I The Canadian Statesman, Bowmanvillc, Wednesday, January 4,1995 5 Report from Parliament Hill ...byAiexShepherd, m.p. This holiday break I have been all over the world. Ottawa, London, England, Sweden, Sweden, Turkey and from there to Washington Washington to visited the U.S. Senate. Arc you shaking your head in disbelief? disbelief? Well, I did this from my home at no cost to the taxpayers! I travelled via the so called "information highway." highway." ■ Over the holidays I took the time to hook my home computer onto the system. The information highway focuses on one of the major objectives of our government which is to get the highway highway out to all high schools - the next generation so-to-speak. Why is this so important? With die information highway knowledge knows no borders. For your children and mine the highway will be essential essential for us to maintain our position as a leading world nation. The information highway is the slide rule of my father's generation and the calculator and computer of our generation. In simple terms it is one tool for knowledge and prosperity. The quicker we master the benefits the belter. At a recent meeting with representatives representatives of Northern Telecom I Councillor Seeks More Input in '95 From Page 4 'youth, together with the Durham Regional Regional Police and other community organizations, and develop a plan similar to the senior citizens committee. committee. , I will stop myself now with one simple request. Please call me with your views. I have read much about open, accessible government. I can ,aiways be reached and am always interested interested in your input on issues ranging ranging from youth projects to the snow removal dilemma. Have a great year land keep in touch by calling me at ,623-4832. j 0 f m O'Toole Regional Councillor Clarington. learned that Canada is the second largest serviced area by population on the information highway. The first is Singapore. But the goal for Canadians is to use the service. How will this system assist us as a society? The book I bought, "Internet for Dummies," - which goes to show you what I think of my ability - points out that much of the internet is still in its infancy. Even now there are files set up for information on astrology, fixing cars, landscaping and financial planning. This is not surprising for a system that is growing by 50% per month. Eventually, we will be shopping for groceries, cars, other consumer items and selecting movies to watch on television. television. But the bigger picture is that globally globally knowledge is power. The information information highway allows everyone access access to the greatest minds in the world. Emerging nations, witnessing economic growth, have discovered this and use the information highway to put its social and economic building building blocks in place. Do we want our kids to be leaders internationally or left behind, scram bling for low paying or even minimum-wage minimum-wage jobs? One of the things I did on the information information highway was broadcast a message to our fellow Canadians in Quebec telling them how ludicrous it is to set up a national government in the province when in fact we have the technology to talk to each other one-on-one. The federal government has set the establishment of the information highway as its priority and I can see why. In the New Year, I will be investigating investigating ways our local community college college can become what is known as a "server" on the information highway and how schools and public can get on it. It is a great opportunity for us and in particular the next generation for knowledge, for business and future prosperity. "How Old is The Statesman Building?" Whenever someone tours our production production facility, one of the most frequently asked questions I receive is, "How old is this building and how long have you been here?" Until last week when I was cleaning out an old filing cabinet, I didn't have an answer answer for that question. But, hidden among the treasures I found some research material material provided by L.A.C.A.C. which may prove interesting for local history buffs. So, to start off 1995, we will look back to 1856 when the building was constructed for the Hon. John Simpson. Simpson was a very enterprising businessman who became became the president of the Port Darlington Harbour Co. in 1841. He founded the Ontario Bank in 1857 and was appointed to the Senate of Canada in 1867. The Bank of Montreal occupied the building upon its completion in 1856, which would explain the 18" thick concrete concrete wall vault in the middle of the building. building. We use it now to store old "make-up flats" of The Statesman. Despite first publishihg in 1854, it was not until about 1870 that The Canadian Statesman rented space in the building. Under the ownership of Rev. John Climie, The Statesman had at least two other locations locations prior to moving here. In 1878, Moses A. James purchased the newspaper, and acquired the building from the Simpson estate in 1902. According to the L.A.C.A.C. information, information, "the building's most striking feature is the arched brick work on the first storey. Technically this is called a "blind arcade" and it is a detail not only unusual, but unique to Bowmanvillc." There is also a photo accompanying the information, with a front entrance that, in hindsight, we should- have preserved for architectural and historical reasons. But, there is another photo with the information information that I consider an even bigger loss. It's the majestic Bank of Montreal building that was torn down in the late 1960s. Although the decision to destroy the landmark was, and is, certainly the right of the bank's management, I have to believe the people responsible for that decision decision would realize today they made a huge mistake that can never be corrected. "Speaking of Tracing Our Roots..." I received a letter last week from a W.J. Oke of Winnipeg, Manitoba seeking information information about his family's roots in this area. According to the family tree he attached, attached, the James and Oke families are related related as far back as the early 1800s. There is also a connection with the Everson fam ily of Courtice. He provided additional information information about the Oke family dating back to 1570. If you think you might be related and would like more information, William James Oke can be reached at 551 Bruce Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3J OW3. "Have You Ever Wondered Why?" The December issue of Reader's Digest carried an interesting story about life's little little mysteries, such as...why is the sky blue? In case you were wondering, when sunlight sunlight passes through the earth's atmosphere, atmosphere, gas molecules and dust particles break it up into its component colours. Colours with the shortest wavelengths are the most easily scattered. Since the shortest shortest light waves appear blue, it's blue we see when we look at the sky. Do you know why dalmatian dogs are known as firehouse mascots? Bred as coach dogs, dalmatians would run alongside alongside horse-drawn carriages to guard against highwaymen. Their inbred love of horses, distinct colouring and ability to run long distances made the dalmatian a natural choice as the animal to accompany the horse-drawn fire engine, warning pedestrians to clear the way. Why do dimes and quarters have notched edges? The Royal Canadian Mint began notching the edges of coins containing gold and silver to discourage people from shaving off small quantities of the precious metals. The metals in pennies pennies and nickels weren't valuable enough to make shaving those coins worthwhile. Why do men's clothes have buttons on the right, while women's are on the left? It's easier for right-handed people to push buttons on the right through holes on the left, so men's buttons are on the right. When first used, buttons were expensive and worn primarily by the well-to-do. Since women in that class were usually dressed by servants, dressmakers would put the buttons on the maid's right, the woman's left, where they've remained. And my favourite...why does a bride always stand on the groom's left? In days of old when men were bold, brides were often captured from neighbouring villages. villages. Fearful for his life, a groom had to keep his sword hand, the right one, free during the ceremony to fend off possible attack by the bride's family or jealous suitors. I'd say that scenario adds a whole new meaning to the question about "if anyone objects to this marriage, please speak now or forever hold your peace." Canadian Your Community Newspaper Since 1854 A Weekly Agenda of Coming Events in Bowmanville and Surrounding Communities James Publishing Supplying all your printing needs. MAYOR'S LEVEE -- Everyone is cordially invited to join Mayor Diane Hamre and members of council at the Mayor's Levee. It is on Sunday, January 8, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 40 Temperance SL, Bowmanville. This is your opportunity to enjoy light refreshments and visit with municipal councillors and staff as well as friends and neighbours attending the event. !. ALZHEIMER AWARENESS MONTH - January is Alzheimer ; Awareness Month in Canada. On Thursday, January 12th, Alzheimer Durham will present the first of the 1995 Wilson Family Lectures on the topic of Power of Attorney. This lecture will take place at the Northview Branch of the Oshawa Public Library (comer of Ritson Rd. N. and Beatrice), beginning at 12:30 p.m. Oshawa lawyer Neil Kisbec will be the guest speaker. He is particularly interests! in the Substitute Decisions Act and has taken courses through the Bar Association and Law Society on this topic. There is no charge for the lecture, however reservations would be advisable. For information, call 576-2567. Alzheimer Durham will hold an Open House at their new offices at the Oshawa Executive Centre, Suite 205, Oshawa Centre on Monday, January 9th. The Open House is from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. PRE-SCHOOL STORY TIME - At the Bowmanvillc Branch of the Clarington Public Library, a pre-school story time will take place for children aged 3 to 5. It is offered in Bowmanville on Thursdays, from January 19 to April 6 and on Fridays, from January 20 to April 7. Both of the Bowmanville story times take place between 10:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. A similar program is offered in the Newcastle Village branch on Wednesday, commencing January 18th. It takes place from 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. There is also a bedtime story time at the Newcastle Library for three to five-year-olds. It's on Thursday evenings, commencing January 26th and concluding March 30th. Hours are from 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Teddies and old family members arc welcome too. - iRgOQol Carpentry & Contracting *©' 23 Years in this Area • Custom Built Homes • Kitchen Renovations • Addition's • Decks • Store Renovations, etc. ill (905) 623-1101 a Hooper's Jewellers ... Antique Pocket Watches and Modern Watch Repairing We use only fresh Maxell watch and electronic equipment batteries. All watches purchased include a FREE lifetime battery replacement. Hooper's Jewellers 39 King St. W. Bowmanvillc Telephone 623-5747 I.D.A. Drug Mart 5 King West Bowmanville Available nl Participating Pharmacies ml llettllh Food Stores For More Information Call: 1-800-361-4720 |-- j Control#! hx-d InUM imj id k,, component* 0 | w ,ighl kn T#nn*n III ü.Utry |uppl*m*nl ctpiuUi •« Hit ot ov«iM 0up|4wn*nl*| (M p|*n and cm prwkh •***nb#l numint end min*i*l« vd.kh In Uckm a » lttt t , AlMl | iv.i , PORT DARLINGTON NEWS - The Executive of the Port Darlington Community Association is seeking volunteers. The executive includes members from each of the areas which comprise the lakeshore community. (That includes Cedarcrest Beach, The Cove, West Beach and East Beach). Where possible, an interested resident from Bowmanville is also required. The executive meets each month for two to three hours and individuals also take on tasks between meetings. If you can help, please call 623-0655. The annual meeting of the Port Darlington Community Association will be held on Wednesday, February 1st, at the Port Darlington Marina Hotel. MEET THE PC CANDIDATES - The Darlington/Courtice Progressive Conservative Association is inviting the public to meet the candidates seeking the nomination as the Progressive Conservative candidate for Durham East. The candidates will be at the Acres Restaurant on Monday, January 9th, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Each candidate will speak for 10 minutes, after which there will be a question-and-answer session. CHRISTOPHER LEADERSHIP COURSES - Registrations are being accepted for the next series of Christopher Leadership courses which start January 25th at St. Joseph's Church in Bowmanville. This is a non-profit group which promotes effective speaking and self-confidence skills in a friendly, classroom setting. To register, please call 905-436-0338. LOCAL AUTHOR ADDRESSES GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY -- The Whitby-Oshawa (Durham Region) branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society will welcome Sher Leetooze, of Bowmanville, to their next meeting. It takes place at 7:30 p.m. in the Henry St. High School Cafeteria, 614 Henry St., Whitby, on January 10th. Sher Leetooze will discuss her recent book entitled "The First 200 Years - A Brief History of Darlington Township." All meetings are open to members and the general public. LUPUS ASSOCIATION MEETS -- The Durham Region Branch of the Ontario Lupus Association will hold its next monthly meeting on Thursday, January 5th, in Oshawa. The meeting is at Cana Hall, Faith Place, 44 William St. W., Oshawa, commencing at 7:30 p.m. COMMUNITY MEETING ON HEALTH CARE CHANGES - The Durham Region District Health Council's long term care committee invites the public to a general meeting on Friday, January 20th. It takes place at the Strathaven Lifecare Centre auditorium in Bowmanvillc. The meeting takes place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Under discussion is the multi-service agency concept. These agencies will provide "one-stop" access to health care consumers for a range of services in the community and in the home. This is your opportunity to make known your views and suggestions concerning the means of delivering services which will best meet the needs of seniors and pensons with disabilities in our area. Caregivers, consumers, volunteers and anyone interested in or affected by long-term health care reform, is welcome, There will also be a community meeting at Fairvicw Lodge in Whitby on January 23rd from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and a meeting at the Oshawa Arts Resource Centre on Friday, January 20, between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Quality Body Work Quality Painting FREE ESTIMATES ON BOTH INSURANCE AND NON-INSURANCE WORK Open 5 Days a Week Monday through Friday J COWAN PONTIAC- BUjCKjjtfl BOWMANVILLE -- ONT. " 166 King Street East Telephone 623-3396 WALKING PROGRAM RESUMES -- The walking program for Clarington's older adults resumes today. (That's Wednesday, January 4th.) If you enjoy this form of exercise, meet in the grocery supermarket area of the Bowmanville Mall Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9 a.m. and also at 1 p.m. This program is offered by the Clarington Older Adults Centre. BOWMANVILLE SENIORS MEET - The Bowmanville Senior Citizens will resume their meetings for the new year on Tuesday, January 10th. There will be a potluck supper at the Lions Centre, 26 Beech Ave., in Bowmanville. The supper begins at 5:30 p.m. New members are needed. INDUSTRIAL PAINTINGS -- Work by Paul Kovanen entitled "Industrial Paintings" will be on display at the Visual Arts Centre's Mill Gallery in January. A skillful colorist with a romantic sensibility for industrial scenes, Kovanen's oil paintings depict area industrial buildings and their locations. St. Marys Cement and Lasco Steel are among the subjects of his work. This exhibition opens on Sunday, January 22, with a reception from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The show runs until February 12. ART CLASSES AVAILABLE - Numerous classes and workshops will be commencing at the Visual Arts Centre in the new. year. There are courses for adults in photography, darkroom techniques, oil or acrylic painting, pottery, life drawing, basic art, and watercolor painting. Workshops of one or two days are offered in: casein tempera painting, wood-carving with power tools, copper enamelling, papermaking, weaving and flowers in watercolor. For the younger artist, there are: winter crafts, pre-school art, pottery for kids, junior arts medley and a course in learning to draw. Further details are available in the Visual Arts Centre's January newsletter or by calling 623-5831. SOIL AND CROP IMPROVEMENT MEETING - The annual meeting of Durham East Soil and Crop Improvement Association is Friday, January 6, in the Solina Community Hall. The program gets under way at 10 a.m. and includes James McKinlay, winner of both the 1993 Ontario Forage Masters Competition and the American Forage and Grassland Council's Outstanding Grassland Farmer Award. Also on the agenda is a report on projects featuring Greg Stewart and a presentation by Joan McKinlay, soil and crop advisor, on the topic of canola production. POSITIVE DISCIPLINE FOR TEENS - A study group taking place at the Bowmanville Senior Public School later this month will focus on resolving conflicts with teenagers. Methods which will result in more harmonious parent/child relationships will be discussed, including topics such as the difference between short-sighted and long-range parenting. The aim of the program is to help teenagers obtain the legacy of courage, confidence and skills to become happy, successful adults. This eight-session study group is being offered at the Bowmanville Senior Public School starting Wednesday, January 25th. Hours are from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. A fee for the course and the text book will be charged. For information and registration, please call the Kinark Family Education Resource Centre at 905-433-0386, Ext. 26. Pre-registration is required. Save an extra 40% in taxes on your RRSP Contribution this year WORKING VENTURES CANADIAN FUND INC. For more information and a prospectus call Bob Stewart 576-1726 MIDLAND WALWYN ©