Month: May 2015

Sisters find each other by chance in university writing class

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sister-2

Sisters Katie (left) and Lizzie

Two sisters who had never met have found each other by chance in a creative writing class at Columbia University in New York. They were born to the same teenage mother but adopted separately and raised in different parts of the U.S. Lizzie Valverde and Katy Olson, both in their 30s, met in January 2013 on the first day of the class at Columbia University, the New York Times reports. When the students introduced themselves, Olson was shocked to hear Valverde tell of her background, which matched many details of her own, according to the report. Though they grew up under very different circumstances, one in New Jersey and the other in Florida, both women decided to move to New York around the same time and pursue their careers. Through her research, Olson knew she had a sister but not much more. Valverde knew their mother had a rocky past and a criminal record but had no idea she had a sister. Valverde will graduate Monday. Her sister and their birth mother, Leslie Parker, are expected be in attendance.

Thrilling Preakness cranks up Triple Crown excitement

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=93&v=9yqKZBSYTAY&w=500&h=290

American Pharoah won the Preakness Stakes on Saturday, becoming the 14th horse to win the first two legs of the Triple Crown since 1978, the year of the last Triple Crown winner. In pouring rain, American Pharoah claimed the race in dominating fashion. He was the third Preakness favorite to start from the rail since 1950. No horse had won from the rail since 1994. At the Belmont Stakes on June 6, American Pharoah will try to become the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978. Courtesy Preakness

Are there plans to record shift of Thomas Elgie house?

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elgie moveAs of Saturday, May 16, the Thomas Elgie home at 262 Bessborough Drive is up on beams suitable for its short trip to the front of the property where it has stood for something like 170 years. The last time we looked at the home this work seemed far off. That was three weeks ago. The pioneer home is scheduled to be renovated into a single family dwelling on one of three lots to be carved from the property, which overlooks Talbot Park to the north. The work has gone on so far quite quietly. There does not appear to be a foundation waiting for the pioneer residence. But we can surely expect the work to be done imminently. It is reasonable to ask if there are plans set for the making of a proper record of this moment in the history of Leaside.

Loblaws employees in Ontario vote 97% in favor of strike

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Union employees at Loblaws stores like the one at 320 Moore Ave. have voted 97 percent in favour of strike action if they cannot settle their wage and working condition negotiations with the grocery firm. The strike votes at locals 175 and 633 took place after the union broke off talks on May 5. There does not appear to be a strike deadline. The two UFCW locals represent 28,000 grocery workers employed at Loblaws Great Food and Superstore, Zehrs, Zehrs Great Food and Superstore, and Fortinos. The locals say the main issues are wages, work schedules, benefits and they’re seeking improvements and limits on third party providers. Local 175 president Shawn Haggerty says with the strong strike vote, the workers are sending a clear message they support their negotiating committee. Negotiations are scheduled to resume on May 26.

Mike Bradwell calls it a day after 6 seasons with Argonauts

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Jun 26, 2014; Toronto Argonauts wide receiver Mike Bradwell poses for a photo. Mandatory Credit: USA TODAY Sports

Mike Bradwell

Leaside’s Mike Bradwell has announced his retirement from the CFL Toronto Argonauts after six seasons as an excellent wide receiver and during which he helped the team win the Grey Cup. The news is on argonauts.ca. The story is also reported in Sports Illustrated which guesses that the decision “was likely a bitter-sweet one”  He said: “For the past six years I have been able to live out my dream for the Toronto Argonauts. I want to thank all of the amazing Argos fans and everyone in the organization, especially Scott Milanovich and Jim Barker, for giving me the opportunity to play CFL football. I am grateful to all of my teammates for making this game and this league truly special. Most importantly, I want to recognize my family and friends for their tremendous support throughout my career. I look forward to starting the next chapter but I will always cherish my time in Double Blue,” Bradwell said. The 28-year old first became involved with football in his last year at Leaside High School, before playing with McMaster University at the CIS level. He went on to be selected 13th overall by the Argos, in the second round of the 2008 CFL draft. Bradwell’s best season was arguably his rookie year, when he caught 25 passes for 350 yards and a touchdown. He finishes his career with 116 receptions, 1,240 receiving yards and six touchdown catches. Argonauts head coach Scott Milanovich spoke highly about Bradwell: “On the field, Mike was a selfless player who helped us win football games with his versatility, intelligence and toughness. SI notes that Bradwell clearly has a future since he is a civil engineer and a part-time model. No doubt many guys would be glad to trade with Bradwell in the macho man department. Below is a video done about a year ago of Aliya-Jasmine Sovani, Mike Bradwell and their dog, George Hamilton

Fired Hydro man sends apology to Shauna Hunt

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CityNews is reporting that Shawn Simoes has apologized to reporter Shauna Hunt. Simoes was fired by Hydro One for his behaviour when he and others harassed Ms Hunt as she was broadcasting outside a soccer game. She confronted them, posted a video on YouTube and the story found international interest. The apology from Mr. Simoes is in the form of a written note which Ms. Hunt said she was happy to accept. CityNews quotes her as saying  “I appreciate Shawn reaching out with what I felt was a very genuine apology.”