Beach Metro Community News October 3, 2023

Truth and Reconciliation ceremony at Kempton Howard Park

Kingston Road Village Fall Festival set for Oct. 14

THE ANNUAL Kingston Road Village Fall Festival will take place on Saturday, Oct. 14.

The celebration of autumn takes place along Kingston Road between Victoria Park Avenue and Main Street from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The festival will feature live music performances, face painting and crafts for kids, and more.

There will also be a Kids Scavenger Hunt, centred on the area between Victoria Park and Beech Avenue. The Scavenger Hunt will have a charitable angle as those taking part are asked to drop off a non-perishable food item when they pick up their “hunt sheet” at either Naturally Yours (919 Kingston Rd.) or Hand and Stone (974 Kingston Rd.).

For those feeling lucky, raffle tickets for gift baskets will be available at Ella Minnow Books. All proceeds from the raffle will go to the Grace Pascoe Food Bank, helping to give back to the East Toronto community in a meaningful way.

A Truth and Reconciliation ceremony hosted by the Blake Street Junior Public School community was held on the evening of Friday, Sept. 29, at Kempton Howard Park. A sacred fire was lit and a smudging ceremony conducted by Chickadee and Thunderbird was held as part of the event observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation that takes place annually on Sept. 30. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation recognizes the legacy of Canada’s Residential School system and the devastating impact it has had on Indigenous peoples.

Everyone is invited to celebrate fall, explore local businesses along Kingston Road and enjoy the flavours of the autumn season.

Robert Gore named Beach Citizen of the Year for 2023

By Erin Horrocks-Pope

IN THE heart of the Beach community, a hero often walks among ussomeone who dedicates their time, energy, and passion to selfless civic activities that improve the lives of those around them. This year, the Beach Citizen of the Year Award honours Robert (Bob) Gore, an extraordinary individual whose commitment has left an indelible mark on the community.

The Beach Citizen of the Year Award, founded and presented by Community Centre 55, the Beaches Lions Club, and Beach Metro Community News, has been honouring

local heroes since 2001. Each recipient embodies the spirit of giving and selflessness, contributing significantly to the betterment of the Beach community.

Gore’s journey to becoming the 2023 Beach Citizen of the Year is a testament to a lifetime dedicated to community support and improvement. Nominated by Bill Sinclair, CEO of The Neighbourhood Group Community Services, Gore’s extensive contributions to various organizations speak volumes about his impact.

Sinclair’s nomination letter encapsulates Gore’s character: “Anyone who has had the pleasure of

working with Bob will tell you that he’s very humble and makes his numerous contributions to the community without fanfare, but I can share with you that The Neighbourhood Group Community Services is what it is today in no small part because of Bob’s contributions. We are indebted to him for his years of commitment, dedication, service, and generosity. The Beaches area, and indeed the City of Toronto, is fortunate to have benefited from Bob’s extensive impact on our community.”

While many in the Beach community may recognize Gore as their friendly neighbourhood ac-

countant, his contributions extend far beyond the world of finance. For more than three decades, his office, Robert Gore and Associates CPA, located on Kingston Road near Fallingbrook Avenue, has been a cornerstone of support and service.

Gore combines his business insight, financial literacy, and accounting skills with his profound passion for community service. His advocacy extends to the most vulnerable, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs met to strengthen the fabric of our society.

One of Gore’s most notable roles is as the current board chair of Continued on Page 5 Robert Gore is the 2023 Beach Citizen of the Year.

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PHOTO: ALAN SHACKLETON

Lake swimmers celebrate the life of Beacher Christopher Hope

By Sam Heffer

IT’S 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 24, and the sun is shining on the waves as they meet the beach at the foot of Silverbirch Avenue. It’s breezy, about 16C. The water temperature is 15C.

These stats matter to the group of about 25 people who are gathering to go for a dip in the lake. Many of us have never met each other before, but we already have a meaningful connection and shared inspiration through 85-yearold Christopher Hope.

Sadly, Chris passed away

earlier this summer. He went for a dip in the ocean near West Vancouver, and never returned.

His friend Carlos invited everyone to meet on the beach this morning to celebrate Chris.

The first time the two men met, Chris said, “I am the happiest person alive, because this moment is the happiest moment of my life.”

For Carlos, this is the essence of Chris. And now we will dip where Carlos and other friends went into the lake year round. Thank you, Carlos!

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Chris inspired all of us directly, or indirectly, to embrace his Morning Dip routine.

He was a familiar figure walking the short distance from his home on Silverbirch Avenue to the lake in every kind of weather imaginable. He wore his navy blue bathrobe, sometimes a bathing cap, and his water shoes.

Friends of Chris’ from the Toronto Windsurfing Club introduced him to the idea of going into the lake every day, in every season. Chris added this practice to his long list of activities and accomplishments. These include scubadiving, mountain climbing in South America, summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, trekking to Everest Base Camp, and taking up snowboarding –because it looked like fun!

Chris’ two daughters also joined us on the beach on Sunday morning, and explained that their dad “… liked to do things. He always had an interest in new things. He liked to understand how things worked … He did the research.”

The word they felt best summed up their dad was “Curiosity.”

In conversations with

friends, Chris would say, “Happiness is the recognition of being alive, of being sentient …You’ve got a wonderful world around you; a totally amazing place! … There’s nothing better than being right here, right now!!”

And yes, Chris would say this even as he stood in his swimsuit in the icy waters of Lake Ontario in the middle of a snowstorm.

We stood in a circle on the beach, and shared our thoughts about Chris before heading into the lake together this Sunday morning, and Carlos expressed the gratitude we all felt: “Chris didn’t try to teach me anything. I feel like his life was the teaching. All those beautiful memories about him — they’re in my heart. And now I’m grateful that we’re all together, and this is a beautiful memory … I appreciate every one.”

“Well,” another friend spoke up, “I know one thing, that Chris was a stickler for getting in at exactly 7:40 a.m. He waited for nobody. We’re at 7:39! It’s time to go in.”

Amid cheers and much joie de vivre, we joined hands and went into the lake. Thank you, Chris.

PHOTO: SUSAN LEGGE

Friends of Christopher Hope gathered by the lake at the foot of Silverbirch Avenue on Sept. 24 to celebrate the life of the 85-year-old Beach resident. Sam Heffer is in the middle holding hands with Jeff, a long-time dipping buddy of Chris, waving at Carlos (in the water just to Heffer’s left) and Fauna (windsurfing connection and long-time friend of Chris) to the right, with her hands on her head, smiling.

Christopher Hope is seen swimming in Lake Ontario on a cold winter’s day in 2021 in this Beach Metro Community News file photo.

Annual Lola’s Dip set for Oct. 22

THE THIRD annual Lola’s Dip is slated to take place in Lake Ontario on Sunday, Oct. 22.

Held in memory of Lola Bower, the event is a fundraiser for Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children in which participants gather in the Beach to take a plunge into Lake Ontario.

This year’s dip will take place from 1 to 4 p.m.

Participants are asked to gather at Lola’s Bench on the Boardwalk, which is just a little bit east of the Donald D Summerville pool.

Those attending are not obliged to take a dip into the lake or to make a cash do-

nation while they are at the event.

“If there was a visible example of what a supportive community looks like, it would be this. You don’t have to dip in the lake. You don’t have to donate to attend. You can just come and witness love,” said the poster for this year’s dip.

Lola’s Dip is held in memory of Lola Bower who died at the age of 16 days in 2015 due to an enlarged heart. The dip is always held on a weekend day close to the date of Lola’s birthday on Oct. 23.

Every year since, her family (parents Geoff and Ofelia, and sister Mar) have held a

fundraiser for SickKids in Lola’s memory.

In previous year’s they did a walk in the community, but since 2021 they have decided to do Lola’s Dip into the lake. A huge crowd turned out for the event to remember Lola and support SickKids.

There will be live music, food, speeches and surprises at this year’s Lola’s Dip, organizers said.

Among the local sponsors for this year’s Lola’s Dip are the Shea Sells Boutique.

For more information on Lola’s Dip and the ways that you can support it, please go to https://fundraise.sickkidsfoundation.com/lola

Danforth Collegiate set to celebrate 100 years

DANFORTH COLLE-

GIATE and Technical Institute (DCTI) will celebrate its 100th anniversary on the weekend of Oct. 27 and 28.

On Saturday, Oct. 28, from 12:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., a variety of events are being planned.

There will be an official opening ceremony, an open house of the school featuring

decade rooms, and musical performances by a number of special guests including Thompson Egbo-Egbo. There will also be studentalumni volleyball and basketball games, and much more.

An open house at the school from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 27 is also

planned.

Located at 800 Greenwood Ave., just north of Danforth Avenue, the school first opened its doors to students in September of 2023 and its official opening ceremony was held in October of that year. For more on the DCTI celebrations, go to www.danforthcti.com/centennial

Group aims to boost voter turnout in Scarborough Southwest byelection

By Amarachi Amadike, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

IN 2022, Toronto generated some of its lowest voter turnouts during the October municipal election with only 29.7 per cent of eligible voters casting their ballot. Months later, after the resignation of then mayor John Tory, a mayoral byelection took place in June of 2023 with a turnout that, although still low, garnered more public attention with 38 per cent of the more than 1.89 million eligible voters in Toronto participating.

And with Ward 20 Scarborough Southwest now gearing up for a byelection for city councillor on Nov. 30, community groups are hopeful that a similar trend of increased voter turnout will be seen.

The councillor byelection became necessary due to the resignation of Scarborough Southwest Councillor Gary Crawford who relinquished his seat earlier this year in order to run for the Progressive Conservatives in the July 27 byelection held for the vacant ScarboroughGuildwood MPP position. That provincial byelection was won by Liberal Andrea Hazell.

Scarborough United Neighbourhoods (SUN), a non-partisan public policy group of local residents, is urging voters in Scarborough Southwest to make their voices heard as they

Local Journalism Initiative

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.

attempt to generate more interest in the Nov. 30 byelection.

“If we get an 80 per cent turnout, then whoever wins will realize that people are (watching closely),” said Ron Parkinson, a member of SUN and lifelong southwest Scarborough resident.

He told Beach Metro Community News that SUN is collaborating with various community groups in neighbourhoods such as Scarborough Junction, Birchcliff, Warden Woods and Cliffcrest in order to encourage eligible residents to vote in the byelection.

“We’ll also be hosting a ‘market place’ before November so that we can get information (about candidates) to people,” said Parkinson.

At that event candidates will have the opportunity to meet with residents to further explain their campaign platforms, he said. Participants will be able to address candidates directly in a faceto-face interaction, added Parkinson. A time and date for that event has yet to be finalized.

SUN is also preparing to obtain voter information from the City of Toronto to distribute throughout Ward 20 as well as confirming various other candidate meetings which residents can attend as part of their community engagement strategy.

“Talking to the group leaders, they are very adamant

and excited about getting people to vote because we don’t want to have someone who becomes our next councillor with just 3,000 votes,” said Parkinson.

In the October 2022 municipal election, Crawford was elected councillor for Scarborough Southwest for his fourth term in a row with 8,216 votes. A total of eight candidates sought the seat, and the voter turnout was 32.2 per cent. In the 2018 municipal election, voter turnout in Scarborough Southwest was 40.8 per cent.

Although byelections generally draw less attention from voters, many candidates have shown interest in becoming Scarborough Southwest’s next councillor.

As of noon on Friday, Sept. 29, 14 people had registered to run for the position.

Candidates who have put their names in so far are Malik Ahmad, Corey David, Malika Ghous, Thomas Hall, Jessica Hines, Marzia Hoque, Alamgir Hussain, Parthi Kandavel, Abbullah Al Mamun, Suman Roy, Kevin Rupasinghe, Sudip Shome, Anna Sidiropoulos and Trevor Sutton.

Kandavel finished second to Crawford in the 2022 municipal election and Rupasinghe was third. Also, Ghous is the Toronto District School Board trustee for Scarborough Southwest, elected to that position for the first time in the 2022 municipal election.

There is a deadline of 2 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 16, for candidates to register to run in the Scarborough Southwest councillor byelection.

Parkinson said that with much of Toronto dealing with the impacts of an affordability crisis, more work is necessary to maintain a healthy level of community engagement in the political process.

“People that are marginal, working multiple jobs and going to the food banks, don’t have much trust in the politicians or politics,” he said. “They don’t think they have a vote. Many residents are too busy or too frustrated with politics to think that they can make a difference.”

Scarborough United Neighbourhoods aims to eradicate this perception within the community as well as removing the idea of partisanship from municipal politics.

“It shouldn’t be about parties,” said Parkinson. “A lot of people will vote just because of a colour instead of voting for the person who is really going to support you. We want people that are going to represent and support our community.”

— 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.

Leslieville girls hosts second Evangeline Walks event to help Covenant House

LESLIEVILLE’S EVANGELINE Link will be spending this upcoming Thanksgiving long weekend doing what she did at the same time last year, going on a marathon walk to raise funds to help young people in need.

The second annual Evangeline Walks event will see the Grade 7 student walk 100 kilometres in support of Covenant House.

She will start the walk just outside Hamilton and head back to her Toronto home, a distance of 100 kilometres.

In 2022, Link walked 91 kilometres from her grandparents house in Binbrook, near Hamilton, to her Leslieville

home. This year the distance has increased to 100 killometres.

Last year’s walk raised $6,000, and this year’s fundraising target is $10,000.

Covenant House Toronto helps to protect and rebuild the lives of young people facing challenges related to homelessness.

Link will be accompanied on the walk, taking place over four days on the Thanksgiving weekend, by family members and friends.

To support Link on her fundraising walk for Covenant House, please go to https://covenanthousetorontoevents.ca/ui/

creatingthepossible/p/evangelineswalk2023

St. John Henry Newman Catholic High School celebrates 50 years LOCAL RESIDENTS who attended what is now St. John Henry Newman Catholic High School are invited to a 50th anniversary celebration on Friday, Oct. 13.

Order tickets at https:// sites.google.com/view/newmans50th/home.

Tickets will also be available at the door for $50. Those attending must be age 19 or older. The celebration starts at 6 p.m. at the school, 100 Brimley Rd, south of Kingston Road.

Ceremony planned for Oct. 21

‘Robert’ from Page 1 Neighbourhood Link Homes. Over the past two decades, he has tirelessly volunteered and advocated for affordable and ethical housing - a critical issue in Toronto that affects countless individuals and families daily.

In the past, Gore has also run tax clinics at Community Centre 55, providing assistance to community members navigating complex tax matters. His involvement extends to fundraising for Michael Garron Hospital in East York, where his efforts have contributed to improved healthcare services for the community.

But Gore’s contributions are not limited to specific organizations; his impact is felt throughout the community. He played an instrumental role in founding the Beach Business Improvement Area (BIA).

When asked about his motivation for volunteering and his philosophy of giving back, Gore reflected on the importance of gratitude and the value of sharing.

“The concept of being charitable with your time and your money... well, it’s never bad,” he said. “And, I wish that more people, particularly those lucky enough to have good fortune in their lives, could stop. Just stop

and look around. Be thankful and understand the value of sharing some of what they have could mean to others. Whether it’s time, money, or a combination of both.”

Gore’s journey of giving back found its initial spark during a visit to a seniors’ home, where he witnessed the limited care options and engagement available to residents. This experience ignited his passion for inclusiveness and the belief that everyone in the community is essential.

“The inclusiveness of everyone in the community and remembering how important it is that everybody is important,” he emphasized. “There are a lot of people who run the risk of being left in a corner and forgotten, and organizations like Neighbourhood Link can make the quality of life a bit better.”

Receiving the Beach Citizen of the Year Award places Gore among a distinguished group of past recipients, including Gene Domagala, Suzanne Beard, John Ellis, Sheila Blinoff and Carole Stimmell. As he reflects on this honour, he admitted to feeling humbled by the recognition, given the impressive legacy of previous winners.

“It feels pretty amazing,”

said Gore. “I know some of the people named on that Walk of Fame, and now I’m pinching myself thinking, ‘Gee, did I do enough to join their ranks? Did I try enough?’ Because some of those people have been, or were, real forever fixtures in the neighbourhood - seemingly involved in everything. So, it’s a surprise and a fabulous feeling to join that group of people.”

Beyond his philanthropic endeavours, Gore finds joy in spending time with family and friends. Together with his wife, Mary, they host events in their home to fundraise for the arts and students, reflecting Mary’s passion. Robert also enjoys riding his bike in the east end, supporting local businesses, and indulging in his recent love for race car driving.

Gore exemplifies the profound impact that one individual can have on a community. His legacy inspires others, reminding us of the transformative power of compassion, dedication, and the unwavering belief in the value of community.

The Beach Citizen of the Year Investiture Ceremony will take place on the afternoon of Saturday, Oct. 21, at Woodbine Park’s Millennium Garden.

Fed’s fight with tech giants knocks out Beach Metro

SuSan legge Publisher & General Manager Beach Metro Community News

In the ever-shrinking landscape of Canadian news media, small, non-profit community newspapers like ours are sailing in uncharted waters since the passage of the Online News Act (Bill C-18) by the federal government in June.

This new legislation, set to take effect in December, requires Meta and Google to negotiate agreements with Canadian news publishers regarding compensation for the use of news story links on their platforms.

Promoted by major Canadian news media as a way to restore equitable competition for advertising revenue lost to these two tech giants, both Meta or Google want amendments made to the law, or else...

For consumers who follow us, and other media outlets on

Meta’s Facebook and Instagram platforms, you know they serve as important conduits for sharing news.

For us, it’s a place to connect with the community and provide links to news items on our website that don’t make our print pages. We were making strides with our digital advertising products and building our Instagram following, too — until we weren’t.

While covering a story in August about a city-wide uptick in off-leash dog incidents, I attempted to livestream a city press event on our Instagram account. It was unresponsive.

Our Canada Summer Jobsfunded reporter, Nafisat Alao, a Centennial College journalism intern, showed me her phone featuring our Instagram account with a stark message: “People in Canada can’t see this content.” Our account was blocked.

Shortly after that, our Facebook account vanished. No explanation, just a blank page.

Years of content, including photos, videos, and links to count-

less news stories, all disappeared. Needless to say, we were devastated.

Meta had fired the anticipated warning shot by blocking news content on their platforms to comply with the legislation in alignment with their warning back in June.

Even more concerning is Google’s threat that Canadian news will vanish from its search results before the end of year, adamantly refusing to pay a “link tax.”

So, what is the Beach Metro Community News doing about what could become a very bleak period for local journalism?

We’ve been putting our efforts into reaching our digital audience a different way.

In response to the blockade, I implore you to subscribe to our email newsletter, conveniently delivered to your inbox. It’s free, informative, and will bridge the gap between our bi-weekly print editions.

To subscribe, simply visit our website, beachmetro.com, and click on the newsletter button

to fill out the form. A confirmation message will validate your subscription, and you may opt out at any time.

I commend the Canadian government’s intention behind this bill as a step to legitimate compensation and revenue sharing and thus a more accountable and diverse media landscape. And I commend the support of Beach Metro Community News by local MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith.

However, the larger newspaper conglomerates have held sway at the table with government officials, shaping the legislation to align with their interests.

We, on the other hand, haven’t enjoyed this privilege. And we cannot survive the loss of a circulation presence indefinitely on Meta and Google platforms like big media.

Independent local newspapers play a vital role in communities, providing a platform for grassroots voices, highlighting local issues, and fostering community engagement.

The closure of 70 weekly Metroland community newspapers

last month may not be because of Google or Meta’s refusal to compensate publishers, as our editor Alan Shackleton suggested in his column on Sept. 19, but the devastating effects these tech companies have had on our revenue cannot be ignored.

The government must take proactive steps to include small publishers in discussions, address their unique challenges, and ensure that the regulatory framework promotes innovation, diversity and local representation.

While we’re on the topic of ad revenue, I encourage the companies who relied on Metroland newspapers to please consider local newspapers, like ours, for advertising opportunities.

We know our community champions local causes, and we remain steadfast in the pursuit of local news.

Your support is greatly appreciated. To become a Beach Metro Community News Supporter, please go to https://beachmetro. com/donations/support-beachmetro-news

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Letters to the Editor

Column made excellent points regarding community newspapers

Re: ‘Closure of Metroland’s weekly papers proves bad ownership is biggest threat to the future of Canadian journalism,’ In My Opinion, Beach Metro Community News, Sept. 19.

The column made some excellent points on the death of the Metroland newspapers.

It reminded me of back in March, 1961, when I dropped out of the journalism program at Ryerson and went to work for $40 a week at the Thomson-owned Barrie Examiner

That’s where I quickly learned that adver-

tising rules the game.

I wrote a man on the street piece about shopping in Barrie – five comments under five pictures.

“Hemlines are always below or above where they should be,” one woman said. “There’s nowhere to park,” a male said. “I do all my main shopping in Toronto,” said another.

A few hours after the paper first hit the streets, Bob Shannon, the stringer for the Telegram, was at a newspaper box at the

south end of town. A truck pulled up and the driver took all of the newspapers out of the box and replaced them with new ones.

“You shouldn’t be reading that,” he said rather sternly, pointing to the newspaper in startled Bob Shannon’s hands. They had replaced my man on the street piece with a picture of the RCAF’s exhibition flying team.

Later that day, the advertising manager approached me and said rather gingerly, “being from Ryerson and all that”, I was probably wondering what happened.

He got that one right. And then he said they’d received some very angry calls from the local merchants and my piece about what a lousy shopping experience Barrie was just simply had to go.

Lord Thomson didn’t make his billions ticking off advertisers.

When I was an editor at the St. Catharines Standard and the Edmonton Journal, the ads were already on the layout pages. Whatever news there was that day had to fit the column

Letters to the Editor

Apology and condemnation of House of Commons applause for man who served with Nazi Waffen SS sought by resident from Beaches-East York MP

I am writing about the disgraceful spectacle at the House of Commons where the houseful of MPs gave a standing ovation to a man who served with the Nazi Waffen SS in the Second World War.

As of this writing, an official of the Government of Poland said steps have been taken to seek the extradition for war crimes of Yaroslav Hunka.

For those readers who might be unaware: Waffen SS Galicia Division of volunteer Nazi idealists in which Hunka served committed war crimes and ethnic cleansing of Jews, Poles, Russians

and other groups deemed “subhuman”.

It has been several days and as far as I am aware our neighbourhood’s federal representative (Beaches-East York MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith) has not yet condemned the heinous act at the House of Commons.

Let us remember that silence of good ordinary people gave rise to Hitler and resulted in the Holocaust.

I would like Erskine-Smith to prove that my grandparents’ (one who fought on the battlefields and one who languished in Auschwitz), as well as hundreds of thousands of Canadians who

fought Nazis, did not shed blood in vain.

I am calling on him to distance himself from the event that took place at the House of Commons, to publicly apologize and to condemn his MP colleagues for cheering a former member of this genocidal unit. Else I expect Erskine-Smith’s resignation as he has no place representing this neighbourhood, province or country.

To our local MP I repeat: Apologize and move on, or resign. Silence will not do.

Jacek Krol

Numbers on unleashed dogs are substantiated by city information and personal observations

Re: ‘True facts in letter on unleashed dogs questioned by reader’, Letters, Beach Metro Community News, Sept. 19.

Thank you to the letter-writer for commenting on the information I provided on Sept. 5, 2023 with my Letter to the Editor responding to the original letter “Unleashed dogs focus of city campaign”, Beach Metro Community News, Aug. 22, 2023

I wholeheartedly encourage proof to be provided that my numbers are exaggerated.

Unfortunately, my numbers do substantiate my findings and my research and comments have come from City of Toronto websites and staff, including some Directors of their departments.

May I please add that I would not knowingly write anything that was not true.

Here are the facts:

• Regular dog owners were letting their dogs loose on the Dune and Meadow Habitat this spring to hunt and kill birds. People can come see for themselves next spring that this is happening. This was reported to 311, specifically bylaw. Police don’t handle these cases. This is no different than the foxes recently being killed on the Boardwalk

as well as the minks, squirrels, rabbits......... that constantly get killed in Ashbridges Bay Park.

• In 2017, I, over the period of a year, on my pretty much every other day of walking at Ashbridges observed and was able to roughly estimate that 83,000 dogs were off leash from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. This was based on a half hour walk around the park. Try this yourself. I think the worst day was 27, so 27 X 24 (1/2 hour periods)=729 unleashed dogs for that day.

• I stand by my statement of costing the taxpayers roughly $40,000,000 for the installation and maintenance of our 75 off-leash dog parks since their inception 25 years ago. It is a shame that the city can’t provide the true numbers as asked in a Freedom Of Information request. You must understand, as I also found it hard to believe, that these off -leash parks cost so much but they require design, clearing of land, a special drainage system of some sort, fencing, proper ground or surface material suitable for dogs and people, signage, plantings..., not simply signs as the letter-writer offered. The maintenance of these parks and the materials that go into their building goes far beyond emptying garbage bins as stated. Please

Evangeline Walks

reach out to the City of Toronto to see what is required and/or what TorontoCentre Councillor Chris Moise is now asking for in his proposal of improving the off-leash dog parks.

Once again, this annual average maintenance fee of $10,000 per park came from the City of Toronto. So you know, I was told by our previous Beaches-East York Councilor that our ward has its quota of off-leash dog parks and we will not be getting any more. Will this change?

• The City of Toronto provides 75 OffLeash Dog Parks (so far) as seen on its website. Councillor Moise states this amount also.

All being said, it’s not the dog’s fault being off leash, but the owners. If I was a dog I would like to run free. Wouldn’t you? That’s what the DOLAs or Dog Off Leash Parks are for.

To make matters even worse, if that’s possible, I have heard that on Wednesday, Sept. 27, during an altercation of some sort between two men in Barbara Hall Park, a dog was shot.

The public can’t take anymore and this is what it has unfortunately come to now.

Clyde Robinson

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Community Calendar

proudly presented by Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford

OCT. 5: Seniors Active Living Fair at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hosted by The Neighbourhood Group in partnership with OACAO and funded by the Ontario Government. Informative presentations, entertainment, information tables from local agencies and businesses, and free refreshments. Info: Joselen Liguori 647- 883 -8430, Joselen.Liguori@tngcs.org

OCT. 9: Oktoberfest at RCL Branch 11, 9 Dawes Rd. Club Room, 1-7 p.m.

Entertainment: DJ David Russell, 2-6 p.m. Sausage on a bun, potato salad, sauerkraut and desert $10 p/p - cut off for meal tickets is Oct. 6. Branch open after 1 p.m. and speak to the Bar Steward 416-699-1353

OCT 11: An Evening with Concert Pianist: Oleg Samokhin sponsored by Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., 7 p.m. A fundraiser concert for the people of Ukraine. Funds raised will be donated to the Sunnybrook Hospital Foundation’s Ukraine Surgical Educational and Training Partnership with three hospitals in Lviv, Ukraine. Freewill Offering, minimum $30 donation at the door recommended. Info: beachunitedchurch.com

OCT. 11: Scarborough Garden & Horticultural Society Meeting at Scarborough Village Recreation Centre (Kingston/Markham Rds.), 7:30 p.m. Free presentation by expert arborist David Bostock on pruning trees, shrubs, selections, soil, plant health care advice and more. Complimentary refreshments. Guests welcome.

ers, mentorship, opportunities to share your work, photo excursions, competitions, practical seminars and more! We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month from September to June, 7-9:30 p.m., at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave. (unless specified in program). Info: beachphotoclub.com or email beachphotoclub@gmail.com

F8 PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTIVE presents ‘On the Move: Exploring Transportation’ at the Clark Centre for the Arts, 191 Guildwood Parkway, MondaySunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. until Oct. 30. Opening reception Oct. 7 from 1-3 p.m. Meet the Artists Oct. 21 from 1-3 p.m. Info: John Wallace ziggydoodle9815@ gmail.com, www.f8photographycollective.com

FALL FOOD DRIVE - Calvary Baptist Church Food Bank. Please help neighbours in need. Donations can be dropped off at Calvary Baptist Church, 72 Main St., on Wednesdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. or Thursdays 5-6 p.m., and/ or make a donation (for a tax receipt) to Calvary Baptist Church (note it is for the food bank). Most needed items are: canned fish (tuna, salmon), pasta sauce, canned beans, cereal and oatmeal, peanut butter, canned fruit and vegetables. Please check expiry dates prior to making donations. Info: www.gracepascoefoodbank.ca

BEACH INTERFAITH OUTREACH FELLOWSHIP

EAST TORONTO RCL BRANCH 11

October:

the month of

S�����, O��. 29

club room 1:00-7:00pm meal served 4:00 pm

Nathaniel Erskine-Smith M.P. Beaches-East York info@ beynate.ca 416 . 467. 0860

9 DAWES RD. 416-699-1353

OCT. 13: 50th anniversary of St. John Henry Newman High School, 100 Brimley Rd. S., 6 p.m. Tickets are $45 before Oct. 1 online, $50 dollars at the door. Come celebrate with us!

OCT. 14: Historic Walking Tour with Beach Metro News history columnist Gene Domagala, 1 p.m. This walk will begin at the southeast corner of Kingston Rd. and Victoria Park Ave. and head west along Kingston Road, ending at Main Street.

OCT. 14: Beaches Artisan Market at Kew Gardens, 2075 Queen St. E. 50+ vendors from across the GTA offering vintage, antiques, collectibles, jewelry, home decor, and much more. Info: www.queenstmarketplace.com

647-657-8817

OCT. 14: Kingston Road Village Fall Festival, between Victoria Park Ave. and Main St., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

OCT. 14: Greenbelt Celebration at East Lynn Park, 1949 Danforth Ave., 11 a.m. Hosted by BeachesEast York MPP Mary-Margaret McMahon.

OCT. 18: Letter-writing Event to children in the Compassion Canada program, hosted by Fallingbrook Heights Baptist Church at the Centre, at The Reach, 1666 Kingston Rd., 7-9 p.m. Sponsors (and others) can write letters to children in the Compassion Canada program. To learn more and/or register for the event visit www.churchatthecentre.com/compassion-canada-evening-of-letter-writing/

OCT. 21: Beach Citizen of the Year Ceremony at Millennium Garden in Woodbine Park, 12:30 p.m. Info: www.centre55.com

OCT 21: Big Band Music Night Fundraiser at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., 7 p.m. An evening of music, dancing, door prizes, silent auction and more! Featuring the Toronto All-Star Big Band, vocalists John Amato and Shannon McDougall in support of The Beach Cares (TBC) refugee sponsorship program. TBC is a church and community organization founded in 2015 to sponsor Syrian Refugees, and is a joint project of Beach United Church, The Anglican Church of St. Aidan and members of the local community. Tickets $50. Info: beachunitedchurch.com

OCT. 21: Native Tree Giveaway and Fall Market at Scarborough Food Security Initiative Community Farm, 3595 St. Clair Ave. E., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Choose up to two free native trees/shrubs to bring bees, birds and butterflies back into your garden. Place your order by Oct. 5 at www.CliffcrestButterflyway.com/native-tree-giveaway

OCT. 27, 28: Danforth CTI Reunion and Celebration at 800 Greenwood Ave. •Open House: Friday, 7-9 p.m. •Reunion and Celebration: Saturday, 12:309 p.m. nfo: www.danforthcti.com/centennial

OCT. 28: Concert with Lost Pilgrims on guitars & banjo at Fallingbrook Presbyterian Church, 31 Wood Glen Rd., 2 p.m. Bluegrass, country, folk & rock. Tickets: Adults $25, children under 12 $10. Refreshments served. Tickets and info: 416-699-3084 or fboffice@rogers.com

FRIDAYS: GRANTFUL FOOD AND FELLOWSHIP Food Bank and Soup Kitchen, 2029 Gerrard St. E., is open from 3:30-6 p.m. As of Sept. 8, 2023, to receive food, clients are required to annually sign consent for the Daily Bread Food Bank to use their personal information. This information is being used for research purposes to advocate for better policies that benefit clients. Links and info: www.grantame. com; email: grantamechurch@yahoo.ca; 416-690-5169

FIRST TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH: Seniors’

Lunch at RCL Baron Byng, 243 Coxwell Ave., 1 p.m. Free for veterans and seniors over 65. RCL TODMORDEN BR. 10, 1083 Pape Ave. Looking for somewhere to hold your next event -- Branch 10 has two venues (capacity 250 upper and 175 lower) available to rent. If interested please email rentals@rcl10.ca. Please note that Branch 10 is an accessible branch with elevators at the Pape Street Entrance. •Oct. 6: Bingo, 6:30 p.m. Entertainment is DJ D (Derek), 8 p.m. to closing. •Oct. 13: L.A. Dinner - Rib Dinner, served at 5 p.m. Please call 416-425-3070 for details. Bingo at 6:30, entertainment by Tim Kennedy and the Road House Boys, 8 p.m. to closing. •Oct. 14: Shuffleboard In-House League resumes, 2 p.m. GARDENING GROUP MEETINGS at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., Oct. 7, Oct. 18, and Nov 3 from 8 a.m.-10 a.m. New volunteers are always welcome – no experience is required; both experienced gardeners and beginners are welcome! Meetings will happen rain or shine. Info: www.beachunitedchurch.com

BEACH PHOTO CLUB. Are you interested in photography? We invite all shutterbugs to check out our local photo club. We offer a range of activities including guest speak-

LUNCHES for adults in the community resume Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 11 a.m. •Mondays at Corpus Christi Church (16 Lockwood Rd.). No lunch Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 •Tuesdays – alternating locations: St. Nicholas Anglican Church (1512 Kingston Rd.), Oct. 17, 31, Nov. 14, 28, Dec. 12, (no lunch Dec. 26), Jan. 9, etc.; St. Aidan’s Anglican Church, (2423 Queen St. E), Oct. 10, 24, Nov. 7, 21, Dec. 5, 19, Jan. 2, etc. •Wednesdays at Beaches Hebrew Institute (109 Kenilworth Ave.) •Thursdays at Beach United Church (140 Wineva Ave.) •Fridays at Kingston Road United Church (975 Kingston Rd.). Lunch format may vary from site to site. Info: 416-691-6869 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

QUEER YOUTH UNITED (QYU) at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave. every Tuesday from 4-8 p.m. beginning Oct. 3. QYU is a 2SLGBTQ+ youth group for ages 15-29, where you can come and engage with others in a safe space within the community, while sharing meals, finding support and resources. You are welcome to drop-by at any time during the 4-8 p.m. time period! Info: instagram. com/QueerYouthUnited or beachunitedchurch.com

ADULT AND CHILDREN’S CHOIR at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., practices every Thursday. Children’s Choir (ages 7-12) practices are from 5:45-6:30 p.m. led by Sheila Brand (former music teacher at Williamson Road PS), and Adult Choir rehearsals are from 7-8:30 p.m. led by our music director Steven Webb. All voices are welcome to join, and we are currently looking for more men to join our Adult Choir! Info: beachunitedchurch.com

CHURCHES

BEACH UNITED CHURCH, 140 Wineva Ave., invites you to share in worship with us each week. We offer a combination of in person and YouTube livestream opportunities on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Services are led by our creative and passionate music director Steven Webb and our minister Rev. Greg Daly. Nathalie Zeta, our new Children & Youth Coordinator, will have children’s programming around our Sunday theme each week. In addition to Sunday services, Beach United Church offers a variety of inspirational music and educational programs open to the entire Beach community. Links and info: beachunitedchurch.com

THE CHURCH OF ST. AIDAN’S in the Beach (Anglican), 2423 Queen St. E., welcomes you to join us for Sunday worship at 8:30 a.m. (spoken service) and at 10:30 a.m. (with music and children’s and youth programs). Our energetic, active church offers many opportunities for spiritual growth, vibrant children’s and music programs, youth activities, and a strong commitment to social justice and environmental issues. Weekly euchre is starting on Tuesday, Oct. 10, from 7-9 p.m. Enter from the northeast side door. $5 to play. All proceeds go towards outreach. Beginners welcome. Info: www.staidansinthebeach.com, 416-691-2222

GRANT AME CHURCH, 2029 Gerrard St. E., invites you to attend Sunday Worship Service every Sunday at 11 a.m. in person or live streamed on Zoom and Facebook. Bible Study every Wednesday at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Our time for prayer has changed to 6:30 a.m. as of Wednesday, Oct. 4. Please join us in prayer on the prayer line: Dial-In No.: 1 587 405 1252 Access Code: 700 6901#. Info: www.grantame.com, grantamechurch@yahoo.ca

BEACHES PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 65 Glen Manor Dr. 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. Our Refugee Commitee helps 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 p.m. Please join us on Oct. 15 for a Welcome Back Lunch after our morning service. Sunday morning services are at 10 a.m. Links and info: www.beacheschurch.org, 416-699-5871. Minister: The Reverend Katherine McCloskey FALLINGBROOK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 35 Wood Glen Rd. Please join us Sundays at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Angela J. Cluney. All are welcome! Join on Live Stream via Facebook or access Live Stream on the church website. For details about Wee Folks (on Monday mornings), Book Club, Tea Time, Hobby Circle and Bible Study, Info: fboffice@rogers.com, 416-699-3084, www.fallingbrookpresbyterianchurch.com. Easy access by TTC.

A look back on Bellefair Avenue

By David Van Dyke

Thank you to Aileen Pollock for sending us the photograph of your house shortly after you bought it in 1983!

It is located up the hill on Bellefair Avenue.

Do you, like Aileen, have a picture of your house after you purchased it? Why not share it with our readership?

You can contact me gdvandyke61@gmail.com

900

Toronto

Beach Memories

Kingston Road to be the focus of historic walk on Oct. 14

gene Domagala

Beach Memories

Iwill be leading an historic walking tour of Kingston Road on Saturday, Oct. 14, starting at 1 p.m. We will be meeting at the southeast corner of Kingston Road and Victoria Park Avenue.

Kingston Road has a long and varied history over the past hundreds of years.

Originally it was the route taken by First Nations peoples who travelled near the shoreline of Lake Ontario from one area to another.

Later, the French came and traversed the same routes. In the French regime, it was known as the Road to Quebec.

Later, during the English period, the name was changed and it was called the Road to Kingston (Ontario).

In 1793, Lt. Gov. of Upper Canada John Graves Simcoe and the government of the day commissioned a road to be built.

The road was started by an American builder named Asa Danforth. He never completed the road, only building about 30 to 40 miles of it.

Kingston Road was the busiest means of transportation in the eastern part of Ontario for many years. The corner of Main Street and Kingston Road (Main Street was originally called Dawes Road where it crossed Kingston Road) was the busiest intersection for those looking to get to the downtown area of Toronto.

Over the years, toll gates were necessary to pay for the upkeep of

the road. However, they were abolished in 1897 as the province and then the city assumed responsibility for the road.

Kingston Road from the 1900s to the present day has transformed itself to a modern city road from its rural beginnings.

There were a few hotels on Kingston Road in the East Toronto area, there was also the East Toronto Brick Yards located on the north side, and churches and businesses also sprang up along the road.

Many of these businesses began to flourish. There was even a golf course 100 years ago near Main and Kingston.

Through our area the road also boasted the natural peak of the Glen Stewart Ravine.

There were also educational facilities being built along or near Kingston Road such as Notre

Kingston Road between Victoria Park Avenue and Main Street will be the focus of an historic walk on Saturday, Oct. 14. Dame, Malvern, St. Johns, and Neil McNeil.

Banks also sprang up near major intersections as did business of every type. Today, Kingston Road is a shopping paradise and cultural centre – including the recently opened Steve and Sally Stavro Family YMCA on the south side just east of Beech Avenue.

When we do our walk on Oct. 14, we will see many of the new shops

and businesses together with historical past of Kingston Road which makes it such a special place. It has 230 years of history going back to 1793 and Lt. Gov. Simcoe.

Our historical walk will proceed west along Kingston Road from Victoria Park Avenue. The walk will end at Main Street.

Bring your walking shoes and see you there.

PHOTO: BEACH METRO COMMUNITY NEWS FILE

sean@madiganhomes.com www.madiganhomes.com

Letters

Community needs to be aware that scammers are taking advantage of vulnerable seniors

A year ago, Beach Metro Community News ran a story on confidence men working in our community under the title, ‘Vulnerable seniors taken advantage of by fraudsters’.

They, or people like them are back.

Four men were arrested on Willow Avenue early last month in connection with a ‘roofing scam.’

I am shocked, saddened, and disgusted that confidence men take advantage of the frailty of age, that they deceive and coerce and defraud our most vulnerable neighbours of so much money each year.

The percentage of seniors who are victims of fraud is estimated at 5.9 per cent. But seniors, for various reasons such as cognitive impairment and deep embarrassment, are often reluctant to report their fraud losses. So the number is likely higher.

Being the victim of a scam can be detrimental to se-

niors’ mental health, making them feel stupid, helpless, anxious, depressed, fearful, distrustful and ashamed.

We have “Street Proofing Programs” for kids. Where is the equivalent “streetproofing” protection for elderly adults?

We need to teach the elderly:

Don’t take rides to the bank with strangers. Do not pay in cash or bank drafts.

Don’t sign contracts with contractors who haven’t displayed their business licence on their vehicles and their invoices.

Don’t be pressured into doing work now because “the deal is closing” or “we’re working in your neighbourhood.” If they tell you that they are doing work for neighbours, tell them that you will talk to those neighbours.

Talk over the work and show the estimate to an adult child or a trusted friend. Don’t be bullied into work

that may not need doing.

For those of us who have elderly friends and neighbours:

Do feel it’s your business to intercede, to lend support if you observe an elderly neighbour being talked to by strangers and looking confused or uncomfortable.

Do encourage them to think about the deal and to get a second opinion.

If you are staff at a bank branch:

Do ask an elderly person what large withdrawals are funding. If you’re uncertain about the response, stall for time. Talk to a manager. Sometimes the con artist will get frightened off.

Thank you. I am sorry for the elderly neighbours that have already been defrauded but perhaps I can actually help by bringing this revolting predation to the attention of those who have not yet been taken advantage of.

Lynn Wells

Dog owners with unleashed pets must show consideration for others and our shared spaces

Thanks to Beach Metro Community News and contributors for highlighting the growing concern around offleash dogs in the community.

The significant recent increase in owners allowing their dogs off-leash has made it harder for my family and many others to enjoy public spaces.

After the horrible dog attack at Rawlinson Community School in May, I started speaking with neighbours who let their dogs roam, particularly at schoolyards and playgrounds.

Most people I speak with

quickly become angry, defensive, and even aggressive when reminded to leash their dogs.

My family has experienced threats and harassment from dog owners who insist on treating every park as an off-leash park.

This can’t be how we get on as neighbours.

No matter how well trained, a dog off-leash is not fully under their owners control.

There are lots of peoplemourners in the cemetery, families in the playground, picnickers at the beach –

who do not want a visit from an unfamiliar dog, no matter how small or how friendly.

It also doesn’t consider the safety of the dog, or how the dog might respond if it were to get excited or scared.

I understand owners who do this want what they think is best for their pet.

But this is the city, and the benefits of living in the city are balanced by our responsibility to be considerate of one other and our shared spaces.

Reg McLean

Chain ownership has much to do with downfall of newspapers

‘Column’ from Page 6

inches between the ads. All the news that fits.

That said, I think the downfall of newspapers started with chain ownership.

Before the chains, smalltown newspapers were doing quite well with local advertisers.

But then, under Thomson, Southam et al, most of the lo-

cal ads were bumped for national buys.

It was those national buys that were subsequently siphoned off by Facebook, Google, Twitter etc...

However, those local merchants are still there.

There is still as much local advertising to support small-town newspapers as there was when I started out in 1961.

And there is most definitely more than enough unemployed reporters and editors to staff them.

Beach Metro Community News is a prime example of the market for local news.

With the right approach and backing, many of those small-town papers across Canada could be resurrected and made profitable.

Robert MacBain

114 Kenilworth 1,499,000 sold over asking!

83 Boardwalk

271 Morrish sold over asking!

Heroes of Suicide raises awareness of PTSD issues

By Marcia Dubsky

THE ROYAL Canadian Legion Todmorden Branch 10 held its eighth annual Heroes of Suicide Memorial March and Candlelight Service recently.

The event on the evening of Sunday, Sept. 24, was held to honour the veterans and first responders who have died of suicide due to post traumatic stress disorder issues (PTSD). It included a moment of silence to the victims, prayer and a candlelight service.

According to P.J. O’Neill, president of Todmorden Branch 10, veterans and first responders have to deal with tragic and stressful situations beyond the imagination of most people.

“They can walk down the street and look just like you and I. But you don’t know what’s inside, how they suffer. This is why we need to be more educated to help them,” O’Neill told Beach Metro Community News

A way to create more awareness for members of the public is through the media, he said.

“Talk more about it in the media. There are so many issues in today’s world right now and having those lines open for communication is always important,” said O’Neill.

According to TorontoDanforth MP Julie Dabrusin, who attended the memorial, the community needs to do more on the issue of PTSD.

“We need to always think about our injured soldiers who are suffering from post traumatic stress disorder and other issues related to their service. This is unique, and we are doing it right here in East York,” Dabrusin said of the Todmorden Legion event.

According to Dabrusin, a big part of the Heroes of Suicide event is to break the stigma sometimes attached to PTSD by having the Royal Canadian Legion recognizing the service of people who have had post traumatic stress disorder or have committed suicide. The event also helps support the families of those impacted by PTSD

“Reach out for services,” said Dabrusin. “There are services that are there for you and know that we are so proud of all of the people who have given so much of themselves to protect our country and that when you see an event like this, you know that people are standing up for you.”

According to a National Defence report, suicides among Canadian Armed Forces between 1995 and 2019 were more than 240.

David Pottinger, a member of HMCS York Naval Reserve, said he attended the march and service to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Naval Reserve in Canada by honouring the fallen soldiers, sailors, merchants and first responders who have passed away due to PTSD.

“To be here today is to give a voice to those people who no longer are able to speak for themselves,” said Pottinger.

Irene Paleo, a member of the community who was in the military for six years, said the march is a way of raising awareness.

“I think things like this march, with the veterans, the police officers and the community coming out, shows people that we are aware of what’s happening. That we are aware and we need to be,” said Paleo.

TTC Honour Guards were also part of the march. According to Nireen Qureshi, a TTC manager, the community as a whole need to know more about PTSD.

“As a community in general, we have to advertise more so that way it’s known in the media for anyone living in that area or any community,” said Qureshi.

O’Neill said community awareness is very important as it puts the spotlight on the issue of PTSD..

“Don’t let it hide in the dark shadows. This is what happens when it hides in the dark shadows. We end up with ceremonies like this,” he said.

PHOTO: MARCIA DUBSKY

Participants in the Heroes of Suicide Memorial March and Candlelight Service make their way towards Royal Canadian Legion Todmorden Branch 10 on the evening of Sunday, Sept. 24.

PHOTO: MARCIA DUBSKY President of the Royal Canadian Legion Todmorden Branch 10, P.J. O’Neill, at the Heroes of Suicide memorial.

Wild Side

Fall is a good time of year to animal-proof your property On The

ann Brokelman

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

Ihave had some amazing encounters with raccoons this year; their behaviour was fascinating and their cuteness almost beyond words.

These backyard bandits are quite the conundrum. I think most of us can admit that, while they are often incredibly irritating, they also look absolutely adorable,

The other day, I received a call from a friend who lives just down the road from me. Apparently, they had discovered three baby raccoons sitting on a neighbour’s roof.

How did my friend know they were there? They said the horrendous screaming was a big clue!

Walking down the street in their direction, I could hear their cries long before I could see them.

My first instinct was that their mom had decided to move them to a new location, and they were yelling

in protest of having been, temporarily, left behind.

Sure enough, within a few minutes of spotting them, the mom came back, picked up one of the babies, and disappeared.

This was ideal, as they could have been screaming because the mom hadn’t

been home for a while. If this were the case, the mom might never be coming back, and we’d have to stage our own rescue of the critters.

As I watched, over the course of the next 20 minutes, the mom returned to grab the remaining two. Luckily, she decided to grab

the one who was screaming the loudest, first.

I had to laugh a few times, watching the mom carrying her babies, by their bottoms, while they helplessly flailed about in protest.

It was amazing to see the adult raccoon descend a satellite access ladder,

upside down, while carrying her young.

I found out later that the family had been nesting inside the attic. The animal removal service had found them, patched their access hole, and left the babies on the roof. Luckily mom raccoon found them. Unless almost fully grown, those little ones won’t have much chance at survival.

My second recent raccoon encounter was with a friend of mine who had rescued two babies he found wandering in a park.

That may not seem like strange raccoon behaviour, but my friend, Remy, has been helping animals for years and knew something was wrong. He had watched the babies until almost 3 a.m. (yes, we animal rescue people are an odd bunch) until he confidently concluded that no adult was around to help take care of them.

When he contacted me the next day, the two of us tried to find an animal rescue facility that could take them. This time of year, however, few places have any free space; the need for

raccoon rehabilitation far exceeds what the wildlife rehab community can supply.

Fall is a great time of year to clean up your yard and make sure your property is animal proof.

Make sure your compost bin has a secure lid, seal any holes under your shed, and try not to put out your green bin waste until the morning of collection. Any open/ accessible garbage bin is an invitation to our hungry wild neighbours.

Don’t forget to clean up any rotting fruit or nuts that fall from your trees. You may not mind that the animals clean up the fruit for you, but a lot of raccoons tend to poop near where they eat. Don’t make your yard, deck, or roof their favourite latrine spot.

Also, don’t forget to cover your window wells to stop animals from falling in, but if that’s not possible, at least put something in there that would let an animal climb out. Spending a few dollars on a well cover may not be ideal, but I’m sure it’s preferable to fishing a scared skunk out of there!

PHOTOS: ANN BROKELMAN

Photo above, a mother raccoon lifts one her babies that was stranded on a roof. Photo at right, the raccoon took all three of its babies to a safe spot by carrying them down an antenna/satellite access ladder from the roof.

PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

Interested in advertising your business in our Professional Directory? Contact carolin@beachmeto.com or 416-698-1164 x 22 for rates. Your Professional Directory ad also appears on our website: beachmetro.com

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

WELLNESS missfit.ca

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

SPIRITUAL

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

COUNSELLING

Catherine Allon, BSc, MEd Caring Conversation 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

CHIROPRACTORS INSURANCE

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

Dashwood & Dashwood

Barristers & Solicitors

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

Carolyn Dallman Downes

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

Therapy Alliance

Counselling/Psychotherapy for Individuals and Couples

In person and virtual sessions available Evening appointments available Phil Robbins, MSW, RSW 647 251-7916 Claire Molloy, MSW, RSW 647 370 9648 1860 Queen St. E. (near Queen/Woodbine) www.therapyalliance.ca

in the comfort of your own home.

Dr. Barbara Houghton 647-221-5516

FUNERAL SERVICES

eco Cremation & Burial Services Inc.

Life Celebrations.

INVESTMENT ADVICE & FINANCIAL PLANNING

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

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

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

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

Beaches Family Law and MEDIATION

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

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

Real Estate, Wills & Estates Alessandra P. Goulet Barrister & Solicitor 1637 Gerrard Street East Toronto, ON M4L 2A7 Tel: 647-496-7956 Cell: 416-702-7131

Fax: 647-243-2482

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

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

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

DR. JOYCE FU Chiropractic • Acupuncture Yoga Therapy Perinatal & Pediatric Wellness Specialist https://jfuchiropractic.janeapp.com/ 1755 Queen St. E. • 647-271-9020

MASSAGE

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

Local climate collective pleased with city’s issuing of green bond

By Amarachi Amadike, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

AN EAST Toronto group concerned about the climate crisis is pleased to hear of plans by the City of Toronto to issue a $100-million green bond to finance local projects that promote environmental sustainability.

On Sept. 15, the City of Toronto announced it had issued the green bond which, like other investments in the Green Debenture Program, will be put towards financing environmentally sustainable council-approved capital projects. The move is part of the city’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2040.

“The City of Toronto continues to take bold climate action and this green bond – our sixth since we became one of the first Canadian municipalities to issue green bonds – will fund capital projects to make life better and more sustainable for To-

rontonians, improving our health, growing our economy, cultivating social equity and building our resilience,” said Mayor Olivia Chow in a news release.

With the first green bond being issued in 2018, local climate change advocates Toronto East End Climate Collective (TEECC) said the organization is “pleased to hear that the City of Toronto has a new offering” after receiving news of the latest addition to Toronto’s green bonds.

“Although green bonds carry no financial advantage over other bonds, they are a positive step because the funds raised are committed to capital projects that reduce the City of Toronto’s carbon footprint and mitigate climate change,” said TEECC in an e-mail statement to Beach Metro Community News

“Future city councils cannot divert these funds to other projects. Green bonds

show intention and commitment to climate action.”

The green bond, which has a 20-year maturity and a coupon interest rate of 4.40 per cent, will go towards agencies such as the Toronto & Region Conservation Authority, Corporate Real Estate Management, Transportation Services, and the Toronto Transit Commission who will all be tasked with projects that include “state of good repair, renewable thermal energy, Yonge-Bloor capacity improvements and cycling infrastructure”.

TEECC members believe that the prohibition of the use of these funds on anything other than climate initiatives is an efficient strategy towards reaching the city’s climate goal.

“The city is facing a severe financial crisis which affects the city’s efforts in all areas, including the fight against climate change,” said TEECC’s statement. “Green bonds are constrained by the city’s budget and laws and regulations that restrict the city’s finances. They provide no financial advantage.”

According to the City of Toronto news release, investor confidence in Toronto’s economy “continues to be strong” and the city has maintained high demand for municipal bonds “despite sustained concerns about inflation”.

With the city and the Ontario government’s creation of a joint committee to restructure Toronto’s finances, TEECC members feel confident “a change for the better could be just around the corner”.

“The committee could grant the city the right to create semi-autonomous agencies with the power to issue bonds,” said the TEECC statement.

TEECC members believe the creation of such agencies would enhance the ability to raise money for financing emissions-free heating and cooling “in over 400,000 buildings” at a low cost.

rier,

melinda@beachmetro.com

— 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.

Arts & Entertainment

Pianist and composer Kravtchenko to premiere opera/dance Tango for Two

BEACH PIANIST and composer Jonathan Kravtchenko will premiere his concert-opera Tango for Two on Saturday, Oct. 21.

The performance will take place at the Jeanne Lamon Hall - Trinity St. Paul’s Centre (427 Bloor St. W.). Doors open for the performance at 7:30 p.m.

At the age of 19, Kravtchenko has already gained a large following for both his musical compositions and his skilled playing.

In May of this year he performed the Dreamland concert featuring his chamber music and piano solo compositions.

Kravtchenko’s interest in music began at a young age when his father brought home a small toy keyboard for him to play with. His mother died when he was 18 and he promised her that he would always continue to write music. Kravtchenko describes Tango for Two as “Opera Nova, a new kind of opera for a new generation.”

The performance will combine opera and dance.

Tango for Two tells the story of a sailor on Canada’s East Coast who falls in love, but must overcome a tragedy that

befalls the relationship.

“This piece is unlike anything I have ever worked on,” said Kravtchenko on the Tango for Two website.

“Incorporating dance into opera, and using it as a story-telling medium is so unique. We are reinventing opera itself. I can’t wait for you to experience this amazing concert.”

Also performing in Tango for Two will be Antonina Laskarzhevska, Bohdan Kirieiev, Anna Kravtchenko and David Giller.

For ticket information, please go to https://tangofortwo.com

Neighbourhood Gallery hosting pair of exhibitions

THE NEIGHBOURHOOD Gallery on Danforth Avenue is now hosting an exhibit by artists Ravider Ruprai and Lauren Renzetti.

Ruprai’s exhibit Circle features framed works in acrylic and mixed media.

Renzetti’s exhibit Meadow Meditations featured framed works in watercolour and acrylic.

Both exhibits are taking place until Oct. 29.

After graduating with a Fine Arts degree from McMaster University, Ruprai immersed herself in the Hamilton art scene in the late 1990s and early 2000s. From 2003 to 2013 she had an unplanned hiatus as she raised three children and

battled an aggressive form of cancer.

“(An) abstract painter who works primarily in acrylics on canvas and paper, her paintings often explore dichotomies—playing between micro and macroscopic, biological and geological forms,” said her artist’s statement for Circle. “She uses layers of pattern and texture, drawn from her South Asian heritage, combined with nature, the body and the landscape. Her use of colour is rich, bold and dramatic. Her work post cancer includes the circle— a symbol of totality and wholeness, of perfection, of sacredness.”

Renzetti said in her artist’s statement that “The Meadow is a metaphor for, Communities; intermingling an exist-

ing in a peaceful, harmonious manner. Meadows have variety. Different species thrive in different soil, and are affected by location depending on wind, rain, sun, and bird. In some of these paintings, there are planted crops. There is a liminal space between a crop and its fringes where randomness does move in.”

Renzetti is also curator of the Neighbourhood Gallery which is located in the Neighbourhood Unitarian Universalist Congregation at 310 Danforth Ave. at the site of Eastminster church.

For more information on the Neighbourhood Gallery and the Neighbourhood Unitarian Universalist Congregation, please go to www.nuuc.ca

anksgiving Holiday Hamper

Celebrate anksgiving with your family, friends & loved ones this year without the hassle of having to worry about cooking an elaborate meal.

Let us here at Corbin Catering & Foods provide you an ultimate celebratory feast where your only responsibility is to invite your guests, set the table and turn on your oven to reheat our incredible prepared food!

Menu Availability - October 5th, 6th, 7th & 8th.

All food is fresh, fully prepared, packaged and provided with easy re-heating and serving instructions.

Delivery & Pick-Up Options available

Servings: minimum of 2 people serving per order

Pricing: $55-$60/ person

Each purchased order will receive a complimentary gi of a “ anksgiving Candle” to add a beautiful addition to your anksgiving table.

Part proceeds of all anksgiving Meal Pack sales will be donated to our local neighbourhood elementary schools providing fresh fruit snack programs.

Reel Beach: Movies in East Toronto

John Candy, Second City Toronto and the many ‘Canuck-tions’ to Seinfeld

Bernie Fletcher

Second City Toronto celebrated “Fifty Years of Funny” this summer. The sketch comedy troupe nurtured so many talented performers including Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Andrea Martin, Dan Aykroyd, Mike Myers, Martin Short and John Candy.

In the Second City complex on York Street, the John Candy Box Theatre is dedicated to the memory of the beloved actor.

Candy is remembered for his humour and big heart,

but he was also a mentor to other upcoming actors who trained with him at Second City and on the hit show SCTV which first filmed on Pharmacy Avenue in 1976.

Growing up in East York, Candy dreamed of a football career while playing for Neil McNeil Catholic High School, but the Argos’ loss was comedy’s gain.

The rite of passage for young actors often led through Second City. Not all went on to become big stars, but you may know their faces from playing memorable characters on shows such as Seinfeld Candy helped teach improv skills to Brian George (Babu Bhatt in The Cafe) and John Kapelos (The Sniffing Accountant).

Brian George was born in Jerusalem in 1952 to Jewish parents with Indian, Lebanese and Iraqi roots.

When he was an infant the family uprooted to England, then to Toronto in 1966.

George attended high school here, then the University of Toronto before joining the Second City touring company.

“You very, very bad man!”

Before The Finale on Seinfeld, Jerry Seinfeld came up to Brian and told him “You’re the man,” meaning it was Babu’s finger-wagging testimony that sealed the fate of the New York Four at their trial. Babu had his revenge!

Brian George has gone on to hundreds of roles on TV and film, including Austin Powers with Mike Myers.

Myers joined the touring company of Second City the day he graduated from high school and brought along his Scarborough basement character “Wayne.”

Seinfeld writers often based stories on true events such as a failing diner across the street. Jerry’s accountant really did steal $50,000 from him leading to the episode where John Kapelos plays Barry Prophet.

London, Ontario’s Kapelos credits John Candy with helping him learn comic timing during Second City workshops: “Well my teacher at Second City was originally John Candy. He really was a wonderful person and obviously a great performer. Sadly he is missed after dying way too young. He was also a really, really good teacher.”

You can watch John Candy’s daughter Jennifer interview Kapelos on her podcast (secondcity.com/ catch-up-couch-candy).

Kapelos said he was walking down the street and just walked into the Old Firehall. There was John Candy writing new material. Candy advised him to “do everything, don’t turn anything down.”

Kapelos told Jennifer that her dad was “very, very kind, very generous” and “really exemplified a lot of the good things at Second

City.”

He described Second City as “an incredible place to work” and “a breeding ground for comedy.”

After appearing on SCTV, Kapelos went on to spend eight years with Second City Chicago. Like Candy he was a favourite of director John Hughes.

Elaine Pope grew up in Scarborough with her older sister, singer Carole Pope of High School Confidential fame. As a teen she got her start as a server at Second City Toronto before becoming the only female writer on Seinfeld during its first two seasons.

Pope won an Emmy for writing The Fix-Up (1992) and co-produced 21 episodes.

Christine Cattell played a flight attendant on Seinfeld. She was raised in Toronto and not only was crowned Miss Toronto of 1978 but was also an Ontario Scholar and University of Toronto grad. She had a recurring role on SCTV

Kevin McDonald of The Kids in the Hall studied drama at Humber College and pursued improv comedy at Second City. He’s the “denim vest” guy on Seinfeld.

Jeanne Elias (Myra on Seinfeld) was also a member of Second City.

Toronto-born Terri Austin (Knot’s Landing) worked with Eugene Levy on Second City skits.

She played George’s fur-coat wearing co-worker Ava on Seinfeld. Ironically, Austin now runs an animal activist organization in California.

There are so many other Second City-Seinfeld “Canuck-tions” such as Beacher Peter Keleghan, Toronto’s Linda Kash and Winnipeg’s David Steinberg.

How time flies! Can you believe it’s been 25 years since the finale of Seinfeld and 50 years since Second City Toronto set up shop here?

Let’s hope the laughs just keep coming and we’ll always have John Candy’s legacy to remember.

Photo above left, John Candy, right, and Rick Moranis in an SCTV skit. Photo above right, Brian George.

Beaches-East York MPP

McMahon to host Greenbelt

‘celebration’ at East Lynn Park

By Amarachi Amadike, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

IN THE wake of Premier Doug Ford’s decision to abort development plans on Ontario’s Greenbelt, various celebration gatherings have been planned by residents across the province as they await the Ontario Progressive Party’s official proposal for the reversal.

On Saturday, Oct. 14, Beaches East-York Liberal MPP Mary-Margaret McMahon will be hosting one such gathering.

The celebration, which was initially scheduled to be a protest rally prior to the decision reversal, is set to begin at 11 a.m in East Lynn Park (1949 Danforth Ave).

“Well, if they don’t do what they promised, then we’ll turn it back into a rally,” said McMahon.

“But for now, it’s a celebration.”

Although strategies surrounding the returning of lands back to the Greenbelt have yet to be put forward by the Ford government, McMahon said that she sees the current state of affairs as a win for Ontario’s climate adaptation and mitigation as well as “a win for food security and the farmers” due to the protection of prime agricultural land.

“Getting rid of farmland anytime – but especially in an affordability crisis – is ridiculous,” she said.

“We learned with the pandemic that we need to be supporting local manufacturing, local farmers, local businesses and distributors (by) keeping things local. We need to remember where our food comes from.”

Like Scarborough South-

west NDP MP Doly Begum earlier in September, McMahon credited the saving of the Greenbelt to the “power of the people” as she highlighted that Ontarians have now managed to force their current government into reversing an unpopular decision for the third time since Ford took office.

“I think it gives us a glimmer of hope that we can turn around other atrocities, too –Highway 413, Ontario Place. Many things,” said McMahon.

Climate action

With trust in Ontario’s government diminishing amongst residents, McMahon told Beach Metro Community News that it is imperative that a keen eye is kept on the handling of the aftermath of the Greenbelt saga, especially after viewing the Provincial Climate Change Impact Assessment (PCCIA) report which was released last month.

“The information was incredibly damning on our lack of emergency preparedness, climate adaptation, and strong climate action. We’re not ready in Ontario,” said McMahon.

On Sept. 26 at Queen’s Park, McMahon questioned the leadership of the Ontario’s Progressive Conservative Party as it pertains to climate action as she inquired about why the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks wasn’t an “active participant in the Greenbelt Taskforce.”

“Notably, the previous Minister of Environment was absent from the discourse of the Greenbelt sale – at least publicly – when the destruc-

tion of the Greenbelt would directly affect Ontario’s environment,” said McMahon on Sept. 26.

She called for the newly appointed environment minister, Andrea Khanjin, to be involved in the development of legislation which aims to return the Greenbelt lands back to protected status.

The Ontario government has pledged, however, that the party will “not only return the land but (also) ensure that an additional 7,000 acres of land are put into the Greenbelt” as well as setting boundaries for the Greenbelt that is “protected through legislation and not through regulation”, according to Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Paul Calandra.

It is currently unclear when the new Greenbelt legislation will be presented to MPPs at Queen’s Park.

For now, McMahon is urging East Toronto residents to join in the Oct. 14 celebration where they can further discuss Ontario’s commitment to the protection of its environment.

Other officials expected to attend the event include Beaches East-York Liberal MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith and Toronto-Danforth Liberal MP Julie Debrusin.

Also in attendance on Oct. 14 will be representatives from Environmental Defence Canada.

— 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.

Resident frustrated by grass cutting ‘mystery’ on Lake Shore Blvd. E.

By Alan Shackleton

FOR MONTHS, some residents in the Lake Shore Boulevard East area have been trying to get the City of Toronto to cut the grass on a small strip of land by the road.

The parcel of land in question fronts residences between 1794 to 1806 Lake Shore Blvd. E., which is on the north side east of Winners Circle and west of the traffic lights at the foot of Joseph Duggan Road.

The land is between the sidewalk and the road’s curb and there are 11 crab apple trees on it.

In years past, the area residents (who did not want their names published) said the city had maintained and cut the grass there on a regular basis.

However, that didn’t happen this spring and the residents then started making inquiries as to why not.

Back and forth

And that led to months of back-and-forth between city officials, Toronto’s 311 service and the local residents representative.

Information sent to Beach Metro Community News showed a long string of emails involving representatives of Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford’s office.

In one of those emails, the residents were told by the councillor’s office that city staff had confirmed to them that the grass would be cut in late August.

“I have received confirmation from City staff that the

grass will be cut at this location by August 25,” said the email from a staff member of Councillor Bradford’s office to the resident who had expressed concern.

The grass was not cut by that time, which prompted the resident to express frustration in a follow-up email to the councillor’s office.

“It is now August the 25th. What a surprise! No one, as per your assurances, has been to cut the disgraceful and ugly eyesore that sits in front of the 10 houses along Lake Shore Blvd. East,” wrote the resident.

Residents’ responsibility

“Can someone please have the decency to make something happen. PLEASE!! This is YOUR responsibility. Our hands are tied. We’ve called 311 countless times to no avail.”

On behalf of the frustrated residents, Beach Metro Community News reached out to the City of Toronto’s media relations department to see if it could solve this mystery and explain why the grass was not being cut in the area.

And according to the response received by the paper on Sept. 15, the reason was because the land is not one that the City of Toronto is responsible for maintaining.

“At this time, we can confirm that the property owners of 1794 to 1806 Lakeshore Boulevard East are responsible for maintaining the grass portion of the boulevard in front of their properties under the bylaw, Chapter 74336,” said Russell Baker, Manager, Media Relations and Issues Management with the

City of Toronto.

“In past years, the City cut the grass on the boulevard, but this was discontinued after a review when it was found that this area is the responsibility of the property owners. The City is committed to taking steps to help inform the property owners about the bylaw requirements and will provide 311 staff with updated information about this location.”

Extremely frustrating

That was a surprise to the residents who had been communicating with 311 and had never been told they were supposed to responsible for the maintenance of that strip of land.

“When and why did ‘bylaw, Chapter 743-36’ come into effect and under whose review?” asked the resident in a response sent to Beach Metro Community News.

“Did any of these decision makers take into consideration homeowners with physical disabilities who are unable to tend to this land in question? What accommodations will be made for these individuals with disabilities to assist them? How and when were residents advised of this change?”

The resident also expressed extreme frustration with the entire process.

“This whole tiresome back and forth that has gone on for four months should and could have been resolved with effective communication. Clearly there is a massive communication breakdown that has made the entire experience extremely frustrating.”

PHOTOS: ALAN SHACKLETON

Community Centre 55 held its annual car show at Bob Acton Park on Sunday, Oct. 1. Photo at left, a 1975 Gremlin X was among the many cars on display. Photo at right, Reg Little with his 2007 Mustang convertible.

Local writer Subrata Kumar Das wins

Best Canadian Bengali Author Award

EAST YORK writer Subrata

Kumar Das was recently presented with the Nalanda Best Canadian Bengali Author Award.

The awards presentation took place during the Canadian South Asian Literary Festival in Brampton in late August. Bengali writers living in East York, Scarborough and other Ontarian cities participated in the multilingual literary festival.

The festival kicked off with a gala opening at a Brampton Hotel on the evening of Aug. 25 at which Sanjay Kumar Verma, the High Commissioner of India to Canada, and a number of distinguished writers of South Asian languages attended.

A number of Canadian South Asian writer were honoured at the gala including Das, who received the Best Canadian Bengali Author Award.

Writers from many different South Asian languages such as Bengali, Hindi, Urdu, Sindhi, Kashmiri, Tamil, Telegu, and Panjabi took part in the three-day literary

festival in Brampton.

Bengali writers participated in three sessions on Aug. 26. Sam Mukherjee, Silmy Abdullah and Sumaiya Matin joined the session called Bengalis in CanLit; while Sujit Kusum Paul, Jakaria

Muhammad Moyen Uddin and Chayan Das participated in the Canadian Bengali Writers Conclave. Writers Sreyoshi Bose and Tasmina Khan conducted the sessions respectively. Das took part in the Canadian Landscape

for South Asian Writers’ panel discussion along with authors Baldev Mutta and Anubha Mehta. The session was conducted by Haleema Samia, a noted TV personality and one of the organizers of the festival.

Big Band Music Night fundraiser for The Beach Cares slated

THE BIG Band Music Night fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 21, will take place in support of The Beach Cares.

Set for Beach United Church from 7 to 10 p.m., the evening will feature vocalists John Amato and Shannon McDougall performing with the 17-piece Toronto All Star Big Band.

The Beach Cares (TBC) is a local church and community organization founded in 2015 to sponsor refugees.

It is a joint project of Beach United Church, The Anglican Church of St. Aidan, and members of the local community. TBC is currently sponsoring a Syrian-Ukrainian couple who arrived in

Open Doors: Spiritual Matters

rev angela J. cluney

Fallingbrook Presbyterian Church

British soccer team. Between the less than winning team that Ted has come to coach and his unorthodox style of coaching, the show through its storylines and characters invites you to take on your own journey of self-discovery.

Toronto in March 2023. Along with the performances, The Big Band Music Night will feature a silent auction, gift baskets, door prizes hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, a dance demo and more. Tickets are $50. To order, go to https://beachunitedchurch. com/2023/07/big-band-music-night

propriate theme for a show for myself as a minister.

American football coach who gets hired to coach a

The makeshift community of characters, after time and trials of life, become friends that are family.

The type of family and friends that you create for yourself, the ones that remind you that you are never alone when you have each other.

The ones who help you see that life is worth living, even in the bad days.

They are the friends who have your back when needed, who still love you even when your real self is revealed to the world. The ones who encourage you to believe in what is possible in life!

If there is a word to describe the show I would say it is: Believe. A very ap-

After all, that is my calling to help people build upon their own belief in that which is greater than anything. I am called to encourage my congregants to strive to be better than we currently are through faithful acts and personal discernment with God.

I try to do this through offering worship, pastoral care and my other duties to my congregation and to those who are touched by the ministry of Fallingbrook.

I truly hope that I succeed in helping people want to build upon their own selves and in their belief of God, that greater being.

In the service of this calling, I have realized that like the character of Ted Lasso, I too must work on what it means to truly believe and to be better than what I am now.

We always need to be constantly willing to work on ourselves to live out our

best lives. It takes effort to strive to allow the important parts of life to mold us into who we are meant to be as that better person for the family of people, who we call our own.

We need to be willing to forgive ourselves and others, we need to want to grow so that we evolve, to be observant in our surrounding and with each other to see the needs of others. We need to be willing to trust in what can be when you really believe in yourself and God.

We must be encouraged to find courage to let ourselves heal from our past hurts, so that we might become who the world needs us to be now.

I pray that we all can take this time for ourselves this season of Thanksgiving, for we all deserve to be the best that we can be!

-- Rev. Angela J. Cluney is with Fallingbrook Presbyterian Church.

Subrata Kumar Das, left, receives the Nalanda Best Canadian Bengali Author Award from Sanjoy Kumar Verma, the High Commissioner of India to Canada, at the gala opening of Canadian South Asian Literary Festival on Aug 25 in Brampton. At right is writer and TV personality Tahir Gora, the chief organizer of the event.

Kingston Road Village Concert Series begins season with A Taste of Persia Sayeh-Roshan

THE KINGSTON Road Village Concert Series kicks off its 2023/24 season on the afternoon of Sunday, Oct. 22, with A Taste of Persia Sayeh-Roshan.

The concert features Ali Kiân Yazdânfar, double bass; Brigitte Poulin, piano; Behnoosh Behnâhmniâ, kamâncheh; Bâmdâd Fotouhi, tombak; and Hourâsâ Taghi Goljâhi, dancer.

Sayeh-Roshan is Persian for “chiaroscuro” which is the interaction of light and shadow. This idea can be easily applied to many aspects of modern life, including music.

“In a politically and socially polarized world, there is a constant pressure to

take a stand on one side or the other. However, life is more complex than simple black and white, and the in-between is not gray but rather a complex pattern unique to each individual,” said a news release from the Kingston Road Village Concert Series about the Oct. 22 performance.

“There is always interaction between competing desires, ideas, and perspectives... At the same time, this duality is often the reality for those with ties to multiple cultures.”

Sayeh-Roshan is centred around three new works for double bass and piano written specifically for this program.

EAST TORONTO BASEBALL

“It asks the composers and performers to consider what their Persian identity means to them now, living in the West, and how a chiaroscuro-like interaction of the West and East has become a part of them,” said the news release. “The concert is centered around the idea of cultural dislocation, specifically how the perspective of self can change during the process of integration into a new society.”

A Taste of Persia SayehRoshan starts at 2 p.m. and will be performed at Kingston Road United Church, 975 Kingston Rd., on Oct. 22. For ticket information, please go to www.kruc.ca/ concert-series

Bowmore Road Junior and Senior Public School celebrates 100 years

We are fortunate and grateful to have generous sponsors and community partners. Thank you to all our sponsors, volunteers, and parks and recreation for making 2023 possible for over 300 participants

Please support our sponsors and all local businesses. They are the backbone of our community!!

Axess Law

Beach Metro News

Black Dog Café

Charles Fallow 46

DeClute Real Estate

DVBIA

Eagle Beaver

Fearless Meat

Flooring + Home

Grace & Co. Real Estate

Hammer’s Angels

Jakobek Jets

Kal Tire

Kriens-LaRose, LLP

Nabor’s Paint

Norseman Construction Penguins

Play It Again Sports

Quarry Café

Quarry Dental

Roblins Rebels

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11

Balmy Beach Club

Steve Thomas Mustangs

PHOTO: ADAM OWEN-GILL

Visitors to the Bowmore Road Junior and Senior Public School 100th anniversary celebration on Thursday, Sept. 28, check out some of the old photos on display in the school.

C L A S S I F I E D S

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Call me 416-521-6287

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(includes HST) for the first 20 words, plus 35¢ each extra word.

Ads are available in two sizes: WORD AD BLOCK AD 1.5” wide x 1” deep (includes HST)

Garden & Tree

CUTTING

Contact: carolin@beachmetro.com or 416-698-1164 x 22 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.

or Deadline for October 17 is October 10

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers Needed to deliver BEACH METRO NEWS

Routes available throughout the Beach, Upper Beach, Danforth, Birchcliff

STUDENTS EARN COMMUNITY SERVICE HOURS 416-698-1164 x 27 or melinda@beachmetro.com

Volunteers Needed for Meals On Wheels program - DRIVERS & RUNNERS WoodGreen Community Services seeks help from local residents for Meals On Wheels program, a service dedicated to increasing food security & independent living for seniors & adults with disabilities. For more info & to volunteer, email foodsecurity@woodgreen.org or call 416-405-5059

Personal Care

PERSONAL SUPPORT WORKER AVAILABLE

Experienced English-speaking, certified PSW available for food prep, companionship, light housekeeping, shopping, escort by transit/taxi to appts. Negotiable rates. Experience with dementia. References available. Contact Leah: 647-783-1317 or email lenaernst@netzero.com (16)

CHIROPRACTIC ACUPUNCTURE

YOGA THERAPY

Dr. Joyce Fu • 5-Star Reviews only! Book online: https://jfuchiropractic.janeapp.com/ 1755 Queen St. E. 647-271-9020 (16)

Employment

Opportunities

WANTED

Part-time Medical Reception

2 days a week (Thurs/Fri)

Knowledge of EMR systems beneficial Local Doctor’s office (Main/Danforth) Call 416-694-1126

Apartment/ Home for Rent

LANDLORDS For Peace of Mind Call Harding & King R.E. Services Inc. Brokerage

We make owning real estate & being a Landlord painless, easy & profitable. Call now 416-699-9714 x8 www.hardingandking.com

BEACHES LUXURY APTS

High-Rise - VIEWS - Some New

KLEEN WINDOWS

REPAIRS

Professional repairs of all brands of refrigerators, stoves, dryers, washers, dishwashers, microwaves, heating & air conditioning.

Warranty • Credit Cards Accepted • Seniors Discount Call 416-616-0388 (15)

Home Decor

Vienna Upholstery

2358 Kingston Rd. (w. of Midland) 416-698-9000 (r)

General Services

WAYNE’S

RUBBISH REMOVAL & DEMOLITION SPECIALIST RECYCLING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR CLEANING 416-264-1495

CELL 416-567-4019 (19r)

MR. FIX-IT

PROFESSIONAL, MATURE, RELIABLE RENOVATIONS AND REPAIRS 20+ years experience Plumbing, Electrical, Carpentry, Painting, and Handy Work. Randall 416-450-0599 torontomrfixit@gmail.com (17r)

Peter the Handyman INDOOR / OUTDOOR

General repairs: Drywall / Caulking / Painting / Decks / Fences

We Pay Top Dollar For Unwanted CARS, VANS, TRUCKS & SUVs FREE TOW in 2 HRS • 24/7 (14r)

MAN WITH PICK-UP TRUCK

For light moves/deliveries, junk removal, cleanups, etc. Efficient. Best rates. 647-806-7620 (19r)

HANDYMAN / HELPER

Garage Cleanups & Junk Removal

Other various jobs 20 yrs exp. Quality work. Good prices. Call Greg 437 230-4824 (14.)

BCM Junk Removal

Friendly, Efficient & Affordable ALL Junk & Renovation Debris Light Demo Landscape Cleanup Call anytime! Blake 416 873 0205 (10/24)

Introducing AI Appointment Bot for Home Contractors!

AI-powered scheduling made easy. Automate Consultations. Never miss a client. Try it now! www.leadautobot.com 289-768-9054 (15)

TWO BROTHERS

HANDYMEN SERVICE

Call for ALL your household needs 40 years in the Beach 647 766 7655 (15)

Pet Services

Kuri K9 Massage I am a mobile Certified Canine and Feline Massage Therapist working in the Toronto area since 2013. I offer Swedish massage and other massage therapies and modalities to your fur babies in the comfort of your home. Phone/Text 416-471-3955 kurik9massage.com (16)

Pest Control

RACCOON CONTROL

Humane removal of raccoons and babies from ATTICS, DECKS, PORCHES, GARAGES, SHEDS WWW.RACCOONCONTROL.CA

647-557-7932 (22/24)

SQUIRREL REMOVAL

We remove squirrels in a humane way from attics, walls, sheds, decks, etc. 647-496-0815 www.SquirrelControl.ca (22/24)

PEST CONTROL

• Mice • Cockroaches • Rats

• Bed Bugs • Ants • Wasps

• Centipedes • Spiders • more THEEXTERMINATORS.CA 647-496-2211 (22/24)

GOT BEDBUGS? CALL

PESTZERRO.CA

647-200-2687

905-392-1506 (14)

416 414 5883 info@blpm.ca (14r)

Who has the time to clean anymore?

I have the time, so give me a call.

Roxanne 647 886 8303 (16)

EXTREME CLEANING

I provide excellent cleaning services for residential homes and condos.

Contact Martha @ Cell: 647-206-1415 (14.)

EUROPEAN

CLEANING LADIES

offer complete and thorough cleaning service for your house • office • condo Call Ilona 416-427-3815 (18)

NEXT

DEADLINE

October 10

Fresh Housekeeping

Home Cleaning Service in the East End 647-878-6432

DirtStandsNoChance@gmail.com

Family Owned and Operated www.FreshHousekeeping.ca (19)

Music

Beaches Suzuki School of Music

We share our love of music using the Suzuki Method by providing gentle encouragement, inspiration, and musicianship in Violin and Piano. Online teaching available

Ines 416 726 5729 (14r)

SITAR MUSIC LESSONS (in person or online)

Dr. Sabita Murthy offers lessons to beginner & intermediate students age 7+, including seniors. I’m an experienced Sitarist who trained under one of the most renowned sitar maestros of the legendary Etawah Gharana. Email sabitakm@gmail.com or call 416-577-2994 (14)

THE TWO FOURS

Rockin’ Roots & Retro Revival Party Good Time Music, Every Time Book your fall or winter party or event now. thetwofours@eol.ca • 416-690-5442 https://facebook.com/thetwofoursband

Tutoring

HELP WITH MATH & ENGLISH call ALBERTO 416 690 9389 for

• COVID CATCH-UP •

• in-depth homework/test help •

• essay-writing + study skills •

• numeracy + literacy support • INDIV/GRP TUITION IN YOUR HOME

QUALIFIED + EXPERIENCED TEACHER, K-12

PROVEN SUCCESS - REFS AVAILABLE (14r)

Head Start Tutors

One on One Tutoring Grades 3-12

Keeping the Love of Learning Alive

In-person & Virtual Tutoring Available www.headstarttutors.ca 416-272-9589 • hstarttutors@gmail.com

Proudly serving the Beach for over 25 years

Neil Bennett B.Ed./OCT • Sally Vickers B.Ed./OCT (15r)

THE STUDY STUDIO

BEACH PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

-Lawn Cutting

-Spring/Fall Property Clean-Ups

-Hedge Trimming 416-414-5883 info@blpm.ca (14r)

Beach Lawn Care

LAWN

CUTTING SERVICES

*STARTING AT $20 416-691-8503 beachlawncare2020@gmail.com (14r)

FOUR SEASONS

• Grass Cutting • Pruning, Trimming Trees

• Gardening

• Hedge Cutting

• Leaf Removal Steve 647-216-8588 (17))

EVERGREEN TREE CARE YOUR LOCAL, FAMILY RUN

TREE PRESERVATION SPECIALISTS

Pruning, Cabling, Planting, Arborist Reports, Removals, Stumps, Milling Free Quotes! 416.546.4889 info@evergreentreecare.ca evergreentreecare.ca (r)

GARDENING

647 606 0970 freshgreenlawncare @gmail.com (17)

GREENWOOD TREE COMPANY

Another Local Arborist Tree Pruning

Commercial

for Rent

www.mcarthurbusinesscentre.com (r)

UPPER BEACHES OFFICE

SPACE

Ideal for medical professionals, lawyers or accountants 416-690-2880 (r)

Odd jobs: Fixtures, TV, Shelf & Picture install / Furniture assembly (IKEA)... & much more!

Call/text Peter 416 577 4252 (14)

Well Trained Handy Husband

Catering to small jobs around your home that others won’t do! Reliable & trustworthy with returning happy customers. $60 hour, one hour minimum. Call, email or text to discuss. Glenn 416-709-2930 superglenn@bell.net (14r)

CTD Handyman Services

General repairs indoor/outdoor. Drywall, painting, carpentry, pressure washing.

Demolition and waste removal. Call or text: 647-336-8030 (14.)

Cleaning Services

HEALTHY HOME CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

• Bio-degradable, non-allergenic products used

• Drying time 3-4 hours

• Bonded, insured, certified Free At Home Estimates! Call 416-783-3434 (23/24)

RILEYS’ WINDOW CLEANING

A family business since 1956

Window & Eaves Cleaning

Gutter Filter Installation 416 421-5758

rileyswindowcleaning.com (r)

Individualized tutoring and programs for grades 3-12 in all subjects.

Proven success with thousands of Beach area students for 20 years. On Kingston Rd. just east of Vic Park Andrew English B.Ed. 416-690-6116 www.thestudystudio.com (14r)

French Language for Kids/

Adults-French Tutoring

Recently retired from the Public French School Board CS Viamonde (GTA) : 20 years in classroom and 8 years as a Curriculum Consultant SE. References available. Call Helene 647-850-6160 (15)

All ads may also be viewed at www.beachmetro.com

CUTTING

Plumbers BEACH PLUMBING

Small Repairs to complete houses Renovations

416 691-3555

50 years in the Beach (r)

NEIGHBOURHOOD

PLUMBING

Beach resident for 50 years.

Discount for seniors and single parent.

Lic. Master Plumber • Free estimates Patrick 647-404-7139 patrickj480@gmail.com (8/24)

Larry’s

Scotstone

TOM DAY

Plumbing & Drains

All types of plumbing work.

Smallest leak - complete bath reno. Internal & external drain excavating. Call the professionals 416-480-0622 24 hr. - lic# P1624 (14r)

MASTER PLUMBER

PLUMBER CONTRACTOR

Fully licensed & insured.

Lic #T94

George: 416-278-7057 or Gabston Reno: 647-342-2872 (r)

ATLANTIS PLUMBING

& DRAINS •Heating & Mechanical

•Sprinklers

Roofers

LANIGAN’S Roofing

THOSE

ROOFING & SIDING? SOLUTION! Flat and Shingle Roofs Re-roofing, Repair Eavestrough, Soffit & Fascia Workmanship Guaranteed Gus: 416-910-8033 (18r)

TORONTO ROOFING INDUSTRIES LTD.

CEJA

GRASS

GINGER GARDENS

WG

MBX

Local • Reliable • Professional Servicing the beach for 18 years. 416 694 0906 torontoroofingindustries.com (19r)

CANADIAN CONTRACTORS Shingles • Flats Roof Repairs • Metal Work Eavestroughing & Siding Waterproofing • Since 1984 Met. Lic. B-16-964 Steve 416-285-0440 • 416-605-9510 (14.)

Beach Co Roofing

Flat Roofing

647-309-8056 (14r)

K. R. ROOFING

All types of Roofing

Eavestrough & Siding

Over 40 years in the east end. Martin 416 579-6534 (16r)

ROOFING, REPAIRS DUN-RITE

Shingles, Flats, Eavestroughs Fascia & Soffit Chimney tuck pointing

off for Seniors • All work guaranteed 647-857-5656 (15)

CITYWIDE

Trades

Can Pro

Mechanical

Heating cooling service & install Hvac ductwork

Furnace, boiler, hydronics

Large and small jobs

416 606 4719 (14r)

BLANK SLATE RENOVATIONS

Kitchens & bath, basement apts, doors, trim, crown molding, shelving, paint, drywall repair, tile, hardwood, fences, decks, interlock and more. Lic. & Ins. 416.274.5929 (14r)

KEW BEACH

GENERAL CONTRACTING

Kitchens - Bathrooms Basements - Doors, Windows Garages - Fences, Decks For all your reno needs, no job too small. Metro lic 416 824-7901 (14$)

ALANO TILE &

MATTCAM

Maximum General Contracting Inc.

“Your basement lowering specialists” 416-826-3918 John www.mgcunderpinning.com maximumgen@gmail.com

MET# B16348 Since 1998 (2/24r)

Beaches Brickworks

• brick restoration

• arches, lintels & sills

• openings & enclosures

CHIMNEY SPECIALISTS

416 988-2589 danielmccaf@gmail.com (14r)

S.A.C Masonry

Brick, Block, Stone, Chimneys, Concrete, and all masonry repairs

Call Sergio 416 873 9936(14)

CJ DRYWALL & PAINTING

Professional drywall and plaster work. Renovation and Repair. Very clean. No job too small.

Call C.J. 647 222 5338 (14.)

BEACHES HANDY WORKS

Dedicated precise worker.

All your build and repairs. Indoor or outdoor: dry-wall, flooring, built-in, landscaping, interlocking, sheds, fences, decks, etc. at a reasonable price!

Call Hamid at 647-300-2462 (14r)

JDB MASONRY

• Brick / Foundation

• Concrete / Stone

• Chimney & Parging

Restoration & Build www.jdbuild.ca

416-738-2119 (14r)

BRICK SPECIALIST

Masonry & brickwork.

Experts at matching existing brick. New builds, tuckpointing, colour matching, parging. Stone & Block.

Call Scott @ Scotstone 416.858.2452

scotstonecontracting@gmail.com (15)