Smog Advisory Continues For York Region

A smog advisory for all of York Region continues today.
Temperatures are expected to rise to 31C and a low of 17C is forecasted with a UV index of 8 or very high.
But warm spring showers may break the smog as there is a 40-per-cent chance of rain and a risk of thunderstorm this evening.
During the smog warnings, you may experience eye irritation.
Heavy outdoor exercise may cause respiratory symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath, and people with heart or lung disease including asthma may experience a worsening of their condition.

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RH Decommissions Halls

Richmond Hill will decommission two of its community halls.
Councillors agreed Monday that Spruce Avenue Hall and the Richmond Hill Lions Hall have reached the end of their useful lives as municipal facilities and it is no longer economically viable to repair them.
The two facilities will be decommissioned on Sept. 1.
Council will rule in September on whether or not to sell the land or convert it to parkland.

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Sports Report

Despite homeruns from Matt Stairs, Alex Rios and John McDonald, the Blue Jays were unable to sweep the Yankees last night, losing 10-5.
Toronto opens a four game series with the Chicago White Sox tonight at the Rogers Centre.
Roy Halladay (4-2) returns to the mound, three weeks after having his appendix removed.
Chicago will counter with Mark Buehrle (2-1).
First pitch: 7:07pm

The Markham Ironheads host the Scarborough Saints tonight.
Game time is 8pm at the Centennial Arena

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

Anaheim 1 Ottawa 0 (Ana. leads 2-0)

IBL

Brantfrod 7 Toronto 2

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Sylvester Found Guilty

Daniel Sylvester has been found guilty of second degree murder in the death of his next-door neighbour, 25-year-old Alicia Ross.
The jury of four men and eight women deliberated for less then four hours yesterday before delivering their verdict.
The conviction carries an automatic life sentence with no chance of parole for at least 10 years.
Ross' mother, Sharon Fortis, sobbed quietly as the jury's decision was announced in the Newmarket courtroom.
The official sentence will be handed down in court on July 4.

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YRP Arrest 3 For Stealing Copper Pipe

York Regional Police brought in a helicopter and dogs to track three suspects allegedly involved in the theft of copper pipe and other materials from a Stouffville construction site earlier this week.
At about 3:30 a.m. Monday, police received word from a security company watching a residential construction site in the 10th Line and Hoover Park Drive area that two people had loaded material into a wheelbarrow.
Maria Fernandes, 20, Emanuel Flor De Andrade, 26, and Florindo Barroso, 20, all of Toronto, are charged with theft over $5,000, possession of stolen property obtained by crime and mischief over $5,000.

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Sports Report

The Blue Jays edged out the New York Yankees 3-2.
Sean Marcum pitching six strong innings, giving up just two hits and striking out six, while Aaron Hill became the third Blue Jay in team history to steal home.
The Jays will try to sweep the series tonight at the Rogers Centre.
Jesse Litsch (1-1) will take on New York's Tyler Clippard (1-1)
First pitch: 7:07pm

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Sylvester Jury Begins Deliberation

After receiving instructions from Justice Edwin Minden this morning, jurors will begin deliberation in Daniel Sylvester's second-degree murder trial.
Following more than two weeks of evidence and testimony from 12 witnesses, the jury must now decide if Alicia Ross' death was an accident or if Sylvester intended to kill her.
On Friday, Jurors heard four hours of closing statements from Crown prosecutor Kelly Wright and Sylvester's defence lawyer, David Hobson.

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Stouffville BURGER KING restaurant celebrates grand re-opening with $1 WHOPPERR Weekend event

Stouffville, ON (May 25, 2007) - Residents of Stouffville can enjoy BURGER
KING's world famous fire-grilled WHOPPER(R) for just $1 during their
WHOPPER(R) Weekend on Saturday, June 2 and Sunday, June 3.

In celebration of this location's new owner and management team, the
restaurant will be offering their flagship sandwich for this incredible
value during a weekend-long customer appreciation event. The WHOPPER(R)
Weekend event kicks off Saturday at 11 am with family fun and prizing
throughout the day, while the buck-a-WHOPPER(R) promotion continues to
Sunday evening. Customers can also visit their local BURGER KING(R) for a
WHOPPER(R) Combo, which is specially priced at $3.00 for the event.

"As a local business, we want to show our appreciation to our loyal
customers and to the community," says Fernando Garza, owner of the
Stouffville BURGER KING(R) restaurant. "This location, under new management,
has instituted some significant operational improvements. Throughout this
transition, the continued support of our customers has been amazing."

WHAT: BURGER KING(R) WHOPPER Weekend

WHERE: 15 Ringwood Drive, Stouffville

WHEN: Saturday, June 2, 11 am to close and Sunday June 3, 11 am to 7 pm

Bird With West Nile Found In Markham

York Region’s first bird with the West Nile virus has turned up in Markham.
A dead crow, testing positive for the virus, was found near the intersection of Hwy. 7 and Ninth Line.
The bird was picked up as part of the region’s West Nile virus program.
Health services requests you report dead crows and blue jays to determine possible West Nile virus activity in York Region.
Residents can contact Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653.

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Sports Report

Justin Morneau homered and drove in three runs as the Minnesota Twins doubled up the Blue Jays 4-2.
The Jays begin a three game series against the New York Yankees tonight at the Rogers Centre.
Dustin McGowan (0-2) will face New York's Andy Pettitte (3-3).
First pitch: 7:07pm

Scoreboard

OLA Jr. "B"

Halton Hills 9 Markham 2

IBL

Kitchener 6 Toronto 4

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RH Man Arrested For Dangerous Driving, Fleeing From Police

A Richmond Hill man has been arrested after he was seen racing with another vehicle and then fleeing from police.
Today at approximately 2 a.m., an officer on patrol observed the vehicle racing at a high rate of speed westbound on Highway 7, west of Keele Street.
The officer attempted to pull the vehicle over but the driver refused to stop and continued
The driver was subsequently arrested without incident and no one was injured.
Charged with dangerous driving and fleeing from police is Shaun Katwaru, 21.
The accused has been held in custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice.

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Crown, Defence Present Closing Arguments

After more than two weeks of evidence and testimony from 12 witnesses, jurors in the Alicia Ross murder trial must now decide if her death was an accident or if next door neighbour Daniel Sylvester, intended to kill her.
After hearing closing statements from Crown prosecutor Kelly Wright and Sylvester's defence lawyer, David Hobson, the jury will receive instructions from Justice Edwin Minden on Monday before delivering their verdict in the second-degree murder trial.
Sylvester, 33, confessed to killing his 25-year-old neighbour after the two exchanged words and fought outside their Thornhill homes in the early hours of Aug. 17, 2005.

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Media Release: Spring Fever on St Clair Kick Off - Monday May 28th, 2007 - 2pm-3pm

For Immediate Release - May 24, 2007

Catch the FEVER…

Experience the diversity of food and flavour on St.Clair from
Bathurst to Dufferin during the 2nd annual Spring Fever on St.Clair,
A Festival of Flavour on May 31ST to June 10th.

Rediscover St.Clair and take a culinary trip around the world.

Spring Fever on St.Clair is an opportunity for consumers to indulge
in international cuisine prepared by excellent chefs at a FIXED PRICE…

Enjoy a FULL 3 course dinner menu at either $20 or $25 dollars during
this week long event….where restaurants serve up international
delights from the four corners of the globe.

Organizer Nadia Ghandour says “Spring Fever On St. Clair involves 16
very diverse and flavourful restaurants, all located in a newly
emerging dining district between Bathurst and Dufferin. This week
features a multitude of special entertainment evenings and is the
perfect destination for family, friends and new comers alike.”

Co-Organzier Jennifer Montesano with Plan B Promotions says “the
diversity of international cuisine at a fixed price gives people the
chance to sample new flavours at an affordable price. Our restaurants
also offer children’s menus and live entertainment too.” She adds,
“Don’t pass up this unprecedented opportunity to come and discover
one of the best kept secret neighbourhoods of Midtown Toronto.


The kick-off of Spring Fever on St.Clair will take place at:
Zemra Bar and Lounge
778 St.Clair Ave West , Toronto ,Ont
Monday May 28th, 2007
Press Conference and Reception
2pm-3pm

Visit www.springfever.ca for menu selection and make your reservations today….

Sports Report

Alex Rios hit a homerun in the tenth inning to give the Blue Jays a 5-4 victory over the Baltimore Orioles last night.
Toronto now heads to Minnesota to begin a three game series against the the Twins this weekend.
Jesse Litsch (1-1) will face Minnesota's Scott Baker (1-0)
First Pitch: 8:10pm.

Scoreboard

OLA Jr. "B"

Clarington 13 Markham 5

Toronto Baseball Association

Thornhill 2 Newmarket 1

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Sylvester Didn't Intend To Kill Ross: Psychiatrist

A forensic psychiatrist at the Alicia Ross murder trial, said that Daniel Sylvester never intended to kill Ross, but acted "merely to make a statement that he had had enough."
Dr. Mark Ben-Aron, a defence witness, told the jury that Sylvester suffered from low self-esteem from an early age.
Ben-Aron said that in his opinion, when Sylvester was called a loser, he acted in an effort to assert himself and out of a feeling of "not wanting to take it anymore," but did not intend to kill the Thornhill woman.
The trial continues on Wednesday.

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Markham Man Charged After Fatal Hit And Run

A Markham man has turned himself in to Toronto Police after being involved in a fatal hit and run collision.
On May 20, a Chevrolet Equinox SUV headed west on Steeles Avenue at Midland Avenue, when it struck and killed Jin Lan Liu, 58, of Markham.
Shane Sheerahamed, 20, of Markham, surrendered to police today.
He is charged with failing to stop after an accident involving death and is scheduled for a court appearance on June 29.

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YRP Discover Grow-Op in Vaughan; Child Taken In By CAS

York Regional Police have charged a man and a woman after the execution of two search warrants led to the discovery of a grow operation in a house in the City of Vaughan and a quantity of dried marijuana located in another home.
On May 16, a search warrant was executed on a home located on Jaimie Road.
More than 240 plants were located in the home and two people were arrested.
A four-year-old child was located living in another home that the couple owned on St. Damian Avenue.
The child was subsequently taken into the care of the Children’s Aid Society.
The two accused are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Newmarket today.

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Crown Wraps Up Case At Ross Murder Trial

In the final day of testimony from Crown witnesses at the Alicia Ross murder trial, the court heard how Ross' remains could have decomposed as quickly as one week after they were dumped in a remote area.
The jury also heard from a forensic expert, who said the multiple fractures inflicted on Ross' rib cage are more consistent with injuries suffered by victims of an airplane crash, fatal vehicle collision or a soldier killed during a war.
The defence team of accused killer Daniel Sylvester will open its case on Tuesday.
They are only expected to call one witness.

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Man Charged With 20-Year-Old Sex Assault

A Newmarket man has been charged by York Regional Police with the sexual assault of a young girl two decades ago.
The girl, who was eight years old at the time, was allegedly victimized while visiting the man's daughter — who was the same age — at a Newmarket home between January 1986 and December 1987.
According to police, the incident was reported on behalf of the victim by a family member in November 2006.
Dennis Renner of Newmarket was arrested at his home Wednesday and is charged with sexual assault.

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Sports Report

The Blue Jays begin interleague play and a three games series this weekend against the Philadelphia Philllies.
Toronto has won five of their last six games and recently swept Baltimore in a three-game set.
Dustin McGowan (0-0) will be on the mound for the Jays, while the Phillies counter with Jon Lieber (1-2).
First pitch is at 7:05pm in Philadelphia.

According to a report in the Toronto Star, talks between the agent of Raptors head coach Sam Mitchell and GM Byran Colangelo have been going well and a new deal could be finished next week.
Mitchell was named the NBA's coach of the year after he led the Raptors to 47 wins, the Atlantic Division title and their first playoff appearance in five seasons.

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

Anaheim 5 Detroit 3 (Series tied 2-2)

OLA Jr. "B"

Oakville 14 Markham 2

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Crown Expected To Rest In Ross Murder Trial

The Crown will rest in the Alicia Ross murder trial today after eight days of testimony, during which her killer's own words formed the cornerstone of its case.
Crown prosecutor Kelly Wright told jurors on day one of the trial that she would prove Ross' next door neighbour, Daniel Sylvester, 33, intended to kill the 25-year-old Thornhill woman.
Sylvester's lawyers are expected to begin their defence as early as tomorrow.

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YRP Look For Thornhill Arson Suspect

York Regional Police have identified a suspect in more than a dozen arsons in Thornhill.
Between April 21 and 25 and May 5 and 12, there were several fires involving grass clippings and yard waste left at the end of driveways.
The fires, which appear to have been intentionally set, started in the early morning.
Residents are beings asked to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity; especially those who live on the following streets: Lunau Lane, Lindemann Street, Lambert Road, Green Lane, Bayview Avenue, Ravencliffe Road, Willowbrook Road and Huntington Park Drive.
The suspect is described as a white male in his late teens or early 20s.
Anyone with information, is urged to call police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7241, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or leave a tip at www.1800222tips.com

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Sports Report

Blue Jays 2 Baltimore 1
TFC 1 Houston 0
Buffalo 3 Ottawa 2 (Ott. leads 3-1)

Tonight: Ironheads at Oakville

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Ground Broken On New Buisness Centre

Ground was broken today on the new Woodbine Business Centre.
The condominium retail and professional centre on Woodbine Avenue, north of Hwy. 7, was started when the owners, Mady Development Corporation, was looking for a Markham location for their own office.
Mayor Frank Scarpitti said 70 seemed to be the magic number of the day, seeing as the 70,000-square-foot facility will house 70 units, which are now 70 per cent sold.

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Safe Boating Awareness Week

In keeping with the ongoing commitment to safe boating this Victoria Day long weekend, the York Regional Police Marine Unit is reminding boaters that May 19 to 25, is Safe Boating Awareness Week.
As boating season approaches, Police remind citizens that most fatalities on the water are preventable if smart choices are made up front.
For more information on Safe Boating Awareness Week, visit www.boatingsafety.gc.ca

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Sylvester Denies Sexually Assaulting Ross At Murder Trial

Daniel Sylvester stated to police that he never sexually assaulted his neighbour Alicia Ross.
Sylvester made the revelation during a taped interview with police shortly after Ross was killed on Aug. 17, 2005.
The tape was played for the jury of eight women and four men in the Newmarket courtroom.
On the recording, a police officer asked Sylvester if a forensic analysis would find traces of semen on the garbage bag of bloody clothes he dumped in a wooded area.
Sylvester said material would likely be found.
However, he said he masturbated after disposing Ross' body and it was a way to relieve stress.
Sylvester has pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder.
He has admitted to causing Ross' death, but has denied it was murder.

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Sports Report

The Blue Jays defeated the Baltimore Orioles last night 2-1.
Toronto got a spectacular performance from Jesse Litsch, who made his major league debut.
The rookie pitched 8.2 innings, giving up just four hits and one earned run.
The Jays will try to complete the series sweep at the Rogers Centre tonight.
A.J. Burnett (3-3) will face Baltimore's Brian Burres (1-1).
First pitch is at 7:07pm

Toronto FC host the Houston Dynamo tonight.
TFC will be without forward Danny Dichio, who was suspended for tonight's game after receiving a red card during Saturday's match against Chicago.
Game time is 7pm at BMO Field.

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

Detroit 5 Anaheim (Det. leads 2-1)

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Missing RH Man Found Dead

Foul play is not suspected in the death of a missing Richmond Hill man.
The body of Dimitrios Kollias was pulled from the Grand River in Cambridge on Sunday.
Kollias was last seen by a family member at his Richmond Hill home on May 9.
His body was taken to Hamilton for an autopsy, which was scheduled for Monday.

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Alberta Man Charged With Sexual Assault In Georgina

York Regional Police have charged a man with Sexual Assault in the town of Georgina.
On May 10, a 17-year-old girl was walking on Baseline Road when she was approached by a man, who attacked her, dragged her into a ditch and sexually assaulted her.
The victim was able to break free and run to a house nearby for assistance.
The suspect fled on foot but was arrested at a local establishment.
The victim suffered minor injuries but did not require medical attention.
Charged with sexual assault is David Lee Morrow, 20, of Alberta.

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Sports Report

Troy Glaus hit a two-run homer in the 8th inning as the Blue Jays defeated the Baltimore Orioles 5-3.
Glaus returned to the lineup after missing a couple of games with a foot injury that has been plaguing him all season.
Game two of the series is tonight at the Rogers Centre.
Jesse Litsch (0-0) will make his major league debut while Baltimore counters with Daniel Cabrera (3-3)
First pitch is at 7:07pm.

Raptors President and General Manager Byran Colangelo was named the NBA's Executive of the year yesterday.
Colangelo rebuilt the struggling Raptors and turned them into a winning team that captured the Atlantic Division title.
This is the second time Colangelo has received this award.
The first time was in 2005 when he was running the Phoenix Suns.

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

Ottawa 1 Buffalo 0 (Ott. leads 3-0)

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Six Hurt After W-S Crash

Six people were injured, one of them seriously, after a head-on collision in Whitchurch-Stoufville Sunday night.
Ontario Provincial Police said one of the vehicles caught fire after the accident, which occurred on Highway 48 between Vivian Rd. and Cherry St.
The accident blocked the highway for four hours.
One woman was taken to Southlake Regional Health Centre in Newmarket with serious injuries.
Five other people were taken to Southlake and Markham-Stoufville Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

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RH Man Missing

York Regional Police are asking for the public's help in locating a missing Richmond Hill man.
Dimitrios Kollias was seen on May 9 after being released from Cambridge Memorial Hospital, where he was treated for injuries sustained in a traffic accident.
Police and Kollias' family are concerned for his well-being as he suffers from depression and requires medication, which he does not have with him.
He is described as Male, white, 5’10”, 150 lbs., short, dark-brown hair, blue eyes and unshaven.
He was wearing a black nylon jacket, dark blue track-pants, a white golf shirt and white Nike running
shoes.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7241, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

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Sports Report

The Blue Jays' mini two-game winning streak is over after falling to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays 2-1.
The loss spoiled a great outing by Sean Marcum who pitched six hitless innings and struck out seven batters.
The Jays begin a three-game series with the Baltimore Orioles at the Rogers Centre tonight.
Tomo Okha (2-4) will face Baltimore's Erik Bedard (3-2).
First pitch is at 7:07pm.

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

Anaheim 4 Detroit 3 (Series tied 1-1)

OHL Playoffs

Plymouth 3 Sudbury 2 (Plymouth wins 4-2)

IBL

Toronto 7 Oshawa 0

OLA Jr. "B"

Clarington 14 Markham 6

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UPDATE: 16th Avenue Closed After Crash

An unidentified female pedestrian in her 70s was struck and killed on 16th Avenue between Shorthill Road and McCowan Ave.
According to York Regional Police, the woman was hit by a vehicle at 7:20 a.m. and pronounced dead shortly after.
Traffic division officers are continuing their investigation.
The name of victim has not been released.
The stretch of 16th Avenue remains closed.

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Sylvester Describes Ross' Murder

The accused killer of Alicia Ross broke down and cried as he admitted to killing his next-door neighbour in a videotaped police statement shown to jurors by prosecutors on Thursday.
Daniel Sylvester, who pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder, gave his version of what happened in the early morning hours of Aug. 17, 2005, the day the 25-year-old Thornhill woman went missing.
The videotape was part of a series of taped police interviews played by prosecutors for the eight women and four men on the jury in the Newmarket courtroom.
On the recording, Sylvester tells police he went for a walk around 1:30 a.m on the grassy path that separated his home from Ross'.
That's where he encountered Ross who swore at him and asked him what he was doing there.
Sylvester says he then attacked Ross, followed by a fight between the two, which ultimately led to her death.

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16th Avenue Closed After Crash

16th Avenue from Shorthill road to McCowan Avenue has been closed following a serious accident, according to York Regional Police.
Details of the accident and when the stretch of road will re-open, have not yet been released.

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Sports Report

The Blue Jays lost their ninth straight game after getting shutout by the Boston Red Sox 8-0.
Toronto also received some bad news on the injury front as closer BJ Ryan had "Tommy John" surgery and is out for the rest of the season.
Pitcher Victor Zambrano was also placed on the 15-Day Disabled List with an arm strain.
The Jays begin a weekend series against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays at the Rogers Centre.
AJ Burnett (2-3) will face Tampa's Steve Kazmir (2-1).
First pitch is at 7:07pm.

The Markham Ironheads (Jr. "B" Lacrosse) host the Scarborough Saints tonight.
Game time is 8pm at the Centennial Arena.

Toronto FC host the Chicago Fire.
Saturday, 3:30pm, BMO Field.

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

Ottawa 5 Buffalo 2 (Ott. leads 1-0)

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Lawyer Accuses Boyfriend Of Planting Evidence

A lawyer for accused killer Daniel Sylvester suggested Wednesday that the boyfriend of Alicia Ross planted evidence to incriminate his client.
Defence lawyer David Hobson accused Sean Hine of placing a cigarette, a glass and sandals in the Ross family's backyard to make it look like Sylvester had deliberately murdered the 25-year-old Thornhill woman.
Hine had told police he thought whoever had killed Ross may have hit her from behind and dragged her away because of the way the items were situated on the grass in a straight line.
Hine denied he had placed the items in the yard.
Jurors were also shown photos of the victim's remains, which made many onlookers in the courtroom uncomfortable.

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Press Release: Markham Council Approves 2007 Town Budget

MARKHAM, ON ~ Markham Council approved its 2007 budget at its meeting May 8.

This year's budget results in a 3.98 per cent tax increase to the Town's share of the total residential tax bill. Markham's tax rate increase is the lowest for the urban municipalities in York Region and one of the lowest in the Greater Toronto Area. The average impact for residents is $40.20 on the Markham share of the tax bill.

Overall, Markham receives about 25.5 cents of every dollar of residential property taxes collected, with the remainder divided between education (25.9 cents) and the Region of York (48.6 cents).

When the Budget was presented to the community on April 16, a 4.59 per cent increase in the tax levy was proposed. Mayor Frank Scarpitti said, "This was reduced following input from residents and review by the Town's budget sub-committee and staff."

For the business community, Markham's commercial and industrial tax rates continue to be among the lowest in the Greater Toronto Area.

The 2007 Operating Budget is $151.4 million, the Capital Budget is $91.5 million, the Waterworks Budget is 50.1 million and the Building Standards Budget is $8 million, for a total of $301 million. This compares to a total budget of $269 million in 2006. The Budget was set, taking into account a 3.08 per cent increase in assessment growth in the Town.

"We have maintained our policy of not using one-time funding to balance the operating budget," said Budget Chief, Ward 6 Councillor Dan Horchik. "Within this budget, we are funding our environmental initiatives and supporting the many programs and services we provide to our residents. We also continue to ramp-up for future expenditures for staffing our new community centres, libraries and fire stations."

"This is the greenest budget Markham has ever produced. At the same time, finding value for tax dollars was one of our most important guiding principles," said Mayor Scarpitti. "For example, we partnered with local soccer organizations and the York Region District School Board, committing funds to develop Markham's first fully-lit artificial turf sportsfields at the high school being built in the Markham Centre area."

"With this year's budget we continue to maintain and improve our service levels for fire, parks, recreation and roads, while accommodating for growth. We addressed our environmental initiatives and transportation needs. Our budget builds on our quality communities and my commitment to diversity," said Mayor Scarpitti.

Throughout the fall and winter, we received presentations by Town business units and an economic forecast which examined current trends and pressures. During the public budget sub-committee meetings and community consultation, we developed funding plans for the many initiatives. The result is the 2007 budget, which supports our community priorities," said Budget Chief Horchik.

Budget pressures include the effect of wage settlements, inflation, municipal service contract escalations, and complying with the requirements of provincial legislation.

New programs funded by the Town this year include enhanced tree planting initiatives, the development of new bike routes and pedestrian pathways, and an expanded community mailbox recycling program.

Some of the key projects and priorities funded in the 2007 budget include:

Environment

• Addition of hybrid vehicles to Town vehicle inventory
• Funding for a works program aimed at generally improving the Town's watercourses and to help control erosion
• An enhanced Mission Green initiative – the recycling and anti-litter programs – at special events
• Support for the Markham Energy Conservation Office and Markham Environmental Sustainability Fund
• Development of a pesticide-free turf maintenance program for parks
• Maintenance for 33 additional hectares of parkland
• Enhanced tree planting initiatives
• Expansion to the community mailbox recycling (anti-litter) project
• Increased waste diversion/recycling programs in apartment buildings throughout the Town

Diversity

• Markham is developing a diversity strategy specifically for its organization
• Celebrate Markham grants to community groups and organizations
• Development of a translation policy for Town communications to residents
• Support to the CareerBridge internship program which provides Canadian work experience for new immigrants who have professional experience in their former country

Transportation and Transit

• Widening of Rodick Road from Miller Avenue to 14th Avenue
• Service for 55 new kilometres of roads
• $5.6 million for road resurfacing and improvements
• Construction of the first phase of Birchmount Road from 14th to Enterprise
• Improvements to bridges and culverts, including the Reesor Road bridge replacement in Ward 5 and the John Street bridge in Ward 1
• Construction of new sidewalks
• Further development of bike routes and pedestrian pathways
• Additional funding for the Transportation Demand Management program

Quality Communities and Safe Streets

• Funding for the construction of Markham's first artificial turf sportsfields
• $4.3 million funding for new parks, including Grand Cornell, White's Park, Greensborough and Wismer
• $3.2 million funding for the construction of a new fire station
• Development of tennis courts and a waterplay area in Berczy Park
• Design and construction of a community park and waterplay area in the East Cathedral community
• $500,000 for the Markham Public Libraries annual building program
• Construction of the new Ward building at Markham Museum
• Traffic calming measures for six streets under the Safe Streets program

Water and Sewer Programs
Waterworks is funded from water/wastewater revenues. Programs planned include:

• Watermain replacement on Steeles Avenue from Yonge Street to Henderson Avenue
• A sewer system upgrade program, using trenchless technology, for structural and service repairs
• Ongoing installation of corrosion protection for watermains to improve and maintain water quality

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Sports Report

The Boston Red Sox beat the Blue Jays last night 9-3.
The Sox were led by pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka, who pitched seven strong innings, allowing just one earned run on five hits and striking out eight.
The loss extends Toronto's winless streak to eight games.
The final game of the series is tonight at the Rogers Centre.
Roy Halladay (4-1) will face Boston's Tim Wakefield (3-3).
First pitch: 7:07pm.

Scoreboard

OHL Playoffs

Plymouth 3 Sudbury 1 (Series tied 2-2)

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YRP Officer Charged With Assault

A York Regional Police officer has pleaded guilty to assault in connection with a traffic stop in Vaughan last November.
A 40-year-old Vaughan resident was stopped by police on Nov. 11.
He was arrested for refusing to provide a roadside breath sample and placed in the back of a police cruiser.
An officer who arrived in a different cruiser approached the man and assaulted him.
The man suffered facial injuries as a result.
Const. Ryan Venables, who was arrested in December, was given a suspended sentence with 18 months of probation.

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Jurors Look At Photos, Hear From Boyfriend

Crown prosecutors in the Alicia Ross murder trial, showed the jury pictures to prove her accused killer, Daniel Sylvester, tried to cover up the crime.
Jurors heard how police recovered a pair of underwear with Sylvester's name written in them, along with a wallet containing identification, including a health card with his name and photo on it.
The jury also heard from Sean Hine, Ross' former boyfriend.
Hine testified that he thought about spending the night at Ross' home in Thornhill but decided to leave around midnight on Aug. 16, 2005.

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Markham Woman Missing

York Regional Police are looking for a 28-year-old Markham woman.
Quin (Janet) Gong was last seen on April 25 leaving her workplace at 4675 Steeles Ave.
She was heading towards the Kennedy Road and Denison Street area but didn’t arrive and has not been seen since.
She is described as Asian, light complexion, 132 lbs., five-feet, seven-inches tall, with a thin build, brown eyes and black shoulder-length straight hair.
She speaks Cantonese and very little English.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7451,Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online at www.1800222tips.com

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Sports Report

The Boston Red Sox hit a total of four homeruns, en route to a 9-2 victory over the Blue Jays last night.
With the loss, Toronto's winless streak is now at 7 games.
Game two of the series takes place tonight at the Rogers Centre.
It will be an all-Japanese match up as Tomo Okha (2-3) faces Boston's Daisuke Matsuzaka (3-2)
First pitch is at 7:07pm.

Ryan Benesch of the Toronto Rock was named the National Lacrosse League's rookie of the year yesterday.
Benesch led all rookies with 33 goals and 58 points.

Scoreboard

OHL Playoffs

Sudbury 5 Plymouth 4 (Sudbury leads 2-1)

OLA Jr."B"

Barrie 13 Markham 3

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'Sylvester Intended To Kill Ross,' Crown Prosecutor

A Newmarket court heard yesterday how Alicia Ross was killed just steps from the front door of her family's Thornhill home following a confrontation with her next door neighbour.
In the opening day of the murder trial, the jury heard how a run-in between Ross and her neighbour, Daniel Sylvester, escalated into a violent fight, lasting only a few minutes.
In her opening remarks, Crown prosecutor Kelly Wright said she rejected Sylvester's bid to plead guilty to manslaughter.
Wright told the jury that Sylvester's actions demonstrated that he intended to kill Ross.
Sylvester has been charged with second-degree murder.

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U-Ville Fire Displaces 16

More than 50 firefighters and nine pumper trucks battled a noon-hour blaze in Unionville that destroyed 16 seniors' units.
No fatalities were reported.
All but one of the 16 displaced residents have been accounted for.
Staff at the Unionvilla facility are contacting the family of one female resident, who reportedly, was at a doctor's appointment when the fire started.
A roof fire near 37 Anna Russell Way was reported at 12:27 p.m. and by the time crews arrived, the fire had spread to the row of attached homes.
By about 1:30 p.m., the fire was extinguished.
The cause of the blaze has not been determined.

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Sports Report

Troy Glaus was named the American League's Player of the week.
The Blue Jays third basemen batted .400, with four homeruns, 7 RBIs and 8 runs.
The Jays begin a three-game series against the Boston Red Sox tonight at the Rogers Centre.
Victor Zambrano (0-1) will face Boston's Josh Beckett (6-0).
First pitch is at 7:07pm.

Toronto FC have announced they will play two exhibition matches against European club teams.
The FC will take on Portugal's Benfica on July 23 and England's Aston Villa on July 25.
Both games will be played at BMO field.

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

Detroit 2 San Jose 0 (Det. wins 4-2)

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Ross Murder Trial Begins

The murder trial of a man charged with killing 25-year-old Alicia Ross is underway in a Newmarket courtroom.
Daniel Sylvester tried to plead guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter last week, but was denied.
He has been charged with second-degree murder.
A jury of eight women and four men will begin hearing testimony today.
Ross went missing from her Thornhill residence on Aug. 17, 2005.

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RH Man Out Of Hospital, In Rehab

A Richmond Hill man who plunged off a roof in Markham last month is out of hospital and in rehab, according to the province's Special Investigations Unit.
The unit interviewed medical personnel from Markham Stouffville Hospital last week in its investigation of the April 10 incident.
The 26-year-old man, who is believed to have been a mental health patient, fled from Markham Stouffville Hospital, then fell from a garage in the Cornell area.
The SIU is now probing and verifying all evidence to determine the circumstances of the man's injuries and what role, if any, police played.

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Emergency Preparedness Week In Markham

The Town of Markham has declared May 6-12, Emergency Preparedness Week.
Residents can identify and learn about risks in the community and how they can protect themselves from potential hazards and disasters.
The public is invited to visit the Town of Markham Emergency Management Program display at the Markville Shopping Centre until May 12.

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Sports Report

AJ Burnett struck out nine batters, but surrendered three solo home runs as the Texas Rangers beat the Blue Jays 3-2, sweeping the three game series.
Toronto extended their losing streak to six games and are five games below the .500 mark.
The Jays have the day off before starting a new series with Boston on Tuesday.

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

Buffalo 5 New York 4 (Buf. wins 4-2)

OHL Playoffs

Sudbury 7 Plymouth 3 (Series tied 1-1)

IC Baseball

Toronto 7 Barrie 3

OLA Jr. "B"

Mississauga 9 Markham 5

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YRP Searches For Vaughan Robber

York Regional Police are asking for your help to catch a bank robber tied to two heists in Vaughan.
According to police, he most recently struck in Woodbridge on Wednesday.
At about 1:30 p.m., the man walked into the TD Canada Trust at 124 Woodbridge Ave. and gave the teller a note, which said he was armed and dangerous and wanted cash.
Hold-up unit investigators have linked the man to another robbery at a Woodbridge ScotiaBank on April 16.
The suspect is described as male, of Hispanic descent, in his late teens to early 20s, five-feet, seven-inches tall with a medium to heavy build, clean shaven with acne and thick lips.
On Wednesday, he was wearing a white hoodie pulled over a black baseball cap.
Anyone with information, is urged to call police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7873, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or leave a tip at www.1800222tips.com

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Restaurant Issues Apology

A Richmond Hill restaurant that initially denied claims it had refused entry to a Sikh man because of his turban has issued an apology.
In a news release sent yesterday Andrew Taranowski, the co-owner of the Marlowe Restaurant and Wine Bar, apologized to all customers and individuals who were offended by the incident.
Gaurav Singh, who describes himself as a "proud turban-wearing Sikh," demanded the apology after saying he was denied admission to the Marlowe last Saturday night because of his religious headgear.

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Sports Report

The Raptors are in New Jersey for Game 6 of their best of seven series.
PG Jose Calderon is expected to play after rolling his ankle in Game 5.
Meanwhile, the status of fellow PG TJ Ford is still unknown.
Ford left Game 5 with a "neck stinger."
Tip off is at 8pm.
New Jersey leads the series 3-2.

The Blue Jays jumped out to a 4-0 lead, but were unable to hold on, as the Cleveland Indians beat Toronto 6-5; sweeping the three game series.
Cleveland's Grady Seizemore knocked in the winning run in the 8th inning, while Troy Glaus hit a two-run homer for the Jays.
Toronto is in Texas to begin a three game series with the Rangers.
Tomo Ohka (2-2) will face the Rangers' Brandon McCarthy (1-4).

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

Anaheim 2 Vancouver 1 (Ana. wins 4-1)

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YRP Use Chopper To Find Grow-Op

York Regional Police have closed down a Maple marijuana grow operation, after its location was confirmed from the sky with a heat identifying camera mounted on the force's helicopter.
According to police, officers in the chopper spotted a home on Rideway Court, in the Jane Street and Major Mackenzie Drive area, emitting heat consistent with a pot grow.
That information was given to drug officers who later searched the home with a warrant, turning up a fully functioning grow-op and more than 160 plants in various stages of growth.
The hydro had also been stolen.
Hythme Nassr of Vaughan is charged with production of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking and theft of electricity.
He is scheduled to appear in a Newmarket court on June 7.

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450 Charges Laid During Seat-Belt Campaign

York Regional Police have announced that more than 450 drivers and passengers were charged during the provincial seat-belt campaign between April 18 and 30.
This year’s campaign emphasized the new law that permits only as many people in a car as there are seat-belts.
During a one-week campaign last year, 320 drivers and passengers were charged.
Drivers must wear seat-belts at all times and are responsible for ensuring anyone under 16 in their vehicle is properly restrained.

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Woman Struck By SUV

A woman is in hospital after being struck by a vehicle on McCowan Road in Markham yesterday.
Just before 5 p.m., the woman — identified by a friend as Wendy Cowie — was crossing at the intersection of McCowan and Heritage Road, after getting off a bus when she was struck.
A witness said a black GMC Denali SUV was involved in the collision.
According to the witness, Cowie was in the pedestrian crosswalk.
McCowan was blocked by emergency crews as Cowie was loaded onto a stretcher but the road reopened shortly after.

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Sports Report

The Blue Jays were defeated by the Cleavland Indians 7-6 in extra innings.
Despite scoring six runs, Toronto had difficulty when it came to scoring opportunities, leaving a total of 14 men on base.
The final game of the series goes tonight in Cleavland at 7pm.
Dustin McGowan (0-0) makes his 2007 debut against Cleavland's Cliff Lee (0-0).

The CFL held it's entry draft yesterday.
The Argonauts didn't make their first pick until the 4th round, when they selected LB Eric Maranda from Lavel.
Toronto also drafted TE Steve Schmidt, DL Shawn Simms, and WR Brad Smith.

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

Ottawa 3 New Jersey 2 (Ott. leads 3-1)
Detroit 3 San Jose 2 (Series tied 2-2)

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Man Impersonates Police Officer

York Regional Police are looking for a man who posed as an officer to rob a teenager in Vaughan.
On Saturday at about 7:30 p.m., a 17-year-old boy and two relatives, were driving near the intersection of Fossil Hill Road and Fontebella Avenue when they were stopped by a man driving a black Toyota Corolla with a blue flashing light on the dash.
The man, who said he was a security officer and worked part-time for the police, told the teenager he had caught him speeding and demanded identification.
The man then took cash and property.
Police describe the suspect as male, of south Asian descent with dark skin, 20-years-old, five-feet, nine-inches tall with a medium build, short dark hair, a goatee and dark eyes.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7441, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or leave a tip online at www.1800222tips.com

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Sports Report

Despite nearly giving up the lead late in the 4th quarter, the Raptors managed to hold on and beat the Nets in Game 5, 98-96.
Jose Calderon led Toronto, scoring a career high 25 points.
However, the Spanish point guard had to leave with 27 seconds left in the game, after spraining his ankle.
His status is unknown.
TJ Ford also left the game with an injury to his back.
Game 6 is set for Friday in New Jersey.
The Nets lead the series 3-2.

The Blue Jays jumped out to 3-0 lead in the first inning, but it wasn't enough as the Cleavland Indians scored four runs in the third, en route to a 12-4 win.
Clevland's Jhonny Peralta went 2 for 4, hitting a homerun and picking up five RBIs.
Game 2 of the series goes tonight at 7:05pm.
Victor Zambrano (0-1) will make his first start of the season, facing Cleavland's Jake Westbrook (1-2).

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

New York 2 Buffalo 1 (Series tied 1-1)
Anaheim 3 Vancouver 2 (Ana. leads 3-1)

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Man Hit With Rock

York Regional Police are looking for a man in his mid-20s after an Aurora man was smashed in the head with a rock Saturday morning.
Just after 2 a.m., officers showed up to the Nava Restaurant and Bar at 125 York Blvd., in the Hwy. 7 and East Beaver Creek area of Richmond Hill.
Officers were told a 27-year-old Aurora man had been hit in the head after an argument and minor assault inside the bar.
The victim suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
He was treated at hospital and released.
The suspect is a male, with olive skin and short dark hair, in his mid-20s and six-feet tall.
He was wearing dark clothing with a white undershirt.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7241, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or leave a tip at www.1800222tips.com

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Press Release: Vaughan In Motion’s Walk to Cure Cancer

Vaughan In Motion’s Walk to Cure Cancer

“Some walked to honour a mother or father lost to cancer; some walked to support a friend fighting cancer!”

Whatever the motivation – over 800 walkers crammed into the Vaughan Mills food court on Sunday morning, April 29th at 10:00 am; the volunteers held hands and started the 5 km Walk – just 3 and half
times around the mall.

“Our main objective is to raise awareness that this disease can be beaten, to raise money for research and cancer care, and to have fun! That is why we showcase local musical talent as well as the Reptilia Show”, said Chair Peter Badali.

“We doubled the number of walkers over last year and doubled the pledges collected. 100% of the over $40,000.00 pledged will go directly to the Canadian Cancer Society.”

Since its very first walk this local based volunteer only driven group has donated over $400,000.00 to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Peter Badali continued: “Our deep felt thanks go the over 800 walkers as well as the over 100 volunteers that made the Walk go smoothly. And our very special thanks to all of our generous sponsors for the
advertising and incentive prizes”

For more information please call Peter Badali at 416-821-6061.

Thank you.

http://www.vaughaninmotion.com

Man Charged For Gas Station Robberies

A 20-year-old man has been charged in connection with two robberies at the same Markham gas station.
On April 22 and 25, a man walked into the Petro-Canada at 9249 Ninth Line, armed with a knife and demanded cash
A few days after the second robbery, officers arrested the man in the Ninth Line and 16th Avenue area.
A search of his home, near the gas station, yielded scratch lottery tickets, clothing matching what was worn during the heists and a knife.
Ryan Adam Georgiadis of Markham was charged with two counts each of robbery, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, disguise with intent and four counts of breach of probation.
He is scheduled to make another court appearance on May 2.

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Sports Report

The Raptors host the New Jersey Nets tonight in Game 5 of their best-of-seven first round series.
Down three games to one, Toronto must win tonight's game or their season will be over.
Tip off is at 7pm at the Air Canada Centre.
TJ Ford will be a gametime decision.
The Raptors' starting point guard is dealing with the flu and had to be sent home from yesterday's practise.

Roy Halladay pitched his second straight complete game and picked up his fourth win of the season, as the Blue Jays beat the Texas Rangers 6-1.
Halladay went the distance giving up just one earned run on five hits, while striking out eight.
The Jays are in Cleavland this evening to begin a three-game series with the Indians.
AJ Burnett (2-1) will face Cleavland's CC Sabathia (3-0) at 7pm.
Meanwhile, pitcher Gustavo Chacin has been placed on the 15-day disabled list with a strained shoulder.
Dustin McGowen is expected to be called up from Syracuse to replace Chacin.

Scoreboard

NHL Playoffs

Ottawa 2 New Jersey 0 (Ott. leads 2-1)
San Jose 2 Detroit 1 (SJ leads 2-1)

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