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8 Independent & Free Press,Thursday, May 12, 2011 Acton student strikes gold at Ontario Tech challenge Jon Van Oosten, a Grade 11 student at Acton High School, captured the gold medal in Architectural Technology and Design at the 22nd Ontario Technological Skills Competition held at Rim Park in Kitchener last week. At more than 325,000 square feet, the event is the largest skilled trades competition in Canada and this year it hosted more than 30,000 spectators, and more than 1,800 competitors in 63 skilled trade contest areas for elementary, secondary and post-secondary students from across the province. The Acton High School team of student Jon Van Oosten and technological design teacher Norbert Axtmann, were there to represent the Halton Board of Education in the Architectural Technology and Design Competition. The pair had prepped for many hours prior to the provincials, but once the competition started it became a solo event for Van Oosten as he competed for six hours against a field of 23 competitors. He was required to demonstrate, through practical and theoretical application, his skills and task knowledge in the field of architectural design and drafting using the medium of computer aided drafting. The challenge required students to redesign the interior layout of an existing residence, create an in-law suite out of the existing garage area, and establish the style, and finish of the exterior of the house. A total of nine architectural drawings were required in the six-hour competition and Van Oosten completed all nine, and even threw in an additional detail drawing for good measure. For his efforts Van Oosten won the coveted first place award and the Ontario gold medal. As the closing ceremony was wind- Creatures of the Night Get Your Gardening On! Saturday, May 14 7:00 p.m. ­ 8:30 p.m. For everyone At dusk, many creatures often described as "mysterious" or "spooky" emerge to venture into the night. Come experience the sights and sounds of these animals and find out why they prefer the dark. Saturday, May 28 10 a.m. ­ 11:30 p.m. For everyone Spring has sprung and now is time to get your hands dirty with "Guerrilla Gardening." Dig in and create your own recyclable flower pot, discover some alternative gardening ideas and more! Enjoy a complimentary seed package and tree plug for your garden. JON VAN OOSTEN ing down, Van Oosten was called back on stage to accept the Award of Excellence and a $1,500 scholarship to pursue post-secondary education or skills training. Sponsored by the Ontario Council for Technology Education (OCTE), this award is presented to the secondary student who had earned the highest mark of any the secondary competitions at this year's provincials. Van Oosten will now be representing Ontario at the Canadian Skills Competition in Quebec City, May 30-June 4. In total, Halton students earned 11 medals at the provincials this year-- five gold, three silver and three bronze. --Article provided by Norbert Axtmann, Technological Design Acton High School Suggested donation of $5 per person along with gate admission. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED at education@creditvalleyca.ca or call 905-670-1615 ext 436. Terra Cotta Conservation Area, 14452 Winston Churchill Blvd., Halton Hills. www.creditvalleyca.ca/education 1 Day Sale! Sat May 28th 10:00 `til Sat. til 2:00 Super Savings and Discounts! Great New Items You Must See! Enter Our Gift Basket Draw! Join Brampton's Top Gymnastics Centre Great Programs Are Worth The Drive To Brampton! Meet Our Special Guest: M Brilliant B ri Been-A-Boob® Breast Form Janet J a Cockburn Of O f Janac Mastectomy Featuring Her As A sseenon s seen on Dragon's Den! Recreational Gymnastics & Trampoline Classes Tumbling Camps/ Classes beginner to advanced! Summerfun Day Camps with Advanced Tumbling Clean, 17,000 sq. ft. CHOCK-FULL of great equipment! Plenty of viewing for parents and onsite Café Exceptional Competitive programs - call today for a tryout! Friendly Customer Service 10 am 8 pm! Outstanding (95% adult) Coaching Staff! We prorate Programs for ages Pre-school to teens! Save 100 per Competitive Gymnast Save 25 for Recreational Child With this ad. Applies to new & returning members, expires Aug. 31, 2011 $ $ ...at Young's Pharmacy & Homecare 47 main Street South in Downtown Georgetown Call today to book your private consultation: (905) 873-4021 ext. 133 55 Regan Rd # 1 Brampton (Bovaird E to McLaughlin Rd N, R on Lowry Dr, L on Regan Rd to #55 on R) 905-495-9950 www.AllStarSportsCentre.com