JOE DICKSON - WARD 2 • OCTOBER 2005 • SUNNY SKIES AHEAD
Future Ajax
Firefighter?
Hi mom and dad! Look
how big my steering
wheel is in my 50 foot
firetruck! This young
man’s photo was taken
at the Annual Ajax
Fire Services Safety
Day, where over 1,000
parents and children
attended the Monarch
Avenue Station
This little girl
received a big hug from “Sparky”
Half Century Ajax Hospital
Angels of Mercy Honoured
This past years Ajax Family Festival and Trade Show
honoured all past members of our Ajax Hospital, in
conjunction with our hospitals 50th Anniversary.
Back Row left to right are trade show co-chairs: John Murray,
Patricia Mann and Joe Dickson. Front row left to right: Ella
Boulanger, Betty Fullerton, Verna McPherson, Mary Lumb
and Donna Gardner, our 5 nurses who were there when our
hospital opened 50 years ago.
The ladies in addition to being “piped in” by Ajax’s Glen
Healy (formerly of the Toronto Maple Leafs) also cut the
ribbon to officially open the event. Sponsoring the weekend
for the ladies was Ajax Legion Branch 322, Pineridge
Insurance and Joe Dickson Printing
Ajax Muslim Receives Honour
A resident of Ajax since the late 80’s, Mobeen Khaja was
honoured with a rare Citation for his efforts in multi-culturalism
by the Canadian Multicultural Forum.
The provincial and federal event which was hosted by the
City of Pickering, was held this summer with Mobeens wife
Anees, also present. The keynote address of the evening
was given by Dr. Yousseff Mroueh, who acknowledged some
dozen organizations and major projects Mobeen has been
involved in.
Several dignitaries including MP Derek Lee, past MPP Janet
Ecker, Pickering Mayor Dave Ryan and Councillor Doug
Dickerson, Ajax Councillor Joe Dickson and Chiefs and Deputy
Chiefs of Police for Peel and Durham were in attendance to
acknowledge Mr. Khaja’s efforts. He is one of the reasons
multiculturalism continues to grow in harmony here.
Whitby’s 1870 Queens Plate In Ajax
Celebrating Whitby’s 150th birthday, the Whitby
Sesquicentennial re-enacted a piece of the Towns history in
Ajax. Picov Downs was the scene reminiscent of the 11th
running of the Queens from the year 1870 which drew in
excess of 10,000 people to Whitby. A former Ajax boy and
now Whitby Mayor, Marcel Brunelle has seen his community
attain growth that outranks all its’ neighbours in Durham,
recently. A few of a large contingent of 1800’s dress VIPs from
left to right are Councillors
Gerry Emm and Joe
Drumm (also a long time
Dowty Ajax employee)
Betty Boyd and Mayor
Marcel Brunelle. That’s a
very casual past Mayor Jim
Gartshore in front. Marcel’s
dad, Dominique was a
popular Ajax Councillor in
the 1950’s.
Ajax Hospital Expansion Overdue!
Ajax Durham North Plaza
Signing New Business
The owners of the Durham Annex Shopping Plaza at Ringer
Road and Harwood Avenue N (just east of Tawn Cr.) are on
schedule. The RioCan Group, owners of the Durham site have
9 businesses signed for occupancy over the next few months.
They include the following tenants: Value Village, Imperial
Buffet, True Star Fitness,South Beach Tan, convenience Store,
Dentist, Chiropractor, Telus and Pizza & Pasta To Go.
Although extra dollars has been pumped into Health Care
provincially and federally, it is still not enough! This proposed
expansion calls for 81,000 sq. ft ,more, and it can’t come
soon enough!
New Ward 2
Pharmacy
Brings Back
A Big Smile!
Carolyn White and Nina
Orzel
opened
Heritage
Market Pharmacy, located at
145 Kingston Road East,
(across from Costco in the
McDonalds/Applebee's
plaza) in Ward 2. Carolyn is the full-time pharmacist and
Nina is Carolyn's long time assistant. Together they
own/operate Heritage Market Pharmacy. Along with their
experience and dedication, patients have a pharmacy team
they can trust and talk to while being provided with expert
care. Carolyn is a respected member of the health care
community.
At Heritage Market Pharmacy hugs are free. Having a
pharmacist who knows your family, brings back memories of
days gone by reconnecting you to Ajax's small town sense of
community.
Carolyn has been in active practice for 16 years, the last ten
years in Ajax.
Nina has worked with Carolyn for those ten years and they
are back in their familiar roles ensuring Heritage Market
Pharmacy becomes your choice when filling your
prescription needs.
Happy 50th
Legion’s
Library
Support
Continues
Ajax Library Public
Service Co-ordinator
Sarah Dodge (left)
accepts a cheque
for another $10,000
from Ajax Legion Branch 322 Past President Marlene Wilson
as part of the Legions $100,000.00 pledge for the new library.
The Legion has paid $40,000.00 and continues to meet their
commitment even though Bingo revenues have diminished
significantly in Ajax.
Sarah Dodge is the daughter of Dr. Doug Dodge, a past chair
of the library board for numerous years. Legion Past
President Marlene Wilson has also appeared before Ajax
Council on different occasions to let the public know of the
many unheralded non-profit and charitable contributions from
the Legions 1400 members. Also in the photo is Ajax
Councillor and Library Board member Joe Dickson who
publicly congratulated Ajax’s Librarian Geoff Nie on just being
selected “Ontario’s Librarian of the Year”.
Ajax Family Festival Trade
Show Donations Over $6,000
This past fall profits from the Ajax Family Festival and Trade
Show were donated to: Ajax Salvation Army Food Bank;
Hospice Durham (Homecare); St. Bernadette’s - St. Vincent
de Paul food Bank; HERizon (Women’s shelter); United Way
of Ajax-Pickering-Uxbridge and Rouge Valley Health-Ajax
Hospital Site only.
The executive volunteers were: Trish Mann, John Murray,
Joe Dickson, Mike Danks Jr., Wendy Gudzus, Randy Low
and Les Pearce. Special thanks goes out to the staff at the
Ajax Community Centre for their help.
Happy 95th Irene!
Lifetime residents of (Pickering Village) - Ajax; Ray and
Monica Hickey celebrated their 50th anniversary this past
fall. Hundreds of friends attended mass at St. Francis de
Sales Catholic Church and later attended the couples family
festivities.
Seen with mom and dad (seated) Jim, Beth, Tina, Theresa
and John, while son Ray Jr., an accomplished musician was
on tour.
Our community thanks Monica and Ray for their tireless
volunteer efforts on so many fronts.
Irene Hackney, seen here with her daughter Laura
celebrated a special birthday recently. She is 95 years
young. The Queen Street residents are Ajax originals. You
can see her son Charlie any Sunday morning at
St. Bernadette’s Church at 8:30 Mass.
Beavers Decimate Woodlot Ajax Children's Lives at Stake!
Dear Joe
This is a follow up
letter regarding
the beavers that
were devastating
the green belt on
the south side of
Hwy 2 between
Westney Road &
Ritchie Road.
It was a hard fight
to finally rid the
green belt of
these destructive
little creatures. It
was a difficult
struggle with you
folks at the city as
you can read on.
Six weeks after I sent my letter nothing had been done. The
beavers were destroying every tree in sight. These animals do
not chew down trees for food, they kill and topple the trees
only for the small branches to be used in their dams. Almost
no trees were left unchewed. By December 9, 2004 I had
enough and started making phone calls.
I was told by the city that the trees will be replaced. Are you
replacing full grown trees or little seedlings? Somehow I think
the seedlings are more in line with your budget. The trees the
beavers chewed down number over a hundred. These include
all shapes and sizes and range in growing ages of over 30-40
years. Majestic willow trees that once stood side by side were
taken down by these animals in under 2 weeks. These willow
trees were over 1’6” in diameter and I’m guessing took over 30
years to grow. Are you going to replace these trees as they
were? I don’t think so.
You’ll have to excuse my negativity, but if you people had
moved when we informed you of this problem the destruction
would not have been so vast. Why must you always mess
around so much until the damage is too costly to recover?
Please ensure that the full council is made aware of this
problem and publish it accordingly. I eagerly await the city’s
response to this matter and as to when the dead trees will be
removed and replaced.
Yours truly,
Sharon McSwain
I couldn’t have documented this better myself,
Sharon. How could anyone give any sensible answer
if a child fell in and drowned to death. What shallow
values some conservation people have! I have
requested new standards and thank Derek Hannan
and Clerk Martin DeRond and his staff that worked
long and hard at this.
- Joe
I had a phone conversation with a Mr. Martin DeRond who told
me that he would take care of this as soon as the fish were
finished spawning up-stream. I argued that if this was not
taken care of now, winter would set in and someone might fall
through the ice, and get trapped under the water. You see the
dam that the beaver’s had built had made the stream increase
in depth from about 1-2 feet to about 6-8 feet. He was still set
on waiting to see if the beaver’s would move on in the spring.
Your supposed environmental efforts have now allowed
decimation to a beautiful woodlot.
How is it that someone could not take down the beaver’s dam
before spawning was complete, but we could keep the water
level 6-8 feet deep so that someone could easily drown in it.
Hello!!
New Zone Commander
Some of your city staff really have their priorities screwed-up
in a bad way.
It was not until I was able to get in touch with you, Mr. Dickson,
that rational ideas prevailed and some head way was made. It
took a good 4-6 weeks for the trappers to come in and get rid
of all the beavers, six in total I believe. Now that the snow is
finally starting to melt away, you can see the area, to say it is
shocking is a small statement. The distance in question is no
more than about 300 meters long from Westney to Ritchie,
and the sight is overwhelming. It looks like a deserted logging
camp, with trees left to rot.
For all the folks that bought their houses because of the
privacy the trees of the green belt had given them, they are in
for a big let down come springtime. These animals not only
caused the loss of monetary value on their homes, but also in
the loss of the greenery.
Congratulating Immediate Past President Cyril Best of Branch
322 Ajax on his installation as our new Zone F1 Zone
Commander are District Commander Ted Whan and Deputy
District Commander Gord Convery
Mayor’s Levee Kicked Off Ajax 50th Anniversary
Bill Lumsden and Larry
Powers with a young staffer
Val and Allan Marshall
with son Stephen
Life long resident, Hazel
Claringbold & Gerry O’Riley
reminisce
Councillor Joe Dickson and Cliff
Mills son of the late John Mills,
the first reeve in the Town of Ajax
Bryan and Rita Hilker,
with Reid Sevigny
Joe Dickson with Louise Johnson,
her grandson Shane Lambert
and girlfriend Tammy.
Council treated to multicultural entertainment
Faithway Celebrated
30th Anniversary
Construction on Taunton, Salem, and Audley Roads did not
inconvenience people enough to be part of a packed
congregation for Faithway Baptist Churches 30th
Anniversary recently. The continually expanding church has
recently acquired 3 adjacent acres of land for future
expansion. Pastor Greg Baker, and
guest speaker Kim Pugh spoke at
the special event at the corner of
Salem Road and Taunton. Kim
received notoriety with her photo in
the Vietnam war, now resides in
Ward 2, Ajax with her husband
Toan and 2 sons Stephen and
Thomas. Kim has also just brought
her aging parents here to live and
they were also guests of Pastor
Baker and the Faithway Baptist
Kim Pugh
Church congregation at the
celebration. MP Dan McTeague made presentations to the
Church on behalf of the Canadian
government and Councilor Joe
Dickson on behalf of all Ajax
Council. Kim was also recently
presented her honourary doctorate
from York University.
Greenvilla Has North Ajax Seniors
Apartment In For Approval
The Town of Ajax is in receipt of a site plan application,
submitted by Greenvilla Homes, to permit the development of
a 4-storey, 4,379 sq.m seniors residence on the west side of
Old Harwood Avenue., just north of Chapman Drive (the
northeast corner of the former the Dr. Henderson site). The
site took extra time for zoning approval due to numerous
resident complaints on Sheldon Avenue and Old Harwood.
The 76-unit building is currently under review by Town of Ajax
Planning Department The proposed building still requires
some revisions/ upgrades to the elevation facing Old Harwood
Avenue. In addition there is a request to reduce the required
setback adjacent to Old Harwood Avenue
Town staff anticipate that the review of this application should
be complete by mid-November to early December. Should
you have any questions or concerns, please contact Ron
Warne, Senior Development Planner at (905) 619-2529 x205
or Joe Dickson direct.
HOW TO REACH J O E D I C K S O N COUNCILLOR WARD 2
Office - 220 Harwood Avenue South, Ajax
Tel.
905-683-7940
Cell
905-409-6873
Car
905-706-5235
Town 905-619-2529 Ext. 323
Residence Res.
Chandos Lake
Florida
32 McClarnan Road, Ajax
905-686-0295
1-705-656-1920
1-727-796-3144
E-mail:
joe@dicksonprinting.on.ca
joe.dickson@townofajax.com
www.dicksonprinting.on.ca
2005-2006 Ajax Legion
Executive Elected
PRESIDENT
Mike O’Hara
1st VICE
Jim Moore
2nd VICE
Agnes Heasley
3rd VICE
Jim Kelly
TREASURER
Paul Legros
PAST PRESIDENT
Marlene Wilson
EXECUTIVE
Chic Presley
Cyril Best (Zone President)
Dorothy Buchanan
Rye Malmquist
Dorothy Moore
Exy Arnold
Tom Blanchard
Jim Weisflock
Janet Kaminsky
Ken Brown
Sheila Boyer
Jim Moore
Day Pye
Butch Andrews
Bruce Sharpe
Mike Fitzpatrick
Notre Dame Graduation
Class of 2005 Largest Ever
Some 240 successful students composed the largest
graduating class ever of Notre Dame Catholic Secondary
School graduated this year. 72 of the students were also
Ontario scholars. Father Roy Roberts and Ms. A. Heemskerk,
provided the readings and Father Roy gave the Homily in an
evening of Catholic and Educational celebration.
The address of the evening was given by principal, Mr. M.
Bak and diploma presentations were awarded by viceprincipals Ms. S. Laforet, Mr. P. Perron and Mrs. L. Pulla.
Other highlights of the evening were valedictorian,
Johnathon Langdon and the awesome vocal rendition of
“Think of Me” by Favin Alemao and Caroline Villaneueva.
Some 52 subject awards, community awards and bursaries
were given including 2 by the Town of Ajax. The Patrick F.
Sheehan award honours a family man who devoted his life to
physical education, youth and community work, in addition to
untold years on Ajax Council as Councillor, Deputy-Reeve
and Reeve. Mr. Sheehan also had a special place in his
heart for Ajax history and his award was presented by
Councillor Joe Dickson. The Lieutenant Governors award
was presented by Mayor Steve Parish.
Students graduated with the words “Commitment to
Excellence with Clarity, Wisdom and Harmony” forever
imbedded in their memory.
It was a blast, Thom!
One of the hardest working
volunteers on Ajax Home Week is
Thom Evered, Ajax’s Fire Safety
Captain who volunteered some
150 hours to make this years
fireworks at $11,000, the largest
ever. Thom (left) is seen here after
doing the Lifetime Durham TV
Show with Joe Dickson, band-aid and all.
Dear Joe
Just though you’d want to know that some
traffic counters have been installed on
Woodcock. It happens to be the March
break so the results will not accurately
reflect the number of cars that travel on
the road because of traffic from the school.
Can you investigate why this is being done now, they are
obviously doing this to demonstrate that the volume and
speed of traffic is well within established limits, which is
completely unrealistic. It needs to be done when school is in,
during the morning and afternoon rush to get an accurate
picture of what is really going on.
Thanks
Barb
Valid points Barb - I’ll advise the engineering
department. I disagree with staffs direction on this
one. Many thanks - Joe
Dear Joe
I had just been sent an e-mail telling us of the upcoming Ajax
celebrations. I am Cheryl Hart. I found it neat to go onto the
website and see the familiar names from when we were kids
in Ajax. I really enjoyed reading the history of the town. Roots
are so important. We lived on Queen Street. My parents are
Mert and Bruce Hart. The Wiles lived a few doors up from us.
We now live in Brandon, Manitoba. How often we walked by
or stopped into Dickson Printing. Just thought I would drop
you a note. Good luck with your upcoming plans, we do hope
to come to Ajax for this.
Cheryl Young - Brandon
Dear Joe
Thank you once again for printing the tickets for the Martyr’s
Shrine Luncheon we had on Sunday, March 13 at
St. Bernadette’s. It was such a wonderful day. We were able
to give the Shrine $6,170. St Bernadette’s true wealth comes
from its people’s generous spirit, working together to do
God’s work.
Thanks Joe and God bless
Betty Bujold
It wouldn’t happen without you, Betty! - Joe
Dear Joe
Thank you for your quick reply to my email. Our street was
eventually plowed on December 24 but it might have not
been for the amount that was removed since it had all froze.
I just received an email from Stephen Brake assuring us that
our street would be resalted.
Again we thank you for your efforts on our behalf.
Happy New Year to you and your family.
Brian and Jennifer Volkmann
Thanks to Steve Brake and staff for the quick
response - Joe
Closest to the Pin at Seaton
(on the second shot)
Won by Ed Boddy
Trophy & Gift Courtesy of Jim Witty
presented by Jim Witty,
Mens Closest to the Pin
at Seaton
Trophy & Gift presented
by Monica Hickey,
Ladies Closest to the Pin
Presented by Pickering
Mayor Dave Ryan,
Seaton Closest to the Pin
Won by Blake Boddy
Office Chair courtesy of
Dickson Printing,
Mens Longest Drive
Winner of an Executive Leather
Chair was by Rick Massingham,
presented by Shaun Collier
& Scott Crawford
Closest to the Pin
Won by Whitby Councillor
Shirley Scott
Closest to the Pin on Deer Creek Emerald
Course Trophy & Gift Courtesy of the News
Advertiser & Durham Business Times,
presented by Abe Fletcher & Andrea McFater,
Won by Keith Ryan
Auctioning off an autographed
Blue Jays baseball bat,
is Pickering Councillor
Rick Johnson, a long time
volunteer for charity.
Won by Lucy Richards
Trophy & Gift presented by Gerry
Phillips MPP – Chair of the
Management Board of Cabinet,
Closest to the Pin on Ruby 9
Most Honest Golf Team at Seaton
Was Donna Dickson, Myrna Picatto &
Shirley Scott receiving their award
from Doug Dickenson & Kevin Ashe.
Jim Witty, Bob Turcotte, Kent
McDonnell & Terry Calder
presented by Mayor Marcel Brunelle and Whitby
Councillors Shirley Scott & Mark McKinnon,
Winning Team (DEER CREEK)
Won by Paul Holiday
OVER 300 GOLF FOR CHARITY AT DICKSON 12TH ANNUAL
Won by Blake Boddy
Most Honest Golf Team at Deer Creek
Trophy & Gift presented by
Whitby Mayor Marcel Brunelle,
Winning Team (SEATON)
presented by Ontario Provincial Chair of the
Board of Management Gerry Philips,
George Smitherman – Ontario
Minister of Health, Dave Ryan –
Mayor of Pickering, Joanne
Dickerson, Craig McCaullagh
Most Honest Golf Team at Seaton
Team Captian Rob Ward shown,
and Mark Tan, Terry R., Jeff R.
Trophy presented by Pickering Councillors
Doug Dickerson and Kevin Ashe,
Guest MC Ken Shaw with golfers
Terry Calder and Kent MacDonnell
and popular Louise Farr of our UOIT
(Durham University)
SEE YOU NEXT YEAR.
Thursday August 11, 2006
at
The entire course is made
available for 400 golfers in 2006
Thank You To Our Generous Corporate Sponsors
Were Acorn Construction Design seen here
receiving their awards from Mayor Brunelle
and Whitby Councillors.
Runners Up (by Retrogression) at
Seaton Bolf course
Julie Rennie, Michele Barrett,
Leslie Trainer, Catherine Janes
presented by Kevin Ahe & Dave Ryan,
Bruce Pugh, Keith Pugh,
Luke McEachnie, Rev. Jack Hannah
Mens Longest Drive - Emerald Course
Won by Keith Ryan
Free Office Chair courtesy of Dickson Printing,
presented by Oshawa Mayor John Gray
& councillor John Neal
Always there to help is
Pickering Councillor Rick
Johnson presenting the
Golfers Green Closest to
the pin to James White
for assisting our Salvation Army Food Bank and 5 Ajax, Pickering and Whitby St. Vincent de Paul Food Kitchens,
Childhood Cancer Foundation “Candlelites”, The Community Foundation of Durham (to donate to our local food banks
in perpetuity), The Womens Shelters, Childrens Wish Foundation & Needy Families with Children, Eva’s Homeless
Children, Village Children’s Food Program, Retired Priests Fund, Companions of the Cross, and Share Life.
New Salem Road Shell Has
Some Residents Improvements
In an effort to avoid additional legal and staff costs to the
Ajax tax payers (and risk losing all upgrades to the site plan
that Planning staff had fought for) it was recommended to
Council (and later endorsed by Council) that staff negotiate
a settlement with Shell. The compromised site plan was
presented to the Ontario Municipal Board and received
approval for the Salem Road and Chambers site.
Some of the aspects of the approved plan which were
upgraded and improved from the original proposal from Shell
include:
*
*
*
*
*
*
removal of the carwash facility
removal of the drive-thru facility
reduced lighting into residential area
reduced height of both the canopy and the store
upgraded store elevations
upgraded corner landscape treatment at Chambers
and Salem
* upgraded peripheral landscape treatment
* upgraded fencing adjacent to pedestrian walkway
(to match up with stone wall to the north)
* lighting of pedestrian walkway at east edge of Field Cres.
One of the student/pedestrian safety requests that was
refused by the Region and Shell was a centre median on
Chambers the length of the Shell entrance. It would have
forced more traffic in the Salem entrance and cut about 50%
out of the Chambers entrance. The Chambers sidewalk is
part of a safe school route to Cadaraque and Dennis
O’Connor schools and should have had the median as
requested by Dickson and Crawford.
Some acoustical fencing was lost as were some smaller
items eliminated by Shell.
Denis O’Connor Park
Delayed by Developer
The long awaited park construction began on schedule at
the end of this past school year and we were all happy to
finally see things get under way. Ward 2 residents will
remember that we all waited since 2004 for the local
developer to expand the pond behind his plaza so that we
could get going on this much needed improvement. The
pond work did not begin this summer but we decided to get
going on the overdue park.
Unfortunately the developer moved in to do work on his pond
in late August and has prevented our contractor from
continuing his work. This meant the park which would have
been done by now will take the next 2 or 3 weeks to
complete. This is very frustrating to the Town but we will do
their best to get things done and cleaned up this Fall. If you
have questions on the park you can contact Bruce Johnson
our Manager of Design Services at 905-619-2529 extension
208. We will stay right on top of this for the rest of this year.
Dear Joe
Thank you for proposing changing the
budget to help the volunteers of the four
outdoor rinks in town. For a few hundred
dollars this will help cover some of the
volunteers expenses and the children are the winners. We
were surprised a couple of council members including the
Mayor, voted against assisting the volunteers. None of our
volunteers are paid.
On a more expensive note, thanks for having the guts to
support a $2 million dollar saving for Ajax taxpayers at the
corner of Salem and Rossland. Too bad you were on the short
end of a 6-1 vote, and I applaud you. For a $2 million dollar
saving from the developer, I really don’t care if the fire hall is
on the north or south side of the corner. They don’t get it!
Mrs. T.
Thank you - why some continue not to support
worthy volunteer efforts is beyond me. Thank you
for mentioning the $2 million cost of the fire hall
and operations yard location. The reports clearly
indicated both locations work the same. This is but
one more error in the official plan - Joe
Dear Joe
Thank you for attending our opening concert in Ajax and
being our guest speaker. Your presence and commentary
made this a “special” occasion for both the Durham Chamber
Orchestra and the audience.
Thank you also for your interest and support of the Arts.
Olga Siblock
Dear Joe
I just wanted to drop a line to thank you for the wonderful park.
I've been power walking in it every morning and Jim and I have
gone for a couple strolls through the park already. Every time
I've been through there have been adults exercising, kids on
the playground and teenagers playing basketball.
Jim and I just wanted you to know we appreciate your hard
work in making Nottingham park a place for everyone.
Kira Hensley
Scott Crawford and Ajax Council were most
supportive - Joe
Dear Joe
Just wanted to drop you a line and say congratulation for the
progress on the new basketball courts at the McLean
Centre. This will also assist the growing night problems at
Roberta Bondar. I received the flyer and wanted to express
my appreciation for this and the other values that you deliver
with consistency to our community!
All the best, Steve
Thanks to Scott Crawford and the entire council
who to a person supported our project. Thanks to
Jo-Anne Dies for switching the time frame or a
south end court to Spring 2006 - Joe
Post Office/New Council
Chambers a Costly Expenditure
Contaminated soil has easily cost the Town of Ajax 1/2
million dollars. The Ajax Post Office plan was to move north
on Harwood N past the high schools, and Ajax would acquire
the old post office site on Kings Crescent. It would be used
to re-locate the Ajax Council Chambers too. MP Mark
Holland, although not directly involved did assist the Town
with post office answers.
Although “the deal” was in place, the Post Office later pulled
the plug when they discovered methane gas on site. That is
normal in old undeveloped areas, and easily correctable.
The post office decided not to locate to the agreed to site,
perhaps because of potential union concerns. After searching
potential new locations causing a significant delay, the post
office is now building on Harwood N close to Ringer Road.
The Town was unfortunately on the hook for delayed
construction costs and penalties.
Even though purchases of sale move forward and letters of
understanding are agreed to, sometimes that’s not enough.
Staff and council should bypass those members seeking a
quick turnaround in the future. Next time around everyone
should insist on exercising a longer due diligence period
before the agreement is finalized. This would help us save
taxpayers dollars in the future.
Cadaraque Students Raise $7,000
For Cancer With Giant Shaveoff
Healthy Golfers Help!
One of our guests at the Joe Dickson Charity Golf in Ajax
was Ontario Minister of Health George Smitherman, this fall.
Seen with George are Joe Dickson, Pickering Mayor Dave
Ryan, Joanne Dickerson and Craig McCullagh
Ajax’s
Special
Golden
Girls
These 3 young
north Ajax ladies
got together for their birthday celebration and to Celebrate
Ajax’s 50th Anniversary. The 3 ladies combined have lived in
Ajax for over 150 years. Left to right are Marie Lawrence who
just turned 90 in August, June Hilts who was 80 this summer
and Cecile Gagne who has just turned 89 this September.
Don Holloway
and his microphone at the
Ashley Manor
Annual
Christmas
Bazaar. Our
Ajax seniors
are great!
The Soup Shack
Two fndraising projects by Cadaraque Elementary School
students, teachers and volunteers have raised a giant
$7,000 to fight cancer. Seen in the centre getting his head
shaved is the schools SCC Chair Alex kebelj, always a good
sport. Taking delight in removing Alex’s locks are TV
personalities Dan Carter (left) and Garth Riley (right)
Soup Shack
owner Donna
Laurence and
mother, Lonie
Morris at the
renovation
opening
The camera also caught part of the giant assembly of
Cadaraque students who worked hard on this project. Great
job kids!
The Soup Shack
renovated opening
were joined by friends and Steve Parish, Jo-Anne Dies and
Joe Dickson on old Kingston Road in the Village. Meals to
suit everyone are served here!
Dear Joe
Re: Ritchie Rd Safety Meeting Tuesday
October 19, 2004
I would like to take this opportunity to
sincerely thank you for attending last
nights meeting. It was very informative and productive and I
believe residents in the community feel more confident,
positive and encouraged that the problem at hand will be
resolved. I thank you for listening to everyone's concerns
and issues and addressing them adequately and
appropriately.
I look forward to hearing from Colleen Jordan with respect to
resolving the important issues such as speeding, community
safety zone signs, crosswalk signs, E.A. etc. Hopefully this
will make a difference.
We couldn't have accomplished 50% of what I feel we did
last night if all of you weren't there to support and listen to us
and I thank you once again, Joe.
Sincerely,
Martha Chisnall
Much thanks to you Martha from of all of us. - Joe
Dear Joe
On behalf of Ashley Manor Seniors I like to thank you
so much for your personal support,with our recent fall
bazaar. (It was the most successful bazaar ever). You always
support us in all our various events.
Thank you so much.
Anna Sorensen, President
Anna - Our seniors are great - Joe
Dear Joe,
On behalf of all our employees, I want to thank you for
attending our Open House at the Ajax Operations facility, on
Saturday September 25, 2004. I realize how critical time
commitments can be and appreciate you taking valuable time
from your day to attend our Open House.
We have a very good workforce who displays pride in their
work and workplace. This pride showed through during
our plant tours and open house activities.
Thank you again for your attendance.
Sincerely Mead Westvaco Packaging Systems LP
Dale E. Breckow Director, Canadian Operations
I was pleased to be there with Steve Parish, Pat
Brown and Jo-anne Dies - Joe
Dear Uncle Joe
Just wanted to than you for helping us out with the posters!
The concert was a huge success. It sold out and we raised
over $2300.00 for Toronto Sick Kids Hospital. Couldn’t have
gotten the word out without those posters.
So thanks again!
Love Sarah and Nataliegh
Congratulations to these 2 wonderful teenagers what an effort - Joe
Audley/Rossland Lights Dull
Audley/Rossland signalization- This item is part of the A8
agreement with a building permit trigger of 1,200 homes. The
estimated timing for achieving this trigger is 2006 or 2007. A
land acquisition issue may delay the ability to install the
signals and provide the left turn lanes on Audley Road that
are required by the Region to install the signals. As a result
the timing of the signal is unknown but anticipated in the
2006-2007 time frame.
Magill from Old Harwood to
Coles plus Pembry Delayed by
Buoyant Construction
The tender to install speed humps on Pembry Drive and the
surface treatment to improve skid resistance on Magill Drive
closed on August 19. There were no bids submitted for the
works. Staff had planned to re-tender the project, but were
informed by the contractor that they do not have
time/resources to complete the surface treatment on Magill
Drive prior to September 30. Unfortunately, September 30 is
the last day of the year that the works can be completed
with a guarantee from the Contractor (under OPSD
Specifications). If the contractors carried out the works after
September the work would not be guaranteed. There is
significant risk that the specially engineered surface
treatment and line painting would have to be reapplied in
2006 entirely at Town cost. The Pembry Drive speed humps
could be re-tendered and completed this fall but there will
likely be a cost premium. Due to these circumstances, a staff
decision has been made to defer the Magill Drive and the
Pembry Drive works to 2006.
Salem Road - Rossland to Taunton
to be Complete In January
Soil re-mediation work on Salem Road is complete and the
road contractor has mobilized on site to complete the section
from Rossland Road to Taunton Road. We are expecting the
work to be completed by the end of 2005, or January 2006.
The contaminated soil which delayed the project 6 months
has been replaced.
Sunoco and Boston Pizza
at Hwy 2 and Salem
This Sunoco facility, which includes a gas bar, accessory
convenience store, upgraded street elevations and
enhanced landscape treatment (but no carwash facility) is
currently under construction and likely to open later this fall,
certainly before Christmas. A new giant “Boston Pizza”
family restaurant with an outdoor patio is also well underway.
They hope to be open by Christmas.
NEW Ajax Events Mark 2005
Ajax and Home Week Anniversaries
Celebrating major Ajax 50th Anniversary events during the
35th Anniversary of Ajax Home Week helped make it one
of the best in decades. Here are some of the marked
improvements and new items that were implemented this year
for Ajax Home Week.
New Style Book a Historic Gem
The new full size version of the Ajax Home Week book,
which also acknowledged many of the original Ajax families
is great. The Souvenir book for 2006 will continue the same
theme of Ajax’s historical families, so make sure you submit
your Ajax family photo of 50 years ago. Co-chair of this book
were Mike Fitzpatrick and Ken Brown and some of their
volunteers included, Ted Griffin, Mike O’Hara, Paul Legros
and Ivan Kline, plus many others.
Carribana Kickoff Sold Out
To start the 10 days of Ajax Home Week off in a special way,
the Ajax Diversity committee came up with a great new
multicultural Carribana Nite. It was a sellout at the McLean
Centre. What a way to commence Ajax Home Week. Thanks
to the committee and council rep Scott Crawford with special
thanks to the 3 co-chairs, Alton Atkinson, Faelyne Templer
and Paul Pakyam who really made it happen.
Honoured Vets Larger Than Elephant
The Home Week parade was co-chaired by Lawrence and
Carmen Smith on June 11th. A new parade policy specified
all vehicle entries had to be decorated, which dramatically
improved the quality of the entries. The added entries of an
elephant, zebra, camel and miniature horses (although
expensive) helped make it very worthwhile for viewers. The
highlight of the parade were our honoured (from 60 years
ago) British veterans of the HMS Ajax, Exeter and Achilles
ships, who were on parade with many of our Canadian Vets
from our Legion.
June 19th the fireworks started in unison. The $11,000 cost
of fireworks is sponsored by Ajax businesses and our
service organizations. It is untold hours leading up to the
fabulous 35 minutes of fireworks, thanks to the unselfish
dedication of Thom Evered. He deserves all the credit.
Carnival Lauded by Police Officer
After being turned down by Ajax beauracrats and a 4-3
council vote against, on 2 different occasions, the new
Carnival finally came off with flying colours thanks to the
efforts of Mike O’Hara, the chair. One, thirty year senior
police officer wrote the Town calling this years event the best
amusement event he has ever attended in Durham. Our
thanks to Bissell Pontiac and GM for the use of their
undeveloped land. The earnings from Albion Amusements
made the difference to the 2005 Home Week being a
financial success. Without it the Towns largest annual
volunteer event would have suffered a loss. Thank you Ajax,
and thank co-chairs, Joe Dickson and Gerry O’Riley.
*****
Ajax Legion Vet One of Welcomed
Liberators of Holland this May
Decorated World War 2 Veterans returned to the battlegrounds of Holland to mark the liberation of this country 60
years ago. Norm Lawton of Ajax was the lone member of Ajax
Legion Branch 322 present at the special recognition in
Holland. Norm who lost his brother in the war was one of many
veterans given the appreciative 9 day tour by the country.
Ajax 50th Unqualified Success
The musical displays and mini tattoo at the foot of Harwood
on June 12th was an unprecedented success. The event was
co-chaired by Doug Corrigan and Chic Presley. It honoured
our veteran guests and our Towns 50th Anniversary, which
was chaired by Councillor Pat Brown. The very successful
Town of Ajax Gala Dinner and Dance was chaired by Pat
Clark.
Hot Air Helped Many
Pilot Insurance hot air balloons in concert with St. Pauls
United Church volunteers helped raise funds for food banks
and our women’s HERizon House. The popular new event
was chaired by Robert Hunt on June 18th and 19th.
Untold thousands turned out in Holland to welcome their
Canadian liberators.
New Shoes Popular
The inclusion of a new horse shoe competition into the Ajax
Waterfront festival on June 19th had lots of entries. Event
was chaired by Myrna Picotte and volunteered by Ajax’s
second Rotary club, the Durham Rotary Club.
Ajax Home Week on Display
The Lions Point Celebration of music and entertainment
from 6-10 pm prior to the Ajax fireworks was a first this year.
Home Week secretary and super volunteer Wilma Graham
made the new crowd pleasing event a happening. Don’t miss
it next year. As Wilma’s great effort ended at 10 pm on
Norm Lawton stands amongst row on row of buried heroes
at the Canadian War Cemetery and Groesbeek Memorial
in Holland this May.
15 Ajax Council Years
Honoured
Last year Joe Dickson was
present a 15 year award for
elected time on Ajax Council.
He was also elected to
St. Bernadettes Catholic
School Board for 2 two year
terms. He has been successful
in all 8 election attempts.
Presenting the award were
CAO Brain Skinner and
Councillor Colleen Jordan.
Ajax Is Ontario’s First
Canada Day Celebration
The Ajax Community Centre HMS Ajax Banquet Hall was
the chosen location to commence Ontario’s first Canada Day
Celebrations in 2005.
The 7th annual Canada Day and Muslim Heritage Awards
were hosted here for the seventh consecutive year, June 30th
through July 1st and our country’s birthday was officially
celebrated at midnight.
Special awards were given to Chief Armand LaBarge and
York Regional Police, as well as our own Durham Region
Police Services, Professor Ibrahm Dincer (fuel cell
technology research), Ahmed Hussen (Regent Park
rejuvenation) and Dilzayn Panjivani (exceptional youth
achievements).
Well known Ajax and Pickering scientist Dr. Joseph Mroueh
accepted Professor Dincer’s award in his absence. The
Association of Progressive Muslims of Ontario, president
Mobeen Khaja welcomed
a
capacity
crowd.
Mobeen, his wife Anees
and son Mateen are long
time committed political
and Ajax Community
volunteers. The event
saw the singing of
O’Canada and cake
cutting at midnight.
Master of Ceremonies
was Ajax MP Mark
Holland with Sheila
Juma. Several GTA
politicians were present
in addition to AjaxPickering MPP Wayne
Arthurs
and
Ajax Ajax businessman Bob Oldman
Councillor Joe Dickson. poses with the bell from the HMS
The evenings honoured Ajax in Montavidero. Location is in
political figure was the Uruguay, South America where Bob
was when he visited the famous site,
Consul General of the the resting place of the sunken Graf
U.S.A., Jessica Lecroy.
Spree. Ajax’s history is worldwide.
HMS Ajax Bell Rang!
Dear Mayor Parish
I am writing on behalf of the residents of
Durham condominium corporation 125
(“The Breakers”, located at 45 Cumberland
Lane) to express our appreciation for the
positive action taken by Town council to address the parking
needs in the area of the Harwood Point Gardens.
We believe that the approach adopted will meet the
requirements of all Ajax residents, while also taking into
consideration the traffic and safety concerns of those who
daily walk and drive along Lake Driveway.
We appreciate having had the opportunity to participate in
an open, consultative process during which the dialogue with
Town staff and elected officials contributed significantly, we
believe, to the satisfactory solution achieved. This reasoned
and rationale approach provides positive proof that through
a mutual exchange of ideas a positive outcome for all
is possible.
Thank you again.
Sincerely yours,
K. John Blatchly - President, DCC125
It was a good decision, John - Joe
I just wanted to thank you very much for getting someone to
come and take care of that little flood we had yesterday on
our street. It’s good that they got it fixed, because today
everything else is frozen...I guess no skating for us...Ha Ha..
Have a nice day
Brenda
Dear Joe
Thank you for the “Council New and Ajax Happenings” info;
it’s greatly appreciated.
Take care,
Craig Woods
Mr. Dickson, let me say that it is a joy to see that a politician
still wants to be connected and available for his constituents.
I wish to applaud you for your “Council News and Ajax
Happenings” newsletter. The many many ways in which I can
contact you by phone and or email are certainly very
impressive. I am a little concerned that I do not know what a
Chandos is and if I am away from Florida or the Durham
Region then I would need to spend my little savings to call. I
think that a person like yourself who wants us to call should
provide us with an 800 or 866 type number.
Remember that while being a Public Servant you need to
ensure that we can contact you at any time, from anywhere,
about any subject. What do you think about my idea.
Jorge
Thank you for the kind words. If you cannot reach
me at any of my Ajax numbers, please feel free to
call me collect at either of the 2 out of town numbers
on any urgent Town matter. - Thanks Joe
Nottingham Neighbours
Meet New Friends
Thanks to Rod and Sheryl Joyce, we learned the residents
of Ballantyne Drive enjoyed a community BBQ on July 16th,
despite a little rain. Everyone, from young to old, had fun and
got to know each other a little better. Neighbours pitched in
and helped with food and activities for kids (jumping castle,
bike rodeo, water balloons). Perhaps the most memorable
part of the day was the impromptu street water fight that
developed after the water balloons were handed out! The
day ended with new friends gathering around a portable fire
pit to talk about the day, and plan for next year. Special
thanks to Dean and Meera Mather for spearheading the
event. Another popular street BBQ every summer is held on
Ducatel Crescent at the home of Betty Bujold. It’s always a
blast as well.
Ajax Environmental Affairs
Week Volunteers Great
Enviornmental Affairs Chair, Sherry Brown hosted a BBQ for the
hard working executive that make this week possible. Back (left to
right) Megan Yeo - secretary, Sephanie Smith, Sherry Brown 2005 Chair, our environmental guest, Margaret Cecconet - Past
Chair and Joe Dickson - founder. Front, Mark and Janice Brown
Garry Durnan and Al Williams. Missing at the time of photo were
Sarjutt Grewal - treasurer, Deanna Fry, Bunny Lockett, and other
assistants from the Town, Gloria Walker, John Fletcher, Steve
Brake, Don Stinson and Leona Barrington.
Artist Designs Ajax Fountain
Geordie Lishman hosted a unique and enterprising art show
late in August this year at the heritage Lishman residence on
the east side of Westney Road between Magill and Sullivan
in Ajax.
He is seen here with Councillor Joe Dickson and friend
Tiffiny Aasen. Geordie is the son of Bill Lishman, renowned
sculptor, (and also the originator/producer of that wonderful
movie on the flight of Canada Geese southbound) and his
mother Paula is owner of Paula Lishman Ltd. (excelling in
International Sustainable Fur Fashions) which she started
the year Geordie was born, 30 years ago. Some of Geordies
works are shown here.
Brother Aaron and sister Carmen have watched him grow in
stature and are proud as we all are, that Geordie is working
on his latest creation with father Bill, to be the Town of Ajax’s
50th Anniversary piece; a fountain at our civic centre before
the end of this year
Trees Massacred - Take Hilton
Hotel Developer to Court
Ajax’s new Hilton Hotel
Where did our 50 year old
preserved woodlot go?
The Town of Ajax has laid charges
against the Vrancor Development
Corporation, developers of the Ajax
Hilton Garden Inn, under the Town’s
Tree Preservation Bylaw.
Neighbours get
firewood
When the area Councillor Joe Dickson became aware that
about 100 trees have been bulldozed from our MTO
preserved woodlot, at Salem and 401, he complimented two
of his Ward 2 residents, Kim Sadler and Richard Cooke. Kim
Sadler brought us the illegal destruction information first and
both men have continually followed up until charges were
laid. Joe had been dialoguing with planning manager, Brian
Bridgeman daily, and encouraged dialogue by the Town,
MTO, the Conservation Authority to have the strongest
possible charges laid.
Charges have now been filed in the Ontario Court of Justice.
These charges hold a maximum penalty of $50,000 or
$5,000 per tree, whichever is greater. 100 trees could cost
them $1/2 million dollars.
“The Town has taken this matter very seriously,” stated Mayor
Steve Parish. “We have strict guidelines in place to ensure
the preservation of our trees and it’s very disheartening to
see those guidelines ignored.”
The developer/owner is Darko Vranich and his company that
is developing the Hilton site is Vrancor Hospitality
Management Co. In my opinion, “this kind of arrogance for a
developer to ignore the public interest is quite beyond the
pale” said Dickson.
The MTO has not declared any lands on the east side of the
site as surplus, nor have they even considered listing these
lands as surplus. For that reason, these lands are not for
sale and will not be for sale anytime in the near future.
Should the MTO lands ever be deemed to be surplus, the
lands will be listed and will be open for anyone to purchase,
including the Town of Ajax
The agreement that the MTO is proposing is that Vrancor
rehabilitate the lands with new trees. They also have
intentions of fencing off their lands to ensure that this does
not occur in the future.
Should Mr. Vranich not enter into a “rehabilitation of the
lands” agreement, then the MTO is prepared to file an
application to Superior Court and seek an order for the
rehabilitation of the lands.
The MTO want a fast solution to this issue in that they want
the trees planted this season. The Provincial Minister is
informed on this issue and is being kept informed during the
process by MTO staff.
South Ajax
Tiger Roars!
Anna’s Help Keeping
Patterson-Ritchie Safe
The Giant Tiger retail outlet at
Westney and Lake Driveway
was presented with one of
the Ajax Home Week special
parade awards by Mike
Fitzpatrick. Lifelong south
ender Mike, who’s family is
also involved in an out-of-town
Giant Tiger location presented
the 2005 Best Commercial
entry to Ajax owner Marcel
Landriault with original Chair
Joe Dickson present.
Congratulations to the Tiger!
Thanks to Anna Kuzniak, Chair of the Patterson-Ritche Area
Neighbourhood Watch, who forwards messages with safety
tips from Morgen Dobson, Regional Neighbourhood Watch
Coordinator and some warm greetings from our hard
working Block Captains, on an ongoing basis. With their eyes
and ears some 14 items were reported to police to date this
year. Everyone is helping to keep the neighbourhood safe.
Ajax Actively Pursuing
Steam Plant Clean-up
Ajax by-law services initiated action nearly two years ago to
address ongoing and increasing concerns with the overall
appearance and operation of the Ajax Steam Plant and
surrounding lands. Concerns included the unsightly storage
of wood waste and ash on both the plant-owned lands as
well as adjacent lands that the plant has leased from the
Town for many years. This lease expired several years ago,
but has continued on an informal basis.
The Town has now terminated the companies expired lease.
Service to regular steam users will not be impacted as Ajax
actively pursues the clean-up of the operation.
Neighbourhood Watch
Comes to Nottingham
Through the implementation of Crime Prevention Programs,
and dedicated community volunteers work with our Durham
Police to help reduce crime in their communities.
The residents of the Nottingham community have met all
criteria as set out in the Durham Regional Police Service
“Neighbourhood Watch Guidelines” and have received a
commitment from their fellow neighbours of at least 75%
participation. To date, more than 250 members of this vibrant
community have attended crime prevention meetings to
receive instruction and training in Neighbourhood Watch
principles and procedures. They have demonstrated their
understanding that Crime Prevention is not just a job for a
few professionals. Rather, the attitude and involvement of
these Nottingham citizens proves their genuine concern to
work together to make Ajax a better place to live.
The Friends of the Ajax Library wish to thank
Veridian Corporation, Patrick Gibson, Investors Group
and Joe Dickson for their generous sponsorship
of the Mary Lou Fallis Concert Event.
Basketball Problems in
North Ajax Being Resolved
The following notice was forwarded to residents in the area
of Terry Fox School before the end of August. It should help
alleviate problems for residents adjacent to other schools in
north Ajax as well.
TO MY RESIDENTS
I have had the opportunity to speak with the Mayor and each
member of Council over the past two weeks with respect to
the above item. The objective was to help eradicate the
multiple years of late/early/all night basketball games at
Terry Fox School and the subsequent disruption of the
neighbourhood’s evening and sleeping hours.
The Town had approved basketball courts installation at the
Ajax Community Centre in 2005 and at the McLean
Community Centre in 2006. With Councils’ concurrence this
schedule has now been altered. We will now build the
McLean Community Centre basketball courts this year
(2005) and the Ajax Community Centre courts early next
Spring.
I will also submit to Council and staff recommendations for
the Town of Ajax to deal differently with the school boards’
site layout plans under our current Ajax Official Plan review.
Thanks to everyone for your assistance
- Joe
Regardless of what may happen in the future, I believe
this Town of Ajax $50,000 capital expenditure should
end future disruptions of our residents. It should also
help eliminate other area school potential problems.
Thanks to our many eyes and ears like Carol-Anne and
Duncan, past principal Carol Porter and our new
principal Laurel Galt, trustee Marilyn Crawford,
Councillor Scott Crawford and every member of Ajax
Council that made this new expenditure occur. It was a
unanimous vote done by a phone and visitation canvas.
Our Ajax By-Law staff, as well as the Towns private
security “Knights on Guard” and particularly Inspector
Jim Douglass and the Durham Police Services who like
Scott and I visited the site personally on many
occasions are to be thanked for their extra effort.
90th Birthday
Joe Dickson along with the family
was pleased to bring special Town
of Ajax greetings to Marjorie Irene
Owen-Moriah on her 90th birthday.
This lovely lady lives with son
Chris and his wife and family in
North Ajax.
Town of Ajax Staff Honours and Awards
Ajax Clerk Marty DeRond presents Ajax Library 15 year award was presented
Clayton Weller with his 15 year
by Chief Librarian Geoff Nie to Eva Fudge,
award in the By-Law department
with Councillor Shaun Collier looking on.
with Councillor Colleen Jordan
present.
Fire Safety Captain Thom Evered
receives his 10 year award from our
Chief Randy Wilson and Councillor
Jo-Anne Dies.
By-Law supervisor Derek
Hannan is presented his
10 year award from Ajax Clerk
Marty DeRond.
A wonderful
gentleman
Jack Mamo
receives his
Building
Department
award from
Paul Allore
with Councillor
Shaun Collier.
Popular Cathy Jarvis receives her 10 year
pin from the Director of Planning Paul
Allore with Councillor Jo-Anne Dies.
Longtime firefighter Ted Morrison is
presented his 20 year award from
Chief Randy Wilson with Councillor
Joe Dickson.
Captain Paul Ritchie receives
the Federal Fire Service
Exemplary Service Medal
from Mayor Parish.
“Mr. Moneybags” Rob Ford our Town
Treasurer receives a special 20 year
award from Brian Skinner CAO, and
Councillor Joe Dickson.
Grant Taylor
presents
Muarry Clodd
his 15 year
award from
the Operations
(Works) Dept.
Even the
best retire!
Richard Parisotto
(centre) receives
a special tribute
from Brian
Skinner CAO
and
Mayor
Steve Parish.
Annually the Town of Ajax pays tribute to those staff who attain another 5 year plateau of service to Ajax. Prior to this past
Christmas the following dedicated people were honoured by our Town. We have a special town with special employees who
make it happen.
10 Year Awards
Derek Hannan
Thom Evered
Lynda Hardy
Cathy Jarvis
Maria McCarthy
April Burton
Diane Cretney
Hal Duke
Tracy McMurray
Ester Mathews
Michelle Sunders
Jessica Sawyer
Wendy Sweeney
Terri Thurston
Rita Tsobanis
Mandy Walter
Peter Young
Clerks
Fire Services
Library
Planning
Planning
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
15 Year Awards
Joe Dickson
David Forget
Maria Jarvis
Karen Little
Clayton Weller
Donna Percewicz
Mark Bell
John Farrow
Steve Grant
Jeff Kiteley
Charles McGeoghan
Dan Rapson
Eva Fudge
Elea Gratoon
Murray Clodd
Susanne Farley
Linda Kearn
Peter Pouzar
Claudia Savor
Peter Southgate
Retirees
Butch Andrews Bill Campbell Rick Parisotto Bev Pearcey
Council
Administration
Clerks
Clerks
Clerks
Finance
Fire Services
Fire Services
Fire Services
Fire Services
Fire Services
Fire Services
Library
Library
Operations
Operations
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
Recreation
20 Year Awards
Rob Ford
Pat Hayes
Dave Lang
Ted Morrison
Paul Ritchie
Terry Lawes
Finance
Fire Services
Fire Services
Fire Services
Fire Services
Operations
25 Year Awards
Cathy Bartlett
Rick Browning
Steve Gibson
Peter Gilbert
Fire Services
Fire Services
Operations
Recreations
30 Year Awards
Nicole Hannon
Helmut Klett
Fire Services
Operations
Federal Exemplary Service Medal
Pay Hayes Dave Lang Ted Morrison Paul Ritchie
250 New Homes
On Salem Road in Ajax
The Town of Ajax has approved a Zoning By-Law
Amendment application for a subdivision application for the
lands on the east side of Salem Road, south of Taunton
Road and north of the CP Railway line.
The subdivision is to permit 167 single detached dwellings,
75 townhouse dwellings, park space as well as open space
and storm water management areas.
Pumpkinville in Ajax
Dear Joe
Here is a voice from the past!! Through
the courtesy of our friends in Ajax, Bill and
Karen Hunter, I have enjoyed going
through the “Ajax Home Week Souvenir
Handbook” It has been quite an evening of “Oh I remember
them”.
Please say - hello- to your Dad when you next speak to him.
He is only slightly older than I am and I am going strong also.
The Rotary Pancake breakfast brings back many memories.
Out here on Vancouver Island we have several former
Ajacians. Eddie and Gay Norman, The Mossmans, The
Jorgensons and just recently Martin and Lee Shaw who had
the furniture store (Ajax Plaza Furniture) just north of my
Drug store (Kemps Pharmacy).
I still have family in the area so we visit Ajax about once a
year but no fixed plans for this year yet.
Anyway, congratulations on another “Ajax Home Week” and
good luck with the rest of the Fifty Year Celebrations. I am
proud of being part of Ajax history.
Don Kemp
It draws several thousand every year for a fun filled day for
mom and dad and the kids. It’s free at Ajax’s “Greenwood
Conservation Area” with entertainment, horse drawn wagon
rides, pumpkins to be cut and much, much more!
Dear Don - Thank you for your email, I have just
walked in the door from spending 1 1/2 days with my
father in Owen Sound. What great memories there
are when I think of Don and Gwen Kemp and their
family and the ever popular Kemps Pharmacy. I’ll
never forget some of the good works you and your
colleagues in Rotary achieved in helping to build this
great town.
Best personal regards - Joe
PS - I also do recall the very first drug store on the
east side of Harwood, at Kings Crescent which really
dates me.
Dear Joe
Kinsmen Club of Ajax helping out at Pumpkinville with a
giant bar-b-q tent.
Diversity
Helps Ajax
Grow
Alton Atkinson and
wife Mimi and their
children Jared and
Elizabeth are caught
on camera at
Pumpkinville last
year. Alton is Chair
of the Ajax Diversity
Committee which is
very active in Ajax,
to everyone’s benefit.
I am glad my godmother had a grandson named Joe. He is
so good to me. The drive was cleared in a moments notice.
I can’t get over the plowed up snow from the road. I have no
more things on my calendar that I really have to go to, but
today I really had to go out. I wish my eyesight was better but
then it could be worse. I pray for you everyday. You are an
angel.
Thanks
Cousin Mary
Mary, who is in her 90’s could not get out her driveway for her medical appointment - Thanks to the
Ajax staff again! - Joe
Dear Joe
Thank you for supporting our 5th Annual Golf tournament. It
was a wonderful success! We hope you can join us again
next year.
Girls Incorporated of Durham
(formerly known as Ajax Big Sisters)
Ajax Industrial/Commercial
Tax Base Worst In Durham
Harwood Avenue to Taunton
to Have Top Paving in 2006
Based on the current 2004 Provincial Assessment Summary
of Lakeshore Municipalities in Durham Region, show Ajax as
the lowest “non-residential” tax assessment community.
Oshawa has the best record of 17% and Ajax the worst in
the employment provider classification.
Oshawa 17%
Pickering 16%
Clarington 15%
Whitby 13%
Ajax 12%
The Harwood Avenue project from Williamson to Taunton is
underway. There are still issues with approvals from the
Department of Fisheries and Oceans and Toronto
Conservation Authority (DFO/TRC) for the installation of the
culvert across the Northern section of the road, but, we
expect that this approval will be obtained shortly. The
contractor will concentrate on the road works in the interim.
We plan to have the road completed in 2005 with top course
asphalt in 2006. The region will complete the intersection of
Harwood and Taunton and signalization in 2006 with the
reconstruction of Taunton Road.
Ajax Loses Kings Crescent
Original Ajacian Vic Ames
One of Ajax’s original residents, and it’s oldest “life member”
of the Ajax Kinsmen Club passed away mid August. Vic
Ames was a successful business and professional man.
Both Vic and his wife Doris were elected presidents twice
each, of the Kinsmen and Kinette Clubs. Vic was recently
given a special award by the club for over 50 years
membership in the active Ajax service club. A large
contingent of Kinsmen and K-40 payed their respects at Vic’s
funeral. Chris Snell spoke for so many when he said “Vic was
a good friend, and a great Kinsmen.”
Whitby Councillor To Ajax’s
Winners Circle
Whitby Councillor Shirley
Scott (centre) chaired the
sell-out Queens Plate
weekend event which
culminated at Picov
Downs. Shirley is seen
here with a couple of
friends, past Whitby-Ajax
MP, and currently WhitbyWest Oshawa MP, Judi
Longfield and Donna Dickson. Shirley was thrilled with the
Whitby Sesquicentennial (150th anniversary) event who’s
gala ball sold out early.
New Ducatel Homes
Coming This Fall
There will be 224 units, including 16 semi detached units on
Ducatel Crescent. The builder's name is Trademark
Communities (Haber Homes), and they should be in a
position to draw building permits this fall. Currently, the
builder is placing services in the ground and doing grading
works. There will be some disruption of traffic on Ducatel
Crescent, while servicing connections are being put in place,
but will be monitored closely by the Town.
I do not have any information yet on the date of completion,
as the proposed 7 storey apartment building has not yet
gone to market, according to the builder.
Report on Two Schools
in Nottingham
The Catholic Elementary school is now open, while the
Public Elementary school is not likely to open until the
following school year (Sept. '06). Neither approved site plan
includes basketball nets, however, it does seem likely that
such facilities will find their way onto the site at some point,
to help alleviate the basketball overcrowding at the new
Nottingham Park.
Ajax Honours Its Own!
Ajax’s J&F Waste Shut Out
Of Ajax Bid!
Saving the Town of Ajax millions of dollars over the last 7
years was not enough to give Ajax’s J&F Company the right
to quote on the upcoming Ajax Waste pick-up tender.
Updated legislation on the Ajax books now refuses any
potential bidder of contracts; any opportunity to submit a
quotation if they are in litigation (in court with) the Town. Any
company, albeit successful against the municipality is not
allowed to bid on new products by the unusual Ajax By-Law.
It was estimated 7 years ago the J&F Company would save
Ajax taxpayers $1 million dollars per year on waste pick-up.
The contract will now be awarded to Miller Waste of
Pickering through Durham Region. The Ajax company
spends over a million dollars in labour, vehicles and taxes
from their Ajax headquarters. Only Councillor Joe Dickson
voted to allow the Ajax company the opportunity to tender on
the contract that has saved Ajax taxpayers millions. It is
expected the new contract will cost Ajax over 1/2 million
dollars more per year.
The Town of Ajax honoured many of our special 2005
volunteers this summer. First Row (left to right) Carol
Parenteau - Girl Guides of Canada, Lynn Firth - Ajax
Budokan Club, Linda Cresswell - Ajax Garden Club, Justin
Mohammed - Ajax High School, Cathy Austin - Ajax
Spartans Minor Baseball Assn. Back Row (left to right) Joy
D’Souza - Optimists Club, Ignacio Navarro - Hispanic Can.
Alliance of Ont., Christopher Dahiroc - Notre Dame C.S.,
John Muise - Ajax Minor Hockey, Robert Watkins - Kinsmen
Club, Lynn Sterling - Pickering H.S., Danielle Pinnock J. Clarke Richardson H.S. and William (Bill) Parish - the Ajax
Civic Award Recipient for 2005.
Dear Joe
I have to air my feeling to Town council. I
read the article about obtaining a property
for a new Fire Hall.
I cannot see how council can justify not to save the Ajax
taxpayers one million dollars on the property. Does it really
make so much difference on which corner the Hall would be
built? Not only seniors are hurting, but all Ajax families
are already.
Our property taxes are constantly going up and council
throws away one million dollars? And while I am writing you,
who is the designer of that awful looking addition to our once
good looking Town Hall? It has become and eyesore. I’ve
lived here for 32 years, but Ajax never improved.
Your truly
Anny Vanderpluym
Dear Anny - I certainly concur with your comments
on the property to house a new fire hall and works
yard. I believe the Town wasted between 1.5 and 2
million dollars based on a hypothetical planning
theory. Thank you for agreeing with my position to
save the taxpayers money, albeit a losing one.
As for the difference of exterior colourings at the
Ajax Town Hall, it is a cost saving measure.
Hopefully we will be able to have the old section
match the new shade as funds become available
sometime in the future. - Thanks Joe
Dear Joe
For a change I offer you good news - the weekend was quiet,
peaceful and the only noise we heard were those of
neighbourhood children enjoying themselves.
Vehicular traffic is also a non-issue now that the concrete
blocks are placed.
Ajax Man GTAA Board Chair
Pickering Airport Design in 2009
Late last year the Board of Directors of the
GTAA announced the appointment of
Mr. Warren C. Hurren as Chairman of the
Board, effective January 1, 2005. Mr. Hurren,
a Chartered Accountant since 1974, is a
founding member of the accounting firm
Hurren, Sinclair, MacIntyre, Chartered
Accountants in Ajax. The federal government
in 2001 asked the GTAA to develop a plan for an airport on
the Pickering lands. The GTAA has completed numerous
technical studies and hosted a number of public information
sessions. These studies and consultations culminated with
the release of the Pickering Airport Draft Plan Report late
last year.
Following the release of the Draft Plan, the GTAA hosted
seven public information sessions including one here in Ajax.
Attendance at these information sessions ranged from an
average of 100 people per night to a high of 300 at the
Claremont meeting.
The GTAA now is preparing for the federal environmental
assessment, which will begin following a due diligence
review of the GTAA’s work by Transport Canada.
If approved, the Pickering Airport would be built in stages
and as demand dictates. Initially it would operate as a tworunway facility, handling much the traffic from Oshawa and
Buttonville airports that would be consolidated at Pickering.
A third runway, running in the east-west direction, would be
added when required, most likely around 2020. A map
showing the expected altitude of arriving jet aircraft is
available at www.gtaa.com.
The final decision whether or not to proceed with an airport
rests with the federal government, which will make this
decision after the planning and environmental assessment
review process is complete in approximately 2009. The
earliest that an airport could be operational in Pickering is
2012.
Again, thanks to all for bringing about a resolution that
benefits all.
For any Ajax resident who would like more information,
please contact the GTAA’s Pickering Site Office at:
Carol-Anne Chartrand, Kerrison Drive
905-619-4822 or pickeringlands@gtaa.com
Dear Joe
On behalf of Salvation Army Family Services for Ajax and
Pickering, thank you for your on going support. Without it we
would find it very difficult to provide for the many
disadvantage families and singles in our community.
May God bless you,
Regards, Dick Crosby - Coordinator
Dear Joe
I see that they have put up the poop and scoop sign on the
walkway that leads to the park at Queen and Windsor. I just
wanted to thank you.
Have a great day!
Brenda
John Kraus From DO’C and
Durham Chamber Orchestra
Celebrate 10th Season
This year marks the 10th Anniversary for the Durham
Chamber Orchestra, and of course their director, John
Kraus. He is very pleased that the orchestra has grown over
the years and is still performing. The members of the
orchestra are also appreciative of the fact that he has
remained loyal to this community of musicians and still takes
the time to drive in every week from Peterborough to Ajax.
John is a former music director at Dennis O’Connor High
School. The next concert date is November 12th and will be
held at Notre Dame. Following that, more concerts, one
February 11th and the other May 6th. Cost per person is $10
for adults, $8 for seniors and students and $5 for children
under 12 years. See you there!
Village Fall Festival Drew 1000’s
About 50 beautiful classic cars were part of the popular
Village Festival in September. Shown in this photo are
Heather and Bill Tighe with a beautiful 1966 Thunderbird
Town Landau, Judy (nee Phillips) and Mike Dobson with
their awesome 34 Plymouth Streetrod, and Bill Phillips with
a well maintained 1954 Chevrolet Belair. All are or have been
long time Ajacians.
There was lots to do for the kiddies in the 2 day festival,
which also included 30 vendors, a pig roast, pancake
breakfast and a giant street dance featuring the Lincolnaires
and popular celebrity Erin Davis.
The Biggest Ham(s)
Hangs Them Up, Again
His hands are twice as large as most men,
his personality is one that everyone loves
and envies, and he’s retiring after an NHL
and “NHL Oldtimers” hockey career
spanning almost 60 years. Four years ago
he played 5 games in 2 days at an oldtimers hockey tournament. Ajax’s loveable
giant Ivan Irwin is the man that famed NHL
referee Red Storey called “the toughest
man in the NHL he ever met.” The other side
of the coin was a comment by Donna
Dickson, (Joe’s wife), who called Ivan one
of the gentlest men I ever met. Donna, an
RN was his “head nurse” one term at
Ballycliffe Lodge which Ivan owned. Ivan
and his wife, Peg, own a very popular bed
and breakfast in Ajax. Ivan’s hockey career
in the latter 40’s and 50’s was with Montreal
Canadians and NY Rangers prior to close a
half decade with the NHL Oldtimers. Now
Ajax has exclusive ownership of his boisterous laugh and smiling, caring face.
Today
50 years ago
New Loblaws Berm To Stay
On Bayly Street In Ajax
That giant 20-25 ft berm on the north side of Bayly Street
(Baseline Road) between Shoal Point Road and Audley
Road will apparently now stay there. The hill should be
shaved on top, graded, sodded, landscaped and maintained,
meaning it would not be left unattended in what is more often
than not, an unacceptable appearance on major arteries.
The reason for the mound is two fold. One to offer some type
of privacy on its 100 acre Loblaw site and secondly to hide
its shipping doors and truck depot. Council is now being told
the original estimated 600 tractor trailers a day was
increased to 900 a day and currently as many as 1,500 a day
coming in and then going out. The trucks will come off 401 at
Salem Road South and immediately proceed east bypassing
virtually all Ajax traffic. The builders/developers of the area
road were just recently forced to change a one storey
building adjacent to a Tim Hortons, Shell Station and a major
gasoline terminal to two stories high. It was meant to add
prestige to the road when it was thought to see some 600
tractor trailers a day. Now with the revised count of 1,500
giant vehicles coming and going to give the road some 3,000
tractor trailer daily movements, one has to wonder why some
members of council forced the issue. Council voted in favour
of a 2 storey building with a 5-2 vote. If it has one 2 storey
office/commercial building that would give the occupants a
great view of the roofs of the 3,000 tractor trailers daily,
wouldn’t you want to work there?
“Father Jim” New
St. Bernadette’s Pastor
The installation of Reverend
Father James M. Bussanick
(“Father Jim”) as pastor of St.
Bernadette’s Roman Catholic
Church in Ajax, took place this
fall. The ceremony was given
by His Eminence Aloysius
Cardinal Ambrozic, who is
caught by the camera with
Father Jim at the reception. A
large congregation attended
the special evening.
$1/2 Million Dollars From
Rio-Can Saves McKay House
Artists renderings here show what the McKay House will
look like in the future. The dilapidated house is currently
sitting between Canadian Tire and the Cinema in the
Durham Centre in north Ajax. Meetings with Rio-Can
arranged by Councillor Joe Dickson with Stuart Craig and
others from Rio-Can to review the potential of saving the
building. All that was needed was the will and the money!
Working with Councillor Scott Crawford, Ajax Planning
Manager, Brian Bridgeman and Heritage Committee Chair
Bob Martindale and member Bob Murray, Councillor Dickson
took a plan back to council that was unanimously endorsed
by Ajax.
A formal legal agreement is now in place and the restoration
should take about 8-10 months. Here are some significant
facts about the McKay House.
Donald Mckay and
his wife Margaret,
arrived in the Ajax
area in the mid
1830’s, settling into
an existing log
cabin on the north
side of Kingston
Road just east of
Pickering Beach
Road. (now Salem
Road)
In 1854, Donald McKay built his family an impressive two
storey stone home on the land,
reputedly at a cost of £800. The care
and craftsmanship of a Scottish
or British stone mason is
apparent in the front facade,
and since the front of the
dwelling was visible from
Kingston Road, it received
the expensive and
detailed construction.
The McKay House is
unique to the Ajax area for the prevalence of Kingston
limestone detail throughout, as a complement to its lovely
fieldstone walls.The dwelling, also known as Charnacy after
the village in Scotland where Donald McKay was born, is
important to Ajax as it is the only two story fieldstone house
still standing. It was also featured in the 1877 County of
Ontario Atlas.
Happy
Birthday Gail!
One special care lady, Gail
Russell who resides in the
village celebrated her 38th
birthday this September.
Lots of friends dropped by
to wish her “Happy Birthday”
including Joe Dickson.
Dear Joe
I just wanted to tell you how much my family
and I enjoyed the carnival that was held in
the parking lot of the Ajax Community
centre during home week last year. My
children as well as those of my neighbours enjoyed the rides,
games and food. As someone who resides on Tragunna
Lane (which backs onto the Ajax Community Centre parking
lot) I can tell you that the carnival did not inconvenience us
at all. the noise was kept at a minimum and the area was
returned to the same condition or better as before they
arrived. The neighbourhood children are looking forward to the
carnival coming back again this year.
Yours sincerely,
Denise Masterson
Too bad 4 of the 7 members of council and some
recreation staff did not share your vision - Joe
Dear Joe
How very much we appreciate you! Your warm friendly
greetings spur us on to continue in prayer for those who
“have the rule over us”.
Joe experience another BLESSED Christmas with your
family - God’s gift to you. We appreciate your hard work and
dedication to “our town”.
Joy to the world. Joy to Ajax - the Lord has come.
Viviane and Dianne
on behalf of women who pray.
A number of devoted ladies pray for council, every
Monday, just outside our chambers. Their thoughts
and efforts are sincerely appreciated - Joe
Dear Joe
Yesterday I got home from work to a pleasant surprise. Five
new Maple trees had been planted on the boulevard on
Kerrison Drive in front of Terry Fox Public School.
Thank you for your time and courtesy to contact the
individuals who contributed to getting this job done. I
appreciated your quick response and follow-up.
Please send my thanks to Brian, and Bruce at the town as
well.
Happy Thanksgiving/long weekend
Cam Gardy
Thanks to Bruce & Brian who made it happen - Joe
Dear Joe
Thank you for your recent generous golf donation to The
Salvation Army’s Hope Community Church, Community and
Family Services (Food Bank).
Your generosity will contribute to the maintenance and
growth of our programs in Ajax and Pickering, especially at
this time as we are in the process of moving to a new
location and have a number of additional expenses.
Thank you and God bless! - Dick Crosby,
Ajax Coordinator, Community and Family Services
The Salvation Army & St. Vincent de Paul food
banks help so many - Joe
Millions of Dollars To Get
South Ajax Waterfront
2005-2006 Ajax Kinsmen
Elections and Awards Selected
Ajax is spending close to 5 million dollars to acquire
additional waterfront lands. The largest piece of property on
the east side of Shoal Point Road at Lakeview, known as the
Hornung property is costing you and I, three million dollars.
Only the region is assisting with 1/2 million dollars. The
Conservation Authority as might be expected, did not
contribute. The scale of this land to Ajax was finalized in the
last few weeks, in September.
One of Ajax’s most active service club elected their new
executive for 2005-2006 this September. Ajax resident and
deputy-governor Richard Zaluski inducted new president
Mark Illy with the assistance of outgoing president Jason
Lyford.
Further to the east the waterfront lands near Audley, known
as the Lakeside land will cost us 1.5 million dollars. No large
tracks of parkland are currently being acquired by the Town
in north Ajax.
The new executive is:
President - Mark Illy
VP Administration - Rob Mackie
Membership - Gerry O’Riley
Secretary - Chris Snell
Past President - Jason Lyford
VP Service - Greg Bond
Treasurer - David Dawson
Bulletin Editor - Andrew Flynn
One home and property at the Pickering Beach Waterfront at
a cost of $300,000 has also been picked up by the Town. The
acquisitions are expensive, but once in a lifetime opportunity.
Supporting all purchases were Parish, Brown, Jordan, Dies
and Dickson.
The Hornung land transaction closed Friday, September 9,
2005. The Hornung family continues to have use of the
accessory buildings until September 16, 2008.
Ajax Tax Spending Increased
10.5% In 2005
Yes, Ajax grew by just over 5% last year, raising another $1.5
million for the Ajax tax coffers. Then came the additional
5.4% tax increase bringing the actual dollars to 10.5% more
that Ajax residents were paying.
Staff felt the 2005 general levy should be 9.4% but council
reduced that to 6.3% when Councillor Collier and his
colleagues reviewed it. At council Mayor Parish moved to
reduce the budget $300,000 or 1% to 5.4% and council
approved the reduction.
Ajax council received a $580,000 windfall dividend from
Veridian. Councillor Dickson moved a reduction of $280,000,
bringing the tax increase down to 4.5%, but council did not
approve this reduction in taxes. Councils overall budget ($28
million operating and $25 million capital) was just under
$52,000,000 for 2005.
Province of Ontario stricter building code changes
automatically increased Ajax taxes by 1.5%. Some other
expenditures were, trail system $431,000, new parks and
par redevelopment $950,000, traffic calming $230,000 and
3.4 million dollars for street resurfacing.
Here’s your new 2005-2006 Kinsmen executive: Mark Illy,
Jason Lyford, Rob mackie, Greg Bond, Gerry O’Riley, David
Dawson, Chris Snell and Andrew Flynn.
Kinsmen Awards
Roy Miller “Biggest” Bull
Brian Dougherty
Thrower Award
Executive of the Year
Dennis Cecconet
Greg Bond
The Bronze Broom
Bryan Clute Memorial
Curling Award
Fellowship Award
Mark Illy
Chris Snell
Ron Niddrie Public
Speaking Award
Steve Bullock
J. Y. Witty Chairman
of the Year
Gerry O’Riley
Stu Young Rookie
of the Year
Andrew Flynn
Vic Ames Kinsmen of the Year Award - Al Davies
2005-2006 United
Way Kickoff
Ajax’s portion of the residential tax bill is 30 per cent, and
education represents 21 percent and Durham Region
accounts for 49 per cent, using rounded numbers. If your tax
bill was $4,000. then only $1,200 of that was Ajax taxes.
The Official
Opening of
Bolton C. Falby
Public School
Bolton C. Falby Public School was officially opened January
of this year at 80 Falby Court, Ajax. The newly named
school, honouring one of the towns builders, and it’s first
Town Clerk was opened with the Falby family present. The
elementary school replaces Exeter Secondary School.
Campaign
Chair John
Wiersma
receives
grandson
Kylers
support.
Ajax-Pickering-Uxbridge
Executive Director Edna Klazek
smiles as we helped kickoff
the Campaign at the Ajax
Community Centre foodfest in
September. With Edna are (left)
Campaign Chair John Wiersma
and (right) popular past
Pickering Mayor and our AjaxPickering Provincial MPP
Wayne Arthurs. Our goal this
year is 1.9 million and you can
lend a hand by calling
905-686-0606.
New St. Francis de Sales 850
Seat Church Underway
Town Antes Up Free Lunch
For Expanded Ajax Waterfront
Ajax taxpayers got a free lunch at the Ajax Waterfront late
September of this year to celebrate the official acquisition of
the Hornung property and others into public ownership.
Some 300-400 people attended, at the event MC’d by
Councillor Pat Brown. Speakers were Mayor Steve Parish
and Regional Chair Roger Anderson as only Ajax and
Durham Region contributed financially, and speaking on
behalf of TRCA was Colleen Jordan. Also present were
Councillors Jo-Anne Dies and Joe Dickson (arm in sling) who
is seen here with Larry Field, an Area Supervisor with TRCA.
The 5 members of
council mentioned
here were those
who voted in
favour of the
acquisition.
Dickson,one of
the 5 was also
Waterfront Chair
for 15 years.
On the corner of Ravenscroft and Rossland Avenue, the
hopes and dreams of the Parishioners of St. Francis de
Sales Parish are sprouting up in a big way. The construction
of their new Worship Space has begun. Each week, the
designs and plans of the new 850 seat Worship Space
becomes more of a reality. The arduous journey and the end
of that pilgrimage is in sight.The anticipated opening of the
new place of Worship is next Summer. The project began in
earnest over seven years ago with the retirement of the
venerable and much loved paster of almost 2 decades,
Fr. Bolger. Since then, the Parish has kicked it into high gear,
raising the money necessary to create this wonderful venue.
The $5 million cost is being funded in cooperation with the
Archdiocese of Toronto. The Parish needs to raise at least
half the amount, with the Archdiocese bridging the other half
as a long term loan to the Parish.Through the generosity of
the Parish, the sale of the old church, to the Durham Catholic
District School Board and bequeaths and legacies, the
project was given the okay in November of 2004. That set
into motion the finalization of plans, the elimination or
deferral of some aspects of the plan due to financial
constraints. So every time you pass by our new site, say a
little prayer for the congregation that our endeavours and our
efforts will bring us closer to God as a community of faithful,
under the patronage of St. Francis de Sales.
A Recycling Challenge To
Ajax Businesses
Joe Dickson has issued a challenge to other businesses
locally to come up with a higher percentage of recycling than
his Dickson Printing Company has. He has indicated “Waste
Reduction Week” which is October 17-23 is the ideal time to
begin and to reduce Ajax waste even more.
The local printing business, as can be seen in the photo
uses a multitude of measures to recycle approximately 80%
of waste product. You can see the giant paper recycle bins
and also the area further to the right which is for broken
down cardboard. These 2 efforts of Dicksons in conjunction
with a red wiggler composting box on site and blue box
recycling as well, are 4 of the reasons they are able to
recycle up to 80%.
Landfills (dumps) are a serious
problem due to leaching into
our waterways while at the
same time emitting methane
gas which contributes to the
serious greenhouse effect of
which we are all to familiar. It is
imperative we increase our
recycling and reduce waste
with useable new technologies
including expanded composting
as well as plasma conversion
which can recycle 100% of end
of life products.
Contributions can be made to the St. Francis de Sales
Building Fund, 82 Church Street South, Ajax, Ontario
L1S 6B3. Tax receipts are available, just call the Rectory at
905-683-1403.
Casino To Be “AJAX DOWNS!
It’s official as of January 1st, 2006, our soon to be completed
casino will be known as “Ajax Downs”. The facility could
employ approximately 200 people and could be open as
early as mid May to the first of June. The Ontario Lotto
Corporation which controls the facility could start making
announcements by Christmas. The public is waiting for the
OLC to confirm hours of operation, and if applications for
employment could commence by January 2006. A public
announcement on this is hoped for by Christmas.
Mayor’s Levee Kicked Off Ajax 50th Anniversary
Ajax Council cut the cake.
Entertainment at it’s best.
Lots of Council experience here. Left to Right:
Joyce Smith, (wife of former Mayor Harry Smith)
Bill Parish, Marnie Parish, Pat Brown,
Frank Schaper and Pat Clark.
Past Mayors Jim Witty and
Bill Parish.
A past civic award
winner, Maureen
Farmer and Bill McKie
(Town Cryer).
Guy Colm
popular Ajax
watchdog.
Germaine and Les
Pearce, a former
treasurer in Ajax.
Left to right: Martin deRond, Rob Ford, Renato Pein, Sharon
Meredith, John Fleck & Brian Skinner.
Louise Johnson and Donna Andrechuck
pose with Adam Tanner from Black’s
Camera. The ladies are showing off one
of a dozen historical photo boards they
comprised after hundreds of volunteer hours.
Brian Skinner, Town CAO
and Cherry Sevigny,
Mayors secretary.
Two popular past
Councillors, Val
Marshall and Don
Shank.
Past Councillor, Randy Low
(left) and Regional
Councillor Scott Crawford.
Left to right: Scott Crawford, Jacquelyn Tanner,
Rick Coté, Jo-Anne Dies, Jim Witty, Nancy Maxwell
and Joe Dickson.
Mom and daughter
enjoy the day.
Ajax Home Week Honoured Veterans and Celebrated 50th
Honouring the Year of the Veteran.
Doug Ferguson
received the special
“Military Medal” as a
Hong Kong Prisoner.
Steve Parish & Pat Brown.
1st Class Transportation
for British Vets.
Pipers on Parade.
Our British Veterans on Parade.
One of our favourite animals.
It is a miniature horse (not a pony).
Stay off my back!
Jo-Anne Dies & Colleen Jordan.
George Chaput, was
presented the rare
Distinguished Flying
Cross, after 51 missions
as a rear gunner.
George is Ajax’s most
decorated veteran.
A guest from the Bowmanville Zoo.
Young families love Ajax.
Ajax Home Week Honoured Veterans and Celebrated 50th
Enjoying Ajax’s veterans
reception were BIll Hardy,
Trevor Stevens and Tom Veitch.
The popular Concert Band, HM Royal
Marine Assoc. unit from Coburg.
Three of the bands in unison at the tatoo.
Ajax Sea Cadets.
The Ajax Home Week refreshment centre was
the largest and most successful ever thanks
to Magwyers Pub and Ajax Legion Br. 322.
Many decorated Legion Veterans attended the
60th Anniversary war ending here.
Bonnie Sharpe, our clown
Jeannette Bourne and
Maggie Smith.
Sgt. at Arms
Howard “Butch”
Andrews.
Home Week Co-chair Gerry O’Riley,
Councillor Shaun Collier and his
lovely wife Carla.
Here is decorated veteran Jan
Devries who spearheaded
Past president Agnes
Canada’s new Juno Beach
Heasley presents another building drive. He is seen with
Ajax Legion president, Tom
Joe Dickson who took the
Veitch his Legion 60th
project to Council. Our town
Anniversary plaque.
became a donator.
Faelyne Templer, Paul
Pakyam and Alton Atkinson
Co-Chairs of the Caribana
Multicultural Night.
Lots of friendly faces from Fire Services
helped kick off the 2005-2006 United Way
Drive.
Always Something Happening In Ajax - Both Good and Bad!
Rare 25 Year Ajax Big Brother
A very humble Joe Marks is seen
with the rare “25 Year Big Brother
Award” that he was presented at
the associations annual general
Helping Hand
meeting here. One of the presenters
Popular
Reid Sevigny helps
was Marc Verner who benefitted
another
satisfied
Ajax Handi- Few locations in Ajax were not flooded in August. Here is the
rom Joe’s manner years ago and
Rendezvous and Edge Plaza at Bayly and MacKenzie after
Transit
client.
who is now himself a big brother.
Katrina.
Terry Fox Run Increases Donations over 50%
Laurel Galt, principal of Terry Fox school in Ward 2 and Mayor Steve
Parish help kick off the 25th Terry Fox run. Ajax donations increased
this fall from $24,000 in 2004 to $38,000 in 2005.
CAR
Beauties & Costumes a Hit!
The very first event for Home
Week in June this year was a
Caribana Night which featured
beautiful costumes & attractive
women. No wonder the event
was a sell-out.
Hunt Street near Commercial Avenue saw up to 10” of water.
One nearby company, Dickson Printing suffered almost
$60,000 inventory damage.
MOTOR
Do Ajax Kids Speed?
When you see this car virtually cut
in half, with the car on the lawn and
the engine on the street, you must
wonder! The underage driver and
passengers on Pickering Beach Rd
S at Dreyer Dr barely escaped with
Multicultural Nite Family Affair
their lives! That’s the light standard
on the road. Do you think the Alton Atkinson and his lovely wife Mimi, with their 3 children
including their new baby of a few months Mathew, at Home Week
underage driver was speeding?
Caribana Night. With them are councillors Scott Crawford and
PS - Charges were layed!
Joe Dickson with Home Week Co-chair Gerry O’Riley. That’s
Councillor
Crawford
and other hardworking
volunteers at the door,
in the photo on the left.
Are You Hungry?
These were 2 of the food providers at Caribana Night for Home
Week. Our photo of 5 is Caribbean from the Soup Shack in the
Village. Owner Donna Laurence is on the left while Pat Bailey runs
the Kitchen with 2 attractive escorts. On the right is the warm
delightful food of Manoher Singh and his family from the East Indian
Mount Everest restaurant in the Village.
Pickering Council Too Rich For Ajax
All members of our council were out to
Bowl for Ajax-Pickering Big Brothers.
Pickering Council collected more $
donations for Big Brothers than Ajax
Council was able to.
Parkside Talks
Underway
The former Prakside
Public School site is
being reviewed with
its’ owners, Wasdale
School of Learning.
The school is on Kings
Cres. and in addition
to discussions, the site
will also undergo an
appraisal. More on this
site in the New Year.