Neuvirth injured himself twice around the groin area, the final which led to a Niagara shorthanded tally. With Neuvirth a no-go on Sunday, Borden, looking for his first playoff victory after four misses during his previous tenure in Kingston, stepped in admirably. He was quick to signal to his teammates that goaltending would not be an Achilles heel on that day. He did win 16 hockey games for us this year and he is a very capable goaltender, DePiero continues. It meant a lot to him to have a big part in this teams success. The Generals and Bulls are obviously familiar with each other, says DePiero, and its going to be all about execution Photo by Wally Donaldson/The Oshawa Express The ice surface at the GM Centre will have a new look when the Oshawa Generals play their second game of the Eastern Conference Final against the Belleville Bulls Friday night. Rob Gray and Brian Slade apply the final touch to the logo for the Ontario Hockey League championship series. and managing the emotions of the series. Generals will have to contend with puckstopper Mike Murphy who earlier was named the OHL Goaltender of the Year, recording a 36-7-3-1 record and a 2.24 goals-against average. P.K. Subban leads the Bulls in post-season play with six goals and 12 points in nine outings. Jan Mursak and Matt Belesky each have recorded 11 points. A local flavoring is the coach behind the Belleville bench. George Burnett served as the Generals head coach and general manager from 20002004. They play very disciplined as the least penalized team in the league. They are very structured and well just have to manage our game plan in order to be success- ful and let the results take care of itself, concludes DePiero. Oshawa vs Belleville playoff schedule Game 1 Tonight at Belleville, 7:15 p.m. Game 2 Friday at Oshawa (7:35 p.m.) Game 3 Saturday at Belleville, 7:15 p.m. Game 4 Monday at Oshawa (7:05 p.m.) Game 5 April 23 at Belleville, 7:15 p.m.* Game 6 April 25 at Oshawa (7:35 p.m.) Game 7 April 27 at Belleville, 7:15 p.m. * Rowley moves up a rung A familiar face will patrol the bench for the Durham Lords mens basketball squad next OCAA season. Desmond Rowley, a native of Ajax who served as an assistant coach for four seasons, will utilize his skills as a teacher of fundamentals of the game, according to Ken Babcock, athletic director at the college. Rowley takes over for Peter Gordon, who announced his resignation shortly after the final game at Fanshawe College this past season. He has had success at the high school level with the vaunted Eastern Commerce and he has been a valuable part of our varsity program as an assistant. We look forward to what Desmond can bring to our program now as our head coach, said Babcock. .In his eight seasons with Eastern Commerce, Rowley was instrumental in developing the program into a nationally recognized basketball powerhouse. He led the Saints to five TSSAA League Championships and two OFSAA Championships (1993 and 1994). Eastern Commerce also made it to the championship final in 1998. Durham College will be known as the APRIL 16 2008 Desmond Rowley team that works hard for forty minutes, says the new coach. Anyone who plays us will have to outwork us to win. Rowleys ability to recruit, energize and teach the game is also going to bring success to the program. I believe that if you give young people a voice in decisions pertaining to the team, it will result in hard work, responsibility and accountability, adds Rowley. Page 21 Residential Classified Ads Call 905-571-7334 $21 (plus gst) for 25 words Business Classified Ads Call 905-571-7334 $21 for a 1 col x 1 (Boxed) (plus gst) $42 for a 1 col x 2 (Boxed) (plus gst) EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT Earn $11 hr. Contact us today! EMPLOYMENT FINANCIAL FINANCIAL FINANCIAL WANTED Experienced Hairstylists and Estheticians in a fast pace salon. Chair rentals available. For more information please call Carolyn. FT/PT - flexible schedule - 7 days a week. 1-888-974-JOBS T043030508 Equal employment opportunity employer LIGHTING PLUS 905-721-0548. Is Seeking A Part-Time Retail Sales Associate/ Interior Decorator Place an ad here Call 905571-7334 Email resume & cover letter to: [email protected] Check out our website: www.oshawaexpress.ca ARTICLES WANTED Dorsey Antiques will buy your Vintage Treasures, old jewellery, Pottery, figurines and Post Cards. Call before you give it away. 1-877-454-3514. Student work program 12 to 18 years old. Must be reliable. Cash paid nightly. Supervision and transportation will be provided selling chocolates door-to-door. Call 905-439-9358. THE BEST DEAL IN TOWN! Page 22 905-571-7334 Fax: 905-571-0255 Place your ad here Call 905-571-7334 email [email protected] Email: [email protected] APRIL 16 2008 Residential Classified Ads Call 905-571-7334 $21 (plus gst) for 25 words Business Classified Ads Call 905-571-7334 $21 for a 1 col x 1 (Boxed) (plus gst) $42 for a 1 col x 2 (Boxed) (plus gst) FOR SALE FOR SALE FOR SALE RENTALS RENTALS RENTALS REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE West Park Village, Cobourg 5 Models To View Towns From $200s The Wellington 1731 or 1741 sq ft INCREDIBLE LOFT DESIGN: Main floor master with ensuite and 2 additional loft bedrooms. Main floor laundry, open ceiling loft from living room. The Brighton 1653 or 1838 Sq ft Soaring ceiling open to loft area, main floor master with ensuite, 2 floor plans allow for additional 3rd bedroom in loft. Singles From $240s OFFICE SPACE 800 sq. ft. Office Space, Hwy 401 location in Oshawa. Lots of parking, large, open space, move-in ready. $800/mnth, utilities included. Call 905-434-7409. Room for rent All inclusive Close to amenities and university. Shared accommodations. No smoking, no pets. $425/mnth. Call evenings and leave a message. 905-721-2578 VACATION RENTALS HOME CARE The Kensington 1634 or 1637 sq ft Bungalow 2 elevations available, separate dining room, master with ensuite. Main floor laundry, kitchen open concept with great room. The Windsor 1759 - 1782 sq ft Outstanding bungalow layout with 3 bedrooms, main floor family room and laundry. The Brock 1561 sq ft bungalow Covered wrap around porch bungalow with loft. 4 bdrms in all, 2 bedrooms on main floor, master with ensuite. Very nice layout. Al Home Sitters Home sitting, outside maintenance, mail gathering and emergency service. Call for more information on services. 905-723-4156 WERE THERE WHEN YOURE NOT DAY CARE Brand New home day care opening in August. Huge main floor play room, large outdoor playground. Homemade lunches. Limited space. Call Kathy at 905-721-2894 SERVICE DIRECTORY Ads Call 905-5717334 $21 for a 1 col x 1 (Boxed) (plus gst) $42 for a 1 col x 2 (Boxed) (plus gst) Contractors Contractors Contractors CUSTOM PAINTING Contractors J&B Contracting Ryan Appleton NO JOB TOO SMALL FREE ESTIMATES, Painting, Electrical, Drywall, basements, roofing, fences, decks, windows, soffit, fascia Clip and Save. 1-877-454-3514 Painting Contractor Interior/Exterior for FREE ESTIMATE Quality Workmanship Generation to Generation Call 905-260-1083 BRITE ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS *Knob & Tube *Code Corrections *Upgrades *Renovations *Fixture Installation Fully Insured Master Electrician (905) 240-4703 ECRA/ESA Lic. # 706047 AJs Waterproofing Inc. Foundation Cracks Concrete Work Bobcat Service Drain & Water line repair Demolition & Excavation Underpinning Basements 905-427-8560 Free Estimates THE BEST DEAL IN TOWN! APRIL 16 2008 Place your ad here. Contractors DOYLE CARPENTRY Interior & Exterior Renovations * Basements * Sheds * Decks * Framing * Drywall and Painting *Hardwood and Laminate Floors *Doors and Trim Call Jeff: 905-697-2106 Roofing Call 905-5717334 or email advertising@ oshawaexpress.ca Phone: 905-571-7334 Fax: 905-571-0255 OBITUARIES Sales Centre Hours Mon-Thurs: 12pm - 6pm Wknds: 11am - 5pm 1-888-245-5494 1-888-245-5494 www.vandyk.com INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED Place an ad here Call 905571-7334 OBITUARIES BOONE Frederick Glen Roy OBITUARIES BUTTON, Dorothy Marie (30 year member of Canadian Corps Womens Auxiliary; retired employee of Oshawa General Hospital) After a lengthy illness, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa on Sunday, April 13, 2008, Marie (nee Cameron) in her 74th year. Beloved wife of the late Kenneth Button, Roy Larmer and Bill Allan. Loving mother of Karen Larmer-Morin and her husband Wilfrid, Cassal Larmer and his wife Sheila, the late Bernice and her husband Roy Packer. Fondly remembered by her grandchildren Shannon, Stacey, Chastity, Brandy, James, Erica, Brent, Brittany and great-grandchildren Katlin, Rebecca and Memphis. Dear sister of John and his wife Millie Cameron, Silvia Tino, Brian and his wife Roselyn Terry. Relatives and friends may pay their respects at the McINTOSH-ANDERSON FUNERAL HOME LTD., 152 King St. E., Oshawa (905-433-5558) on Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Aservice will be held in the chapel on Friday, April 18, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. Cremation. Donations made in memory of Marie to The Sick Kids Foundation would be appreciated by her family. On-line condolences may be made at www.mcintoshanderson.com. Passed away suddenly at home in Oshawa, on Sunday, April 6, 2008. A loving son, a big brother and caring friend will be missed by a large family and circle of friends. Glen was predeceased by his father Zenas Roy of Botwood, Newfoundland. Left to mourn are his sons Christopher and Jamie; his mother Edith Jean; brothers Tony (Esther), Gary (Brenda Lee), Wayne (Diane), Jim, Mike (Denise), Patrick (Bev), Craig (Gail), and Paul (Sherry); sisters Carol (Gordon), Jean (Chris), Rose (Gilbert), Sheila (Hughie), Kim (Glen) and Rhonda (Bill); many nieces and nephews. Also left to mourn, dear friends Josie, Chantel and Kyleen Biron and John and Amie Vink. Service in celebration of his life was held at McINTOSH-ANDERSON FUNERAL HOME LTD. Donations made in memory of Glen to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Canadian Diabetes Association would be appreciated. Email: [email protected] Page 23 Page 24 APRIL 16 2008
Similar documents
Teens tackle police duties
seem like an engaging, educational experience. In fact, its a brilliant, creative exercise in recruitment. What better way to ensure a future police force than to draw them in as teens and give yo...
More information