:: Duffer's Rule ::

Ontario Place closure 'a sad day for the province'

2012-02-02T11:33:00.002-05:00

photo credit: Lloyd Alter

TORONTO, February 1, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - Today's announcement by the Ontario government that they will close most of Ontario Place for "re-vamping" raises some disturbing questions as to the future of the province's premier showplace.

Warren (Smokey) Thomas, President of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union, says that, from all appearances, Premier Dalton McGuinty has just put some of the most valuable real estate in Toronto on the auction block.

"The government is quoted as saying that 'everything is on the table' and that they 'will entertain private-sector investment'," Thomas said. "With John Tory advising Queen's Park, you can be fairly sure that it won't be long before Ontario Place becomes a private-for-profit venture."

Thomas says this closure is a sad day for the province due to the deliberately vague messages being given to the people of Ontario.

"The government is saying Ontario Place will be closed for up to the next five years," Thomas said. "Neither will they confirm or deny that the Cinesphere will be demolished. Rumours of a new casino or more waterfront condos could result in permanent transformation of this landmark area into just another cluster of concrete and steel towers."

Thomas accuses the McGuinty Liberals of not looking long-term into what will benefit Ontarians.

"There are profits to be made from entertainment, if the government made the investment," Thomas said. "Instead, the Ontario Liberals will hand over a provincial asset to the private sector, a move that is irrevocable. Cash that would have come to the government will instead go to private investors. And one more provincial icon will be gone forever."

TO2015 Reports Milton Council Confirms Velodrome

2012-02-01T09:19:00.005-05:00

photo credit: InsideHalton.com

TORONTO, January 31, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Town of Milton made a landmark decision at last night's municipal council meeting to build a permanent velodrome at the Milton Education Village for the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games.

"On behalf of TO2015, we would like to thank the Town of Milton for making this velodrome a reality," says Ian Troop, Chief Executive Officer, Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan Am Games Organizing Committee (TO2015). "This is the result of sound deliberation and an appreciation for the potential associated with a permanent velodrome."

This legacy cycling centre also includes an infield that could support other recreational activities such as basketball, volleyball or badminton.

"This is a great day for cycling and amateur sport in Canada," said Olympian Curt Harnett. "This will result in a world-class facility that will make Milton a cycling hub for the surrounding community, the province and eastern Canada."

TO2015 looks forward to working with Town of Milton and the Organizing Committee's partners to build a velodrome that will attract the best athletes from the Americas in 2015 and leave a lasting sport legacy.

About the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games

The Pan and Parapan American Games are one of the world's largest international multi-sport events, held every four years for athletes of the 41 member nations of the Pan American Sports Organization (PASO). The Toronto 2015 Pan and Parapan American Games will draw 10,000 athletes and officials and feature 48 sports in 17 municipalities across the Greater Golden Horseshoe area. The Toronto 2015 Pan American Games will take place July 10-26 and the Parapan American Games August 7-14.

Thinking outside the box office:

2012-02-01T08:45:00.001-05:00

New report cites digital strategy as vital to survival of theatre in Canada

TORONTO, January 31, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - A new report, entitled Beyond the Curtain: How Digital Media Is Reshaping Theatre, warns that performing arts companies in Canada will struggle to compete with foreign content unless they embrace digital technology as a means of finding new audiences for theatrical productions.

"The remarkable achievement of this report is that it has brought together unions, performing arts producers and content creators to discuss what is becoming a very serious issue affecting Canadian theatre," says veteran Canadian television producer Craig Thompson, author of the report.

According to the report, Canadian live theatre is facing stiffer competition for entertainment dollars from the proliferation of new digital platforms. In an environment in which funding for the arts is declining and broadcasters are turning away from traditional performing arts programming, capturing live performance for digital distribution has become more important than ever as a source of revenue. The report argues that the re-purposing of live theatre for cinema screens and the Internet offers an exciting opportunity to reach a broader audience and generate additional revenue.

"We want to ensure that Canadian audiences have access to Canadian performing arts productions wherever and whenever they choose to view it," says Arden Ryshpan, Executive Director of Canadian Actors' Equity Association, which represents stage performers and is one of the partners in the report. "We don't want the only thing available to be a foreign opera, ballet or theatre company."

The Canadian theatre industry is finding it challenging to keep pace with the number of foreign productions on cinema screens, such as The Met: Live in HD and National Theatre Live, both of which are attracting large audiences. The report warns that Canada will fall behind unless new funding models are made available to re-purpose homegrown theatrical content for digital platforms — with or without broadcaster involvement.

"Our industry is well aware of the need to embrace the digital reality and make the arts more accessible on different platforms," says Jacoba Knaapen, Executive Director of the Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts, which represents 187 theatre, dance and opera companies in the Greater Toronto Area. "This report highlights this need in the strongest possible way and is an important step in moving our industry forward in that direction."

The study also recommends theatre producers and unions accelerate the pace of discussions and negotiations to ensure barriers to rapid adoption of content re-purposing and digital media applications are removed. It further calls for the availability of innovation funding to allow theatre companies to experiment with all facets of digital media and technology.

The study was led by Ballinran Entertainment with funding from the OMDC Entertainment and Creative Cluster Partnerships Fund. Other partners in the study included Digital Wizards, Canadian Actors' Equity Association and the Stratford Shakespeare Festival. The study included an on-line survey and interviews with the theatre and performing arts community in Canada and abroad.

The report is available at: www.stagescene.ca

Canadians Unaware of Staggering Cost of Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis National Survey finds

2012-01-24T10:36:00.003-05:00

VANCOUVER, January 24, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - Twenty-five years after the historic Rick Hansen Man in Motion World Tour to raise awareness about spinal cord injury research, accessibility and inclusivity, Canadians vastly underestimate the costs of treating and caring for people with spinal cord injury and other chronic illnesses that result in paralysis, according to a wide-raging survey conducted for The Rick Hansen Institute by Angus Reid Public Opinion.

Despite the widespread lack of knowledge about SCI indicated by this poll, Canadians still attribute high levels of importance to healthcare and scientific research, acknowledge that continued investment in this research is important, and feel positively towards organizations working to improve quality of life of individuals while reducing healthcare costs.

"Spinal cord injury continues to be one of the most expensive initial and ongoing health care costs in the entire medical system, yet most Canadians are largely unaware of SCI's impact on individuals and society as a whole," said Bill Barrable, CEO of the Rick Hansen Institute.

An estimated 86,000 Canadians have an SCI, with more than 4,300 new cases reported each year.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SURVEY

...The majority of those polled (87%) vastly underestimated the cost of SCI on Canada and its healthcare system, guessing the figure to be no greater than $100 million a year (about 3% of the actual figure of $3 billion a year)

...Only 7% were able to identify the approximate number of Canadians who develop paralysis each day from stroke and spinal cord injury (estimated at 60 Canadians each day).

...89% of Canadians support continued investment to spur research that investigates new treatments applicable to multiple diseases and medical conditions.

"The survey shows that Canadians are undeniably supportive of scientific research, and are aware of the fact that many advances have arrived when science is supported by the public," said Mario Canseco, of Angus Reid Public Opinion.

Infographics and other charts illustrating polling results are available here: http://bit.ly/ptQ3c7.

About the Rick Hansen Institute:

The Rick Hansen Institute's goal is creating a world without paralysis after SCI. It works towards this goal by accelerating research and translating clinical findings into practical solutions to develop new treatments, improve care and reduce the cost burden on taxpayers.

Canadian Skier Takes Skiing to the City, Catches Bus for his Next Run (Video)

2012-01-20T10:01:00.004-05:00

© Sherpas Cinema

from TreeHugger.com
by Jeff Nield - Living / Culture January 19, 2012

Barcelona's proposed indoor ski hill got me thinking about whether skiing could be considered a green activity at all.

Typical ski hill infrastructure significantly alters the local ecosystem where it is built, not to mention all the fuel needed to haul people up to the base of the slope and to keep the lifts running, the runs groomed, and the lodge heated. Heading to the backwoods is always an option, but not for everyone, and while you can snowshoe, hike, or cross-country ski in, it's more likely that you'd catch a ride on a helicopter or snowmobile.

But, there is another way, which one avid skier proves in this amazing video: Urban Skiing.

I live in Nelson, BC. Here, it's an unwritten requirement of residency that in the winter everyone must ski or snowboard at one of the local mountains. But, for the adventurous staying in bounds gets boring quick.

JP Auclair is one such local skier who, instead of looking for a first descent out in the wilderness, brought his skis into town and rode the streets of Trail, Rossland, and Nelson, BC. Sherpas Cinema filmed him in action and the results are stunning. Watch for yourself.

JP Auclair Street Segment (from All.I.Can.) from Sherpas Cinema on Vimeo.

I love the ending when he gets on the bus for his next run. And yes, that is the city bus on its regular route, there is an area in town called Uphill. Check out Sami's review of the film that this excerpt is from. It's called All.I.Can. and is available for purchase at the Sherpas Cinema website.

If you know of anywhere else where you can actually ski in the city, let us know about it... read the full story at TreeHugger.com

U of G Gets $1.5-Million Gift for Upgrades to Alumni Stadium

2012-01-20T08:49:00.002-05:00

GUELPH, Ontario January 19, 2012 - University of Guelph News Release

The University of Guelph’s Alumni Stadium is getting a facelift. A $1.5-million donation is paying for a new synthetic turf field and jump-starting renovations of the track around the football field and lighting as part of the Athletics Master Plan to upgrade all the University’s athletic facilities.

It was approved by the University’s Board of Governors Wednesday.

The gift — from a local family who wishes to remain anonymous — is the largest single donation to U of G’s Department of Athletics.

“This is wonderful news,” said president Alastair Summerlee. “While the donors do not play to the spotlight, they have been key supporters of our BetterPlanet Project and already made major gifts to support academic and athletic programs at the University. This latest gift is another example of their humble generosity.”

The total estimated cost of the improvements is $4.9 million. The University is seeking additional funding from private donors, grants and other sources. The University is working closely with Friends of Gryphon Football and other alumni groups to raise further financial support through the BetterPlanet Project campaign.

Tom Kendall, director of athletics, said:

“The renovations to Alumni Stadium combined with the recent installation of the rugby field, soccer complex and new field house mean that U of G now has one of the best outdoor and indoor field facilities in Canada. Not only will it be a welcome addition to Gryphon athletics, but it also will benefit the community. The synthetic turf means that we can use the facilities more extensively for University and community events, regardless of weather.”

The artificial field surface will also accommodate non-sporting events such as concerts and Orientation Week events, Kendall said.

Construction will begin as soon as possible. Officials hope to have the new facilities ready for fall semester, including for the Gryphons' first home football game Sept. 15.

U of G’s Athletics Master Plan also includes installing artificial turf on outdoor playing fields — a project that was completed last fall — and building and renovating a student fitness and recreation complex. Student fees for athletics improvements approved in a 2010 referendum will generate about $75 million over 30 years.

The plan will be implemented in phases as funding permits.

Noting the importance of athletics in attracting and retaining students, Kendall said these and related improvements are essential for the University’s future.

“We also recognize the importance of a healthy lifestyle for student success. These changes will allow us to continue to be leaders in student support.”

More than 5,600 Canadians seriously injured every year from winter activities

2012-01-17T15:21:00.002-05:00

Skiing and snowboarding lead to twice as many hospitalizations as hockey

OTTAWA, January 17, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - While hockey hits have been getting a lot of attention in Canada, skiing and snowboarding injuries are more than twice as common, according to new data released today by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI). In 2010-2011, there were 2,329 hospital admissions for a skiing or snowboarding fall or crash, compared with 1,114 hockey-related hospitalizations. Other seasonal activities also led to hospital stays: ice skating (889); snowmobiling (1,126); and tobogganing (171).

"There is a lot to enjoy about Canadian winters, but safety and precautions are important across all age groups," explains Greg Webster, Director of Primary Health Care Information and Clinical Registries at CIHI. "Every year, more than 5,000 Canadians get seriously injured—requiring at least one night's hospital stay—due to a winter sport or recreational activity. These numbers do not include visits that involve only the emergency department (ED) or a doctor's office, or deaths at the scene, so the total number of injuries is actually much higher."

In terms of total ED visits for these seasonal activities, Ontario (where complete data is available) alone saw a total of 45,270 in 2010-2011. That averages out to 285 ED visits for every day of winter.

Most often hurt while playing: boys age 10 to 19

Half of all hospitalizations during 2010-2011 for hockey injuries (542 out of 1,114) and close to one-third of all those for skiing and snowboarding (689 out of 2,329) were for people age 10 to 19. When looking at all winter activities in this age group, boys accounted for 81% of those hurt.

Children younger than 10 were hospitalized most often for injuries related to skiing and snowboarding (87 cases) and tobogganing (56 cases).

Of the activities studied, snowmobiling was the only one not over-represented by younger Canadians in terms of hospitalizations: two-thirds (752 out of 1,126) of serious snowmobile injuries occurred in adults age 20 to 49.

Past five years see little change in number of serious injuries

The total number of hospitalizations related to seasonal activities has not changed much since 2006-2007. As well, in 2010-2011, 415 Canadians were hospitalized for head injuries related to a winter sport or recreational activity; this number has remained relatively stable since 2006-2007.

Last year, nearly one-third (135) of these serious head injuries occurred while skiing or snowboarding. Over the past five years, a total of 759 head injury hospitalizations were related to ski hill activities in Canada.

"When it comes to winter, it's important that Canadians get outside to play and enjoy our slopes," says Dr. Natalie Yanchar, Associate Professor of Surgery and Emergency Medicine at Dalhousie University, and Medical Director at IWK Trauma Care in Halifax. "Wearing a helmet is important for all ages to prevent a fun day in the snow from ending in tragedy—without question, it reduces the risk of serious head injuries in case of a crash."

Older Canadians most often hurt by falls on ice

For all winter-related causes of serious injuries (excluding motor vehicle collisions), falls on ice were by far the most common cause: they led to 7,138 hospital admissions in 2010-2011, more than for all winter sports and recreational activities combined. About half of these cases occurred in people age 60 and older and about 70% were among those 50 and older.

More than half (56%) of those hospitalized for falls on ice were women.

Is it true that no two snowflakes are exactly alike?

2012-01-12T07:43:00.002-05:00

Snowflake Physics at Perimeter's Public Lecture on February 1st

WATERLOO, Ontario, January 11, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - We shovel them, we hide from them, and we rejoice when they give us an extra day's holiday. In a Canadian winter, the snowflake is everywhere. But how do they form? What do their complex and striking shapes tell us about nature? Looking back to our childhood, is it true that no two are exactly alike?

On Wednesday, February 1, as part of Perimeter Institute's Public Lecture Series presented by Sun Life Financial, Kenneth Libbrecht, Physics Professor at Caltech, takes us on a visual journey to expose the secret life of a snowflake. Explore how the intricate, symmetrical and magnificent patterns emerge in nature's frozen art through a series of scientific data and spectacular photographs.

Kenneth Libbrecht knows perhaps more than anyone should about the science of snowflakes. Libbrecht is a professor and Chairman of the Physics Department at Caltech, following his PhD in physics from Princeton University. In the mid-1990s, Libbrecht's extensive research of the molecular dynamics of crystal growth led him back to his roots in North Dakota for a detailed study of how ice crystals - the snowflake - quite literally appear out of thin air.

Kenneth Libbrecht's lecture, entitled "The Secret Life of a Snowflake: An Up-Close Look at the Science and the Splendour of Nature's Frozen Art" will be held Wednesday, February 1 at 7:00 PM ET in Waterloo, Ontario. Tickets will be available starting Monday, January 16, 2012.

Further details can be found at www.perimeterinstitute.ca

About Perimeter Institute

Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics (PI) is an independent, non-profit, scientific research organization working to advance our understanding of physical laws and develop new ideas about the very essence of space, time, matter and information. Located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, PI also provides a wide array of research training and educational outreach activities to nurture scientific talent and share the importance of discovery and innovation among students, teachers and the general public. In partnership with the Governments of Ontario and Canada, PI is a successful example of public-private collaboration in scientific research, training and outreach. www.perimeterinstitute.ca

Men three times less likely than women to protect their skin in the winter

2012-01-11T09:02:00.001-05:00

Survey finds just four per cent of men wear sunscreen in the winter

OAKVILLE, Ontario, January 11, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - While many Canadian men are layering up in flannel shirts and long johns this winter, results from a recent survey commissioned by the Melanoma Network of Canada show they are forgetting one important layer of protection: sunscreen. Just four per cent of men wear sunscreen in the winter, putting them at risk of developing skin cancer from winter sun exposure.

Ninety per cent of melanomas, the deadliest form of skin cancer, are caused by exposure to UV radiation from light and sunlight. Winter conditions create a particularly advantageous environment for intensifying UV radiation. Snow reflects as much as 80 per cent of UV radiation, which is much higher than the amount reflected by water or dry beach sand (10 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively) even in summer. Melanoma is the second most common cancer in young adults aged 18-34. The incidence of melanoma has more than tripled over the last thirty years and continues to increase.

Julia Murray, a Canadian Olympic Ski Cross athlete, is all too familiar with the consequences of not protecting your skin in the winter. Julia lost her father Dave Murray - a two-time Olympian and member of the infamous Crazy Canucks - from an advanced form of skin cancer when she was very young. As a result, Julia is doing everything she can to help raise awareness of this cause, including teaming up with the Melanoma Network of Canada to educate Canadians on the dangers of UV radiation in winter months.

"My father wasn't aware of the risks of UV radiation in winter," says Julia. "The winter sun is just as dangerous as summer sun. As a skier myself, I take precautions against winter sun, and I encourage all others who are outside enjoying the slopes or other outdoor activities to do the same this winter."

Survey results show that men are more relaxed in their attitudes and behaviours towards sun awareness and protection. Men are less likely than women to:

...Accurately identify melanoma as skin cancer (80 per cent vs. 86 per cent);

...Wear sunscreen in all situations, regardless of the season; and

...Consider environmental effects as factors in changing the intensity of UV rays.

Furthermore, when men aged 18 to 34 were asked about their greatest skin-related concern, they ranked moisturizing, preventing pimples and acne and preventing skin cancer equally. This is particularly disconcerting as the lifetime risk of melanoma for men is higher than in women. In fact, men will account for 56 per cent of all new cases of melanoma this year and 62 per cent of deaths.4

Canadians spend a lot of time outdoors in the winter and may not realize they are putting themselves at risk by not wearing sunscreen.

"Over exposure to winter sun is dangerous because UV radiation can't be seen or felt," says Annette Cyr, chair of the Melanoma Network of Canada. "UV radiation levels are influenced by the sun's elevation, cloud cover, altitude and reflection - not temperature of the air, which means that sunscreen is required year-round. If skin is left unprotected, the risk of melanoma increases."

Exposed skin is at risk of more than frostbite

Melanoma is the most aggressive and deadliest form of skin cancer. An estimated 5,500 Canadians will be diagnosed with melanoma this year and 950 will die from it.5 The survival rate for melanoma is high if it is detected early and, unlike many cancers, melanoma is clearly visible on the skin.

"Many Canadians are unaware that winter sun is strong enough to put their skin at risk of damage. In Canada the sun is strong enough to cause skin cancer," says Dr. Teresa Petrella, medical oncologist and head of the melanoma group at Sunnybrook's Odette Cancer Centre. "UV reflection from snow and ice should not be underestimated and Canadians need to take steps to protect themselves before it's too late."

Winter sun safety tips:

...Melanoma Network Canada urges Canadians to protect themselves from UV radiation by wearing sunscreen in the winter.

...Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on all exposed areas, and apply just before going outside.

...Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after excessive sweating.

...Protect yourself with clothing, a hat with a brim, and sunglasses year-round.

...Check your skin monthly to detect malignant melanoma early.

More information on winter sun safety is available at www.melanomanetwork.ca

About the Melanoma Network Canada (MNC)

Melanoma Network Canada (MNC) is a patient-led organization dedicated to the prevention and elimination of melanoma. Established in 2009 by a small group of patients and caregivers, the MNC works in collaboration with medical professionals, health care agencies and other stakeholders to educate, advocate and fund for early diagnosis and effective treatment of melanoma, education, prevention and awareness programs, relevant and innovative research, support for patients and an improved quality of life for those living with melanoma.

About the Survey

From December 13, 2011 to December 14, 2011, Angus Reid Public Opinion conducted an online survey on behalf of the Melanoma Network of Canada. One thousand and three Canadian adults were surveyed. The margin of error for a sample of this size is 3.1+/- %, 19 times out of 20. The sample is representative of the national population and the results have been statistically weighted according to the most recent age, gender and region census data.

Builders shortlisted for Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games' project

2011-12-24T09:37:00.004-05:00

TORONTO, December 23, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Infrastructure Ontario and TO2015 announced today the companies short-listed to build and finance three venues for the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games.

The development of three venues in time for the Games will immediately provide an economic boost in the Greater Toronto Area region by creating and supporting direct and indirect jobs. These facilities will also address the long-term needs of growing communities across the Greater Toronto Area and encourage the development and promotion of amateur competitive sports locally.

"The 2015 Games will create thousands of jobs and will be an important economic driver in the Greater Golden Horseshoe region. They will bring new sporting and recreation facilities to local communities and help promote Ontario as a great place to live, do business, invest and visit." -Honourable Charles Sousa, Minister responsible for the Pan/Parapan American Games

The project includes:

...construction of a new Markham Pool and Field House facility that will host the water polo and badminton competitions for the Games;

...renovations and improvements to the existing Etobicoke Olympium facility, which will be the training site for aquatic disciplines including swimming, water polo, diving and synchronized swimming during the Games; and

...construction of a new two-field Pan American Field Hockey Centre; plans include the two fields to be located on University of Toronto lands.

Over the past few months, companies participated in a fair and competitive request for qualifications (RFQ) process that reviewed their construction and financing abilities to deliver the project.

Following Infrastructure Ontario's evaluations of the RFQ submissions, the following companies were short-listed and will be invited to respond to the request for proposals (RFP) for the project:

...PCL Constructors Canada Inc.

...EllisDon Corporation

...Bondfield Construction Company Limited

The RFP will be issued in February 2012.

The construction of these facilities and their operation during the Pan/Parapan American Games is a joint initiative of the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada, in partnership with the Town of Markham, City of Toronto and the University of Toronto.

"This investment will provide Ontarians with access to modern, safe and efficient infrastructure. This project is part of our government's long-term infrastructure plan Building Together, which demonstrates the McGuinty government's commitment to stimulate the economy, create jobs and build strong communities." - Honourable Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Infrastructure

Infrastructure Ontario is a Crown corporation dedicated to delivering some of the province's larger and more complex infrastructure renewal projects using public-private partnerships and other delivery methods, on time and on budget; managing one of the largest real estate portfolios in Canada; asset planning; and providing long-term financing to public sector and not-for-profit organizations for public infrastructure renewal.

About the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games

The Pan and Parapan American Games are one of the world's largest international multi-sport events, held every four years for athletes of the 41 member nations of the Pan American Sports Organization (PASO). The Toronto 2015 Pan and Parapan American Games will draw 10,000 athletes and officials to municipalities across the Greater Golden Horseshoe area. The Toronto 2015 Pan American Games will take place July 10-26 and the Parapan American Games August 7-14.

Visit www.infrastructureontario.ca or www.toronto2015.org for more information.

New and adjusted service for Kitchener, Guelph and Georgetown GO Bus passengers

2011-12-22T16:03:00.002-05:00

TORONTO, December 22, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Starting December 31, 2011, GO Transit will be increasing service and making some adjustments on its Georgetown GO Bus route and introducing new Kitchener and Guelph routes. The new routes supplement GO Train service to those areas, which starts on December 19. Passengers are encouraged to check gotransit.com/schedules for specific schedule information.

Highlights of the changes include:

30 - Kitchener/Bramalea GO Bus (New route)
New eastbound bus trip departing Kitchener GO Station at 7:55 a.m. will run express to Bramalea GO Station to connect to the 9:35 train to Union Station
3 new afternoon westbound trips from Bramalea GO Station connecting to train service from Union.

31 - Georgetown GO Bus
The weekday eastbound 9:25 am trip from Georgetown GO Station will now run express from Hwy 10 and Bovaird Dr. in Brampton to Union.
5 new weekday eastbound trips will depart Brampton Bus Terminal hourly starting at 10:05 a.m. and until 2:05 p.m., serve Shopper's World, Steeles and Rutherford, then run express to Union Station, arriving from 10:50 a.m. until 2:50 p.m.
2 new weekday eastbound trips departing Bramalea GO Station at 1:20 p.m. and 2:50 will serve Malton GO Station and run express to Union.

39 - Guelph/Bramalea GO Bus (New route)
New trips between Guelph Central GO Station and Bramalea GO Station connecting to train and bus trips serving Union Station.

For specific schedule information, please visit gotransit.com/schedules, or call 1.888.GET ON GO (438.6646) or 1.800.387.3652 TTY.

We will do our best to be on time, visit us at gotransit.com/promise/on-time.

GO Transit is Metrolinx's interregional public transit system linking Toronto with the surrounding regions of the Greater Toronto & Hamilton Area. GO carries about 57 million passengers a year in an extensive network of train and bus services that spans over 10,000 square kilometres. Metrolinx is an agency of the Province of Ontario. Follow GO on Twitter and Facebook.

Halifax to Host Telus World Skins Game for First Time

2011-12-12T16:14:00.001-05:00

Prestigious Golf Event Celebrates its 20th Anniversary in Canada in July 2012

HALIFAX, December 12, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Halifax, Nova Scotia will host the TELUS World Skins Game for the first time in July 2012 as the popular golf event celebrates its 20th anniversary in Canada next summer. The world-class Glen Arbour Golf Course was announced today as the host site for the historic event that will see five top PGA TOUR professionals compete in the Canadian summer golf tradition July 29-31, 2012.

"The TELUS World Skins Game has a long history of visiting Canada's top tourist and golf destinations and Halifax is the ideal city to host the 20th anniversary celebration of this important Canadian event," said Gen. (Ret.) Rick Hillier, Chair of the TELUS Atlantic Canada Community Board. "This marquee event not only provides a memorable opportunity for local golf fans to see some of the best players in the world compete in their own backyard, but it also allows TELUS to leave a significant charitable legacy in the Atlantic Canada community."

The TELUS World Skins Game is always a highlight of the Canadian summer sporting schedule for the country's most passionate golf fans, as well as the community that hosts it. Fulfilling its promise to "give where we live," the TELUS World Skins Game has raised more than $10 million since 2001 for a wide variety of important causes across Canada.

The first Skins Game was held in 1993 at Devil's Pulpit Golf Club in Caledon, Ontario, and during its 19-year history has seen some of the biggest names in professional golf compete at Canada's top golf destinations, including Jack Nicklaus, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples, Mike Weir and Greg Norman.

"The 20th anniversary of the TELUS World Skins Game is an excellent opportunity to showcase Nova Scotia on the world stage," said Percy Paris, Minister, Economic and Rural Development and Tourism. "Major events such as these help to attract visitors to our province, build Nova Scotia's tourism industry and grow our economy."

Glen Arbour Golf Course is one of Atlantic Canada's premiere golf destinations. Glen Arbour Golf Course is owned and operated by Annapolis Group Inc. a land development company whose roots dates back to the 1930's, currently owned by the Hennigar Family, descendants of the late Roy Jodrey, the company's founder. Since opening in 1999, Glen Arbour has played host to a number of prestigious golf events including the inaugural Wayne Gretzky and Friends Invitational in 2000 and the BMO Canadian Ladies Open in 2005.

"We have wanted to bring the event to Halifax for many years and we're thrilled that the stars have aligned to allow us to come to Glen Arbour for this important anniversary event," said Danny Fritz, vice president and co-managing director at IMG Canada. "We're looking forward to celebrating this anniversary event with the golf fans of Nova Scotia and will be working over the next few months to make next summer's TELUS World Skins Game a very memorable event."

About IMG

IMG Worldwide is a global sports, entertainment and media business, with nearly 3,000 employees operating in 30 countries around the globe. IMG's areas of expertise are diverse and wide ranging: IMG College; IMG's Joint Ventures in China, Brazil and India; IMG Media; IMG Events and Federations; IMG Fashion; IMG Models; IMG Art + Commerce; IMG Clients; IMG Academies; IMG Consulting and IMG Licensing. More information is available at www.imgworld.com.

About TELUS

In support of our philosophy to give where we live, TELUS, our team members and retirees will, by year-end 2011, have contributed $245 million to charitable and not-for-profit organizations and volunteered 4.1 million hours of service to local communities since 2000. Eleven TELUS Community Boards across Canada lead TELUS' local philanthropic initiatives. TELUS was honoured to be named the most outstanding philanthropic corporation globally for 2010 by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, becoming the first Canadian company to receive this prestigious international recognition.

For more information about TELUS, please visit telus.com.

CMA releases guidance for doctors to "friend" social media

2011-12-03T08:38:00.004-05:00

OTTAWA, December 2, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Canadian Medical Association Board of Directors today approved Canada's first-ever national social media guidelines to help doctors safely, effectively and responsibly use tools such as Facebook, Twitter and other forms of social media as they care for patients.

The CMA's document Social media and Canadian physicians Issues and rules of engagement (http://www.cma.ca/socialmedia) provides practical considerations and outlines the potential benefits and drawbacks of social media for physicians.

"People everywhere are using social media," CMA President Dr. John Haggie said. "We know our patients are searching for health-related information and discussing health issues in blogs and other online forums.

"We also know physicians are using social media in their personal lives and exploring how they can use these communications tools to inform the public or connect with their peers."

The CMA joins other national medical associations, such as the American Medical Association, the British Medical Association, the New Zealand Medical Association and the Australian Medical Association, in providing guidance on this topic for their members.

"The reality is that individual doctors and medical organizations have to consciously decide if, why and how to use the various social media platforms," the document states.

"While use of social media could potentially increase the exposure of physicians to disciplinary and medico-legal issues, those physicians who choose to use social media can help shape how these tools can improve health care in the future."

The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) is the national voice of Canadian physicians. Founded in 1867, CMA's mission is to serve and unite the physicians of Canada and be the national advocate, in partnership with the people of Canada, for the highest standards of health and health care. The CMA is a voluntary professional organization representing over 76,000 of Canada's physicians and comprising 12 provincial and territorial medical associations and 51 national medical organizations.

Former LPGA Tour Pro AJ Eathorne to join Predator Ridge's Golf Academy

2011-11-30T12:20:00.001-05:00

Penticton native to head up ladies' instruction in 2012 season

VERNON, British Columbia, November 30, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Predator Ridge announced today former LPGA professional AJ Eathorne will be joining their Golf Academy team, where she once trained, at the start of the 2012 season. She will be responsible for ladies' instruction, continued development of the junior program, providing demonstrations and clinics to corporate groups, as well as acting as an ambassador for Predator's golf program in the community.

Eathorne, a three-time British Columbia Ladies Amateur champion and winner of the Canadian Ladies Amateur Championship (1997) brings to Predator Ridge a wealth of professional and personal experience in the golf industry. Prior to joining the resort, she spent over a decade as a golf professional in the LPGA

The Weather Network's Winter Outlook: Meteorologists share what to expect this winter

2011-11-29T12:02:00.003-05:00

The Weather Network's Health and Fitness Contributor keeps you in tip top shape this season

OAKVILLE, Ontario, November 28, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Weather Network has just released its outlook for the months of December, January and February, and Canadians can expect a roller coaster winter from coast to coast, thanks to La Niña.

A phenomenon characterized by colder than normal waters in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of South America, La Niña impacts weather patterns around the world. In Canada, weather patterns can be stormier than normal during a La Niña year. Extreme temperature swings are not uncommon and, Canadians can expect windier conditions at times as a result of an active jet stream.

"We are expecting a 'melting pot' of weather this winter. From wild and wide swings in temperatures to sloppy winter storms in Southern Canada bringing snow, freezing rain and rain all within the same system," says Chris Scott, Forecast Operations Manager with The Weather Network. "While Western Canada has already experienced its first taste of winter, the heart of the winter season might be slightly delayed in Eastern Canada."

The Western Canada Winter

Good news for winter sports enthusiasts on the west coast; above average precipitation has been forecasted for Southern British Columbia. Canadians living in many areas of western Canada will experience cooler than normal temperatures throughout the winter.

The Eastern Canada Winter

Above normal temperatures will dominate most of The Great Lakes region through to southern areas of the Maritimes. Near normal precipitation is in the outlook for Canadians living east of the Manitoba/Ontario border.

Get Active and Warm Up Your Winter

The weather outside is frightful? Don't hibernate - keep fit and have outdoor fun with the following tips from The Weather Network's Health and Fitness contributor Brendan Fox:

...Get Outside: No need for cabin fever this winter! It's time to get just as active as the weather. From snowshoes, to cross-country skiing, to skating, to pulling the kids in a sled, there are tons of ways to get the family involved and burn those extra calories from all the holiday snacks.

...Shield Your Skin: Feel like frolicking in the snow? Make sure you protect your skin! Getting sunburned in the winter is just as easy as in the summer - even more so if you're exercising outside in the snow or at high altitudes! Before you leave the house, check The Weather Network's UV Report and protect yourself with sunscreen that has a minimum SPF of 30 and blocks both UVA, as well as UVB rays.

...Hydrate!: Believe it or not, people are less mindful about hydration during the winter months and tend to dehydrate more often. With the dry air and extra layers, keeping your hydration level up in the winter is key.

...Get Your Daily Dose of Vitamin D: Vitamin D levels dip during the winter months. Vitamin D is extremely important for calcium absorption and overall health. It is recommended that individuals up to 70 years of age have 600 international units (IU) of Vitamin D per day. While the winter sun can give us a natural dose, incorporating fish into your diet will help you weather stormy stay-indoors days. Sardines, Catfish, Salmon and Tuna all pack over 200 IU for a 3oz portion. For vegetarians, shitake mushrooms pack roughly 29 IU per 5 oz serving.

...Get Creative With Indoor Workouts: Turning your home into a gym is as easy as turning on your vacuum. For those days when the weather gets you down, transform some of your household chores into gym-worthy moves. Increase your heart rate by vacuuming faster or walking/running up and down your stairs. Work those glutes by doing some squats when washing your windows or dusting. Also, commercials are a great time to fit in a quick workout while watching TV.

The Weather Network's winter outlook is now available online and to learn even more about the expected conditions this winter, tune into The Weather Network's broadcast on November 28th for reports with Meteorologist Martin Belanger following the Local Forecast at 10 and 40 minutes past the hour.

The Weather Network and its French counterpart, MétéoMédia, are among the most popular media brands in Canada. They are the undisputed leader of weather information services in Canada across all mediums including cable, satellite, online, mobile and newspapers. The specialty television networks are among the most widely distributed and frequently consulted television networks in Canada. The websites, theweathernetwork.com and meteomedia.com, are among Canada's leading web services. All mobile carriers now distribute The Weather Network and MétéoMédia on their services. As the leading source of weather services in the commercial market, energy companies, municipalities, road services and numerous other commercial clients have their weather information needs met by The Weather Network and MétéoMédia. The growth of The Weather Network and MétéoMédia can be attributed to the continued focus and commitment put into providing the very best weather information to Canadians whose activities are dependent on weather.

Free Your Milk: Restaurant Industry Leaders Appeal to Dairy Commission for Action on Inflated Prices

2011-11-23T13:01:00.001-05:00

Outdated supply management policies restrict growth of Canadian dairy market

OTTAWA, November 22, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association (CRFA) will appear before the Canadian Dairy Commission (CDC) today calling for relief from artificially inflated dairy prices. More reasonable prices will allow restaurants to put more milk, cheese and other dairy products on their menus and help to reverse a trend of declining consumer demand for dairy products.

The CRFA will present to the CDC's three-person board of directors, which holds closed meetings to set the price of industrial milk, used to make cheese and other dairy products.

"Canadian restaurants buy over $2.7 billion worth of dairy products each year and we are concerned by the artificially high, government-fixed prices as set by the CDC," says CRFA President and CEO Garth Whyte. "Over the past decade, the price of industrial milk has been rising faster than inflation and faster than the cost of dairy production. Canadian consumers deserve a break."

Data from the CDC and Statistics Canada indicate that the price of industrial milk has increased almost 10 times faster than the cost of production since 1994. Even during years where cost of production fell, the CDC did not pass on savings to Canadian dairy consumers.

"We need reasonable pricing if we are going to grow the dairy industry in Canada," says Whyte. "Our members tell us that dairy products are being priced right off the menu."

The CDC's closed-door pricing sessions follow the launch of CRFA's Free Your Milk campaign (www.freeyourmilk.ca), designed to draw attention to the 40-year-old supply management policies responsible for inflating the cost of dairy in Canada to double the international market average. The Free Your Milk campaign grew from consumer research commissioned by CRFA that found 70% of Canadians feel that keeping the cost of milk and dairy products down is very or somewhat important.

"We are encouraged that the government is finally starting to consider the real costs and the opportunity costs of our current dairy system when it comes to international trade and access to growing world markets," says Whyte. "While we look forward to a fair and transparent system in the future, today we are focused on a fair price for Canadian consumers and restaurant operators."

About the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association

The Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association (CRFA) is one of Canada's largest business associations, representing more than 30,000 members across the country in every sector of the vibrant foodservice industry, including restaurants, bars, cafeterias, coffee shops and contract and social caterers. Canada's $63-billion foodservice industry employs more than one million people in communities across the country. Through advocacy, research, member savings and industry events, we help our members grow and prosper

680News Rings in the Holidays with All Christmas News

2011-11-18T10:55:00.003-05:00

TORONTO, November 17, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - This Holiday Season, while many music radio stations across the world will be changing their format to All Christmas Music, 680News will be making history by introducing All Christmas News.

Beginning Monday, Nov. 21, 680News becomes the first radio station in the world to air an All Christmas News story at 25 minutes past the hour, every hour. Stories will focus on different aspects of the Holiday Season, featuring everything from products to traditions and customs to holiday treats and more.

The on-air stories will be complemented with a special sub-page on 680News.com, where listeners can hear the stories again and share their own Christmas stories.

"Music stations tend to 'own' Christmas, but we feel there is a strong interest from listeners to hear about all the wonderful and compelling Christmas stories that often go untold," said John Hinnen, Vice-President and GM, 680News, Rogers Radio. "What started off as a crazy idea, has turned into a unique offering that give us the opportunity to engage our listeners in the spirit of the season."

Listeners will be able to hear the All Christmas News stories until December 25 on 680News and online at 680News.com.

About 680News

680News, Toronto's only All News radio station, and the world's first All Christmas News station, is one of 55 AM and FM radio stations owned and operated by Rogers Broadcasting, a division of Rogers Media Inc.

Interesting Websites to Visit: British Waterscape

2011-11-11T13:36:00.002-05:00

The Waterscape website is the official British waterways leisure destination. It is "for people who care about Britain's canals and rivers" and it offers up information on canalside attractions, suggestions for walking around the canal towpaths, and materials on volunteering opportunities.

First-time visitors can get started by clicking on the "Canals & Rivers" section. Here they will find a clickable map of Scotland and Britain where they can learn more about the waterways in each region.

Moving along, the "Things to Do" area includes detailed leisure guides for boaters, fishers, cyclists, and avid walkers. For those who are interested in these waterways, but live across the big pond, the site also contains a "Features & Articles" area that includes longer pieces on the history of the different canals and rivers throughout the country.

Finally, visitors may wish to follow the Waterscape folks via their Twitter feed.

[KMG]
>From The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout 1994-2011.
http://scout.wisc.edu/

Red Cross develops first set of international first aid and resuscitation guidelines

2011-11-08T10:17:00.002-05:00

OTTAWA, November 7, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - After three years of research with the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation, the Red Cross has developed the first set of international First Aid & Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) guidelines for all Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to apply to their first aid programs.

"These guidelines are a testament to our expanding role in the research and development process," says Rick Caissie, national directory of Injury Prevention Programs for the Canadian Red Cross. "We take pride in the fact that our program incorporates the latest research on how to further reduce injury and improve treatment for those in need."

Beginning November 1, the Canadian Red Cross will instruct it's more than 4,700 First Aid & CPR instructors on how to teach these new guidelines over a three-month period and the revised program will be offered early next year.

"We are dedicated to spending the necessary time to ensure our instructors understand the scope of the changes before delivering these guidelines during sessions with the public," adds Caissie.

The Canadian Red Cross is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and over 185 national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.

Street View-Style Tour Of National Park Hiking Trails Coming to Your Computer

2011-10-28T16:41:00.002-04:00

photo credit: natalielucier/CC BY 1.0

from TreeHugger.com
by Jaymi Heimbuch, San Francisco, California

Nature Valley is pulling a Google and bringing national park hiking trails online street view-style. The company hopes to raise awareness of the significant problems national parks face, including widespread closures, by getting the gorgeous scenery on our computer screens and getting people interested in visiting, or at least preserving these wonderful spaces.

Fast Company gives us the news that Nature Valley is releasing Trail View in early 2012. Trail View will feature vistas from the Great Smoky Mountains, Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, with about 100 miles from each location shown in images. It will be essentially virtual hiking.

There are ups and downs to this. The ups include:
1) Yay!! for getting more people to see what nature has to offer.
2) Yay!! for showing our awesome national parks off so that people are aware of what they offer us
3) Yay!! for the potential to boost support to protect these parks and keep them open.

But of course, the con is will it really get people off their butts and out the door to actually go enjoy that nature?

Studies have shown that being out in nature makes us happier people, so we can only hope that yes, for at least some, Trail View will be an inspiration. And for those that don't get outside, well, hopefully it will inspire some generous donations.

"This initiative lets [Nature Valley] stand for something," says Leslie Sims, executive creative director at McCann. "They aren't just pushing granola bars on hikers."

Apparently Trail View wasn't all that easy of a task, either. According to Fast Company, the National Park Conservation Association is usually very picky about filming on their grounds, but the company had a strong enough relationship with the organization that they got the thumbs up as long as they kept their promise to make no environmental impact. After all, "leave only footprints" goes for everyone. And getting the actual footage required a few teams:

The actual filming went off without a hitch, however, barring the occasional alarming grizzly bear scratch mark on trees. From a distance, the assembled masses would have looked like a caravan of settlers. The field crew from Backpacker Magazine (or "bear bait" as Patterson referred to them) headed up the front, setting the pace and keeping the operation environmentally sound. Shortly behind them were the agency creatives, who scouted locations and points of interest. The next wave included the tech team--who kept lenses clean, adjusted settings, and kept the cameras out of contact with each other--as well as master cameraman, Brandon McLane. Finally, trailing behind, was a sweeper team, who made sure nothing was left behind. Although some of the crew only stayed for shorter periods, the hike lasted 45 days total.

We're excited to see the first stage of Trail View in February of 2012, and will look forward to seeing how the release affects support of our great national parks.
Visit TreeHugger to see what's new. 30+ fresh, green stories every day!

Wendy's to test new restaurant concept in Canada

2011-10-26T18:17:00.002-04:00

"Wendy's first Canadian concept store features new menu items in an ultra modern setting. The concept store marks a complete redesign of the Wendy's customer experience, indoors and out. (CNW Group/Wendy's International, Inc.)".

ETOBICOKE, Ontario, October 26, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Beginning today, Wendy's customers in Etobicoke, ON will have the opportunity to try new menu items in an ultra modern setting as the company opens one of four new concept stores to be tested in North America. It is the first Canadian concept store for the company. Redhead Roasters proprietary blend coffee and fresh baked goods including oatmeal bars, cookies, muffins and brownies will be tested alongside a new customer ordering process, digital menu boards, new service staff uniforms and redesigned product packaging.

"This is a very different experience from what Wendy's customers are used to," said Ron Baugh, Senior Vice President of Wendy's Restaurants of Canada. "Three years of research and feedback from thousands of people are reflected in this exciting new concept store. The changes are more than cosmetic. We've updated our customer experience indoors and out as well."

The new restaurant concept has been designed to deliver more open space, brighter dining rooms with bigger windows and a variety of seating options from booths to high tops to cozy chairs around a fireplace. The new concept is also equipped with free WiFi. Customers will be able to view baking and prep areas, keeping Wendy's fresh food story front and centre.

Natural colours, brick and wood materials and bold use of the colour red are features of the completely remodeled interior and exterior design. A bright red centre wall celebrates Wendy's heritage with the well-known quote from founder Dave Thomas, "Quality is our recipe". Signage in the new entry way reads, "Welcome to real. Welcome to fresh. Welcome to Wendy's Etobicoke".

Each sign in the new stores will be tailored to their home cities.

The company will evaluate the four concepts based on customer feedback and consumer research. A second Canadian ultra modern location is slated to open in Kingston this December.

All four new Wendy's concepts were designed by Tesser, an award-winning brand strategy and retail design firm based in San Francisco. Other test markets include Virginia Beach, Pittsburgh, Phoenix and Wendy's home town of Dublin, OH.

The first Canadian concept store is located at 1569 The Queensway in Etobicoke, Ontario. The Kingston concept store is scheduled to open in December 2011, and is located at 17 Warne Crescent.

About the Wendy's Company

Wendy's is one of the world's most successful restaurant companies with more than 6,600 restaurants worldwide. More information about The Wendy's Company is available at www.wendys.ca.

Physiotherapists give thumbs up to Nordic pole walking and prescribe it for patients with a variety of conditions

2011-10-20T09:20:00.001-04:00

OTTAWA, October 19, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - An increasing number of Canadian physiotherapists are realizing the benefits of Nordic pole walking for their patients, adding a rehabilitation dimension to the already-popular fitness trend.

Nordic pole walking boasts an easy-to-learn technique, with little risk to the body. It helps strengthen core muscles, contributes to weight loss and decreases stress on hips and knees. The versatility of the activity makes it appealing to physiotherapists, who see it as ideal for people with mobility issues, or those living with chronic conditions such as arthritis.

While Nordic walking can be practised almost anywhere, it's important to have the right equipment and instruction. "Don't be tempted to use skiing, hiking or trekking poles, which are designed for totally different purposes," says Cathy McNorgan, a physiotherapist and certified Nordic walking instructor. All Nordic poles have a spike tip at the bottom for walking on variable outdoor terrain, covered by a rubber tip that grips sidewalks and other surfaces, to ensure safe use.

Physiotherapists prescribe this exercise to patients who would most benefit from the unique workout. The fluid and rhythmical pattern of walking can help to improve coordination and movement in people in the early stages of Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis, for example.

Researchers have discovered another hidden benefit to Nordic walking, which is that it gives patients a good total body and cardiovascular workout without being exhausting — it's effective and efficient. As a result, Nordic walking has proven to be successful with people who need to lose weight and just be more active generally.

"Many health benefits are directly related to how hard you work," says Gail Dechman, an assistant professor in the school of physiotherapy at Dalhousie University. "If people can elevate their heart rates using the Nordic walking technique without feeling like they're working harder, that's fantastic."

To learn more about incorporating Nordic walking into your rehabilitation, therapy or exercise routine, consult a physiotherapist. Find a physiotherapist near you at www.physiotherapy.ca

Minding Your Manners May Protect Your Health - Study

2011-10-16T09:03:00.001-04:00

Largest global behaviour study to date finds certain personality traits affect health outcomes

TORONTO, October 12, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Good manners will likely lead to better health, according to findings from the largest global study of hygiene behaviour to date.

In an effort to better understand health outcomes, such as colds and the flu, the Hygiene Council today announced results from its Lysol HABIT Study (Hygiene: Attitudes, Behaviour, Insight, and Traits), which explored how certain demographics and personality traits influence hygiene practices. Based on 12,000 survey respondents in 12 countries, the study found that the biggest determinant of reported good health with low levels of colds and diarrhea was good manners. The odds of being healthy were almost two-and-a-half times higher among those who reported embarrassment at sneezing or coughing on others.

"Understanding what drives hygiene behaviour is very valuable," says Professor John Oxford, chairman of the Hygiene Council and professor of virology at Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry. "We want people to recognize that a change in behaviour may lead to overall better hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing and surface disinfection. These hygiene habits are the first defence against spreading germs and infectious diseases. Furthermore, the study findings can be used to help health organizations and healthcare professionals target hygiene education to certain individuals."

Canadian women clean up versus men

Among Canadians, the Lysol HABIT Study found that women were more hygienic than men. Women were found to be two times more likely than men to wash their hands regularly, and two-and-a-half times more likely to practice good household hygiene.

Additionally, Canadians with neurotic behaviours were more likely to practice better hygiene habits, and reported fewer incidences of contagious diseases and better overall health.

"The new findings from the study further emphasise how improved hygiene behaviour can effectively stop the spread of germs and protect health," says Dr. Donald Low, microbiologist-in-chief at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto. "Although some Canadians tend to the correct practices more easily, practicing good personal and household hygiene is everyone's responsibility and vital in breaking the chain of infection."

Cleanliness helps healthiness

With cold and flu season around the corner, the findings from the Lysol HABIT Study indicate the importance of promoting certain hygiene behaviours to break the chain of infection. Results from the Hygiene Council's 2011 Lysol Bacterial Survival Study show that bacteria can survive on a variety of household surfaces for an extended period of time - for up to two days - if not properly disinfected.

"Regular disinfection of hygiene hotspots is crucial for reducing the spread of bacteria in the home," says Dr. Low.

Food preparation surfaces, such as countertops, and high-traffic zones including door handles, light switches and inside refrigerators, are some germ hotspots in the home. Regular disinfecting of germ hotspots, regardless of visible dirt, will greatly reduce the risk of catching a cold or the flu inside the home. Disinfectants are specifically registered with Health Canada and carry a Drug Identification Number (DIN) on the label.

"We applaud the Hygiene Council in its continued efforts to inform and educate Canadians on how to best protect themselves and their families from the threat of infection," says Erica Di Ruggiero, Chair of the Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA). "Practicing good hygiene habits is something we can all do to protect ourselves against cold and flu."

Some more findings from the Lysol HABIT Study

...Among the 12 countries surveyed, Canada had the fourth highest rate of good personal hygiene. Brazil and Germany ranked the highest, and China, Malaysia and South Africa the lowest

...Among the 12 countries surveyed, Canada reported the second highest household hygiene levels. U.K. and Australia tied for the highest rank, and China, Malaysia and Middle East ranked the lowest

...The odds of having good personal and household hygiene increased with age and income

...Hygiene habits vary by profession with homemakers (64.5 per cent) reporting the highest level of personal hygiene and students (44.5 per cent) reporting the worst

...Regular use of antibacterial cleaning products is associated with tidiness, having children, strong household hygiene routines, higher income, education and automatic cleaning

About the Hygiene Council

The Hygiene Council, which was formed in 2006, is an initiative bringing together leading global experts in the field of microbiology, virology, infectious diseases, immunology and public health to formulate realistic and practical recommendations on simple hygiene measures to help the public improve levels of hygiene in the home and community and, in turn, help to prevent the spread of all kinds of infections. In 2011, the Hygiene Council held its annual meeting at the Centers for Disease Control headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. The work of the Hygiene Council is funded through an educational grant from Reckitt Benckiser, the makers of Lysol. For further information, please visit the Hygiene Council website at www.hygienecouncil.com.

About Reckitt Benckiser

Reckitt Benckiser is a leading international consumer products company in the health and personal care, condiment and household categories. The company manufactures and markets world-class products, including: LYSOL®, CLEARASIL®, STREPSILS®, VEET®, FRENCH'S® Mustard and many other consumer-preferred brands. Reckitt Benckiser (Canada) Inc. is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario.

Fire Prevention Week is here

2011-10-08T10:44:00.002-04:00

Protect Your Family from Fire is the theme for 2011

TORONTO, October 7, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Fire Prevention Week is October 9 to 15 and this year's theme is Protect Your Family from Fire. Designed to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities from fires, the theme emphasizes the importance of Ontarians taking responsibility for fire safety in their own homes.

Fire departments across the province will host events throughout the week that focus on a variety of fire safety measures to help Ontario families protect themselves from fire, including:

...Preventing cooking fires: The leading cause of residential fires in Ontario is unattended cooking. Prevent these fires by staying in the kitchen when cooking.

...Installing smoke alarms: It's the law in Ontario to have working smoke alarms on every storey of the home and outside all sleeping areas. Fire departments also recommend installing a smoke alarm in every bedroom. Test smoke alarms every month and change the batteries at least once a year or whenever the low-battery warning chirps.

...Developing a home fire escape plan: Occupants can have as little as 60 seconds to escape a fire in their home. Develop and practice a home fire escape plan so that everyone knows what do if a fire occurs.

"Fires can be prevented. Given the limited amount of time you have to escape a fire, Ontarians need to take responsibility for fire safety in their homes. I strongly urge Ontarians to stay in the kitchen while they are cooking, install smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas and practise their home fire escape plans. Fire safety is everyone's responsibility." - Ted Wieclawek, Ontario Fire Marshal

LEARN MORE

Each October, Fire Prevention Week enables fire departments across the province to organize a variety of educational fire safety activities within their communities. It also commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 in which an estimated 300 people tragically perished and some 18,000 buildings were destroyed. For more information about activities in your area, contact your local fire department.

Practical measures to reduce radiofrequency energy exposure from cell phone use

2011-10-06T09:32:00.005-04:00

October 6, 2011 - Health and Safety Watch - Health Canada offers practical advice on safe cell phone use:

The number of cell phone users in Canada rose from 100,000 in 1987 to more than 24 million by the end of 2010. With their growing popularity, questions have been raised about their safety. Cell phones emit low-levels of radiofrequency (RF) energy. The RF electromagnetic energy given off by cell phones is a type of non-ionizing radiation. It is similar to the type of energy used in AM/FM radio and TV broadcast signals.

Cell phones in Canada must meet regulatory requirements that limit human exposure to RF energy. Health Canada has developed guidelines for safe human exposure to RF energy.

Who is affected

There are a small number of epidemiology studies that have shown brain cancer rates might be elevated in long-term/heavy cell phone users. Other epidemiology studies on cell phone users, laboratory studies and animal cancer studies have not supported this association. The International Agency for Research on Cancer's (IARC) recent classification of RF energy as "possibly carcinogenic to humans" is an acknowledgement that limited data exists that suggests RF energy might cause cancer. At present, the scientific evidence is far from conclusive and more research is required.

Health Canada reminds cell phone users that they can take practical measures to reduce RF exposure. The department also encourages parents to reduce their children's RF exposure from cell phones since children are typically more sensitive to a variety of environmental agents. As well, there is currently a lack of scientific information regarding the potential health impacts of cell phones on children.

What consumers should do

...Limit the length of cell phone calls

...Replace cell phone calls with text messages or use "hands-free" devices

...Encourage children under the age of 18 to limit their cell phone usage

What Health Canada is doing

Health Canada has developed guidelines for safe human exposure to RF energy. The limits specified in Health Canada guidelines are based on an ongoing review of published scientific studies on the health impacts of RF energy. Using data from these studies, Health Canada set the general public exposure limits 50 times lower than the threshold for potentially adverse health effects.

Health Canada scientists continually review scientific studies in this area to ensure safety guidelines are sufficient for the protection of the health and safety of Canadians. The guidelines were updated in 2009, and the next update is planned for 2012.

Background

The radiofrequency (RF) energy given off by cell phones and cell phone towers is a type of non-ionizing radiation. It is similar to the type of energy used in AM/FM radio and TV broadcast signals. Unlike ionizing radiation (as emitted by X-ray machines), RF energy from cell phones cannot break chemical bonds in your body.

Cell phones are designed to operate at the minimum power necessary to connect and maintain a quality call. Cell phones transmit and receive radio signals from a network of fixed, low-power, cell phone towers. These towers are usually located on rooftops, towers and utility poles. The RF energy exposure levels around cell phone towers are typically well below the safety limits and are not considered a health concern. The transmitting power of a cell phone varies, depending on the type of network and its distance from the cell phone tower. The phone transmitting power generally increases the further you move away from the nearest cell phone tower.

Cell phones are regulated by Industry Canada. This Department also oversees the licensing and placement of cell phone towers, considers the effects on the environment and local land use before towers are installed, and ensures that these towers comply with their regulatory requirements. Industry Canada has adopted part of Health Canada's RF exposure guidelines to protect the general public by ensuring that exposures from cell phones and cell phone towers do not exceed the specified limits.

Begging Bear Comes Back to Celebrate Arts and Culture

2011-10-03T14:18:00.005-04:00

photo credit: fadedgenes via Flickr

GUELPH, Ontario October 1, 2011 University of Guelph Media Release - Among several activities led by the Macdonald Stewart Art Centre (MSAC) to celebrate local arts and culture on Oct. 1, the refurbished Canadiana/Begging Bear sculpture will be unveiled near the bus stop on Gordon Street.

Created by Carl Skelton and originally installed in 1999, the 7½-foot-tall bronze icon underwent repairs at a Georgetown, Ont., foundry after having been toppled over this past spring. The bear will stand on a new, sturdier base.

Begging Bear

“The return of the bear to MSAC is an emotional thing for me personally,” said Aidan Ware, the art centre’s co-ordinator of education and development.

“Like many in Guelph, I’m very attached to the sculpture. The bear has marked many important occasions in people’s lives in the community, and it’s very moving to see how people interact with this artwork. The bear’s hand is outstretched in the same way I hope our community will continue to reach out in a creative and caring capacity.”

Canada’s second annual three-day celebration of arts and culture runs from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 and will include a variety of activities in and around Guelph. MSAC will host a number of special events Saturday, Oct. 1.

10 a.m. The public is invited to contribute to a tapestry reflecting the spirit of Guelph and its residents. Donate fabric, postcards, letters, posters and other flat personal items to be sewn into the tapestry throughout the day.

2-3 p.m. Guelph residents can join in the “Human Quilt” project to create Guelph’s first community portrait. Bring an item representing your role in the community for a group photograph to be taken by Dean Palmer, one of Guelph’s best-known portrait photographers. All participants will receive a digital copy of the portrait.

7 p.m. Reinstallation of the Begging Bear followed by the opening reception for MSAC’s fall exhibitions.

“This year’s events at MSAC are special because they have a great community focus and interactive component,” Ware said. “It’s exciting to be part of the creative process. Rather than just viewing art, people can get involved in making art and tangibly interact with culture, while building relationships with artists, organizations, family and community.”

Other MSAC events will include a lantern tour of the Sculpture Park and grounds from 10 p.m.

Last year, Guelph joined about 700 communities across the country in the inaugural Culture Days event.

“It’s important to appreciate arts and culture in our everyday lives,” Ware said. “The annual Culture Days celebration helps us to value creativity and to foster a caring environment for our city. I love to organize events for the public that I think people will really enjoy and which will make a difference, creating great memories.”

Sportsnet magazine debuts with massive NHL preview: Expert forecasts, breakout players—and who will win the cup

2011-09-29T16:16:00.003-04:00

Canada's first national bi-weekly sports magazine hits newsstands and iPad today, bringing to life the stories that matter most to Canadian fans

TORONTO, September 29, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - As a country, we are often defined by our passion for sports. But there hasn't been a national magazine to reflect our uniquely Canadian relationship to the sports we love. Until today.

Canada's first and only national bi-weekly sports magazine, Sportsnet, tells the stories that reflect the passions of millions of Canadians—the ones who cram into arenas and stadiums across the country, and who make sure they're home in time to watch the big game.

"Canadians told us they want a sports magazine that reflects our stories, our icons and our heroes," says Sportsnet editor-in-chief Steve Maich. "They told us they want photography that will make them stop and stare, stories that will make them pause and think. That's what we're committed to delivering, starting today, for 26 issues a year."

The launch of Sportsnet magazine brings the number of Sportsnet brand platforms to five: television, radio, digital, mobile and now print. The debut issue is also part of a change of direction for the entire Sportsnet family—a new look and a renewed focus on what fuels the Canadian fan.

Through the printed word and compelling visuals, Sportsnet aims to become Canada's leading source of in-depth perspective, insider reports, and exclusive insight on the world of sports, including hockey, baseball, football, soccer and other professional and premium amateur sports.

Fittingly, the inaugural issue targets the icons most near and dear to the collective hearts of Canadians: hockey players. The cover story by Gare Joyce focuses on the future of Sidney Crosby; Inside, a 35-page National Hockey League section previews the 2011-12 season; an investigative piece looks at the story behind the sudden and tragic death of NHL enforcer Derek Boogaard; and a feature story written by Sportsnet.ca senior columnist Mark Spector takes readers inside the Canucks' dressing room after the crushing Game 7 loss to the Boston Bruins last spring.

Every issue of Sportsnet will include:

...Gallery - Multi-page spreads of the most amazing images captured on the field of play

...Uncompromising Views — Bob McCown answers letters and questions from our readers. Jim Lang and Greg Brady debate the hottest topics in sports. Scott Feschuk examines the absurdities of our pro sports culture. Stephen Brunt gives us his "final say" on the back page

...Pre-Game - A guide to the biggest games and most intriguing match-ups of the next two weeks in sports

...The Show - A bite-size deconstruction of the past two weeks in sports

...Road Trip - A travelers' guide to the greatest road trips you've always dreamed of taking. Where to eat, where to stay, and how to get tickets to the game

...The Fan - A profile of a fan of special devotion, from among the people who make pro sports work, the people in the stands

...Science of Sport - An examination of the physics, biology and biomechanics that make amazing plays possible

...Game Changer - Profiles of the innovators who changed the way the game is played

...The Life - A view of all the sports action that happens away from the field

The inaugural issue also includes a Major League Baseball post-season preview by baseball insider Shi Davidi and an exclusive sit-down with Canadian basketball phenom Tristan Thompson, written by Michael Grange.

Sportsnet magazine launches with a circulation of 100,000. To subscribe to the print or iPad versions, visit www.sportsnet.ca/magazine

About Sportsnet magazine

Sportsnet magazine is Canada's only bi-weekly sports magazine. It is Canada's leading source for in-depth perspective and inside reports on hockey, baseball, football, soccer and other professional sports and premier amateur sports. Sportsnet magazine is part of the multiplatform Sportsnet brand, which exists on five platforms: television, radio, digital, mobile and print. It is published 26 times a year by Rogers Publishing Limited, a division of Rogers Media Inc.

TD Friends of the Environment Foundation celebrates planting many 'great ones'

2011-09-23T08:59:00.003-04:00

"Wayne Gretzky joins TD volunteers for a TD Tree Days planting event in Stanley Park, Vancouver, B.C. (CNW Group/TD Friends of the Environment Foundation)"

28,000 trees planted during TD Tree Days events across Canada

TORONTO, September 22, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - 5,000 volunteers. 85 events. 8 days. Added up, the result is 28,000 trees planted during the second annual TD Tree Days. This year TD Bank Group employees, their family and friends, community partners and even the Great One himself - Wayne Gretzky - joined together to enhance urban and rural forests across the country through tree-plantings hosted by TD Friends of the Environment Foundation.

TD Tree Days were held during September 2011 in Canada, and will debut in the United States and the United Kingdom with events slated for October 2011. Special events in Canada included plantings on September 21st to celebrate Canada's inaugural National Tree Day and a planting today in Vancouver with Wayne Gretzky.

"We are thrilled to have so many passionate volunteers join the Great One, Wayne Gretzky, to plant the roots of forest stewardship in communities across Canada, as well as in the U.S. and U.K.," said Mary Desjardins, Executive Director, TD Friends of the Environment Foundation. "Trees provide important economic, recreational and ecological benefits to cities, from removing carbon dioxide to buffering noise. What better way to celebrate the Year of the Forest and Canada's First National Tree Day than by recognizing the important role trees play in our environment?"

Highlights of TD Tree Days events across Canada:

...Red Deer, Alberta - A small army of volunteers in Red Deer planted 254 trees at Kerry Wood Nature Centre, planting more than double the originally planned 125 trees.

...Gatineau, Quebec - Volunteers of all ages, including a one-year old volunteer in-training, added 125 trees to the local forest canopy in Ouatouais/Gatineau.

...Etobicoke, Ontario - TD staff and their families planted 1,000 trees and shrubs at Centennial Park, which will help establish a forest on a formerly open area.

...Surrey, British Columbia - TD employees, their families and the Clover Ridge District Girl Guides gathered in Bear Creek Park to plant 280 trees. A mix of salmonberry, thimbleberry, red alder and western red cedar were planted to help control the growth of blackberries in the park, which are an invasive species in the area.

...Conception Bay South, Newfoundland & Labrador - With increased housing and development in the area, Manuels River Park was also experiencing an increase in groundwater runoff. Local volunteers planted 500 trees that will help to stabilize water runoff in the park.

TD FEF worked with partners including Tree Canada to ensure volunteers planted native species to help maximize their growing potential.

For more information visit www.tdtreedays.com

About TD Friends of the Environment Foundation:

Since 1990, TD FEF has provided more than $54 million in funding to approximately 20,000 grassroots environment and wildlife projects across Canada. In 2010, TD FEF provided more than $3.5 million in support of 970 projects. Thousands of donors give to TD FEF on a monthly basis and TD Bank Group contributes in excess of $1 million annually. TD also covers the management costs of running TD FEF, which guarantees 100% of every dollar donated goes directly to funding environment and wildlife projects in the community where the donation was made. For more information on how to donate and get involved in your community, visit www.tdfef.com.

Golf Digest and Norlinks Annnounce Golf Digest Canada

2011-09-22T09:49:00.002-04:00

Partnership to Provide Online Content for new Website, Mobile and Tablet Devices

NEW YORK, September 21, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Golf Digest has entered into a license agreement with Norlinks Digital Media for the online launch of Golf Digest Canada. As purely an online venture, Golf Digest Canada will be available on the web and on digital platforms including tablets in Canada and will offer content provided exclusively by the editors of Golf Digest and Golf World. Canada has the highest number of golfers per capita in the world and Golf Digest Canada aims to become the Number one online golf destination for Canadian golfers.

"We at Golf Digest are pleased to partner with Norlinks to provide online articles and photography from our talented staff," said Golf Digest Chairman and Editor-in-chief Jerry Tarde. "There is a strong appetite for golf content in Canada. And we're happy to share our news reports, equipment ratings, instruction tips and travel reporting."

Golf Digest Canada will feature content from Golf Digest and Golf World. It will also have ecommerce functionality and virtual gaming provided by the World Golf Tour.

"To be able to partner with the world's greatest golf publication is an honour for us here at Norlinks. Our goal over the year's will be to grow the viewer base with unique technology in our products and supplement the Golf Digest content with Canadian generated content. Our journalists will also add Canadian content to the iconic ratings from Golf Digest such as Top 100 Golf Courses and The Hot List. With digital technology gaining ground in ease of use and access I believe we have a fantastic opportunity to grow the game of golf in Canada" Stu MacDonald Chairman, Norlinks.

Launched at the RBC Canadian Open Men's Championship on July 21st Canadian golfers can look forward to the strongest editorial line-up in golf content on the web. Golf Digest's offerings range from equipment news to course rankings and travel advice to tips and insight from Golf Digest's great playing and teaching editors including: Phil Mickelson; Jack Nicklaus; Arnold Palmer; Rickie Fowler; Butch Harmon and Hank Haney.

Car Heaven rewards Canadians for thinking of the environment and recycling their older vehicles properly

2011-09-19T13:56:00.003-04:00

photo credit: chevyavalancheclub via Flickr

TORONTO, September 19, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Car Heaven is challenging Canadians to consider the age of their cars and the effects they have on the environment and their wallets. Summerhill Impact's national Car Heaven program is Canada's only end-of-life vehicle program, dedicated to rewarding and enabling car owners to get their 2003 and older, polluting vehicles permanently off the road. When Canadians send their old, higher polluting vehicles to Car Heaven and adopt a lower-impact transportation mix into their daily lives, they can make a huge impact by supporting a Canadian charity, reducing their impact on the environment, saving money, and supporting local green businesses.

"Most people don't realize that 2003 model year and older vehicles can produce up to 39 times more smog-forming pollutants than cars manufactured today," said Fatima Crerar, Summerhill Impact. "That's why we are encouraging Canadians to retire these cars early and permanently remove them from our roads by offering Car Heaven: a rewarding, free and convenient program to participate in."

The program benefits Canadians not just by protecting the environment; it also supports charities across the country. Canadians who participate will receive a suite of rewards that includes a charitable tax receipt from their selected Car Heaven charity partner, an alternative transportation incentive (where available), the guarantee that their vehicle will be recycled in an environmentally responsible manner, and a free tow (valued at up to $200).

Since its launch in 2000, Car Heaven and its program partners have retired more than 123,500 vehicles, resulting in a reduction of almost 5,000 tonnes of smog-forming emissions and generating more than $3,600,000 for its affiliated charities. Car Heaven is constantly adding rewards and incentives for Canadian participants and encourages all sustainable transportation providers - including transit authorities, bike retailers, car-share providers, and vehicle manufacturers and retailers - to join us in this initiative.

"Car Heaven is supporting green business growth in the Canadian economy and dedicated to using only auto recyclers who comply with the environmental process guidelines," said Steve Fletcher, Managing Director of the Automotive Recyclers of Canada (ARC) "Environment Canada and ARC developed the Canadian Automotive Recyclers' Environmental Code that all recyclers participating in the program must follow."

By sending vehicles to Car Heaven, Canadians will ensure their cars will be recycled responsibly through the Canadian Automotive Recyclers' Environmental Code, a process ensures that materials such as oil, gasoline, refrigerants, mercury switches and tires are removed from vehicles prior to scrappage. Recyclers that work with Car Heaven reuse and recycle over 80% of vehicles and ensure the remaining materials are responsibly disposed of. To learn more about the program visit www.carheaven.ca.

About Summerhill Impact

Summerhill Impact is a national not-for-profit environmental organization that has designed and delivered many of Canada's most successful public engagement programs. We strive to make better environmental choices easy for consumers, allowing them to contribute to a sustained, positive, and measurable impact on the environment.

About ARC

Formed in 1997 as an "association of associations", the Automotive Recyclers of Canada (ARC) is the national voice of the automotive recycling industry, providing a forum for the channeling of information and addressing Canada wide concerns.

Smartphones As "Digital Keys" Coming To Doors Near You

2011-09-17T09:56:00.001-04:00

Photo by Keith Williamson via Flickr CC

from TreeHugger.com
by Jaymi Heimbuch, San Francisco, California

The dematerialization continues, right down to our keys. The plastic ID badges that people hold up to readers at doorways to get into secure areas could soon be replaced by simply holding up your cell phone. Plastic keys could become so last decade.

Forbes reports, " HID Global, a California-based division of Sweden's Assa Abloy, is testing software that acts as a digital key when loaded onto a smartphone. The software, which interacts with physical ID card readers via an application or by swiping it near a reader, could eventually replace the plastic badges that millions of people worldwide use to securely enter their offices and other facilities."

Starting out at college campuses, the company tested the technology at Arizona State University. Instead of using campus ID cards, students can use cell phones. After a month-long test run, feedback from students is apparently "pretty positive."

It could signal yet another way smart phones are helping us dematerialize. From allowing us to replace a pile of various gadgets from radios to calculators to cameras, replacing paper copies of receipts and documents with digital versions, even allowing us to pay for items via cell phone instead of with paper money or credit cards, smart phones are helping us minimize materials we cart around with us. Replacing yet more plastic could be the next wave.

However, it could be a little while. Forbes reports, "The pace of adoption depends, in part, on the maturation of Near Field Communication (NFC). HID's digital key software uses this short-range wireless technology to talk to hardware readers. Though NFC is attracting attention from handset makers, wireless operators and payment processors, it is still hard to find in most U.S. buildings and cellphones. Before rolling out digital keys, ASU needs to wait until clear NFC standards are set."

Even so, the company feels that this technology is perfect for hotels, offices, even homes, with access allowed or revoked with a quick signal sent to the particular cell phone.

Check out TreeHugger for 30+ fresh, green stories every day!

Headwaters Golf Trail

2011-09-15T09:33:00.003-04:00

September 15, 2011 - from the Hills of Headwaters newsletter

The Headwaters Golf Trail, one of Ontario’s first premier golf trails, offers golfers the chance to play 5 very unique golf properties, all nestled within the rolling hills and valleys of the Hills of Headwaters Tourism region, and just steps outside Toronto’s back door.

The five stellar properties that make up the Headwaters Golf Trail are:

Caledon Country Club
Glen Eagle Golf Club
Hockley Valley Resort
Shelburne Golf & Country Club
Woodington Lake Golf Club

FREE GOLF -- BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!
Passport to Great Golf: The Headwaters Golf Trail

While many golfers drive to the region to play one course at a time, the Headwaters Golf Trail gives golfers a compelling reason to come back again and again during the course of the season: play each course once during the 2011 golf season, and once you've played them all, we'll invite you to come back to play each course again - FOR FREE!

Simply pick up your Passport at any participating Golf Trail course, have your Passport validated after paying for your green fee, and once you've had your Passport validated at all five courses, you'll receive your next five rounds (one at each Trail course) for free!

Golf in the Hills of Headwaters - it doesn't get much better than this - unless you get to play again for FREE - and you can with the Headwaters Golf Trail!

Pick up your free Headwaters Golf Trail Passport now at any participating course and hit the links!
( Headwaters Golf Trail Passport Rules and Regulations)

Canadian Government and Nature Conservancy of Canada conserve valuable habitat in Northern Bruce Peninsula, Ontario

2011-09-14T11:09:00.003-04:00

photo credit: Yi Lou via Flickr

OWEN SOUND, Ontario, September 13, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Larry Miller, Member of Parliament for Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound, on behalf of Canada's Minister of the Environment, the Honourable Peter Kent, announced yesterday the Nature Conservancy of Canada's successful acquisition of the McClennan property - 220 hectares of land in the Township of Northern Bruce Peninsula, Ontario. This project was secured in part with funding from Environment Canada's Natural Areas Conservation Program.

"This acquisition marks another achievement under our government's Natural Areas Conservation Program. With this investment, we are taking real action to protect and conserve our ecosystems and sensitive species for present and future generations," said Minister Kent. "Your actions today will help to protect the abundance and variety of life that will constitute an integral part of our natural heritage tomorrow."

The Northern Bruce Peninsula Natural Area is the second highest ranking area in the Great Lakes Eco-region of Ontario for global biodiversity values. It is home to many rare vegetation communities and several significant ecological systems such as alvars, wetlands, and limestone plain forests.

"This piece of property will be a great compliment to the Bruce Peninsula's national park," commented MP Miller. "This will help to preserve the area for all of us to enjoy for years to come."

The McClennan property contains wetland, forest and shoreline habitats, and supports at-risk and globally rare species such as Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake and Hill's Thistle. The property is adjacent to Gauley Bay where large aggregations of waterfowl, such as Common Goldeneye, Lesser Scaup, and Ring-necked Duck, are common during migration.

"This project on the Northern Bruce Peninsula is the result of incredible partnerships with public and private partners, as well as passionate individuals," said Chris Maher, Ontario Regional Vice President for the Nature Conservancy of Canada. "Together we are building an incredible conservation legacy that our grandchildren will surely thank us for."

The Government of Canada's $225-million Natural Areas Conservation Program is an important on-the-ground initiative that takes real action to preserve Canada's environment and conserve its precious natural heritage for present and future generations. It is through the ongoing contribution from all donors that we can ensure the protection of natural areas in Canada. As of March 2011, the Natural Areas Conservation Program has protected 160,796 hectares, almost three times the size of Quebec City, which includes habitat for 101 species at risk.

For more information on this announcement, please visit the Web site of Environment Canada at http://www.ec.gc.ca/.

A less invasive hip replacement surgery available in Canada

2011-09-10T11:13:00.004-04:00

MONTREAL, September 8, 2011 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - A new cutting edge hip-surgery technique is being offered in Montreal by Dr. Benoit Benoit, orthopaedic surgeon. The new procedure, Anterior Minimally Invasive Surgery (AMIS), is a progressive and major breakthrough, as it doesn't cut through any muscles - an essential factor for fast recovery.

Patients undergoing the surgery can possibly benefit from significantly reduced time spent in hospital, decreased post-operative pain, less blood loss, reduced risk of dislocation, a faster return to daily activities and a vast overall improvement to their quality of life.

The procedure uses the same hip replacement components as conventional procedures, but with an anterior approach that allows the hip replacement components to be placed safely through a single incision without disconnecting any muscle from bone or interfering with any nerve connections. While the anterior approach is not new, developments in the instrumentation used in the procedure means the operation is less demanding than previously, which is why it is gaining in popularity.

Although the technic is new in Canada, there have been more than 50,000 AMIS cases done worldwide.

Dr. Benoit has learned the AMIS technic in Switzerland, France and Ottawa, during fellowships programs.

Organic Hockey Diet Scores Big Goals

2011-08-31T09:42:00.002-04:00

Photo: creativecommon/flickr/dustin hall

from TreeHugger.com
by Bonnie Alter, London

He shoots, he scores! Eat like an organic hockey player and you too may hit the major leagues.

NHL hockey players are going on serious organic-only diets which include quinoa, goji berries, organic steak and wild salmon. What, no beer? The results: look better, feel better and most importantly: score better.

You may not have heard of him but Gary Roberts is hockey's diet guru. According to Canada's national newspaper, fifteen years ago his career as a player was kaput. Then he re-invented himself through super healthy eating and now he is advising 42 pro-level players on what can and cannot go into their mouth. He is a firm believer in eating organic and whole foods and won't touch anything with a "non-fat" label or any product with more than a half-dozen ingredients

His secret to a super star career: nutrition first, then body maintenance (that includes yoga) and finally, training.

Gone are the Harvey's hamburgers, all sugar, wheat, soya and all processed foods. Instead players are eating full-fat yogurt, pressed cottage cheese, goat's milk (3.5% MF), organic cream cheese, raw or cured parmigiano, organic steak, natural sausage, organic chicken, wild-caught canned tuna, wild salmon, kale, baby greens (Asian mix, root mix, mache), sprouts (sunflower, pea, arugula), avocado, chickpeas, mung beans, lentils, quinoa, brown rice, brown-rice pasta, salba, chia, hemp, sunflower seeds, brazil nuts, walnuts, almonds, coconut and extra-virgin olive oil (and coconut oil. )

Not every one is a believer. Another trainer says that "he's on another planet with this stuff." But the players, both major league and junior league, are hooked: they are adding muscle and nutrition to their game.

If you want to try some of his recipes, they are simple to make and healthy sounding.

Check out TreeHugger for 30+ fresh, green stories every day!

Neon Bicycles Pop Up in Toronto and Defy the Mayor

2011-08-25T13:53:00.001-04:00

Photo: good

from TreeHugger.com
by Bonnie Alter, London

You can fight City Hall, sometimes. In this lovely little story, a Toronto woman decided to paint and spruce up an old bicycle that had been locked to a pole and abandoned for ages.

In an act of civic disobedience, she painted it neon red and planted the basket. Result: a parking ticket saying it had to be removed or destroyed. But brave citizens revolted and campaigned and protested...and out of that grew The Good Bike Project.

Now, not only has the ticket been withdrawn, but the artists and a local councillor have started "The Good Bike Project" that will take the idea across the city.

Instead of a parking ticket, it has become a ticket to see dozens of locations decorated with dozens of variations of the bike.

It has become a community project and a discussion about street art, bicycles and public art in Toronto. The City has hundreds of abandoned bikes and these are being made available for painting and decorating. The Mayor has begrudgingly said "it certainly will be exciting when these bikes appear around Toronto this summer." However the artists want to make it clear that he did not commission or donate City funds to the project.

Soon the bikes will be popping up all over, with the help of young artists that are transforming them. In order to make it more local and relevant, each bike will mark a site that promotes "the ethos of regeneration and community that sparked our creativity in the first place."

So there is a pink and blue one in front of a community centre, a green one where there used to be bicycle lanes, a blue one at the subway and on it goes.

The two artists are delighted and see it as an outcry by the public against the forces of conservatism in the city: "The positive reaction that the bike has received is certainly evidence of the thirst for public art in Toronto."

... read more story at TreeHugger.com

Three Rescued from Small Vessel

2011-08-14T09:54:00.002-04:00

CCG Vessel Isle Rouge

TOBERMORY, Ontario, August 13, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - On Thursday August 11, 2011, The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Marine Security Enforcement Team (MSET) and the Sarnia Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET) rescued three occupants from a capsized boat near Flowerpot Island, Tobermory, Ontario.

At approximately 2:45pm the Sarnia RCMP vessel and police officers participating in a Joint Marine Enforcement campaign in the area were alerted by the operator of a local tour boat, about a dangerously overloaded boat. The RCMP encountered the small boat shortly after the boat set out on the waters. The RCMP vessel approached the boat and the officers observed that the three occupants were not wearing life jackets and the boat was overloaded with personal items. Waves at the time ranged from two to four feet in height. The small boat began to take on water from the stern. Direction was given to the boat operator to return to calmer waters.

Once in calmer waters the RCMP vessel approached the boat. The small boat continued to take on water and quickly capsized. One occupant was able to board the RCMP vessel before the boat capsized. The other two occupants were quickly recovered from the water. No injuries were sustained and the occupants were transferred to the Canadian Coast Guard Vessel, the Isle Rouge, to dry off and warm up. The victims and their belongings were transported safely back to Tobermory. The boat was later salvaged by the owners.

The RCMP would like to remind boaters to wear life jackets aboard a boat at all times, to remain within the watercraft's carry capacity and to be aware of the lake conditions before setting out on the water.

The Marine Security Enforcement Team's (MSETs) are operating on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway to further enhance National Security. MSET teams are also working side-by-side with the RCMP's Integrated Border Enforcement Teams (IBETs).

KFC Colonel Chimes in on Sign-Stealing Baseball Controversy

2011-08-13T10:52:00.002-04:00

"KFC Colonel - chimed in on the recent "sign stealing" baseball controversy at an August 12th game in Toronto. As rumours circulated about an alleged "man in a white suit" stealing signs in Toronto, KFC Colonel surprised fans with a tongue-in-cheek sign of his own: "I'm too chicken to steal signs." (CNW Group/KFC Canada)"

TORONTO, August 12, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The original and world's most famous man in a white suit - KFC Colonel - chimed in on the recent "sign stealing" baseball controversy at an August 12th game in Toronto.

As rumours circulated about an alleged "man in a white suit" stealing signs in Toronto, KFC Colonel surprised baseball fans with a tongue-in-cheek sign of his own reading: "I'm too chicken to steal signs." [see photo]

About KFC Canada

KFC is Canada's largest quick service restaurant brand with more than 700 KFC restaurants across Canada. Since it was founded in Canada in the early 50s, KFC cooks have been freshly preparing and hand-breading our famed, irresistible Original Recipe chicken every day. KFC uses only trans fat free cooking oils - and offers a delicious range of family meals and premium sandwiches.

To learn more about KFC Canada, visit their website KFC.ca - or join their community on facebook at www.facebook.com/KFCCanada.

Lee Valley Tools Ltd. To Open 15th Store in Waterloo, Ontario

2011-08-10T09:22:00.002-04:00

OTTAWA, Aug. 9, 2011 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - Lee Valley Tools Ltd., a Canadian retailer of high-quality woodworking and gardening hand tools and cabinet hardware, is pleased to announce that its newest retail store is set to open in Waterloo, Ontario, on Tuesday, August 16, 2011.

Located at 620 Davenport Road, Waterloo, the store's showroom will display all of the current woodworking and gardening hand tools, as well as the extensive selection of cabinet hardware available in the Lee Valley catalogs and on its website.

Lee Valley Tools Ltd. is a family-owned business, founded by Leonard Lee in Ottawa, Ontario, in 1978. Customers can shop at any of the 15 retail stores across Canada (Halifax, Ottawa, three in Toronto, Burlington, London, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Calgary, Coquitlam, Vancouver, Victoria, and Waterloo), as well as online at www.leevalley.com.

Mountain Equipment Co-op turns 40

2011-08-05T08:50:00.003-04:00

photo credit: Wikipedia.org

MEC grows from 6 to 3.5 million members; embodies 'active outdoor lifestyles'

VANCOUVER, August 2, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Forty years ago today Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) officially opened for business, when it incorporated in British Columbia as a retail co-operative. Membership in MEC was open to anyone and you could join by buying a $5 share in the enterprise. Mountains, climbing and gear for it were at the heart of the deal.

The business began with six founding members who were active in BC's early outdoor scene, a tiny store in downtown Vancouver and gear focused on climbing. Since then, MEC has grown to more than 3.5 million members, fourteen destination stores in six provinces, www.mec.ca, some 1,500 employees and a product offering that continues to grow and evolve in step with active outdoor lifestyles in Canada.

"MEC was founded by a small group of climbers who possessed an entrepreneurial spirit, a keen sense of adventure and a deep love for the outdoors," said CEO David Labistour. "These qualities live on at MEC today, helping guide our service to members, the quality and value-laden products we aim to provide and our desire to serve today and tomorrow's generation of active Canadians."

Providing members clothing and gear for backcountry excursions to wilderness destinations shaped MEC's early product offering. Demographic changes within Canada and the trend toward 'front-country' recreation (close to home for short time periods) has led to the evolution of what is now MEC's expansive outdoor product offering.

Like mountain biking and white-water kayaking before them, trail running and stand-up paddle boarding are two relatively new activities rising in popularity that MEC supports as outdoor recreation evolves.

Stores in Vancouver and Calgary and a relatively small membership mainly within Canada's two western-most provinces largely defined MEC's growth in its 15 years in business. That changed in 1986, when the outdoor retailer opened a store in Toronto. Now Ontario has four MEC stores and over half of the co-op's total membership resides east of the Manitoba-Ontario border.

Supporting Canada's outdoor community and well established sustainability programs are integral to MEC organizational culture. Since 1987, MEC has contributed over $19 million in community grants toward outdoor recreation and environmental conservation projects across the country. MEC's sustainability efforts include formal programs in the areas of product sustainability, green building and ethical sourcing.

The cost to join MEC remains unchanged - a $5 share provides an individual lifetime membership. Membership is open to anyone.

Government of Canada invests in airport safety at the Region of Waterloo International Airport

2011-08-04T08:57:00.004-04:00

photo credit: FlyYKF - via Flickr

WATERLOO, Ontario, August 3, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, announced today that the Government of Canada is investing more than $3.2 million in improvements to the Region of Waterloo International Airport. Under the Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP), the money will be used to partially rehabilitate the pavement on Runway 08-26.

"The Government of Canada is committed to the safety and security of all Canadians," said Minister Lebel. "We recognize that efficient and safe airports are vital to the local economies of smaller communities, which is why we are investing in safety improvement projects at regional and local airports across the country."

This year, the Government of Canada is investing more than $20.9 million for 27 projects at 23 airports. Improvements include replacing snowblowers and runway sweepers; purchasing runway de-icing and fire-fighting equipment; and rehabilitating runway pavements.

"The Region of Waterloo is committed to high standards for the Region of Waterloo International Airport," said Ken Seiling, regional chair. "The ACAP funding from the Government of Canada for the partial rehabilitation of Runway 08-26 is greatly appreciated and supports our culture of safety at the airport."

"Waterloo International Airport, or YKF as my luggage is tagged, plays a vital role in our local economy," said Harold Albrecht, Member of Parliament for Kitchener-Conestoga. "These runway improvements are vital to continuing safe, predictable flights at the Region of Waterloo International Airport. Our government is committed to supporting smaller regional airports across Canada and the businesses that have come to rely heavily on them."

To date, through ACAP, the Government of Canada has invested a total of $556 million for 678 projects at 171 airports, including today's announcement. Over 99 per cent of these projects were airside safety-related projects such as runways, taxiways and visual aids, as well as heavy airside mobile equipment such as fire trucks and snowplows.

Red Cross accepting donations through text messages

2011-07-29T09:46:00.002-04:00

OTTAWA, July 28, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Red Cross is pleased to announce that Canadians are now able to support emergency relief operations in the Horn of Africa via text messaging. Donors interested in this option must simply text AFRICA to 30333 and a one-time donation of $5 for the Horn of Africa Drought fund will be added to their mobile phone bill.

The charge will be posted once the donor responds to a confirmation text. Text messaging donations are available in $5 increments*.

"We are pleased to announce this new donation option," says Conrad Sauvé, secretary general and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross. "It is a quick and easy way to make an impact on the lives of communities across the Horn of Africa."

The Government of Canada will match the donations of individual Canadians between July 6 and September 16, 2011. Those funds will go into a relief fund that is separate from the Canadian Red Cross and will be administered by the Government of Canada. Funds from the matching program will support on-going humanitarian assistance in drought-affected parts of East Africa.

*Standard messaging rates and additional fees may apply to donation texts. All charges are billed by and payable to the mobile service provider. The service is available on most carriers. Donations are collected for the benefit of the Canadian Red Cross by the Mobile Giving Foundation and subject to the terms found at www.mobilegiving.ca/. Donors can unsubscribe at any time by texting STOP to 30333.

The Canadian Red Cross is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and over 185 national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The Canadian Red Cross mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.

New website aids 1.2 million Canadians living with fibromyalgia

2011-07-26T08:40:00.003-04:00

"Kathy Zador, lives with fibromyalgia (CNW Group/Fibrocentre.ca)".

Fibrocentre.ca first resource of its kind

TORONTO, July 25, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - A new website that brings together information about fibromyalgia, a community of experts and people living with fibromyalgia is the first comprehensive resource of reliable, up-to-date knowledge, research and data about the condition developed specifically for Canadians.

Fibrocentre.ca will give Canadians living with, or who suspect they have fibromyalgia, as well as their families and friends, a central place where they can gather information on the condition and treatment options, seek advice from experts on managing their pain, interact with others living with fibromyalgia or find ways to better describe their symptoms to their doctor.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic widespread pain condition affecting an estimated 1.2 million Canadians of all ages, cultures and both sexes. Most commonly described as widespread muscle pain that lasts longer than three months and makes everyday activities difficult, the condition actually has a broad range of complex and diverse symptoms. These include persistent soreness and flu-like aches, tender points, stiffness, sleep difficulties, tiredness and general fatigue.

"It can sometimes take a long time for a person to get a diagnosis of fibromyalgia because the symptoms often mimic other conditions," said Steven McNair, president and CEO of The Arthritis Society. "Canadians living with fibromyalgia need access to a variety of tools and resources, tips and advice that will make researching and finding treatment options much easier."

"I'd say the most important first step in obtaining a diagnosis is that people living with fibromyalgia need to take the time to prepare before their doctors appointment so that they can talk to their doctor knowledgeably about their symptoms," added McNair.

Fibrocentre.ca features information on what is and who suffers from fibromyalgia, the symptoms and causes, and treatment options including complementary therapies. Resources include informative videos from patients and health care professionals, a list of doctors that accept new fibromyalgia patients, contact information for Canadian associations and the latest research on the causes and treatments for chronic pain and fibromyalgia.

There is also a way to raise funds in support of fibromyalgia patients. Visitors whose lives have been affected by fibromyalgia in some way, shape or form simply add themselves to a support map of Canada and Fibrocentre.ca will donate $5 to The Arthritis Society to help support awareness programs useful for those living with fibromyalgia. Then they can also let others know about the importance of supporting this cause using Twitter, Facebook or email.

It can take time and persistence to identify and diagnose fibromyalgia. Many doctors have little experience with fibromyalgia and so a patient may have to see GPs and many specialists before they are diagnosed.

"Reaching a diagnosis is more likely to be successful if you educate yourself about fibromyalgia and what you can do to help to manage your symptoms," said Dr. Roger Shick, Physician Operations Leader of the St. Paul's Hospital Pain Centre in Vancouver. "The more you know, the more involved you'll be in your treatment and the easier it will be to develop a treatment plan that works best for you."

Fibrocentre.ca has been developed by one of Canada's leading research-based pharmaceutical companies and was founded on the belief that it is essential to break the stigma attached to fibromyalgia and help increase awareness of the very real symptoms and impact of this condition on someone's life.

Decline in crime rate thanks to hard work by Canada's front line police

2011-07-21T16:48:00.002-04:00

OTTAWA, July 21, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Today's Statistics Canada report that shows the crime rate across the country has hit its lowest level since 1973 is a testament to the hard work and dedication in the pursuit of community safety from Canada's police personnel, said Canadian Police Association President Tom Stamatakis today.

"Obviously there are a number of factors at play here, but this report provides solid evidence that investments in front-line policing are paying off," said Mr. Stamatakis. "We need to continue to build on these achievements by our members."

According to the report, Canadian police services reported nearly 2.1 million Criminal Code incidents (excluding traffic) last year, about 77,000 fewer than in 2009. Further, four property crimes accounted for the majority of the decline: theft under $5,000, mischief, motor vehicle thefts and break-ins.

"Unfortunately, what we often see in these circumstances are people who use these successes as a justification to take police off the streets, or make cutbacks that affect our operational capabilities," said Mr. Stamatakis. "That kind of faulty logic will only jeopardize the increases in community safety that we've managed to make so far."

"Absolutely no one celebrates seeing less crime in Canada than our police men and women, but until the crime numbers get down to zero, we're not going to stop being tough on crime, nor are we going to stop advocating for the tougher laws and penalties that help us do our jobs."

The Canadian Police Association (CPA) is the national voice for 41,000 police personnel across Canada. Membership includes police personnel serving in 160 police services across Canada, from Canada's smallest towns and villages as well as those working in our largest municipal and provincial police services, and members of the RCMP, railway police, and first nations' police personnel.

Fox Harb'r Golf Resort & Spa earns prestigous 2011 CAA/AAA Four Diamond Award

2011-07-20T10:13:00.001-04:00

Photo Credit: CanadianGolfer.com

HALIFAX, July 19, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The much-anticipated Canadian Automobile Association/American Automobile Association Four Diamond Award list was recently released, and Fox Harb'r Golf Resort & Spa is one of only five Atlantic Canada hotels or resorts to have received the highly esteemed Four Diamond Award for 2011. For the third year running, this recognition helps place the Resort on the world map as a must-see Atlantic Canadian resort destination.

"Fox Harb'r Golf Resort & Spa" sets a new standard for Atlantic Canada resort accommodations," says James Miller, General Manager of the Nova Scotia seaside resort. "Our employees are very committed and every day they create incredible experiences for our guests. It's their unwavering attention to detail and ongoing commitment to service that has allowed us to earn this prestigious award again this year."

Representing the upper echelon of the hospitality industry, CAA/AAA Four Diamond Award winners make up just 4 per cent of the more than 58,000 rated lodgings and restaurants throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

"Four Diamond establishments reflect the upper echelon of what the hospitality industry has to offer" says Gary Howard, Vice President of Marketing & Communications for CAA in Atlantic Canada. "To achieve and maintain this level of service is a commendable accomplishment and CAA/AAA is pleased to honour Fox Harb'r Golf Resort & Spa with this award" said Howard

Since its opening in 2000, Fox Harb'r Golf Resort & Spa has offered Award-winning dining in The Great Room restaurant, The Willard for casual dining, the Luxurious Spa at Fox Harb'r, 18 holes of Championship Golf Course, Par 3 Golf Course, Skeet & Sport Shooting facility, Private Jetport, Deep Sea Marina, and luxurious private Homes & Town Homes which have made the resort one of North America's most celebrated Seaside retreats. www.foxharbr.com

Suppression of Ambrosia (ragweed) on a large scale - The fight continues

2011-07-20T09:28:00.001-04:00

MONTREAL, July 19, 2011 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - Anxious to put a term to the respiratory allergies which affect more than 10% of the population, many municipalities and the Quebec ministry of transportation succeeded. Thanks to a devised intervention set up by the company Herbanatur Inc., to help suppress this highly toxic plant on their whole territory. Indeed, using a product 100% natural (Adios Ambros) which kills the plant without affecting the other plants. The municipalities and the Quebec ministry of transportation significantly reduced the level of pollen produced by Ambrosia. The strategy of the units of intervention deployed by HerbaNatur from mid-July to mid-September was to cover the sectors at risk like the roads and cycle tracks, the parks and play-grounds and the vacant lots potentially infested. The results of the Aérobiology reports show without a doubt, a reduction of the level of pollen, under the threshold of allergy in all the cities which were treated and sampled.

Supported by the Lung Association of Quebec www.pq.lung.ca, HerbaNatur Inc. was given the mission of eliminating this undesirable plant on a provincial scale in order to improve the quality of life of the people who suffer from respiratory problems.

Visit the Herbanatur web site: www.herbanatur.ca

Travel tips on crossing the Canadian border upon returning from vacation this summer

2011-07-19T11:06:00.002-04:00

MONTREAL, July 19, 2011 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - The summer holiday season is upon us, and many Canadians will likely be travelling abroad over the coming weeks. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is making every effort to minimize border wait times during this peak period; travellers can facilitate their re-entry into Canada by keeping the following five tips in mind.

1. Plan ahead to avoid delays at the Canada-U.S. land border. The CBSA suggests that you avoid travelling during peak periods such as afternoons and weekends, and use the Internet to keep track of wait times. You can consult border wait times on the CBSA Web site at www.cbsa.gc.ca, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/CBSA_BWT, or on your cell phone at wap.gc.ca or www.gc.ca.

2. Bring appropriate identification for yourself and for all children travelling with you, regardless of their age. CBSA officers watch closely for missing children and may ask you detailed questions about the children you are travelling with. If you have or share legal custody of the children, have copies of the relevant legal documents, such as custody rights, on hand.

3. Declare all merchandise you have bought and have all your receipts on hand. Officers may ask you to show receipts for the goods you have purchased and your hotel receipts to verify the length of your stay outside Canada. Keep all of your receipts together and on hand to avoid unnecessary delays.

4. Be aware of your personal exemptions. Depending on the length of your stay abroad, you may be entitled to certain personal exemptions.

AFTER BEING AWAY FOR...YOU CAN BRING BACK GOODS, TAX- AND DUTY-FREE, WORTH UP TO...

24 hours or more CAN$50

48 hours or more CAN$400

7 days or more CAN$750

Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products may be included in your 48-hour or seven-day exemption, provided you are of legal age. Certain restrictions apply.

5. Know before you go. Certain goods are prohibited or restricted from entering Canada (weapons, certain plant and animal products, etc.). You can find out more about this by consulting the I Declare brochure, available at www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/pub/bsf5056-eng.html.

Finally, use your NEXUS card and save time at marine, land and air ports of entry when entering Canada or the United States. Visit www.nexus.gc.ca for more information or to apply for a membership.

For more information, visit the CBSA Web site at www.cbsa.gc.ca or contact the Border Information Service at 1-800-959-2036.

Microsoft chooses Toronto for 2012 Worldwide Partner Conference

2011-07-15T10:38:00.002-04:00

photo credit: Ken Russell
15,000 people from 130 countries expected for prestigious conference in Toronto

TORONTO, July 13, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - One of the world's most prestigious and advanced conferences will come to Toronto next July as Microsoft Corporation announced today that its Worldwide Partner Conference will meet in Toronto in 2012.

More than 15,000 people are expected to attend the Toronto conference, representing technology companies in 130 countries. While the main hubs of the action will be the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and the Air Canada Centre, many other venues will be involved as 500+ events take place during the conference and at least 32 hotels across the Toronto region will host delegates.

"Winning a prestigious meeting, for such a widely admired company, is not only a boost to the local economy but a testament to Toronto's ability to host major events," said David Whitaker, President and CEO of Tourism Toronto, which submitted the winning bid along with provincial and local partners.

"Microsoft Corporation's annual Worldwide Partner Conference attracts more than 15,000 delegates," said Eric Gales, General Manager, Microsoft Canada. "The four-day event celebrates the accomplishments of the company's 640,000 global technology partners. Microsoft Canada is thrilled that next year's event will be hosted in the city of Toronto and excited by the opportunity for the city to showcase its diverse culture, entertainment, and world-renowned hospitality."

From July 9 through 13, 2012, Worldwide Partner Conference is a must-attend conference for the technology industry that attracts delegates, vendors and suppliers from around the world. It is an opportunity to showcase Toronto as a destination as well as Toronto and Ontario's innovative information technology businesses.

"Our government is thrilled that Toronto has been chosen to host next year's Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference and we're proud of our support to help bring it here," said Laura Albanese, MPP York South-Weston. "This is a major win for the GTA and Ontario - it will put us front and centre on the world map, while boosting support for jobs, the economy and increased tourism."

Tourism Toronto has committed to create a scholarship program to assist international students participating in the 2012 conference, with more details on this initiative to be shared in the coming months. Tourism Toronto will also provide opportunities for students in Ontario's tourism and hospitality programs to gain valuable experience in event management through a marquee international conference.

"We are confident this will prove to be the most inspiring and technically advanced Worldwide Partner Conference ever for Microsoft, and will highlight our ability to come together as a tourism community to host large and sophisticated global corporate events," said Mr. Whitaker.

Meetings in Toronto

The meeting and convention industry is a lucrative and competitive one that is a vital part of the tourism economy in the Toronto Region. Conventions generate spending on a range of services and businesses including meeting facilities, hotels, restaurants, retail, attractions and taxis. In 2010, meetings and conventions injected $495 million into the local economy. Overall, there are 224,000 people employed in tourism and hospitality in the Toronto region.

Toronto has been building a reputation among meeting planners as a desirable place to hold important meetings and was ranked #1 out of 46 North American cities in several key categories in the most recent survey of meeting planners by Watkins Research. This year some of the top global meetings will take place in Toronto:

American Bar Association - August 2011 (20,000 attendees)
SWIFT/SIBOS (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications) - September 2011 (7,000 attendees)
U.S. Green Building Council - October 2011 (25,000 attendees)

About Tourism Toronto

Tourism Toronto, Toronto's Convention and Visitors Association, is an industry association of more than 1,200 members established to sell and market the greater Toronto region as a remarkable destination for tourists, convention delegates and business travellers around the globe. Tourism Toronto operates in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture as Regional Tourism Organization 5, representing the cities of Toronto, Mississauga and Brampton. For more information please visit www.seetorontonow.com.

Countdown to the Toronto 2015™ Pan/Parapan Am Games Kicks Off

2011-07-07T15:22:00.003-04:00

Four years until Canada's largest Games begin

TORONTO, July 7, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Sunday, July 10th marks the official four-year countdown to the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games—the largest international multi-sport competition ever hosted in Canada.

To mark the occasion, Mayor Rob Ford announced Councillor Mark Grimes (Ward 6, Etobicoke - Lakeshore) has been selected to lead the City of Toronto's participation in the Games as Chairman of the Mayor's Pan Am Games Secretariat.

"We are ready to roll up our sleeves and work with the City on delivering an event that will make us all proud," says Ian Troop, Chief Executive Officer, Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan Am Games Organizing Committee (TO2015™).

As the City's lead, Councillor Grimes will provide support and direction for an integrated public agenda for the Toronto 2015 Games that will help maximize economic development, tourism and local community opportunities for the city.

"I am very pleased to announce that Councillor Mark Grimes will be leading our team, welcoming thousands of expected visitors for the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games," said Mayor Ford. "The Games will generate investment, spending and jobs for Toronto."

Since 2003, Councillor Grimes has developed relationships with many of Toronto's sports leaders, and as the City's Toronto 2015 lead, he will draw upon his board member experience with groups including Tourism Toronto, the Toronto Sports Council and the Hockey Hall of Fame. In addition, Councillor Grimes was also the lead in getting the BMO Field to Toronto.

"I'm honoured to represent the City of Toronto for the 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games," said Councillor Grimes. "On behalf of our city, I look forward to welcoming athletes and visitors from around the globe. This is a great opportunity for sport and for Toronto to showcase the city's diversity, assets and attractions."

On Sunday, July 10 Toronto's iconic CN Tower will be lit up in the vibrant Toronto 2015 Pan Am red, blue and green brand colours to celebrate the four-year countdown. The Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games will involve more than 10,000 athletes, coaches and officials participating in 48 sports across 17 municipalities in the Greater Golden Horseshoe.

"The Government of Canada is very proud to support the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games," said the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport). "Today marks an exciting occasion as we begin our four-year countdown to when we will welcome the Americas in the largest international sporting event Canada has ever hosted."

The Games are held every four years for athletes of the 42 member nations of the Pan American Sport Organization (PASO). Canada has hosted them twice before, in 1967 and 1999, both times in Winnipeg.

"The 2015 Pan/Parapan Am Games will spark transformation in Ontario at many levels. I am confident that athletes of all abilities will benefit for years to come and so will the broader community when Ontario hosts the world in 2015," says Margarett Best, Ontario Minister of Health Promotion and Sport.

The Toronto 2015 Pan American Games will take place from July 10 to 26, 2015 and the Parapan Am Games will be held from August 7 to 14, 2015.

About the City of Toronto

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.6 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

About the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games

The Pan American Games are one of the world's largest international multi-sport events, held every four years for athletes of the 42 member nations of the Pan American Sport Organization (PASO). The Games comprise a mix of Olympic Summer Games sports, as well as traditional Pan American sports. The Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games will draw more than 10,000 athletes, coaches and officials and feature 48 sports in 17 municipalities across the Greater Golden Horseshoe area. The Toronto 2015 Pan American Games will take place July 10-26 and the Parapan American Games August 7-14. For more information about the Games, please visit visit toronto2015.org.

Parkbus launches bus service to Ontario Parks from Toronto

2011-07-07T09:30:00.002-04:00

TORONTO, July 7, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Parkbus kicked off the 2011 season as the first bus bound for Algonquin Provincial Park departed from Toronto this morning. The non-profit pilot initiative, funded in part by the Government of Ontario, provides direct bus service to popular camping, canoeing and backpacking hotspots in select provincial parks. Introducing a sustainable alternative to car travel, the project is set to help Torontonians experience Ontario's most popular outdoor destinations this summer.

"With its misty-morning lakes and its vast wooded areas, Algonquin Park is one of Ontario's greatest natural treasures," said Linda Jeffrey, Minister of Natural Resources. "Whether you like the full comfort of a lodge, want to try a night in a yurt or to sleep in a tent under the stars, this new service will help get people in the GTA closer to one of this provinces greatest treasures."

Buses are operated by Muskoka-based Hammond Transportation, with service running weekly until September 5th, with Thursday or Friday departures from Toronto and Sunday arrivals from the parks. Toronto pickup locations are located near College, Dufferin and Glencairn subway stations and a one-way adult fare is $34.95+HST. For trip planning information, complete schedule and tickets visit www.parkbus.ca or call 1-800-928-7101.

Parkbus is a project of Transportation Options (T.O.), a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering sustainable tourism and transportation in Ontario. Since 1992, T.O. has worked collaboratively to research, develop and promote new initiatives that are integrated, environmentally sound, healthy, service oriented and focused on improving the experience of users. Other projects of Transportation Options include award-winning Bike Train Initiative and the Welcome Cyclists Network.

The Next Generation of Social Networking has Arrived: Nextsportstar.com

2011-07-06T10:21:00.002-04:00

TORONTO, July 5, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Nextsportstar.com is a social networking website combining the best of Facebook, Twitter and YouTube and adds elements of Kijiji and Craigslist to create a unique social media site for one of our biggest passion touchpoints - and entertainment businesses - worldwide: SPORTS.

Nextsportstar.com is the digital meeting place for amateur athletes, teams, students and fans of all ages as well as amateur and professional coaches. Members (stars) share content and information for their passion for high school, college/university amateur sports and minor leagues.

Student and amateur male and female athletes create a profile (home page) of their sports achievements and share statistics, photos and video highlights. This information may just be of personal interest, but it will also be of interest to any amateur looking to gain a scholarship or be scouted for a professional team.

And for the professional recruiter and scout, it is a great site that captures the available talent in one convenient location, helping them evaluate athletes while giving a site to promote their college/university or team to prospects.

When a new member registers on Nextsporstar.com as a member (star), they share their interests and passions while connecting with other members and their friends (fans) in Nextsportstar.com blogs, polls, forums and private or public chat rooms worldwide.

Plus Nextsportstar.com has a classified advertising section, similar to Kijiji and Craigslist, where members advertise products and services to other members of their sport communities. The classified section is directly linked to PayPal to make transactions convenient and worry-free.

"I love this website" says Josh Rimer, television and radio sports broadcast producer, "It's a never ending way to connect with all levels of sport."

Hockey Hall of Famer Phil Esposito says, "Finally a social network that all hockey fans can connect with."

Besides being a unique site to network with people who are passionate about sports, Nextsportstar.com is also giving members an opportunity to win money with the $1 Million Dollars Up For Grabs contest, a first-ever in social networking websites. In total, there's $800,000 to be won by amateur athletes, with another $200,000 for schools' athletic programs!

For further information, visit www.nextsportstar.com

Each year, BCAA Road Assist rescues close to 300 children and pets from locked cars

2011-07-06T09:45:00.002-04:00

Summer heat can turn your car into a four-door furnace in a matter of minutes, warns British Columbia Automobile Association

BURNABY, British Columbia, July 4, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - An unfortunate incident over the Canada Day long weekend in which a six-month old puppy died after being left alone in a hot vehicle in Burnaby serves as an example of how quickly temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to dangerous—and sometimes fatal—levels. What parents and pet owners may not know, and what the British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA) would like everyone to know, is that it only takes minutes for your car to become a four-door furnace and a safety risk to vulnerable passengers such as children and pets.

"Cars sitting in the hot summer sun act like magnifying glasses, creating intense interior heat," says Ken Cousin, BCAA's Associate Vice President, Road Assist. "Interior temperatures can climb to over 60 degrees Celsius in just 10 to 20 minutes, despite windows or sunroofs being left slightly open or parking the car in the shade."

According to the Vehicle Cabin Temperatures Survey conducted by the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland in Australia, temperatures inside a car can increase by 50 percent within five minutes and 80 percent within 15 minutes. The Canada Safety Council also reports high temperatures in a confined space of a car can cause a child or pet to go into shock quickly, and circulation to vital organs can fail.

Each year, BCAA Road Assist rescues close to 300 children and pets from locked cars.

Many of the 'accidental lock-in' calls attended by BCAA technicians occur while children playing with keys lock themselves inside the vehicle, or when drivers and their passengers become distracted while getting in and out of their vehicle. Car doors can close unexpectedly, locking young children or a pet in the car along with the car keys. BCAA receives about 100,000 requests from Members each year to retrieve keys from inside locked cars.

To avoid any chance of a child or family pet being harmed by the heat of a car this summer, BCAA encourages parents, caregivers and pet owners to play it safe and take the following precautions:

...Never leave a child or pet alone in a car, even with the windows down or air conditioner on.

...Leave your pets at home during hot summer days unless you need to take them to the veterinarian office, doggie day camp, or grooming salon.

...When running errands, leave children with a responsible adult at home, or travel with a responsible passenger who can stay with children or pets while you complete your tasks.

...If you drive a pickup truck, don't leave dogs in the truck bed. The heat can burn their feet.

...Before buckling children into their seats, check to make sure surfaces such as seat belt buckles aren't overly hot as they could burn a child's sensitive skin.

...Teach children not to play in cars and keep car keys out of reach and sight.

...Keep your vehicle locked at all times—even at home in the garage or driveway. This will help prevent toddlers from crawling into a car and accidentally locking themselves inside.

...If a child or pet is locked inside a vehicle, don't hesitate to call 9-1-1.

Develop a routine so you're always aware that your child or pet is with you

...Look before you leave. Always turn around to check your backseat before you leave the car,
It is surprisingly common to forget you have kids or pets with you if they are quiet or sleeping.

...If you need to retrieve items placed in the backseat, make it a habit to open the rear doors rather than reaching from the front seat. This will ensure you don't forget anyone.

...Put your child's bags and other items in the front seat. With their belongings in plain sight, you're less likely to forget you're travelling with them.

...If you have several kids and/or pets in the car, do a head count before you close the door to make sure everyone is out when you reach your destination.

Facts about heat stress from enclosed cars:

...On a mild summer day, the temperature inside a parked car can rise to more than 60 degrees C. in just 15 minutes.

...50 percent of the temperature rise occurs within five minutes of closing the doors and temperatures can rise as high as 73 degrees C.

...Even if parked in the shade, opening the window slightly or keeping the air conditioner on does not keep the temperature inside the car at a safe level.

...Because of their small size, the core temperature of a baby or small pet can increase three to five times more rapidly and dramatically than an adult. Heatstroke, or hyperthermia, occurs when the body's core temperature reaches 40.5 degrees C. and can result in delirium, convulsions, coma or death.

Proterra Startup Will Make Electric Buses that Charge in 10 Minutes

2011-07-03T10:14:00.001-04:00

Photo: Proterra

"Could reduce transit agencies' fuel bills by 80%"

from TreeHugger.com
by Michael Graham Richard, Ottawa, Canada

Buses are a great way to commute, unless maybe if you live in a rural area where population density is very low, but they can be made better by switching their drivetrains from diesel to electric. Indeed, electrification is almost ideal for buses because they have predictable routes making it easier to plan the recharging of the batteries, and they spend most of their time accelerating and decelerating in relatively low-speed traffic (the best conditions for high-torque electric motors and regenerative brakes). The main problems holding this switch to electricity back are price and how long it takes to recharge the batteries... But the startup Proterra is working on solving both of those issues.

They've just raised 30 million dollars, including 6 million from GM, to produce electric buses that use relatively small battery packs - to keep costs down - that can be juiced-up at fast-charging stations in only 10 minutes (enough to give bus drivers time to go to the bathroom and stretch their legs).
Fuel-saving technology is important to transit agencies, especially now that diesel prices are high and volatile--a gallon of diesel costs a dollar more that it did a year ago. Proterra CEO Jeff Granato says each bus will save the transit agency $600,000 in fuel costs over the 12-year life of the vehicle, plus another $70,000 to $95,000 in maintenance costs. Electricity to charge the buses costs about 18 cents per mile, compared with about $1 a mile for diesel fuel. Granato says these savings make the total cost of an electric bus comparable to that of a diesel bus over the life of the vehicle, even though the electric bus costs more up front. (The company won't say how much the buses cost, but they do, apparently, need nearly $700,000 in fuel and maintenance savings to break even with diesel buses.) ( source)

Proterra uses lithium titanate batteries that, it claims, allows them to be recharged in less than 10 minutes every few hours all day and still last eight years or more. They've also developed a special charging station that is 100% automated. The bus just goes under and a special arm overhead connects to the bus, charging the batteries are passengers get off and on the bus. Very clever.

If it works as advertised, I hope that cities around the world will pay attention and that bus fleets will be converted, over time, to this kind of technology!

Via Technology Review

... read more story at TreeHugger.com

Federal-Provincial Enforcement Partnership on Great Lakes Piping Plovers

2011-07-02T13:00:00.002-04:00

photo from WasagaBeachTalking

WASAGA BEACH, Ontario, June 30, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Environment Canada and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources are teaming up this spring and summer to protect returning Piping Plover, an endangered species of bird, on Ontario's Wasaga, Sauble and Oliphant beaches.

To provide beach-goers with information about the birds and to ensure their habitat remains undisturbed, Environment Canada's enforcement officers, together with Ontario's Ministry of Natural Resources park wardens and conservation officers, will be patrolling the fenced off areas where Piping Plovers are nesting and raising their young.

The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (Ontario Parks) invited Environment Canada to join in protecting the endangered Piping Plover at Wasaga Beach throughout the nesting and fledgling seasons. The Government of Canada is proud to support the provincial and municipal governments who, together with local volunteers, have overseen the successful nesting of Piping Plovers every year since 2007.

For the fourth consecutive year, Piping Plovers have returned to Great Lakes beaches to nest and raise their young. The Piping Plover is listed as a species at risk in Canada and is a regulated species under Ontario's Endangered Species Act. Plovers are part of the Great Lakes breeding population and their continued migration to, and successful nesting and fledgling on, Great Lakes beaches are significant, since until recently they were absent for over 30 years.

Recovery techniques aimed at maintaining or increasing plover numbers include conservation measures such as signs, patrols, and enclosures to keep predators out, captive releases, the relocation of eggs, surveys, and public education by non-government organizations. If you live near or visit a beach where Piping Plovers nest, you can help the plover by not disturbing adults, their nests, or broods, as well as by asking other people to do the same. For more information about the Piping Plovers, visit: http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/ or http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/.

Major Renovation of One of Canada's most Prestigious Golf Courses

2011-06-29T18:12:00.001-04:00

Mike Weir to Redesign Blue Course at Le Club Laval-sur-le-Lac

MONTREAL, June 28, 2011 /Canada NewsWire Telbec/ - Le Club Laval-sur-le-Lac is pleased to announce it will be partnering with Weir Golf Design to transform its Blue Course into one of the most challenging and prestigious golf courses in Canada.

"We're delighted to work with Mike Weir, the best golfer Canada has ever produced, and his partner, Ian Andrew, a respected Canadian course architect with whom we have collaborated for more than 15 years," said Paul Legault, Chairman of the Board of Le Club Laval-sur-le-Lac, at today's news conference. "Mr. Weir brings his unique vision and experience to this ambitious project. Over the course of his remarkable career, he has played on some of the world's best golf courses, racking up eight wins on the PGA Tour, including a Masters' Tournament championship in 2003."

Founded in 1917 by a group of French Canadian businessmen, Le Club Laval-sur-le-Lac was designed by the famous and celebrated Scottish architect Willie Park Jr., also one of the top professional golfers of his era. Over the years, the Club added two nine-hole courses (1968 and 1992), known today as the Blue Course. Today, Le Club Laval-sur-le-Lac is considered a standard among Canadian golf courses.

"We want to make the Blue Course just as appealing as the Green Course," said Rémi Racine, Vice-Chairman of the Board and the project leader. "With the help of Mr. Weir and Mr. Andrew, we'll have a beautiful, modern course that will challenge players at any level," he added.

The team of Weir and Andrew

Mike Weir and Ian Andrew joined forces in the summer of 2009 to form a partnership.

According to Mr. Weir, "Ian and I both believe in developing courses where you need to use your mind as well as your skills to succeed. We both believe in presenting the golfer with multiple options and allowing the golfer the opportunity to take on as much risk as they feel comfortable with, but if they want to score they are going to have to take on all the hazards and attack the course which brings more of the danger into play. This is the main reason I wanted to team up with Ian. We share such a common vision on golf architecture and believe we can offer a style of architecture that is far more interesting to play. Ian has an outstanding reputation as a course architect, developed through his restoration and renovation of many of North America's best courses. The detail work that he has done on those projects will be brought into our new designs. Golfers will be impressed by the level of detailing in our greens and bunkers."

Outstanding environment

"The Blue Course at Le Club Laval-sur-le-Lac boasts an outstanding property and we intend to take full advantage of it," said Mr. Andrew. "Twelve of the holes will follow the same basic configuration as the original holes. We will make modest changes to enhance each hole particularly at the green sites. The other six will tremendously improve after we re-route them to make much better use of the existing topography. Mike and I are being given the opportunity to build something very special at Laval-sur-le-Lac."

Mike Weir says he is inspired by courses whose main characteristics are in the greens. In addition to being higher and featuring more relief, the turf around the greens can be mowed to increase the level of difficulty for tournaments.

"We hope this new course will leave more room for players' creativity, whether they are amateurs or pros," he said.

Work will begin in the fall of 2011 and the golf course will be ready for the 2013 season.

About Le Club Laval-sur-le-Lac

Le Club Laval-sur-le-Lac is a private golf club that offers its members two beautifully appointed courses in an exceptional setting. The Club's philosophy is to offer a blend of traditional and modern features, which has produced a strong sense of belonging among its members, from one generation to the next.

Toronto Port Authority Announces First Ever Sail-In Cinema Event

2011-06-28T10:46:00.002-04:00

TORONTO, June 27, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Toronto Port Authority (TPA), which is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2011, announced that it is holding North America's first ever floating movie event, Sail-In Cinema. It will take place from August 18 to 20 in Toronto's Harbour at Sugar Beach.

"The Toronto Port Authority has played a big part at the city's waterfront and waterways for over 100 years," says Geoffrey Wilson President and CEO "We wanted to create an experience that would give something back to the community and allow us to create a closer connection with the people who enjoy it."

The free event will feature a 28 foot two-sided screen so that moviegoers can enjoy water-themed movies in boats or on the mainland.

Movies will start after dusk, at approximately 9pm on each of the three nights.

The TPA is asking the public to recommend movies they'd like to see at the event until July 22. Requests can be sent through Facebook ( www.facebook.com/theTPA) or via email to cinema@torontoport.com.

In late July, the TPA will announce movie titles and select one winning entry from these submissions. The winner will receive two airline tickets to anywhere in North America, courtesy of Air Canada. Details about ticketing information will also be available in late July.

The Toronto Port Authority is presenting Sail-In Cinema with the support of its lead partner and waterfront neighbour Redpath Sugar, and media sponsor Q107. Other supporters include Toronto Star, Pier 27 by Cityzen Development and Fernbrook Homes, and creative and media innovation firm, Birthplace Inc.

Price of Gas Hits Record Highs Across Canada in May 2011

2011-06-27T15:31:00.003-04:00

Change to active transportation is needed

from EcoDriver.com and the Walkolution eNews June 2011

Last month, the price of a litre of gas reached an all time high in many parts of Canada; in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area, it rose to $1.39 per litre, promoting outrage from consumers and cries of “what can we do about it?”

Many suggestions were given in the mainstream media, most of which are promoted in Green Communities’ popular EcoDriver program. However, the media paid scant attention to one of those strategies – active transportation!

The average Canadian family spends at least $9,000 a year per car, and about 13% of Canada's carbon dioxide emissions are due to cars and light trucks on our roads. The average car emits one tonne of carbon dioxide every 5,000 kilometres and for those of us who drive, about half our personal greenhouse gas emissions come from driving.

The good news is that there are many ways to reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions, through driving habits, vehicle maintenance, choosing a fuel-efficient vehicle and considering alternatives to driving.

And all these measures can translate into big savings at the pump. Reducing fuel consumption by just ten tanks a year can save you hundreds of dollars, and reduce your personal CO2 emissions by almost a tonne.

Let’s all do our part to spread the word that active transportation is a big part of the solution - walking and cycling and other forms of ‘human powered’ transportation for short local trips saves both money and the environment.

Donald Trump's Scottish Golf Course Becomes Mini-Golf

2011-06-25T14:43:00.002-04:00

Photo: you've been trumped

from TreeHugger.com
by Bonnie Alter, London

The Donald is having a bad month. First his presidential campaign flopped and now his Scottish golf course development has too.

For environmentalists in Scotland who had opposed the development, there is a silver lining to the recession cloud: Trump has conceded that it is just too expensive to go ahead with the controversial plan to build a hotel and luxury villa development along with his golf course on the Scottish coast.

It's been a long and a lonesome road for "President" Trump.. He said that "the world has crashed" since he purchased the land and dunes in 2005. He has already spent £50 to £60 M of his own money to ensure the course itself was completed.

But the full development, a £750M complex covering 2,000 acres, with another 18-hole golf course, four blocks of 950 time-share flats, 500 exclusive houses, 36 villas, a golf academy and housing for 400 staff has been stopped by the recession.

The development has been controversial right from the start. He was proposing to build a billion pound golf course on the Scottish coastline; smack in the middle of an unspoilt natural habitat.

Relations with the local community were never good. He was particularly incensed at the one hold-out farmer who refused to sell. He said: "Forbes is someone who I would love to see clean up his property. It is a slum and a pigsty. His barn is rusty, rotten and falling down."

Despite opposition from residents and environmentalists, including the Chair of the local Council and the Scottish Wildlife Trust, it was approved because the First Minister of Scotland said "In tough economic times, substantial investment of this kind is at a premium."

Although he called himself a new-found son of Aberdeen, the locals never really bought it. A documentary called " You've Been Trumped" is playing an extended run in the local cinema. The documentary tells the story of the battle between the environmentalists, community and Trump's venture:

"Told entirely without narration, You've Been Trumped captures the cultural chasm between the glamorous, jet-setting and media savvy Donald Trump and a deeply rooted Scottish community. What begins as an often amusing clash of world views grows increasingly bitter and disturbing. For the tycoon, the golf course is just another deal, with a possible billion dollar payoff. For the residents, it represents the destruction of a globally unique landscape that has been the backdrop for their lives."

He has denounced the film as "a fraud".

More on Trump's Golf Course

Environmentalists Try to Trump Trump's Golf Course
Donald Trump Tees Off in Scotland
Has The Donald Been Trumped on the Links?

Pro Golfer Graham DeLaet Wants Canadians To Keep Their Eye On The Ball

2011-06-24T09:45:00.003-04:00

Learn about eye health, test your skills online and enter for a chance to win a round of golf with DeLaet or a trip for two to the 2012 Transitions Championship

TORONTO, June 21, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Golf season is in full swing and so are the sun's UV rays and glare. While Canadians are outside perfecting their games, many don't realize these long hours in the sun could be jeopardizing their game and eye health.

2011 PGA TOUR® golfer Graham DeLaet and Transitions Optical have joined forces to educate golfers - both professionals and amateurs - about the importance of healthy, uncompromised sight for optimal sports performance and the value of properly protecting their eyes for overall healthy sight.

To encourage Canadians to learn more about eye health, DeLaet is challenging Canadians to enter a contest by playing Transitions Optical's online Mini-Golf Championship at www.transitions.com/minigolfchampionship.

When Canadians register and play the online game, they are entered for a chance to win one of two grand prizes: a trip to Toronto with two friends to play a round of golf with DeLaet or a trip for two to the 2012 Transition's Optical Championship in Florida and two pairs of eyeglasses with Transitions® lenses.

"I hope to drive home that properly protecting your eyes will not only help Canadians improve their game, but will help ensure an overall healthy lifestyle on and off the course," said DeLaet.

Golfers contend with varying light and playing conditions and glare, as well as extended, consistent exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Less than three per cent of Canadians, however, know that UV rays can have long-term and irreversible damage to their vision and only 12 per cent say they wear sunglasses when heading outdoors.1 Glare, contrast, and squinting can all affect a person's golf game.

To preserve healthy eye sight on and off the course, golfers should ensure they have regular, routine eye exams and that they select lenses that block 100 per cent of the sun's UV rays and glare.

"Every time I set up a shot, I rely heavily on visual cues," said DeLaet. "Properly protecting my eyes with Transitions lenses, which adjust to the varying light conditions, not only improves the quality of my vision, making it easier to connect with the ball and to read the greens, but also protects my eyes from glare and UV rays."

...UV Rays and Your Eyes Taking simple steps to protect your eyes while outdoors can help prevent many long-term eye health problems, such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in North Americans over the age of 50.

...Cataracts, a major cause of vision loss and blindness, affect nearly one in nine North Americans over the age of 40, growing to nearly one in two by the age of 80.
...UV damage is cumulative, and builds over time, so it is never too early - or too late - to start protecting your eyes.

About Transitions Optical

As the leading provider of photochromics to optical manufacturers, Transitions Optical, headquartered in Pinellas Park, Fla., offers the most advanced photochromic technology in the widest selection of lens designs and materials. Transitions Optical is driven by innovation to support the advancement of healthy sight and adaptive eyewear, and to providing its partners the tools and programs their businesses need to thrive. Transitions® lenses are the #1-recommended photochromic lenses worldwide. Transitions Optical's family of products includes everyday lenses, designed to be worn indoors and darken outdoors, and performance lenses, designed to be worn outdoors in place of sun lenses. Transitions everyday lenses adapt to light to provide more comfortable vision while protecting eyes from UV. Transitions performance lenses include the company's sunwear line, Transitions® SOLFX™ sun lenses, which enhance visual performance in specific outdoor activities by adapting to optimize colour and darkness in changing light conditions.

For more information about healthy sight and protective eyewear, visit transitions.com or eyeglassguide.ca.

TD Friends of the Environment Foundation donates $15,000 to help replant trees damaged in riot

2011-06-18T09:28:00.003-04:00

VANCOUVER, June 17, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - TD Friends of the Environment Foundation today announced it will contribute $15,000 to the City of Vancouver to replace and rehabilitate trees damaged during the riots in downtown Vancouver earlier this week.

TD FEF makes this donation to support the City's clean-up efforts to restore the downtown area to its pre-riot condition by replanting and replacing affected trees.

"We were very concerned about the damage incurred during the riot in Vancouver on Wednesday night," said Mary Desjardins, Executive Director, TD Friends of the Environment Foundation. "We were inspired by the citizens who attempted to protect their city during the riot. Our contribution is part of the city's clean-up efforts, and will help replace planters and trees that were damaged or set alight."

The riot on Wednesday night touched many businesses in the downtown core, including TD. Several windows had to be replaced at the TD Canada Trust location at 700 West Georgia Street. The branch has now reopened and full services are available.

"We'd like to thank our customers for their support and understanding during the repair process," said Barb Stangoe, Branch Manager, TD Canada Trust. "We look forward to welcoming our customers back to the branch, as the city attempts to return to business as usual."

About TD Friends of the Environment Foundation:

Since 1990, TD FEF has provided more than $54 million in funding to over 19,500 grassroots environment and wildlife projects across Canada. Thousands of donors give to TD FEF on a monthly basis and TD Bank Group contributes in excess of $1 million annually. TD also covers the management costs of running TD FEF, which guarantees 100 per cent of every dollar donated goes directly to funding environment and wildlife projects in the community where the donation was made. For more information on how to donate and get involved in your community, visit www.tdfef.com.

Solar-Powered Car Charging in Rainy England (Video)

2011-06-17T14:41:00.001-04:00

Image credit: Fully Charged

from TreeHugger.com
by Sami Grover, Carrboro, NC, USA

With whole towns trying to go solar, and community-owned power stations springing up on brewery roofs, it's fair to say that solar is going mainstream in the UK. One of the latest people to take advantage of generous government feed-in tariffs is comedy legend and electric car advocate Robert Llewellyn, who walks us through the installation on his home, and explores the tantalizing possibility of zero emission transport.

With some folks arguing that solar power never makes economic sense, and others that solar feed-in tariffs are a rip off, it's clear that Llewellyn's argument for essentially "free" energy should be taken with a pinch of salt. As he runs through the numbers, it's also evident that much of the economics of pay-back he cites is heavily reliant on the feed-in tariffs.

Nevertheless, as he argues in his conclusion, solar panels and electric cars may be expensive—but then so are massive government subsidies to multinational oil giants. Sure, wind, conservation, insulation and bikes should probably all come before solar and electric cars. But this still feels like a step in the right direction.

More from Robert Llewellyn's Fully Charged

The Delta E4 Coupe. An Ultra-Efficient Electric Car (Video)
Do Electric Cars Still Suck? Fully Charged vs Cnet UK (Video)
An Electric Beetle Dragster, and the Finished E4 Electric Coupe (Video)

... read more story at TreeHugger.com

Are Cyclists Selfish and Rude? No, And We Have Video to Prove It

2011-06-12T12:53:00.002-04:00

Stop signs every 266 feet on Toronto's Palmerston Avenue. Image credit Lloyd Alter

from TreeHugger.com
by Lloyd Alter, Toronto

It is the talk of Toronto right now, how cyclists break the law by blowing through stop signs, riding the wrong way on one way streets, and give the finger to anyone who complains. The Star gives a couple of column inches to a woman who says:

I am tired of cyclists purposely and chronically breaking the law....After they come flying out of a side street unseen into the path of my car, and my heart pounds because I almost hit them, I yell at them for being on a one-way street, and 95 per cent tell me to F-off. I stop at stop lights, (but) 95 per cent of cyclists don't.

Cyclist Emma Woolley writes in Spacing Magazine:

Why do cyclists feel that they're above the law in almost every single situation? Why the sense of entitlement and "because I can?" There's a widespread attitude that we don't have to follow the rules simply because we're not in a car. It's unsafe and quite frankly, stupid.

No, Emma, I don't go through stop signs "because I can", but because they are designed to regulate cars, not bikes, and the law that says I should stop for them is stupid. Four-way stops were introduced as a method of speed control that is not relevant to cyclists and that barely works for cars, and that It's Time To Rip Out The Stop Signs And Stop Blaming Cyclists.

Bike activist James Schwartz of the Urban Country has had enough of this, and writes:

The mainstream media in Toronto has resorted to name calling and hyperbolic generalizations about Toronto cyclists in an effort to shame cyclists into blindly obeying laws that were designed primarily for motor vehicles....Cyclists in North America already get the short end of the stick and there is already enough animosity on our streets. Instead of writing articles that breed hatred towards cyclists while ignoring the fact that motor vehicles kill several dozens of people every year in Toronto alone, we should be using that energy to change our laws to make cycling more safe and comfortable so that cyclists aren't tempted to bend the law to stay clear of danger.

But instead of just writing "another long-winded article in protest", he took to the streets with his video camera yesterday. It isn't as funny as Jaymi's post Cyclist Argues Against Bike-Lane Police Fine In Hilarous Video; it just shows lots of people following most of the rules, being polite, yielding to cars turning right, and not even swearing at the truck blocking the bike lane, just riding around it. That is the Toronto cycling scene as I know it.

More at the Urban Country

... read more story at TreeHugger.com

Interac Flash™ to be accepted at Petro-Canada locations across Canada

2011-06-09T16:08:00.002-04:00

Interac Flash contactless debit technology to fuel speed and convenience

TORONTO, June 8, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Interac Association announced today that Suncor Energy will accept Interac Flash contactless debit transactions in store at its participating Petro-Canada locations across Canada toward the end of this year, with national rollout in early 2012. Interac Flash, which is an enhancement of Interac Debit, is the first contactless debit technology to be offered in Canada.

Canadians will soon be able to gas up quickly and conveniently by paying directly from their bank account with Interac Flash - all without having to insert their debit card or enter their PIN. With the flash of their card in front of an Interac Flash-enabled contactless reader, cardholders will be able to pay for gas and a variety of other products and services offered by Petro-Canada inside the store.

"With Suncor Energy offering the innovation of Interac Flash at Petro-Canada locations across Canada, cardholders can pay for everyday items using debit faster than ever before," said Mark O'Connell, President and CEO, Interac Association/Acxsys Corporation. "Interac Flash will deliver speed and convenience for both merchants and consumers at check-out, while offering the security features of chip technology."

Interac Flash enabled cards will start to be rolled out through participating financial institutions this year.

How Interac Flash Works

Interac Flash allows cardholders to make secure, contactless debit transactions at the point-of-sale. The card will continue to perform standard chip debit transactions, as it does today, but through the use of dual-interface microchip, the functionality of the card has been enhanced to allow cardholders to make contactless transactions, without needing to insert their card or enter a PIN.

At checkout, cardholders are prompted to place their Interac Flash-enabled card in front of the contactless reader to conduct a secure transaction. The purchase amount will automatically be debited from the bank account that is normally used accessing the chequing button.

If the purchase is above the limits set by the issuing financial institution, the cardholder will be asked to insert the Interac Flash-enabled card and enter the PIN to conduct a regular chip debit transaction. Transaction and card limits are set by financial institutions.

Interac Flash builds on the security of global EMV™ standards and chip technology while maintaining the level of protection Canadians can expect from the Interac brand. Cardholders are protected from unauthorized transactions under the Interac Zero Liability Policy* and merchants continue to receive the benefits of secure and non-refutable transactions associated with Interac Debit chip technology.

About Interac Association

A recognized world leader in debit card services, Interac Association is responsible for the development and operations of the Interac network, a national payment network that allows Canadians to access their money through 59,000 Automated Banking Machines and 727,000 point-of-sale terminals across Canada.

Interac Association was founded in 1984 and is comprised of a diverse membership that includes banks, trust companies, credit unions, caisses populaires, merchants, and technology and payment related companies.

Other related services offered by Acxsys Corporation, whose shareholders are the architects of the Interac network, include: Interac Online, for secure online payments made directly from a bank account; Interac e-TransferTM, for the transfer of money from one person's bank account to another person's bank account using an email address or mobile phone number**; and international services, which provide Canadian cardholders with point-of-sale access at nearly 2 million U.S. retailers, and PULSE, Discover, Diners Club International and UnionPay cardholders access to ABMs in Canada.

®, ™: Interac, the Interac logo, Interac Flash and Interac e-Transfer are trade-marks of Interac Inc. Used under license.

EMVTM is a trademark owned by EMVCo. LLC.

* Protection applies to losses resulting from circumstances beyond a cardholder's control. Some conditions apply. Read more about the Interac Zero Liability Policy at interac.ca.

** The Interac e-Transfer service is currently available to customers of over 25 banks and credit unions including BMO Bank of Montreal, CIBC, President's Choice Financial, RBC Royal Bank, Scotiabank and TD Canada Trust among others. Central 1, through participating credit unions, offers the option of sending Interac e-Transfers using mobile phone numbers. More information about the Interac e-Transfer service and a complete list of participating banks and credit unions can be found here.

Golf Industry Calls for Tax Fairness for Canada's Most Popular Sport

2011-06-09T11:05:00.002-04:00

National Allied Golf Associations Reacts to Federal Budget

OTTAWA, June 7, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Today the National Allied Golf Associations (NAGA) brought golf industry representatives from across the country to Parliament in order to comment on Minister Flaherty's recent Budget and to advocate for tax fairness for the game of golf, Canada's most popular sport. NAGA held the industry's first federal golf awareness day to underscore the importance of the sport for the health of Canadians, and the significance of the industry for the Canadian economy.

"Canada is a golfing country," said Jeff Calderwood, NAGA spokesman. "There are an estimated 6 million Canadian golfers and there are more than 2,500 golf courses and practice ranges in Canada. It is the country's most popular sport. There are more golfers in Canada than there are hockey players, and the industry is worth more than $11 billion per year to the Canadian economy."

"Unfortunately the golf industry in Canada suffers from an outdated 40-year-old tax policy that singles out golf businesses in an unfair manner," continued Mr. Calderwood. "Yesterday's Budget did nothing to rectify this inequity."

Due to a 1971 tax reform, the Canada Revenue Agency does not allow deductions for expenses incurred by business people entertaining clients at golf courses. Canada's 2,500 golf courses, most of whom are small business operators, feel that they cannot compete fairly with all the other industries where CRA does support entertaining clients. Over time, the unfairness of this discrimination against the golf industry has become more and more significant.

"To Canada's 2,500 golf course operators, who are now facing the most competitive marketplace in our industry's history, this unfair tax legislation is no longer a tolerable disadvantage. NAGA and its member associations call on the federal government to close this loophole and establish tax fairness for Canada's golf industry," concluded Calderwood.

NAGA is a national golf organization comprised of the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA), Canadian Professional Golfers Association (CPGA), Canadian Society of Club Managers (CSCM), Canadian Professional Golf Tour (CPGT), National Golf Course Owners Association Canada (NGCOA) and the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA), dedicated to improving all sectors of golf in Canada. Formed in 1999, NAGA's objective is to work cooperatively together as industry leaders ensuring a strong future for golf in Canada.

Stormy Weather

2011-06-07T11:26:00.001-04:00

If the birds be silent, expect thunder.

from The Old Farmers Almanac

Hurricane season is upon us, and Almanac.com is the place to turn for everything you need to weather a storm.

Here’s the forecast for the 2011 hurricane season (between June 1 and November 30): Well above-average activity is predicted for the Atlantic Basin versus the historical average (based on 1950–2000 records).

The probability of landfall by a major hurricane is also above average. Factors influencing the hurricane predictions include warm and favorable tropical Atlantic conditions.

See more detail, including number of storms predicted, on our Hurricane Forecasts and Common Questions page.

The earliest breath of June
Blows the white tassels from the cherry boughs,
And in the deepest shadow of the noon
The mild-eyed oxen browse.

– Elizabeth Ann Allen (1832–1911)

Spearhead Brewing Company Pours Its First Pint

2011-06-06T14:41:00.004-04:00

TORONTO, June 6, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Something new is brewing in Toronto: Beer Without Boundaries™. Unique, all-natural, unfiltered beer brought to you by Spearhead Brewing Company. On June 17, 2011, this family-run, craft brewery begins pouring pints at more than 30 establishments in Toronto, Guelph, London and Muskoka.

Spearhead Brewing Company was founded by Dimitri van Kampen, a Toronto-born beer geek and foodie who wanted to create bold, distinctive beer that would get people thinking differently about the world's most popular alcoholic beverage.

A lawyer by trade, van Kampen's true passion is craft beer and, in particular, the extreme brewing movement that has taken the United States by storm over the last decade. A few years ago, he discovered home brewing and started dreaming up beer recipes using non-traditional ingredients like fruit and spices to create beer with complex, unanticipated flavours. "We don't want to conform to expectations," said van Kampen. "We will always test our imagination and the imagination of our customers."

Also, unlike some breweries that filter their beer and carbonate it using CO2, Spearhead Brewing Company brews "real beer" meaning that it is unfiltered, non-pasteurized and naturally carbonated so that all of the beer's flavour remains where it's supposed to be—in your glass.

To make his dream a reality, van Kampen enlisted Tom Schmidt, a brewmaster with over 30 years' experience. "For our first beer," said van Kampen, "I wanted to come out with an aromatic, hoppy West Coast pale ale and brew it Hawaiian style—with pineapple. It's like aloha in a bottle."

About Spearhead Brewing Company

Founded by Dimitri van Kampen in 2011, Spearhead Brewing Company was born out of a passion for real beer and a dedication to brewing Beer Without Boundaries™. At Spearhead Brewing Company, we refuse to adhere to the limitations set by traditional style definitions. We strive to transcend the perceived boundaries of beer and explore beer's unlimited potential. Using non-traditional ingredients and brewing methods, we make all-natural craft beer that is so distinctive and delicious it cannot be judged by ordinary standards. Spearhead beer is currently available on draft at fine establishments. We hope you enjoy drinking our beer as much as we love dreaming it up and making it for you.

To find out more about Spearhead, visit:
spearheadbeer.com
Twitter: @SpearheadBeer
Facebook: Spearhead Brewing Company

The Weather Network's Summer Outlook: "Shifting" Summer Weather Patterns

2011-06-01T09:20:00.002-04:00

Meteorologists share what to expect this summer and tips on how to weather the weather

OAKVILLE, Ontario, May 30, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Weather Network has just announced its summer outlook for the months of June, July and August. After a spring season which has seen flooding in parts of Manitoba and Quebec along with cooler and wetter conditions in parts of Ontario and British Columbia, Canadians can expect conditions to be changeable this summer due to weakening of the La Niña weather phenomenon. This means that that some places could see alternating spells of warm and cool weather, while other areas will experience a "typical" summer season.

So, what should Canadians know about the weather in their region this summer?

The Western Canada Summer Canadians living west of the Ontario/Manitoba border can expect temperatures that are above normal for the Northern Prairie provinces and below normal on the north/central coast of British Columbia. Elsewhere, we should average out near normal this summer. Unfortunately, wet conditions are expected to continue for Canadians living in Southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba, near normal precipitation will dominate for the rest of western Canada. A large area of the Territories will see below normal precipitation this summer with Nunavut experiencing above normal temperatures.

The Eastern Canada Summer For Canadians living east of the Ontario/Manitoba border, the changing weather patterns means residents can expect alternating spells of warm and cool weather, more pronounced than usual at times, balancing out to be near normal. Those living in Northern Ontario and Quebec can look forward to above normal temperatures for the season. Precipitation for most of Quebec and Atlantic Canada will be near normal for the season, while a large swath of Ontario and Southern Quebec is expected to receive above normal precipitation due to a more active storm track.

Conquering the Changeable Canadian Summer After a particularly cold and stormy winter, Canadians long for a Canadian Summer. Following are five tips to enjoying the weather this summer. For more information, visit www.theweathernetwork.com, or your preferred WeatherEye application:

...Protect your skin and eyes. Fun in the sun also means exposure to damaging UV rays (strongest from April to August), that can cause sunburns, eye cataracts, skin aging and skin cancer. Take care by checking The Weather Network's UV Report, created to inform Canadians about the strength of the sun's UV rays. The higher the UV Index number, the stronger the sun's rays, and the greater the need to take precautions.

...Don't let traffic rain on your parade. Don't let traffic be a thorn in your summer travel plans. Before you hit the road, consult The Weather Network's Highway Forecast to avoid inclement weather on your route. Heading across the border? Check out the US Highway Forecast to determine the road conditions while you'll be on the road.

...Predict the future. The Weather Network's Hourly Forecast helps you plan your day down to the hour. Don't let stormy skies threaten your summer get together. The hourly forecast will help determine whether to dine indoors or bring the BBQ to the backyard.

...Breathe easy. Many Canadians suffer from the summer snifflies. Believe it or not, the weather - winds, temperature, rainfall and sunshine - has a profound affect on the type of allergy season we have. The Weather Network's Pollen Forecast, shows daily pollen concentration by source (grass, ragweed, etc.). Before heading into the great outdoors, check out the local Pollen Forecast so that you can take the proper precautions to enjoy your time outside.

...Don't be bugged. Black flies, mosquitoes and deer flies, oh my! Sharing a sleeping bag with a family of creepy crawlies isn't the average Canadian's idea of "getting closer to nature." Avoid summer swatting by referring to The Weather Network's bug report, a daily breakdown of bug activity by region.

About The Weather Network and MétéoMédia

The Weather Network and its French counterpart, MétéoMédia, are among the most popular media brands in Canada. They are the undisputed leader of weather information services in Canada across all mediums including cable, satellite, online, mobile and newspapers. The specialty television networks are among the most widely distributed and frequently consulted television networks in Canada. The websites, www.theweathernetwork.com and meteomedia.com, are among Canada's leading web services. All mobile carriers now distribute The Weather Network and MétéoMédia on their services. As the leading source of weather services in the commercial market, energy companies, municipalities, road services and numerous other commercial clients have their weather information needs met by The Weather Network and MétéoMédia. The growth of The Weather Network and MétéoMédia can be attributed to the continued focus and commitment put into providing the very best weather information to Canadians whose activities are dependent on weather.

25,000 Canadians Now Subscribe to Wireless AMBER Alerts

2011-05-20T15:21:00.002-04:00

Free text message service helps in the safe return of abducted children

OTTAWA, May 20, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA) today announced the Wireless AMBER Alerts program has reached the 25,000-subscriber milestone. Launched just one year ago, the Wireless AMBER Alerts initiative allows customers of most Canadian wireless service providers to opt-in to receive free AMBER Alerts as text messages on their cell phones.

Wireless AMBER Alerts assist AMBER Alert agencies in providing the public with immediate and up-to-date information about a child's abduction, and to solicit the public's help in the safe and swift return of the child. The program is administered by Canada's wireless telecommunications industry, in partnership with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and AMBER Alert agencies across the country. The service is hosted and powered in-kind by Olson.

"The wireless industry extends its sincere appreciation to the thousands of Canadians and our industry partners and ambassadors that have joined together to ensure that our most precious citizens can count on us when they may need us most," said Bernard Lord, President & CEO of CWTA. "I encourage all Canadians to invest the few short minutes it takes to register, because when a child is abducted, everyone feels the loss".

The completely free Wireless AMBER Alerts program is available to cell phone users in all 10 provinces and three territories. Subscribing is easy to do either online at www.WirelessAMBER.ca, or by texting the keyword AMBER to 26237 directly from your wireless device.

Participating wireless service providers: Bell, Fido, Koodo, MTS, NorthernTel, Rogers, SaskTel, Solo, Télébec, TELUS, Videotron, Virgin Mobile and Wind Mobile. Wireless

AMBER Alerts Ambassadors: Air Canada, Pepsi Bottling Group and Shaw Communications.

Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA)

CWTA is the authority on wireless issues, developments and trends in Canada. It represents cellular, PCS, messaging, mobile radio, fixed wireless and mobile satellite carriers as well as companies that develop and produce products and services for the industry. (www.cwta.ca)

Ontarians Urged to Take Care When Opening Seasonal Homes

2011-05-19T16:13:00.002-04:00

Ontario Fire Marshal and OPP Promote Cottage Safety

ORILLIA, Ontario, May 19, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The May long weekend is when most Ontarians open their cottages and other seasonal homes. The Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are urging Ontarians to add safety and prevention to their weekend plans.

"Ontarians wait a long time for cottage season to arrive. Take added precautions when opening up your cottage or seasonal home and enjoy a safe, secure and carefree summer." - Jim Bradley, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services

Cottages and other seasonal homes are vulnerable to unsafe conditions that can arise over the winter such as smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that no longer work, and chimneys that have become blocked. Cottages can also become targets for break-ins, not just in the winter, but also when unoccupied during the summer months.

"The OPP encourages all owners of vacation homes to take the necessary precautions to protect your property and prevent break-ins. Owners should report any and all suspicious activity to police immediately upon arrival, and before entering if possible." - Chris Lewis, Commissioner, OPP

The OFM and OPP are advising Ontarians to create a checklist to ensure that their cottages and other seasonal homes, such as cabins and trailers are safe and secure.

When opening the cottage, always ensure that:

...You bring smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that are in working condition

...Chimneys and vents are not blocked by bird nests or other debris

...All door and window locks are secure and homes are properly locked at all times

Always be on the look out for strangers in the neighbourhood, people taking "shortcuts" through your property and unfamiliar vehicles making repeat visits through the neighbourhood. Record licence plate numbers and descriptions of any suspicious vehicles.

Know the telephone number for the local fire, police and emergency services, and your cottage's emergency sign number.

"Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are essential to keeping you and your family safe. This weekend, Ontarians should purchase new alarms and batteries as they will likely need replacing after the long winter." - Ted Wieclawek, Ontario Fire Marshal

QUICK FACTS

...Installing smoke alarms is the law in Ontario. At a minimum, every cottage or seasonal home must have a working smoke alarm on every storey and outside all sleeping areas.

...Cottages and other seasonal homes should be equipped with a carbon monoxide alarm.

...Electronics and alcohol are often targeted by thieves. Ensure that all valuable items and alcohol are secured or removed from the premises when not in use.

The OPP helps maintain the Cottage Watch Program through the Federation of Ontario Cottager's Associations.

LEARN MORE

For OFM Cottage Safety Tips
For OPP Cottage Watch
For Rural Crime Prevention Tips

Barbecue Food Safety Tips

2011-05-18T12:51:00.001-04:00

OTTAWA - May 17, 2011 - Barbecue season has begun and Health Canada would like to remind Canadians of steps they can take to avoid foodborne illness caused by bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella and Campylobacter.

Eating undercooked meat and other foods that have come into contact with raw meat can result in foodborne illnesses. Symptoms can include severe stomach cramps, vomiting, fever and diarrhea.

You can help lower your risk of foodborne illness by handling and cooking raw meat carefully.
Storing:

...Raw meat should always be stored in the refrigerator or cooler at 4ºC (40ºF) or below.

...If you are storing raw meat in a cooler, make sure that it is packed with ice and the cooler stays out of direct sunlight. Avoid opening it too often. Ensure meat products are well sealed and that ice water doesn't come in contact with stored meat products. This can lead to cross-contamination.

...Make sure to keep raw meat and other foods separate to avoid cross-contamination.

Clean:

Remember to wash your hands and other utensils, like cutting boards, counters and knives, carefully with soap and warm water before and after handling raw meats. This helps avoid potential cross-contamination and prevent the spread of foodborne illness.

When you grill:

Colour alone is not a reliable indicator that meat is safe to eat. Meat can turn brown before all bacteria are killed, so use a digital food thermometer to be sure.

...To check the temperature of meat that you are cooking on the barbecue, take the meat off the grill and insert the digital food thermometer through the thickest part of the meat.

...If you are cooking a beef hamburger, take the patty from the grill and insert the digital food thermometer through the side, all the way to the middle of the patty.

...If you're cooking more than one patty or pieces of meat, be sure to check the temperature of each of the pieces.

...Use clean utensils and plates when removing cooked meats from the grill.

...Remember to wash the thermometer in hot, soapy water between temperature readings.

...Always remember to keep hot food hot until you are ready to serve.

It is estimated that there are approximately 11 million cases of food-related illnesses in Canada every year. Many of these illnesses could be prevented by following proper food handling and preparation techniques.

For more information on food safety tips while barbecuing, please visit:

Government of Canada's Barbecuing Food Safety Tips

Government of Canada's Food Safety Portal

Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education's Be Food Safe Canada Campaign

It's Your Health on Summer Food Safety

It's Your Health on How to Avoid Illness from Hamburgers

Trip planning and emergency preparedness key to ensuring road travellers reach their destinations safe and sound

2011-05-14T13:29:00.003-04:00

Plan your route, prep your car, pack supplies

BURNABY, BC, May 10, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The dramatic story of a B.C. couple who made a tragic wrong turn on their trip to Las Vegas offers a startling reminder of the need for road travellers to make plans and preparations before heading out on the road. The British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA) recommends all road travellers make and follow a plan, and take a few other precautions that will help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Plan ahead

Chart your path electronically and on paper. In addition to a GPS (Global Positioning System) device, use up-to-date maps or travel guides which can be marked up with your travel notes. Carrying printed maps will also ensure you have access to road details at all times. Make sure all adult travellers know the route ahead of time. Plan where you'll stop or stay overnight and calculate the amount of time it will take to reach each destination.

Research your route.

Check ahead for road conditions and roadwork schedules, and scan for radio stations offering local travel info. Figure out where gas stations, campgrounds and other accommodations are located along your route, then mark them on a printed map. Anyone can access BCAA's online Triptik®, a trip planning guide, free-of-charge to print out a customized map which includes details such as hotel and gas station locations along with planned construction and detours along your route.

Leave an itinerary with someone you trust.

Provide family members or friends with a copy of your itinerary and/or marked-up map. Share details about your schedule such as planned arrival times, where you plan to stop and how long you'll stay. Notify someone whenever your plans change.

Schedule regular phone calls.

Set up specific call times with friends or family so they know where you're located at all times. Try to anticipate areas where cell phone service may be unavailable. If you miss two or more scheduled calls, someone will know something may have gone wrong and can notify the authorities about your itinerary.

Carry travel medical insurance. If you're travelling anywhere outside B.C., ensure you carry adequate medical insurance for yourself and all family members in case of emergencies.

Prepare your vehicle

Give your vehicle a thorough tune-up. Get your vehicle inspected by a licensed auto repair technician at least two weeks prior to your trip to allow time for repairs. Get the following items checked: wiper blades, all fluids, tire pressure and tread, hoses and belts, brakes, and air conditioning.

Check your spare tire.

Ensure your spare tire is in good condition and properly inflated. Make sure you carry proper tools required to change a tire such as a tire iron that fits your vehicle's lug nuts, a car jack and WD-40 to help loosen rusted or tightly wound lug nuts.

Understand your GPS device.

Make sure your GPS unit works properly and is accurately calibrated. Ensure you understand how to use your GPS device by reading the manual thoroughly or contacting the GPS manufacturer or retailer to receive some training.

What to pack

...Well-stocked first-aid kit. Include bandages, gauze, pain reliever, allergy medication, antiseptic, and any other medication your family may need.

...A few light tools. Some simple tools can be used for minor vehicle repairs and can also get you out of a jam. Carry a small variety of tools such as: a roll of duct tape, screwdrivers, a hammer, an adjustable wrench, pliers, baling wire, a flashlight, a can of WD-40, and a rag.

...Emergency items. Road flares, a jug of drinking water and an emergency blanket are handy in case you have to wait a long period of time for help.

...Fully charged cell phone and car charger. Remember to pull over to a safe place to use your phone, or have a passenger place the call.

...Emergency food. Carry high energy, non-perishable, no-preparation foods that can sustain you for a long period of time.

Be prepared for winter weather. If you're travelling through the mountains you may experience winter weather conditions, despite it being spring or summer time. Carry warm clothes and boots in the cab of your vehicle or in a place that's easy to access.

For more road trip planning tips, online maps and travel books, visit bcaa.com/roadtrip. BCAA Members can also visit any BCAA location to speak with a Membership Specialist and have a BCAA Triptik® prepared and printed.

About BCAA

BCAA strives to deliver an amazing experience to its 790,000 members, providing peace-of-mind and meeting their automotive, road travel and insurance needs. BCAA is the largest organization of its kind in B.C., with $400 million in gross annual sales and a Member in one-in-four B.C. households. In addition to receiving award winning roadside assistance and insurance services, Members can also take advantage of CAA dollar rewards, insurance discounts and the Member exclusive Show Your Card & Save program. To learn more about BCAA's benefits, services and advocacy, visit www.bcaa.com.

Joe Carter's Double - The 2nd Annual Joe Carter Classic Golf Tournament

2011-05-13T17:34:00.004-04:00

Joe Carter's Double - The 2nd Annual Joe Carter Classic Golf Tournament wants to double its fundraising goal for Children's Aid Foundation.

TORONTO, May 13, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Retired Toronto Blue Jay and World Series champion Joe Carter is back in Toronto to host the 2nd Annual Joe Carter Classic Golf Tournament. On June 29 more than 30-top name sports and entertainment celebrities, together with the help of sponsors, hope to raise $150,000, up from $75,000 raised last year, for the Children's Aid Foundation.

"Our first annual golf tournament was such a great success that I wanted to build on our momentum," said Carter. "The Children's Aid Foundation is a great way for me to give back to this city."

Sports and entertainment celebrities who will be participating in the tournament include Charles Barkley, George Bell, Rod Black, Dean Blundell, Ray Bourque, Johnny Bower, Jacob Brumfield, Luca Caputi, Vince Coleman, Ken Griffey Jr., Dave Henderson, Bo Jackson, Paul Jones, Mike Krushelnyski, Barry Larkin, Gary Leeman, Kenny Lofton, Fred McGriff, Eddie Shack, Ozzie Smith, Dave Stewart, Trish Stratus, Devon White, Wojtek Wolski.

"Joe's been a great supporter of the Children's Aid Foundation and his commitment brings us one step closer to making the world a better place for our children and youth," said Len Gamache, President, Children's Aid Foundation. "The generosity of the celebrities and sponsors will give our communities' most vulnerable children access to programs that will help them reach their full potential."

Presenting sponsors for the tournament are TD Bank Group and BlackBerry. Supporting sponsors are Diesel, Toronto Star, CIBC, Callaway, CTV and Labatt. For a full list of all the sponsors, please visit www.joecarterclassic.com.

About Joe Carter Classic Golf Tournament

The Joe Carter Classic Golf Tournament will raise funds annually for the Children's Aid Foundation. Our goal is to deliver a fun and unique golf event that provides our guests an opportunity to network, play golf and mingle with many of the top athletes in the world, all while raising important awareness and funding for The Children's Aid Foundation.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities, visit www.joecarterclassic.com

About The Children's Aid Foundation

Founded in 1979, the Children's Aid Foundation is a national charity dedicated to improving the lives of abused, neglected and at risk children in Canada. The Foundation works with child welfare agencies across the country to fund prevention, enrichment and education programming. During the last 30 years, the Foundation has raised over $100 million and helped more than one million children and youth. For more information, visit http://www.cafdn.org/

North American Safe Boating Awareness Week - Help Save Lives this Summer

2011-05-11T10:31:00.004-04:00

GWSA Canoe Club photo

TORONTO, May 11, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - North American Safe Boating Awareness Week will take place across Canada from May 21st to May 27th, 2011. The purpose of this initiative is to promote safe and responsible boating practices to the estimated 16 million recreational boaters in Canada while significantly reducing boating-related fatalities. (Statistics provided by the Lifesaving Society of Canada indicate 133 people died in boating-related incidents in Canada during 2010.)

To help increase awareness of Safe Boating Awareness Week, on May 21st, 2011, boating safety educators, marine enforcement officials, politicians, media and the general public will gather to establish a World's Record Inflatable Life Jacket Inflation called Ready, Set, Inflate. On one single across North America, all participants will inflate their inflatable life jackets and record their individual events to prove the size of the initiative and break last year's World Record. The purpose of this event is to raise public awareness of the new styles of lifejackets, both inflatable and inherently buoyant, and about general boating safety practices. Visit www.smartboater.ca and go to the "Ready, Set, Inflate" link for the location closest to you.

This year we have five key messages for boating safety:

...the importance of wearing a life jacket

...the dangers associated with drinking and boating

...the importance of taking a safe boating course

...ensuring that your vessel is safe and seaworthy

...the risks associated with a fall into cold water

This initiative is promoted by the Canadian Safe Boating Council (CSBC), a registered charity, and its members and partners from all areas of the marine community including boat and marine product manufacturers, boating education organizations, water safety and marine law enforcement sectors, www.smartboater.ca Canada's resource for boating information, Transport Canada Office of Boating Safety and the BC Marine Trades Association. The goal is to ensure that the millions of Canadians who head out on the waters in canoes and kayaks, sailboards and sailboats, fishing boats, personal watercraft, power boats and cruisers are equipped with the knowledge for a safe day on the water.

Please visit www.smartboater.ca and www.csba.ca for further information.

CN Tower Indroduces Extreme New Toronto Attraction

2011-05-09T17:06:00.002-04:00

photo courtesy of Canada News Wire

EdgeWalk will push thrill seekers to the edge

TORONTO, May 9, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Today, Canada's National Tower announced the imminent opening of its new extreme attraction, EdgeWalk at the CN Tower. The first of its kind in North America, EdgeWalk is the world's highest full circle hands-free walk on a 5 ft (1.5 m) wide ledge encircling the top of the CN Tower's main pod, 356m, (1168 ft , 116 stories) above the ground. This adrenalin-fueled experience will allow thrill seekers to walk the edge of one of the world's greatest man-made wonders beginning summer 2011.

"We think it's fitting that Toronto's newest attraction in 18 years should be at the city's most defining landmark," said Mark Laroche, President and CEO, Canada Lands Company, Owner and Operator of the CN Tower. "EdgeWalk is both thrilling and unique and will push visitors to their limits - literally and figuratively. This will be among Toronto's, if not the world's, greatest attractions."

Adventure lovers will walk "hands-free" in groups of six to eight, while attached to an overhead safety rail via a trolley and harness system. Trained EdgeWalk guides will encourage visitors to push their personal limits, allowing those who dare to lean back over Toronto, with nothing but air beneath them. Everyone who meets the stipulated requirements (height and weight parameters) will be welcome to experience these breathtaking open-air views of Toronto and Lake Ontario.

"During our 35th anniversary year we are excited to introduce visitors to the most exciting attraction in our history," said Jack Robinson, COO, CN Tower. "We're extremely proud of the records the CN Tower has held throughout the years, including our strong safety record. Our facilities and engineering team supervised the EdgeWalk project design and build to ensure that it is both exciting and safe."

Every aspect of EdgeWalk, from design, to build, to attraction logistics and operation has been developed with the utmost safety and security in mind. The entire experience will run 1.5 hours, with the walk itself lasting between 20 to 30 minutes.

EdgeWalk at the CN Tower will open to the public in summer 2011, with advanced ticket sales beginning by phone in June. Further information about tickets and pricing will follow. www.edgewalkcntower.ca

CN Tower

Defining the Toronto skyline, at a height of 553.33m (1,815 ft., 5 inches) , the CN Tower is Canada's National Tower, an engineering Wonder and Toronto's must see attraction visited by over 1.5 million people each year. 416-868-6937. www.cntower.ca

Canada Lands Company

CLC is a federal Crown corporation that optimizes the financial and community value obtained from surplus strategic properties no longer required by the Government of Canada. The company is self-financing and implements innovative property solutions to create strong and competitive communities wherever it operates. www.clc.ca

Spanish golf great Seve Ballesteros dies at 54

2011-05-07T09:00:00.002-04:00

May 7, 2011 - Feed from CBC Sports

Seve Ballesteros, a five-time major champion whose passion and gift for imaginative shot-making invigorated European golf and the Ryder Cup, has died from complications of a cancerous brain tumor. He was 54.

A statement on Ballesteros' website early Saturday said the golf great died peacefully at 2:10 a.m. local time, surrounded by his family at his home in Pedrena, in northern Spain.

Ballesteros, a two-time Masters champion and three-time winner of the British Open, was as inspirational in Europe as Arnold Palmer was in America, a handsome figure who feared no shot and often played from where no golfer had ever been. Read more story at CBC Sports

Parking Reform is Crucial ... Stop Subsidizing Parking Spaces! (Video)

2011-04-28T11:10:00.002-04:00

from TreeHugger.com
by Michael Graham Richard, Ottawa, Canada

This video is kind of a follow up to the previous short-film about the problems caused by underpriced parkings, and also the last instalment in the "Moving Beyond the Automobile" series (all of them are worth watching!). It highlights just how important parking reform is, and how alternatives to individual cars in cities aren't competing on a level playing field because of all the direct and indirect subsidies to cars via underpriced parking. Via our friends at Streetfilms.

MBA: Parking Reform from Streetfilms on Vimeo.

Real Birds Tweet on Twitter With a Peckable Keyboard (Video)

2011-04-27T10:43:00.002-04:00

from TreeHugger.com
by Stephen Messenger, Porto Alegre, Brazil

In this era of high-speed internet, smartphones and social-networking, keeping in contact has never been easier -- but in being so plugged-in, we run the risk of losing touch with the beautiful sounds of the world around us. As a sort of tongue-and-cheek response to this and the growing popularity of social Web sites, Voldemars Dudums of Latvia figured out a way to get nature's original tweeters to add their 'voice' online with their very own Twitter account by creating an enticingly peckable keyboard. Sure, the birds' tweets are mostly nonsense -- but their 2,654 followers don't seem to mind.

Voldemars created a special keyboard laden with unsalted bacon fat attached to the keys and a webcam for bird-lovers to enjoy the action online. In the Latvian town of Sarnate, freezing temperatures usually mean lean times for insect-eating birds -- so, with each tweet, the hungry birds are actually getting a much needed meal. Naturally, that was chosen as their Twitter username: @Hungry_Birds.

"Yes, one may say it is quite silly, but if you look at what people sometimes say on Twitter, then the tomtits' messages are still OK," Voldemars told Wired News. He also created a Web site, Birds on Twitter, to accompany the ornithological tweets... read more story at TreeHugger.com

Telus World Skins Game to Feature Nike Golf Stars at Fairmont Banff Springs

2011-04-26T12:15:00.002-04:00

Anthony Kim, Paul Casey and Stephen Ames first players named to field for 2011 edition of popular summer Canadian golf tradition

TORONTO, April 26, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Five Nike Golf athletes representing the world's largest sport brand will tee it up this summer when the TELUS World Skins Game returns to The Fairmont Banff Springs with Nike Golf as a premier partner.

The five-man field competing in the two-day event on July 25 and 26 features Nike Golf athletes on the PGA Tour including Anthony Kim, Paul Casey and Stephen Ames of Calgary. Kim and Casey will be first time participants in the popular Canadian golf tradition, while Ames will be competing in the event for the fourth time, including in 2006, the last time the TELUS World Skins Game was held in Banff. Two other players will be announced soon.

"Nike Golf has enjoyed a long-standing partnership with the TELUS World Skins Game, and 2011 represents a great opportunity to expand our involvement and feature a field of Nike Golf athletes who star on the PGA Tour," said Vitalis Gomes, director of marketing for Nike Golf Canada. "With the return of the event to The Fairmont Banff Springs, we're thrilled to be a part of one of Canada's top annual sporting events."

"I've heard so many great things over the years about the TELUS World Skins Game and look forward to the chance to visit Banff to be a part of it this summer," said Kim. "I know that the event has always attracted top fields, but the chance to be a part of an all-Nike Golf field this year will make it especially exciting for Paul, Stephen and me."

"We are most certainly pleased to be bringing the TELUS World Skins back to Banff, and equally excited to bring some of Nike Golf's biggest names to Alberta," said Monty Carter, senior vice-president, TELUS Enterprise Solutions. "The outstanding field of players against the backdrop of the majestic Rocky Mountains, coupled with the TELUS World Skins' annual support of causes important to the community, will make for an unforgettable event."

It's an especially exciting year for Nike Golf which is riding a wave of momentum with global tournament wins and game-changing products such as the Lunar Control shoe, worn by Masters champion Charl Schwartzel; the METHOD putter that has won 19 championships including three majors; and the revolutionary new 20XI premium ball with an innovative resin core that provides more distance off the tee and more spin around greens. Nike Golf, the No. 1 apparel brand in golf, is also celebrating the 20th anniversary of its DRI-Fit technology which modernized golf apparel with its moisture-wicking properties.

"Nike Golf has not only been an outstanding supporter of the TELUS World Skins Game, but of golf at all levels in Canada, and they play a crucial role in helping us bring this popular event to the country's best golf destinations each year," said Danny Fritz, vice-president and co-managing director of IMG Canada. "We look forward to an even more successful event in 2011 as Banff National Park celebrates the 100th Anniversary of organized golf in Banff."

Designed in 1928 by Canada's world-renowned golf course architect, Stanley Thompson, The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course is famous for its panoramic beauty and challenging layout set in the heart of Banff National Park. The course winds along the Bow River under the snow-capped peaks of Sulphur Mountain and Mount Rundle.

Owned and operated by IMG in Canada for 19 years, the TELUS World Skins Game has included many of the biggest names in the game including Jack Nicklaus, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples and Greg Norman. Players for the 2011 tournament will be announced in the coming weeks and regular updates will be posted on www.telusskins.com.

New Online Campaign Aims to Make Road Construction Season Safer

2011-04-26T09:05:00.002-04:00

Workers ask drivers #whatstherush?

TORONTO, April 26, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - As a new construction season kicks off, Ontario road workers have turned to Twitter and Facebook to get their message out to drivers. The province's road workers have launched an online public awareness campaign called "Safety: A Two Way Street" to "tweet," "text" and "Facebook" their appeal to drivers to slow down in construction safety zones.

"We're doing whatever it takes to get the message out," said Jeff Gill, a construction foreman working on Trafalgar Road in Oakville, where he says police issued over a dozen speeding tickets in less than an hour to drivers who ignored the speed limit. "Raising public awareness really is our only protection. All that's standing between me and two tonnes of oncoming steel, is a sign and a lot of nerve."

The public awareness campaign encourages road construction workers to share their stories, family pictures and their personal appeal to drivers on Facebook by clicking onto:

http://www.facebook.com/SafetyATwoWayStreet

http://twitter.com/#!/SafeRoadWorkers

"By taking drivers into our lives and living rooms through Facebook, we hope they'll see we're not just part of a road crew, we've got families too," said Michael O'Brien of LIUNA local 183. "We want to be able to thank drivers at the end of construction season for slowing down and keeping our families together."

In 2006, the Ontario Government amended the Highway Traffic Act, doubling fines for speeding in designated construction zones and making it an offence to disobey a traffic control person's STOP and SLOW sign. Between 2000 and 2006, 52 people were killed in road construction zones across the province. Since November, two workers have died after being struck by oncoming cars in road construction zones. They'll be remembered this Thursday, April 28 on National Day of Mourning in memory of all workers killed or hurt on the job in Canada.

"Ontario has among the safest roads in North America and we depend on the skills of our road workers to keep our roads safe," said Minister of Transportation Kathleen Wynne. "Our government has put tough legislation in place to reduce speeding in construction zones and this public awareness campaign will help to strengthen our government's road safety priorities."

The campaign, supported by LIUNA Local 183, and the Ontario Road Builders' Association urges the public to go online to support their efforts to make this a safer construction season for thousands of Ontario road construction workers.

"There are more than 2,100 collisions on average each year in road construction zones and that's just far too many," said Karen Renkema, spokesperson for the Ontario Road Builders' Association. "We're hoping this campaign will help get through to those drivers who continue to ignore the signs and fines."

LIUNA Local 183 is the largest construction union in North America, representing more than 31,500 construction workers and their families in the Greater Toronto Area.

The Ontario Road Builders' Association is the voice of the majority of road building contractors who build and maintain Ontario's provincial roads. In addition, ORBA boasts approximately 100 associate members who supply products and equipment to the industry. To learn more about ORBA go to www.orba.org.

Golf Industry Kicks-Off Season at Queen's Park

2011-04-21T15:19:00.001-04:00

Golf Associations Highlighting Industry's Economic Impact and Environmental Stewardship

TORONTO, April 20, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Ontario Allied Golf Associations (OAGA) kicked off golf season by visiting Queen's Park to increase awareness of golf role as a major driver of Ontario's provincial economy and draw attention to the responsible environmental practices of the industry.

"Golf is played by more Canadians than hockey," said OAGA spokesperson Don MacKay, "More than 2.3 million Ontarians, and 6 million Canadians, play golf each year, making it Canada's number one sport in participation and a great way to stay fit, get healthy, and have fun."

A recent report by OAGA found that Ontario's golf industry represents more than $5 billion in direct sales across Ontario every single year. OAGA members and their affiliates employ more than 123,000 Ontarians across the province. The golf industry contributes $1.2 billion per year in tax revenue to the various branches of government.

"Ontario's golf courses contribute a great deal to our economy," MacKay continued. "As people head out the links this summer we wanted to make sure that people are aware of the size and scope of our industry, and what we do to be responsible members of our communities."

Ontario's golf courses are leaders in environmentally sustainable golf course operations. They work extensively with government to meet or exceed provincial water and pesticide regulations, and are constantly researching technologies and techniques to reduce their environmental footprint. Indeed, the industry has spent more than $1.2 million in recent years to research more environmentally sustainable practices.

Ontario golf course owners and operators are at Queen's Park today to make Members of the Provincial Parliament aware of golf's demonstrated track record of being an honest and responsible partner to government in developing regulations that meet the needs of protecting the public and at the same time are in the best interest of ensuring a viable, thriving golf industry.

"Everyone benefits from smart regulations," said Mackay, "But smart regulations mean all stakeholders are actively consulted. We're here to do our part and help policy makers succeed building strong, sustainable regulations that allow our industry to be successful and focus on what it does best, providing a fun, physically-active and family-friendly pastime."

Get out your checkered flags Canada: Canadian Steve Meehan launches all-Canadian NASCAR team

2011-04-19T18:34:00.003-04:00

New team to kick off its run at this weekend's NASCAR Nationwide Series Nashville 300

TORONTO, April 19, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Today, Go Canada Racing, the newest all-Canadian NASCAR contender, officially starts its quest for NASCAR glory. Go Canada Racing is the only current NASCAR national series team with a Canadian owner, businessman Steve Meehan, and a Canadian driver, rising Canadian NASCAR star J.R. Fitzpatrick.

"Go Canada Racing brings together my two great passions: business and racing," said Meehan. "My success in business has been built on seeing where the right opportunities are and creating a great team of people to do the job. When I saw the opportunity to start a team, I brought in the right people, like J.R., and with their help I believe I can have the same kind of success in the racing world as I had in the business world."

Meehan's goal for Go Canada Racing is for it to become the first fully-Canadian team to compete full-time on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series tour - the preeminent series in North American motorsports. The team raced two weeks ago at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California, and will make its official debut this Saturday, April 24th, at Nashville Superspeedway.

"NASCAR has 7 million fans in Canada, many of whom watch the races every week on TV," continued Meehan. "This team will give the millions of Canadian fans a 'home team' to rally around, and I believe it's a great opportunity for Canadian companies to showcase their brand to this huge audience of Canadian race fans."

The team name, Go Canada Racing, and car number, 67, were both chosen to give the team an all-Canadian feel. The name was inspired by the cheers of "Go Canada" that Canadians are accustomed to hearing at sporting events throughout the country. The car number, 67, corresponds to 1867, the year of Confederation in Canada. This number is very significant for Canadians, and Meehan believes it will help Canadian NASCAR fans identify with his team even more.

In the driver's seat will be Canada's rising NASCAR star, J.R. Fitzpatrick. At age 18, Fitzpatrick became the youngest driver to win the CASCAR Super Series championship, and last year he finished second in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series championship. Over the last three years he has raced in nine NASCAR Nationwide events, and drove to a career-high finish of seventh at Road America and Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, both in 2010. The opportunity with Go Canada Racing is Fitzpatrick's first chance at a full-time ride on one of the premier stock car racing circuits in North America, an opportunity he has worked towards for many years.

"I've been racing since I was 15 years old and it has always been my dream to step into one of these cars full-time," said Fitzpatrick. "Steve has put together an outstanding team and given us the tools to succeed in this sport. We have a great crew, a great car, and a great team, and I'm looking forward to competing with some of NASCAR's best, starting this weekend in Nashville."

"We're looking forward to the addition of Go Canada Racing in the NASCAR Nationwide Series," said Steve O'Donnell, NASCAR's Senior Vice President of Racing Operations. "Canada is an important market for NASCAR, as demonstrated by our commitment to developing Canadian drivers in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. Now, the millions of NASCAR fans in Canada have a 'home' team to root for on NASCAR's national level."

About Go Canada Racing

Canadian businessman Steve Meehan founded Go Canada Racing in the spring of 2011. The result of Meehan's desire to bring together his interest in racing with his talent for business, Go Canada Racing is an all-Canadian team with a goal to bring the NASCAR Sprint Cup title to Canada. Prior to owning Go Canada Racing, Meehan was the Co-founder and CEO of Canadian investment firm Investment Planning Counsel, which boasted $15 billion in assets under management and more than 1,000 financial planners across the country at the time of his departure. For more information about Go Canada Racing, visit www.gocanadaracing.com.

Badass Electric Motorcycle Gets 300 Kilometers on a Charge

2011-04-19T10:06:00.002-04:00

Go Through Your Mid-Life Crisis Without Waking Up the Neighbours

from TreeHugger.com
by Michael Graham Richard, Ottawa, Canada

The Sora is a new electric motorcycle by Lito Green Motion, a Canadian company. It looks fairly badass and thanks to its 12 kWh advanced lithium-polymer batteries, it has an electric range of 300 kilometers (185 miles) and a top speed of 200 kph (124 mph).

If interested, you can reserve a test drive. Price is C$42,399 (ouch), but you might get tax incentives and rebates because this is an electric vehicle. It's not entirely clear on the site, but apparently deliveries should begin in October 2011.

Via Lito Green Motion

...read on for more specs and photos at TreeHugger.com.

Recycling Old Cell Phones Couldn't be Easier

2011-04-18T14:05:00.003-04:00

Canadians urged to make a difference during Earth Week 2011

OTTAWA, April 18, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - Recycle My Cell - Canada's free cell phone recycling program - is calling on Canadians from coast to coast to round up their old cell phones and accessories during Earth Week 2011 and do their part in protecting our environment.

Recycling cell phones couldn't be easier, and better still, it's free! The bilingual Web site - www.RecycleMyCell.ca and www.recyclemoncell.ca - allows consumers to simply enter their postal code to locate the 10 drop-off locations closest to them where their devices will be accepted, regardless of brand or condition. If someone can't visit one of the more than 3,500 drop-off sites across the country, the Web site also provides printable postage-paid labels to use for mailing their wireless devices, making recycling a wireless device hassle-free and at no cost to the consumer.

And just as important, the proceeds from the recycled devices contribute to some great charities at the same time. In the past two years alone, Recycle My Cell has raised close to $1 million for a variety of national and local charitable organizations.

Recycle My Cell is run by the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA), in conjunction with cell phone carriers and handset manufacturers, who have come together to raise awareness about the importance of cell phone recycling.

"There is no reason whatsoever that a cell phone should ever end up in one of Canada's landfills," said CWTA President & CEO Bernard Lord. "The wireless industry and its customers have proven that a no-cost-to-the-consumer formula for the responsible management of e-waste not only exists, but is thriving."

Visitors to the Web site will also find information about how to clear their device of all personal data before they drop it off at a recycling site. Site visitors with any additional questions can contact a representative at info@recyclemycell.ca, or call the toll-free support number at 1-888-797-1740.

All of the processors involved in the Recycle My Cell program have environmental management systems in place that guarantee accountability and knowledge of the environmental impacts associated with recycling. Processors associated with the program must be ISO certified or certified under Electronic Product Stewardship Canada's Recycling Vendor Qualification Program.

Recycle My Cell is made possible with participation from: Bell, GEEP, GREENTEC, LG Electronics, Lynx Mobility, Motorola Mobility, MTS, Nokia, ReCellular, Research In Motion, Rogers, Samsung, SaskTel, Sims Recycling Solutions, Sony Ericsson, TBayTel, TELUS, Videotron, Virgin Mobile Canada and WIND Mobile.

Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA)

CWTA is the authority on wireless issues, developments and trends in Canada. It represents cellular, PCS, messaging, mobile radio, fixed wireless and mobile satellite carriers as well as companies that develop and produce products and services for the industry. (www.cwta.ca)

Tee it up! Let The Games Begin in Waterloo Region

2011-04-15T08:38:00.001-04:00

570 News Apr 15, 2011

If there's an unofficial start time to golfing season in Waterloo Region, it's 8:00 o'clock this morning.

That's when the City of Kitchener opens up the Rockway Golf Course at the foot of Charles Street.

Todd Doering is the Golf Course Superintendent for both Rockway and Doon, and says both courses came through the winter as well as he's ever seen, thanks to a constant snow cover, and little ground frost to block melting run-off water from going through the soil.

Doering is one of the people 570's Mark Douglas talked to on Friday morning at Rockway.

New Eco-Friendly Golf Balls Made From Lobster Shells

2011-04-15T08:22:00.002-04:00

Photo credit: chispita_666/Creative Commons

from TreeHugger.com
by Care2 Causes Staff

This guest post was written by Miranda Perry, a writer for Care2 Causes.

A research team at the University of Maine has developed a new variety of eco-friendly golf ball. The golf balls are made from ground lobster shell, a refuse byproduct from Maine's lobster canning industry. They begin to dissolve in a little more than a week when submerged in water.

According to the Bangor Daily News, the eco-friendly balls are nearly indistinguishable from the common synthetic variety. "The weight's the same. The size is the same," said David Neivandt, the engineering professor who helped design the ball. "It flies straight when hit."

"It drives like a real golf ball, and it sounds like a real golf ball [when hit]," added Bob Bayer, executive director of UMaine's nonprofit Lobster Institute. "[But] if you look at a cross section, it's very pink."

Other biodegradable golf balls do exist, but they can be too lightweight to fly as well as a synthetic ball and too fragile to withstand a hit from a driver. Averaging a pricetag of $1 per ball, many golfers also find these alternative biodegrade-a-balls too expensive. UMaine's lobster balls can be used with both drivers and irons, and production costs for the lobster balls total less than 20 cents each.

A primary goal of the project aimed to help diversify Maine's lobster industry. By utilizing ground lobster shells, the golf balls will boost the value of a lobster fisher's catch and reduce waste at canning facilities. "What we're trying to do is take that waste stream and create a value-added product from it," Neivandt said... read more story at TreeHugger.com

Walk your way to a healthier you: Free walking program launches this weekend

2011-04-14T14:53:00.003-04:00

TORONTO, April 14, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The 9th annual Ontario Walks series launches this weekend, Sunday April 17th and runs until Sunday June 11th with its FREE walking program. Ontario Walks features walking and hiking events from the Shores of Lake Ontario to the forests of Ontario's Greenbelt.

"

Our mission is to inspire Ontarians to take charge of their personal and environmental wellness through walking," said Tom Fiore, Ontario Walks Director. "We believe that your health is your wealth."

As a proud sponsor of the event, the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) continues to lend its support for Ontario Walks and its aim of promoting active lifestyles.

"Ontario's doctors have a strong tradition of promoting healthy living and the Ontario Walks event is a great way of getting active," said Dr. Mark MacLeod, President of the OMA. "I'm pleased to see the continued success of this event and I hope more people incorporate some physical activity into their daily routine."

For a full list of scheduled walks and background information please visit www.ontariowalks.com

Crawford Lake Conservation Area (Rattlesnake Point) - 3115 Steeles Avenue West, Campbellville (aka Conservation Road)

Hwy 401 to Guelph Line south to Conservation Rd (aka Steeles Ave West ) Campbellville Ontario

When: Sunday, May 22nd
Start Time: 10:00 a.m.
Duration: 4 - 5 hours
Parking: Yes
Restrooms: Yes

Special Notes:
This is a Level 2 Walk - hiking boots required (running shoes not permitted!)

We suggest you bring a lunch.

Canadian Wildlife Federation Encourages Canadians to Join in the Walk for Wildlife

2011-04-13T09:06:00.003-04:00

MONTRÉAL, April 12, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) is urging Canadians to get out and go wild with the Walk for Wildlife, part of nationwide celebrations for National Wildlife Week, April 10 to 16, 2011.

Join the Canadian Wildlife Federation, the CWF Robert Bateman Get to Know Contest and IMAX®TELUS at the Montréal Science Centre on April 13, 2011 for the city's first Walk for Wildlife and Get to Know Contest launch. Students from local schools will explore the wildlife and habitats in the CWF gardens, meet the hosts of Hinterland Who's Who, get up-close-and-personal with some visiting animals from a wildlife refuge centre, and see the new IMAX® 3D movie Born to Be Wild.

Walk for Wildlife is a national campaign that encourages all Canadians to experience the wildlife and natural spaces in their area, then log their kilometres at NationalWildlifeWeek.com. As 2011 is International Year of Forests, this year's focus is forest conservation. The goal is to log enough kilometres to walk across Canada, creating national awareness about our forests and the wildlife that inhabits them.

"More than half of Canada is covered by forests," noted Wade Luzny, CWF CEO and Executive Vice-President. "As Canadians, we are extremely fortunate to be surrounded by some of the most intact forest habitats on the planet, which are home to a spectacular variety of wildlife."

The event also launches the 2011 edition of the CWF Robert Bateman Get to Know Contest ( gettoknow.ca). Launched by renowned Canadian wildlife artist Robert Bateman and now in its eleventh year, the contest encourages youth to get to know their wild neighbours outdoors, then submit artwork, writing, photography or video entries inspired by their experiences for the chance to win prizes. "The Walk for Wildlife and Get to Know Contest complement each other beautifully, and we're proud to be co-managing the contest this year," said Luzny.

Everyone in Canada can be a part of the Walk for Wildlife by hiking on a nature trail, strolling through a park or participating in any number of other outdoor activities that will allow them to connect with native animals, plants and habitats.

"By encouraging people to get acquainted with some of the iconic species and scenic places that exist right across the country, we want to inspire Canadians to an even greater commitment to wildlife and habitat conservation," said Luzny. "We want to leave a lasting legacy, not only for wildlife but also for our children."

National Wildlife Week was declared by Parliament in 1947 and is celebrated each year from Sunday to Saturday in the week of April 10, the birth date of Jack Miner, one of the founders of Canada's conservation movement.

For more information about National Wildlife Week and the Walk for Wildlife, visit NationalWildlifeWeek.com.

About the Canadian Wildlife Federation:

The Canadian Wildlife Federation is dedicated to fostering awareness and appreciation of our natural world. By spreading knowledge of human impacts on the environment, sponsoring research, promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, recommending changes to policy and co-operating with like-minded partners, CWF encourages a future in which Canadians can live in harmony with nature. For more information, visit www.cwf-fcf.org.

Calling all golf lovers: Scotland needs you!

2011-04-12T12:26:00.002-04:00

Photo Credit: Visit Scotland

TORONTO, April 11, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - With one place available for a golf lover to play in this year's Johnnie Walker ProAm Championship at Scotland's world famous Gleneagles Resort, VisitScotland, Scotland's official tourist board, is calling all golf enthusiasts from around the world to enter its Drive it Home competition, and be in for a chance to win this coveted place in the tournament.

From August 25-28 2011, Gleneagles will play host to golf's finest players as they compete in the Johnnie Walker Championship on one of the most challenging courses in the game, the PGA Centenary Course.

The lucky winner of VisitScotland's Drive it Home competition will experience a pilgrimage to the home of golf like no other.

The spectacular prize includes a four-night trip for two people to Scotland to attend the 2011 Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles as VIP guests and experience the course for real, with a place in the Johnnie Walker ProAm Championship.

For anyone passionate about golf, this is an incredible opportunity to get close to the best players in golf; to watch and golf with the pros in Scotland, where golf was born.

With the launch of Drive it Home and the search for a player to represent all golf lovers around the world, VisitScotland is inviting golfers to participate for the chance to fulfil this dream of a lifetime.

To enter visit www.driveithomescotland.com, from 05 April - 06 May 2011

Ontario Seatbelt Laws Turn 35 Years Old

2011-04-09T11:16:00.001-04:00

Give Yourself the Gift of Survival by Buckling Up Every Time

AURORA, Ontario, April 8, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - It's been 35 years since seat belt laws came into effect in Ontario (1976), and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are as committed as ever to seat belt compliance as they get set to launch the 2011 Spring Seatbelt Campaign.

The province-wide campaign will run from April 13 - 23, 2011. During that time, the OPP will be stepping up enforcement throughout the province to ensure that motorists and passengers buckle up.

Using a seat belt is the single most effective way to reduce the chance of injury or death in a motor vehicle collision. Yet tragically, countless fatalities and injuries relating to seat belt use have continued to occur needlessly each year over the past 35 years.

Last year (2010) on OPP patrolled roadways, 89 people lost their lives in collisions in which lack of seatbelt use was a causal factor and 4,200 people were injured for the same reason.

So far this year (2011), 7 people have died in collisions in which lack of seatbelt use was a causal factor and 855 have been seriously injured. Compared to this same time last year, 13 died and 913 were injured.

The OPP will be focusing their efforts on child restraints during this campaign to raise awareness about the need to properly restrain children in a vehicle. A properly used child seat reduces a child's risk of injury in a crash by as much as 75 per cent, yet many child car seats are incorrectly used or improperly installed.

When used correctly, a booster seat provides 60 per cent more protection than a seatbelt alone. In a collision, children using seatbelts instead of booster seats are three and a half times more likely to suffer significant injury, and four times more likely to suffer head injury. OPP detachments regularly run child car-seat safety clinics and the OPP are encouraging everyone to contact their local OPP Detachment or their local police service for more information.

"In 1976 Ontario became the first province to require all drivers and passengers to wear a seat belt. After all these years OPP officers across this province are just as committed to ensuring that occupants buckle up", said OPP Deputy Commissioner Larry Beechey, Provincial Commander, Traffic Safety & Operational Support.

Make sure you do your part as a driver. Buckle up first and then make sure all your passengers and children are properly secured.

QUICK FACTS:

A driver who is not wearing a seatbelt is over 40 times more likely to be killed in a crash than one who is properly buckled.

The annual Spring Seatbelt Campaign is a partnership between the OPP, Ontario Police Services, the Ontario Ministry of Transportation and other road safety partners.

LEARN MORE:

For more information about Seat Belt Laws, go to: Ontario Law on Seatbelt Compliance

For more information about proper child restraints, go to: Ontario.ca Smart Love

For OPP information on Driver Safety tips go to: OPP.CA/ Driver Safety Tips

PGA Championship of Canada Returns with Mr. Lube as Title Sponsor

2011-04-01T09:50:00.003-04:00

Bryn Parry, the Canadian PGA's #1 ranked player

ACTON, Ontario, March 31, 2011 /Canada NewsWire/ - In their second major news release of the week, the Canadian PGA announced today that the PGA Championship of Canada will make a triumphant return this summer as part of the 2011 Canadian PGA National Championship Schedule thanks to the support of Mr. Lube Canada as the title sponsor of the historic event.

"Today is a historical day for the Canadian PGA, our 3,700 Members and the Canadian golf industry as a whole," stated Glenn Cundari, President of the Canadian PGA. "Mr. Lube has quickly become one of the greatest partners of the Canadian PGA and Canadian golf. We are thrilled to be working alongside them with the PGA Championship of Canada and their Tournament for Life Pro-Am."

The PGA Championship of Canada sponsored by Mr. Lube will be contested June 14- 18 at Cottonwood Golf & Country Club in Calgary, Alberta with a total purse of $100,000. Conducted as a match play championship, the PGA Championship of Canada will take the Association's 64 highest ranked players directly off the Canadian PGA Player Rankings to create what will be the greatest showcase of Canadian PGA talent each and every year.

"We are extremely pleased to be expanding our partnership with the Canadian PGA," says Stuart Suls, President & COO of Mr. Lube Canada. "Through our shared objectives and commitment to improving men's health, both organizations will have the opportunity to leverage our networks to create one of the highest profile events in the country to support Prostate Cancer Canada. We realize that our partnership together has been made possible through the mutual desire to be leaders in our communities and the country in the field of golf."

The event will get underway with the Mr. Lube Tournament for Life Pro-Am, an annual charity event in support of prostate cancer research. The first Pro-Am was held in Toronto in 2010 and has now expanded to Calgary. This one day tournament will help to increase the profile of our partnership and work with Prostate Cancer Canada. As a partner of both the Canadian PGA and Mr. Lube Canada, Prostate Cancer Canada helps to battle this disease by building awareness and generating funds for research.

Mr. Lube, Canada's leading quick lube provider in the automotive routine maintenance category, adds the PGA Championship of Canada to its portfolio after securing the title sponsorship rights to the Canadian PGA Seniors' Championship in 2010. With two Canadian PGA National Championships under its umbrella, Mr. Lube now becomes one of Canadian golf's biggest partners.

"We really couldn't be happier to strengthen our relationship with an incredible partner like Mr. Lube Canada," said Gary Bernard, Executive Director of the Canadian PGA. "It was the goal of the Canadian PGA to create an event that would bring our greatest Canadian PGA players from the around the country to compete for the P.D. Ross trophy in an exciting format - I would say we've accomplished both."

Bryn Parry, the Canadian PGA's #1 ranked player off the recently announced Canadian PGA Player Rankings, will have the honour of going into the PGA Championship of Canada sponsored by Mr. Lube as the number one seed as he tries to add his name to the legendary P.D. Ross trophy.

"I thought it was pretty incredible last week when I received the phone call telling me that I was the #1 ranked player in the Canadian PGA, but to find out that the PGA Championship of Canada is coming back just takes it to a whole new level," said Parry, a two-time champion of the Canadian PGA Assistant's Championship. "To have the opportunity to play for this trophy and go into the event as the number one seed will be pretty special and something I'm already excited about."

The PGA Championship of Canada was first played in 1912, making it one of the oldest professional golf championships in the entire world. A storied list of past champions included: Moe Norman, Al Balding, George Knudson, Dan Halldorson, Dave Barr, Bob Panasik, Stan Leonard, Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, Lanny Wadkins, Ray Floyd and Steve Stricker.

About the Canadian PGA:

Established in 1911 and the second oldest professional golf association in the world, the Canadian Professional Golfers' Association is a non-profit Association comprised of 3,700 golf professionals across the country. The Association's mandate is to develop, promote and support our Members as experts in the game and business of golf and, in so doing, serve both its Members' needs and those of the golfing public through the Association's varied programs and events. The Association consists of the National Office located in Acton, Ontario and nine Zone Offices across the country. For more information please visit www.opga.com

About Mr. Lube Canada:

Mr. Lube Canada is Canada's leading quick lube provider in the automotive routine maintenance category with 101 locations across Canada. Founded in 1976, Mr. Lube Canada is celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2011 and has served over 35 million customers in its 35 year history. Headquartered in Delta, BC, the company also has a regional office in Mississauga, Ontario to support its national franchise network. For more information visit www.mrlube.com