> t i 4 The Canadian Statesman, Bowmanvillc, Wednesday, January 4,1995 Ifit Canadian Statesman Former Publishers and Partners Rev. John M. Climie and W. R. Climie 1854 -1878 M. A. James, 1878 -1935 • Norman S. B. James, 1919 -1929 G. Elena James, 1929 -1947 • Dr. George W. James, 1919 - 1957 Produced weekly by James Publishing Company Limited P.O. Box 190,62 King St. W., Bowmanvillc, Ontario L1C 3K9 905-623-3303 Fax 905-623-6161 For 141 Years, Our First Concern Has Been Our Community Publisher - John M. James Assoc. Publisher - Richard A. James Plant Manager-Donald J. Bishop Ad. Manager-Brian G. Purdy Editor-Peter Parrott Production Rick Patterson, Laurens Kaldcway, Doug Lugtenburg, Sharon McMullen, Barb Patterson, Ralph Rozcma, Jim Snock, Vance Sutherland, Jim Tuuramo Advertising Editorial Laverne Morrison Brad Kelly, Lorraine Manfredo, Laura J. Richards Office Angela Luschcr, Debbie Chamberlain, Junia Hodge, Grace McGregor, Nancy Plcasance-Sturman, Marilyn Rutherford Stay Tuned for Events That Will Shape 1995 Rather than looking back to the triumphs and shortcomings of 1994, let's start the new year by looking at some of the challenges which await. On the international scene, it seems that the world will still be rocked by nasty civil wars and conflicts which we might dismiss as small-scale unless we happen to be in the middle of such turmoil. We don't sec realistic chances for peace in places such as the former Soviet Union, the Middle East, former Yugoslavia, and parts of Africa. This makes us wonder if, in 1995, some countries will re-think the role of United Nations peacekeeping personnel. Clearly, the peace hasn't been kept. Is the job of UN peacekeepers worthwhile in the midst of conflicts that neither side wants to end? In Canada, 1995 will be a pivotal year for the national unity issue. Let us just sum it up in two words: "Quebec referendum." And, as far as the Canadian economic scene is concerned, the future can also be summed up in two words: "Interest rates." If these rates arc manageable, the economic recovery may continue. If rates rise too fast, we'd be wise to batten down the hatches and prepare for another recession or the sequel to the recession of the early 1990s. Of course, a major issue for federal and provincial governments in 1995 will continue to be the reduction of the deficit. Elected officials must somehow reduce the deficit without increasing taxes or cutting spending in popular categories such as education or health care. Sounds like a tall order. Ontario will head for the polling booths sometime this spring, from all indications. Of course, the election could take place as late as next fall. As is often the case when an unpopular government is up for re-election, there is considerable interest over who will be the standard-bearer for the opposition parlies in the local riding. Look for some interesting candidate selection meetings for the Liberals and Progressive Conservatives. And now for the municipal level: Look for the federal and provincial infrastructure money to continue to filter into the community. A number of projects were already begun last year. But the Courtice community project will be a major new municipal initiative which should get underway in 1995. There was also talk in the municipal elections about a second ice pad at the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex in Bowmanvillc. Perhaps we'll hear more about this topic. Also in the new year, we can expect to see further action on building four new schools to meet an ever-increasing population growth. These include the replacement for the Newcastle Public School, the new elementary public school for Bowmanvillc and the new elementary and secondary schools to be built by the separate school board. The two public schools are expected to be under construction by the middle of the year. We doubt that the separate schools will be far behind. For the Clarington Hydro Commission, the challenging question of amalgamation will be under discussion. Will the areas currently served by Ontario Hydro be taken over by the Clarington Hydro Commission in whole or in part? How will this takeover affect existing Clarington Hydro customers? At the Lake Ontario waterfront, look for the completion of the Clarington section of the waterfront trail. Also, the Waterfront Regeneration Trust will render its recommendations concerning the future of the West Side Creek Marsh. You may recall this wetland is slated for limestone quarrying by St. Marys Cement. Still on the environmental front, the provincial government should be coming up with a policy governing the future of the Oak Ridges Moraine. A technical working committee has submitted its recommendation. A response from the provincial authorities is expected in a few months. If 1995 is anything like the last few years, we will see continued growth in new home construction within Bowmanvillc, Courtice and Newcastle. This growth will quite likely outpace commercial and industrial development. Clarington has invested fairly heavily in promoting the town's potential for development in areas other than the housing sector. Let us hope that this effort continues in 1995 and that it shows results. Speaking of the town's commercial development, there arc indications that the west end Bowmanvillc shopping plaza may be under construction before the end of 1995. The municipality apparently wants to see construction proceed as soon as possible. But, there are still numerous details to be worked out before the new plaza becomes a reality. The impact of the plaza on the historic downtown Bowmanvillc core will be an ongoing concern. As we look to 1995, it appears that there could be increasing emphasis placed on "moral" issues and the debate of these issues in the public forum. Since late last year, there has been an ongoing discussion over the appropriateness of the Timothy Findley novel "The Wars" in senior high school classes. A group which stresses its pro-life and pro-family beliefs is currently in charge of the Durham Liberal Party federal riding association. Given developments such as these, we cannot help but wonder if we are seeing a resurgence in small-c conservative values. It's, a trend that has already been noted in the U.S. and we all know that trends south of the border have a way of affecting Canada too. Finally, there arc die two most obvious cultural issues worrying every Canadian: Will there be a baseball season in 1995? Will there be a hockey season in 1995? All in all, 1995 looks like a very interesting year. Stay tuned. Councillor Reflects on 1994 And Requests Input for 1995 Letter to the Editor: I trust everyone has been relaxed and refreshed for 1995, We all have natch to be thankful for and certainly we must always remember that as we look ahead and make plans for the coming year. As I reflect on 1994, it is with pride in my community that 1 recall the public hearings chaired by David Crombic held in December on the Wcstside Creek Marsh and St. Marys Cement. Obviously, St. Marys put on it very professional presentation presentation in support of their need to quarry the Marsh. However, Lea Houston did make a difference. The citizens who were for the most part opposed to the extension of the quarry into the marsh did themselves proud. The Port Darlington Community Association Association as well as many individuals presented presented informative and entertaining arguments. We should all appreciate what a rich community we have in both natural and human resources. Taxes are still a major issue its we on council pick up the pieces in presentation presentation for the next budget, We are challenged with building the Courtice Community Centre and operating it with no lax increase. The growth we all see and hear alxntt has two sides to it. It is great to see the prosperity but it is tough to see the gradual ero- Thank You for H'Oi-W ■ SrtTttn/Al - Dear Editor: On behalf of the Durham Region Branch of the Ontario Lupus Association, Association, I would like to thank your newspaper for the coverage that was given to us for the Lupus Anniversary Anniversary and the Wine Tasting Event. Lupus is a very unpredictable disease disease and a difficult disease. The coverage coverage that you gave will hopefully help people realize that this disease docs exist. I would also like to gratefully acknowledge acknowledge and thank the Bowman- ville Kinsmen and Kinetics and the Flying Dutchman for all their support and help to raise money for Lupus research. research. With all the cut-backs that we arc experiencing today, it is very important important that we find ways to raise money to aid in the fight against this awful disease. Again, many thanks for your coverage coverage during these events and many thanks to the people that helped and participated in the Wine Tasting Event. Yours in the fight against Lupus. Karen Thompson President Durham Region Branch. by Gord Mills, M.P.P., Durham East 1995 marks the fifth year of my weekly Queen's Park Report". Since my election I haven't missed one week telling you about things happening happening in government of interest to you all. It takes quite an effort to write every week, for sometimes the only time I have is very late on a Sunday night. Although sometimes I am templed to give the column a miss, I never give in to that feeling in the end. I am able to keep you informed through a lap-top computer, a table- top mini printer and a fax machine. Most times my wife tells me, "Get all that stuff off the table, I want to lay the table." Despite occasional clashes like that, the column does make it in time for the newspaper deadline. On that subject, I want to once again thank the Canadian Statesman, the Courtice News, the Orono Times, the Port Perry Star, and the Scugog Citizen for allowing me to communicate communicate with all the people living in the riding of Durham East through the column and through other features. This opportunity can't be measured in dollars and cents, because if it were that way I couldn't afford to begin begin to communicate with you all. These newspapers, through the publication publication of my weekly column provide an incredible service for. the belter understanding of the political process as it effects everyone, For that I am, and remain very grateful. And yes, I do get along very well with Rick James despite the odd differences of opinion, in case you think otherwise. A few weeks back I read somewhere somewhere someone said there was more to representing Durham East residents residents than through a newspaper column column or a television program. I Bti couldn't agree more with that statement. statement. What I have tried to do is combine combine good representation along with communication to those I represent at Queen's Park. From what I am hearing hearing from folks through literally hundreds hundreds and hundreds of mail-back cards we receive, the majority of people people arc very pleased with my representation. representation. I couldn't wish for better. I have now completed almost 100 television programs on a variety of subjects which arc of interest to the community at large. These programs are produced by Rogers Cable Television Television in Oshawa and the young people people who operate the cameras arc local volunteers. These programs arc all shown on the Community Channel 10 and if you haven't cable I am afraid you can't get the signal. However, we do have all the programs on video tape which can be borrowed from the constituency constituency office in Bowmanvillc. hi addition to my own weekly program, "Talking it Over With Gord" I also • appear from time to time on the program, program, "The Political Files." This program program with interviewer Rory Sheehan, centres on current political issues as they relate to government decisions or legislation. These programs arc great to take part in. Rory encourages and expects straight forward discussion discussion and not political bafflcgarb. I am always more than willing to follow that kind of format when talking politics. politics. Again, copies of this program on video arc also available through my office. Since my election in 1990,1 have debated issues in the Ontario Legislature Legislature on your behalf of over three hundred hundred occasions. I haven't been any shrinking violet down there! I have been also honoured on several occasions occasions to represent our government both at functions outside of Queen's Park and also in the Hotisc. Looking at the year which has just ended, even the most cynical anli- NDP person would agree that many, many, things have happened over the last four and a bit years in Durham East. Municipal politicians of various political stripes have all told me that never before has so much been achieved. What is even more remarkable remarkable is this has been done during a recession. recession. New schools are being built, including including the long awaited brand new Catholic High School in Bowman- ville. Our local hospitals have been upgraded, Roads all over the riding have been repaired for the first time in years. Grants to provide access to many of our local churches and public public places have been made possible. Smaller places without an industrial tax base, such as Manvers Township have benefitted through special grants. Water has been provided in communities who have waited for years for this to happen. And, on the personal side, many good things have happened for individuals individuals living in Durham East too. Intervention Intervention on behalf of many constituents constituents have resolved many of their problems. It hasn't been all a case of everyone blaming the lousy government government for everything that has gone wrong in their life. So I look forward to the New Year with a sense of having served everyone well, I know, and it would be foolish of me not to recognize the fact, that some think otherwise. One of the positions I took on behalf of the majority of the people in Durham East in 1994 took courage, lots of it. The fall-out from that is still falling. Until next week, take care of one another and feel good about it. LIO sion of the benefits of a smaller community community life. It is tough to govern today. today. You cannot have it both ways. A real problem we have is the snow removal removal by-law. From speaking to many people, they can appreciate the need to keep the sidewalk clear. However, the outstanding bills from last year arc serving as a source of aggravation and frustration to most people I speak to. Council is going to have to re-examine this whole issue. How about people who arc away visiting visiting their family on weekends and it snows while they arc away, How ct n these people clear their sidewalk in 12 hours? There arc many issues which you will hear from time to time in the paper, The new Official Plan, with the proposed expansion of population and urban area allocated. The reconsideration reconsideration of the Development Charge Levy. This levy is complex and forces both the developers and the municipality to recognize the cost of growth. Economic Development this is a high priority. The security of our community along with police protection is also going to require some serious attention, We cannot simply blame all the problems on our youth. This year we must involve the Continuod on Pago 5 We Asked... Have you made any New Year's resolutions you intend on keeping? .. .And You Said Murray Vass Bowmanvillc Sascha Hewett Bowmanvillc "Yes. My wife and I are "No, because they don't going to start working have any substance behind John Hayes Bowmanvillc "No." Other Comments: Darla Kichko, Bowmanvillc "No." Next week's question: What kind of stores would you like to see in the new plaza to be built west of the Canadian Tire store on I lighwav Two? out," them." by Laura J. Richards Î Happy New Year!!! While many OUTLOOK readers might have been working last week, I took a few days off between Christmas Christmas and New Year's. While on holidays, I spent some time reflecting on "the reason for the season." I also spent time reflecting on what a school year would be like for teachers who had to teach in a truly non-religious atmosphere. While plenty of work would be done on learning the basics, I wonder how much would actually be lost. . What if everyone who has a rcligL ion to support them through rough and joyful times, just look their own rclig : ious holy days off? (Along with the days the government says we can have off.) , What kind of school year would be left for those students? Would the year be lengthened or shortened? Would everyone be satisfied, or would the glitches need more than a couple of years to be ironed out? ■; While some folks may get their knickers into knots over such a thought, think about it more thoroughly thoroughly on an esoteric level. I thought about it tills way: On die days which are holy days for Christians, Christians, children from families who consider consider themselves to be Christian would have those days off from school. On the other hand, those from other religions would also be entitled to have their holy days off. Sometimes, I just can't get my mind around forcing non-Christian students to take time off from learning when they can't take days off for their own religious holy days. It makes no sense to me. 1 Another thing I can't get my mind around is taking two months off in the summer from school. ' ' When I was a student, I found it to be inconvenient. I found it hart) enough to get back into the swing of things after a two-week Christmas break. Frankly, to tell you the truth, 1 1 found it hard on Monday, Jan. 2, to! get back into the swing of things after; 10 days off. ; I must be getting older. j Speaking of vacation, have you; ever noticed that when you're kicking! up your heels, the lime goes quickly?! Even more so than a good day at, work. Every day of my 10 days off, ex-; ccpt for Sunday, Jan. 1, went by like a! bomb sailing through the air toward earth. However, Sunday, was a more reflective reflective day as I did s'orrlc of the things I needed to do before the work week commenced. Things like dishes, tiding up the apartment and gearing up for Monday. The one thing I must say I accomplished accomplished during the week, besides getting getting two new tires on the putt-putt (and that is a story for when you and I have more time), was baking an apple pic. While many of those who read this column on a weekly basis know that my strawberry jam making sessions have been far and few between, (only once in July 1991) I have been working working on my 'sweets' repertoire since then. Last summer I added raspberry jam without liquid pectin and this past fall apple honey butter. On Sunday, I thought it was about time for an apple pic. Some folks might think that anyone anyone can make an apple pic. However, it's not that easy when starting without without using wheat in a pastry. Instead of wheat flour of any kind, tapioca, white rice flours plus cornstarch cornstarch arc die basis of a pat-in oil crust. Next comes slicing the apples and spicing litem with nutmeg and cinnamon. Doesn't your mouth just water thinking about the flavors ? Instead of the usual crust on top like my mother would have done and perhaps you or your mother would have placed on top, I put a spicy-- sweet strcuscl topping. ! After I put the pie into the oven 1 must have checked it at least a dozen times by opening up the oven door or looking through the window on the door of the oven. ! Î After brewing a cup a mocha java coffee I sat down to enjoy the spicÿ apple pic smells that wafted through the apartment. i.j However, once relaxed I forgot about the pic. When I did remember it, a small portion of one apple slice was, how shall I say it, 'blackened.' J Fortunately, the rest of the pic was in tip-top shape and was a pleasure to serve at dinner. :j! The wine, the lamb chops, th6 bmsscls sprouts, carrots and potatoes were almost as delicious as my first apple pic! ? *** :l j: Before I forget, and of a more sentions sentions nature than food or vacations, ;|(t woman I know and admire for lier strength, will be forming a self-help group for abused women, i 'flic group will meet on Tuesday evenings beginning on Tuesday, Jan, 10, Women interested in finding oiit more information, please feel free .to call 983-1107. And while I am on the topic of women supporting and helping eaelt other, there is also a support group for women in Clarington who are feeling lonely and isolated due to the lack of immediate family support. This particular group gives wompn the opportunity to learn about services in this area and to share experiences, concerns and frustrations. Call Janice Krofl of Clarington Cope at 623-4123.