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8- The Oakville Beaver Weekend, Saturday December 22, 2007 www.oakvillebeaver.com Armed gunman steals drugs from pharmacy Halton Police are asking for the public's help in finding a man who committed an armed robbery of the River Oaks Medical Pharmacy on Tuesday. Police said at 2:45 p.m. a white male wearing a Burger King `King' mask entered the pharmacy and demanded narcotics from the employees at knifepoint. "Eventually he went in behind the counter and essentially took what he wanted," said Detective Sergeant Kevin Maher, Halton Police. "He grabbed quite a large quantity of narcotics, about 24 bottles." DAVID RITCHIE / SPECIAL TO THE BEAVER SNIFFING FOR CLUES: The Halton Police K9-unit was called out to track down the trail of an armed gunman who stole narcotic drugs from the River Oaks Medical Pharmacy on Tuesday. In total the man made off with approximately $1,300 worth of mainly OxyContin, which police describe as the current narcotic of choice on the street. The man left on foot and police are continuing their investigation to locate him. This is not the first time the highly addictive narcotics within a pharmacy have been targeted for theft, with two Oakville men being arrested in October in connection with pharmacy robberies that occurred in Halton, Peel, Barrie, Toronto, Hamilton, Waterloo and Guelph over the last five years. "There is a very strong demand for OxyContin on the streets," said Maher. "My understanding is that it's similar in effect to heroin." Police describe the man who robbed the River Oaks Medical Pharmacy as 5foot-10 with military-style black and brown hair, a slender build and cleanshaven. He was wearing faded jeans, a beige sweater and a black hoodie with white pinstripes. No one was injured during the robbery. Anyone with information is asked to call Halton Police at 905-825-4747 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). The Importance of Routines During the Holidays By Nikki Taylor, Parent Education Manager With Christmas less than one week away, it is often a time of chaos and excitement for children and families. Maintaining some routine in your child's day can help your child manage this busy time more happily. Routines are important for all of us, but particularly for your child. They give children a sense of security, predictability and order at a time when things can seem overwhelming. Routines need to be simple, and easy for anyone to do. There may be times where someone else will need to care for your child. Your caregiver should be able to carry out the child's routines in your absence. Here are some handy tips to think about as you enjoy the holiday season: ·Try to keep some of the key routines like bedtime and mealtime as consistent as possible. ·Be aware of your child's energy level and stress level. Often children are not sleeping as much or as well as usual. This is a time when sensitivity to our child's needs and coping abilities needs to be considered......often. ·Be aware of your own stress level, and make sure there is regular down time in your routine for everyone. ·Use pictures, timers etc. Find tools that help you and your child to get through the routines successfully. For example use pictures of all the steps for getting dressed. Timers for teeth brushing can be helpful too! ·Inform your children ahead of time about changes to the routine. This will help them to adapt more easily. ·Remind children in a positive way, about expected behaviour and notice when they are doing it right! In times of distress, disruption or just a busy life, routines can give your children familiarity, security and a sense of control. Think about and plan great routines for your child. You will all reap the rewards! We hope you have a very safe holiday season, filled with joy, laughter and lots of time with family. Gege's Pizza & Restaurant PIZZA · PASTA · WINGS · SALADS · FAMOUS HOT ITALIAN SANDWICHES FAMILY SPECIAL 1 Extra Large Pizza Pick-Up Or Delivery 12 Slices 3 Toppings 2 Free Dipping Sauce $ 134 Speers Road (west of Kerr Street), Oakville Minimum order required for delivery. Lic. L.L.B.O. 1 1 sr r TM 99 Plus+ Tax Extra Toppings 1.85 905-844-4711 Upper Oakville Shopping Centre Oakville's Original Lifestyle Shopping Centre ENTER ONLINE TO WIN A PAIR OF DIAMOND EARRINGS FROM LONDON GOLD A RETAIL VALUE OF $495.00 The Centre is a registered charitable organization, that has provided programs and services for families since 1980. Our services are designed to support all families in their parenting role. We also offer early learning opportunities for children 0-6 years. Visit Our Website And Enter For Your Chance to Win! London Gold is giving away 1 pair of diamond studs .30 total weight set in 14kt white gold. For more information on programs, parenting and services offered by the Centre please contact us at 905-849-6366 or visit our website at www.oakvilleshops.com 905-849-4722 · Upper Middle Road and 8th Line, Oakville www.op-cc.ca