Politicians good sports with grant money By David Lea OAKVILLE BEAVER STAFF 3 · OAKVILLE BEAVER Wednesday, July 8, 2009 Two Oakville sports facilities can look forward to a world-class makeover courtesy of a $1.33 million infrastructure grant from the federal and provincial governments. This latest infrastructure funding initiative, which will also see the Town of Oakville chip in $667,000, was announced Thursday from the torn-up soccer field of the Bronte Athletic Park. This park, located in the area of 2184 Hixon St., will receive $500,000 from each level of government for a multi-use artificial turf field with permanent markings. "Recreational infrastructure strengthens our communities physically and economically," said Oakville MP Terence Young. "These projects will bring people together to get fit and have fun as well as create local jobs. Something this government is committed to." Once complete, the field will accommodate a variety of sports including soccer, baseball, foot- "These projects will bring people together to get fit and have fun as well as create local jobs. Something this government is committed to do." Oakville MP Terence Young GOOD SPORTS: On hand for the announcement of an infrastructure grant for the Bronte Athletic Park were (l-r) Oakville MP Terence Young, Oakville Soccer Club Chief Administrative Officer Jean Gandubert, Oakville MPP Kevin Flynn, Mayor Rob Burton, Ward 1 Councillor Ralph Robinson and Ward 1 Councillor Alan Johnston. ball, field hockey and field lacrosse. Officials from the Parks and Open Space department have noted a considerable growth in the number of residents participating in these sports and there are limited fields available for use by all groups. The funding will also cover enhancements to the existing changerooms and seating areas, which will be needed to accommodate the park's increased use. "This funding will help build a healthier and stronger Oakville by bringing residents together, whether as athletes or as spectators, said Oakville MPP Kevin Flynn. "This investment is a part of a broader commitment by our government to stimulate Ontario's economy through unprecedented and targeted infrastructure spending." Oakville Soccer Club Chief Administrative Officer Jean Gandubert also spoke during the announcement pointing to the importance of bringing an artificial turf to the Bronte Athletic Park. "Any of the fields that have lights, it makes so much sense to convert them to artificial turf because you can increase the number of hours it is available," he said. "This field is mostly used by adults and it gets ripped up very quickly. I also think it will protect the other fields because you can move activities here that have a higher rate of wear and tear. I think this is great news." Gandubert said the announcement is particularly great news for football players who sometimes lose access to fields because of the extreme damage done to the field by their training. The Bronte Athletic Park is not the only place reaping the benefits of the funding announcement with the federal and provincial governments also passing out $167,000 to upgrade the Kinoak Arena, 363 Warminster Dr. The funds will pay for the replacement of the arena's front entrance in order to make it wheelchair accessible; the recladding of brick; repairs to the roof, including the replacement of portions of the flat roof with green roof technology; and the addition of a marquee sign and flag pole. "We are pleased to partner with the federal and provincial governments to improve and enhance our recreation facilities for Oakville residents," said Mayor Rob Burton. Both projects will be ready to tender in the fall. Bad advice leads to charge An Oakville man is facing numerous criminal charges after giving a suspected drunk driver the wrong kind of advice at the scene of a Sunday accident. The incident began at around 9 p.m. when an off-duty Peel Regional Police officer overheard a man telling an impaired driving suspect how to avoid criminal charges after she was involved in an accident at Dundas Street and Neyagawa Boulevard. The off-duty Peel officer identified himself and told the man to remain at the scene until the Halton Regional Police arrived. At this point, the man allegedly assaulted the Peel officer, punching him in the face and arm. The arrival of a Halton police officer failed to diffuse matters with the altercation continuing as both constables attempted to arrest the man. The man was eventually handcuffed and brought under control, but not before the Halton police officer suffered a leg injury requiring medical attention. "He put too much weight on the officer's leg," said Sgt. Brian Carr, Halton police public affairs officer. "It resulted in strained ligaments and whatnot, he'll be off work for a while." The Peel police officer did not sustain injuries requiring medical attention. Michael John Busija, 29, has been charged with obstructing police officer and two counts of assaulting a police officer. The woman involved in the accident is facing an impaired driving charge. A STORY OF STYLE Let our designers and product selection take you to another place. Elegance, Stylish, Sophisticated, or Sleek We can transform any space! We specialize in importing and distributing unique Ceramics, Porcelain, Travertine, Marble, Glass, Custom Medallions and mosiacs from Around the World. 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