Beach Metro Community News June 27, 2023

Canada Day

celebrations to include fireworks and a parade

EAST TORONTO will have numerous ways to celebrate Canada

Day this coming Saturday, July 1.

There are fireworks displays planned for Ashbridges Bay Park in the Beach and Stan Wadlow Park in East York, picnics, barbecues and the annual East York Canada Day Parade.

East York’s parade will the 66th annual, and it begins on July 1 at 10:30 a.m. at Dieppe Park (145 Cosburn Ave.) and heads eastwards along Cosburn to end at Stan Wadlow Park (373 Cedarvale Ave.). The parade route follows Cosburn to Woodbine Avenue, then heads north to Trenton Avenue and eastwards towards the park.

The parade is part of the East York Canada Day Festival which goes from 11 a.m. until the start of the fireworks at night on July 1 at Stan Wadlow Park.

The festival features fun activities, games, a kids midway, food and entertainment. There will also be a craft beer market hosted by Muddy York Brewery..

Slated to perform at the Canada Day festival on the Main Stage in Stan Wadlow Park are children’s entertainer Professor Picklethorn; the Meteor Heist Band; the East York All Stars Blues Band; children’s entertainer Dan the Music Man; The Dave Dunlop Quintet; Bad Luck Woman and her Misfortunes; and Trainwreck. There will also be the East York’s Got Talent event on the Main Stage.at 2 p.m.

The opening ceremonies for the festival are at noon at the Main Stage and the MC is Joe Motiki.

The day concludes with the traditional Canada Day fireworks display at the park starting at approximately 10 p.m.

The East York Canada Day Festi-

Continued on Page 2

East Toronto Pickleball Association calling for more courts, long-term city plan, as game’s popularity grows

By Alan Shackleton

CONSIDERED NORTH Ameri-

ca’s fastest growing sport, pickleball’s popularity across Toronto is leading to calls for more courts and facilities for people to play the game.

Formed two years ago, the East Toronto Pickleball Association (ETPA) sees first-hand the immense popularity of the sport along with the challenges of finding spaces and places to locate courts

“The number one issue is that the space available is far exceeded by the number of people wanting to play. It’s becoming more and more popular,” said Mary Beth Denomy, chair and co-founder of the ETPA.

Pickleball has been described as a cross between tennis, badminton and ping-pong. It can be played on both indoor and outdoor courts, and features either two or four (doubles match) players.

The court the game is played on is the same size as a badminton court, but the net is lower like a tennis

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court. Instead of long-handled and stringed-racquets like those used in tennis or badminton, pickleball is played with a plastic racquet or paddle (more like what is used in ping-pong but bigger) and the ball is made of plastic with holes in it to control speed and force.

One of the ways the ETPA is working with the City of Toronto to overcome the shortages of places to play is by becoming creative and finding locations for the courts at what would be otherwise unused or under-used facilities.

For example, a number of outdoor hockey rink pads have had pickleball court lines put on them, which allows for five courts to be set up along the length of most rinks. The nets and their stands are removable so the rinks can still also be used for sports like box lacrosse or ball hockey when needed.

Local outdoor rinks now housing pickleball courts are Kew Gardens, Greenwood Park, Jimmie Simpson Park and Dieppe Park. Indoors, the ETPA also plays at the Birchmount

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Community Centre, just north of Kingston Road.

Denomy (who is also president of the Beach Metro Community News volunteer executive) said the ETPA is appreciative of the city’s efforts to add those extra courts on the rinks for this outdoor season, but said they are short-term solutions when it comes to meeting the growing needs of the sport across all of Toronto. She specifically thanked Toronto-Danforth Councillor Paula Fletcher and Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford for their advocacy and support in getting the courts set up on the outdoor rinks.

However, as the sport’s popularity continues to increase, purposebuilt facilities for pickleball are going to be needed to meet the growing demand, she said.

“The long-term goal is to build and develop specific pickleball courts in the years to come so we wont’ have to be playing on hockey rinks and tennis courts,” she said. Two pickleball courts can be put on one full-sized tennis court and also

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courts can be set up on indoor curling rinks in the off season. Those are other options for finding more space on a temporary basis at cityowned sites.

“We are looking for purposebuilt facilities with four to eight courts, and that’s an important part of this. These would be run and built by the city, and the city would benefit from the high interest in the sport,” said Denomy.

Such facilities could also help attract high-level professional and amateur tournaments, along with players, fans and media, to Toronto. The top pro pickleball player is considered to be 16-year-old Anna Leigh Waters who competes in the highly competitive Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) with tournaments ongoing mostly in the United States that draw big crowds.

A purpose-built facility is being eyed by the City of Toronto at Centennial Park in Etobicoke, said a recent news release.

“City staff continue to assess de-

Continued on Page

PHOTO: ALAN SHACKLETON

East Toronto Pickleball Association players were on the courts set up at the Kew Gardens rink last Wednesday. The sport’s growing popularity is leading to a need for more locations for pickleball courts across all of Toronto.

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BYELECTION to determine Toronto’s next mayor took place on Monday, June 26, and the winner was not known as of the press deadline for Beach Metro Community News.

Fireworks at Ashbridges Bay, Stan Wadlow Park slated as part of upcoming Canada Day celebrations

‘Canada’ from Page 1

val is run by a group of dedicated volunteers with the support of the Government of Canada, The City of Toronto, the East York Foundation, Muddy York Brewery, O’Connor’s Meat Market, Sultan of Samosas, and Blue Door Realty Group Inc.

For more info on the July 1 events in East York, please visit the website at www. EYDC.ca

Ashbridges Bay fireworks

In the Beach on July 1, there will be the City of Toronto’s fireworks display at Ashbridges Bay, foot of Coxwell Avenue at Lake Ontario, starting at 10 p.m. sharp. The Ashbridges Bay fireworks display will last 14 minutes.

Large crowds are expected to attend the display, which can be viewed from anywhere along the Boardwalk. Toronto police are reminding those planning on attending that the use of fireworks on public properties including beaches, parks, parkettes, and sports fields is illegal.

Due to the large crowds and localized road closures, police are urging people to find alternate methods

other than driving to get to the Beach on the night of July 1. The following TTC bus routes serve Woodbine Beach Park and Ashbridges Bay Park: 22A Coxwell and 92A Woodbine. The TTC plans on adding extra buses to those routes on July 1.

Q107 Canada Day Picnic at Woodbine Park

Also in the Beach this weekend will be the annual Q107 Canada Day Picnic at Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen St. E. – northeast of Lake Shore Boulevard East and Coxwell Avenue.

The Q107 Canada Day Picnic will feature food, fun, music and more on the night of Friday, June 30, and during the day and into the evening on Saturday, July 1. There will be food trucks and a beer garden presented by Muskoka Brewery.

The fun starts on June 30 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. with bands Reckless Bryan (tribute to Bryan Adams) at 6:30 p.m.; Jukebox Heroes (tribute to Foreigner) at 8 p.m.; and Keep the Faith (tribute to Bon Jovi) at 9 p.m.

On July 1, the picnic goes from noon to 11 p.m. Bands slated to perform are After the Gold Rush (tribute to

Neil Young) at noon; Monkey Wrench (tribute to the Foo Fighters) at 1:10 p.m.; Aeroforce (tribute to Aerosmith) at 2:15 p.m.; and Pearl Jamming (tribute to Pearl Jam) at 3:45 p.m.; Sheer Heart Attack (tribute to Queen) at 5:15 p.m.; the AC-DC Show –Canada (tribute to AC-DC) at 6:45 p.m.; Floydium (tribute to Pink Floyd) at 8:15 p.m.; and Desire (tribute to U2) at 9:45 p.m.

For more info on the Q107 Canada Day Picnic, please go to www.q107canadadayfest. com

Neighbours Together on Canada Day in Riverdale Park East

The Neighbours Together on Canada Day 2023 celebration takes place in Riverdale Park East on Saturday, July

1.

The fun starts at 11 a.m. in the park (550 Broadview Ave., south of Danforth Avenue). Most of the activities will be centred around the area at the south end of the park, near St. Matthew’s Clubhouse at 450 Broadview Ave. The event continues until 3:30 p.m.

There will be food, children’s activities, presentations by local community groups and entertainment. Slated events include a Lion Dance, singing and dancing, a martial arts demonstration, a barbecue, a Children’s Corner, and a Canada Day birthday cake.

The main organizer of the Canada Day celebration in Riverdale Park East is the Toronto Chinese Chamber of Commerce of East Toronto. Toronto-Danforth Councillor Paula Fletcher is a co-organizer.

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11 Canada Day celebration

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11 on Dawes Road is inviting residents to a Canada Day celebration on Saturday, July 1, from noon to 7 p.m.

Taking place on the Legion grounds at 9 Dawes Rd., the celebration will feature live music from 2 to 6 p.m. Slated to perform are Ronnie

and The Corvairs.

The event will also feature a bouncy castle, a dunk tank, face painting, refreshments and a barbecue.

Each person will receive one free hamburger or hot dog and one piece of birthday cake, while supplies last.

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 10 Canada Day celebration

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 10, 1083 Pape Ave., hosts a Canada Day celebration on July 1 from 1 to 6 p.m.

Everyone is invited to come on out to a fun filled Patio Party and celebrate Canada.

There will be an outdoor BBQ, games, jelly bean guess, and raffles for amazing prizes. DJ Jose will be playing tunes from 1 to 3 p.m.; followed by Karaoke with Bill will be from 3 to 6 p.m.

Canada Day Kick-off with the Two Fours at The Hideaway in the Beach

Local band The Two Fours will play their Second Annual Canada Day Long Weekend Launch Party on Friday, June 30. Performing upstairs in The Blue Room at The Hideout, 2282 Queen St. E., the group will kick start the weekend with a musical mix of rock, roll, roots, country, blues, and random genres.

The band’s lineup will be Susan Litchen, sax and flute; Wally Hucker, bass; Mark Porter, drums; and special guest local guitar wizard Sean Turner. All four sing lead and background vocals. Their two-hour show, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., will feature two sets of highly danceable tunes. Adding to the party atmosphere will be door prizes of mounted and framed classic 45 RPM records. Free on street parking is available.

All tickets to the show include an entry for door prize draws. Tickets at $5 in advance, $10 at the door, are available at the bar downstairs at The Hideout, or by contacting the band, at 416690-5442, or thetwofours@ eol.ca (Only 70 tickets are available.)

Malvern C.I. scholarship in honour of author Peter Robinson established

By Jack Skinner

MALVERN COLLEGIATE

Institute will be presenting a new award named The Peter Robinson Writing Prize to one graduating student.

Staff from the English Department at Malvern will nominate one student from the graduating class each year, who they think is the most passionate and talent-

ed writer. Realtor Melanie Wright from the Wright Sisters is sponsoring the award for the next 10 years, by adding $1,000.

The prize was named after Beach author Peter Robinson, who passed away last October at the age of 72. Robinson was most well known for writing The Inspector Banks series of books.

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PHOTO: DONNA BRAYBROOK

Lulu, with owner Ramona, celebrates being named the Best Costume winner at the Slobberfest event held in the Beach, near the Leuty Pavilion, on Saturday, June 17. Slobberfest is an annual celebration of “all things dog” hosted by Community Centre 55.

Graduation celebrations in 2023, and remembering the Class of 1973

Photo above: Members of the Riverdale Collegiate Class of 2023 celebrated with The King (well, an Elvis impersonator) recently in Greenwood Park. Celebrating the graduation together were (from left) Gwyneth, Sabrina, Zalea, Elvis (Dorian Baxter), Bryndoven, Madelyn, Manaal, and Julia.

Photo above: Fifty years later, members of the Notre Dame Catholic High School Class of 1973 got together earlier this month to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their graduation. On hand for the photo taken on the front steps of the Malvern Avenue school on June 15 were: Peggy Sheridan, Susan Crupi, Michelle Kelleher, Carmel Fitzpatrick, Christine Puddister, JoAnne Lyons, Maryanne Pollock, Kathleen Connacher, Janice Walker, Cathy Hayes, Terry Sevigny, Anne Doherty, Theresa Tohill, Rosey Cowan, Karen Lang, Betsy Cirinna, Anna Marie Catalano, Margaret O’Brien, Beverley Rice, Ann-Marie Canning, Rosaria Cacciatore, Joanne Dunn, Mary Aguanno, Rose Marie Giltenan and Elaine Coughlin. Special guests for the photo were former teacher Julie Buchowski, sitting in front row with pink bow; and former principal Sister Lucille Corrigan, sitting in front row with white flower.

PHOTO: DONNA BRAYBROOK

PHOTO: DONNA BRAYBROOK

Pooja,

restaurants and businesses

Local restaurant contributes to Beach Interfaith Lunch Program, aims to inspire others to do so as well

By Amarachi Amadike Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

AN EAST Toronto restaurant owner is calling for more support from local businesses and residents to help tackle the city’s food insecurity issues as an increasing number of people continue to rely on food banks and meal programs for their daily needs.

After donating 50 meal bowls to Beach United Church’s Thursday Meal Program earlier this month, Mehfill Indian Cuisine is hoping that other establishments will follow suit.

The restaurant, which opened its first East Toronto location in the Beach last December, reached out to Beach United Church as “a token of appreciation” for the community it serves after receiving a warm welcome to the neighbourhood, according to Mehfill Indian Cuisine’s Director of Marketing Pooja Mondal.

“Having two other locations in Brampton and Etobicoke, we weren’t sure if

the location would work out for us because it was a completely new area,” said Mondal.

“But the response was pretty great over the months so we just thought of doing something charitable that will help the community.”

Mehfill’s owner, Prafulla Upabhyay, decided to approach Beach United Church considering its close proximity to the restaurant.

His restaurant donated three options of meal bowls to the Thursday program

– Palak Paneer Rice Bowl (Spinach Cottage Cheese); Chhole Rice bowl (Chickpea); and Paneer Makhni Rice Bowl (Creamy Indian Cottage Cheese curry).

“We were really delighted to see it was a success,” said Mondal. “We are thinking of doing something [like this] once a month.”

Mondal said that Mehfill will be looking to donate more food to other similar programs in the community and urges neighbouring businesses to do the same.

“If a business is able to help the community, it’s always something that will come back to them in a different light,” she said.

“More businesses should feel encouraged to do something similar. If everybody does their own bit, that’s a lot of community support.”

Beach United Church’s meal program, which started on May 25 and runs all through the summer, provides lunches for those in need thanks to public donations.

The lunches typically consist of sandwiches, fruit and a baked treat, served every Thursday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the church which is located at 140 Wineva Ave.

The program is part of a larger initiative, The Beach Interfaith Lunch Program, which takes place at different church locations in East

Toronto throughout the week.

The drop-in lunches provide nutritious meals for low-income earners and those experiencing homelessness.

Along with Thursday’s offerings from Beach United Church, community members in need also have access to Corpus Christi Catholic Church’s (16 Lockwood Rd..) meals on Mondays; St. Nicholas Anglican Church (1512 Kingston Rd.) on Tuesdays; Beaches Hebrew Institute (109 Kenilworth Ave.) on Wednesdays; and Kingston Road United Church (975 Kingston Rd.) on Fridays. All programs run from October to May.

Although the Interfaith Lunch Program doesn’t run year-round, Beach United independently continues to provide support with help from local businesses such as Mehfill Indian Cuisine.

Other businesses providing support for the program include Mauser Packaging Solutions which donates food grade containers for large batch preparation of soup and stew; COBS Bread Bakery (1975 Queen St. E.) which provides bread for sandwiches; and Starbucks (1960 Queen St. E.) which provides coffee.

Anyone who would like to show support to the meal program by financially donating can do so at https:// beachunitedchurch.com/ donate-now.

If community members would like to actively participate by volunteering, visit https://beachunitedchurch. com/about-us/contact-us.

-- Amarachi Amadike is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for Beach Metro Community News. His reporting is funded by the Government of Canada through its Local Journalism Initiative.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Prafulla and Hardik from the Mehfil Indian Cuisine restaurant donated to the Beach United Church’s Thursday Meal Program recently. The meal program is part of the Beach Interfaith Lunch Program. Mehfil Indian Cuisine is hoping to inspire other local

to contribute to the program.

Amarachi Amadike is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for Beach Metro Community News. His reporting is funded by the Government of Canada through its Local Journalism Initiative.

Local Journalism Initiative

Expanding Portlands gas plant will only add to climate crisis

AngelA Bischoff Director, Ontario Clean Air Alliance

The middle of a climate crisis is a strange time to be expanding a major gas-fired power plant on the Toronto waterfront, but that is exactly what Premier Doug Ford’s provincial government is planning to do with the Portlands gas plant.

The plant’s owner, publicly owned Ontario Power Generation (OPG), is preparing to profit from the province’s poor energy planning by ramping up usage and expanding the plant by 50 megawatts to fill the gap left by the shutdown of aging nuclear reactors, and the Ford government’s tearing up of more than 750 renewable energy contracts.

Even though Toronto City Council has said “no” to more gas burning at Portlands twice, Ontario Energy Minister Todd Smith has failed to follow through on his promise to respect municipal wishes when it comes to expanding or building new gas plants. As usual, the Ford government simply doesn’t care what the people of Toronto think.

In fact, the province is set on increasing

gas burning in Ontario by 500 per cent by 2035, including by firing up the Portlands more often, and making it capable of burning more gas. By abandoning all efforts to increase renewable energy production, slashing energy efficiency budgets and ignoring the implications of climate change, the Ford government has created the perfect conditions for a huge surge in fossil gas burning right on our waterfront.

The Portlands gas plant is already the largest single source of greenhouse gas emissions in the City of Toronto, and the largest source of nitrous oxides that help create smog. The city’s ambitious climate plan – TransformTO – does not support more gas burning at the Portlands plant.

Toronto’s efforts to help businesses and city residents reduce their carbon footprint will be swamped by a massive increase in gas burning at the Portlands plant. So while the city and its residents work hard to do the right thing for our climate, the province and OPG are pulling in the opposite direction – doing everything in their power to make climate change worse.

Meanwhile, the Independent Electric-

ity System Operator (IESO) is sitting on a report that it commissioned that shows that there is no need for new or expanded gas plants. The Dunsky Report explains in detail how Ontario can forego more gas burning by embracing rooftop solar; load controls that shift electricity demand from peak to off-peak periods; stationary batteries; and bi-directional chargers that allow our electric vehicles’ batteries to provide power back to the grid during peak demand hours.

And a report just out from the RBC Climate Action Institute makes much the same point: Ontario can save at least $500 million by embracing smart thermostats and AI-enhanced HVAC systems instead of expanding Portlands or building new gas plants. This is a report from the bank that is Canada’s biggest lender to the fossil fuel industry, not something issued by environmental organizations!

The fact that the Portlands gas plant is used most often on hot summer days when air quality is at its worse just adds insult to injury. Burning gas to meet peak demand is, of course, a completely outdated solution, as both Dunksy and RBC point out in their

reports. We can also avoid the need to burn gas to meet our electricity needs during hot summer days by importing waterpower from Quebec. While Ontario’s demand for electricity peaks during hot summer days when our air-conditioners are running full out, Quebec’s demand for electricity peaks during cold winter nights. As a result, Hydro Quebec has a huge surplus of hydro-electric generation capacity available for export during the summer.

Our federal government could stop this backwards plan for more gas burning with a stroke of its pen. The feds are about to release their Clean Electricity Regulations (CERs), which are to be the mechanism for delivering on their promise to create a zerocarbon electricity system across Canada by 2035. We are calling for strong CERs which will prohibit increasing gas-fired generation capacity in Ontario effective immediately; and require Ontario to move to a net zerocarbon grid by 2030. The Trudeau government can finally trigger effective climate action with strong regulations that stop the Portlands expansion and set the stage for its phase out – and a climate-safe future.

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Letters to the Editor

Football will be back at Birchmount Park C.I. thanks to realtor Al Sinclair

My name is Chris Rhora and I am a teacher and the football coach at Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute.

We did get a little press lately regarding our football team and helmet issues, and I wanted to send a follow-up to that story.

The quick story is that the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) has quite strict rules regarding football helmets, including re-certification every three years and full replacement every 10 years. This past year we were in both situations, even though we had not played any football in the past three years due to COVID-19.

Unfortunately the expense of new helmets, approximately $20,000 was not in the budget and the result was no football here at the

school. We did run a small in-house touch football league and that was met with great success, but the students still pined for Canadian football.

We had a very successful Junior rugby season this year, but that also prompted many more questions about football (in addition to the constant questions from all students all year along).

Conversations with the Parent Council were positive, especially with Anna Sidiros (Co-President of the Council) and she began leading the “charge” for funding. As time went on, I jumped the gun a little and began a GoFundMe in order to raise more funds.

This was short-lived though as TDSB rules were against that option. The pulling of the

GoFundMe led to different actions though.

The Toronto Star ran an article, along with some pictures, explaining our plight on Saturday May 27. That afternoon realtor Al Sinclair, of the Al Sinclair Team, called my cell phone. We chatted briefly about our helmet situation and his daughter being a former student, and then Al (with his wife in the background) asked where he could send a cheque.

He told me that he wanted to cover the entire $20,000! To say that I was speechless is an understatement. I was absolutely blown away with his generous offer. I have known Al for many years, and he is well known in our community and from his TV appearance with Hot Property, but never thought that

any one person would be so ready to step up and help our school and our community in such a big way.

The Al Sinclair Team donation means that the Birchmount Panthers will be on the football field in September, and will be fitted with safe, and certified equipment. We have already had a team meeting and the boys are ecstatic!

In addition to Al’s generous offer, I have received many calls and emails from our local residents, and I wanted to acknowledge everyone that has offered to help. This only goes to show what an incredible community we live in and how fortunate we are. Let’s Go Panthers!

C. Rhora

Remember the importance of our free and fair elections

Re: ‘Remember the price that was paid so you are free to vote’, In My Opinion, Beach Metro Community News, June 13.

I want to thank Beach Metro Community News editor Alan Shackleton for the excellent and conscientious article.

Sharing the ultimate sacrifice that local men like Murray, Kidd and Jones paid panged my conscience deeply to vote on June 26 for a new mayor.

We must all work through the circus element of the election and focus on the importance, the freedom, and the privilege to have free and fair elections.

My father, Russell Norman Gladstone, was stationed in England from 1939 to 1945 as part of the Canadian forces.

He later crossed the channel in June 1944 following D-Day.

Unlike Murray, Kid and Jones, although wounded

twice, he was lucky enough to return home to Toronto and went on to marry and have six children.

Russ was a musician, and we are fortunate that a lo-

cal newspaper (photo above) published his serenade to a nurse on his return in 1945. His sentiments would have echoed the In My Opinion piece in the strongest terms.

Thank you for providing your readers with such a timely and important article.

Long-term local parking solutions needed

Re: ‘Temporary solution for parking woes in Wheeler Ave. area’, News, Beach Metro Community News, June 13.

The parking scarcity problem remains despite the temporary changes you reported in the June 13th edition.

It is helpful that Beaches-East York Councilor Brad Bradford has been able to temporarily free up some parking spaces in the Wheeler construction area.

This doesn’t replace the space lost

because of construction, but it is a step in the right direction.

However the problem remains -there is not enough legal parking in the area.

In a few months when the Wheeler project is finished, and the construction equipment is gone, residents can again use their parking spots.

Unfortunately, there still will not be enough legal parking unless we act now to address the long term pressures.

The group of Concerned Citizens in

the Beach was formed to give a focus to residents’ parking challenges and find solutions.

We have written Councillor Bradford with our suggestions and asked that he work with us to engage the issue.

We need long-term solutions that provides parking for both residents and visitors.

And we are convinced there are solutions to this issue.

David Frame

Return to the Beach and piles of dog poop

I have just returned from a trip to China.

There are lots of interesting things to see and beautiful places to visit but I would still prefer to live in the Beaches. That doesn’t mean there aren’t things we can learn from the Chinese.

The cleanliness of their streets, parks and subways for example.

Even smokers look for bins to put out their cigarettes rather than throwing their butts on the ground.

By comparison, on my first walk on the beach after my return I saw lots of

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bottles and cans tossed on the ground and I nearly stepped on three piles of dog poo.

We can do better.

David Beatty

You can also send them by regular mail to our office at Beach Metro News, 2196 Gerrard St. E., Toronto, ON, M4E 2C7. Or if you are in our neighbourhood at Main and Gerrard, please feel free to drop off your letter personally.

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PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Reader Martin Gladstone sent in this photo of newspaper coverage of his father Russell, with guitar, returning home from the Second World War.

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CANADA DAY

Community Calendar

JUNE 30: Hello Summer Popsicle Party at City Cottage Market, 1427 Kingston Rd., 3-6 p.m. School’s out for the summer and that calls for a celebration! Tommy Lioutas Real Estate and City Cottage Market are treating all kids to a FREE Happy Pop on the last day of school. Bring your friends!

JULY 1: Canada Day at RCL Branch 11, 9 Dawes Rd., Club Room and parking lot 12 noon-7 p.m. Open to the Community - come join the fun! Face painting, bouncy castle, dunk tank, entertainment by Ronnie & The Corvairs, BBQ: 1 Free Hamburger or Hot Dog and 1 piece of cake per person - while supplies last! (Canadian Heritage: “this project brought to you in part by Gov’t of Canada”)

JULY 1: East York Canada Day Parade begins at Dieppe Park, 10:30 a.m. followed by a full day of programming at Stan Wadlow Park, featuring children’s activities, rides and games, vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment! We welcome back Joe Motiki as MC for the day. Award winning Muddy York Brewery will once again host our beer garden. The day ends with a spectacular fireworks display at 10 p.m. provided by the City of Toronto. Info: www.eycdc.ca

JULY 1: Canada Day 2023 at RCL Todmorden Branch 10, 1083 Pape Ave., 1-6 p.m. Come on out to a fun filled Patio Party and celebrate Canada! Outdoor BBQ, Games, Jelly Bean Guess and Amazing Raffles Prizes. Raffle tickets may be purchased starting June 12 at the clubroom bar during normal operating hours. DJ Jose will be playing tunes from 1-3 p.m. Karaoke with Bill will be from 3-6 p.m. All welcome!

JULY 1: Fireworks at Ashbridges Bay, 10 p.m.

JULY 1: Neighbours Together on Canada Day Community Celebration at Riverdale Park East near St. Matthew’s Clubhouse, 450 Broadview Ave., 11 a.m.3:30 p.m. Indigenous land acknowledgement & dance, Lion dance, multicultural dance and singing, martial arts demo, community info tables, BBQ, children’s activities, Canada Day cake. Performances begin at 12:30 p.m. Organized by Toronto Chinese Chamber of Commerce of East Toronto and Councillor Paula Fletcher.

JULY 14: Celtic Folk Concert and Pub Night with The Alehouse Heroes band at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, 904 Coxwell Ave., 7-9 p.m. Featuring The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, The Chieftains, The Pogues, U2, Chris Stapleton, and many more. “An evening of foot-stomping entertainment”, Irish whiskey raffles + 50/50 draw. Wheelchair accessible. Tickets $20/person. To purchase tickets, contact st.luke@ca.inter.net or call 416-421-6878, extension 21. Proceeds for repairs to church. (The church facility supports many community activities.)

JULY 18: Bus Tour (one-day) to Canada’s Wonderland. Pick-up/drop-off locations are Main Street subway station / Stan Wadlow / O’Connor & Bermondsey and so on. Enjoy rides, thrills, water slides and so on. It will be an enjoyable day tour for everyone. Bus-only price: $68 per person. Register online at https://forms.gle/arQUZR5S9kPoD1Hm9. Info 647-351-6699, EastYork@Expediacruises.com

SEPT. 24: Grupo BIMBO Global Race at Ashbridges Bay Park, 3k/5k/10 race. Family Event (3k walk/run)/ Competitive (5k/10k race). Donation of 2 slices of bread for every registrant. Info: bimboglobalrace.com BEACHES MENTAL WELLNESS GROUP meets each Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St. at Swanwick. Info: www.mentalwellness. help. Or join us most nights of the week on Zoom. Go to: https://www.meetup.com. Ask to join us: Mental Wellness Peer-to-Peer Support-Groups

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS. If you or a family member are struggling with gambling, Gamblers Anonymous is there to HELP. Call: 1(855) 222-5542 or visit www.gatoronto.ca

A A at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St., Saturdays 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Info: 416-691-1113

AL- ANON at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St., Wednesdays 7:15 p.m. Alateen members are welcome to attend. Info: 416-691-1113

COMMUNITY TAKEAWAY LUNCH - Thursdays at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., 11 a.m.-12 noon. Hunger does not stop for the summer, so we at Beach United are planning to continue to provide a takeaway lunch that will include a sandwich, a piece of fruit, and a baked treat. This is welcome to anyone in need of a nutritious meal. We would also very much appreciate your support towards our food programs - donate online at beachunitedchurch.com

CHURCHES

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST NORWAY ANGLICAN CHURCH, 470 Woodbine Ave. Welcome to St. John the Baptist Norway! We are a growing community which enjoys the Anglican expression of the Christian faith. We gather to connect with one another and worship God on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. In-Person/Livestream and at 5 p.m. In-Person for The Table, a contemporary service followed by a simple community supper. We

have a Food Pantry open on Monday mornings from 10 a.m.-12 noon. Info: stjohnsnorway.com, 416-691-4560 ST. AIDAN’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, 2423 Queen St. E. at Silver Birch welcomes you to join us for Sunday worship at 9:30 am throughout the summer in person or on Zoom. Our energetic, active church offers varied opportunities for spiritual growth, vibrant Children’s and Music programs, Youth activities, and a strong commitment to action on social justice and environmental issues. Info: www.staidansinthebeach.com, 416-691-2222 BEACHES PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 65 Glen Manor Drive. (S of Queen). We are an inclusive and affirming congregation in the heart of the Beach. BPC has strong commitments to community service and social justice issues. We provide non-perishable food for those in need through our Free Food Pantry located outside the church building. Our Refugee Commitee has been in operation for many years helping families and individuals arrive and start a new life in Canada. On the 2nd Wednesday of every month we host a Coffee Outreach from 1 - 3 pm. An opportunity for people in the neighbourhood to gather for coffee, snacks and fellowship. For a link to the services and more info please visit our website at www.beacheschurch.org or call 416-6995871. Minister: The Reverend Katherine McCloskey FALLINGBROOK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 35 Wood Glen Rd. (at Kingston Rd.). Please join us on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Angela J. Cluney. All are welcome. There is a welcoming service. Join on Live Stream via Facebook or access Live Stream on our church website. For details about Wee Folks, Book Club, Tea Time, Hobby Circle and Bible Study, email fboffice@rogers.com or call 416-699-3084. See: www.fallingbrookpresbyterianchurch.com. Easy access by TTC.

ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 794 Kingston Rd., 2 blks. east of Main St. Weekend Masses: Sat. Vigil at 4:30 pm, Sun. 9 & 11 am. Weekday Masses with Rosary: Tue.Fri. Doors open and Rosary begins at 7:45 am followed by Mass at 8:15 am. Confessions every Sat 3:45 to 4:15 pm or by appt. Info: https://stjohnsto.archtoronto.org/, 416-698-1105

BIRCHCLIFF BLUFFS UNITED CHURCH, 33 East Rd. (Warden Ave. & Kingston Rd.) Sundays @ 10:30 a.m. We are a diverse, open and inclusive Christian community. Join us on Sunday mornings. Our Music program offers special monthly Music Sunday services on the last Sunday of each month. Info: 416-694-4081, www.bbuc.ca

ST. SAVIOUR’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, 43 Kimberley Ave. (at Swanwick Ave.). All are welcome. Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. - both in person and via Zoom. Call the church for info: 416-699-6512. Outside Blessing Box - Take what you need, give what you can. Info: www.stsaviours.ca, www. facebook.com/churchwithreddoor/. Sermons available on Proclamation! Podcast (now available for free on iTunes).

SALVATION ARMY EAST TORONTO, 107 Cedarvale Ave. Sunday Morning Worship, 11 a.m. Other activities include Over 60 program, Ladies Fellowship, Community Lunch, Men’s Breakfast, Scrapbooking, Bible Study. Venue is wheelchair accessible. Info: 416-467-7416

GRANT AME CHURCH, 2029 Gerrard St E. All are welcome every Sunday from 11:00 AM to worship service inperson, Facebook, ZOOM, or YouTube livestream with Pastor Kenesha Blake-Newell. Join us on our prayer line every Wednesday from 11:00 AM-12 Noon. Bible study on ZOOM every Wednesday at 7 pm. We provide non-perishable food, fresh fruits and vegetables on Fridays from 3:30 to 6:00 PM at our food bank located in our fellowship hall. Registration is required. New clients must present identification for each household member. Links and info: www.grantame. com; email:grantamechurch@yahoo.ca; 416-690-5169

SCARBOROUGH BAPTIST CHURCH, 1597 Kingston Rd. (east of Warden). We invite you to join us on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. for Worship In-Person and on Zoom, and Sunday evenings at 6 p.m. on Zoom only. Info: www.scarboroughbaptist.ca or 416-698-1973

KIMBOURNE PARK UNITED CHURCH, 200 Wolverleigh Blvd. All are welcome! •Sunday Worship Service: 10:15am in-person & via Zoom (lawn services July 2 - August 27)

•Artisan Market: July 9, 11am-4pm - Vendors Wanted!

•Free Community Meal: July 16, Dine-In 11:30am-12:30pm & Take-Out 12:15-12:45pm (3rd Sunday of every month) •Volunteers Needed - Start Today! •Games Night: 5-10pm (Second Sat of every month) pizza & pop for purchase •Garden

Together: Wed@6pm & Sun@12pm (volunteer based)

•Food Drive: Donation baskets outside main doors 24/7-given to Nourish East End Food Bank •Buzzin Bees Summer Camp Ages 5-12 (July 31 - Aug 4) half days •For all inquiries contact the Church office (Mon/Tues/Fri): 416-461-7200, office@kpuc.org •Event and programming info: kpuc.org

Celebrate summer with these recipes

JAn MAin

is an author, cooking instructor and caterer janmainskitchen@ yahoo.ca

CELEBRATE SUMMER

with a variety of lively flavours and colours of just picked asparagus and strawberries.

As the season progresses, feel free to substitute the best fruit and vegetables of your preferences: beans, zucchini, baby carrots, tomatoes, peaches, plums and pears….

Tips: Before cooking asparagus, break off the tough stems and save for soup stock if you wish. Cook asparagus in boiling water for 2 minutes and serve immediately!

Both fish and asparagus require little cooking; watch the cooking times.

Remember when slicing strawberries, they have an attractive heart shape if cut from the curved top to the point. Make the most of this heart shaped appearance to add to the salad or dessert. Enjoy every mouthful of tantalizing summer!

Summer Salad with Lemon Honey Vinaigrette

Lemon Honey Vinaigrette

1 clove garlic

1 tsp (5 mL) salt

1/4 tsp (1 mL) fresh black pepper

1 cup (250 mL) vegetable oil

1/2 cup (125 mL) fresh lemon juice

2 -3 tbsp (45 ml) liquid honey

1 tbsp (15 mL) Dijon mustard

In a food processor combine garlic and salt until garlic is finely chopped. Add pepper, oil, lemon juice, honey and mustard and puree until smooth and well blended. Pour into a jar and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

Salad Mixture

8 cups (2 L) seasonal greens

1 lb (500 g) fresh asparagus, or as season progresses, beans or zucchini

1 red pepper, finely sliced 1 cup (250 mL) fresh thinly sliced strawberries

1/2 cup (125 mL) toasted almonds, walnuts or pecans

1 cup (250 mL) thinly

sliced fennel or celery

Snap off tough ends of asparagus and cook stalks in boiling water 2 minutes. Drain and cool ready to add to the salad.

In a large serving platter or bowl, toss spring greens, asparagus, peppers, strawberries, almonds and fennel together.

Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve – may be assembled the night before. Just before serving, toss with just enough dressing to lightly coat leaves about 1/2 cup (125 mL). Serves 6 to 8.

Rainbow Trout en

Papillote

Although this is a simple recipe, it’s my favourite way of cooking fish equally good with salmon or Arctic Char.

The term “en papillote” simply means, in paper, specifically parchment paper.

The paper makes a disposable container for the fish( helps with clean-up) and keeps the fish moist during cooking too.

This easy to cook recipe can be assembled and refrigerated several hours before popping into a 425 F (220 C) oven.

When I want quality fish, I go to Seaport, 1101 Victoria Park Ave. just south of St. Clair. Give Marilyn or Lorne a call at 416-755-9960 to order your fish and have it ready when you go to pick it up.

4 trout fillets

1/4 cup ( 75 mL) olive oil

2 tsp ( 10 mL) grated

lemon rind

1/4 cup (50 mL) fresh

lemon juice

Sea salt and fresh black

pepper

Sprigs of tarragon or dill

Preheat oven to 425 F (220 C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper allowing enough paper to encase fish fully.

Arrange fish in a single layer In baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with lemon rind and drizzle all over with lemon juice. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and arrange dill or tarragon on top.

Fold parchment paper over fish to encase in a neat package. Refrigerate until ready to bake. May be assembled several hours in advance.

Bake 15 minutes or until fish flakes easily and is opaque. Serve fish immediately with tarragon aioli.

Tarragon Aioli

Not only is tarragon aioli a perfect complement to fish, it is a tasty dipping sauce for asparagus or other blanched

vegetables and cruditees of all sorts.

3/4 cup (175 mL) light mayonnaise

1 clove, crushed garlic

1 juice and rind of 1

lemon

2 tbsp (25 mL) finely chopped, fresh tarragon

1/4 cup (50 mL) olive oil

In a measuring cup, stir together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon rind , juice and fresh tarragon. Combine well. Stir in olive oil.

Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve with fish. Keep several days. Makes 1 cup (250 mL)

Lemon Curd for Mousse, Ice-cream and Fillings

One of my favourites! This is one of the simplest, most important recipes to have in your repertoire. It is a must for lemon mousse, ice-cream, tart and cake fillings. It is so delicious, you can stand at the kitchen counter and eat it by the spoonful!

And, lemon mousse or icecream is the ideal companion to fresh Ontario strawberries!

2 eggs

1 cup (250 mL) granulated sugar

1/2 cup (125 mL) fresh lemon juice or lime juice

1 tbsp (15 mL) grated lemon rind or lime rind

In a stainless- steel saucepan over medium high heat, whisk together eggs sugar and fresh lemon juice until well combined. Whisk in lemon rind and continue whisking vigorously until it starts to bubble and is thickened.

Immediately remove from heat; scrape into a stainlesssteel bowl and cool it quickly over a bowl of ice. Curd thickens as it cools.

Mousse, Ice-cream or Fillings

You can now whip a cup (1 cup/250 mL) whipping cream in a deep bowl such as a plastic yogurt container with an electric mixer until cream is stiff (whipped cream stands in stiff peaks).

Fold whipped cream into cooled lemon or lime curd, then spoon into small pretty bowls for a quick mousse or freeze for an ice-cream. The mousse may also be used as a “dipping sauce” for the strawberries or other fresh fruit.

Finally, this lemon mousse makes a delicious filling for tortes or tarts garnished with fresh strawberries. Yum!!!!

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Sense of community, fun, has pickleball players filling local courts

‘East’ from Page 1

mand by measuring indoor attendance, tracking requests for new courts and evaluating additional locations for the inclusion of pickleball courts,” said the June 14 news release.

“Pickleball court dimension lines will become standard for community centre gyms, and opportunities for pickleball will be considered whenever outdoor sports courts are being repaired or developed. The city will engage with community tennis clubs operating on city parkland to explore opportunities to support pickleball at those clubs.”

Councillor Fletcher prepared the motion at Toronto Council that has led to the commitment by the city to investigate ways to find more locations for pickleball.

“None of this would have been possible without the hard work and advocacy of the East Toronto Pickleball Association,” said Fletcher in a news release. “I also

want to thank city staff for working so quickly to respond to the growing popularity of this great sport.”

Beach Metro Community News caught up with the ETPA and players of “this great sport” last week during a Wednesday morning session at the Kew Gardens rink. Every court was full of players in doubles matches while others were waiting for their turns to play.

For the vast majority, pickleball’s greatest attraction is the social and communitybuilding aspects of the sport. There is a level of competition and skill as a player progresses in the game, but the number one reason members of the ETPA were out was to have fun.

“The club is important and a great source of community…It’s a lot of opportunities for fun and social interaction,” ETPA president Tom Keane said right after he had finished playing a doubles match last Wednesday.

“All are welcome. I just

encourage everyone to grab a paddle and come out. We’ll help you learn to play and we’ll even supply the paddle,” he said.

The ETPA has almost 400 members and 2,000 Facebook followers.

Keane’s own journey to pickleball began during the COVID-19 pandemic

“I was doing renos on my house during COVID, and my neighbour told me to come out and play pickleball. I kept putting it off but one Saturday morning he wouldn’t take no for an answer. He said, ‘Tom, let’s go.’ And away I went, and the very next day I was out looking to buy a pickleball paddle.”

Keane, 58, said the sport is accessible to people of all ages, athletic abilities and body types. It is not a sport just for former high-level tennis or squash players who are getting older but want to continue with a racquet sport.

“I had absolutely no ten-

nis or racquet sport background,” said Keane. “It’s accessible for everyone and it’s easy to learn how to play. It’s a sport that’s easy to learn, but hard to conquer and become a master in.”

While the sport has been tagged as one played by seniors in retirement communities, Keane said the ETPA has players of all ages.

“A lot more younger people are playing and enjoying it and adding to it. They quickly become impressed by the older players.”

One younger ETPA player who can attest to that is Derrick Sarwan, 35. He said he was watching the pickleballers at the Kew rink last July and ended up playing. “I was walking by and looked in to see what was going on and they were very friendly and asked if I wanted to learn more about it.”

Sarwan pointed out the sport has different levels of competition but can be readily played by all ages. “One of the things I like is that

you can be playing with a 90-year-old or a 20-year-old, and that’s different from other sports where that’s not going to happen.”

Living in the Beach, it’s not surprising that another sport Sarwan enjoys is beach volleyball. However, he said at the moment he is finding he prefers pickleball.

“If I had to choose between pickleball and volleyball now, I’d take the pickleball.”

Sarwan said in one of the earlier games he played he earned the infamous honour of being “pickled” which meant he lost 11-0. He also lost to a player much older than him, which made him realize the sport has nuances beyond speed and power.

“I think in my second game we lost 11-0 to two older gentleman and that was very humbling.”

His advice to all younger residents is to not think pickleball is something only for their parents or grandparents.

“I would say give it a try,

and just don’t judge the athletic ability and what you might see as seniors…you will be surprised and also humbled.”

Sarwan stressed that the key to pickleball, and what makes it appealing to so many, is the philosophy of “community first and competition second. You can just show up and find yourself able to play.”

Keane agreed and said that pickleball is becoming an international community that shares that welcoming attitude and focus on fun at clubs around the world.

“You can carry your paddle anywhere in the world and say I’d like to show up for a game somewhere, I’d be welcomed and playing within a few minutes – even if I didn’t have a paddle. Everybody’s friendly and about enjoying the game,” said Keane.

For more info on the East Toronto Pickleball Association, please go to https://easttorontopickleball.ca

We Sell Ontario

R.H. McGregor’s 100th anniversary event highlighted school’s community connection

By Shreya Viswanathan

R.H. MCGREGOR Elementary School in East York recently celebrated its 100th anniversary.

One of the oldest elementary schools in Toronto, R.H. McGregor first opened in 1922, and has since remained in the same location on Mortimer Avenue just west of Coxwell Avenue.

Over the past 100 years, the school has created lasting impacts on generations of students and teachers.

One teacher, Mrs. Diane McKinlay, who re-visited R.H. McGregor for its 100th anniversary open house and celebration on May 27, was a long-time Kindergarten teacher at the school from 1991-2016.

“I’ve seen quite a few [students] today, and have been giving them big hugs,” she said at the open house.

“I’m still in touch with a lot of them, and a lot of their families.”

In her 25 years, McKinlay impacted countless youth in the community of East York.

The longevity of these student-teacher bonds symbolizes the value R.H. McGregor Elementary School brings to the community of East York.

Many of the school’s alumni remain connected to it.

Kindergarten teacher at R.H. McGregor Elementary School for 25 years, Diane McKinlay attended the school’s recent 100th anniversary celebrations.

Camille is a mother who went to the 100th anniversary celebrations, and also attended the school from 1989 to 1993. She lived just a couple blocks away from the school at the time, and remembered having a positive experience with the friends and teachers that she met.

Camille still lives in East York today, and her daughter

is now starting school at R.H. McGregor.

The continuity of attending R.H. McGregor for Camille and her daughter, demonstrates the loyalty that generations of students feel towards the school.

I attended R.H. McGregor as a student living in East York, and met friends and teachers that I have kept in

touch with throughout my life.

At the 100th anniversary, I was excited to see past teachers, coaches and classmates of mine. My excitement was mirrored in the faces of all those I met. It was a joyful reunion for former students and staff alike.

At the celebration the school had “quarter-century rooms” that showcased memorabilia from different generations of students and staff. There were exclamations of surprise and pleasure in these rooms when former students recognized a painting or a photograph, which had been carefully preserved.

Outside the school, there were performances by current students of R.H. McGregor.

The intermingling of generations of students, parents, grandparents, teachers, retirees and young students at the 100th year celebration is a reflection of how R.H. McGregor brings the community together, and is a living beacon for new generations of students.

— Shreya Viswanathan is a student at Monarch Park Collegiate Institute. Before attending high school, she was a student at R.H. McGregor Elementary School.

Local students earn Ontario honours in Royal Canadian Legion’s Remembrance Day contest

By Jessica Shackleton

AN AWARDS ceremony was held at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11 in East Toronto on Sunday, June 18, to recognize winners of the annual Remembrance Day Literary and Poster Contest.

Students from the area received certificates for excellence in public speaking, posters, and poem and essay writing. The prizes are divid-

ed by age groups of Primary, Junior, Intermediate, and Senior. Awards are given from the local Legion Branch level all the way to the national level.

The Royal Canadian Legion sponsors the contest each year for students. Entrants create and submit their work to their local Legions during the Remembrance period in November.

“The youths who participate in these contests assist the Legion in one of our primary goals – fostering the tradition of Remembrance amongst Canadians,” said the Royal Canadian Legion.

More than a dozen students received their awards at the June 18 ceremony. They were presented the awards by Branch 11’s Youth Education Chair Helen Pearce, Treasurer Gord Pearce, and Zone Manager Craig Oliver. The ceremony was organized by volunteers of Branch 11.

Two of the award recipients from Branch 11’s zone were also recognized at the Provincial level.

Grade 11 Notre Dame Catholic High School student Jessica Athanasyar won first place in Ontario for her poem. She heard about the contest from her Grade 10

history teacher Ms. Yarema.

This was her second year entering the Legion’s Remembrance Day contest.

“I love writing so I thought why not?” said Athanasyar.

“It’s important, and I didn’t know about it at all.”

After meeting Legion members, Athanasyar said she felt inspired and encouraged. “These people deserve everything and have my heart. It’s dedicated to them,” she said.

Grade 3 Crescent Town

Elementary School student Angelina Pramanik won second place in the colour poster contest at the Provincial level. She also heard about the contest in school.

“I wanted to show respect to the people who fought,” said Pramanik of why the contest is important. Her older brother also received an award and they both enjoy creating art.

Pramanik and Athanasyar won four awards each at the June 18 ceremony.

PHOTO: SHREYA VISWANATHAN

PHOTO: JESSICA SHACKLETON

Jessica Athanasyar, front left, and Angelina Pramanik, front right, were honoured with Provincial level awards in the Royal Canadian Legion’s Remembrance Day Literary and Poster Contest. The awards presentation was held at Legion Branch 11 on Dawes Road on Sunday, June 18. Presenting the awards were Zone Manager Craig Oliver, right, and Branch 11 Treasurer Gord Pearce.

A look back at Bracken Ave.

By David Van Dyke

Thank you to Francie Czerwinski for sending me a photograph (above) of your family home on Bracken Avenue! I believe the original photo was taken in the 1960s, and I strongly believe renovations have taken place since then. Do you, like Francie, have an old photo of your house you’d like to share with our readership? Please contact me at gdvandyke61@gmail.com

Author Kinmond Smith shares love of detective fiction in his debut novel

By Nafisat Alao

A STONE for the Fox: A Jonathan Birnam Novel is the first fiction book by Beach writer Kinmond Smith.

Released in late May, the book tells the story of a young man who is disappointed with his life and goes through a series of experiences that help him rediscover his past.

Smith, who grew up in North York’s Armour Heights neighbourhood, has been a Beach resident for the past 25 years.

He lived in Armour Heights until he was 19, and then in various other parts of the city during his university days and early working life.

In 1998, he moved down to the Beach neighbourhood where he bought a house.

“I chose the Beach partly because of a good friend who had moved here the year prior, and also because I had great memories of coming here as a lad with my childhood friends,” he said.

The basis of Smith’s A Stone for the Fox is a reflection of life and how certain

aspects of our childhood have shaped us.

“It’s a rumination about memory and about the places that we came from and the things that were very important to us when we were children that were grounding and rooting,” he told Beach Metro Community News

“When you become an adult, what has that done to you and how has that changed, what are those disappointments that come from lost expectations.”

Smith explained how he came up with the main character of his book, Jonathan Birnam, and some of the inspirations behind it.

“I basically cherry-picked the things that I really liked about my favourite characters and tried to distill that into somebody that was still believable…it’s bits and pieces of my favourite literary heroes and bits and pieces of me,” he said.

Some of the events that sparked his interest to write this book came from purchasing a first-edition James Bond book for his father and taking detective fiction classes in university. When Smith’s father passed away, he started a library with similar books which began his love of not only reading but a love of the detective fiction genre.

“There is that nice little echo to my dad that ‘Hey dad we got a novel published with our names on the front cover,” he said.

“The other reason to do it was to see if I could. I had written a bunch of other short stories and I always enjoyed the process,” added Smith.

This is the first book Smith has written. Before A Stone for the Fox, he had mainly written short stories and a few children’s plays.

“I put all my eggs in this

basket to be honest,” he said of his novel.

Smith is now working on a second book that he hopes to finish by the end of this year.

He said that book will explore Toronto’s homelessness epidemic in connection to viatical settlements (the selling of a person’s life insurance policy to a third party for an amount more than its cash surrender value but less than its net death benefit), a now illegal practice in Ontario.

Smith said the book will dive deeper into questioning whether or not there are groups secretly still carrying out these arrangements with the disadvantaged as well as other interesting ideas.

In A Stone for the Fox, Smith has set a number of

scenes in the Beach. He said that was because he really wanted to showcase his community and the relationships he has built throughout the years with it.

“I wanted my community to be a part of the book… there was an opportunity to have a couple of moments that celebrated the Beach and celebrated some relationships… it’s also a bit of a love letter to the Beach too, a thank you for giving me a place to live,” he said.

A Stone For The Fox is available to be purchased at Book City’s store at 1950 Queen St. E. in the Beach.

It can also be purchased online going to https:// www.bookcity.ca/item/vsVO69oCilz-oFPuI20ptA or the Book City website.

PHOTO: MICHELLE QUANCE

Beacher Kinmond Smith’s A Stone for the Fox: A Jonathan Birnam Novel was released recently.

Reel Beach: Movies in East Toronto

The Legend of the Shipwrecked Stallion and its movie connections

Bernie fletcher

When you see

“based on a true story” at the beginning of a film, do you take that with a grain of salt? Movies often weave fictional stories into historical accounts such as The Great Escape. The reverse is also true when real people and events find their way into screenplays and novels.

When Erich Segal wrote his best-selling 1970 novel Love Story about Harvard in the 1960s he included a character named Davey Johnston, captain of the Harvard hockey team.

That would be our former Governor-General David Johnston who was Segal’s friend and jogging partner.

Never saying sorry

Love Story claimed that, “Love is never having to say you’re sorry.” Johnston may be sorry that he earlier agreed to take on the thankless job of “special rapporteur”, but happy birthday to him anyway. (Johnston was born on June 28, 1941.)

That same year, 1941,

Walter Farley’s book The Black Stallion tells the story of a shipwrecked horse that is rescued and goes on to be champion racer.

author Walter Farley (1915-1989) wrote a classic children’s book, The Black Stallion

The New York Times de-

“the

most famous fictional horse of the century.”

In 1979 the best-selling novel was adapted into one of the finest movies ever filmed in the Beach (with

“the Black Stallion” galloping down Kenilworth Avenue to Queen Street East).

I always thought the story of a shipwrecked horse who survives to win a big race was a complete fantasy.

I recently watched National Velvet (1944) which starred a 12-year-old Elizabeth Taylor. (That really is Taylor falling off the horse and injuring her back.) Her friend Mi (Mickey Rooney) is a former jockey who tells a story about a race horse who survived a shipwreck, swam to an island, was rescued by fishermen and went on to win the 1904 Grand National Steeplechase in England.

The tale has been repeated many times, including on the BBC.

There’s only one problem. Like many legends, it’s not quite true.

Print the Legend

There was a horse from New Zealand named Moifaa who won the 1904 Grand National and had indeed come to the United Kingdom by ship, but it was a different horse (Kiora) in the same race who actually survived a shipwreck and was stranded

until being rescued by fishermen.

The ship S.S. Thermopylae was sailing from Australia in 1899 when it ran aground on a reef in dense fog off the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. No lives were lost. The Toronto Star of Sept. 12, 1899 ran the headline, “Steamer Wrecked at Cape Town.”

The two race horses onboard, Kiora and Chesney, managed to escape.

An exhausted Kiora was found the next day stranded on a shallow reef and years later ran in the Grand National of 1904 but fell and did not finish the race that Moifaa won.

Perhaps Enid Bagnold (1889-1981) had heard the horse’s tale and worked it into her 1935 novel National Velvet as a shipwreck off Ireland.

Maybe Walter Farley knew the story when he wrote the first of many books on The Black Stallion.

Coincidentally, in the 1979 film version Mickey Rooney plays an ex-jockey who helps train a child to win a big race on the back of a stallion who miraculously survived a shipwreck off the coast of Africa.

Whatever the truth, it’s a terrific story.

Filmmakers often stretch the truth to make a more entertaining movie.

Don’t get me started on the bogus storylines of films like Argo.

We like our heroes. Great art has its own truths. Critic Roger Ebert wrote about Norman Jewison’s 1990 film The Hurricane (which filmed two scenes in the Beach):

“Those who seek the truth about a man from the film of his life might as well seek it from his loving grandmother. Most biopics, like most grandmothers, see the good in a man and demonize their enemies…The Hurricane is not a documentary, but a parable in which two lives are saved by the power of the written word.”

Sometimes truth is stranger than fiction.

The name of the horse who played “the Pie” in National Velvet was King Charles. And whatever happened to Moifaa? He was purchased by the future King Edward VII and spent his retirement as a riding horse on royal hunts.

Lots of carrots and apples I trust.

Arts & Entertainment

The 35th annual Beaches International Jazz Festival features a full line-up of events for July. Back again this year,

the always popular StreetFest along Queen Street East on the nights of July 27 through July 29.

Beaches International Jazz Festival brings summer fun starting July 6

By Nafisat Alao

THE 2023 Beaches International Jazz Festival has events scheduled from Thursday, July 6 through to Sunday, July 30.

This year, the 35th annual Beaches International Jazz Festival kicks off with The Sounds of Leslieville and Riverside from July 6 to 9.

After that Woodbine Park will be the centre of most of the festival action with Salsa on the Beach (July 14, 15 and 16); The TD Main Stage Weekends (July 20, 21, 22, and 23); and the OLG Weekend on July 28, 29 and 30.

The always popular Streetfest along Queen Street East in the Beach goes nightly from Thursday, July 27 to 29.

Also slated is the Workshop Series which this year will be based out of Kensington Market on July 4, 11, 18 and 25. The Workshop Series will also feature ticketed performances of Duelling Pianos (Father & Son) on July 25 at Beach United Church.

As in past years, admission to the festival events is free. Here’s the rundown on events set for July’s Beaches International Jazz Festival:

Sounds of Leslieville & Riverside- Thursday, July 6; Friday, July 7; Saturday, July 8; and Sunday, July 9 at Jimmie Simpson Park

This year’s festival opens with Sounds of Leslieville and Riverside with performances set for the afternoon and evening of July 6 and 7 and performances throughout the day on July 8 and 9 at Jimmie Simpson Park (870 Queen St. E.)

The fun begins on Thursday, July 6, with Steinwall at 7 p.m.; followed by Five Alarm Funk at 9 p.m.

Sounds of Leslieville and Riverside continues on Friday, July 7, with The Brigham Phillips “Little” Big Band at 3:30 p.m.; Stacey Renee at 7:15 p.m.; and Neon Nostalgic at 9 p.m.

The Saturday, July 8, lineup begins at 11 a.m. with free Swing Dance lessons by the Swing Toronto Band. After that, there will be performances by Martin Loomer’s Orange Devils at 11:30 a.m.; The Jazz Mechanics at 2 p.m.; Alex Porat at 4:30 p.m.; Accolades at 6 p.m.; The Quincy Bullen family at 7:30 p.m.; and Lazo and the Exodus at 9 p.m.

The Sunday, July 9, lineup also begins at 11 a.m. with Christian Overton & the Composers Collection; the Swing Shift Big Band at 1:15 p.m.; Moka at 3:30 p.m.; Grace at 5 p.m.; and Jerome Tucker Band at 6:30 p.m.

TD Salsa on the Beach- Friday, July 14; Saturday, July 15; and Sunday, July, 16 at Woodbine Park

For the weekend of July 14 to 16, Woodbine Park transforms into a dance floor featuring the energetic Latin melodies of Salsa, Merengue and Cumbia.

On Friday, July, 14, DJ Victor Explosivo plays at 7 p.m.; followed by a Salsa Class with Dailyn at 7:30 p.m. After that, DJ Victor Explosivio takes the stage again at 8:30 p.m., and finally Rice and Mango close the night at 9 p.m.

Salsa on the Beach continues on Saturday, July, 15, and there will be a number of performers playing. DJ Victor Explosivo is back to kick off the day at 2 p.m.; after that EL Sol De Cuba plays salsa music at 2:30 p.m. Continuing through the rest of the evening, Salsa Class with Dailyn & DJ; Borolo plays at 5 p.m.; La Sonera Queen plays at 7 p.m.; and Mauro Mosquera an international artist from Columbia plays at 9 p.m.

Finally, on Sunday, July 16, DJ Victor Explosivo is back for another performance at 2 p.m.; followed by The Sons of Tuta playing at 2:30 p.m.

After that, Freddy Anthony plays at 4:30 p.m.; and Salseros with Attitude ends the night off with Salsa at 6:30 p.m.

Woodbine Park is located at 1695 Queen St. E.

TD Weekend on the Main Stage at Woodbine Park- Thursday, July 20; Friday, July, 21; Saturday 22; and Sunday, 23

From July 20 to the 23, the jazz festival continues on the Main Stage at Woodbine Park with the TD Weekend.

The event begins on Thursday, July 20 with a 90s renaissance party hosted by Master T from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. featuring Starting from Scratch; and Mista Jiggz.

On Friday, July 21, the performers include All McCartney: Tribute to Paul McCartney and The Beatles live at 7 p.m.; followed by Soul of Motown: All the best of Motown at 9 p.m.

On Saturday, July, 22, the performers are Johannes Linstead at 2:30 p.m.; Spencer Mackenzie at 4 p.m.; Steele at 5:30 p.m.; Zach Zoya at 7:30 p.m.; and Jay Douglas at 9 p.m.

On Sunday, July, 23, scheduled performances are Little Magic Sam Band at 1:30 p.m.; James Anthony at 3 p.m.; Kenny Blues Boss Wayne at 4:30 p.m.; and Dawn Tyler Watson at 6:30 p.m.

TD Workshop Series

The TD Workshop Series will provide the opportunity to be a part of great drop-in workshops and jams drawing hundreds of funk-loving souls to Kensington Market, 268 Augusta Ave. from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on July 4, 11,18 and 25.

The first drop-in event on July 4 will be a drop-in choir; the following week after that on July 11, there will be a drop-in percussion workshop. On July 18, there will be a Jamming 101 session; and finally, on July 25, there will be a dancing workshop for musicians being held.

The Workshop Series this year will also feature performances of Duelling Pianos (Father & Son) on the nights of July 25 and 26, at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave.

Duelling Pianos (Father & Son) features Juno-winning pianist Eddie Bullen along with his son Quincy performing together to play a number of beautiful arrangements for two pianos of classical, jazz and pop music punctuated with commentary about their father and son relationship and their unique family history. Show times are 7:30 p.m.

The concerts are paid-ticket performances with proceeds going to the Michael Garron Hospital Foundation.

Those wishing to attend Duelling Pianos (Father & Son) should know that the July 25 show is already sold out, and that tickets are going fast for the July 26 performance. For information on tickets, please go to https:// www.mghf.ca/dueling-pianos-wednesday

Queen Street East StreetFest- Thursday, July, 27; Friday, July 28; and Saturday, July 29

The ever-popular StreetFest takes place along Queen Street East in the Beach between Woodbine and Beech avenues from 6 to 11 p.m. on the nights of July 27 through July 29.

More than 30 bands will perform at various Queen Street East locations over the course of StreetFest’s three nights.

For a complete list of locations and bands performing, please go to www.beachesjazz. com/streetfest

StreetFest will see Queen Street East From Woodbine Avenue to Beech Avenue be closed to vehicles to make room for the festival. The

closure is in effect from 6 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. on all three nights of the StreetFest. Vehicles will also not be allowed to park on Queen Street East between 4 to 6 p.m. on July 27, 28 and 29 or they will be towed.

Please also note for StreetFest that the route of the Main Street 64 bus will be adjusted to avoid Queen Street East.

Waverley Road, Lee Avenue and Wineva Avenue will remain open during the StreetFest hours for thorough way traffic and for safety and access reasons.

OLG Weekend Series on the Main Stage at Woodbine Park- Friday, July 28; Saturday, July 29; and Sunday, July 30

As part of the OLG Weekend Series, the Beaches International Jazz Festival concludes its performances at Woodbine Park.

The eighth annual Groovin’ in the Park showcases a meeting of Soul, Funk, World & House music on July 28 and 29.

Some past performers making a return for this event include DJ Spinna’s WONDERFULL, Tortured Soul, Roy Davis Jr., Greg Wilson, Starting From Scratch, Jojo Flores, Tush, Soul Motivators, Jason Palma, DJ Yogi, Ritmo Collective, and Mike Gibbs.

The festival’s final day of performances on Sunday, July, 30, goes from 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Heather Bambrick with the Swing Shift Big Band takes the stage at 1:30 p.m.: then Malia Love at 3:30 p.m.; Apollo Suns at 5 p.m.; and My Son the Hurricane finishes off the night and the festival at 6:30 p.m.

For more information on the Beaches International Jazz Festival, please visit https:// www.beachesjazz.com/

and shown in the photos above from 2022, will be

Duelling Pianos (Father & Son) featuring Juno-winning pianist Eddie Bullen and his son Quincy is set for the nights of Tuesday, July 25, and Wednesday, July 26, at Beach United Church. The ticketed concerts are fundraisers for the Michael Garron Hospital Foundation.

Purple Martins an exciting sight by Lake Ontario shore

Ann BrokelMAn

is an avid birder and nature photographer naturephotosbyann.blogspot.ca

What a great month May was for bird watching! Some of my favourite birds, such as Baltimore and Orchard Orioles, Red-headed woodpeckers, flycatchers, and swallows, have all migrated back into town.

Also, a personal perennial thrill is the arrival of all the spring babies, especially the ones that I find in my own backyard.

This year, so far, I’ve seen a few new ones and some old favourites.

I’ve got a nest of house wrens for the first time, which has been fascinating to say the least, and a family of eastern grey squirrels has set up shop in my owl box. Of course, I’d rather have the owls back, but I’m glad someone is making use of the real estate. The four baby squirrels have already given me a few hours of fun, as I’ve watched them climb out of the box and slide down the ladder my husband built for them (the little ones wouldn’t be able to climb the pole and back into the nest otherwise).

My mourning doves have also come back, for the fourth year in a row, and are nesting in the same spot in my front tree. Why mess with a good thing?

Another new sighting came when I was out walking, not too far from

my house, down by Lake Ontario. A flash of deep purple drew my eye to a few birds flying over the water. When they landed in a nearby tree, I was able to get a better look, and that’s when I realized they were Purple Martins.

I was excited by this, as I don’t see them too often, but my excitement rose a few notches when I realized they had claimed a nesting box nearby! I knew I’d be coming back to this spot to watch for chicks.

The next paragraph of this article was written by my granddaughter Lara (10), who came birding with me a few days later:

“When I saw the birds with my Oma, I was pretty excited because I got to learn about Purple Martins and see them for the first time. When we arrived, a few were skimming across the water as we got out of the car. I learned they do this because it’s an easy way for them to catch insects. As we got to their birdhouse, we saw multiple male and female Martins, some standing, some flying, and some poking their heads out of the box. It was pretty cute. I like that they use the houses we build for them.”

Purple Martins, (Progne Subis), are the largest member of the North American swallow family and are aerial insectivores, which means that they exclusively feed on flying insects.

Interestingly, when there isn’t a lot of light they lack colour, but in the sunshine,

they appear to be bright blue, navy blue, or deep purple. This is caused by a refraction of light that I don’t fully understand, but I know also applies to Blue Jays (who aren’t actually blue).

You’ve probably heard a Purple Martin at some point; their various calls are described as “throaty and rich” and can be rendered as tchew-wew, pew pew, choo, cher, zweet and zwrack.

The males have a gurgling and guttural courtship song, a dawn song, and even a subsong used at the end of the breeding season. While standing by the tree, I could hear them vocalizing to each other.

As I was reading up on them, later that night, I learned that their populations are dropping quickly, but the experts aren’t sure why.

And one last, but quite interesting, detail I picked up online from the Nature Canada website: “East of the Rockies, Purple Martins rely exclusively on human-provided housing to nest in during their breeding seasons. This relationship is often attributed to the Indigenous Peoples of North America who hung hollowed-out gourds on top of poles to attract Purple Martin to nest in.” (Naturecanada.ca)

If you can spare some time to take a nature walk, try to go down by the waterfront, and maybe you’ll get lucky and spot some of these amazing birds. Enjoy the summer!

PHOTO: ANN BROKELMAN

Ann Brokelman took this photo of male and female Purple Martins in their house near Lake Ontario.

HEALTH

DR. KARIN RUMMELL & ASSOCIATES OPTOMETRISTS

1914 Queen St. E. (E. of Woodbine) Mon.- Sat. by appointment 416-691-5757

BALSAM DENTAL Family Dentistry * Open 6 days a week * * Evening hours available * New patients always welcome 2200 Queen St. East (at Balsam) 416-691-8555 www.balsamdental.com

BEACHES OPTOMETRY CLINIC

Dr. Linda Chan, Optometrist and Associates 951 Kingston Rd. (West of Victoria Park) 416-691-1991

DR. LINDA WINTER Psychologist Consultations • Therapy

Individuals • Couples Over 20 years experience. Located at Queen & Wheeler 416-691-1071

Dr. Linda Iny Lempert Psychologist & Psychoanalyst

Individuals & Couples Services disponibles en français Insurance Coverage 47 Main Street (at Lyall Ave) 416-694-4380 www.drlempert.ca

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Tara Shannon

579 Kingston Rd (corner Main) 416 698-6960 tara@tarashannon.ca

PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

WELLNESS missfit.ca

in-home personal trainer 416 888 6465 mimi@missfit.ca

Monica Dhanraj RN REIKI MASTER/SPIRITUAL HEALER Golden Energy Healing Transformation ~~Raise your awareness of self~~ soulconnections11@outlook.com 647.887.5501

CAROL-ANN’S PERSONAL TRAINING

Specializing in STABILITY, MOBILITY and STRENGTH • CEP-CSEP girlonbike1@gmail.com 416-465-8941

References Available Upon Request

COUNSELLING

Catherine Allon, BSc, MEd Caring Solutions for Life & Relationship Issues 416-694-0232

www.energyawakening.com

Spiritual Counselling

Susan J Katz, M.A. Spiritual Care Counselling Professional Chaplain Member Can Assoc for Spiritual Care 437-268-5143 susan@susanjkatz.com www.susanjkatz.com

CHRISTINE KATO, B.Sc., D.V.M. KATO ANIMAL HOSPITAL 2830 Danforth Ave. (East of Dawes Rd.) 416-690-2112

Dogs, cats, pocket pets. Housecalls available.

Carolyn Dallman Downes Registered Psychotherapist Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Relationships. www.CarolynDallmanDownes.com 416-363-0065

Kirsten Johnson B.Sc, DipTIRP, RP

Psychotherapy for Individuals/Couples

LGTBQ+ / Anxiety / Depression more...

Insurance welcome

BeyondTheBlueTherapy.com

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT Bert van Delft

Complete financial services for the business owner, manager, entrepreneur & self-employed Corporate and Personal Income Tax Services Bus: 416-270-9898 98 Scarboro Beach Blvd.

William F. Deneault Chartered Accountant

• Corporate & Personal Tax

• Specializing in small to medium business

• Financial advice

21 St. Clair Avenue East, Suite 502 Tel: (416) 962-2186

Kriens LaRose, LLP

Chartered Professional Accountants

• Accounting services for owner-managed businesses.

• Personal and corporation income tax preparation.

• Audit and consulting services for not-for-profit organizations www.krienslarose.com 416-690-6800

Melani Norman CPA, CMA Accounting Issues and Systems, Bookkeeping, Personal and Corporate Taxes Call 416-471-0337

Emily C. Larimer CPA, CGA BOOKKEEPING & PERSONAL TAX RETURNS INCLUDING TAXES IN ARREARS Call: 416-693-2274 emily@eclarimercpa.com www.eclarimercpa.com

Patrick Ruiz Professional Corporation CPA, CA An accountant you can count on For your Small Business Self-employed income & investments Real Estate Rentals 647-300-4062 • patrick@prtaxcpa.com

Difficult Meetings?

LAWYERS/LEGAL

Dashwood & Dashwood Barristers & Solicitors

Geoffrey J. Dashwood 961 Kingston Rd. Tel. 416-690-7222 Toronto, M4E 1S8 Fax. 416-690-8738

Snider & DiGregorio Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries. 978 Kingston Road, Toronto, Ont., M4E 1S9

Tel: 416-699-0424

Fax: 416-699-0285 Email: info@sdlegal.ca

O’Reilly, Moll & Mian Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries Public

300 Main Street 416-690-3324

DENISE BADLEY-CASTELLO

Barrister, Solicitor, Notary Family • Wills & Estates Real Estate 2069 Danforth Ave. (Woodbine) 416-690-6195 dbadleylaw@rogers.com

KATHRYN WRIGHT

Barrister & Solicitor Family Law & Mediation 416-699-8848

2239 Queen Street East www.kathrynwrightlaw.com kathrynwrightlaw@gmail.com

HOUGHTON VETERINARY HOUSECALL SERVICES

Vaccines, examinations, diagnostics, palliative care, and home euthanasia provided for your pets in the comfort of your own home.

Dr. Barbara Houghton 647-221-5516

GARRY M. CASS BARRISTER & SOLICITOR, TEP Wills/Estate Administration/Advice to Estate Trustees 416-767-CASS (2277) x 207 416-795-4899 (cell) 416-491-0273 (fax) garry@garrycass.com

INVESTMENT ADVICE & FINANCIAL PLANNING

Michael Haier, CFA, CIM, FCSI Raymond James Ltd. 647-289-7191 michael.haier@raymondjames.ca Honest, affordable advice.

Beaches Family Law and MEDIATION

Linda Bronicheski, J.D. 47 Main Street (at Lyall) 416-763-6884 Linda@BeachesFamilyLaw.com

Shelly Pereira, Paralegal

Commissioner/Notary, Small Claims, Landlord & Tenant/other Tribunals, Municipal Offences, Letters & Mediation. Call for a Free 30 min. Consultation 647-693-6240 Toronto info@toronto-paralegal.net

Peter J. Salah Family Law Lawyer 124 Merton Street, Suite 300 We Collaborate, Negotiate & Litigate 416.752.8128 peter@salahlaw.ca www.salahlaw.ca

KAMRULHAFIZAHMED

REAL ESTATE LAWYER 416 690 1855 [P 416 690 1866 [F 2972 DANFORTH AVE.

QUINN Family Law

Shelley C. Quinn, LL.B., LL.M. (Family Law) 662 Broadview Ave. t. (416) 551-1025 www.QuinnFamilyLaw.ca

CHIROPRACTORS

Janet D’Arcy DC, FRCCSS (C) Chiropractor Sports Injury Specialist 2455A Queen St. East 416 690-6257 Open Saturdays

John H. BJARNASON, D.C. Chiropractor 1906 Queen St. E. (1 block east of Woodbine) 416-694-2868

BEACHES WELLNESS CENTRE Dr. Johanna Carlo Chiropractic & Registered Massage Therapy 2130 Queen Street East 416-698-7070

ASHBRIDGE’S HEALTH CENTRE

Dr. Emily Howell & Associates Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Orthotics ashbridgeshealth.janeapp.com 1522 Queen St. E. 416-465-5575 www.ashbridgeshealth.ca

MASSAGE THERAPY

advancedapproaches massage.com Su Willson, B.MUS, R.M.T. & ASSOC 927 Kingston Rd. (W. of Vic Pk) • Open 7 Days a week • Voted “#1 Spa and Best Massage Therapist in Toronto” 416-694-6767

Kerry Bowser WEDDING OFFICIANT kerry@kerrybowser.com www.kerrybowser.com 416-807-3094

Free Consultation Available

Stephen G. King, Architect B. Arch. OAA, MRAIC “Serving the Beach since 1987”

Residential, Restorations, Home Inspections, Commercial, Interiors, Landscapes

COMPLETE PROJECT SERVICES FROM DESIGN THROUGH CONSTRUCTION (416) 694-8181

www.stephenkingarchitect.com

Member Ontario Association of Architects

Glover & Associates

Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries Real Estate, Family, Litigation Wills & Estates, Corporate 416-691-3700 Queen and Hammersmith

THERAPY LOUNGE

Welcome to our new space! 2152 Queen Street East • Open 7 days per week • Book Online www.therapylounge.ca 416-916-7122

URBAN CALM

THERAPEUTICS

Stephanie Gage, RMT Kristina Pearsal, RMT 1789 Queen St. East, Unit 6 www.urbancalm.ca 416-698-3157

Jen Goddard, R.M.T. Neville Park Health Group 2455A Queen St. East 416-690-6257

FUNERAL SERVICES

Design INGenuity

Modify your home in order to stay home, without moving to a retirement home. We will help you design and renovate it nicely! 416-704-5533 diane900000@icloud.com www.designINGenuity.ca

eco Cremation & Burial Services Inc. Life Celebrations.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Track and field athletes from St. John Catholic School on Kingston Road are shown at Varsity Stadium recently.

Local TCDSB elementary schools earn success at track and field meets

LOCAL ELEMENTARY schools notched some solid performances during the Toronto Catholic District School Board’s (TCDSB) track and field competitions recently.

St. John Catholic School on Kingston Road won the South Regional meet and finished third overall at the City Championships held at Varsity Stadium.

On the way to the city finals, St. John won

the championship of their Divisional meet as well.

At the City Championships, St. John had 39 track and field athletes competing.

Also doing well this track and field season in TCDSB competition was St. Denis Catholic School on Balsam Avenue who won their Divisional championship and were third at the South Regional meet.

OFSAA medals for Neil McNeil athletes

TRACK AND field athletes

from Neil McNeil Catholic High School put in impressive performances at the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) championships recently in Ottawa.

Silver medals were won by Cecil Jenkins in the Novice 1,500-metre run and the Novice 4-x-100m relay team of Fionn Fraser, Will Wells Richards, Lucas Hadley and Pearce Dixon.

The Neil McNeil team finished third overall at the OFSAA championships, which was the best showing at the provincials in school history. The Novice boys team also finished third in their division.

A total of 23 athletes from Neil McNeil qualified for the OFSAA track and field championships.

Continued on Page 21

PHOTOS: SUBMITTED

Above, the Neil McNeil Catholic High School Novice 4-x-100m relay team of Fionn Fraser, Will Wells Richards, Lucas Hadley and Pearce Dixon celebrate winning the silver medal at the OFSAA track and field championships in Ottawa. Right, Cecil Jenkins won the silver medal in the Novice 1,500-metre race at the OFSAA track and field championships.

Local volleyballer Roodbol accepts scholarship to San Jose State

By Kimberly Tiessen BEACHER

AVA Roodbol is California bound; leaving her club volleyball career a Canadian national champion.

The 18 year old setter will continue her athletic and academic career at San Jose State University, a move to an elite NCAA Division 1 volleyball program and a dream come true for Roodbol.

Her recruiting journey hasn’t been an easy one as she took a chance after being shut down by the COVID-19 pandemic for two years and decided to take a gap year long before she graduated high school in June of 2022.

The decision not only allowed her another year of eligibility in volleyball, but also gave her another year to prepare for the next chapter of her life.

“The pandemic really slowed things down for me,” said Roodbol. “The lockdown provided clarity that I just wasn’t ready mentally and physically for where I wanted to go.”

Even though some reputable Canadian schools came calling, Roodbol never wavered in her desire to play at an NCAA - Division 1 school, so taking a gap year allowed her to continue to play and be seen by U.S. universities once things opened back up again and the risk certainly paid off.

The Youth National Volleyball Championships were held in Calgary last month, and Roodbol’s team MVC (Mountain View Volleyball Club) Everest made club history by winning the national title. But the celebration has been quick as her official reporting day at San Jose State, where the Spartans start training for the upcoming volleyball season, is early July.

SJSU lost to Utah State in the finals last season to

clinch their Mountain West Conference and go on to the NCAA Championship tournament. U.S. Conference winners earn a ring, and now Roodbol has set her sights on one. “After holding the Canadian National Cup in Calgary last month, I now want a ring to go with it,” she said.

Having played club volleyball for eight years with a number of clubs including Phoenix Volleyball Club, the Leaside Volleyball Club and the Titans Volleyball Club, Roodbol wanted to go out with a Canadian title.

She was noticed by Hamilton’s MVC Head Coach Albie O’Hanian. “When I signed with MVC last August, I was already on the path of being recruited by some really good U.S. schools, but when I started playing with the incredibly talented players on MVC and coached by some amazing coaches, that’s when new doors started opening for me,” said Roodbol.

She admitted it was hard navigating the recruiting process. When it came down to decisions it had to be the right school, the right coach, the right opportunity to earn a scholarship.

“We just kept saying, every time a door closed, or I turned down a great opportunity that my coach and my school are out there, I just have to be patient and keep the faith,” said Roodbol.

She said the pandemic taught her a lot about being patient. “I found ways to keep playing through COVID, I even travelled to Detroit, Michigan and played for Michigan’s number one volleyball club for a season.”

She said that led to a huge amount of driving back and forth for practices and travelling to tournaments in the U.S. “I’m just lucky to have supportive parents that

Neil McNeil athletes put in strong OFSAA performances

‘OFSAA’ from Page 20 Ethan Robinson in Senior high jump. Fifth place honours went to Stephan Elias in Junior shot put; Einstein Menya in Junior long jump; and Julian Vesprini in Senior javelin. Vesprini had been ranked 19th going into the event but threw a personal best three metres further than he had done before to earn the fifth place finish.

OFSAA is made up of 18 athletic associations from across the province. Each association has their championship meet and then attends one of six regional championships from which four athletes in each category qualify for OFSAA. That means the athletes competing in each event at OFSAA are the top 24 in all of Ontario.

Other strong performances put in at the June 8 to 10 Ottawa meet by Neil McNeil athletes included fourth place finishes for Jenkins in the Novice 3,000m, and

believed in my dream and allowed me to do all these crazy things,” said Roodbol.

Her dream to play in the U.S. started early. “At 12U, I heard about Canadian kids earning scholarships for the NCAA, and that was it, the seed was planted. I set my sites on Division 1 and I never looked back.”

Along with working on her volleyball skills, Roodbol has also put the focus on school work. She graduated with Head Honours, Honour Roll and with an Ontario Scholar Certificate from Bayview Glen Independent School. At San Jose State, she will be studying Business with a specialty in Hospitality.

Roodbol continues to train everyday in Toronto in preparation of her arrival in San Jose in July.

Beginner

Seventh place finishes were earned were earned by the Open 4x400m relay team of Charlie Pilz, Damiano Totten, Xavier Gordon and Jacob Oswicki. Finn Veale finished eighth in the Novice 3,000m.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED Beacher Ava Roodbol will be playing volleyball on a scholarship to San Jose State next season.

Meeting hears of need for more affordable housing in Port Lands

By Amarachi Amadike, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

THE CITY of Toronto, along with Waterfront Toronto, hosted a public consultation meeting recently to discuss the housing targets at the proposed Villiers Island, a new community being developed in the Port Lands.

At the meeting were representatives for Waterfront Toronto as well as Toronto-Danforth Councillor Paula Fletcher who has advocated for more affordable housing units in the development taking place in the southern end of her ward for years.

“This is such great news. I’ve worked very hard to get City Council to increase the affordable housing planned for Villiers Island to 30 per cent,” said Fletcher in a press release prior to Monday, June 19, meeting. “Everyone should have a chance to live on our new Waterfront.”

The meeting, which garnered more than 150 community members at its peak, featured in-depth analysis of the Villiers Island proposal including the potential number of affordable residential units that can be created, density of pub-

lic lands, massing, and much more.

Although the proposal is still in its initial phase (including exploring changes to the built form of Villiers Island to support additional housing), Waterfront Toronto members presented concepts to the public which will be developed and refined in the next phase expected to begin in July.

According to Waterfront Toronto, there are currently three approaches for increasing density on the island that are being discussed.

The first approach will increase density south of the Keating Channel and on the northern blocks. The second option explores increasing density on the western blocks with tall towers along New Cherry Street gateway and west blocks, while the third approach focuses on central intensification between New Cherry and New Munition streets.

Developers refrained from intensifying the eastern block with tall towers in order to “avoid shadows on the new river channel”, according to Christopher Glaisek, Chief Planning and Design Officer at Waterfront Toronto.

All three options aim to provide anywhere from 6,000 to 7,000 units

of housing as opposed to the 4,865 in the currently approved precinct plan for the area.

The biggest concern for most in attendance at the meeting was the need for affordable units in the development.

“The lands that are city lands are the ones that we’re talking about for the 30 per cent [affordable units],” said Fletcher.

“But the development applications that are currently in by private owners have no proposed affordable housing.”

She highlighted the “sad state of affairs” the city finds itself in as the provincial government of Premier Doug Ford altered Toronto’s inclusionary zoning in order to push forward the Ontario’s More Homes Built Faster Act.

“We’ll do our best on all the lands that we have control over,” said Fletcher on setting minimums for affordable housing in residential development proposals.

In 2021, Fletcher, who is also vice chair of Toronto’s Planning and Housing Committee, proposed a motion which emphasized the importance of adding affordable housing to the Villiers Island plan.

The following year, with support

Nine-storey mass timber frame building planned for Gerrard/Greenwood area

By Amarachi Amadike, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

THE CITY of Toronto has received an application for a nine-storey mixed use building to be built southeast of the Greenwood Avenue and Gerrard Street East intersection.

The site is currently composed of 14 properties (lowrise residential and mixeduse buildings) which have a total of 24 rental dwelling units. The specific building addresses identified in the application are 1291-1311 Gerrard St. E. and 243-247 Greenwood Ave. The proposal does not include the building situated directly on the southeast corner of the intersection.

The proposed building will have 289 rental residential dwelling units, 24 of which will be rental replacement units. It is expected to have 16,605 square metres of residential Gross Floor Area (GFA) as well as 1,725 square metres of retail Gross Floor Area.

The applicant, Percy Ellis Holdings, will provide 22 parking spaces with only 17 of those reserved for residents. To offset the low number of vehicular parking available, there will also be 319 bicycle storage spaces.

The building will be constructed with a mass timber frame in an effort to help the City of Toronto reach its climate goals.

The proposal will redevelop this current site into a mid-rise building with retail facing Gerrard Street East/

Greenwood Avenue, east side, just south of Gerrard Street East is shown in photo above. A proposal for a nine-storey mixed-use building for the area has recently been received by the City of Toronto. Image below shows what the proposed building will look like seen from Greenwood Avenue.

from Toronto Council, her motions increased affordable housing and density targets from 20 to 30 per cent for the planned mixed-use community on city-owned land.

“More density will have to be added to meet our 30 per cent housing target,” said Fletcher.

“It will allow for a truly mixed community of co-operative, rentgeared-to-income, seniors and midrange rental housing on this impressive new waterfront site being created out of the Port Lands Flood Protection Project.”

Other areas of importance identified by community members at the meeting were transit connectivity and infrastructure; a 30-km/h speed limit to ensure a “slow-living waterfront precinct”; affordable home ownership; as well as the need to “create a network” of spectacular open spaces.

Many are hoping that the developer plans prioritize public access to water edges as well as the preservation of the lake and park views.

“Villiers Island can be a shining example of how we can help solve the housing crisis by utilizing cityowned land and smart planning policies to create much needed purpose-built affordable housing,”

said Fletcher.

The developers for Villiers Island are expected to report back to the public in Phase Three of the planning process (between September and October of this year) with a more detailed version of their proposal which will include specifics on how many affordable units will be created through the project.

Waterfront Toronto is a partnered corporation created by the City of Toronto, Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada to oversee and deliver the revitalization of Toronto’s waterfront.

The Port Lands initiative aims to transform 800 hectares of brownfield lands on Toronto’s waterfront into sustainable mixed-use communities while also naturalizing the mouth of the Don River as it meets Lake Ontario.

For more information on the Villiers Island development, visit www.waterfrontoronto.ca/ourprojects/villiers-island

-- Amarachi Amadike is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for Beach Metro Community News. His reporting is funded by the Government of Canada through its Local Journalism Initiative.

Parking, affordability concerns raised at meeting on 9 Benlamond Ave. proposal

By Amarachi Amadike, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A COMMUNITY Consultation Meeting for a development proposal at 9 Benlamond Ave., in the Main Street and Gerrard Street East area, took place recently.

At the meeting on the night of June 12 were City Planner Sean Guenther; Planning Consultant Christian Chan; Arborist Consultant Kyle Berwick; Engineering Consultant Grant Kauffman; Studio JCI architects Samantha Carnevale and Jaegap Chung; and a representative for Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford’s office, Madison Leisk.

The zoning bylaw amendment application is for a four-storey low-rise apartment building just west of Main Street. Currently at this site is a low-rise detached residential building that has vehicular access from Benlamond Avenue.

regarding parking. Although the city bylaws previously required 23 vehicle parking spots, the applicant’s proposal only includes six spaces since City Council amended parking space regulations on Oct. 12, 2022.

One community member reported that as a resident of the area, he has noticed that the roads are “fairly congested with parking on the street” and suggested that the proposal needs to include more parking spaces to avoid further congestion.

Chan explained that Toronto Council removed the requirement for parking spaces in low-rise buildings last year with the intention of having new developments relying less on vehicular transportation.

apartment buildings in the city. The building also mostly consists of two and threebedroom units in order to cater to families with children.

“We need a car because we have to travel with our children,” said the community member. “Plus we have four bicycles for our family so I don’t really see how you’re addressing that issue. I just think you’re missing the point of what a family needs in terms of parking and accessibility for bicycles.”

As far as bicycle spaces, Chung said that the application proposes 20 – more than the required 16 spaces – due to the building being located in close proximity to some of the major bike transit areas.

Greenwood Avenue as well as a mid-block connection to Richard Avenue, which runs east of Greenwood one block south of Gerrard.

Although no date has been set yet, Percy Ellis is expected to engage in public consultation with the local business community, arts organizations, Indigenous community, residents and housing providers between 2023 and 2024 regarding the proposal.

For more information on this development, contact City Planner Steven Barber at steven.barber@toronto.ca or Toronto-Danforth Councillor Paula Fletcher at councillor_fletcher@toronto.ca

-- Amarachi Amadike is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for Beach Metro Community News. His reporting is funded by the Government of Canada through its Local Journalism Initiative.

Residents gathered online on June 12 to discuss the proposal which will see 16 residential units added to the community. The units will consist of one single-bedroom unit; one two-bedroom; six two-bedroom units with a den; six three-bedroom units; and two three-bedroom units with a den.

At the moment, it is unclear whether these units will be for rent or sold as the building’s tenure is yet to be decided by the applicant, according to Chung.

The biggest concern raised by those in attendance was

He also suggested that the neighbourhood is “extremely well served by transit” as well as having many bike paths and doesn’t require as many parking spaces as perhaps residents living in a more suburban environment. But, one community member said that this theory doesn’t account for the winter months when biking isn’t an option for most.

However, another resident highlighted the essential nature of parking spaces in such a building since the applicant is marketing it to people with families with children. She said this because the applicant said the aim of this building is to provide housing in the “missing middle”, a term to describe the lack of low-rise, single family homes, and mid rise

Another issued raised at the meeting was affordability. Amanda, a resident at the current site which provides affordable units for families said that although it hasn’t been decided whether the building’s units will be for rent or sale, it would be “heartbreaking” for the city to greenlight tearing down affordable units and replacing them with condos. “Potentially, you’re demolishing affordable housing with yard space for families to build condominiums,” she said. “I think that’s something that needs to be addressed.”

Although unable to speak on the current lack of affordable units in the plan, Chan said that the city has secured special needs compensation, rental assistance and moveout allowances for current tenants of 9 Benlamond Ave. as required by city policy.

Beach Memories

Readers asked for help in finding info about Kew ladies softball team

gene DoMAgAlA Beach Memories

I’ve written many articles about sports activities in the Beach area over the past decades in Beach Metro Community News.

This column, however, is a personal issue where I need the help of my fellow Beachers.

This is about baseball, especially about the games that were played in Kew Gardens some 90 years ago – specifically in the summer moths of July and August of 1933.

While watching a game at the ball

diamond in Kew Gardens recently, I was speaking to a couple of the local baseball players and I mentioned to them that 90 years ago approximately 10,000 people turned out to watch a game at that very diamond.

The baseball players I was talking to looked at me in amazement as I explained to them that one of our greatest Beach athletes (and a sports writer for the Toronto Telegram and later the Toronto Sun) by the name of Ted Reeve had put together a team for game between the Ted Reeve All Stars and members of the Toronto Maple Leafs hockey team.

It was one of many charitable events that Ted Reeve organized and held. Apparently, that game with the Toronto Maple Leafs raised a total of $237.

I also told the baseball players I was talking to that there was once a ladies softball team playing at Kew Gardens that would draw thousands of fans to its games.

My issue, and where I need help, my fellow Beachers, is that I am trying to locate the descendants of the players who were on the Kew ladies softball team back in the 1930s.

If anyone who has a link to those past players, or more information on the team, could they please contact me by sending an email to Beach Metro Community News editor Alan Shackleton at editor@beachmetro.com or by dropping off a note or letter to the newspaper’s office at 2196 Gerrard St. E.

Thank you, and sportfully yours!

Scarborough Players’ production of Arms and the Man set to open on June 30

THE SCARBOROUGH Players’ production of Arms and the Man opens this Friday, June 30, at Scarborough Village Theatre, 3600 Kingston Rd..

What do a Swiss mercenary who uses his pistol holder to carry chocolates, an idealistic young woman with little worldly experience, her less than faithful fiancé and a social climbing headstrong and flirtatious maid have in common? Since the successful 1894 premiere of Arms and the Man, audiences have delighted in discovering the answer.

George Bernard Shaw’s sharp satire and good humour guide us to revisit our notions of fidelity, romantic love, and the nobility of war. It is considered one of Shaw’s most beloved comedies.

The title is derived from the Latin phrase which opens Virgil’s Aeneid an epic poem that glorifies war. Translated in English is reads: “Of arms and the man, I sing”. Shaw’s use of this phrase, likely very well known in the late Victorian period as Latin was an obligatory subject, to satirize the futility of war and the hypocrisy of human nature has been celebrated since the show opened

in 1894. The war and battle used in the original production would have been known to those Victorian audiences.

In the play, Shaw explores the nature of tangled loyalties and allegiances using somewhat ridiculous people to stand in for countries.

Scarborough Players welcomes back director Larry Westlake who is enjoying the opportunity to bring this play to life. His most recent work was directing Jake’s Women for Scarborough Theatre Guild.

Joining Westlake as producer is Alison Overington. June Watkins is taking the reigns as Stage Manager with help from Tony Jones as Assistant Stage Manager. New to the production team is Patsy Hamilton-Diabo creating props, Jasmyn Jaykes creating the sound design, and John Sellens lighting the show. Returning to do their magic are Greg Nowlan as set designer and master carpenter, Mary Nowlan and Katherine Turner finding costumes. Gloria King designing hair and make-up.

The cast includes Players’ veteran actor, Holm Bradwell as Bluntschli last seen as Jack Forrester in Storm Warn-

ing along with David Eden from the Curious Incident now as Major Petkoff.

New to Scarborough Players are Stefanie Goldhar as the less worldly Raina, Sarah Gazzola as the worldly servant, Louka, Kerri Henman as Catherine Petkof, the matriarch, Lucas Blakely as Sergius as the less than faithful fiancé, Caleb Upshaw as Nicola the servant, and Kevin McDonnell making his debut after working for the last few years building sets.

Arms and the Man is on stage at Scarborough Village Theatre from June 30 to July 15.

To order tickets, or for more information, visit www.theatrescarborough. com/scarboroughplayers or call 416267-9292. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Theatre Scarborough’s three member organizations — Scarborough Players, Scarborough Music Theatre and Scarborough Theatre Guild— have been presenting high-caliber community theatre for a combined total of over 180 years. Each season, the groups present 11 productions — dramas, thrillers, musicals and comedies.

Beach Metro Community News Lucky Volunteer for June 27

This edition, Beach Metro Community News extends its thanks to Lynda Rajkumar who is our June 27 Lucky Volunteer.

Back in the 1980s, Lynda was street captain for Beach Metro Community News. Later, she took on the Malvern Avenue delivery route.

“I have always volunteered in some way as part of our community,” she said. “Beach Metro News is where I am now.”

Along with our thanks, Lynda receives a gift certificate to Fearless Meat restaurant. She will be donating the gift card to Community Centre 55.

If you would like to become a Beach Metro Community News volunteer carrier, please email our Distribution Manager, Melinda Drake at melinda@beachmetro.com for more info.

Kew Beach Lawn Bowling Club’s open house welcomes new players, highlights fun of sport

By Jessica Shackleton

KEW BEACH Lawn Bowl-

ing Club was full of excitement on Saturday, June 17, as the club hosted an open house and welcomed people from the neighbourhood and beyond to come in and try the sport.

With one membership, the club’s members enjoy both croquet and lawn bowling during the outdoor summer season from May to October.

Esther Ashby and her husband Stephen have been club members since 2018. Neither had ever lawn bowled before but are now heavily involved in both the social and competitive aspects of the club.

An avid soccer player, Stephen suggested they join the club to take up another sport. “My soccer skills don’t transfer, but my golf game has improved,” he said.

As the membership coordinator, Esther comes up with incentives for people to join the club. One of them is themed games including black tie, tie-dye, and solstice bowls.

“It makes it more fun,” she said.

The purpose of the open house was to give onlookers and visitors a chance to see what the club is all about and encourage new members to join. It included a tour of the clubhouse and an active session of both lawn bowling and croquet.

“Lawn bowling was really popular in the 1970s, and we’re always trying to attract a younger group,” said Esther.

Genevieve Landry and Michael Bouliane are the newest members of Kew Beach Lawn Bowling Club. After walking by the club often, they finally decided to join this season.

“It’s a good deal and a flexible schedule…and it’s fun,” said Landry. “The people are great and caring, patient members.”

Though it can be competitive, encouraging new players and keeping the sport going is most important. “It’s a really fun, lovely thing to do and the location is fantastic,” said Bouliane.

The sport has aspects similar to curling but unlike the winter sport, the target moves. The goal is to have your biased, weighted side, ball closest to the jack, which is a smaller white ball that can be knocked into a different position.

Team numbers and mem-

bers are flexible. There is a system called the jitney that groups different teams in each game.

Echoed throughout for those at the open house was how great the people are at the Kew Beach club. Julie Demers, who coaches croquet, and Ashby were both fantastic coaches whose passion was evident to all who took part.

Located steps from the waters of Lake Ontario and the Boardwalk, the club is in the centre of a very popular spot for walkers. And that is how many of those taking part first became familiar with the club.

Marilena said she had never lawn bowled before, but passes the club all the time and was curious about the sport.

“I wanted to see if it was as fun as it looks,” she said.

After learning how to

hold the ball and roll it a few times, she understood the sport’s draw.

“I can see how it’s addicting because you always want to improve,” said Marilena.

There are men’s and women’s leagues as well as tournaments and open bowling and croquet running on Saturdays.

The club also hosts corporate events and rents its space out. This year marks the club’s 115th year of the Kew Beach Lawn Bowling Club.

It’s never too late to learn something new and the club is welcoming and willing to share their love for all parts of the sport.

As Bouliane said, “If you’ve walked by, come and try it.”

For more information on the Kew Beach Lawn Bowling Club, please visit https:// kewbeachlbc.ca

Birchmount Stadium among locations hosting Robbie International Soccer Tournament games

events there will be The Robbie All Star Game between Team Julian De Guzman And Team Dwayne De Rosario at Birchmount Stadium at 1 p.m.

of tourney organizer John Wimbs, who had Cystic Fibrosis.

Over the years, the tournament has raised close to $2 million for Cystic Fibrosis Canada.

The tournament, for teams ages 13 to 18, takes place from Saturday July 1, through until Championship Day on Monday, July 3.

Birchmount Stadium in southwest Scarborough, often referred to as the “Home of the Robbie”, will play host to a number of the championship games on July 3.

As part of the Championship Day

Both De Guzman and De Rosario are former Canadian national teammates who grew up in Scarborough and played in The Robbie as kids.

Since its inception in 1967, The Robbie has raised funds for Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Those attending the All-Star Game on July 3 are asked to make a donation of $5 to Cystic Fibrosis Canada.

The Robbie tournament is named after Robbie Wimbs, who was the son

Along with Championship Day at Birchmount Stadium, other local fields hosting Robbie matches this weekend will be Highview Park, in the Kingston and Kennedy roads area; the Cherry Beach Soccer Fields in the Port Lands, and Monarch Park Stadium at Monarch Park Collegiate.

For more information, please visit: https://therobbie.ca/

PHOTO: JESSICA SHACKLETON

Julie Demers gives a lesson on how to play croquet during the Kew Beach Lawn Bowling Club’s open house on June 17.

THE 55TH annual Robbie International Soccer Tournament and Festival takes place this coming weekend with games slated for a number of East Toronto fields.

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Ads must be paid for at time of placement. Classified ads also appear on our website: www.beachmetro.com The advertiser is responsible for checking the accuracy of the advertisement after the first insertion. Beach Metro News is not liable for errors and non-insertions in subsequent issues. Beach Metro News accepts advertising in good faith and does not endorse any advertisers or advertisements.

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