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Vol. 40 No. 1 January 2003 Martin Ross awarded a Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal! WELL DONE MARTY! President's Update Happy New Year! Hopefully, the Christmas Season has been a rewarding one for you, given
you time to reflect, and given you a spirit to embrace the New Year for all it
will hold. Special thanks to all who made the annual Christmas Caravan a
resounding success, including those who gave clothing and food items, those
who participated by collecting and loading the truck, Marty Ross for his
organizational efforts, the police and fire department personnel, the
merchants in the area who chipped in, and, of course, Santa. After the holidays, January is a quiet month for most of us - a time we
spend more indoors than out and a time we try to follow some of those New
Year’s resolutions that we made. There
is no better time than now to get some of your affairs in order. I’m not
talking about taxes, as many of your statements have not been mailed yet. How
about looking at what protection you have in the event you are a victim of a
burglary, flood or fire. I will discuss insurance in a future issue, but before we look at that,
what do you want to insure? Picking up where I left off in November, my
subject for this month will be to suggest doing an inventory of your personal
property. It just simply makes good sense to prepare a list of your property,
to date it, and to keep one copy of it off site in a safe place. In addition
to, or in place of, a written list, you can use pictures or a video camera.
The video camera is the quickest of course and this visual record will
give you instant memory recall. As you film your possessions, describe them
fully through the microphone, including any ID or serial numbers. Film
everything. Open every drawer, film it for about three seconds and move on to
the next drawer. Go into every closet. Go from room to room, upstairs and
down, including the garage. Obviously, you want to cover all items of
significant value. However, a video also allows you to capture all the small
items, which you might not later recall, but which can add up if you need to
make a claim with the insurance company. If you don’t have a video camera
and wind up having to write it all down, it will not be lost time. If you
eventually file a loss with your insurance company, it will have to be done in
writing anyway. Now, if you only get to do the above, you are ahead of most people and
well on the road to having taken the necessary steps to cover your
possessions. But you can do more. Many insurance companies have home inventory
forms and there is software available, which allows you to record everything
on your computer. The typical vital information includes make, model, serial
number, estimated value and any other description, which you can provide.
Whatever way you record this information, keep a copy of it in a
fireproof box, with your lawyer, or at a bank safety deposit box. I can tell
you that, prior to the fire in our house, I did not have most of the above
done, and it was a very long process this year to go through, remember and
itemize all of these items. But I did have some papers and a couple of key
family videos, put away in our bank safety deposit box. It was a tremendous
feeling to find these safely put away in the days after the fire. Finally,
update this list every couple of years. In the event you need it, you’ll be
glad you did. Do yourself a big favour. Get your possessions recorded. Best Wishes For A Healthy and Happy 2003! Patrick J. Clifford President, Markland Homes Association 2002-2003
Board of Directors EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT: Patrick Clifford, 8 The Green Pines VICE-PRESIDENT: Tom Napier, 1 Markland Dr. SECRETARY: Don Matheson, 30 Markwood Cr. TREASURER: Gerard Betsch, 14 Winsdale Road DIRECTORS Stephen Blimkie, 197 Markland Drive Richard Boehnke, 67 Markland Dr. Brian Brennand, 2 Markland Dr. Bev Evans, 8 Winsdale Rd. Graham Maguire, 2 Broadfield Dr. Diane Mcleod, 15 Aymarn Crt. Associate Directors Helen Boehnke, Bo Lawrentiw, Ian Sillars, Irene Sillars and Patti
Thorne, Martin Ross awarded a Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal It has been said many times, “It is better to give than to receive”.
Be that true, and all kind people know it is, then Martin Ross is one of the
best people around, and now it is official. On Saturday, December 14, he was
bestowed with a Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal, along with 34 other noble
citizens of Etobicoke. I quote from the program, “The Golden Jubilee Medal was created to pay tribute to people whose
achievements have benefited their fellow citizens, their community and their
country. It commemorates the 50th Anniversary of the reign of Her
majesty Queen Elizabeth II.” What a wonderful honour for one of our own Marklanders. Marty, as most
people affectionately know him, has earned this award in many ways, with two
decades of giving to the adults and youth of this community. His efforts
include 12 years as a leader of Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Ventures in the
Bloordale United 401st Scouting group Being in charge or helping with scouting fundraisers such as Christmas
Tree Sales and Apple Day for all of those years 12 years on the Board of Directors of the Markland Homes Association
(MHA), including A years as the President and B years as the Vice-President 15 years as the champion and coordinator of the MHA Christmas Caravan,
thereby responsible for the raising of substantial funds and immeasurable
quantities of food and clothing for underprivileged families. 15 years as the MHA’s representative on the Airport committee, where
he valiantly fought, on our behalf, to try to bring reason to airport
expansion 12 years as an elder at Islington United Church Many years of fireworks hosting and Halloween scaring Wow, and he has still managed to work full-time, raise two fine children
and keep his garage floor spotless for all of those years. It is also said
that those that do, keep doing, and those that don’t ... (I’m sure you get
the idea). We have been fortunate in Markland to have many volunteers, able to
commit varying amounts of time to support our community. Unfortunately, the
survey says that volunteerism is a declining resource. If everyone in our
community did but one of the many deeds of giving that Marty has, we would
defy that trend and have some extra giving to go around. As June Lockwood said
in her speech at the inspiring Queens Jubilee ceremony, “Those that don’t
volunteer will do so as soon as they find some time”. My own altruistic efforts don’t match up to Marty’s (a
hard act to match), but I have done enough to appreciate Ms. Lockwood’s
justified sarcasm and be proud not to have to feel that I am one of her
intended audience. To those that have yet to find the time, I suggest you do
so soon. The number of people needing help, especially in these times of
government under-funding and an aging population, is rising rapidly. A Almost all of us in this fine neighbourhood are blessed in so many ways,
all the more reason why we need to help those less fortunate. You don’t have
to win a medal, just make the time, and you will be all the richer for it. Congratulations Marty, on behalf of all the residents of Markland Wood,
on being a worthy recipient of this esteemed award. Steve Overholt Proud friend of Martin Ross. Christmas Caravan Update
Well done Marklanders! As we celebrated our 35th Christmas
Caravan, we were able to collect nearly 15,000 pounds of food for charities in
Toronto. Our recipients were the Salvation Army, The Brothers of the Good
Shepherd and the Scott Mission. Monies totaling $480.00 was donated to The
Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund. The Charities picked up the food the morning after Caravan, and as
always, were astounded by the amount of donations. From the drivers to the
heads of the Charities, they wanted to convey to all Marklanders their sincere
thanks. Not only do we want to thank all our residents for their generosity but
also to the following that donated their time and services; All of the Elves that collected the food (old and new) The careful “transport packers” The Pechlof Family for hosting our mid-morning break Toronto Fire Services Metropolitan Toronto Police and Auxiliary Collins and Greig Cartage Ltd. Bruno’s Fine Foods Cardinal Meats Labatt Brewery The “Friday Night Boxers” Topps Limited So many of the Caravaners are regulars year after year. It is with their
dedication and support that the Caravan runs as smoothly as it does. My
sincere thanks for your help. If there is anybody I forgot to mention, I
apologise, but Santa knows who you are. A truly Happy New Year to you all. Sincerely, Martin Ross Chair, Christmas Caravan Markland Homes Association Deadline
for the February issue: Monday January 20th. Please note: All submissions for the Marklander should be sent to: Graham Maguire, 2 Broadfield Drive, 620-4398. If "lengthy", it helps if you send it as a Wordperfect or Word
document to my e-mail address: daffodil@pathcom.com. However, short notes
dropped in my post-box are fine! NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH BULLETIN As part of the Neighbourhood Watch Program, the Toronto Police 22
Division provided the Markland Neighourhood with a Police Dialer. This dialer
provides residents with an automated message, describing criminal activity in
the area and is provided to the Community free of charge. In order to ensure that all residents who want to take advantage of this
service are receiving Police dialer updates, it is necessary for residents to
sign a form authorizing that their phone number be supplied to the Police
Department. If you are not
receiving Police Dialer messages, or you are not sure whether or not you are
on the dialer, please complete the form and return it as soon as possible. Enclosed in this edition of the Marklander is a form to be completed and
returned either to Diane McLeod, or to the Markland Homes Association or
dropped in the Markland Suggestion Box located in the Suburban Drug Mart
(McDonald’s Plaza) – full mailing details are on the bottom of the form. If you require further information, you may contact Diane McLeod at
416-622-2183. School News Millwood Junior School Final touches are being added to crafts, parents are on their way into
the school with their Christmas baking in hand, Secret Santa gifts are placed
under trees and parties are eagerly being anticipated as the week before
Christmas draws to an end. To add to the festive atmosphere, the choir
performed for everyone in the gym at the annual Carol Sing with a selection of
songs, based on the theme of love. As they started in on their favourite
Christmas Carols, they led everyone outdoors, where everyone joined in the
singing, as hot chocolate and candy canes were handed out. Food was collected
for the Daily Food Bank, in addition to the individual efforts of classes to
remember the less fortunate at this time of year. A wonderful prelude to the
holidays – the students and staff at Millwood Junior School would like to
wish everyone in our community a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year! Last month the school had an unexpected visitor. David Reid, the
Director of Education, visited the school and was able to hear, first hand,
about many of the new programs implemented at the school. He was impressed
with the cleanliness of our school, our innovative programs and the
exceptional staff. Millwood continues to be an innovative place for learning! Students are encouraged to act responsibly in order to keep our school
clean, but the majority of effort is put out by our caretakers, Mr. Colangelo
and Mr. Kalinowski. Last month marked the first Caretaker Appreciation Day at
Millwood. Cards and treats were given to the caretakers by students and staff
alike. In between the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, the students at
Millwood have been busy getting educated, too! Several classes made trips out
to the Etobicoke Field Studies center, where they were able to observe animal
habitats in their natural state. The Scientist in the School Program continues
to bring real scientists into classrooms to conduct science experiments with
students and to encourage them to explore all possibilities. Report cards and
parent/teacher interviews took place at the beginning of December, so a bit of
a lighter mood this week has been well deserved! Larissa Bayrachny Silverthorn Collegiate Institute Students have been busy celebrating the numerous religious festivals
that take place in the winter months. All of our classes had the chance to
participate in the Door Decorating Contest. Each class brought in materials
and decorated their door, with creative and hilarious results. Students even
brought in strings of lights, to really give their doors some sparkle!
On December 12th, SCI had its annual Holiday Concert, put on
by the music students. There was a full program, with performances by the
stage band, orchestra, concert band, string ensemble, flute ensemble, and much
more. For the month of December, SCI students were very enthusiastic about
charity work. Our Food Drive was organized by the athletic high-performers of
our school, and classes competed against each other in a contest to donate the
most food items. Every day the homeroom teachers would count the items brought
in, and tally their results. Students were encouraged by the first place prize
of Raptors tickets for each person in the class. Second prize was a pizza
lunch, and third prize was a Tim Horton’s breakfast. For example, my class
of 31 students brought in an incredible 1,109
items for the food bank! Overall,
our school donated more than 6,000
items to this worthy cause. Another school-wide effort was the Adopt-A-Family charity. We were given
a list of things to bring in for the needy family, and numerous clothing items
were donated. SCI’s leadership
class raised enough money to buy the anonymous family a new CD player, which
was on their Christmas wish list. In addition, Prefects sold hundreds of candy
canes to raise money for the Children’s Wish Foundation. A Holiday Assembly was performed by the Leadership Heads’ Council. The Musical Theatre class gave an outstanding performance, complete with solos. The music for our Christmas carol sing-a-long was performed by the Stage Band. The Leadership Heads’ Council gave a hilarious version of the tale of Rudolf the Red-nosed Reindeer, with each character also portraying a teacher from our school! And true to life, we also gave a spin-off of the GAP commercial in the middle of the program, with all our actors dancing and wearing their striped scarves! January is sure to be a very busy month academically as we finish our
first semester courses. This is the time when many Independent Study Units are
due, and students will be studying for the exams scheduled for late in the
month. After that, SCI will breathe a sigh of relief, and the new semester
will start on January 31st. Heather
Foulkes Hats Off On October 24th 2002, at The Old Mill Restaurant, Peter Conacher was
inducted into the Etobicoke Sports Hall of Fame. Born and raised in Toronto,
Pete started his hockey career in the Toronto Hockey League, became Chicago
Blackhawk property at the age of 16. He then played for 3 years with their
O.H.A. Jr. A farm team in Gait before turning professional with Chicago at the
age of 20. A 13-year hockey career followed, with stops with the New York
Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Buffalo A.H.L, St. Louis A.H.L., and Hershey
A.H.L. His professional career was interrupted in 1959, when he joined the
Belleville McFarlands and helped win the World Championship in Prague. In the
summers, he played fastball in the Beaches Major League and senior baseball
for Lizzies at the old Viaduct Stadium. After retiring from professional hockey in 1966, he joined the N.H.L.
Oldtimers Hockey Club and, for the next 13 years, played charity hockey games
across Canada. Pete is still playing old-timers hockey. A past President of
Ontario Special Olympics and a board member of the Charlie Conacher Throat
Cancer Research Fun, Pete recently received the Queen's Golden jubilee Medal
from Senator Frank Mahovlich in recognition of his athletics and community
services in Canada. Pete and his wife Ann have lived on
Conifer Drive for the past 38 years. Church News Bloordale United Church 4258 Bloor St. West. Etobicoke, Ontario, M9C 1Z7 416-621-1710 All
worship services are at 10:30 a.m. St. James United Church 400 Burnhamthorpe Road, Etobicoke (Just west of 427 on the south side of Burnhamthorpe Road.) Phone 622-4113 The Church of Christ the
King 475 Rathburn Road,
Etobicoke Just West of the 427 621-3630 February 2nd:
Annual Vestry Meeting PLEASE PLAN TO ATTEND Also: check us out on our
website http://netcomsolutions-ont.com/Christ_King
Rehoboth Fellowship
Christian Reformed Church
800 Burnhamthorpe Road,
Etobicoke 416-622-9647 Rehoboth Fellowship
Christian Reformed Church, a community church in Markland Wood, invites you to
its worship every Sunday at 10:00 a.m., to its program for people of all ages
and to its fellowship! As its pastor for 15 years
and a resident of Markland Wood, I consider it a privilege to serve you and to
welcome you among us! Reverend John Tenyenhuis. People and Places Parent and Tot Coffee Time On alternate Tuesday
mornings at Bloordale United Church. Rm 13. Coffee is provided, but bring a
snack for your little one. Make a friend, bring a
friend, be a friend. For more information, call
Sylvia at 626-2424. CENTENNIAL PARK SKATING
CLUB This is the 30th
Anniversary of the Centennial Park Skating Club and we will be hosting a 30th
Anniversary Ice Show on May 1st. Guest stars from our National team
will be performing, as well as our own members. Details to follow in future
issues. Centennial Park Skating
Club has been in existence since 1974. We are a non-profit skating
organization that teaches various learn to skate programs for children ages 3
and up, teens and adults. We have on staff 14 coaches, including freeskate and
dance specialists, as well as three adult male dance partners. Some of our
coaches have competed themselves at the national and international level, have
been part of Holiday on Ice around the world, have coached abroad or have been
Judges. Our programs fall under
the auspices of Skate Canada. We offer Canskate and Pre-Can classes on Monday,
Tuesday and Wednesday in the evenings and Saturday afternoon. Our classes are
designed so that siblings of different age groups can be on the ice, learning
at the same time, which makes life easier for Moms and Dads.
Junior/Intermediate/Senior skaters enjoy ice-time every day of the week,
except Sunday. We offer the Starskate test program for them. Also, new this
year, we have an off-ice program, in which our skaters learn to jump, spin and
strengthen their bodies for that all-important "artistic
presentation", when on the ice. We have an Adult and teen
class on Wednesday, from 6:10 to 7:10 p.m. and on Saturday, from 2:10 to 3:10
p.m. Our Saturday class has grown and has become so popular, that we just had
to add Wednesday to our repertoire. Everyone learns to skate under FUN
conditions, with apparatus, toys, music, games and program assistants, who are
children, 12 years of age or older, who have gone through these programs
themselves. We have many theme days and socials during the year, such as
Halloween, Christmas, Valentines and Easter. We also have a recital at the end
of the season. If you are interested in
joining in the fun, while keeping fit, please visit our office on the second
floor of Centennial Arena, East Lounge, or leave us a message at (416)
621-4439. Or visit our website at
www.centennialpark@homestead.com. Calling all high school
students. Need to build some
community hours? Do you know how
to skate well? Why not try our
organization? We are always
looking for responsible persons to help out during our Pre-Can and Canskate
sessions. If you do not skate
there are other opportunities by which to help out.
Give us a call. The
Etobicoke Newcomers Club for Women Are you new to the area? Interested in meeting
other newcomers? Join us every first Tuesday of the month at the Kingsway
Lambton United Church, 85 The Kingsway. Call Maureen, 622-5671, for more
information. The Neilson Park Creative Centre 56 Neilson Drive, Etobicoke ON M9C 1V7 Information: 622-5294 WINTER ART EXHIBITIONS In
the Main Gallery: Until February 16 Renee Edith Gress Painting, prints and wallhangings In the Hall Gallery Until February 16 “The
Yellow Chair” Etobicoke
Art Group An
exhibition of works in a variety of media, all containing the image of the
yellow chair, a prop used for many years by this group. In
the Main gallery February
18-March 9 “The
Joy of Falling” Allan
O’Marra Oils
and watercolours, drawings in graphite and coloured pencil Open: Tues-Sat, 10-4 p.m. Tuesday, 7-9 p.m. Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Wheelchair accessible. Free admission and
parking. www.neilsonparkcreativecentre.com Email: npcc@idirect.com BRIDGE Markland
Wood Marathon Bridge Club We are starting up again in the fall. New members are always welcome.
For more information call: Hugh &
Iris Van Melle at 626-3249. MARKLANDER
STAFF President:
Patrick Clifford Editor:
Graham Maguire Advertising:
Brian Brennand Distribution:
Richard Boehnke Setup
Spalding Creative Printing
Stu McNair Rose's Recipes What better on a cold January day after work or play – but a hot bowl
of soup! I tasted this soup at my girlfriend Fran’s and immediately asked for
the recipe. It tastes great and is so easy to make. I changed it ever so
slightly by using brown rice instead of white and increased the amount from ¼
to 1/3 cup. Also, I do not add salt or parsley. To smooth and blend the soup I
use my Braun hand blender, instead of a blender or food processor. This leaves
tiny pieces of brown rice that adds to the texture and taste of the soup. Try
this on the family after snow sledding or ice-skating. Golden
Carrot Soup 1/4 cup butter 1 sliced medium onion 1 small minced clove of garlic 5 cups water 2 ½ cups sliced carrots ¼ cup long grain rice 2 tablespoon chicken bouillon mix Salt & chopped parsley Melt butter in saucepan. Sauté
the onion and garlic until tender. Add water, bouillon, carrots and rice.
Bring to a boil, cover and simmer 20-25 minutes. Spoon a little at a time into
a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Add salt and parsley to
taste. Makes 4 servings. Community Classified For Sale: Small wire dog cage, with tray. 24”x15”. Like new, dog
simply outgrew it. $40. |