Kitchener Citizen - West Edition - February 2014

West Edition

KITCHENER’S ORIGINAL COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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Visit us atForest Glen Plaza700 Strasburg Rd.

KitchenerStore hours: Monday to Friday 8:00am to 9:00pm

Saturday 8:00am to 8:00pm and Sunday 9:00am to 6:00pm

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Book a complimentary assessment!Call 519-742-7373 or drop by 1170 Fischer-Hallman Rd.

www.kitchenercitizen.com • Thursday, February 13, 2014 • Circulation 32,500

www.kitchenercitizen.com • twitter@KitchCitizen

What’s Inside...Carl Zehr will not run again...How will our airport grow?..Opinon...Grand Valley Institute forum...Sports...Councillor Columns...Arts & Entertainment

page 2page 3pages 7page 10-11pages 14-15pages 18-19pages 22-23

Kitchener resident Narine Dat Sookram will receive the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award on February 19.

The Governor General’s office says the award “recognizes individuals who volunteer their time to help others and to build a smarter and more caring nation. The award also highlights the fine example set by these volunteers, whose compassion and engagement are so much a part of our Canadian character.”

Sookram is a local volunteer and community builder. He is also the founder of Active Vision Charity Association, which provides books and school supplies to Guyanese youth, and host of the award-winning weekly community radio show Caribbean Spice.

Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor David Onley will present the award to Sookram and 30 other recipients at Queen’s Park, in Toronto.

“I am always honoured to be

recognized, especially when it is from the mainstream. I never thought a small boy who grew up in one of the smallest villages in Berbice would make such an impact. For me it is more prestigious to be amongst other heroic recipients who have one thing

in common and that is to maximize their potential to make Canada a better place,” said Sookram.

The history of the award states that when Roméo LeBlanc became Governor General he wanted to thank “the thousands of caring people who give so much to their fellow citizens, the unsung heroes who volunteer their time, their efforts and a great deal of their lives to helping others, and who ask for nothing in return.”

The Caring Canadian Award was then created in 1995. The pin has a maple leaf to symbolize the people of Canada; a heart for the open-heartedness of volunteers; and an outstretched hand portraying generosity.

Sookram has always been engaged in his community, both in the Region of Waterloo and his homeland, Guyana. He has received over 100 recognitions, including the RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award in 2013.

TO BE PRESENTED FEBRUARY 19

Kitchener’s Sookram wins national volunteer award

CANADIANLEGEND

Canadian Reggae artist Errol Blackwood performs solo during

the Black History Month showcase at Kitchener City Hall February 7. Blackwood began his career in Kitchener as an original member of

the Juno Award winning band Messenjah. The showcase was one of

many events planned in Waterloo Region this

month. See more eventlistings on page 4.

Photo by Carrie Debrone

FAMILY SKATE

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23RD 2:30-4:30 PMAt Kitchener Memorial Auditorium – Kiwanis Arena

JOIN ME FOR A FREE John Milloy, MPPKitchener Centre

For more information, please call my constituency office at 519-579-5460.

Narine Dat Sookram

519-748-1914 • waterlooregionmuseum.com

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Kitchener’s longest serving Mayor has decided to retire in October.

Carl Zehr announced Feb-ruary 4 that he will not seek re-election at the end of this term.

Zehr has been mayor for 17 years and served nine years as a city councillor before that. During that time he also served 23 years as a Region of Waterloo councillor.

“Over the past three decades our community has accomplished a great deal,” noted Zehr.

Zehr credited his colleagues on five different city councils over the past 17 years who have worked together with the community to complete a number of significant projects, including the construction or expansion of 12 community centres, the construction of Activa Sportsplex, the creation of McLennan Park and the Huron Natural Area, the expansions of Don Cardillo Arena, development of the Walter Bean Grand River Trail, construction of six of Kitchener’s seven fire stations, expansion of the Doon Valley Golf Course, the city’s purchase and upgrading of the Sportsworld Arena, upgrading of the Peter Hallman Ball Yard, construction of the new Kitchener Market, construction or renovation of three of the city’s current libraries, upgrades to Victoria Park including the rehabilitation of the lake, and the construction of a new Kitchener Operations Facility.

“After 17 busy years, I feel I have contributed what I can to the community as its mayor. While I haven’t made any decisions about what the future holds for me, I am looking forward to pursuing other professional and personal opportunities, as well as a change of pace that will allow me greater flexibility to spend

time with my family and to travel,” Zehr said.

“Carl’s 17 years as mayor have provided Kitchener with the steady-hand, collaborative style and visionary thinking which have served our community well,” said Berry Vrbanovic, who has been a city councillor during Zehr’s entire career as mayor.

“When history looks back at his time as mayor, I think he will be remembered for his focus on re-inventing the local economy - creating jobs and bringing new sectors such as technology into Kitchener, thus reversing the decline of our downtown, improving quality of life, and giving young people a reason to stay in our community upon completion of school. Unlike other cities in southern Ontario or the northeastern US who are

still grappling with the decline and job losses caused by various global trends, Kitchener and Waterloo region has been able to re-invent itself.”

Ward 10 councillor Dan Glenn-Graham declared in January that he is running for the mayor’s seat. So far, he is the only candidate, but that is expected to change.

“I declared early to be clear that Mayor Zehr’s decison to run or not was not a factor in my decision. I believe that a great and diverse city like Kitchener deserves a great debate of diverse visions and now that the field has no incumbent, I hope those who were unsure before will now come forward as soon as possible to allow the public to get to know us all,” Glenn-Graham said after the mayor’s announcement.

l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l February 13, 2014

BilIoannidisCity Council

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Last year was another record-breaking year for passenger traffic at the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF).

A total of 138,733 passengers travelled from the local airport in 2013 -- a 15 per cent increase over 2012, which was also a record-breaking year.

“2013 was the busiest year ever at the airport. We want to thank everyone who made the choice to support our airline partners American, Bearskin, Sunwing and WestJet and to fly from Waterloo Region,” said Chris Wood, Airport General Manger, Region of Waterloo International Airport.

“The airlines are seeing an increase in advance bookings and the use of one-stop connections to destinations throughout the United States, Canada and the world. We are confident that our passenger numbers will continue to grow in 2014, as we work with existing and new carriers to bring more air service options to our community.”

The local airport offers non-stop daily flights to Calgary, Chicago and Ottawa, with one-stop service available to over 250 destinations in over 40 countries. Weekly direct service to Cancun, Mexico is also available with Sunwing until March 17, 2014.

One of the top 20 busiest airports in Canada, the Waterloo Regional International Airport recorded 106,923 aircraft movements (a landing or a takeoff), up 3.2 per cent over 2012.

Airport amenities have helped make travel easy and convenient, including $6 per day parking, complimentary baggage carts, free high-speed wireless internet, charging stations, licensed departure lounge and new lobby café (both operated by Edelweiss) and National, AVIS and Hertz car rentals available on-site.

2013 a record-breaking year at Region of Waterloo airport

Kitchener Mayor Carl Zehr will not seek re-election in October

Mayor Carl Zehr holds the Olympic Torch when it passed through Kitchener in December 2009 on its way to Vancouver for the 2010 Winter Olympics. With Zehr is Brad Schlegel of Kitchener, who was a member of the Canadian men’s hockey team at the 1992 and 1994 Winter Olympic Games.

by Helen Hall

How big should the Region of Wa-terloo International Airport be?

The region is creating a master plan to recommend growth at the airport over the next 20 years.

About 300 people attended a public meeting at the Waterloo Region Museum on February 6 to review the possibilities and ask questions.

“Nothing has been decided yet,” said Airport General Manager Chris Wood. He said they are trying to determine what is the “optimum size” for the airport, and hope to have a recommendation for regional council by 2015.

Four options were presented at the meeting. They ranged from Option 1, called the “status quo”, to a high growth plan where over a million passengers would pass through the airport each year.

Under Option 1, up to 243,100 passengers could use the airport annually. In 2013, 138,733 passengers used the airport in 46 weekly flights. Adding an additional seven flights a week would increase the number of passengers.

Improvements to the site under Option 1 include expanding the parking lot, reconfiguring the existing terminal, and relocating the Air Traffic Control tower. The $5-million required for these improvements is already included in the current budget for the airport.

Wood said that, under this option, revenues could rise to $5-million annually, but that taxpayers would still contribute $25 per household annually to subsidize the airport.

Under the high growth Option 4, a new terminal building would be constructed, a new entrance and access roads would be built, and additional parking would

be provided.One current runway would need to

be extended, and a brand new runway would have to be built to accommodate the increased air traffic.

Wood said an expansion of this size might create a “change in governance” at the airport, as it is difficult for a municipal department to run an airport of this size.

“We haven’t spent a lot of time on Option 4,” Wood said. “It sounds like a lot to go from today to over a million passengers a year.”

To reach over a million passengers, the airport would have to add more than 133 flights to the current 46 flights each week.

Option 2 is the Low Growth option, which could increase the number of annual passengers from 243,100 to a possible 388,000. It would mean adding between seven and 39 flights per week.

Airport improvements would include runway and taxiway extensions, a reconfigured entrance road and parking improvements, and an expansion of the terminal building.

Under this option, taxpayers would still subsidize the airport for about $25 per household annually.

Moderate growth Option 3 could increase airport passengers from 388,000 annually to 1,024,700. This would add 39 to 133 extra flights to the airport each week.

Site improvements would include an expansion of the terminal building, runway relocation and expansion, additional lighting, entrance road widening and parking lot improvements, and the rezoning of lands for a future runway and the realignment of Shantz Station Road.

Because of the development in the east end of Kitchener and in Breslau,

Wood said that the rezoning is necessary to protect the land in case an additional runway is ever required.

It is estimated that if the airport reached over a million passengers a year, it would finance itself and its capital requirements, and taxpayers would no longer have to subsidize it. Any surplus revenues would go to the region.

However, Wood said, whichever option is chosen, these financial estimates rely on an increase in air traffic and passengers choosing to use

the Waterloo Region airport. Wood said the Waterloo Region

airport has the “biggest opportunity” to increase its passenger count, being located so close to Toronto.

The region is also collecting comments from the public online at www.waterlooairport.ca/masterplan or you can send an email to [email protected]. They will determine if a second public information session is required in the spring.

February 13, 2014 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l

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REGION OF WATERLOO AIRPORT MASTER PLAN

Deciding on the local airport’s ‘optimum size’

Region of Waterloo International Airport’s General Manager Chris Wood explains the four options the region is considering for growth at the airport during the next 20 years.

Photo by Helen Hall


Region of Waterloo councillors approved a 1.86 per cent tax increase finalizing the 2014 budget at their January 15 meeting.

The increase of 1.05 per cent for regional services and 0.81 per cent for police services will increase the average household tax by $32.38. Regional services make up about 50 per cent of the residential property tax bill.

“We had to make some difficult choices on how to allocate funds to meet critical needs in

the community,” says Tom Galloway, regional councillor and Chair of the Budget Committee.

The region is a major provider of essential community services including helping families, children and seniors, ensuring the safety of our drinking water, getting people to the hospital in emergencies, ensuring the availability of affordable housing, providing public transit, garbage and recycling collection, building and maintaining regional roads.

Waterloo Region council approves1.86 per cent tax increase for 2014

After nearly 11 hours of deliberation, Kitchener city council approved a tax rate increase of 0.99 per cent for its 2014 budget.

Based on the average residential household assess-ment of $258,000, the city portion of the annual property tax rate will increase by $10.

Staff and council had to consider two contrasting themes – keeping the tax rate increase affordable for property owners and ensuring adequate levels of funding to sustain operations.

Some of the budget highlights include:• Eight new revenue sources approved to

reduce tax levy including: increases to user fees, cost recovery initiatives in bylaw, engineering and special events and generating advertising

and sponsorship revenue.• Water rates increased by 3.5 per cent and

sanitary sewer rates increased by 5 per cent the majority of which relates to the cost imposed by the Region of Waterloo for water supply and wastewater treatment.

• Stormwater rates increased by three per cent to fund critical infrastructure projects.

• Two additional bylaw staff added to help reduce response times and ensure officers are available 24/7 to respond to calls from the public.

• Two additional information technology staff to implement and support technologies to expand mobile computing leading to operational efficiencies and improved customer service.

Kitchener city council approves 2014budget increase of less than 1 per cent

www.regionofwaterloo.ca/water

Sunday, March 23, 1-2:30 p.m. – RIM Park, Waterloo (Room 207/208) “From Grass to Garden in Eight Easy Steps” - Many people are intimidated about the thought of adding new gardens when the truth is it can be very easy. Learn how to create easy, low maintenance gardens in just eight steps! Speaker: Aileen Barclay Saturday, March 29, 10-11:30 a.m. – Cambridge Centre for the Arts (Toyota Auditorium) “Plant Trees – They’re the bee’s knees” - Let us guide you in finding sight appropriate and drought tolerant trees for your yard, providing you with many benefits such as conserving water, and reducing your carbon footprint. Speaker: Lisa Hunter Wednesday, April 2, 7:30-9 p.m. – Regional Council Chambers, 150 Frederick St., Kitchener“Tree care 101 - Keeping your leafy investment happy and healthy” - Your trees do a lot for you; so make sure you return the favour. Learn how to care for your trees so they look great and stay healthy. Speaker: Sabrina SelvaggiSaturday, April 5, 10-11:30 a.m. – Meadow Acres Garden Centre, Petersburg “Lawn alternatives and native plant landscapes” - We love our lawns, but sometimes they take just too much work. This seminar will look at great alternatives to your high maintenance lawn. Speaker: Derek LippertSunday, April 13, 1-2:30 p.m. – Sheridan Nurseries, Kitchener “Looks Good Enough to Eat! Living off YOUR Land” - Learn the basics of your own food. This talk will look at creative solutions for city yards and how to keep your edible garden looking great! Speaker: Sean James Saturday April 26, 10-11:30 a.m. – St. Jacobs Country Gardens, St. Jacobs “What To Do with a Downpour: Ornamental Ways to Capture Rain” - Our urban communities have a lot of hard surfaces. When it rains, the water cannot filter through these surfaces, leading to excessive run-off, degraded water quality, increased erosion and even flooding. Learn what you can do at home to help filter the rain, while beautifying your landscapes and using a new and unique palette of plants. Speaker: Sean James

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There are a number of February events planned in celebration of Black History Month.

On Family Day, February 17, the 4th annual “Bring on the Sunshine Festival” will be held from 10am to 5pm at Forest hill United Church, 121 Westmount Road, Kitchener. Enjoy the best of Africa in the midst of winter (Waterloo Region loves Sunshine!) - as well as art workshops for kids, live music, tasty food, fabulous market place browsing and further fun activities for all ages. Cost: free or by donation. For more information visit bringonthesunshine.ca

On February 23 One Nobel Journey: A Box Marked Freedom 7:30pm at The Registry tells the true story about Henry “Box” Brown, an African American who was born a slave in 1816 in Louisa County, Virginia. At the age of 33, he was bequeathed to his master’s son, who sent him to work in his tobacco factory in Richmond. When Brown witnessed his wife and children taken from him and sold to another state, he reached his breaking point and devised an escape plan that would have him sealed in a small wooden box and shipped to friends and to freedom in Philadelphia. This show runs 90 minutes, and is appropriate for a mixed audience.

Faith and the Arts celebration at Maranatha Lutheran Church, 236 Woodhaven Rd. Kitchener, from 11am to 4pm Sunday, February 23, 2014. Cost: free

Saturday, February 22 at 4pm - The first annual Black Heritage Saturday “Music Love and Family” at The GBHS Cultural Centre, 83 Essex Street, Guelph. $7 adults, $5 children, $20 familes (2 adults, 2 children). Contact info: [email protected]

Enjoy the tastes of cultural foods prepared by Ellison’s Bistro at Friday food festivals in Kitchener’s city hall rotunda, taking place on February 15 and 22, accompanied by dancing and sounds of a steel band.

The Kitchener Market is also celebrating Black History Month. A special Kids’ Hop will take place on Tuesday, February 19 and on Saturday, February 23, visit Caribbean Kitchen once again to soak up the flavours of the Caribbean while you sway to reggae and calypso beats. Crafts for kids will be available and much more. Visit www.kitchenermarket.ca for complete details.

For more information on each event, including locations, costs and times visit www.tapestrycelebrations.ca

Local Black History Month events

The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Waterloo Region and Landmark Cinemas in Kitchener will host the 5th annual Movie Morning to End MS on Family Day, Monday, February 17 at the movie theatre located at 135 Gateway Park Drive, in Kitchener.

If you buy your tickets in advance you can see four blockbuster movies on the big screen for the low price of $10 per family or group of four people. The movies are: Despicable Me 2, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2, Ender’s Game and The Croods.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.wagjag.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the theatre on the day of the event for $20 per family or group of four people.

Attendees will be able to visit with live cos-

tumed movie characters – princesses, super heroes and ghost busters. Kitchener fire fighters and police officers will also attend along with, Tex the Kitchener Rangers’ Mascot, Miss Oktoberfest, Onkel Hans, a clown and face painters.

LED magic wands and swords will be on sale and the cinema’s concession counter will be open.

All money raised through this event goes to support programs and services at the local Waterloo Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada.

The MS Society provides services to people with multiple sclerosis and their families, as well as fund research to find the cause and a cure for this disease. For more information on the local MS Society visit www.mssociety.ca/waterloo.

Celebrate Family Day at MS Movie Morning

@KitchCitizen on twitter

The Medical Centre at The Boardwalk on Ira Needles Boulevard in Kitchener’s west side opened on February 3

Seven family physicians had patients from their existing practices booked for medical appointments at the new location on the opening day.

There are 27 doctors com-mitted to the Medical Centre, with staggered starting dates throughout 2014. They are at various stages in their careers, with 4 new medical graduates and some doctors within a few years of retirement who want a smooth transition of care for their patients.

As one of Canada's largest privately-owned buildings dedicated to healthcare, the Medical Centre at The Boardwalk was built in response to community need. With 20,000 people in the region currently without a family doctor, this landmark medical building attracts new physicians to our community, and entices graduating physi-cians to design and build their ideal office space.

The Boardwalk implemented a doctor wait list on its website, and over 4,300 families have requested a physician. As well,

there are two retiring physicians transferring all of their patients to new grads in the Medical Centre. Doctors are tackling this wait list as aggressively as possible, however patients are not currently accepted on a walk-in basis.

In addition to the physicians at the Medical Centre, several other medical and health offices are open in the building.

The Boardwalk Pharmacy is owned by registered pharmacist Andrew Awadalla.

A Body in Motion Rehab-

ilitation opened its second location at Medical Centre. The clinic is owned by Keri Martin Vrbanac, and it provides physiotherapy, massage therapy, and pelvic health physiotherapy.

The Boardwalk Occupational Health opened to offer hearing tests, commercial license driver's physicals, and employer physicals.

In the upcoming months, Oxford Medical Imaging, offering x-ray, ultrasound, mammography, fluoroscopy,

and BMD, will open, as well as Lifelabs and Toothworks Dentistry.

The Medical Centre has ample free parking. The parking lots are in close proximity to the north and south side entrances.

There are also convenient drop-off zones and a covered canopy for vehicles on the north side.

Grand River Transit now provides five bus routes to The Boardwalk, and has planned two more in order to meet increasing demand.


It is hoped that the new Medical Centre at the Boardwalk on Ira Needles will draw doctors to this area.

Doctors moving in to new Medical Centre at The Boardwalk

Do you find city council meetings boring to watch?

Drop by the Forest Heights Community Centre on February 17 and you might catch your councillor playing in a pickleball tournament.

The community centre is hosting this Family Day event.

The game of Pickleball combines aspects of ping-pong, badminton and tennis and is played with two to four players hitting a wiffle-like ball over a net.

After the tournament, the public is invited to step on the court and learn the game.

Other events being held on Family Day at the Forest Heights Community Centre include a hockey game on the outdoor rink as well as board games and crafts.

There is no admission but people are encouraged to bring a non-perischable food item for the food bank.

The event starts at noon.

Pickleball partof Forest Heightsneighbourhood’sFamily Day event


PROVINCIAL ISSUES by John Milloy, MPP for Kitchener-Centre

Season’s GreetingsWishing you a Happy,Healthy New Year

John MilloyMPP - Kitchener Centre(519) 579-5460

John’s Constituency Office1770 King. St. E, Unit 6C

(next door to Red Lobster on King)

For more information call 519-579-5460 or email John at [email protected]

December 17, 2009Holiday Open House

4:00pm to 6:00pmat

Drop-in to see Kitchener Centre MPP John Milloy and enjoy a few holiday treats!

It was just one year ago that Ontario’s new Premier, Kathleen Wynne was sworn in as

Ontario’s new Premier. Under her leadership, Ontario has seen purposeful, progressive and practical solutions and a government intent on making the legislature work.

Trust with teachers has been restored and extra-curricular activities returned to schools. We secured a sustainable future for horse racing and the many communities who depend on it. We held jobs roundtables in Waterloo Region and other communities across Ontario, talking to real people about how to grow the economy and create jobs.

As we begin 2014, our economic plan is beginning to bear fruit. Jobs were up in November and economists are predicting Ontario’s economy will grow by 2.6% in 2014, the fastest growth rate in 4 years. And on December 13, we announced a partnership with Cisco Canada that is the largest job creating investment in the history of Ontario’s tech sector.

Our economic plan is focused on investing in people, building modern infrastructure and supporting a dynamic and innovative business environment. This has positioned our economy for healthy growth in 2014 and made measurable by helping people in their everyday lives.

This year, we introduced a budget based on Liberal principles that is fair to everyone in the province. It shows a government prepared to

live within its means but committed to taking care of people first. We worked with the NDP to get it passed so that we could keep doing what the people of Ontario elected us to do—build a brighter future.

We made a deliberate decision to invest in you and build on your strengths because we believe people are Ontario’s number one asset. We expanded access to health care, launched the Youth Jobs Strategy to put 30,000 young people into good jobs, and are leading Canada towards an enhanced Canadian Pension Plan (CPP) so that everyone can retire comfortably. We are reducing the cost of car insurance and strengthening consumer protections, because you deserve to keep more of the money you earn.

By building modern infrastructure—roads, transit, hospitals and schools—we are connecting communities and making sure you can get home quickly and safely at the end of the day.

And our government continues to attract businesses and support their growth. That is why we lowered taxes for 9 out 10 - 60,000 small businesses across the province.

There is a lesson in the year that was: never underestimate the power of collaboration. Premier Wynne and our whole team rejected the politics of division, focused on what is possible, played to Ontario’s strengths, and never stopped working towards our goal of a prosperous and fair Ontario. The results speak for themselves.

PARLIAMENTARY REPORTby Stephen Woodworth MP for Kitchener-Centre

One of the ways I’ve found to serve our community is by using the office of Mem-

ber of Parliament to encourage those who are do-ing good work for the rest of us. Official recog-nition can add just a little bit of confidence and hope to the efforts of those who give generously of their time and effort to make our community a better place to live.

One of those people is Fitz “The Whip” Vanderpool with whom I recently celebrated the 11th Anniversary of his Academy. Fitz has made it his mission to mentor youth, passing on the life skills needed to live successful, fulfilling lives.

I am not a boxer. In fact, you could almost say that I am a pacifist. However, it is clear to me that Fitz “The Whip” Vanderpool exemplifies many fine qualities, including tenacity, courage, self-discipline, and generosity of spirit.

Fitz has devoted his time, effort and personal resources for many years to inspiring these same qualities in others and changing many lives along the way. He has achieved success in his

field, winning the Canadian Professional Boxing Federation title, the World Boxing Federation Intercontinental title, the World Boxing Council Welterweight Fecarbox title, the World Boxing Federation Superwelterweight World title and the World Boxing Council Superwelterweight Fecarbox title. He recently co-wrote “The Whip” which is an inspirational book about how anyone can chase their dream and succeed even when the odds are stacked against them.

Fitz’s true character is revealed by the work he does for the Waterloo Region community which include facilitating boxing programs in the Waterloo Region schools, speaking at schools to inspire young people to chase their dreams and acting as an International Fire Safety representative. Fitz is the kind of man who takes time to visit children who are ill in hospital.

Fitz’s efforts don’t make him rich. In fact they exact a toll of personal sacrifice. He deserves our support. Fitz “The Whip” Vanderpool is a fine role model for all of us.

Kathleen Wynne delivering real progress for Ontario

Honouring Fitz “The Whip” VanderpoolMarketNEWS

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN: VALENTINE’S DAY Saturday, Feb.15, 10 a.m. – noonCome to the Marketplace to make a Valentine’s treats and crafts. Wear red for fun! Olympic torch visits the market

February 15, 10 a.m. - noonWe will have the Olympic torch and medals on display. Wear your Olympic gear to celebrate our athletes. With a donation of food for the Waterloo Region Food Bank, take a pic with the torch and the mitten mascots.

TOTAL WOMAN SHOWFebruary 8-9, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Bingemans Enjoy two days showcasing women featuring speakers, fashion shows and exhibitors. Be sure to stop by to visit the Kitchener Market booth and cooking stage.

Cooking classes in the MarketplaceIt doesn’t matter if you know your way around the kitchen, can’t tell a saucepan from a frying pan, or just want a fun night out - we have a class for you! To register: Visit www.kitchenermarket.ca/cookingclasses, call 519-741-2287 or email [email protected]

Date night: Thursday, Feb. 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m.Looking for a date night idea? This cooking class focuses on fun and romantic meals made for two, to make your nights at home just as special and memorable as your nights out on the town! Join other couples for a fun night of watching a hands-on cooking demonstration while you enjoy a glass of wine. This class is $99 per couple.

Indian cuisine: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 6:30-8:30 p.m.Indian food can be spicy, sweet, sour, buttery and salty – but most of all it can be addictive! For authentic Indian recipes and hands-on teaching from a professional chef, look no further. Our Indian Cuisine class will show you just how easy it can be to make classic Indian dishes to wow your family and dinner guests alike. $55/per person.

Thai cuisine part 2: Wednesday, Feb. 26, 6:30-8:30 p.m.In this continuation of the Thai Cuisine cooking series, we will explore more in-depth techniques and more complex recipes to provide an advanced knowledge of Thai cuisine. Traditional Thai dishes use simple ingredients like rice, noodles, chicken and seafood, and combine these with flavorful sauces and spices to create a unique meal. If you have already taken the first class of this series, or if you have an interest in learning how to make complex Thai recipes with simple step-by-step guidance from a chef, this is the class for you! $55/per person.

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Next issue: March 13, 2014 • 519-394-0335


GRCA asks for patience during winter storm clean up

(West Edition)1187 Fischer-Hallman Rd.

PO Box 48045Williamsburg RO

Kitchener, ONN2E 4K6

519-394-0335 or email

[email protected]

Publisher/EditorHelen Redgwell Hall

News ReportersCarrie Debrone

Andrea Hall

ContributingColumnists

Karolyn FournierScott Davey

Berry VrbanovicYvonne Fernandes

John GazzolaKelly Galloway-Sealock

Paul SinghBil IoannidisZyg Janecki

Frank EtheringtonDan Glenn-Graham

Carl Zehr

Graphic DesignHelen Redgwell Hall

Photography/GraphicsSuzy Hall

Serving West Kitchener

For news tips &advertising

call

Helen Hall519-394-0335

Kitchener citizen...YOUR SOURCE FOR COMMUNITY NEWS

4 • APR IL 29 , 2009 • K ITCHENER CIT IZEN

PUBLISHER/EDITORCarrie Debrone

[email protected]

NEWS REPORTERSJennifer LeppekHelen Hall

Charlotte Prong Parkhill

CONTRIBUTINGCOLUMNISTSZoe Avon

Dee ConstantJennifer LeppekMarilyn LincolnTed MartinJohn MilloyJack NahrgangJanet OzarukPeter SchneiderJohn Smola

Berry VrbanovicBruce WhitestoneEverton WIlmot

Stephen Woodworth

GRAPHIC DESIGNAudra NobleHelen Hall

Rosemount HousePublishing

Established 1996

Serving Kitchener East

Independently ownedand operated

Kitchener Citizenis published monthly

by RosemountHouse Publishing

10 Edinburgh Rd.,Kitchener, ONN2B 1M5

519-578-8228

As a relatively new arrival in Kitchener I've been exploring thephotographic arts opportunities here and first impressions are veryencouraging. It's just not just in the tech side of quality that the communityshould be judged. A thriving Arts community usually does well. This cannot always be measured in the financial spectrum as the living standardexpectations of artists are remarkably low.

We don't want that two bedroom house within convenient drivingdistance to the golf course or mall. Speaking as one of those underfundedindependent art producers i'll tell you I've lived in some very badconditions just to be close to my working environment. An example beingwhen living in my various illegal Toronto warehouse studios many yearsbefore they were condoized.

There are basically two reasons for artists to be in an area. A slightlycompact arts community with low rents and the availability of galleries orvenues to showcase the art produced. I have noticed that there is a vibranttheatre network here that none the less is going through hard times. Themusic scene is really good with a solid choice of local talent that is wellpublicized by a few local free publications. Radio generally follows thestandard corprock but the University of Waterloo has an outstandingcommunity station.

The huge pool of university students to draw from for a vocal audiencewith some disposable cash helps in keeping the cities vibrant andenthusiastic. The number of professional artists is still small enough so thatthey know one another.

We are quickly seeing astounding growth in the digital imagingindustry. Fortunately, as a photographer who has been working in digital

for years it helps me integrate my own work into video, 3D, web,advertising, etc. So I think, personally, the opportunities in Kitchener arebetter than Toronto. An example being the cable TV (Rogers) that worksvery hard to involve the regions schools and artisians in locally producedprogramming.

Let's not forget that Kitchener/Waterloo was voted the most intelligentcity and speaking as a newcomer it is very evident that the level ofprofessionalism is visibly high here. People waste little time and thewelcome i've received in presenting my own portfolio to various galleriesand companies has been warm and enthusiastic. A very nice event heldin town is the quarterly parties at the KW regional art gallery. Mellowpeople who enjoy art meet each other with cool jazz and some ambientdub from the djs.

With the projected growth of the regions artists in all mediums I havefound there are many dynamic, specifically targeted plans, by themunicipal government in particular, to foster a (relatively) largecommunity investment in development towards artist integration. I was

very impressed by the Arts office at City Hall and with how they providedme with information about what was going on here. Those people in turnhave offered their own advice and contacts, so again two thumbs up forthe level of support they give each other.

Yes, there are already many photographers doing the normalphotographic needs of the region, but the opportunity to work withemerging image companies like web designers, animation houses, softwareproducers, locally based video firms, electronic images for broadcastersetc.is growing as the manufacturing base has declined. The liveentertainment industries, local graphic designers and most especially theemerging gallery system bodes well for business opportunities, even in thisdownturn.

Kitchener is projected to be growing by a conservative estimate of100,000 people over the next 20 years and plans call for a big investmentin conversions of existing warehouse buildings into studio style live workspace. Technically the manufacturing base has down- turned and left a lotof empty buildings.

If out of those numbers there are 10 percent artists in all media thatactually work at their art all of us are going to need some of this space tobuild up our community. Artists, being artists though, do not like to betold how to do things. The local government is working hard to reach thatlevel where they can integrate the needs of the artistic communityseamlessly into their development plans.

Many studies have shown time and again how efficient an Arts basedcommunity can be. A planning group called The Prosperity Councilspecifically calls for a huge investment for artists and art based businessesto encourage them to choose Kitchener as a place to work. This is the firsttime I have found a directed approach to our niche, but very valuablesegment of society. If even fifty percent of the plans get done it is still anattractive place to build a career.

Our image production is now all pixels and with the recentannouncement of a new 5 million dollar Federal grant to establish amassive digital media centre in the downtown core, it offers unexcelledopportunities to work with some of the leading edge image systems in theworld. In fact there are plans to make Kitchener a regionalcommunications hub and that leads into the possibility of thousands of newuses for my photos.

There is a very good internet system here and if you would like moreinfo just go to the net and most community plans are available. The nextthree years will establish this region of one of the "Silicon Valley" inspiredexamples of a thriving gateway of new ideas and I feel very fortunate tobe able to establish myself here with so many other creative artists.

Letter to the editor

Just what makes Kitchener so good at Arts development?

&RANTS ravesTHE KITCHENER CITIZEN OPINION PAGE

Dear Carrie Debrone,I was pleased to get your Kitchener Citizen (east edition) and found it

quite informative and I thank you for it.I just read your short article regarding the natural gas rates going down

for residential customers.You write that Kitchener Utilities have a 2,100 cubic meter average use

annually for its residential customers. I still have an imperial gas meter,which shows the consumption in cubic feet. I have never been able to readthat meter and as for that matter, even the meter readers seem to have aproblem with it as well. Why else would the city issue a bill in the amountof $452?

My January bill had been $222.16. February, $295.79, there I already satup and took notice, but then excused it by, the winter being especially harsh.However, when I received my March bill, I knew that something was verywrong. I called the Utility Office and was asked to take a piece of paperand a pen and read the meter myself. To this request I replied that I did notknow how to read the imperial meter and aside from that, it wasn't my job.The lady I talked to was very nice and agreed to send somebody out to do

another reading and also promised to call me back once this was done. Itwas the very next day that I received her call telling me that the new amountowing was now $200.10, a mere difference of $251.90. I only wonder howoften the meter had been misread in the past.

My neighbours on either side have metric meters and I had previouslyasked if I could get one that I would be able to read. The answer to thatconsisted of a flat NO.

The city had pre-authorized withdrawal privileges for 2004/005 whichthey bungled up so badly that I revoked that privilege. I did ask that officeto please send me a paper trail for my records which I never received nordid I get an answer to my request and, of course, one can forget about anapology.

I realize that it is up to your discretion to publish or not to publish myletter. However if you decide to print it I would like to warn my fellow"Kitchenerites" to be extra "vigilant" every time that Utility Bill arrives.

Respectfully,Ingrid E. Merkel

Heading heading heading heading

Letter to the editor

By Dave SchultzCommunications Manager

Grand River Conservation AuthorityAs we enter the second month since the December ice storm,

the Grand River Conservation Authority has been hearing from people wondering why the cleanup is taking so long.

Some have volunteered to help move it along.While the sentiment is admirable, it’s also misguided. It could

actually result in making conditions more dangerous for people entering our properties.

The damage at the GRCA’s conservation areas, rail-trails and natural areas was massive. We have had dozens of our staff, supplemented by several commercial tree services, working almost daily since December to make our properties safe.

It’s critical that we get it right. It’s critical for the safety of our staff doing the work and critical for the safety of the public when we reopen the properties.

As we have said since the storm, the biggest challenge is not the stuff lying on the ground. It’s a fairly straightforward job to chip it and get rid of it.

By far, the bigger threat is above: the broken and damaged branches and trees that are just waiting to fall during the next big wind, or under the weight of the next ice or snow storm.

In the forestry industry these hazards are called “widow makers.” And for good reason.

Do an internet search for “killed by falling branch” and check out the results: a baby in Central Park, a man cleaning up storm debris in Hawaii, a woman strolling through a park in London, a camper in Arizona. In 2004, a 10-year old boy on a school outing was killed by a falling tree at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington.

No volunteer with a hand saw is going to get at those hazards. You need bucket trucks and heavy equipment and, most of all, expert arborists who know how to work in dangerous, high places.

So the GRCA has made a deliberate decision to leave the stuff on the ground, to deter people from entering the properties, until we have had a chance to deal with the dangers overhead. To

reinforce the message, we have posted “No Trespassing” signs.Our concern is that if people see a cleared path, they’re more

likely to enter our parks, natural areas or rail-trails, without realizing the danger above.

We’ve already had cases of do-it-yourselfers trying to clear a rail-trail for snowmobiles. But they didn’t remove the debris from the trail, deal with overhead hazards or cut back branches far enough to provide enough clearance for riders. They left the trail more dangerous than it was before they “helped.”

We wish the cleanup was going faster, too. However, there’s a lot of work to be done, and it can be frustratingly difficult to clear snow-covered trails and park roads to allow the heavy equipment to manoeuver into place. The job is complicated by high winds and bitter cold that slow down even the best equipped crews.

In reality, it would be better to leave some of the non-emergency work until spring, when it can be done more quickly, efficiently and safely.

We have had to set priorities. We have more than 750 rental homes and cottages on our properties so we have been working to secure them. We’re still dealing with branches dangling over homes and power lines. We want to make sure our nature centre properties are safe for school children.

And while we do all of that, we cannot ignore that our first duty – legal and moral -- is to the health and safety of the people doing this hard and complicated work.

Some dismiss this worry, suggesting it’s a mark of a society more concerned about lawsuits than results.

Yes, when you work in natural areas, there are always concerns about risk and liability.

But we need to manage that risk, making it as small as reasonably possible.

That’s why we’re using trained and properly equipped crews to do the work, and that’s why we want to keep others out of these dangerous places until the work is done.

We don’t want to allow a situation where a well-intentioned volunteer, or a hiker enjoying a winter stroll, is seriously injured - or worse - on one of our properties.

Kitchener City Council now has a difficult decision to make.After receiving some very vocal negative feedback on the

proposed 2017 sesquicentennial statue project in Victoria Park, it must decide whether it will forge ahead anyway.

The plan to place 22 life-sized bronze statues of Canada’s Prime Ministers along the path that runs from the clock tower around the Commons area in Kitchener’s Victoria Park is being proposed by a local group, which has already raised $1.1-million towards its $2.2-million cost. They are asking for $300,000 from the city for the statue bases, electrical and landscaping.

Organized by former Kitchener Collegiate Institute principal Jim Rodger and Sandvine CEO Dave Caputo, the art installation project has been endorsed by Governor General of Canada David Johnston, MP Peter Braid, John English, the official biographer of two Prime Ministers, and Kitchener Mayor Carl Zehr.

Rodger was interviewed on CBC radio last week and said he is “perplexed” by the negative response to the project so far. Additional comments from a City of Kitchener online survey that closed February 7 have not yet been released.

People have complained that they don’t agree with all the policies or beliefs of our former leaders and therefore they don’t deserve to be bronzed in Kitchener’s beautiful downtown park. Others have said these leaders don’t represent enough women or minorities.

Those who are against the project are making a lot of noise, while those who are for it, or indifferent to it, don’t seem to be making much noise at all.

If we can’t agree that our prime ministers deserve this kind of

public display, who will we find that we can all agree is worthy? Religious statues are out. Maybe sports figures like Terry Fox or Wayne Gretzky aren’t as controversial, but they don’t seem to tie into the historical feeling of the park that was built in 1896 and named after Queen Victoria, or to the sesquicentennial.

Maybe we should stay away from people altogether and go with another kind of sculpture? Again, this would be an interesting debate. Beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder, as witnessed by that red sausage sculpture sitting in front of the old provincial courthouse on Frederick Street.

History is history, and the prime ministers are the people who led our country. They made decisions that were often reflective of the time in which they lived, and not always popular today. Like them or not, there is no argument that their decisions and their personalities helped shape our country.

One of the proposed features of this display is its educational value for school children. What a teachable moment to look at our prime ministers and to talk about the lack of women and minorities that have led our country, and discuss whether that should change. What a teachable moment to talk about some of the poor decisions or statements made by former leaders, and what we have learned from them. What a teachable moment to talk about good policies made under their leadership, and how they improved our country.

As they say, we learn from history. Not everything needs to be about perfection. Our prime ministers weren’t perfect, and neither are we, but they are our history. With all their quirks and flaws, they deserve to be remembered.

Kitchener council should support Victoria Park statue project


More candidates declare for October election

Solution to Crossword #33

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G L I T T E R

Alex Mustakas, Artistic Director and CEO of Drayton Entertainment, will be the guest of honour at the 27th Annual Mayors’ Dinner.

The popular annual fundraiser, hosted by Kitchener Mayor Carl Zehr and Waterloo Mayor Brenda Halloran, celebrates outstanding contributions to Kitchener-Waterloo, and is a fundraising event for The Working Centre and St. John’s Kitchen.

“Alex embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship, creativity, and genuine passion that makes Kitchener-Waterloo such a desirable place to live, work, and, of course, play,” says Stephanie Mancini, Co-Director of The Working Centre.

“He is the perfect honoree for this year’s fundraiser.”

An icon in Canada’s performing arts industry, Mustakas has donated resources from his charitable arts organization to support the individual fundraising efforts of over 750 charities throughout Ontario, and has personally raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local initiatives by spearheading successful collaborations with the Waterloo Regional Police

Service, United Way of Kitchener-Waterloo, United Way of Perth-Huron, St. John’s Kitchen, Salvation Army, Rotary, and others.

The Working Centre is a non-profit, community-based, volunteer-inspired venture that seeks to give individuals and groups access to tools and opportunities to become involved in the building of community projects in Kitchener-Waterloo and surrounding areas.

Every month, over 10,000 people use Working Centre services and projects ranging from job search support to daily meals, public access computers to transitional housing.

The Mayors’ Dinner will be held Saturday, April 5 at Marshall Hall, Bingeman’s, and will feature emcee Neil Aitchison, guest speakers ,and entertainment by some of the biggest stars of Drayton Entertainment.

Tickets are $100 and include a $55 tax receipt. Groups of 8 are available for $750 with a $390 tax receipt. Tickets for the event are available exclusively through The Working Centre at 519-743-1511 x 119 or online at www.theworkingcentre.org/dinner.

FUNDRAISER FOR THE WORKING CENTRE AND ST. JOHN’S KITCHEN

April 5 Mayors’ Dinner to honour Alex Mustakas

Ward 7 councillor Bil Ioannidis is the latest incumbent to declare his intention to run again in the next municipal election on October 27.

“We have a lot of great things happening in which I’m involved and working on. I want to continue the progress. In particular, advancing film, music and media,” Ioannidis said.

He also said he wants to “Ensure that our city grows efficiently, environment friendly, sustainable and compatible with our existing neighbourhoods. Ensure seniors programming is moving forward, and to build upon creating more jobs.”

Last week newcomer Dan Graham announced his intention to run in Ward 2. Graham would be new to council, but is known in the community. He is the former executive director of the Blues Brews & Barbeques Festival (now known as the TD Kitchener Blues Festival) from 2001 to 2006.

He is the only candidate so far in that ward.

Mayor Carl Zehr announced he will not run again in October, leaving a different Dan, Dan Glenn-Graham, the only declared candidate for mayor.

In Ward 1, incumbent Scott Davey is the only declared candidate.

Incumbent John Gazzola is running again in Ward 3, which he has represented since 2002.

No one has come forward in

Wards 4, 5, and 6.Zyg Janecki said he plans to

file his registration papers for Ward 8. If successful, in the election it would be his second term.

Frank Etherington is also looking for a second term in Ward 9.

At the regional level, incumbent Ken Seiling and local businessman Bob Oberholtzer are in the running for regional chair.

Cameron Dearlove, who is Co-ordinator of the Family Centre, is running to be a regional councillor representing Kitchener. None of the four incumbents have declared if they are running again.

Three people have registered to run to be a trustee on the Waterloo Region District School Board. They include Matthew Ichim, David Kuhn and Natalie Waddell. Four trustees are elected.

No candidates have come forward yet for the Catholic board.

Proposed changes to procedures for city council meetings received strong support during a special council meeting January 13.

A proposal to accelerate publishing standing committee agendas was formally approved in December, while 16 others were approved in principle and referred to the meeting for approval.

The proposals approved include: • The committee chairs will ensure meetings

stay on track, which may mean deferring the matter to the next appropriate meeting date.

• Items for information can only be discussed if a majority of the committee votes to introduce it for discussion.

• Council meetings going later than 11pm will need unanimous consent of council members to extend the meeting by one hour, with proceedings ending no later than midnight.

• Council members will be given five minutes for their initial set of questions, five for a second

set, if required, including a response from the delegation.

• Unregistered delegations wishing to speak to an item not listed on the agenda may appear before council, but council members may not ask them questions.

• Matters that do not fall within the City of Kitchener council’s jurisdiction will be referred to the next available agenda-setting meeting for consideration by committee chairs. If the matter is found to be inappropriate, or outside the council’s jurisdiction, the delegate will be notified with an explanation for refusal.

• If an item is not on the current agenda, staff will refer the delegate to an appropriate meeting so the right staff can attend, and supporting materials have been circulated for council’s consideration.

To see all changes visit www.kitchener.ca and search “efficient meetings.”

Kitchener council supports efficient meeting proposals

Dan Graham


GUEST COLUMNTransportation needs include LRT, expanded bus service and trails

City-Initiated Amendment to the City of Kitchener Official Plan

The City of Kitchener is conducting Planning Around Rapid Transit Stations (the PARTS project). One of the next steps is a proposed amendment to the City of Kitchener’s current Official Plan. In advance of developing new land use and infrastructure plans for areas around future rapid transit stations, the City’s Planning Division is proposing new policies to clarify how development applications will be evaluated in the interim. The proposed policies include using Transit-Oriented Development principles for any new development proposed on land that is within 800 metres, or a 10 minute walk, of the future ION station stops (shown on the map below).

Planning Staff will be hosting an information meeting specifically regarding this proposed Interim Direction and Transit-Oriented Development policies.

Information MeetingWednesday, March 5, 2014

Learning Room, Second Floor, Kitchener City Hall, 200 King Street West

7:00pm - 9:00pm

To view more details on the proposed amendment, the proposed policies, to get involved or request additional information, or to be notified of any report on this matter please contact Tina Malone-Wright directly, or see the following website: www.kitchener.ca/PARTS

Written comments on the proposed changes will be accepted until March 18, 2014 and will be considered in the staff report on this matter.

Tina Malone-Wright 519-741-2200 x 7765 [email protected] Fax: (519) 741-2624TDD\TYY: 1-866-969-9994

I was recently asked at a social gathering why I love local politics. The person was curious to know “why” I do what I do and if, after all these years, I’m still passionate about my work. What surprised me most was not what I answered, but the speed at which I answered.

I answered a resounding “yes”, and went on to explain how much of a privilege I’ve considered it to be to represent your interests at Regional Council. Even with the controversial light rail transit issue (LRT) on the table I’ve enjoyed analyzing all the data presented, and diving deeply into new data as it has become available.

In 2010, when I ran for Regional Council I voiced my concern about the cost and scope of the project, based on the information that I had available at the time. Not unlike many of you, I’ve lived in Kitchener my entire life, and upon first glance the numbers did not seem to justify the solution being presented. As you can imagine, what I now know in 2014 has broadened my appreciation for the complexity of the issue and I have come to understand the importance and necessity of the service over time.

Contrary to popular belief, what’s not up for debate is whether or not we need a new transit solution to accommodate the impending growth of our community. We do. Our region is growing tremendously and will continue to grow. If we don’t take proactive steps now to manage change, this change, quite simply, will manage us. We are at a crossroads in our community, some would say, where the GTA was 35 years ago. We know we can expect another 250,000 residents in the region by 2031. Shouldn’t we learn from other communities’ mistakes? And so, it is not an option of building rapid transit now or building nothing at all. Without ION, 500 km of roadway will be needed to accommodate growth at a cost of approximately $1.4 billion. Building ION reduces this cost by approximately 40% or $500 million.

ION is as much about managing growth and change in our community as it is about providing transportation choice. Every infill project along the line means less development in the suburbs and less congestion. Already there are many projects underway.

When ION begins in 2017, I know that a large part its success will be dependent upon how

successful regional government is in making public transit an attractive transportation option for all residents. This is why one of my ongoing priorities has focused on finding new ways to encourage residents to get out of their cars and try Grand River Transit (GRT).

Many non-transit users may not be aware of the convenient and direct bus routes, like the new 202 iXpress, that GRT offers. GRT buses are accessible, comfortable and offer bike racks so passengers can combine cycling with public transit.

There is definitely work to be done in order to make the case for public transit to a wider audience, however, in terms of building ridership, there’s no doubt we’re already seeing some positive results.

The projected year one daily ridership of ION LRT is 25,000. Today, Route 7 and iXpress (which run between Fairview Park Mall and Conestoga Mall) already carry about 20,000 rides per day. Of course, we want to see this ridership trend continue. So, how do we go about making public transit an attractive option for those who don’t currently consider it?

One way is to make it as convenient and efficient as possible. That means introducing new iXpress routes, adding local service and increasing frequency in established Kitchener neighbourhoods.

ION is much more than the “mall-to-mall train” that some critics of LRT refer to it as. ION will stop at major destinations, employers, post-secondary schools, and neighbourhoods throughout Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo.

Another way is to reduce our carbon footprint. On a consistent basis, we generate 4 ½ Megawatts of power at the Regional landfill site from methane gas. We sell that and send it to the grid – enough to power 2,500 homes. This is

green power at its best. ION will be powered by electricity as well – no diesel fumes from buses that could have been running up and down the line.

It’s my belief that a rapid transit system, combined with expanded GRT service and walking and cycling trails, balances our transportation needs and provides better choice for all Waterloo Region residents. I know that not everyone is going to give up their cars in favour of public transit. That’s why the Regional Transportation

Master Plan also includes strategic improvements to roads in addition to ION and improvements to GRT, walking and cycling trails. My hope, however, is that by offering attractive transit choices, people will begin to consider GRT buses, and soon ION trains, as convenient options to get them to where they need to go.

I’m always interested in hearing from residents on transportation and other regional issues. I’m grateful to be in a position to have your

voice heard and I feel even more passionate about local issues today, than I did 26 years ago when I was first elected to serve you.

What a wonderful realization. Please send me your thoughts

at [email protected].

For more information on ION and the future of transportation in Waterloo Region, please visit the Region of Waterloo rapid transit website at www.regionofwaterloo.ca/rapidtransit.

Geoff Lorentz

by Carrie DebroneWhen you are in prison,

staying healthy physically and mentally is tough – but it’s a challenge that must be overcome if prisoners are to be successfully integrated back into society.

The challenges were addressed by presenters at the 5th annual Forum for Federally Sentenced Women, held January 30 at Conestoga College.

Hosted by the Grand Valley Institution for Women and the students from the college’s Community and Criminal Justice Degree Program, this year’s forum theme was the role recreation, leisure and wellness activities play for women in prison and following their release back into society.

Keynote speaker Dr. Darla Fortune, from the University of Waterloo’s Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, who has researched the role of leisure activities in the lives of people released from prison, told the 175 people who attended the forum that meaningful leisure involves freedom of choice, and is an expression of humanity helping to define who we are and who we become.

Giving an overview of how important recreation and leisure activities are, she said positive

leisure experiences “allow our gifts to become visible” and often bring out people’s hidden talents.

They provide an opportunity for friendship and support, build relationships, create a sense of belonging, and can be a buffer against stress.

However, she warned that some leisure activities can become addictive, or be tied to harmful restrictive policies that stigmatize or assert social control over participants.

“Sometimes they can create stress because although people want to participate in them, they may not have the time or money to allow it.”

“For people coming out of prison they worry about the dangers of having too much free time,” Fortune said.

“I was once told by a prisoner that she didn’t want any leisure time. She said, ‘That’s when I get into trouble.’”

Fortune said the high cost of participation in leisure sports and recreation programs may limit involvement and if former prisoners apply to fee reduction programs, they often fear they will have to suffer the embarrassment of telling organizers that they were in jail.

”They have a fear of fitting in and not feeling part of the community, especially if they have just moved to a new

community in order to get away from the people who they were friends with when they got into trouble,” she said.

“Leisure and recreation programs can and should play a major role in the rehabilitation of women in prison, but what does it take to make this a reality?” she asked.

Noting that not one photo of a leisure or recreational program was included in a photography project undertaken at the prison to show places or situations

where the women felt most comfortable, she suggested programs could be redesigned to be more inclusive and suggested the prison offer a large number of varied programs allowing prisoners to explore their interests.

“Free time is more difficult to do than to work,” she said, adding, “ We don’t all automatically know how to make the best use of our leisure time.”

As a panel of four current and former prisoners from the Grand Valley Institution for Women in Kitchener told their personal stories, the same message emerged -- there is a lot of work to do if society wants to improve the health of prisoners.

GVI is mandated by the federal government to provide leisure and recreation programs, both for prisoners and for those who are released from prison but are still under sentencing restrictions.

Currently, GVI runs many sports and recreation programs including arts, crafts, exercise classes, sports teams, computers, book club and knitting. Most of its leisure and recreation programs are led by its hundreds of volunteers.

Anastasia Samms said she used to participate in sports before she went to prison, but found there were few sports team opportunities once inside. She said the prison does have gym equipment, but it is often difficult to book time on what little equipment there is, and that she found it difficult to “switch gears” to using fitness equipment instead of playing a team sport in order to get physical exercise.

“I became less motivated to exercise and felt there was a void in my life.”

When Samms had the opportunity to help plan a recreational sports program at GVI, she jumped on it.

She helped organize some sports teams and began to participate again.

“I felt light and refreshed. It sharpened my skills both mental and physical,” she said, but said the teams may not have happened if she wasn’t committed to creating them.

Jayde Gordon-Cummins said it is tough to get access to the prison’s seven exercise machines, explaining that access is limited to four hours a day and prisoners must sign up for a time slot.

“Some women hog the machines and people don’t want to step on their toes and create a problem between those women and themselves,” she said.

“Only about 49 of the prison’s 160 people who want on the machines every day can use them,” Gordon-Cummins said, adding that a half-hour time slot does not give enough time for a good workout. The lack of physical exercise contributes to an overweight, depressed prison community.

She said the prison used to have Zumba and Yoga programs each week, but that there are no volunteers currently willing to run them.

“One shocking quote that I’ve heard is that if the women can’t work out they will just do drugs until they do lose weight,” she said.

She said that many of the women in the prison also don’t know how to cook and so do not eat healthy food, also leading to poor health.

“Establishing healthy habits would help the women in the long run.”

Candace Pitvor, released from GVI two years ago, said the hours she spent in the gym while incarcerated helped her connect with others in a positive way and alleviated boredom and stress.

She also said that she used to walk on the prison’s track every morning, and enjoyed seeing the groundhogs in the adjoining field. Walking time allowed on the track has since been limited.

“Most people gain weight because of unhealthy eating in prison. They are vulnerable when they are released and they don’t have money for leisure activities – they don’t even have bus money,” she said.

l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l February13, 2014

5TH ANNUAL FORUM FOR FEDERALLY SENTENCED WOMENBeing healthy an uphill battle for women in prison and after release

Dr. Darla Fortune, from the University of Waterloo’s Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, who has researched the role of leisure activities in the lives of people released from prison, was the keynote speaker at the 5th annual Forum for Federally Sentenced Women held January 30 at Conestoga College.

...continued on next page


by Carrie DebroneHearing the challenges to stay or become healthy faced

by women in prison hit home with the founders of the local gym Xtreme Bootcamp in Kitchener, who have offered to deliver a year-long program to help Grand Valley Institution for Women inmates.

Xtreme Bootcamp Inc. founders, Sandra Leelook and Shauna Judar were two of about 175 people who attended the 5th annual Forum for Federally Sentenced Women, held January 30 at Conestoga College.

Hosted by the Grand Valley Institution for Women and the students from the college’s Community and Criminal Justice Degree Program, this year’s forum theme was the role recreation, leisure and wellness activities play for women in prison and following their release back into society.

Jessica Hutchison, Community Engagement Coordinator for the Waterloo Region Crime Prevention Council, said Leelook and Judar approached her immediately following the forum offering to help provide fitness and health programs to the women in prison.

Xtreme Bootcamp, founded in September 2010, is an athletic centre offering fitness and nutrition training, and promotes healthy living to Canadians.

“As a total health and fitness centre, XBC strives to encourage active and healthy lifestyles. We are dedicated to changing people’s lives through proper guidance in fitness and nutrition. Just like many other women in society, the women of GVI deserve the support and guidance in learning how to adjust their lifestyle so that they can live healthy and fulfilling lives,” said Xtreme Bootcamp co-owner Judar.

Xtreme Bootcamp will offer eight-week sessions focused on exercise and nutrition in the prison. The two-hour sessions will be offered once a week throughout the year.

The offer is just one example of how the community has become engaged in finding solutions to issues faced by prisoners that have been highlighted at the popular annual community forums.

Past year’s forums have focused on employment, housing, mental health, and the new minimum-security unit being constructed at the prison.

Hutchison said the employment forum has also sparked an entrepreneurship course offered through the Accelerator Centre, where business leaders in the community donate their time and expertise to teach the women in GVI how to start and run their own businesses. To date, almost 70 women have completed this program.

She said the forums were also the catalyst for many local businesses and agencies that now provide women prisoners with opportunities to work in the community during the day and return to prison at night under work releases.

The Sexual Assault Support Centre of KW also came forward offering individual counselling to women in GVI at its centre. The women travel to the centre for counselling using a temporary absence pass from the prison.

“At each forum, attendees indicate their willingness to volunteer at GVI in some capacity, either through Chaplaincy, as a driving escort or through the Stride program at Community Justice Initiatives,” said Hutchison.

Local gym to offer fitness and health program for Grand Valley prisoners

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“Not eating right, being depressed, being restricted from physical exercise can cause a downward spiral,” said Lynda Drosi, who is serving the last of a 12-year sentence.

She said it is tough to make the right choices in life but that not being healthy in mind, body and spirit just makes prison life and life after prison more of a hardship for people who already face extreme challenges.

She said that in her experience, medical staff at the prison offer pills to help women instead of finding natural ways to solve their health problems.

Noting that if women had more help to learn to become and stay healthy while they are in prison, it would benefit everyone.

“It costs $233,000 a year to keep one prisoner at GVI. A woman coming back to prison is expensive,” she said.

Grand Valley forum...from previous page


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What is your ideal city?Calling all future leaders, decision makers and visionaries - between the ages of 10 and 12 years old!We want to know what makes a city great place to live, tell Mayor Zehr and members of council (in 250 words or less) howyou would shape Kitchener for the future. Winners will participate in a live, televised council meeting on April 28, 2014 to debate a community-related topic and receive a tour of city hall! As well, your essay will be printed in an upcoming issue of the Kitchener Citizen.

Essays are due by March 28, 2014 and can be emailed to [email protected] or dropped off at the Office of the Mayor and Council in City Hall (after business hours, please drop off at security desk.) A total of 11 essays will be chosen. All entries are the property of the City of Kitchener. Only the winning names and ages will be published. For more information, call 519-741-2300.

Ideal City Ad_Layout 1 14-01-10 1:12 PM Page 1

by Janet baine

Canadian Heritage River designation of the Grand River 20 years ago was a major coup in many

ways.The Grand River was the first nonwilderness river to

be designated. It was also the first to have its tributaries integrated within its designation, taking a more integrated approach to heritage designation.

Acceptance of the Grand into the Canadian Heritage River System broke new ground.

“The real coup was to convince the ‘powers that be’ to designate the Grand River, because it was a departure from all the other designated rivers to that point,” explains Bryan Howard, who worked for the Ministry of Natural Resources and was cochair of the Grand Strategy in 1994, and is now retired. “There was a broadening of the scope that paved the way for other nonwilderness rivers in southern Ontario, such as the Thames, Humber and the Detroit rivers to be designated.”

Nomination was a lengthy process that began in 1987 when watershed municipalities approached the GRCA and asked it to spearhead heritage river designation. The Grand was nominated February 20, 1990, when Lyn McLeod, then Ontario’s Minister of Natural Resources, signed the carefully prepared nomination document.

There was a great deal of input from committees and hundreds of members of the public all along the way.

The Grand was designated on January 18, 1994 and the first Grand River plaque was unveiled September 26 of that year with great fanfare. The Grand was the 15th river to be designated by the Canadian Heritage Rivers Board, which has representatives appointed for each province and territory.

The decision was made when the board met at the historic Langdon Hall in Cambridge, where they were presented with a management plan called The Grand Strategy. The strategy provided a plan for the future and a look forward 25 years, to 2019.

It was developed through a collaborative process involving more than 200 representatives of community groups, businesses, educational institutions, municipalities, federal and provincial agencies, First Nations and the GRCA.

“It was regarded as a pivotal change for the Canadian Heritage River System (CHRS) to embrace the Grand River into the system, because it was a working river,” Howard says.

The GRCA’s lead in this process was Grand Strategy co-chair Barbara Veale, who dedicated many years to bringing about the river designation. During the two decades since, she has helped to keep the river designation on the front burner locally, nationally and internationally. She recently left the GRCA and now works for Conservation Halton, but she continues her interest in heritage designation of the Grand.

Stumbling Block The stumbling block for designation of the Grand River

was that it did not meet the criteria to be considered for its natural heritage. For this reason Veale, Howard and a legion of other people worked extra hard to bring about the nomination and designation based on the two other

areas of nomination: cultural features and recreational opportunities.

The Grand nomination document included the major tributaries in the designation — the Nith, Conestogo, Speed and Eramosa rivers. Howard believes that including these rivers strengthened the case to designate the Grand River. It also brought the concept of integrated watershed management into the Heritage River nomination process.

By 1999, Heritage River plaques had been unveiled on all the rivers to denote their designation and acknowledge that a river is part of a system.

The only river in the CHRS that has more kilometres of designated waterways than the Grand is the Fraser River, as the entire 1,375-km river has been designated.

In contrast, many Canadian Heritage Rivers have sections that have been designated, such as 48 km of the Yukon River known as “The Thirty Mile,” which was part of the Klondike Gold Rush. The Yukon itself is nearly 3,200 km long.

Where Are We Now “One of the biggest values of the Heritage River

designation was to raise the profile of the river in the communities up and down the rivers,” says Veale. “Many neat things have come out of it, including books about the river, poetry and art festivals, to name a few. All of those increase awareness of the rivers again. It has really helped to have people notice the river, because before the designation, we turned our back on the river.”

For a few decades, parents warned their children to stay away from the river, as it was dirty, and communities dumped their garbage along the riverbanks. Great effort was put into cleaning these areas up and making waterways a place that people wanted to visit and to improve even more.

Dozens of businesses and organizations are named after the Grand River and its tributaries. Some have changed their name to incorporate “grand,” such as Grand River Hospital (in 1995), Grand River Transit (in 2000) and the Grand Philharmonic Choir (2006). Companies in all lines of business, from beer to insulation to dance, are named for the Grand River, so the river is much more than a source of water to the communities that it flows through, especially since the designation.

The Grand Strategy was created to direct change within the Grand River watershed, and it worked in partnership with other programs. These include the Grand River Fish Management Plan (completed in 1998), the Grand River Forest Plan (completed in 2004) and the Grand River Water Management Plan that is being finalized this year. In fact, a goal for the CHRS is that all designated rivers have management plans. In addition, annual monitoring takes place after designation, and the GRCA will be preparing a 20-year monitoring report to outline the changes that have taken place since designation.

There are now 38 Canadian Heritage Rivers and three more that have been nominated for designation. The CHRS now places less focus on designating new rivers and more on supporting the rivers that have already been designated.

Janet Baine is a Communication Specialist with the Grand River Conservation Authority.

Grand River broke the mold for Heritage River System

Photo by Helen Hall

February 13, 2014 l Kitchener Citizen -West Edition l

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PLENTY OF POTATOESThe Kitchener Aud filled up with potatoes as Ranger fans dropped off bags of spuds to kick off the House of Friendship’s monthlong February Potato Blitz at Don Cameron Potato Night during the February 13 Ranger’s game against the Oshawa Generals. The event also marked a milestone - The House of Friendships 75th year of service to the community. Each year the House of Friendship uses over 300,000 pounds of potatoes in its emergency food hampers and meals assisting people in its 18 programs. On Saturday, February 22, shoppers in the KW area can also “join in the game” and participate in the Super Market Blitz, 9 am – 3 pm, at 26 participating supermarket locations where volunteers will be available to collect potatoes and cash donations. The House of Friendship also invites everyone to its Community Potato Lunch, Friday February 28, 12pm -1 pm at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, Kitchener. There is no cost for lunch, but donations will be gratefully accepted. From left: front, Don Cameron, voice of the Rangers, John Neufeld, Executive Director of House Of Friendship, back, players, Justin Bailey and Matia Marcantuoni, and a cardboard portrait of House of Friendship’s Founding Director, Joseph Cramer, cut a cake marking HOF’s 75th year of service.

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While they rely mostly on contributions from individuals, businesses and foundations to fund KidSport, volunteers with the chapter sold glow sticks and raised $1,600 at the Canada Day celebrations at Columbia Lake in Waterloo last July to help build up their coffer.

New KidSport Chapter makes sure that allKitchener-Waterloo kids can afford to play

by Helen HallWhen John Cooper retired as the City of

Kitchener’s Co-ordinator of Athletics over two years ago, he didn’t walk away from sports.

Cooper has continued to volunteer and in June 2013 helped start a chapter of KidSport for Kitchener-Waterloo, an organization that provides funding for children who can’t afford the cost of minor sports registration fees and equipment.

“We know there is a huge demand,” said Cooper. “We foresee helping up to 200 kids in a year.”

Cooper has been a long-time volunteer on the Kitchener-Waterloo Sports Council, which provides coaching certification courses and training sessions for athletes, their parents and coaches. The group had always felt there was a need for a local KidSport chapter and he is currently the chair.

After months of considering policies and approving a bylaw, the KW Sports Council established the local KidSport in June and started fundraising on July 1st at the University of Waterloo Canada Day celebration, raising $1,600. All money raised stays in the community.

The KidSport chapter is made up of 20 volunteers. Since last August they have raised $14,000, and between August and December awarded $8375 in grants to 38 children participating in two types of dance

and nine different sports at various levels from instructional through to competitive.

Grants of up to $500 annually are awarded to pay for registration fees and equipment for each eligible child.

Cooper said they receive applications every week and anticipate the group will need about $25,000 annually to invest in local children.

They have met with local sport and social agencies and set up an application process where parents can fill out the registration forms and leave them with the sport or dance organization. If they are approved, the money goes directly to the sporting group to pay the frees.

They also receive referrals for eligible families through Big Brothers/Big Sisters Waterloo Region, City of Kitchener, City of Waterloo,Family & Children Services Waterloo, House of Friendship, KW Counselling Services, Lutherwood, Our Place, Reaching Our Outdoor Friends (ROOF) and Region of Waterloo Social Services.

KidSport relies on donations from individuals, businesses and foundations and has already received donations from Kitchener Conestoga Rotary Club, the KW Community Foundation and Ontario Secondary Schools Teacher’s Federation Local 24.

For more information call the chapter at 519-772-4399 ext. 7 or email them at [email protected]. You can also visit its website at www.kidsportcanada.ca.


by Carrie Debrone

Six local amateur musi-cians, all members of

the Jammin’ 101 program at the Stanley Park Community Centre in Kitchener, will be playing live music March 1 from 12 noon to 1pm at the A.R Kaufman Family YMCA to help raise money during the Cambridge and K-W YMCA’s first Megathon.

The fundraiser asks people to get active, take on a new challenge and raise pledges to help get kids healthy and active at their local YMCA.

About 93 per cent of Canadian children aren’t getting enough physical activity, and one in four of all children currently registered in YMCA programs require financial assistance to participate.

The local musicians -- four acoustic guitarists, a bass guitarist and a slide guitarist--- will join hundreds of people who are collecting pledges to help raise the $200 per child needed to give them the opportunity to participate in physical activities at the YMCA, and hopes enough money will be raised to open its doors to 1,000 children who

need financial support in 2014.While most fundraisers

are collecting pledges for a physical challenge they will be taking on, like a five-hour fitness class or family triathlon, the six musician’s decision to play live music to raise money is unique.

Michael Henderson, who started the Jammin’ 101 program at the Stanley Park Community Centre in 2005, said he is looking forward to the event, and each of the musicians is happy to be doing something to help the kids.

The other members of the group are Susan Koswan, Brian Madill, Greg Wilson, Peter Pyne and Mark Ledenbauer. During a practice session February 3 the group chose about 15 songs it will play in the café at the A.R. Kaufman Family Y on March 1.

Henderson, who works out regularly at the local YMCA, said he got the idea to raise money for the athletic centre before he knew about the Megathon campaign, and approached the Y’s general manager about it.

“She suggested we raise money using pledges and

suggested we could be part of the Megathon fundraiser they have organized,” Henderson said.

Alicia Becker, the YMCA Director of Annual Giving, said she is grateful for the

willingness of the musicians to share their passion.

“Megathon is an opportunity for people to do what they love to do to help us raise money. Music is one of the things that Michael knows and loves.

Because of the nature of the event we are able to offer the option to participate in various ways,” Becker said.

For more information on the Megathon visit www.ymcamegathon.ca

LOCAL YMCA’S FIRST MEGATHON FUNDRAISER MARCH 1

Local musicians help raise money for the YMCA

Local musicians, members of the Jammin’101 program at the Stanley Park Community Centre, will perform March 1, from 12 noon to 1pm at the A.R. Kaufman Family Y to raise money to help children who require financial assistance to participate in physical activities at the local YMCAs. From left: front, musicians Susan Koswan, Mark Ledenbauer, Greg Wilson, back, Michael Henderson, Brian Madill, Peter Pyne.


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Politicians at the provincial and federal levels are usually busy battling each other and their parties at every chance they get.

But the Kitchener-Waterloo riding’s Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal presentation has apparently brought out the cooperative spirit.

In a rare showing that politicians can cooperate and work with each other, Liberal MPP of Kitchener Centre John Milloy, former Conservative MPP of Kitchener Waterloo Elizabeth Witmer and newly elected New Democrat MPP of Kitchener Waterloo Catherine Fife, will all be present at the medal presentation ceremony for the Kitchener Waterloo riding recipients to be held January 16 at Kitchener City Hall.

Milloy was asked to give out the medals on behalf of Elizabeth Witmer after she left provincial politics. He decided instead to wait until after the by-election, allowing the opportunity to whom ever was elected to present the medals in their own riding.

The commemorative medal, created to mark the 2012 celebration of the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the Throne as Queen of Canada, is in recognition of those who, like Her Majesty, have dedicated themselves to

service to their fellow citizens, their community and their country.

Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medals will be presented January 16 to the following Kitchener-Waterloo riding recipients:

Chandrika AnjariaChandrika Anjaria has been

a tireless volunteer within the community. The focus of her community work has been empathy and compassion for others. An employee for the University of Waterloo’s Information Systems and Technology Department, Chandrika also served as past chair of UW’s United Way Campaign. She has also presided as co-chair of three local hospital walkathons, and is the chair of the Earthquakes, Cyclone and Tsunami relief fund. Chandrika is a member of the India Canada Association, past chair of several cultural festivals and a founding member of Club 55. In 1997, Chandrika was honoured as one of Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest’s Women of the Year.

Ariarani AriaratnamAriarani is the founder and

former Executive Director of Focus for Ethnic Women in KW. Active in supporting women and children, Ariarani served the KW YWCA locally and internationally. She has also served on the Immigration

and Refugee Board of Canada. Ariarani is passionate in helping newcomers understand, integrate and become fully active members of our community. She is a member of the board of the South Asian Seniors Association of Waterloo Region. A recipient of the Citation for Citizenship Award from the Government of Canada, Ariarani also received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002 for her outstanding work in promoting the rights of immigrant and visible minority women.

Ronald BeaudreauRonald Beaudreau served as an

Air Cadet, Leading Aircraftman in the reserve Air Force and as a Radar Operator in the regular service. He is a member and past president of the 404 K-W Wing RCAFA of the Air-Force Association of Canada. He also assisted in starting the Out of the Cold program in Kitchener-Waterloo and has been a youth counsellor for boys aged 6-18 for the past 45 years.

Marjorie Carroll-NelsonMarjorie Carroll-Nelson was

elected the first female Mayor of Waterloo in 1977, and remained in this role until 1988. As a nurse and as a public servant, she was an outstanding choice to chair the K-W Hospital Foundation from 1989-1992. A devoted volunteer and fundraiser, Marjorie’s efforts resulted in a remodelled childbirth centre at Grand River Hospital, renamed the Marjorie Carroll Childbirth Centre in her honour.

Connie DeckertConnie Deckert successfully

ran Motivair Canada Ltd., a local auto company for 35 years. The company was sold in 2008 and she changed careers. Connie is now a member of the LPGA Teaching and Club Professionals, as well as the Canadian Golf Teachers Federation. She is a member of the Canadian Association of Women Executives & Entrepreneurs. Connie is also a recipient of the Women Of Waterloo Region (WOW) Award, as well as a graduate of Leadership Waterloo Region. She is a member of the Kitchener-Waterloo Chapter of Zonta International and the K-W Business Women’s Association. She is a board member of the KW Symphony and Executive Women’s Golf Association.

Jim ErbJim Erb has been associated with

Erb and Good Family Funeral Home for 43 years. He is known for his commitment to serving Waterloo as a city councillor from 1980-1988, and is remembered as getting the most votes of any Waterloo candidate in three consecutive municipal elections. Jim has been a member of the Kitchener Conestoga Rotary Club for 28 years where he has chaired their annual Turkey Drive in support of House of Friendship. Jim has served on the board of directors of Kitchener-Waterloo Community Foundation, KidsAbility Foundation, Shalom Counselling Services and is a past President of Kitchener Waterloo Council of Churches. He was a founding member of Habitat for Humanity, the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery, founding Chair of the Wellesley Apple Butter and Cheese Festival, past chair of the

Ontario Board of Services and was recognized at the Mayor’s Dinner for the Working Centre in 2011. He is a member of Erb Street Mennonite Church in Waterloo and has been active in various inter-faith initiatives in the community

David GrahamIn his contributions to our

community, David Graham has worked diligently as a past Chair of the Board at St. Mary’s General Hospital, the 1990 Ontario Summer Games, Leadership Waterloo Region, K-W United Way, Rotary Club of Kitchener, and the Canadian Red Cross K-W Branch. Currently, David serves on the boards of the St. Joseph’s Health System. In recognition of his service, David was awarded the K-W Citizen of the Year in 1990, the Waterloo Award, the Canada 125th Anniversary medal and the Queen Elizabeth Silver and Golden Jubilee Medals.

Owen LackenbauerOwen Lackenbauer began his

career of service to the community by enlisting in the Canadian Army, serving from 1953-1965 and in the Army Reserve from 1972-1985. In 1969, he co-founded KW’s Oktoberfest which continues to thrive to this day. As a past President of Kitchener Oktoberfest, Lions Club, K-W Untied Way, Kitchener Chamber of Commerce, K-W Community Foundation, and Westmount Golf & Country Club, 1979 K-W Citizen of the Year, and a Paul Harris Fellow (Rotary International in 1995), Owen’s contributions to our community have been profound. He is past Honorary Colonel of the Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada, Waterloo Region’s reserve infantry regiment.

John LynchJohn Lynch, a long-time

Rotarian, was 1981-1982 President of the Rotary Club of Waterloo and is a Paul Harris Fellow. His contributing involvement with KidsAbility spans over three decades. He was President 1991-1993 during the raising of $8 million for construction of the current treatment centre. From 1996-2002, he was President of KidsAbility Foundation, which currently raises in excess of $1 million dollars annually. He helped bring the 1986 Brier Canadian Men’s Curling Championship to Kitchener-Waterloo. He was also treasurer for Campaign K-W, which raised $27 million for expanded services at Grand River Hospital. A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario, he isa retired partner of KPMG, where he initiated the writing of Roots: History of KPMG in Waterloo Region. In 2011, he received the Waterloo Award, the City of Waterloo’s highest civic honour.

Joan McKinnonJoan McKinnon spent twelve

years in public service as City of Waterloo and Region of Waterloo Councillor and Mayor of Waterloo from 1997-2000. She was the founding Chair of Community Safety and Crime Prevention Council and a member of such Boards as Wilfrid Laurier University, University of Waterloo and the AGO. Joan

has demonstrated a lifetime of community service through her involvement volunteering with the Girl Guides of Canada, summer camp for disabled children, the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery, the K-W Symphony, the Grand River Conservation Authority and St. Mary’s Hospital. In 1985 she was named Oktoberfest Woman of the Year and she has also received the Ontario Volunteer Service Award for her outstanding work in the Region.

George SimGeorge Sim’s faith, his loyal

dedication to his friends and family, his caring heart and his delight in storytelling are an inspiration. During the Second World War, George was a member of the Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers, serving the Ontario Tank Regiment, Oshawa in Europe. His experience during the war inspired him to become ordained in the United Church, and to serve as a Chaplin for the Waterloo Legion for 40 years. George has devoted his life to serving his fellow veterans; listening to their stories and helping to heal their suffering. A kind soul, George is known to offer a hug and story to all and enjoys playing the harmonica.

Rosemary SmithRosemary Smith is a visionary

leader in our community who has served as mentor to many. Since 2001, Rosemary has been the CEO of the Kitchener-Waterloo Community Foundation. She has also had leadership roles with many organizations, such as Chair of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce and has served on many boards such as the K-W YWCA, K-W Big Brothers, and the Prosperity Council of Waterloo Region Resources Task Force. Rosemary has also been a member of the United Way, Cambridge Women in Networking, K-W Women in Networking, Leadership Waterloo Region, Zonta Club of Kitchener-Waterloo, Waterloo Region Immigrant Employment Network and Opportunities Waterloo Region. Rosemary has also had the honour of being recognized as a Woman of Distinction in the area of business by the Cambridge YWCA and named as Kitchener-Waterloo’s Citizen of the Year for 2009.

Lynne WoolstencroftSince moving to Waterloo in

1970 Lynne Woolstencroft’s belief in community-building expressed itself in public service and involvement in many organizations. She held elected positions (City of Waterloo Councillor, Region of Waterloo Councillor, Mayor of Waterloo, Waterloo County Board of Education school trustee, with three years as Chair). She served on numerous boards (K-W Social Planning Council, Waterloo Public Library, Grand River Conservation Authority, and Waterloo Regional Police Service).

She was President of the Association of Large School Boards in Ontario. Her commitment to the environment led Waterloo to receive numerous awards, including the Greenest City in Ontario from TVO.

Page 6 l Kitchener Citizen - West Edition l January 17, 2013

MPPs from three parties work together to hand out Jubilee medals in KW riding

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Across 1 You might end up there (8)

5 Musical works (6)

9 The art of government (8)

10 Canadian writer Margaret (6)

12 Come after (5)

13 Basic principal to which all people are accountable (4,2,3)

14 Cuddly creatures at Toronto Zoo (6)

16 Disinclined to do a job (4-3)

19 Go in again (2-5)

21 Son of a sovereign (6)

23 Compel to eat (5-4)

25 Dubious doctor (sounding like Donald) (5)

26 Subtly sarcastic (6)

27 Light bulb part (8)

28 Glacial period (3,3)

29 Sparkling (8)

Down 1 British bobby by another

nickname (6)

2 Soda fountain drink (9)

3 Sir or Madam (5)

4 They're set and broken (7)

6 Jar of mixed flower petals and spices (9)

7 Ruin (5)

8 Crabwise (8)

11 Farm implement (4)

15 Acting indecisively (9)

17 Baptism for example (9)

18 It's written on the wall (8)

20 Snorkelling site (4)

21 Expense account no-no (7)

22 Hockey player for example (6)

24 French wine region (5)

25 Sort of, but not quite (5)

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The Region of Waterloo will launch a revised package of four Historic Countryside Tours at the Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation’s 2014 showcase at Fairview Mall in Kitchener on Saturday, February 15.

First published in 2006, the tours have been updated

and redesigned to include a variety of new historic and scenic attractions along routes in the Townships of North Dumfries, Woolwich, Wilmot and Wellesley.

Regional councillor Jean Haalboom will make a presentation about the revised tours at 11am in front of the Heritage Planning Advisory Committee (HPAC) booth.

The tours are a resource for cyclists, hikers, daytrippers, heritage enthusiasts, local residents and visitors to the region. They take approximately two to three

hours to drive and include stops at heritage buildings, bridges, landmarks, parks, scenic roads, trails, and more.

A complimentary online mapping application is available on the region’s website, and the tours are customizable and available for both handheld and tablet devices.

The Heritage Showcase is a free event designed to educate people about the history of Waterloo region. The theme for 2014 is Having Fun with Heritage: Historic Places Made for Play. The showcase runs from 9am to 5pm.

2014 HERITAGE SHOWCASE AT FAIRVIEW MALLUpdated countryside tours to launch February 15

The process for renewing an Ontario drivers’ license for seniors is being simplified.

Starting April 21, 2014, drivers aged 80 and over will no longer have to complete a written knowledge test.

Instead, they will participate in a shorter, simpler renewal program that includes a vision test, a driver record review, an improved, in-class group education session, and two short, in-class screening exercises.

The new screening exercises are simple, non-computerized tasks that help identify drivers who may need further assessment, such as a road test or medical review.

Samples of both exercises are available online at www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/driver/senior-driver-renewal-program.shtml

Changes to Driver’s License Renewal for Seniors


HEALTH & LifestyleTen ways to do something about cancerWorld Cancer Day was held on

February 4. It aims to dispel myths about cancer, including: “There is nothing I can do about cancer.” The truth is that there is a lot that can be done at an individual, community and policy level.

“People often feel powerless when it comes to cancer, and that’s why we encourage Canadians to take control and empower themselves with information,” says Rowena Pinto, Vice President, Public Affairs, Canadian Cancer Society, Ontario Division. “There is much that we can do each and every day about cancer and we can do this both individually and collectively.”

1. Live wellAbout half of all cancers can be

prevented by eating well, being active and maintaining a healthy body weight and not smoking. Reduce your risk of skin cancer by protecting yourself from excessive sun exposure and don’t use indoor tanning.

2. Don’t smokeSmoking is responsible for more than

85% of lung cancer cases in Canada. Our Smokers’ Helpline is a free, confidential service for smokers. Call if you want to quit, are thinking about quitting or have stopped smoking and need support: 1-877-513-5333.

3. Get checkedWhen cancer is found early, it’s often

easier to treat. If you’re in a certain age or population group, you can have screening tests that help find breast, cervical and colorectal cancer before you’ve even noticed symptoms.

4. Know your family historyApproximately 5 to 10% of cancers

are related to family genetics. It is important to discuss screening with your doctor if you have a family history of cancer.

5. Be awareKnow if you’re being exposed to

cancer-causing substances in the workplace, your home and in your community so that you can make informed decisions about your health.

6. Raise fundsVolunteering to raise funds or

participating in a fundraising event is critical to helping prevent cancer, save lives and support people living with cancer. Without funds, we wouldn’t be able to make the impact that we do in communities across Canada.

7. GiveMake a donation, support an event

participant or buy a lottery ticket. It’s easy. Find out more at cancer.ca.

8. Take actionChanging public policy is one of

the most effective tools for preventing cancer and helping those living with and beyond cancer. Visit takeaction.cancer.ca to learn how you can advocate for healthy public policies in Ontario.

9. Get involvedVolunteering is an opportunity for

you to make a positive impact in your community, be part of a team, share your experience, learn new skills and develop lasting friendships. The Canadian Cancer Society offers a variety of ways for you to help, from driving patients to providing peer support to youth advocacy.

10. ConnectIf you know someone coping with

cancer, we can help. Refer them to the Canadian Cancer Society for information and support services that will help them on their cancer journey. Tell them about our CancerConnection.ca online community. Contact us toll-free at 1-888-939-3333 (TTY 1-886-786-3934) or [email protected].

WINTER WONDERLANDWe might be tired of all the snow, but these two huskies in the leash free dog area at McLennan Park in Kitchener found the conditions perfect. The leash free park is open daily. All dogs must have up to date rabies and dog license tags.

The leading cause of blindness in older people is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which results in the loss of central vision and the ability to see fine details. AMD is primarily triggered by a lifetime of free-radical damage, so the best way to protect your eyes is to make sure they have an abundant supply of targeted antioxidants.

Cataracts are another common problem associated with aging. More than half of all North Americans in their 80s either have cataracts or have had surgery to replace the clowuded lens. Not surprisingly, the same nutrients that protect against AMD have also been shown to help stave off cataracts.

NEW Vision Essentials with lutein, beta-carotene, ginkgo biloba, lycopene, black currant and 10 other nutrients helps reduce the risk of developing cataracts and helps to maintain eyesight in conditions such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Do you want to maintain your

eyesight?

find us on

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ONLY at local Health Food Stores and Select Natural Pharmacies

Protect yourself against cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.


notes from city hall

Office: 519-741-2784 Residence: 519-498-9056 [email protected]: www.scottdavey.info

As Kitchener’s finance chair,I’d like to detail my pride in

staff and council for bringing what Ibelieve to be the best budget thus

far in our term. You probably haven’theard or read much about the 2013budget because, to be frank,“KITCHENER DELIVERSRESPONSIBLE BUDGET” isn’t exactlyheadline news.

I was elected more than two yearsago on a platform of efficiency andfiscal responsibility; borne of therealization of strained taxpayers anda stagnating economy.

With that in mind, back in May Isuggested we conduct arepresentative survey of residents to

determine affordability ofservices. Staff implemented thesurvey with expediency and theresults came back as suspected. Itis best summarized as maintenanceof services with tax increases nogreater than inflation.

At the time of the survey, inflationwas projected to be 2-2.5 per cent;little did we know it would dropsharply in the latter half of the yearsettling at 1.4 per cent.

Still, with significant work fromstaff and council, we managed to

bring in a budget at 1.39 per cent —the lowest increase of the tri-cities,and among the lowest in Ontario.

My pride in reaching this figurestems from the fact that it wasaccomplished without beingregressive. We made a $500,000payment to debt, dedicated$800,000 to major parks (includingKiwanis Park), $1.65 million totrails, and $320,000 to replacetrees affected by the emerald ashborer. In short, we’re strongerfiscally and still managed to makeKitchener a little bit better. n

Office: 519-741-2779 Residence: [email protected]

The final budget was ratified inJanuary, setting Kitchener’s

tax rate at 1.39 per cent. Throughpublic input, research surveys and

the interactive website, this is whatcitizens told us they could manage.No significant cuts were made toservices such as community centres,snowplowing, and grass cutting;however, one significant reductionthat council made affected our firedepartment. Their budget wasreduced by $480,000 to account forthe retirement of four firefighters;two fire prevention officers havealready retired. This reduction waspresented by senior staff as a viableoption to limit the potential increaseto the fire budget. Even after the

reduction, the overall budget for thedepartment will still go up in 2013.

I understand how the public mayperceive these cuts; I respect thework our firefighters do. It takes aspecial people to do these jobs and Iknow that the communityappreciates this essential service.The reality of the fire departmentbudget is that it has gone up 31.3per cent over the past six years dueto increases in salary, and theopening of an additional fire station.

Salaries are often decided througharbitration. These decisions have

caused unsustainable salary levelsat the municipal level and, if theycontinue, cities could experience anunstable financial position. Citiesneed to send a clear message to theprovince that these methods are notsustainable and taxpayers don’thave limitless funds to pay theseincreases through their taxes.

Everywhere we see efforts toreduce spending, we must lead byexample at the city. Please contactme with your questions orconcerns.n

For the first time in 10 years, Ivoted in favour of the tax

budget, which resulted in anincrease of 1.39 per cent; slightlylower than the annual increase inthe inflation rate. This was

accomplished without cutting anyintegral services.

The most contentious issue wasreducing four firefighters in the firedepartment through attrition. Thisresulted in annual savings of$480,000. I supported this,requesting staff investigate ways toprovide this essential service in amanner that we can afford now andin the future. No action will be takenuntil thorough studies are carriedout, which clearly result in nocomprise to the safety of our citizensand risk to our properties.

Although the increase in taxes isat a reasonable level, I wasextremely disappointed in theincrease constituents will be facingthrough other essential services:water and sewer rates areincreasing by 4.75 per cent. I hadput forward a limiting increase ofthree per cent, but received supportfrom only three councillors. Ourutilities are in a strong financialposition and could withstand givingour consumers a slight reprieve. Inthe last 10 years, the inflation ratehas increased by about 20 per cent.

During this same period, water andsewer rates have increased 199 percent and 293 per cent respectively.

Users of our recreational serviceswill again be facing a further threeper cent increase in fees foractivities such as swimming andskating. Hydro rates are alsoincreasing and many will faceincreases over the next four yearsdue to the change in propertyassessment values. The taxincrease was reasonable, but we fellconsiderably short in other essentialservices provided to our citizens. n

The main branch of KitchenerPublic Library on Queen Street

is open during construction, and ifyou have not seen the progression ofthe new 25,000-square-foot

addition, you will be pleased with thenew space and its changes once itopens this spring. Improvements willthen begin on the original building.For more information on programsand services at all the KPL locations,check out their wonderful andinteractive website www.kpl.org.

The new underground parking atthe main branch library is open andconstruction will be completedsometime this spring on the otherparking garage to the east of thelibrary. And yes, a great public spaceis planned above these parking

garages; your input will be requestedsoon.

KW Art GalleryLooking for something creative for

you or your family to do? Take a tripto see the great exhibits at the KWArt Gallery and find out about theircool art programs there for kids,teens and adults at www.kwag.ca.Let the inner artist out to play andcheck out the wonderful art that is inyour very own backyard at Centre InThe Square!

40 km/hour school zonesLastly, I am moving that the City of

Kitchener consider a pilot program todetermine the effectiveness of areduced speed limit of 40 km/h onelementary school frontages in the2013/2014 school year.

A staff report will come to thecommunity and infrastructureservices committee on April 8. Weneed to develop a culture that sayspedestrians first, especially littleones!

Keep in touch with your great ideasor concerns at [email protected] or519-741-2786. n

Office: 519-741-2786 Residence: 519-576-3501 [email protected]

Office: 519-741-2243 Residence: 519-896-7300 [email protected]@berryonline

Office: 519-741-2790Residence: [email protected]

Office: [email protected]

Family Day is only a few daysaway, so if you are stilllooking for something fun

to do on Feb. 18, I suggest checkingout Mayor Zehr’s Movie Morning, insupport of the Multiple SclerosisSociety of Canada. Doors open at 8a.m. and movies begin between8:45 and 9:15 a.m., at EmpireTheatre on Gateway Park Drive.

There are great movies to choosefrom this year, including The Lorax;Ice Age: Continental Drift;Madagascar 3: Europe’s MostWanted; Transformers: Dark Sideof the Moon and The HungerGames.

The morning is sure to offersomething for everyone! There willbe Lucky Looney draws, great doorprizes, face painting and visits fromOnkle Hans and Miss Oktoberfest.For more details on this event, visitwww.mayorsmoviemorning.com.

Although March Break is stillweeks away, it’s time to startthinking about what your childrenwill be doing with their newfoundfreedom. Will they be visiting withtheir grandparents, spending theweek at home with family, or visitingfriends?

Another great option is MarchBreak Camp at the BreithauptCentre, running from 9 a.m.-4:30p.m. daily with additional supervisedhours available. Children in JK tograde six will spend the weekplaying games both indoors andoutdoors, making new friends, andgoing for a daily swim. For moredetails and to register, visitwww.kitchener.ca, keyword search“camp.”

On April 12, I will host the annualState of the City Address. Thisbreakfast event provides anopportunity for me to share insightssurrounding the 2013 budget, theprogress and planning of citywideprojects, upcoming initiativesaffecting our community, and manyother issues affecting the citizensand businesses of Kitchener, andour entire region.

This charitable event is open to allmembers of the public, with netproceeds from ticket sales donatedto the Kitchener and WaterlooCommunity Foundation. For moreinformation on this, and past Stateof the City addresses, visitwww.kitchener.ca, keyword search“state of the city.” I hope to see youthere!

Budget 2014On Jan 30th, after 11 hours of

deliberation, Kitchener council set the budget and accompanying tax

increase for 2014. After the work of staff and council, the increase stood at an inflationary 0.99%. I’m content with that figure, but it’s merely the headline of a story that you really have to read to appreciate. It’s not difficult to get to inflation provided you’re prepared to slash services, but most Kitchener residents did not want that; and we heeded that direction.

In fact, we added to the budget providing better service in our by-law department. We also began a new

process to increase productivity-per-worker via a mobile tech strategy that will realize efficiency across the organization.

One area that continues to irk me is that of water and sewer costs.

Each year we are assigned rates, passed down by the Region of Waterloo, that have far exceeded inflation yet we have no ability to affect them. I’m not suggesting there isn’t good rationale for those increases, but they are often portrayed as being set by Kitchener

council when they are not. We have no control. Without getting into detail, the costs Kitchener actually can control for these services, rose only at the rate of inflation.

While this is an election year, this is not an election-year-budget.

Our last three budgets have all come in under inflation, and we’ve cut chronic deficits from $943K/year to $144K/yr. I’m proud that the next council of this great city will begin their term from a position of fiscal strength.

Wow! Hard to believe it’s February already. It certainly has been quite the winter this year. From the ice storm before Christmas to all the snow throughout January, it has felt like the

kinds of winters we had 15-20 years ago!2014 BUDGETIn recent weeks, we just finished the

2014 City of Kitchener Budget. The approved final budget sees a 0.99% increase in the City of Kitchener portion of property taxes, amounting to $10 per year for the average home. This is less than CPI. We maintained necessary planned investments in infrastructure, and invested nearly $1 million in service enhancements to support the new expanded Central branch of the Kitchener Public Library, make bylaw enforcement 24/7 and supported investments in mobile technology which will lead to increased efficiency across all city services in

the future. While I was disappointed that we did not invest in increasing the maintenance budget for our street trees, overall, I believe this was a responsible and reasonable budget consistent with taxpayer identified priorities.

RINK VOLUNTEERSA shout out to all of our volunteers

throughout the City who have been maintaining our outdoor skating rinks this winter. The job has certainly been challenging. A special thanks to our Ward 2 volunteers for the rinks at Centreville-Chicopee Community Centre, Country Clair Park, Morrison Park and the Stanley Park Community Centre.

WINTER COPS

Thanks to the Chicopee Ski & Summer Resort and our volunteers from the Waterloo Regional Police Service, the Kitchener Fire Department and our community centre for making the Winter COPS ski experience a success again in 2014! Almost 50 local youth had an amazing experience. I was glad to join them for part of the evening!

UPCOMING EVENTSCheck out some of the following

special events in our community in the next little while – HockeyTown on Civic Square and Coldest Night of the Year: Awareness Walk, both on Feb. 22nd, and the Annual Int’l Women’s Day breakfast on March 7th.

Council has now passed the 2014 Budget containing 18 different clauses. Altough I was satisfied with the 1% tax increase; I could not support the large increases in the

other services provided by the city; some of which used to be included in the tax bill. Water and sanitary sewer, storm water fees, parking and many recreational services will all increase at rates ranging from 3.0% to 5.5% - the current inflation rate is below 1%. Increases in hydro and gas rates will be determined later. Also I could not support the hiring of additional staff at this time. It is interesting to note that in the last 10 years taxes have increased by 34% (not including the new storm water fee); Water by 99% and sewer rates by 193%; whereas the inflation

rate has gone up by 17%.Council has now approved an

additional expenditure of $400,000 to renovate the Boat House at Victoria Park. Normally actions by Council are approved at a committee meeting and then ratified a week or more later at the next council meeting. Again this was not the case with the Boat House decision. The decision was ratified within minutes of being approved at the committee. Unfortunately I was out of the city for the committee meeting fully expecting to be able to participate in the discussions at the next council

meeting seven days later. One has to wonder why there was suddenly such a rush. There should always be at least a week provided for Councillor to rethink and revisit decisions before they are ratified. This also allows time for public engagement. The public has time to contact their Councillor and/or to appear as delegates at the following council meeting. I have long been opposed to this quick action process used on “possibly prickly” issues.

Hello NeighboursMany of you may already know

that Kitchener City Council passed

a budget which included a .99% increase to taxes. Although this is an admirable percentage increase to achieve, it is important for all taxpayers to understand what the total percentage on your tax bill represents.

The Region has supported a 1.86% increase, representing 51% of the total tax levy on your bill. The City of Kitchener’s portion is 32% and the rest is the school boards.

Although I was strongly supportive of reducing the increase in the water, sanitary and storm water fee this

did not pass with the majority of Council. Even though we purchase our water from the Region and they are responsible for our sewer/waste, we have some significant reserves set aside in these utilities, that I and some other councillors were hoping we could use to reduce the rates by 1 to 2%. As of Sept. 30 in the storm water utility budget alone, there was close to $7M left unspent.

Along with these increases, there was a proposal to add seven additional staff. I did support the hire of two by-law officers, since

I continue to hear from residents that by-law’s response time is more than what they anticipate. It is my hope this additional coverage, which now allows for 24 hour by-law coverage, will alleviate these time challenges. I could not justify the cost of employing another 5 people at a total of $450,000 due to the impact on what citizens would pay through the tax levy.

Should you have any questions or comments about the budget please contact me.

We live in a great city with people who care about creating an even better one for future generations.

Planning for a better future was the purpose of our most recent Environics

survey. After giving the results a thorough read, I was pleased to find citizen concern over safety in the downtown is no longer one of the top three concerns found in the same 2003 survey. I equate this to the revitalization of our downtown core over the past 10 years which has dramatically changed the community. I am sure that the majority of those who live, work or shop downtown would agree that it is a safe place with a great mix of businesses and restaurants. Come and see how we’ve changed!

During budget deliberations, I set a personal goal to keep a city tax increase to the current rate of inflation. I am pleased that we achieved this, but not without making some very difficult decisions since many expect that this increase, .99%, to be the new norm, however many pensions are barely growing at even this rate.

We need a culture shift in our thinking towards the environment! As the only council member on Climate Change Waterloo Region (CCWR), I have learned a great deal about

reducing energy output, making me even more passionate about keeping the City of Kitchener a leader in environmental conservation.

Collectively, small steps can add up to big strides! Just by adding a rain barrel to your garden, signing up for an energy audit at www.reepgreen.ca, or borrowing a free electricity audit at www.crewzone.ca will make you aware of simple money and energy saving areas you can act upon.

Ideas or complaints, I enjoy them all. Contact me anytime.

Kitchener Utilities has launched a survey asking customers about their satisfaction with Kitchener Utilities, their natural gas rates and the utilities’ gas purchasing strategy.

Since approving a natural gas purchasing policy in 1998, the city has been using a blended model for purchasing gas to minimize price fluctuations for customers.

This purchasing practice was reviewed in 2006, and in December 2013 council authorized another survey of customers to see if the blended rate model is still the preferred method of purchasing.

“Historically, customers have told us they prefer the rate stability that our current purchasing strategy offers,” said Wally Malcolm, director of Kitchener Utilities.

“Other suppliers who use variable market rate pricing change their prices every three months, leading to less predictable billing. That is certainly an option for council to consider depending on what feedback we receive from the survey.”

The survey asks customers how they review their bills, how much they understand about how the total cost for natural gas is broken down, how they think their rates have compared to other suppliers and their customer service experiences.

“One of the common misconceptions is that we mark up the rates for our gas supply,” adds Malcolm.

“It’s important to us that customers understand what they are paying for and how their utilities are billed.”

In addition to the online survey, focus groups and a random, telephone survey will also be conducted. Kitchener Utilities staff will also be doing community outreach at events around the city to make people aware of the survey.

The survey is available until March 19 at www.kitchenerutilities.ca. Phone surveys are being conducted by Metroline, an independent, third party research group, throughout February and early March.

Staff will present the results to council on April 28.

Have your say: Kitchener Utilities asking for customer feedback


Ihope you have been enjoyingthe summer so far. If you are

looking for an exciting destination to

visit with your family, you may wantto check out the Huron Natural Area(HNA) located at 801 Trillium Dr. Notonly is it Kitchener’s largest park, itis also home to some significantwetlands and species. Withkilometres of trails and boardwalks,there is truly something foreveryone.

The park also offers lots ofeducational experiences, includingan upcoming presentation and walkentitled All About Bats, happeningAug. 24 from 8-10 p.m. You mustregister in advance to participate.

If bats aren’t your thing, you maybe interested in an event calledGanödagwёhda:’ dosgёhgёhö:de’ – village close by thestream, which is a chance to learnabout the rich archaeologicalheritage of the area. This is a drop-inevent on Sept. 21 from 1-4 p.m.Please visit www.kitchener.ca,keyword search “HNA” for moreinformation and to register.

Every year I look forward to theWilliamsburg Community Festival.This year the event will be takingplace on Sunday, Sept. 8 from 11-4

p.m. at Max Becker Commons.While the details are still beingfinalized, you can expect lots ofgreat games, food, activities andentertainment for the whole family.Everyone is invited and I hope to seeyou there!

I want to leave you with a finalthought on fire safety. If you have apropane BBQ, please rememberthat the canisters have a shelf life.Propane cylinders must beinspected and re-certified orreplaced every 10 years. Enjoy therest of your summer! n

notes from city hall

The beautiful weather hasbrought to light someresident concerns regarding

our newest major city park —

McLennan Park. Some key featureslike the large splash pad, dog parkand the walking trail are very wellattended. The number of peopleusing these amenities, plus somevery hot weather, has made itevident that more shaded areas andseating are needed in key areasaround the park. As this is still anewer park, trees have not reachedmaturity to provide sufficient shade,and planting more trees at this timewould not solve the issueimmediately for the same reasons.So, I have been working with our

parks staff, who are investigatingsome options.

Another inconvenience that I’msure has hampered the enjoymentof McLennan Park has been theclosure of the main bathroomfacility. This has been due to somesanitary and structural issues thatare taking longer than anticipated toaddress. As a temporary measure,portable washrooms have beenmade available. Understandably thisis not the desired alternative. I askyou for your patience until theappropriate repairs can be made.

This year, my wife and I took greatpleasure cruising the streets ofWard 6 in order to nominatedeserving properties for theKitchener in Bloom awards to beheld on Sept. 12. Many of you areproud homeowners, taking the timeto beautify your properties. I wantedto make certain that those of youwho go above and beyond would beacknowledged for your efforts inbeautifying your front yards. I amvery happy to say I was able to sendin more than 200 nominations forresidents in Ward 6. n

Iam pleased the city recentlyinstalled sharrows as a pilot

project along King Street fromMadison Avenue to Francis Street in

the downtown core, allowing cycliststo occupy an entire lane, similar to amotorist. Kitchener also has manymarked bike lanes.

In my recent travels to Chicago,Vancouver and Ottawa, I observedone-way and two-way bike lanes ondowntown streets. Some of thesebike lanes are marked with elephantfeet (extra-wide crosswalks, showingthat bikes are permitted to rideacross using the green section astheir travel lane) and are separatedby either planter boxes, collapsibleplastic bollards or raised curbs to

separate the bike riders from themotorists. I also noticed sharrows onthe curb lanes of four lane streets inChicago, which allow motorists topass any cyclists in the passing laneif they are not travelling at the speedlimit.

I have also checked out bike laneson trails and dedicated bike lanes todetermine if there are any gatesbefore approaching a publicroadway. Having biked in StanleyPark and the waterfront inVancouver and Toronto, I have yet todiscover any gates at road crossings.

In fact, Stanley Park has extensiveone-way bike trails and only one gateto separate bicyclists frompedestrians using the local beach.

Well-marked directions, bike speedlimits and separated pedestrian orbike paths are well designed asnoted on numerous park billboards.The Vancouver parks departmentalso provides an extensive BikeVancouver route map and guide.While we have made great strideswith our cycling strategy inKitchener, there is clearly room togrow. n

The summer of 2013 hasbeen terrible for weeds inKitchener. It began when

Region of Waterloo decided to

eliminate the roadside grass cuttingbudget as a cost-saving measure.The region contracts out the serviceto the city but when the moneydisappeared, the city had no choicebut to stop maintaining roadsidegrass.

Wisely, after receiving a lot ofpushback from Kitchener and othermunicipalities, the region reinstatedthe money but unfortunately, amaintenance backlog had beencreated. This backlog, combinedwith an unusually rainy spring andOntario’s pesticide ban, created the

perfect storm for weeds. Recently, I met with city staff to

see how this issue could beaddressed. It is important to notethat grass maintenance iscompleted on a three-week cycle byroutes. The trim crew performs basictrim maintenance on cul-de-sacs,park frontages and aroundplaygrounds and park furniture.Larger mowers cut the main areasof the parks. Staff have alsoinformed me that the maintenancecycles will tighten up as we return tothe drier weather of July and August.

Another solution would be to allowsome areas to be naturalized. Citystaff would work in consultation withresidents to locate appropriateareas that might be beneficial toreturn to a natural state, like valleylands and meadows.

In addition, I am in the process ofdrafting a motion to bring beforecouncil that would seek to increasethe amount of maintenanceperformed on city land. I certainlysympathize with residents who arerightly proud of our community andwant to keep it looking its best.n

Office: 519-741-2783Email:[email protected]: @bilioannidis

Office: 519-741-2798Email:frank.etherington@kitchener.

Got a complaint...who yougonna call? Your complaint-

buster councillor, of course.

Lately, in the hot, stickysummertime, I have been hummingthat Ghostbusters ditty whilehandling legitimate beefs aboutbass-thumping music, high weeds,geese droppings and dying trees.

And that’s why — amid complaintcalls — it’s a relief to receive positivecomments from people delightedabout a city-backed program toreintroduce rental boats to VictoriaPark.

As councillor, I have neverexperienced such a refreshing flow

of complimentary responses about acity project. It’s been great to seethe way residents have embracedthe efforts by Canoeing the Grand toreturn boats to the downtown park.

That company is also donating $1from every boat rental to a park-maintenance fund.

Everywhere I go, people tell methey like seeing boats back on thelake after a 20-year hiatus. Many ofthe comments come from residentswho remember spending enjoyablesummer weekends boating on the

lake during past decades.I recently met one resident in a

neighbourhood grocery store who,as a young man, used to rent boatsfrom the city in the park. He lovedseeing the program return andcommented that, years ago, it cost$3 to rent a boat. He’s amazed that,decades later, it’s still possible torent a boat for $5 per half hour foreach person.n

Office: 519-741-2300Email: [email protected]

What does yourneighbourhood mean toyou? This is the

question that is being asked ofresidents as part of the 20thanniversary of Kitchener’s Festivalof Neighbourhoods.

Typically, residents would host acommunity event and register theirevent to be entered into a randomdraw for a $10,000 capitalimprovement grant to be used intheir neighbourhood.

Since this year marks the 20thanniversary of Kitchener’s Festival ofNeighbourhoods, we thought wewould add even more excitement tothis already outstanding event andcreated the Mayor’s Challenge. It’ssimple; all you have to do is tell mewhat your neighbourhood means toyou. Maybe you want to share a storyabout the memories you have ofgrowing up in your neighbourhood,the impact that one specialneighbour made in your life, or thehistory of your entire neighbourhood.There is no right or wrong answer;just share what your communitymeans to YOU!

You can tell me about yourneighbourhood in any way that youchoose. Write a story or essay of 500words or less; draw, paint or create apicture on an 8.5x11 inch page;create an audio recording of fiveminutes or less, or film a video offive minutes or less.

Please submit your entry to SarahFitzPatrick, executive assistant to themayor, via email,[email protected] or bymail, 200 King St. W., Kitchener, ONN2G 4G7. Submissions must bereceived no later than 3 p.m. onSept. 30.

But now the big question – whatdo you win? Since this is the Mayor’sChallenge after all, the winner andhis/her neighbours will have theopportunity to take me on a walkingtour of your neighbourhood. You canshow me your favourite spots, chatabout topics that are of interest toyou or share your vision of how yousee your neighbourhood in thefuture.

If you have questions or needmore information, please contactJanice Ouellette at 519-741-2200x7227 [email protected].

I look forward to reviewing all ofthe entries and will see one luckywinner this fall! n

Office: 519-741-2793 Cell: 226-748-3109 Email: [email protected]: @paulsinghward6

Office: 519-741-2796 Residence: 519-57Email: [email protected]

Office: 519-741-2791 [email protected]: @gallowaykelly

Dear Ward 5 Residents,Crossing Guard at Woodbine

Avenue and Seabrook DriveI have heard from residents

and the principal at Jean Steckle Public School regarding the need for an adult crossing guard. I raised this concern at a council meeting and staff are doing the required studies and expect to make recommendations to council in the near future.

Getting InvolvedHave you considered

getting involved with your local neighbourhood association? If you want a way to give back to your community and have a hand in shaping its future, this is the

volunteer position for you. Find out more at www.kitchener.ca, keyword search: “neighbourhood association”.

Parking Pilot ProjectAs you may know, Ward 5 has an

ongoing pilot project that is nearing completion. The project seeks to ease our community’s chronic parking shortage by allowing drivers to park cars on the paved portion of the boulevard on residential roadways until March 31, 2014. In order to take advantage of the temporary changes to boulevard

parking and avoid being ticketed, residents are urged to read the complete rules which can be found at: www.kitchener.ca/parking. I want to hear from you about whether or not we should continue to allow boulevard parking; your experience with the project or if you have other ideas for addressing the parking situation.

Please feel free to contact me on any local matters. I can be reached by email me at [email protected] or give me a call at 519-741-2791.

As most of you who follow municipal politics saw, City Council approved a tax levy increase of .99% for the 2014 budget. I supported this

increase as I felt it met the target of the current rate of inflation of 1% and we did not have to reduce any services. Also, I did not support hiring additional staff other than two by-law enforcement officers, desperately needed for 24 hour enforcement of by-laws pertaining to noise issues, backyard open fires, sidewalk snow shovelling, etc.

One concern I had issue with was the increase in the storm water, water and sanitary rates. These rates have increased substantially over the last ten years. Councillors Gazzola,

Fernandes and I tried to dramatically limit the increase. Unfortunately, we were defeated by the others who supported larger increases of 3% for storm water, 3.5% for water and 5% for sanitary user rates. I did not support any of these increases.

If you combine the tax levy with the user fee rate increase for utilities, the actual overall impact on the taxpayer is actually 2.65%.

I also moved that the $100,000 saved by not installing a sidewalk on Glasgow St. between Knell Drive and Westmount Road as

part of the Glasgow Reconstruction Project this summer, be applied to reducing the tax levy as requested by these residents. This would have decreased the tax levy by about 1% to .89%. However, engineering and finance staff argued against me and insisted that the money remain in infrastructure accounts for future works. Also, Budget Chair Scott Davey refused to accept my motion of reducing the tax increase which was then not considered by council.

Dear Neighbours,I hope you have been keeping

well this winter! It has not been easy

with frigid temperatures and more snow than we have seen for a few years. Let’s hope that spring is finally around the corner.

On a brighter note, I am pleased to report a new pilot project in our community. Forest Heights Community Association (FHCA) is partnering with the newly formed Boardwalk Neighbourhood Association (BNA) to create a joint community newsletter. FHCA was founded over forty years ago and is the ideal organization to mentor the fledgling BNA. The two groups

plan to embark on a number of other joint projects, including a “lend a volunteer” initiative. I am excited to see the results of this new collaboration.

Do you want to get more involved in your community? Your local neighbourhood association is the perfect starting point. There is no better way to get to know your neighbours, help out your community and have a say in local matters. Visit www.kitchener.ca to find out more.

As some of you may know, the extra parking lot at St. Dominic Savio

School is at risk of being closed. I recently met with officials from the Waterloo Catholic District School Board to discuss what options, if any, are available. As a parent, I understand the importance of having a safe place to drop off and pick up kids from school. I plan to fight the closure and will keep you posted on any further developments.

As always, I encourage you to keep in touch! Tweet me @bilioannidis, email me at [email protected] or call me at (519) 741-2783.

What’s a mere $629.55 while councillors wrestle with a $104,450,374 annual budget?

That question and a suggestion I’m media grandstanding are among

comments I hear during annual budget sessions as I bring up items like the home-office technology allowance for councillors and our fair-access, subsidy program for low-income families.

My answer? Cuts made to home-office expenses involve a symbolic exercise where we lead by example at a time when many seniors living on fixed incomes and families hit hard by layoffs are experiencing financial difficulty.

Every year, each councillor is budgeted $4, 454 to cover capital and operating expenses for home offices

— a total $48,994 for the mayor and council. Some councillors spend most of their budgets while others use far less.

During every budget session I suggest, with limited success, that we reduce expenses that pay for home-office operating costs as well as items including furniture, computers, BlackBerries, laptops, tablets and even digital cameras. I also note that we have well-equipped offices at city hall.

Meanwhile, back in the real world, Leisure Access cards helped 3,460 seniors and children to afford

recreational activities in 2013. And, even though staff did not turn anyone away, the program went $29,469 over budget.

Last month, I was pleased to see councillors support my motion that we add $10,000 to the fair-access program.

And, with a municipal election approaching this fall, a majority also approved my second motion that cuts a councillor’s home-office operating expenses by $629.55 a year, down from $3,129.55 to $2,500.

Greetings Ward 6 Residents,A budget is an action plan and

one of the most important city policy documents. Deliberating on our last

budget for this term of council, has again made me appreciate living in such a dynamic and diverse city that offers such a healthy level of services and programs, which in turn contribute to a stronger economic climate.

Having said this, I realize increasing costs and taxes are becoming difficult to bear. Through this budget process, I continued to encourage reductions to the tax levy that would have the least negative impact on citizen services and future taxes. Last fall I put forth a request to staff to find alternative revenue

sources for council to consider during the budget process. These options not only helped to further reduce the tax levy, but also provided opportunity to strategically allocate funds to priorities, with little or no impact to our citizens.

The various options before us allowed for a budget that met the request of many of our tax payers: an increase limited to, or less than, inflation. While staying within the guidelines of this request, council were also able to improve service levels in some areas where they were lacking.

Ultimately, after a long day of budget deliberation, council approved a tax levy increase of 0.99%, below the provinces 2013 year-end Consumer Price Index. This increase is balanced and insures that taxpayers receive value for their tax dollars.

When council considered water, sanitary, and storm water utility rates, I fought long and hard, encouraging council to be sensitive and consider their affordability to our customers. Unfortunately, the majority of council did not support my motion for a lower rate increase.

As you have likely heard, after 26 years on Kitchener City Council – 17 as Mayor and nine as City Councillor – I will not be seeking reelection in the coming fall election.

Over the past three decades our community has accomplished a great deal. By working together, residents, businesses, community groups, municipal staff and councils have built a city that is truly the envy of many other municipalities. We have provided residents with the services they need today, while transforming our local economy into one which creates jobs for decades to come and positions us well to compete globally.

I am deeply honoured and grateful to have had the opportunity to play a leadership role in many of those accomplishments and believe strongly in the community we have built - no one individual, including myself, can take credit for all of this amazing work.

Some of the municipal amenities that have been built, expanded or upgraded over the past 17 years include:

• 12 community centres built or expanded upon;

• Activa Sportsplex built (2 ice pads, indoor walking track and boxing facility, LEED Gold Certified);

• McLennan Park and Huron Natural Area created;

• Walter Bean Grand River Trail developed and river crossing built;

• 6 of Kitchener’s 7 current fire stations built;

• Doon Valley Golf Course expanded by 9 holes, a pitch and putt and practice facility;

• New Kitchener Market built;• 3 of the City’s current libraries built

or significantly renovated;• Victoria Park upgrades completed,

including rehabilitation of the lake, and;

• Kitchener Operations Facility built. One of the greatest pleasures I

have had while serving as Kitchener’s Mayor has been the opportunity to speak with and help so many people from so many different parts of our community. While I will certainly miss that part of the job, I am confident that the next generation of political leaders will continue Kitchener’s long-standing traditions of inclusion, compassion, innovation and engagement.

Lastly, I would also like to thank the Kitchener Citizen for their continued support – by providing Council with the space to run our monthly columns – which allows us to provide the citizens of Kitchener with information about current issues affecting their lives.

ca

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THIS MONTH’S READING:Longbourn by Jo Baker

REVIEWED BY:Sharron Smith, Co-ordinator,

Bibliographic Services

For more great reading ideas, visit www.kpl.org and click on the “Books and More” tab.Want to share your own review of your favourite read? The library’s online catalogue enables library card holders towrite a review for any item in the collection. Simply click on the “Add Review” tab for your selected book, and write away!

WHAT WE’RE READING

Fans of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice (orthe TV series Downton Abbey) won’t want to

miss Longbourn by Jo Baker, a wonderful storythat eloquently mirrors Austen’s story. Still set inthe Bennet household, this time the story is toldfrom the perspective of “downstairs”, providingreaders with the servants view.

As the story unfolds, readers meet housemaidSarah, who like Elizabeth Bennet, is initially in-trigued and almost taken in by a man who is notwhat he purports to be. It is only when a newfootman arrives on the scene that Sarah will findherself, and like Lizzie, is then faced with a choicebetween two very different men. Baker providesa wealth of downstairs detail, and does not skimpon the realistic harshness of the daily work ex-pected from the servants. The result is a vividrecreation of both time and place in the story.

In a nod to social injustice, there is a story linefeaturing the sugar plantations of the New World

and slavery. Readers are also offered glimpsesinto the life of a Napoleonic War soldier. Scenesof both hardship and violence are included, andagain, very much in contrast to the scenes de-picted by Austen, where the militia are frequentlyseen engaged in dinners, card parties or balls.

All of Austen’s beloved characters are here;however, for the real P&P fan who may be hopingto spend time with Mr. Darcy, you’ll be disap-pointed as the real emphasis is on the servantsand how the events above stairs, impact on thelives and relationships of those downstairs. Any-one picking up this companion novel may want tore-read Pride and Prejudice again, this time tocapture glimpses of the cast from Longbourn. Allin all, this take on the classic work does not dis-appoint; it is a highly enjoyable and compellingglimpse into the lives of the working-class duringthe Regency period in England.

A monthly column featuring great reads as suggested andreviewed by librarians from the Kitchener Public Library.

Follow along each month and discover your next great read!


COMMUNITY CALENDARHOMER WATSON HOUSE & GALLERY

LUNCHTIME LECTURE SERIES - featuring rych mills, February 13 from 12 noon to 1pm at Homer Watson House & Gallery, 1754 Old Mill Road, Kitchener. The first educational Lunchtime Lecture of our 2014 series will feature local historian rych mills, who will reflect on the creation, development and changing role of Homer Watson Park. The event will also include a question and answer period with the local history enthusiast, as well as tasty appetizers donated by local food suppliers! Please call ahead to reserve your seat. Cost: $10/person or free for those who hold current memberships. Registration: 519-748-4377 or homerwatson.on.ca

YOUTH VIDEO COMPETITION 2014 – Open to youth ages 12 – 25, the City of Kitchener’s Public Art Program invites youth and schools to express their creativitity, win cash prizes and have their videos digitally projected onto Kitchener City Hall. Showcase your short original videos (no audio). Contest deadline is March 31. Learn more and enter the contest: www.kitchener.ca/youthvideocomp

K-W FIELD NATURALISTS CLUB MEETING – The February 24 meeting will feature a presentation of Peter Raspberry’s nature photos. Peter is a hobby photographer with a special interest in birds, wildflowers, insects, landscapes and other elements of our natural world. He teaches at the Blair Outdoor and Environmental Education Centre, which affords him the opportunity to photograph many local wildlife species. He has had photographs published by the Canadian Wildlife Federation in its Canadian Wildlife and Wild magazines. In 2010, his poster-size photos were exhibited at the Biosphere Environment Museum in Montreal, celebrating the United Nations International Year of Biodiversity. Peter will share his appreciation for the environment with KWFN at its regular meeting February 24 from 7:30 – 9:30pm, 404 Wing/Rotary Centre, 510 Dutton Drive, Waterloo. Please join us! For further information call 519-742- 4577 or visit www.kwfn.ca

OPEN CLOSET – In recognition of International Women’s Week, the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region is hosting its 8th Annual Open Closet. This year’s event is on Friday, March 7th, 2014 from 11am until 1pm in two locations! At Kitchener (Trinity United Church, 74 Frederick St.) and in Cambridge (in partnership with Langs, 1145 Concession Rd.) SASC invites all women and their children to shop through our fabulous selection of gently-used, free clothing, while enjoying refreshments! We need your help! Community members interested in donating gently-used women’s and children’s clothing are encouraged to begin sorting through their closets. Clothing donations can be made on Thursday, March 6th, 2014 from 4pm to 8pm in BOTH locations listed above! Due to space restrictions, we’re not able to accept clothing at any time other than these scheduled drop-off times. Anyone interested in assisting with receiving, sorting, and folding clothing or providing refreshments, please contact [email protected].

COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR WALK - On February 22, 2014 approximately 800 toque-

wearing walkers from the Waterloo Region will be taking part in the fourth Coldest Night of the Year, a family-friendly winter fundraising event for K-W’s homeless, hungry and hurting. The funds raised will directly support the Ray of Hope Community Centre, which provides daily meals, food hampers and clothing to those who need it.

This year’s walk is BIGGER, growing from 37 cities to 64 from all across Canada. People can support their favourite KW walker or join a toque-wearing team for this 2, 5, or 10 KM walk event by signing-up online (www.brrrr.org). Registration is at Cameron Heights Collegiate (301 Charles St. E) from 4-5 PM and each walk route finishes at the Ray of Hope Community Centre (659 King St. E) where a warm bowl of soup will be waiting. For more information call 519-578-8018 ext 220 or visit www.rayofhope.net

TECHNOLOGY COACHING SESSIONS – offered by the Social Planning Council of Kitchener-Waterloo. Free to all – Registration Required. Whether you have never touched a computer before or you would like to learn more, we can help! During a personalized coaching session, you will learn new or practice your computer and Internet skills with the hands-on help of one of our ConnectKW team members. Choose from topics such as: intro to Word, online banking, or using Facebook. Coaching sessions can be booked from now until the end of March, 2014. To register or for more information, please call the Community Information Centre at (519) 579-3800 or ConnectKW at (519) 579-1096 *3011 or e-mail us at [email protected]

UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO ART GALLERY EXHIBITS - Gallery One will feature C. Wells’ Place and Space (REDUX) until March 8. C. Wells has developed a painting practice akin in spirit to that of a contemporary topographer. By exclusively using line marker paint—an industrial medium used to mark the boundaries of highways and roads to regulate vehicular or pedestrian traffic—he investigates the history and heritage of line marking, beginning with its origins in Trenton, Michigan in 1911. Gallery Two will feature Soft Turns and Behind the High Grass until March 8. Soft Turns is the partnership of Sarah Jane Gorlitz and Wojciech Olejnik. Inspired by a post-war travel book authored by Czech travellers and filmmakers Jiri Hanzelka and Miroslav Zikmund found at a Berlin flea market, they began to use the contents of the book as a means of addressing the vast social, historical and political upheavals of the post-war period. www.softturns.com

Exhibitions are free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Saturday 12 to 5pm, or by appointment. UWAG/University of Waterloo Art Gallery

East Campus Hall | ECH 1239 519.888.4567 ext. 33575 uwag.uwaterloo.ca facebook.com/uwag.waterloo

STANLEY PARK SCHOOL’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY – Stanley Park Senior Public School will be celebrating its 50th anniversary on Saturday, April 5th, 2014.The school will be open to anyone interested in sharing in our history during a “drop-in” from 1 to 4pm, where visitors will be able to view a variety of “decade rooms”, complete with photos, yearbooks and

other school memorabilia. There will be a short program in the gym at 2pm, featuring some local dignitaries. Refreshments will also be served. Following the program until 4pm, visitors can tour the school and view displays including the contents of the 25-year time capsule that will be opened especially for this occasion.

100th ANNIVERSARY OF ST. ANDREWS PUBLIC SCHOOL - St. Andrew’s Public School in Cambridge is extending an invitation to former staff, alumni, and local history buffs to join in the planning of the school’s 100-year celebration. The school, which first opened its doors in 1914, will be welcoming former students, staff and the public with an Open House and celebration planned for May 10th, 2014. Volunteers are needed plan, prepare, and promote the celebration. Help is needed to collect and scan old photographs, track down yearbooks and memorabilia, promote the event to alumni, plant a commemorative garden, research and document the history of the school, and coordinate activities for the public celebration. For more information, check the school website at sta.wrdsb.ca or call the school at (519) 621-7170.

KW SYMPHONY - PIXAR IN CONCERT - on Feb 26, 7pm Centre In The Square. From the Toy Story trilogy to The Incredibles and UP, Pixar has forever impacted filmmaking and given audiences of all ages some of the most beloved characters in cinematic history. Now, for the first time ever, the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony presents Pixar in Concert, with visually stunning clips and memorable scores from each of Pixar’s movies, including their latest release, Brave, performed live by your KWS. Movie magic on the big screen with Evan Mitchell, conductor. Watch film clips from your favourite Pixar movies with the soundtrack played LIVE by your KWS! Fun for the Entire Family. For tickets visit: tickets.kwsymphony.on.ca [email protected] or [email protected]

ACT OUT KW PRESENTS SHERLOCK - Adapted from the novel The West End Horror by Nicholas Meyer act OUT KW presents this superbly funny stage production of Sherlock on February 28 at 7pm and March 1 at 1:30 & 6:30pm at the Registry Theatre, Kitchener. Tickets available through www.ticketscene.ca, [email protected] or at the door (cash only). “CHANGE to MAKE a CHANGE” collection during the performance will benefit Nutrition for Learning.

LINCOLN SERIES OF LIVE MUSIC RETURNS - The Lincoln Series returns this Fall at St. Columba Anglican Church, 250 Lincoln Road, Waterloo. There is seating for just over 100 in this warm, acoustically rich ambience. March 4, 2014 will see the return of the acclaimed Royal City Saxophone Quartet, for a Mardi Gras Concert of New Orleans Jazz and Ragtime tunes. Back by popular demand for the fourth and final concert on April 25, 2014 is the Brian Pickell Band. The band includes Brian Pickell (guitar, mandolin, banjo), Pat O’Gorman (flute, whistle, Irish pipes), Shane Cook (fiddle), James Stephens (fiddle, mandolin, tenor guitar) and Julie Schryer (piano). Single event tickets are $30/Adult and $20/Student. Series tickets are $100 Adult/$65 Student. Tickets can be purchased by calling 519-886-6395 or

by emailing [email protected]. For more information go to www.saintcolumbachurch.com.

REEP OPEN HOUSE - REEP House for Sustainable Living, 20 Mill Street, Kitchener is open every Saturday from 10am to 2pm. An interactive community resource, this 100-year-old home has been renovated by REEP Green Solutions to exceed modern building standards while maintaining heritage value; working demonstrations of household energy-efficient and water management technologies; certified energy adviser available to answer your home energy and water savings questions. Contact [email protected] or call 519-744-9799.

COFFEE BREAK - is an interdenominational Bible Study for women of all ages and all stages of faith. Nurseries and preschool programs are provided. All programs are free. Wednesdays 9.30-11am, at the Community Christian Reformed Church, 1275 Bleams Rd., Kitchener. Register at www.ccrc.on.ca or come out on a Wednesday morning. Questions? [email protected]

ADULT DAY PROGRAM - Did you know Trinity Village has an Adult Day Program for seniors wishing to socialize with other seniors? The cost is just $8 per day and the program runs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to 1 pm, at Trinity Village Care Centre, on Kingsway Drive, near Fairview Park Mall. Self-referrals welcome or contact CCAC, 519-748-2222. For more information call the Day Program Coordinator at 519-893-6320 ext. 235.

ROCKWAY ENTERTAINERS - choral group singing four-part harmony. Recruiting new members... Membership open to those over 50 years old. Rehearsals are Thursdays at 1:30 – 3:30pm from September until May at Rockway Centre Auditorium, 1405 King Street East, Kitchener. Please phone 519-885-9978 or 519-741-2507 for more information.

DIVERSECITY TOASTMASTERS CLUB - Do you have trouble finding the right words when speaking to a group? Need a career boost? Want to polish your presentation skills? Toastmasters is the place for you. Learn communication, leadership and presentation strategies in a friendly, supportive atmosphere. DiverseCity is a new club and is open to all. It runs Mondays, 7 - 8:30 pm at Kitchener City Hall, the Conestoga Room. For more information contact Georgina Green, 519-743-7655 or [email protected].

FREE EVENTS AT DOON VILLAGE RETIREMENT RESIDENCE- 868 Doon Village Road, Kitchener. Sweetheart Luncheon on Friday, February 14 at 1pm. Join us for a day of love and friendship. Enjoy a complimentary lunch and live entertainment. Happy Valentine’s Day. Space is limited so call to reserve your spot today. Tax Planning Seminar for Seniors on Wednesday, February 19 from 9:30-11:30am. This seminar covers thoughtful planning, tax tips, topics and resources for seniors. Complimentary refreshments provided. Space is limited so call to reserve your spot today. 80 Plus Driving School on Friday, February 28 from 9:30am-12noon. Be prepared and keep your driver’s license! MTO approved. Complimentary lunch provided. Space is limited so call to reserve your spot today. 519-896-8702

by Carrie Debrone

Forget bowling nights or inspirational speakers –

you can improve your business by looking at, and thinking about, art.

A new Creative Thinking Workshop offered by the KW Art Gallery is putting its own gallery collections to good use by helping local businesses with professional development.

In today’s world, image is becoming more and more important. Have you ever looked at an image and wondered what the artist intended you to see? What message he or she was trying to convey?

Taking time to delve into visual art from all angles can boost your creative thinking skills, your ability to interpret visual information and your analytical skills – all important communication tools needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced business world.

Building on this knowledge, staff at the KW Art Gallery developed the Creative Thinking Workshop as a fun way for companies to engage their employees in professional development.

Using the art on its own

gallery walls -- some of the best contemporary works of art from around the world -- the workshop allows co-workers to learn with one another outside the office in the casual atmosphere of the KWAG galleries and in the recently renovated former Art Bar, now called the Community Access Space.

In the fall of 2013, a group of resident doctors from the McMaster University medical program in Kitchener participated in the workshop.

“Feedback from the group was positive,” said Nicole Neufeld, KWAG Director of Public Programs, who said responses included: “The program was very helpful to get a sense of the fine details to look for in art and in life, and it was great to get different perspectives.”

The gallery also provided a mini version of the workshop to the public in January.

“We had a great response to the mini session and had to cap the numbers. We will be doing another teaser session later in the year,” said Neufeld.

“We live in an increasingly image-based world where how to read and understand images becomes very important,” said

Neufeld.“It’s also important to realize

how the context of images can change the understanding of them,” Neufeld said, adding that while one person may find comfort in a painting of ocean waves, another may be left feeling uneasy by the same picture.

Not only do participants learn new analytical skills but Neufeld said the workshop could also help to boost team morale.

“It’s really a lot of fun and fosters a sense of curiosity. Research shows that this type of activity hones a sense of empathy for one another,” she said, adding that the workshop provides a great opportunity for managers to see their employees’ skills in a way that may not come to light in a traditional office setting.

The 3-hour workshop is lead by a gallery facilitator, and is suitable for groups of between 8 and 25 people. During the session, participants view various pieces of art and learn how to critically analyze them, learning the language and descriptions often used by art critics. They also complete a simple art-making project and view art in the gallery to

think about how it affects them emotionally. They are given time to talk with each other about what the art means to them and gain from everyone’s input.

The sessions cost $650 (per group up to 25 people). Costs could be lower for not-for-

profit groups.“The workshop encourages

people to find new ways to think about art and about life,” Neufeld said.

For more information about the workshop or other programs offered at the KW Art Gallery visit www.kwag.on.ca


Arts & ENTERTAINMENT

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Mindy Alexander, School Programs Coordinator, leads a discussion about a painting as part of the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery’s new Creative Thinking Workshops that provide professional development for local businesses.

Art can help build your business

Digital storyteller Dwight Storringis Kitchener’s 2014 artist in residence

The City of Kitchener 2014 artist in residence

is Dwight Storring, a digital storyteller and media artist. Storring’s year-long residency, entitled Neighbourhood Voices, will document life in the stories of Kitchener’s neighbourhoods by collecting personal stories of residents.

Storring will draw out the richness of life in Kitchener in 2014 through personal stories of family and community, using still images, audio and video combined into a collaborative documentary film, using the city’s community centres as a place to start.

Storring will also hold three story-gathering events at selected locations, for participants of all skill levels. Through a step-by-step story-telling process that includes neighbourhood mapping, video portrait making, a story-sharing circle and one-on-one story coaching, residents’ stories and interviews will be recorded in video.

“My art is centred around the personal narrative and its

resonance within the large societal narrative,” Storring says. “I strive to bring people’s personal stories to light and cast the storytellers as players within a community space.”

Storring spent 15 years as a photojournalist and photo editor with the Record before starting the paper’s first website in 1996. His work includes projects for IMPACT 13, Women’s Crisis Services Waterloo Region, inREACH program, House of Friendship and Waterloo Region. His Latitudes and Longitudes digital storytelling tour, Made in Kitchener, (http://madeinkitchener.ca) is a Kitchener 100 project celebrating the city’s centenary in 2012.

In every project, story is central.

“I aim to honour people’s personal stories while bringing a new perspective to the work through curatorial practices of collection, relationship-making and interpretation,” he says.

To see portraits, stories and interviews, go to www.kitchener.ca/air.

by anDrea HallThe Bare it for Books

Calendar, sold in support of PEN Canada, is chock full of naked Canadian authors who stare at me from my wall and keep track of all my social engagements. As the new year started, the obvious thing to do was read a book by each author in the month they grace. First up – Angie Abdou.

The Bone Cage isn’t Abdou’s most recent work, but given that Canadian athletes are competing in Sochi right now it seemed extra appropriate to peruse a book on Canadian Olympians. The book flips between Sadie the swimmer and Digger the wrestler as they prep for the Sydney Games. The story for both starts as they qualify, aware they face about eight months of intensive training before the big competition.

Growing up, I played team sports; although they often involved intensive practice and yelly coaches, ultimately it was more about playing a game than individual training. I had no real aspirations for Olympic glory – I’m content to watch the athletes who profess time and again those clichés about doing what they love and striving to be the best, and

cheer for Canadian gold.So this book gave me a new

perspective. Of course elite athletes face struggles, but the deep-seated uncertainty these characters display – particularly Sadie – about whether it’s all worth it is something I’d only superficially considered. I realize it’s stressful and physically demanding and it seems kind of unfair that the rest of the country only pays attention to you and your sport once every four years unless you’re also employed on a professional hockey team. And sure, there’s lot of sacrifice involved, so for someone like Digger’s teammate Ben, who

misses out on qualifying, I can understand the heartache.

But the impression I think many people (myself included) have is that all elite athletes aspire to Olympic opportunity, and once achieved they will revel in it. According to this book, it’s not so simple – for most people sport is one thing and life another, but if they become one and the same, how do you cope when your athletic career ends?

That’s something both Sadie and Digger are struggling with as they approach what they know will be their final appearance on the world stage. “What next?” looms large, and this book addresses the question moreso than the answer, at first abstractly and then in a more jarring fashion.

For more information on the BIFB calendar visit bareitforbooks.ca, and consider adding some Canadian authors to your wall as well as your bookshelf.

* * *

Andrea Hall is from Kitchener and now resides in Toronto. She is a producer with CBC radio and writes a book blog at http://ageisjustapagenumber.wordpress.com/


Green bin that!

Feed it...All food waste including candy and chocolatesIndoor plants and cut flowersPaper party stuffPaper cups and platesPaper towels and napkinsPet waste wrapped in paper

Show yourgreen bin

some love

For more information about waste programs and services, please visit www.regionofwaterloo.ca/waste or

call 519-883-5100 TTY 519-575-4608

All members of the com-munity are welcome to

attend the memorial and cel-ebration of Ruthe Cayley at the Homer Watson House & Gallery, 1754 Old Mill Road, Kitchener, on Saturday, Febru-ary 15 from 1 to 3pm.

The memorial will be hosted by her daughter, Ella Crozier, and will include testimonials, refreshments and a presentation to remember Ruthe’s life.

Ruthe was born in Toronto on May 28, 1928. Both she and her husband Tom had a passion for the arts, which lead them to purchase Homer Watson House, known then as the Doon School of Fine Art, in 1969.

The Cayleys managed the Gallery as a center for art and culture. After Tom’s passing, Ruthe devoted her energy to preserving this timeless venue. Her fiery personality

kept her busy as custodian, plumber, electrician, curator and business manager.

At the brink of almost losing the public’s interest she took the unconventional method to save the house and applied for a demolition permit, which lead to awareness of the heritage of the house and the importance it held for the community and Canadians everywhere.

Ultimately, her battle to keep Homer Watson House as a historical site prevailed and the City of Kitchener took ownership, appointing the Homer Watson House Foundation as custodian.

In thanks to both Ruthe and Tom for their efforts, Homer Watson House & Gallery dedicated one of its contemporary gallery spaces in their honour.

For more information call 519-748-4377.

FEBRUARY 15

Homer Watson House & Gallery to host memorial for Ruthe Cayley

BOOK REVIEWThe Bone Cage looks at the demands andthe sacrifices that face Olympic athletes

TREASURES FROM THE OCEAN George Pearce of Fergus looks at an interactive robotic arm that is used to pick up debris from the ocean floor at the Shipwreck! Pirates and Treasure exhibit at the Waterloo Region Museum on Homer Watson Boulevard. The display has more than 500 priceless artifacts recovered from famous shipwrecks including pieces of real gold and silver. Other interactive displays include a hurricane simulator. This exhibit is open daily until April 30.

Photo by Helen Hall.


RRSP TFSAPrimary purpose

Long term savings for your retirement. Short or long term savings for many purposes, such as buying a new car, vacation or home improvements.

Growth type Tax deferred income and interest. Tax free interest.

Annual contribution limit

Based on income. 18% of previous year’s income. Find your contribution limit on your annual Notice of Assessment.

Not based on income. Limit of $5,500 per year, plus any unused contributions from the previous years, plus replacement of previous withdrawals.

Deductibility and interest

Contributions are tax deductible which reduces your taxable income in the year you make the contribution. However, any withdrawals that you make would be added to your income and taxed accordingly.

Contributions are not tax deductible, but the investment earnings are tax exempt.

Plan maturity Must be converted to a retirement income vehicle, such as a Registered Retirement Income Fund, in the year that you turn 71.

No upper age contribution limit or minimum withdrawal requirement.

Spousal plans As a way of income splitting, or equalizing, a spousal RRSP allows families to reduce their overall tax bill by shifting the income from the higher income earner to the lower income earner. By using this method, couples may reduce their overall tax bill.

Although there are no spousal plans, an individual can provide funds to their spouse to invest in their TFSA.

Kitchener Citizen - West Edition - February 2014

Documents

Transcript of Kitchener Citizen - West Edition - February 2014