Huntsville, Ontario – November 30, 2009 - The anticipation builds, as the 11th annual Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Snow Run is a few short months away! This all-women snowmobile event raises funds to support women with their fight against breast cancer. The 11th annual event takes place in Huntsville, Ontario on February 6, 2010.
Response has been phenomenal for the 2010 ride, be sure to register early to ensure your spot! This fun packed day will take place at the wonderful Hidden Valley Resort in Huntsville, Ontario. There are choices of trails depending on each participant’s preference and skill. Everyone is encouraged to come and be a part of this magnificent event. Space is still available but the resort is filling up quickly, we encourage any participants to register as early as possible. Special thanks to all our sponsors for their support with special mention to our platinum level sponsors – BRP Inc., Choko Designs, FXR Racing, Factory Recreation in Midland, Ontario, Royal Distributing and The Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show. With special surprises planned all weekend, this is one event you will not want to miss! Come out and enjoy a wonderful experience for a great cause.
To help raise additional funds this year, a raffle will be held on February 6th, 2010 with prizes including a 2010 MXZ SPORT 600 Ski-Doo (donated by Factory Recreation, Midland & BRP Inc., a $500.00 Royal Distributing gift certificate (donated by Royal Distributing) and a stay for two at Hidden Valley Resort (donated by Hidden Valley Resort). Tickets are only $10.00 each and can be obtained by contacting our office at 1-877-436-6467.
The theme behind the Snow Run is women helping women. The ride is designed to raise these needed funds in financially assisting women with their fight against breast cancer. Participants are encouraged to raises pledges for the charity. Everything from the pledges to raffles and live/silent auctions are done to help raise funds for these women who need it. The Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Snow Run is a registered Canadian charity that raises money for the women who need it. Helping to financially assist women diagnosed with breast cancer, as there are many unforeseen expenses faced which health insurance programs may not cover. The trust provides this assistance to women in these circumstances in order to make their fight with cancer a little less challenging.
We are excited to advise that the Quebec Chapter will be hosting its fifth annual Quebec Randonee de Neiges de Kelly Shires contre le cancer du sein will take place on February 28, 2010 at the Four Points by Sheraton in Quebec City.
For more information on the event or to apply to the trust:
1-877-436-6467 WWW.BREASTCANCERSNOWRUN.ORG
Suzy Stenoff, Co-founder & Director of Media Relations, mediarelations@breastcancersnowrun.org
Monday, November 30, 2009
Conservation program’s success earns award for PowerStream Electric utility recognized for high percentage increase in peaksaver ® sign-ups
VAUGHAN, ON – PowerStream Barrie Hydro Distribution earned recognition from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance (OCAA) recently for dramatically increasing the number of households participating in its peaksaver® conservation program. Over a six-month period, the company increased customer participation in the program by 282.8 percent, the highest percentage increase recorded by any utility in Ontario during that time.
PowerStream Barrie Hydro Distribution was one of three Ontario electricity distribution companies identified by OCAA in the organization’s annual PeakBusters Utility Challenge, a peaksaver competition which recognizes utilities that had the largest percentage increase in program participants within their respective service territories between March 31 and Sept. 30, 2009. Complete results from the competition are available online at http://www.peakbusters.ca/utility.php .
According to figures provided by the Ontario Power Authority (OPA), PowerStream Barrie Hydro Distribution on April 1 of this year had 2,152 registered OPA-funded participants in the peaksaver program. By the end of September that number had been increased to 8,238, an increase of over 6,000 in just six months.
The peaksaver program continues to be one of the PowerStream Barrie Hydro Distribution’s most successful conservation initiatives. Since the end of the contest period, another 1,650 households have been added. Including customers who signed up prior to the OPA’s funding of the program, PowerStream Barrie Hydro Distribution now has a total of 11,643 peaksaver participants in its service territory.
“We are extremely pleased to be recognized for our efforts to encourage PowerStream Barrie Hydro Distribution customers to participate in the peaksaver conservation program,” said Patrick Guran, PowerStream’s Chief Energy Conservation Officer. “By signing up for peaksaver our customers will not only help to reduce electricity demand during critical peak periods of restricted power supply but will also be contributing to a cleaner and greener Ontario.”
The peaksaver conservation program helps to ensure a reliable power supply in the province by providing the local electricity distribution companies the ability, during high peak demand times over the summer, to remotely cycle down central air conditioning units of participating customers, for a short period of time, through a peaksaver programmable thermostat installed at their homes at no charge. By reducing the amount of electricity needed when demand for electricity is very high, peaksaver participants reduce the need for the province to use coal-fired generating stations to meet the electricity shortfalls. These plants release greenhouse gases and contribute to air pollution.
For questions regarding the program, or to enroll, visit www.powerstream.ca/peaksaver or call 1866-323-0206.
About PowerStream Inc. PowerStream Inc. is the second largest municipally-owned electricity distribution company in Ontario, providing service to more than 315,000 residential and business customers in Alliston, Aurora, Barrie, Bradford West Gwillimbury, Beeton, Markham, Penetanguishene, Richmond Hill, Thornton, Tottenham and Vaughan. It is an incorporated entity, jointly owned by the City of Barrie, the City of Vaughan and the Town of Markham.
About Ontario Clean Air Alliance The Ontario Clean Air Alliance is a diverse, multi-stakeholder coalition of approximately 90 organizations including cities, health associations, environmental and public interest groups, corporations, public utilities, unions, faith communities and individuals, representing more than six million Ontarians. OCAA’s short term goal is to achieve the complete phase out of Ontario’s four coal-fired power plants by 2010. The organization’s long term goal is to achieve a 100% renewable electricity grid by 2027.
PowerStream Barrie Hydro Distribution was one of three Ontario electricity distribution companies identified by OCAA in the organization’s annual PeakBusters Utility Challenge, a peaksaver competition which recognizes utilities that had the largest percentage increase in program participants within their respective service territories between March 31 and Sept. 30, 2009. Complete results from the competition are available online at http://www.peakbusters.ca/utility.php .
According to figures provided by the Ontario Power Authority (OPA), PowerStream Barrie Hydro Distribution on April 1 of this year had 2,152 registered OPA-funded participants in the peaksaver program. By the end of September that number had been increased to 8,238, an increase of over 6,000 in just six months.
The peaksaver program continues to be one of the PowerStream Barrie Hydro Distribution’s most successful conservation initiatives. Since the end of the contest period, another 1,650 households have been added. Including customers who signed up prior to the OPA’s funding of the program, PowerStream Barrie Hydro Distribution now has a total of 11,643 peaksaver participants in its service territory.
“We are extremely pleased to be recognized for our efforts to encourage PowerStream Barrie Hydro Distribution customers to participate in the peaksaver conservation program,” said Patrick Guran, PowerStream’s Chief Energy Conservation Officer. “By signing up for peaksaver our customers will not only help to reduce electricity demand during critical peak periods of restricted power supply but will also be contributing to a cleaner and greener Ontario.”
The peaksaver conservation program helps to ensure a reliable power supply in the province by providing the local electricity distribution companies the ability, during high peak demand times over the summer, to remotely cycle down central air conditioning units of participating customers, for a short period of time, through a peaksaver programmable thermostat installed at their homes at no charge. By reducing the amount of electricity needed when demand for electricity is very high, peaksaver participants reduce the need for the province to use coal-fired generating stations to meet the electricity shortfalls. These plants release greenhouse gases and contribute to air pollution.
For questions regarding the program, or to enroll, visit www.powerstream.ca/peaksaver or call 1866-323-0206.
About PowerStream Inc. PowerStream Inc. is the second largest municipally-owned electricity distribution company in Ontario, providing service to more than 315,000 residential and business customers in Alliston, Aurora, Barrie, Bradford West Gwillimbury, Beeton, Markham, Penetanguishene, Richmond Hill, Thornton, Tottenham and Vaughan. It is an incorporated entity, jointly owned by the City of Barrie, the City of Vaughan and the Town of Markham.
About Ontario Clean Air Alliance The Ontario Clean Air Alliance is a diverse, multi-stakeholder coalition of approximately 90 organizations including cities, health associations, environmental and public interest groups, corporations, public utilities, unions, faith communities and individuals, representing more than six million Ontarians. OCAA’s short term goal is to achieve the complete phase out of Ontario’s four coal-fired power plants by 2010. The organization’s long term goal is to achieve a 100% renewable electricity grid by 2027.
Friday, November 27, 2009
County of Simcoe Supports Community Partnerships
Midhurst/ November 27, 2009 – County Council approved the County of Simcoe 2010 operating budget this week, including funding for Georgian College’s Health and Wellness Centre, Lakehead University in Orillia, the Banting Homestead restoration project in New Tecumseth and a $3 million contribution to the Simcoe County Hospital Alliance.
“When two parties work together it’s good. When all parties work together, it’s great,” stated Warden Tony Guergis. “The needs in our communities are growing and the available dollars are limited in all sectors; all the more reason to bring together our community partners whenever possible. By joining our resources, we can all be more effective and realize greater goals.”
Throughout 2009, Council received an increased number of requests from community groups asking for funding of services and initiatives that are not mandated to the County of Simcoe. In response to the identified need, a policy was approved in September allocating $54,000 to cultural and historical grants. Successful applicants in 2010 include the Banting Homestead, MacLaren Art Centre in Barrie and the Coldwater Canadian Heritage Museum.
However, effective partnerships are about more than just funding. The County has recently participated in local events alongside the Child, Youth and Family Services Coalition of Simcoe County, the Food Partners Alliance of Simcoe County and Hospice Simcoe.
The County believes that collaboration is an effective approach to achieving community goals for the greater good of agencies and residents across the region.
Child and Youth Coalition member Brenda Ingersoll, Rama First Nation Councillor and Simcoe County District School Board Trustee, spoke at the Charter launch, representing native communities in Simcoe County. She agrees that when governments and community agencies develop and maintain partnerships, residents benefit.
"I feel honoured to represent First Nation peoples in Simcoe County and wish to congratulate the County of Simcoe for its progressiveness,” said Brenda Ingersoll. “Truly the rest of Ontario could learn from Simcoe County on being innovative, inclusive and forward thinking."
The County believes that collaboration is an effective approach to achieving community goals for the greater good of agencies and residents across the region.
The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.
“When two parties work together it’s good. When all parties work together, it’s great,” stated Warden Tony Guergis. “The needs in our communities are growing and the available dollars are limited in all sectors; all the more reason to bring together our community partners whenever possible. By joining our resources, we can all be more effective and realize greater goals.”
Throughout 2009, Council received an increased number of requests from community groups asking for funding of services and initiatives that are not mandated to the County of Simcoe. In response to the identified need, a policy was approved in September allocating $54,000 to cultural and historical grants. Successful applicants in 2010 include the Banting Homestead, MacLaren Art Centre in Barrie and the Coldwater Canadian Heritage Museum.
However, effective partnerships are about more than just funding. The County has recently participated in local events alongside the Child, Youth and Family Services Coalition of Simcoe County, the Food Partners Alliance of Simcoe County and Hospice Simcoe.
The County believes that collaboration is an effective approach to achieving community goals for the greater good of agencies and residents across the region.
Child and Youth Coalition member Brenda Ingersoll, Rama First Nation Councillor and Simcoe County District School Board Trustee, spoke at the Charter launch, representing native communities in Simcoe County. She agrees that when governments and community agencies develop and maintain partnerships, residents benefit.
"I feel honoured to represent First Nation peoples in Simcoe County and wish to congratulate the County of Simcoe for its progressiveness,” said Brenda Ingersoll. “Truly the rest of Ontario could learn from Simcoe County on being innovative, inclusive and forward thinking."
The County believes that collaboration is an effective approach to achieving community goals for the greater good of agencies and residents across the region.
The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Heart and Stroke Foundation’s new CPR campaign challenges Canadians to put their hands to good use
Heart and Stroke Foundation’s new CPR campaign challenges Canadians to put their hands to good use: just 22 minutes can last a lifetime
November 24, 2009
Ottawa– A new public service campaign from the Heart and Stroke Foundation challenges Canadians to learn CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) during November – CPR month – to see that they have what it takes to save a life.
“CPR can be a vital link in saving a life and almost anyone can learn it,” says Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada CEO Sally Brown. “We’re urging Canadians to put their hands to the test and learn CPR. It’s easier than you think, doesn’t take long to learn, and could help save the life of someone close to you.”
The Foundation’s national TV and radio campaign aims to raise awareness of the need for increasing bystander CPR. “Canada’s rate of bystander CPR is abysmal. There’s simply no good reason not to learn how to do CPR” says Dr. Laurie Morrison, spokesperson for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. “I hope that everyone gets the message: it takes very little of your time to save a life.”
The creative campaign features a man collapsing and his distressed wife crying out for help, as she pleads, “Does anyone know CPR? “ Listeners are then asked how much time it took to learn how to use that new fancy cell phone and to straighten up their golf swing – finally reminding them that it takes as little as 22 minutes to learn the core skills of CPR.
The PSA for TV and radio runs coast to coast.
“Our PSA packs a punch but the fact is that, although cardiac arrest is frightening, it doesn’t have to be a death sentence. The Heart and Stroke Foundation urges all Canadians to learn CPR,” says Brown. “If we have time to devote to this skill, we ultimately have the tools to save a life.”
Boosting bystander CPR rates across the country is a priority for the Foundation. And making noise on radio and TV extends beyond November. As Canada and the world count down to the Vancouver 2010 Olympics and Paralympic Winter Games in February, the Heart and Stroke Foundation will support the cardiac safety of the games by providing 10,000 Family & Friends™ CPR Anytime™ personal learning kits to train 10,000 volunteers in the life-saving skills of CPR.
CPR Anytime™ Family&Friends™ enables Canadians to learn the core lifesaving skills of CPR in 22 minutes in the comfort of their own homes or in the workplace. It can be ordered online at www.heartandstroke.ca/cpranytime
According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, up to 85 per cent of all cardiac arrests occur in homes and public places. About 40,000 people experience cardiac arrest in Canada each year. The odds of survival for an out-of hospital cardiac arrest are approximately five per cent. This is often because CPR is not started soon enough by bystanders or not performed at all.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada sets the Canadian guidelines for CPR, defibrillation, and other aspects of emergency cardiovascular care in Canada.
November 24, 2009
Ottawa– A new public service campaign from the Heart and Stroke Foundation challenges Canadians to learn CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) during November – CPR month – to see that they have what it takes to save a life.
“CPR can be a vital link in saving a life and almost anyone can learn it,” says Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada CEO Sally Brown. “We’re urging Canadians to put their hands to the test and learn CPR. It’s easier than you think, doesn’t take long to learn, and could help save the life of someone close to you.”
The Foundation’s national TV and radio campaign aims to raise awareness of the need for increasing bystander CPR. “Canada’s rate of bystander CPR is abysmal. There’s simply no good reason not to learn how to do CPR” says Dr. Laurie Morrison, spokesperson for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. “I hope that everyone gets the message: it takes very little of your time to save a life.”
The creative campaign features a man collapsing and his distressed wife crying out for help, as she pleads, “Does anyone know CPR? “ Listeners are then asked how much time it took to learn how to use that new fancy cell phone and to straighten up their golf swing – finally reminding them that it takes as little as 22 minutes to learn the core skills of CPR.
The PSA for TV and radio runs coast to coast.
“Our PSA packs a punch but the fact is that, although cardiac arrest is frightening, it doesn’t have to be a death sentence. The Heart and Stroke Foundation urges all Canadians to learn CPR,” says Brown. “If we have time to devote to this skill, we ultimately have the tools to save a life.”
Boosting bystander CPR rates across the country is a priority for the Foundation. And making noise on radio and TV extends beyond November. As Canada and the world count down to the Vancouver 2010 Olympics and Paralympic Winter Games in February, the Heart and Stroke Foundation will support the cardiac safety of the games by providing 10,000 Family & Friends™ CPR Anytime™ personal learning kits to train 10,000 volunteers in the life-saving skills of CPR.
CPR Anytime™ Family&Friends™ enables Canadians to learn the core lifesaving skills of CPR in 22 minutes in the comfort of their own homes or in the workplace. It can be ordered online at www.heartandstroke.ca/cpranytime
According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, up to 85 per cent of all cardiac arrests occur in homes and public places. About 40,000 people experience cardiac arrest in Canada each year. The odds of survival for an out-of hospital cardiac arrest are approximately five per cent. This is often because CPR is not started soon enough by bystanders or not performed at all.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada sets the Canadian guidelines for CPR, defibrillation, and other aspects of emergency cardiovascular care in Canada.
Awards Recognize Geology Student's Dedication to Academics and Community
(November 24, 2009 - Thunder Bay, ON) Third-year geology student Katarina Bjorkman has recently received two awards totalling $5,500 in recognition of both her academic and community-based achievements.
A one-time award of $4,500 as a Laureate of the esteemed 2009/2010 Millennium Excellence In-Course Award Program is a marvellous gift. The award recognizes, supports, and encourages talented Canadians who make positive and significant contributions to the betterment of their communities. It showcases those who demonstrate a capacity for leadership, and commit themselves to the pursuit of academic excellence and innovation. In addition to undertaking various leadership and community service roles during her high school years, this high-achiever also adopted a nurturing role in her hometown, located in the Sapawe area – approximately 30 minutes northeast of Atikokan. Here, Katarina took care of her neighbours and those in need. She gardened, shovelled snow, raked leaves, split wood, and completed general household chores for widows and elderly couples who needed a helping hand. “These folks have come into my life because they’ve trusted me enough to make me an important part of their lives. It’s great to feel like I’m really making a difference. I enjoy helping people. They are part of my life – I love them and they know it.” This award also recognizes Katarina’s role in organizing, coordinating, and leading staking and prospecting contracts.
Bjorkman was also awarded $1,000 from the Women's Association of the Mining Industry of Canada. This award is presented annually to a third or fourth-year undergraduate student enrolled in programs including mining, metallurgy, geology, geophysics, geological engineering, or related studies in earth sciences at an accredited Canadian university. The successful awardee must also have attained an average mark of 85% or higher.
In her final year of high school, Katarina was in line for some highly sought after scholarships, including the Governor General's Medal for Academic Excellence and a substantial entrance award from Lakehead University. But, life took her down a different path and she decided not to enrol in higher education immediately after graduating high school. "I've always loved learning and being involved in the academic environment," explains the 27-year-old award recipient. "But, when it was time for me to decide what to do with my life after high school, I just wasn't ready to enrol - in anything or at any school. I knew Geology was the right fit for me, and I couldn’t wait to get out into nature to start working."
Years ago, Katarina’s father left his career in the Hydro field to pursue contracting work, subsequently became interested in prospecting, and soon started a family tradition as Katarina also flourished in her role as a prospector and claim staker for seven years following her high school graduation. She was contracted by various exploration companies around Northwestern Ontario, and even the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Sweden, and Norway. Bjorkman loved her line of work from the onset. “I love our land – the rocks, blue lakes, forests, the physical exertion, and I love the search for minerals.”
Katarina couldn't be happier now that she's back in the academic realm - studying a subject she is so passionate about. She may explore future academic goals, but plans to work in exploration once again immediately following completion of her undergraduate degree. She eagerly awaits the arrival of spring 2010 when she’ll have a chance to get back to nature – full-time. For now though, Katarina is happy to have received this recognition and the financial support that accompanies it, and will use the money from both awards to cover this year's tuition costs.
About Lakehead
Lakehead is a comprehensive university with a reputation for innovative programs and cutting-edge research. With a main campus located in Thunder Bay, Ontario and a campus in Orillia, Ontario, Lakehead has over 7,900 students and 2,250 faculty and staff, and is home to the west campus of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine. In 2006, Research Infosource Inc. named Lakehead University Canada's Research University of the Year in the undergraduate category. For more information on Lakehead University, visit www.lakeheadu.ca
A one-time award of $4,500 as a Laureate of the esteemed 2009/2010 Millennium Excellence In-Course Award Program is a marvellous gift. The award recognizes, supports, and encourages talented Canadians who make positive and significant contributions to the betterment of their communities. It showcases those who demonstrate a capacity for leadership, and commit themselves to the pursuit of academic excellence and innovation. In addition to undertaking various leadership and community service roles during her high school years, this high-achiever also adopted a nurturing role in her hometown, located in the Sapawe area – approximately 30 minutes northeast of Atikokan. Here, Katarina took care of her neighbours and those in need. She gardened, shovelled snow, raked leaves, split wood, and completed general household chores for widows and elderly couples who needed a helping hand. “These folks have come into my life because they’ve trusted me enough to make me an important part of their lives. It’s great to feel like I’m really making a difference. I enjoy helping people. They are part of my life – I love them and they know it.” This award also recognizes Katarina’s role in organizing, coordinating, and leading staking and prospecting contracts.
Bjorkman was also awarded $1,000 from the Women's Association of the Mining Industry of Canada. This award is presented annually to a third or fourth-year undergraduate student enrolled in programs including mining, metallurgy, geology, geophysics, geological engineering, or related studies in earth sciences at an accredited Canadian university. The successful awardee must also have attained an average mark of 85% or higher.
In her final year of high school, Katarina was in line for some highly sought after scholarships, including the Governor General's Medal for Academic Excellence and a substantial entrance award from Lakehead University. But, life took her down a different path and she decided not to enrol in higher education immediately after graduating high school. "I've always loved learning and being involved in the academic environment," explains the 27-year-old award recipient. "But, when it was time for me to decide what to do with my life after high school, I just wasn't ready to enrol - in anything or at any school. I knew Geology was the right fit for me, and I couldn’t wait to get out into nature to start working."
Years ago, Katarina’s father left his career in the Hydro field to pursue contracting work, subsequently became interested in prospecting, and soon started a family tradition as Katarina also flourished in her role as a prospector and claim staker for seven years following her high school graduation. She was contracted by various exploration companies around Northwestern Ontario, and even the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Sweden, and Norway. Bjorkman loved her line of work from the onset. “I love our land – the rocks, blue lakes, forests, the physical exertion, and I love the search for minerals.”
Katarina couldn't be happier now that she's back in the academic realm - studying a subject she is so passionate about. She may explore future academic goals, but plans to work in exploration once again immediately following completion of her undergraduate degree. She eagerly awaits the arrival of spring 2010 when she’ll have a chance to get back to nature – full-time. For now though, Katarina is happy to have received this recognition and the financial support that accompanies it, and will use the money from both awards to cover this year's tuition costs.
About Lakehead
Lakehead is a comprehensive university with a reputation for innovative programs and cutting-edge research. With a main campus located in Thunder Bay, Ontario and a campus in Orillia, Ontario, Lakehead has over 7,900 students and 2,250 faculty and staff, and is home to the west campus of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine. In 2006, Research Infosource Inc. named Lakehead University Canada's Research University of the Year in the undergraduate category. For more information on Lakehead University, visit www.lakeheadu.ca
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
JASON HARRIS TO CARRY OLYMPIC TORCH IN ELMVALE!
SPRINGWATER TOWNSHIP / November 17, 2009 – Jason Harris will be a part of Olympic history on Tuesday December 29th, as he carries the Olympic Torch in Elmvale on its way to the winter games in Vancouver.
Jason is co-owner of Orr Lake Golf Club in Springwater Township, and was named a Torchbearer by iCoke, after making a commitment to be more physically and environmentally active.
“I’m excited to be a part of the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay,” said Jason. “Carrying the torch in my own community will make it even more memorable.”
While Jason is preparing for his turn with the historic relay, Elmvale will be buzzing with pre-Torch Relay activities, including:
INTERNATIONAL LUNCH SPECIALS with foods from countries around the world, served up by the Elmvale restaurants you know and love!
WARM-UP STATIONS around the community with hot chocolate, coffee and snacks
“AMAZING RACE” Olympic Edition, multi-generational and family-oriented (9am – 11am)
KID’S SPEED SKATING RACES at the Elmvale Arena (9am – 10am)
CELEBRITY SLEDGE HOCKEY GAME at the Elmvale Arena (10:30am – 11:00am)
FUTURE OLYMPIC STARS HOCKEY GAME at the Elmvale Arena (10:00am – 10:30am)
FAMILY CURLING with World Champions at the Elmvale Curling Club (9am – 11am)
BOB SLEIGH RACES at Homer Barrett Park (10am – 11am)
Come out and participate in the pre-torch events, and find a great spot to watch the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay make its way into Elmvale.
Springwater is a municipality of approximately 18,000 residents located in the heart of Simcoe County. 2009 celebrates the 15th anniversary of the amalgamated Township of Springwater. The Township is governed by a seven-member council with a complement of 60 full and part-time staff. The NEW Township of Springwater Administration Centre is located at 2231 Nursery Road in Midhurst, and amalgamates the Parks and Recreation staff as well as Council Chambers with the rest of the staff.
Jason is co-owner of Orr Lake Golf Club in Springwater Township, and was named a Torchbearer by iCoke, after making a commitment to be more physically and environmentally active.
“I’m excited to be a part of the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay,” said Jason. “Carrying the torch in my own community will make it even more memorable.”
While Jason is preparing for his turn with the historic relay, Elmvale will be buzzing with pre-Torch Relay activities, including:
INTERNATIONAL LUNCH SPECIALS with foods from countries around the world, served up by the Elmvale restaurants you know and love!
WARM-UP STATIONS around the community with hot chocolate, coffee and snacks
“AMAZING RACE” Olympic Edition, multi-generational and family-oriented (9am – 11am)
KID’S SPEED SKATING RACES at the Elmvale Arena (9am – 10am)
CELEBRITY SLEDGE HOCKEY GAME at the Elmvale Arena (10:30am – 11:00am)
FUTURE OLYMPIC STARS HOCKEY GAME at the Elmvale Arena (10:00am – 10:30am)
FAMILY CURLING with World Champions at the Elmvale Curling Club (9am – 11am)
BOB SLEIGH RACES at Homer Barrett Park (10am – 11am)
Come out and participate in the pre-torch events, and find a great spot to watch the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay make its way into Elmvale.
Springwater is a municipality of approximately 18,000 residents located in the heart of Simcoe County. 2009 celebrates the 15th anniversary of the amalgamated Township of Springwater. The Township is governed by a seven-member council with a complement of 60 full and part-time staff. The NEW Township of Springwater Administration Centre is located at 2231 Nursery Road in Midhurst, and amalgamates the Parks and Recreation staff as well as Council Chambers with the rest of the staff.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Mary Walsh to Younger Canadians: COPD is on the Rise – Get Tested! The Lung Association
The earlier COPD is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat.
COPD is no joke to Canadian comedian Mary Walsh.
“It’s shocking that so few Canadians know about COPD considering it’s the fourth leading cause of death in this country,” says Mary Walsh, spokesperson for The Lung Association. Walsh, best known for her work on This Hour has 22 Minutes, is helping raise awareness about COPD, a serious breathing disease that has affected three of her family members along with hundreds of thousands of other Canadians.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is still on the rise in Canada. COPD , the new term for emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is growing in prevalence among younger Canadian baby boomersi and is emerging as a leading health issue for women. In fact, according to research by The Lung Association, one in seven Canadians aged 45 to 49 may currently be living with COPD,ii and many more may be unaware they even have it.
“People may think that feeling short of breath is a normal sign of aging, but it's not,” says Walsh.
COPD symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, fatigue and frequent lung infections. “If you have any trouble with your breathing, go to your doctor and insist, insist on a breathing test.” COPD is diagnosed by spirometry, a simple test that measures how much air you can hold and move out of your lungs.
While there is no cure for COPD, the disease is treatable. “There are many treatments that will help individuals with COPD,” says Dr. Roger Goldstein, notable Toronto respirologist and Ontario Lung Association spokesperson. “The earlier the diagnosis, the better chance of reducing the longer term effects of the condition. High risk people (smokers over the age of 40 years) should be actively screened, so that COPD can be caught earlier and better managed.”
Early treatment can reduce the decline in lung function and improve quality of life.iii A recent study published in The Lancet found that treatment of COPD should begin at an early stage of the disease to slow down its progression.iv
About COPD
COPD is a serious respiratory disease that causes lung damage and obstructs, or blocks the airways. The main symptoms of COPD are shortness of breath and having a hard time doing regular activities. COPD is sometimes referred to as emphysema or chronic bronchitis and is primarily caused by smoking; however, about 10-20 % of COPD cases are caused by other factors e.g. air pollution, lung infections and genetic disorder. It is a progressive disease, which means it gets worse over time. People living with COPD experience flare-ups – times when symptoms get significantly worse. These flare-ups, or “lung attacks” are just as deadly as heart attacks.
World COPD Day in Canada
World COPD Day 2009 is on November 18 and this year, Mary Walsh has joined forces with the Canadian Lung Association to help raise awareness of COPD and the importance of early diagnosis.
Coast 2 Coast Challenge for COPD: Nov. 1 –18
The Lung Association is organizing its second annual Coast 2 Coast Challenge, a virtual trek across Canada to raise awareness about COPD. The Lung Association is inviting people with COPD, their supporters and all Canadians to join the Challenge. Our goal is to cross the country from coast-to-coast in time for World COPD Day, November 18th. Participants will follow a virtual course that takes them from Victoria, B.C. to St. John’s Nfld. to Iqaluit, N.U. and then back to Victoria, B.C., an entire round trip of 14,000 kilometres! Last year, participants in Ontario tracked nearly 10,000 kilometres alone.
Visit www.teamcopd.ca for more information or to sign up to participate in the Coast 2 Coast Challenge. The site brings together photos from Flikr, videos from Youtube, and tweets from Twitter, to show COPDers and supporters doing Coast 2 Coast Challenge and talking about life with COPD.
Visit www.teamcopd.ca to:
Learn more about COPD, View Mary’s video message. Find out if you’re at risk – take The Lung Association’s COPD Quiz. Participate in the Coast 2 Coast Challenge
Help for People with COPD
The Ontario Lung Association offers support for people with COPD and their families. Call the BreathWorks™ Helpline at 1-888-344-LUNG (5864) and speak to a certified respiratory educator or visit us online at www.on.lung.ca to download free COPD resources.
About Ontario Lung Association:
The Lung Association is one of Canada's oldest voluntary, not-for-profit health-promotion organizations. The Lung Association is concerned with the prevention and control of asthma, chronic lung disease caused by smoking and with air quality and its effect on lung health.
The Ontario Lung Association was incorporated in 1945, and has community offices across the province. Visit the Ontario Lung Association online at www.on.lung.ca, or call 1-888-344-LUNG for more information.
When you can’t breathe, nothing else matters.
COPD is no joke to Canadian comedian Mary Walsh.
“It’s shocking that so few Canadians know about COPD considering it’s the fourth leading cause of death in this country,” says Mary Walsh, spokesperson for The Lung Association. Walsh, best known for her work on This Hour has 22 Minutes, is helping raise awareness about COPD, a serious breathing disease that has affected three of her family members along with hundreds of thousands of other Canadians.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is still on the rise in Canada. COPD , the new term for emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is growing in prevalence among younger Canadian baby boomersi and is emerging as a leading health issue for women. In fact, according to research by The Lung Association, one in seven Canadians aged 45 to 49 may currently be living with COPD,ii and many more may be unaware they even have it.
“People may think that feeling short of breath is a normal sign of aging, but it's not,” says Walsh.
COPD symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, fatigue and frequent lung infections. “If you have any trouble with your breathing, go to your doctor and insist, insist on a breathing test.” COPD is diagnosed by spirometry, a simple test that measures how much air you can hold and move out of your lungs.
While there is no cure for COPD, the disease is treatable. “There are many treatments that will help individuals with COPD,” says Dr. Roger Goldstein, notable Toronto respirologist and Ontario Lung Association spokesperson. “The earlier the diagnosis, the better chance of reducing the longer term effects of the condition. High risk people (smokers over the age of 40 years) should be actively screened, so that COPD can be caught earlier and better managed.”
Early treatment can reduce the decline in lung function and improve quality of life.iii A recent study published in The Lancet found that treatment of COPD should begin at an early stage of the disease to slow down its progression.iv
About COPD
COPD is a serious respiratory disease that causes lung damage and obstructs, or blocks the airways. The main symptoms of COPD are shortness of breath and having a hard time doing regular activities. COPD is sometimes referred to as emphysema or chronic bronchitis and is primarily caused by smoking; however, about 10-20 % of COPD cases are caused by other factors e.g. air pollution, lung infections and genetic disorder. It is a progressive disease, which means it gets worse over time. People living with COPD experience flare-ups – times when symptoms get significantly worse. These flare-ups, or “lung attacks” are just as deadly as heart attacks.
World COPD Day in Canada
World COPD Day 2009 is on November 18 and this year, Mary Walsh has joined forces with the Canadian Lung Association to help raise awareness of COPD and the importance of early diagnosis.
Coast 2 Coast Challenge for COPD: Nov. 1 –18
The Lung Association is organizing its second annual Coast 2 Coast Challenge, a virtual trek across Canada to raise awareness about COPD. The Lung Association is inviting people with COPD, their supporters and all Canadians to join the Challenge. Our goal is to cross the country from coast-to-coast in time for World COPD Day, November 18th. Participants will follow a virtual course that takes them from Victoria, B.C. to St. John’s Nfld. to Iqaluit, N.U. and then back to Victoria, B.C., an entire round trip of 14,000 kilometres! Last year, participants in Ontario tracked nearly 10,000 kilometres alone.
Visit www.teamcopd.ca for more information or to sign up to participate in the Coast 2 Coast Challenge. The site brings together photos from Flikr, videos from Youtube, and tweets from Twitter, to show COPDers and supporters doing Coast 2 Coast Challenge and talking about life with COPD.
Visit www.teamcopd.ca to:
Learn more about COPD, View Mary’s video message. Find out if you’re at risk – take The Lung Association’s COPD Quiz. Participate in the Coast 2 Coast Challenge
Help for People with COPD
The Ontario Lung Association offers support for people with COPD and their families. Call the BreathWorks™ Helpline at 1-888-344-LUNG (5864) and speak to a certified respiratory educator or visit us online at www.on.lung.ca to download free COPD resources.
About Ontario Lung Association:
The Lung Association is one of Canada's oldest voluntary, not-for-profit health-promotion organizations. The Lung Association is concerned with the prevention and control of asthma, chronic lung disease caused by smoking and with air quality and its effect on lung health.
The Ontario Lung Association was incorporated in 1945, and has community offices across the province. Visit the Ontario Lung Association online at www.on.lung.ca, or call 1-888-344-LUNG for more information.
When you can’t breathe, nothing else matters.
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