Beach Metro Community News May 28, 2024

Toronto Beaches Junior A lacrosse back at Ted Reeve Arena

CHRISTIAN HASSE

Junior A lacrosse action returned to Ted Reeve Arena last Friday night as the Toronto Beaches (white sweaters) welcomed the Burlington Blaze for an Ontario Junior Lacrosse League game. Toronto Beaches had not played home games at Ted Reeve since the summer of 2022 due to renovations, and they celebrated their return with a 12-9 win over Burlington. The next two home games for Toronto Beaches at Ted Reeve Arena will be on May 30 and June 3. For more on the team, please go to www.beachesjralacrosse.ca.

East York Concert Band set to celebrate 75 years

By Jessica Shackleton

MEMBERS OF The East York Concert Band have been busy rehearsing for their upcoming 75th anniversary concert this Sunday.

The band rehearses every Monday evening and this year’s spring concert, Musical Memories: Celebrating 75 Years of the East York Concert Band, will take place on Sunday, June 2, at 2 p.m. at St. Clement of Ohrid Macedonian Orthodox Cathedral on Overlea Drive. For the anniversary concert, some of the band’s alumni will join the current ensemble to perform. The East York Concert Band has

about 55 members and is fully stocked with a range of instruments. It is an all-ages group with members in their 20s, 90s, and everything in between.

The 75th anniversary milestone is important to recognize since there are not many community bands with such a long history left in the city.

The East York Concert Band (EYCB) was founded in 1948 by local music teacher Norman Tuckwell. Initial members were drawn from East York Collegiate Institute night school music class students.

Russ Welton, who will be 96 in October,

is an original member of the band and still plays the drums. He was personally invited by Tuckwell in 1950 to join the band as he had been a percussion player in his years as a student at East York Collegiate.

“The conductor was the music director at East York. (He) had the high school orchestra but then he got the idea of having a concert band and when I graduated he contacted me to come out and it started from there,” said Welton. “I haven’t had the sense to get out.”

Welton was too young to fight in the Second World War but he had two older sisters

Continued on Page 5

Kingston Road Village Spring Fest set

for June 1

MARK YOUR calendars for Saturday, June 1, as the Kingston Road Village business community hosts its annual Spring Festival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The free family event takes place along Kingston Road between Victoria Park Avenue and Beech Avenue.

There will be a variety of activities, displays, and shopping specials from local shops and community groups including a scavenger hunt, with sheets available at most businesses.

There will also be live music, face painting, raffle baskets and more.

Also, be sure to drop by the Beach Metro Community News table in front of Kingston Road United Church to say hello.

For more information, please visit Kingston Road Village on Facebook.

Parade, memorial to mark D-Day’s 80th anniversary

A PARADE and Memorial Service will take place next month to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Organized by Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11, the parade will take place on the afternoon of Sunday, June 9, along Kingston Road. The parade will start at 1:45 p.m. at Norway Junior Public School, 390 Kingston Rd.) and head west to St. John’s Norway Cemetery at Woodbine Avenue and Kingston Road.

The parade will make its way into the cemetery where a Memorial Service will take place at the Veterans’ Section beginning at 2:15 p.m.

The D-Day invasion of June 6, 1944, marked the beginning of the liberation of Europe and the eventual end of the Second World War in May of 1945. More than 14,000 Canadian military members took part in the D-Day invasion. Canadian troops secured Juno Beach at the cost of more than 1,000 casualties, with 359 killed.

For more on D-Day, please see Page 20.

PHOTOS:

Concerns raised about crossing guard contract

By Amarachi Amadike, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

CROSSING GUARDS in East Toronto are sounding the alarm about what they allege to be employee mismanagement by the City’s Zone 2 (Toronto and East York) contractor, Synergy Protection Group Inc.

the opposite direction but they’ve undone a lot of the good work of (the past contractor).”

Following years of crossing guard duties being administered by the Toronto Police Service, the City of Toronto awarded Carraway Inc. a four-year contract to take over in 2019.

didn’t want anything to do with it.”

The employee questions the “level of training” given to the people sent to guard the city’s intersections as some new employees allegedly perform unsafe practices which can lead to civilian harm.

tor, they, in collaboration with the City of Toronto, “establish shift times that meet the local school community’s needs.”

Beautiful four bedroom home in prime East York, just steps to Dieppe Park. This show-stopper on a huge lot also includes three bathrooms, a finished basement with separate entrance, and a private driveway with parking for three cars.

An employee, who asked to remain anonymous, told Beach Metro Community News about verbal harassment endured at the hands of supervisors as well as various issues with compensation.

“We always took pride in our community and our jobs and how important we were to our community,” said the crossing guard. “And it was exceptional to have that validated by [Carraway]. But with this new company, they’ve gone not only in

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.

In May 2023, after Carraway’s contract reached its expiration, Synergy took over as the Zone 2 contractor with Carraway now in control of Zone 1 (North York) and Zone 3 (Scarborough), while Ottawa Safety Council was awarded the EtobicokeYork contract.

Having previously worked under Carraway in Toronto and East York, the crossing guard alleged that working conditions have drastically changed since the contract reshuffle.

“Carraway’s emphasis was on being a good community ambassador,” they said. “At every turn the company would go out of their way to say how much they care for us and respect us.”

The Synergy employee alleged that things are much different now with high absentee rates and a lack of replacement workers in cases where a crossing guard cannot show up. However, the City of Toronto told Beach Metro Community News that Synergy is consistently meeting 98 to 100 per cent daily coverage.

“From the start, they had very poor communication and it was obvious that they were new at this,” the employee alleged. “Senior staff offered suggestions to deal with the transition, but they

The City of Toronto said it disputes these allegations insisting that it requires all suppliers to provide compressive training “in-house and on the field.”

“All suppliers meet this requirement,” said Russell Baker, City of Toronto Manager, Media Relations & Issues Management.

“The City also investigates all complaints received for conduct and continuously ensures services are delivered as required. We encourage anyone that observes conduct concerns to submit a 311 service request. Quality assurance continues well beyond the already comprehensive training provided.”

The employee also alleged that some crossing guards who worked up to nine hours during training received no payment. Synergy said that particular issue has been rectified.

“In fall 2023, Synergy was made aware that some employees had not received payment for their training due to a payment error,” said a representative. “These payments were quickly processed and we hired a third-party to process future payments to prevent further issues.”

Synergy also challenged the allegations of increased absenteeism, harassment and a lack of payment for overtime hours in cases where a shift ends while school kids are still passing through the guarded intersections.

Fabulous detached bungalow with a warm mix of traditional charm and modern upgrades. Finished basement with separate entrance as well as an additional studio in the back garden, gazebo covered deck. Short walk to subway, acres of greenspace, and fantastic Danforth amenities.

“Permanent/Full time crossing guards are paid for more hours than they actually work,” said Synergy. “Crossing guards who work beyond the end of their regular scheduled shift report their actual end time to our office so we can adjust their timesheets.”

However, the employee alleged that such is not the case as they often have to stay at their designated intersections well beyond their shift end times.

“We ask school crossing guards and their supervisors to report any issues with shift times to us so we can quickly make adjustments when needed,” said Synergy.

One of the bigger employee concerns revolves around the costs for essential equipment such as stop signs, safety vests and whistles, which they are mandated to purchase from Synergy.

Although the $150 which the employee said “seems a little high” is refunded upon returning the equipment, crossing guards were promised that the payment would be deducted from their wages at a much slower rate than actuality.

“They said they’d take the deposit in 10 installments of 10 per cent which is $15 per payment,” alleged the crossing guard who spoke to Beach Metro Community News. “They immediately broke their word.”

The employee alleged the company deducted “roughly one-third” of the equipment expenses from the first paycheque with the full $150 getting deducted by the third paycheque. The Synergy employee said that this might

According to the contrac-

Continued on Page 3

has been made aware of allegations

‘Concerns’ from Page 1 seem like a minor issue, but with wages as low as $17.32 per hour in the current

nomic state the city is in, a $50 loss in a paycheque was a bitter pill to swallow.

“A deposit is allowed under the City’s contract requirements,” the City of Toronto told Beach Metro Community News

With Zone 2 (Toronto and East York) employees experiencing a 30-minute reduction in billable hours–from six-and-a-half hours to six hours per day since the Synergy was awarded their contract, the employee said crossing guards have also lost an additional five hours per pay cheque.

The City of Toronto did not mandate the number of billable hours. “The City of Toronto has a Fair Wage Policy which all suppliers meet or exceed. All suppliers have individual business models while meeting the City’s Fair Wage Policy,” the city told Beach Metro Community News.

“Everything’s going up in price so it feels wrong,”

said the crossing guard. “Not many people can still afford to keep doing this.”

Synergy’s employees are hoping the company can return to the ways of their former contractor, Carraway, before the days of older employees quitting due to heightened stress levels as was the case with a longtime crossing guard who was allegedly harassed by supervisors until he left his post of 19 years, according to the employee who spoke to Beach Metro Community News.

According to the City of Toronto, management company supervisors are mandated to visit each crossing guard location once per week “to ensure all requirements are met.”

Also, the employee alleged that since the new ownership took over, some older crossing guards have been reprimanded for their interactions with passersby which, in turn, has weakened their relationships with community members.

The City of Toronto said that school crossing guards

are encouraged to build relationships with the surrounding community. “However, it is the City’s expectation that children’s safety is the school crossing guard’s number one priority at all times, including when engaging with passersby.”

The employee, however, alleged: “From the beginning of the school year, it really felt like a deliberate harassment campaign and age-based discrimination.”

According to Baker, the City of Toronto has been made aware of these allegations regarding harassment and is working with Synergy to gather additional information. “The City does not tolerate any form of harassment or discrimination,” he said. “We encourage school crossing guards to speak directly with their employer about any employment-related concerns.”

Synergy Protection Group Inc. signed a two-year contract with the City of Toronto in 2023. They have the option to extend for three additional one-year periods when the contract expires in 2025.

Toronto Roofing Industries Ltd. marks 20 years of serving the Beach and beyond

By Erin Horrocks-Pope

TORONTO ROOFING Industries Ltd. (TRI), a mainstay of the East Toronto roofing scene, is celebrating a significant milestone: 20 years of dedicated service to the local community.

Founded by Tim Mulroy, TRI has grown from a small, hands-on business into a trusted name for roofing and related services in the neighbourhood and throughout the Greater Toronto Area.

Mulroy’s journey into roofing began almost 40 years ago with an unexpected twist of fate.

Recovering from a motorcycle accident and out of work, he was approached by a roofer at a Royal Canadian Legion branch who asked for his help on a job.

“I haven’t done anything else since,” recalled Mulroy.

His experience as a subcontractor and later as a roofing consultant for major engineering firms has equipped Mulroy with invaluable expertise and a profound respect for the trade, which he instills in his team members.

Reflecting on TRI’s early days, Mulroy shared an anecdote that perfectly illustrates the company’s commitment to clear communication and precision.

Two decades ago, one of their first jobs was a full-roof replacement on Kingswood Road.

However, things took an unexpected turn when the homeowner, calling from overseas, mentioned that the work had already started.

Confused, Mulroy assured him that the job had yet to be scheduled and that they always notified clients beforehand. Concerned, he visited the site to investigate. There, he discovered a crew diligently working on the roof – unfortunately, at the wrong address.

“Turns out there’s a King-

Nominations

swood Road in Oakville,” said Mulroy. “Oops.”

From its inception, TRI has been primarily a residential roofing contractor. Over the years, the company has expanded its expertise to include commercial flat roofs and larger shingle jobs, such as townhouse complexes.

TRI offers an extensive range of services, from roof repairs, siding, and eavestroughs to masonry, skylights, and aluminum work.

This diversification has allowed TRI to serve a broad client base with varied needs.

Mulroy estimated that TRI completes between 250 and 400 jobs annually, ranging from minor repairs to fullroof replacements.

“I’d estimate 70 per cent of our work is in the Beach area. I can say, there isn’t a street in the Beach area that we haven’t worked on. We’ve also done plenty of maintenance work at the Balmy Beach Club,” he noted.

This local focus has cemented TRI’s reputation as a dependable and communityoriented business.

Carole Vaughan-Mulroy, Mulroy’s wife of 25 years and the Office Manager at

TRI for the past 18 years, has been integral to the company’s operations. Tim acknowledged Carole’s wealth of experience in customer service, and credits her for maintaining the company’s financial integrity.

“Our books and finances are always kept in impeccable order. I owe that to Carole.”

In addition to the Mulroys, TRI’s team is composed of specialized crews tailored to different aspects of roofing and construction. There are dedicated teams for flat roofs, sloped shingled roofs, aluminum jobs, and masonry work.

This specialization ensures that each job is handled by experts, providing high-quality and efficient service.

Typically, an averagesized shingled roof can be completed in one day, while flat roofs might take one to two days.

The company’s vision and values are rooted in achieving and sustaining high performance.

According to Mulroy, the key to TRI’s success lies in the deliberate choices made by its leadership.

“Many competing companies can, for a time, appear almost identical. But over time, their performances start to vary, revealing their true differences,” he said.

TRI actively manages the interaction between leadership, strategy, innovation, and technical knowledge to produce outstanding and sustainable results.

Mulroy, a Beach resident for more than 35 years, expressed his deep appreciation for the neighbourhood’s support.

“Best thing about operating in the Beach? Great people. I can’t imagine a community like it anywhere else in Canada,” he said.

As Toronto Roofing Industries Ltd. commemorates its 20th anniversary, it emphasizes two decades of commitment to quality service and community engagement; reflecting the company’s dedication to excellence in maintaining Toronto’s roofs and supporting local neighbourhoods.

To learn more about Toronto Roofing Industries Ltd., or to book roofing services, or visit the website at www.torontoroofingindustries.com

sought for 2024 Beach Citizen of the Year

NOMINATIONS ARE now being accepted for the 2024 Beach Citizen of the Year Award.

Anyone who has worked hard to improve life in the Beach neighbourhood, has impacted the community and the people in it, has made a tangible difference in the community over a long period, and has inspired others to do the

same can be nominated for Beach Citizen of the Year. This award is only available to people who have volunteered their time to the community without pay. The award has been handed out to outstanding community members since 2001.

Deadline for nominations is Aug. 23, at 5 p.m. with the final selection being made on Sept. 3, and the ceremony taking place on Oct. 5.

Nomination forms for the 2024 Beach Citizen of the Year are available at www. centre55.com/community_programs/ beach-citizen-of-the-year. Nominations should be sent to Beach Citizen of the Year, Community Centre 55, 97 Main St., Toronto, ON, M4E 2V6.

PHOTO: ERIN HORROCKS-POPE

Tim Mulroy, founder of Toronto Roofing Industries Ltd., at a job at St. John the Baptist Norway Anglican Church on Woodbine Avenue, recently.

Concert set for Sunday, June 2

‘East’ from Page 1 and their husbands fought in Italy so the band’s early years in the post-war world are very memorable for him as they would perform Wednesday night concerts at hospitals and nursing homes.

The band was also frequently commissioned to provide musical entertainment for skaters at the Scarborough Skating Club, he recalled.

After the Toronto megacity amalgamation became official at the start of 1998, the EYCB started putting on more of their own concerts. They hold two major concerts a year in the winter and spring, along with smaller performances. They have the memorial concert and sometimes play at Sunnybrook Veterans Centre.

The fact that Welton has stuck around for 75 years means the band must be doing something right, he said.

Russell Sutherland is the band’s president. He’s been a member for about four years and plays the euphonium, which is like a small tuba. The EYCB is volunteerbased and Sutherland’s main role is to preside over meetings along with the rest of the executive board.

“It’s fun, you get to meet people, it’s great to make

music together. You can always do a better job together than any one of you,” he said. “And some of us are reliving our high school years as well.”

Many eras have passed since the band’s inception and having a stable community of musicians in the band is something special that needs to be preserved, said Sutherland.

“To have an original person in your band is a massive thing which gives it substance as roots are important. We have an original guy in the band and that is just spectacular,” said Sutherland about Welton’s continuing involvement with EYCB. “It’s a great symbol of the longevity of the band.”

A lot of community concert bands across the city have folded in recent years, and Sutherland was pleasantly surprised when this season saw an increase of 10 new members in the EYCB.

“They’re all pretty experienced players and they’re all good players. We’ve had a boost which has been great for the community but also for the music,” he said.

Throughout three-quarters of a century, the band has been led by many conductors. This year is conductor David Lum’s first season with the band. He retired in

2021 after a career as a music teacher at the Toronto District School Board, most recently as the head of music at Agincourt Collegiate Institute in Scarborough.

Lum said that he’s failing in retirement since he still teaches music education at York University and is busy as a festival adjudicator. When he heard that the EYCB was looking for a new conductor, he applied and was hired.

He quickly understood the draw and importance of the EYCB.

“My perspective is that they’re a group of people that like to be in the same room together, they’re a lovely community of people that like to play music together,” said Lum.

Part of what contributes to the band’s prosperity is that they keep fun and good company as the priority. For them, it’s a community first and a band second.

“Their focus is different. We play music that’s challenging enough for everyone but entertaining to the audience and we do it to the best of our abilities,” said Lum.

For inquiries about tickets for the 75th anniversary concert, contact tickets@eastyorkconcertband.ca. For more info on the band, visit www. eastyorkconcertband.ca

Answering the question what are they marching for?

AlAn ShAckleton Beach Metro News Editor

On Page 20 of today’s paper there’s a story by one of our Malvern Collegiate co-op students about D-Day.

Writer Jack Skinner mentions I had assigned him a story about DDay and what high school students knew or thought about it 80 years later. But as often happens in jour-

nalism, the story that was found was not the one that was expected.

The facts get in the way and mess up our pre-conceived notions.

I was going to start this column with some lines from the 1971 song by Eric Bogle, called And the Band

Played Waltzing Matilda. The lines of the song are:

“And I see my old comrades, how proudly they march

Reviving old dreams of past glories

And the old men march slowly, old bones stiff and sore

They’re tired old heroes from a

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Letters to the Editor

forgotten war

And the young people ask, “what are they marching for?”

And I ask myself the same question

But the band plays Waltzing Matilda

And the old men still answer the call

But as year follows year, more old men disappear

Someday no one will march there at all”

Though this song was written in 1971 it’s about the experience of a young Australian soldier in the

First World War. My intention in assigning the story to Jack was to see if today’s high school students asked, knew or cared what “are they marching for” when they see a Remembrance Day or a D-Day parade.

I assumed I knew the answer and was working myself up for a lecture to those “young people” on the price paid for freedom and how it must never be forgotten. But it turns out they do know and care.

All of which leads me to Sunday, June 9, when the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11 will hold a

parade on Kingston Road to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day (which we know was on June 6, 1944). There’s more details on the parade, to be followed by a memorial service in St. John’s Norway Cemetery, in our front-page story. One thing, though, is that the parade will be the living proof of the song’s line about the old men disappearing given that it was 80 years ago. But there will still be Legion members and other veterans marching in the June 9 parade. I’ll be there to show my support and remember. Will you?

Reader angry at irresponsible owners after being bitten by unleashed dog

Re: ‘Irresponsible dog owners a continuing problem,’ In My Opinion, Alan Shackleton, April 30, Beach Metro Community News.

My name is Tak Bui, 74, a retired graphic artist and resident of the Beach area for more than four decades. I’d like to report that I actually got bit on my knee by an unleashed pit bull on May 10 around noon while walking alone on Bingham Avenue south of Kingston Road.

I went immediately to be treated at the Michael Garron Hospital emergency with a tetanus shot and antibiotics.

I’ve reported the incident with photos (see attached) to the city public health and animal control.

After reading your recent editorial and other unleashed-dog concerned writings, I thought you should know about this real incident.

It sure left me shaken and angry at those irresponsible dog owners in our neighbourhood!

Tak Bui

Colonial relationship with Indigenous people still going on

On May 23, the City of Toronto held a celebration for Newcomer Day at Nathan Phillips Square, but how much do Torontonians know about First Nations or Indigenous issues before they become Canadians?

Canada is a settler state. Canada was built on the basis of colonization and immigration. Canadian settler people have a poor understanding of the nation-to-nation relationship and the special significance of First Nations treaty rights.

The Imperial government of Great Britain began the establishment of nation-to-nation treaties with First Nations prior to Confederation. The fiduciary obligations of the Crown are not being upheld and honoured to rectify the injustices Indigenous people inherited from the historical legacy of colonialism and European concepts of law.

Canada Day is a celebration of colonialism or an assertion of colonial rule over Indigenous people.

Duncan Campbell Scott held several roles with the colonial settler government, such as being the former Treaty Commissioner of the

Crown, Deputy superintendent-general of Indian Affairs and an architect of genocide and “Institutional Assimilation”.

Canada, as a society, is still in denial about its historical and current colonialism when it comes to Indigenous people, and how the country is still largely based on the white supremacism of its founding document, the British North America Act of 1867.

White privilege and systemic racism continue to be significant issues for the Indigenous people of Canada.

To become a Canadian citizen, prior to the 1961 amendment to the colonial Indian Act, status Indians or First Nations on reserves had to enfranchise or relinquish their Indian status; they would also be removed from the band membership list once they became doctors, lawyers and ministers, etc...

The Reconciliation process is about dismantling the on-going colonial relationship between Indigenous people and mainstream society.

Michael Cheena, Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Advocate

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Tak Bui sent in this photo of his knee after he was bitten by an unleashed dog in the Bingham Avenue and Kingston Road area on May 10.

Beach Guild of Fine Art set to host Spring Show and Sale this weekend

THE BEACH Guild of Fine Art (BGFA) will celebrate its 30th anniversary of creating paintings and promoting art appreciation in the Beach by hosting an art show at Beach United Church this weekend.

The Spring Art Show and Sale opens on the evening of Friday, May 31, and continues through Saturday, June 1, and Sunday, June 2.

The Guild’s first show was in the fall of 1994, featuring six local artists in the newly formed cooperative. Since then the Guild has grown to a membership of 60 full members with 10 support members.

The beautiful Beach neighbourhood and surrounding areas is always an inspiration throughout all seasons and for the BGFA members.

This weekend’s show feature a number of different techniques and mediums; the painting styles and images range from abstract to high realism,

The Spring Show has traditionally been just smaller works of art but this year there will be large paintings as well as a boutique offering note cards and gift items.

The show will be featuring the works of 30 artists, including Sandra Duggan, Paul Corby and Usha Kumar.

Duggan is a Toronto native and after a career in TV and advertising focused her talents on her artwork.

She has been painting and drawing since she was a child but for the last 30 years has been developing her talents taking workshops and classes from many of Toronto’s better-known water colourists, some taught at the Cedar Ridge Creative Centre. She has also taken workshops with Jennifer Cline, a past member of the Guild.

Duggan enjoys experimenting in new

from May

to June

methods and ideas to create with this medium whether doing plein air or working in her studio on shapes and patterns in still life.

Corby, a long time Beach resident and 10-year Guild member, is a selftaught musician and artist.

He began painting in acrylics 20 years ago, inspired by a week spent at the Gibraltar Point Artscape. Corby’s art is a vibrant fusion of musical inspiration and abstract shapes. He often depicts Toronto musicians and the Ontario Music community.

His stylistic influences include Quebec’s Automatistes and Toronto’s Kim Dorland. During the spring show Corby will be engaging with the community at the corner of Queen and Wineva, inviting passers-by to visit the exhibition.

Kumar, originally from Sri Lanka, draws inspiration from nature for her colourful landscapes and cityscapes. A self-taught artist, Kumar’s works often

feature animals and birds, capturing their unique personalities and the serene beauty of the natural world.

She primarily uses acrylics for their fast-drying properties and excellent finish.

Kumar enjoys exploring new techniques and textures to add depth and dimension to her art. Her participation in numerous exhibitions and group shows highlight her commitment to innovation and storytelling through her artwork.

The BGFA invites everyone to join in celebrating three decades of artistic excellence this weekend.

Show times are Friday, May 31 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave.

For more information about this weekend’s show and the Guild’s members, please go to www.beachguildoffineart.com

St. Denis Catholic School Pride Committee to host screening of movie With Wonder in June

edition of the St. Denis Catholic School Pride celebrations

take place on Friday, May 31, at the Balsam Avenue school.

The celebrations begin in the morning with an assembly that will include a speech by principal Anthony Pauk, a slide presentation and a drama club play based on the booked Except When They Don’t.

At mid-day there will be a visit to the school from an ice cream truck, and rainbow sprinkles are on the menu.

At 2 p.m., parents of students are invited for the official flag drop, more speeches and presentations, and a DJ dance party.

New as part of this year’s St. Denis Pride celebrations will be a free screening of the movie With Wonder on June 12 at the Fox Theatre on Queen Street

East in the Beach.

The screening is open to everyone to attend, and is organized by the St. Denis Pride Committee. Those wishing to attend are asked to book their tickets in advance by going to https://docs.google. com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8o_en_RXEtqDPRQ8UofDfHXDzHkaa60rm5fykSJhvpVgdpw/viewform

With Wonder is an award-winning new documentary that investigates the question: Can you be both Christian and Queer? Sharon Lewis, the film’s multi award-winning director, will be at the screening for a question-and-answer session on June 12.

The event begins at 7 p.m. with the screening, followed by the Q & A with Lewis from 8:15 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.

With Wonder is 14+ and parents are welcome to bring their older children,

at their discretion.

The film won the Audience Choice Award of the Reelworld Film Festival 2021, and was internationally recognized and featured in more than a dozen festivals around the world.

The film is born out of award-winning director Lewis’s own muted struggle with not fitting into neat racial/Queer/ Christian boxes.

With Wonder takes an intimate look at the journey of members of the Queer, Christian community of colour, including high profile activists and clerics, in places like Jamaica, New York, London, and Los Angeles.

The St. Denis Pride Committee is made up of volunteer parents AnneMarie Fox, Aurélie Goudal, David Toto, Elisa Moolecherry, Laurent Papaix, Ofelia Loret de Mola, and Sarah Wheeler.

Sandra Duggan’s Still Life will be among the art works featured at the Beach Guild of Fine Art’s Spring Show and Sale at Beach United Church

31

2.

THE THIRD

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Community Calendar

MAY 28: In person recruitment event at Expedia Cruises East York, 2035 Danforth Ave., 6:30-8 p.m. Hosted by Maurice Blagrove and Charlotte Chau. Early retirees, housewives and so on are welcome. Reserve your seats by calling 647-351-6699 or https://promo. expediacruises.com/500080/202405recruitment/

MAY 29: SING! The Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival at the Beach Hebrew Institute, 109 Kenilworth Ave., 7:30 p.m. A free concert, all a cappella, with Ruach Singers, “tradition re-envisioned”, specializing in creating innovative Liturgical and Hebrew vocal music. They bring a fresh approach to the traditional sound, taking style cues from Contemporary Jazz/Pop A Cappella and Modern World Music. Free but tickets required. Tickets and info: https://singtoronto.tickit.ca/events/23322

MAY 31 & JUNE 1: ‘Colourbration’ at Beaches Presbyterian Church, 65 Glen Manor Drive, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. This art exhibit, celebrating the work of Mary Addison, Livia Gombor and Avery Pitcher, features paintings, drawings, neurographics and photography. Original works and matted, signed prints available. Portions of the proceeds go to support the Arise Ministry and BPC.

MAY 31-JUNE 2: Beach Guild of Fine Art Spring Art Show and Sale at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave. Friday 5-8 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Original artwork, paintings, note cards, gift items.

JUNE 1: Plant Sale, East York Garden Club, 72 Binswood Ave. (between Plains Rd. and Cosburn Ave.), 11 a.m.2 p.m. Perennial, annual and native plants, all from members’ gardens. Cash only please. Most plants $5.

JUNE 1: Kid’s Marketplace at Beaches Recreation Centre, 6 Williamson Rd., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Hosted by Toronto non-profit Kid2Kid. Over 40 youth entrepreneurs, ages 4-16, will be selling their handmade goods at this oneof-a-kind market. Live music, silent auction, fun photo ops, a BBQ hosted by Fearless Meat, and more. Proceeds to Red Door Family Shelter. Info: www.kid2kid.ca

JUNE 1: Plant Sale at Grant AME Church, side yard, 2029 Gerrard St. E., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Featuring various perennials including hostas and herbs.

JUNE 2: East York Concert Band presents “Musical Memories”, a concert that celebrates our remarkable 75th Anniversary, at St. Clement of Ohrid Cathedral Ballroom, 76 Overlea Blvd, 2 p.m. Free parking, Cash bar and refreshments. Adults $15, Students $10, Children 12 and under – free. Info: tickets@eastyorkconcertband.ca

JUNE 4: AbZolutely Choir Toronto Upper Beach presents a year-end fundraising concert for Kingston Road United Church ‘Raise Our Roof’ Campaign at KRUC, 975 Kingston Rd., 7 p.m. An evening of song directed by Abby Zotz. Tickets $15 advance, $20 at door, $5 ages 12 and under. Info: www.abzolutelychoir.ca, www.kruc.ca

JUNE 8: DECA’s 10th annual Community Yard Sale. Last year over 200 residents in the community participated. It is a great opportunity to do some spring cleaning! Info: deca.to/yardsale/

JUNE 8: Spring Sale at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, 904 Coxwell Ave., 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., set up 7-8 a.m. (rain date June 15). Vendors wanted! Tables $45. For rentals, please call church office Mon/Wed/ Fri 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at 416-421-6878 x 21.

JUNE 8: Beaches Sandbox Speakeasy Jazz Night featuring Dave Young Quartet and Alison Young Quartet, hosted by Shakura S’Aida, at 2181 Queen St. E., 8 p.m. Tickets on sale now 19+ at www.beachessandbox.com. Proceeds support Beaches Sandbox programs for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

JUNE 9: D-Day Parade & Memorial at St. John’s Norway Cemetery. Parade starts at 1:45 p.m. from Norway Jr. PS (390 Kingston Rd), marching west on Kingston Rd. towards Woodbine, north on Woodbine to North Cemetery entrance of St. John’s Norway, directly to the Veteran Section of the Cemetery. Service at 2:15 p.m. March off 3:15 p.m. from Cemetery back towards Norway Jr. PS with parade dispersing from Elmer Ave.

JUNE 12: Annual General Meeting of the members of Community Centre 55 at 97 Main St., 7 p.m. for the purpose of considering and taking action with respect to the following: to approve the financial statements of Community Centre 55 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023; to receive our Program report; and to fill 1 vacancy on the Board of Management. Info: Reza Khoshdel, Executive Director, Community Centre 55: 416-691-1113 ext. 225

JUNE 12: Scarborough Garden & Horticultural Society at Scarborough Village Recreation Centre, Kingston/Markham Rds., 7:30 p.m. “More Scams and Frauds” by Pat Foran, award-winning journalist with CTV News Toronto “Consumer Alert”. Free. Refreshments included. Guests welcome.

JUNE 15: SlobberFest at the Leuty Pavilion on the boardwalk (foot of Lee Ave.), 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Presented by Community Centre 55. Events include Best Costume, Fashion Show, Longest and Shortest Tail, Best Canine Trick, Dog/Owner Look-a-Like, and more. Pet product vendors and services, too. Free admission. Vendor info: jennifer@centre55.com. Info: www.centre55.com

JUNE 20: AGM of Ward 9 Community News Inc., publisher of Beach Metro Community News, 5 p.m. Details are on page 19 of this edition. This is a members-only meeting. Cutoff date for purchase of $5.00 memberships is June 13 at 5 p.m., at the Beach Metro News office, 2196 Gerrard St. E. Deadline for nominations for the board is June 6 at 5 p.m.

JUNE 20: East End CHC 2024 AGM at 1619 Queen St. E., 6:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:10 p.m.). Come out to learn more about our programs and services. Become a member or renew your membership. Hear guest speakers Yulia and Justin talk about Nutrition for Brain Health. Enjoy refreshments with Centre staff & volunteers.

JUNE 22: Least of the Apostles: A modern retelling of the life of Paul of Tarsus at St. John The Compassionate

Mission, 155 Broadview Ave., 11-11:30 a.m. Join us for this unique community-based theater experience, followed by a free community BBQ. Free admission. Donation of food towards our food bank is welcome. Info: 416-466-1357

JUNE 22: A Senior Moment luncheon at the Stone Lion, 1958 Queen St E, 1:30 pm. To R.S.V.P., please text Colleen 647-829-8042. Visit us on Facebook.

FRIDAYS: GRANTFUL FOOD AND FELLOWSHIP Food Bank and Soup Kitchen, 2029 Gerrard Street E., is open from 3:30 to 6:00 pm. Registration is required. New clients must present identification for members in their household on their first visit. Time slots are handed out and clients are encouraged to arrive at the food bank the time slot they selected. Info. 416 -690-5169.

BEACH CITIZEN OF THE YEAR nominations are now open. Do you know someone who has worked hard, over a period of time, to improve life in the Beach community? Nomination forms and info are available at www.centre55.com. Deadline for submissions is Friday, August 23, 2024 by 5 p.m.

RCL TODMORDEN BR. 10, 1083 Pape Avenue will be one of 13 sites participating in the 25th Golden Triangle Giant Garage Sale on June 1, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. BBQ and bake sale. Please park on side streets or EY Community Centre.

BEACH PHOTO CLUB meets 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

GERRARD ASHDALE LIBRARY, 1432 Gerrard St. E. •June 1 & 8: Chess Club, 1-4 p.m. For all ages. Enjoy a few games of chess. Drop-in. •June 4: Seniors E-Connect, 4-6 p.m. Seniors are invited to drop in for one-on-one tech help from staff and youth volunteers. Bring your device and your questions. Tea and biscuits will be served. •June 10: Make Wire-Wrapped Stone Pendants, 7-8 p.m. For young adults age 18-24. Register at the branch: 416-393-7717

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

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

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

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 10:30am. Services are led by our creative and passionate music director Steven Webb and our minister Rev. Greg Daly. Our Pride service will be held on June 2, and we will be holding a special outdoor service on June 17 for the Blessing of the Pet. All pets are welcome! Info: beachunitedchurch.com ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 794 Kingston Rd. Weekend Masses: Sat. Vigil at 4:30 pm, Sun. 9 & 11 am. Weekday Masses with Rosary: Tue. - Fri. Doors open and Rosary begins at 7:45 am followed by Mass at 8:15 am. Confessions every Sat. 3:45 to 4:15 pm or by appt. Info: stjohnsto.archtoronto.org, 416-698-1105 NEIGHBOURHOOD UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION, 310 Danforth Ave (entrance north on Jackman at Hurndale). Weekly Sunday services begin at 10:30 a.m. We are a vibrant, family-friendly, and welcoming community of individuals all on the same path. Unitarian Universalism (UU) is a liberal and inclusive religious movement that emphasizes individual spiritual exploration, social justice, and the inherent worth and dignity of every person. With no creed or dogma, it brings people with diverse beliefs together, through shared values. Our Lifespan Learning program offers engaging and age-appropriate programs that nurture our children’s sense of wonder, exploring spirituality, values, and the world around them through storytelling, arts and crafts, and interactive discussions. Info: www.nuuc.ca

THE CHURCH OF ST. AIDAN (Anglican), 2423 Queen St. E., welcomes you to join us for Sunday worship at 8:30 a.m. (spoken service) and 10:30 a.m. (with music and children’s and youth programs). Nursery care for infants and toddlers is available during the 10:30 service. Our energetic, active faith community is committed to following Jesus as we gather for meaningful worship, spiritual growth, and community engagement. We live this out through our vibrant children’s and youth programs, diverse sacred music offerings, and active community outreach and environmental stewardship ministries. Weekly euchre concludes its season on May 28 at 7 p.m.; euchre resumes in the fall, date TBD. Info: www.staidansinthebeach.com or 416.691.2222

GRANT AME CHURCH, 2029 Gerrard St E., invites you to our Worship Service Sundays at 11 amperson or live streamed on ZOOM, YouTube and Facebook. Bible Study Wednesdays 7 pm on ZOOM. Please join us in prayer Wednesdays at 6:30 am on our prayer line. DialIn No.: 1 587 405 1252 Access Code: 700 6901#. Info: www. grantame.com, grantamechurch@yahoo.ca, 416-690-5169 ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST NORWAY Anglican Church, 470 Woodbine Ave. Welcome to St. John the Baptist Norway! We are a growing community which enjoys the Anglican expression of the Christian faith. We gather to connect with one another and worship God on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. In-Person/Livestream and at 5 p.m. In-Person for The Table, a contemporary service followed by a simple community supper. Our Food Pantry is open Mondays 10 a.m.-12 noon. Info: stjohnsnorway.com, 416-691-4560

proudly presented by Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford

Tiarrés Brunch N’Bistro now open on Queen Street East

By Erin Horrocks-Pope

TIARRÉ’S BRUNCH N’ Bis-

tro has officially opened its doors at the intersection of Waverley Road and Queen Street East in the Beach.

This establishment, the second under the Tiarré’s brand, has taken over the prime corner lot previously occupied by Riptide and, before that, The Salty Dog. The opening of Tiarré’s Brunch N’ Bistro follows the success of Tiarré’s Brunch N’ Cakes on Bayview Avenue.

Owners Anotha Thamesh and her husband, Tam Thiyaga, took over the popular Toronto brunch spot Sophie’s Kitchen last year and rebranded it with their unique flair.

The couple, who also founded Ancaster meal prep business Set The Table Kitchen & Co., bring years of hospitality experience and a passion for culinary excellence to their new venture.

Thamesh shared her enthusiasm with Beach Metro Community News recently, revealing that she has long dreamed of joining the Beach community.

“It’s just such a beautiful place,” she said. “I’ve loved it here since I was younger and visited as much as I could. I’ve always wanted to live here or open a business here one day, and I’m so happy that it’s actually happened.”

Tiarrés had its soft open-

ing on the Friday of Mother’s Day weekend, and according to Thamesh, it’s been bustling with activity ever since.

“The restaurant is my little baby right now,” she admitted, noting that she’s been so busy over the past few weeks that she’s barely even made it home to sleep some nights. A more elaborate grand opening is planned for early June.

The name Tiarrés, chosen in honour of the owners’ 13-year-old daughter, carries a special significance. Tiarré is a French Polynesian name referencing the tiare flower, also known as the Tahitian Gardenia. This fragrant flower, a symbol of love and purity in Polynesian culture, encapsulates the essence of the café’s ambiance - elegant and refined.

Symbolically, this choice echoes the legacy of Sophie’s Kitchen, the business they took over, which was also named in honour of the previous owners’ daughter, underscoring the current owners’ commitment to family values and tradition.

At their Bayview location, Thamesh and Thiyaga introduced a high tea experience, starting at $35 per person, which soared in popularity for its delicious sophistication. Thamesh noted that too few places in Toronto offer high tea outside high-end hotels, making Tiarré’s a unique destination.

Both locations boast bright interiors with modern yet luxurious furnishings, providing a welcoming atmosphere for patrons.

However, the Beach location goes a step further by introducing a dinner menu featuring European fares, such as Spanish paella and Mediterranean lamb, inspired by the couple’s travels.

The Euro-themed café and bistro prioritizes high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, and dishes are meticulously prepared in-house. They’ve even partnered with Cobs Bread, a beloved Toronto bakery, to ensure the freshest bread for their offerings.

Among the bistro’s standout dishes are the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Sophie’s Breakfast, and their renowned Eggs Bennington (Eggs Benedict). Thamesh is particularly excited about launching their high tea service later this spring, which she reports diners have been eagerly inquiring about already. High tea will be available Fridays to Sundays from 3 p.m. by reservation only.

As warm weather awakens the Beach community into its busy season, Thamesh and her team are confident that Tiarré’s Brunch N’ Bistro will quickly become a local favourite for both residents and visitors.

For more info, go to https:// brunchncakes.com

PHOTO: ERIN HORROCKS-POPE

Anotha Thamesh (second from left) with members of the Tiarrés Brunch N’ Bistro team. The new bistro recently opened at the corner of Waverley Road and Queen Street East in the Beach.

Reel Beach: Movies in East Toronto

Some classic films have not aged well

Bernie Fletcher

Movies are a product of the era in which they were created and reflect what’s going on in society at the time.

Gone with the Wind (1939) portrayed a romanticized antebellum South of slavery. The Black actors in the film were not even allowed to attend the premiere in Atlanta. Hattie McDaniel became the first African-American actor to win an Academy Award, but she was not seated with her white cast members.

McDaniel also had a role in Song of the South (1946), but the offensive stereotypes in that film are so problematic that it is locked in the Disney vault. We won’t be singing along with the Oscar-winning Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961) is marred by a racist caricature of Mr. Yunioshi played by Mickey Rooney. Similar Asian stereotypes are played for laughs at a Chinese restaurant (actually Batifole on Gerrard Street East) in A Christmas Story (1983). Filmed mostly in Toronto, A Christmas Story is set in the 1940s when fathers were called “the old man” and mothers were usually “housewives”, not to mention that a child wants a B.B. rifle as a present. Gun toys were popular at a time when kids emulated their Western movie heroes like John Wayne and played “cowboys and Indians.”

One of the first, big Hollywood movies filmed in Toronto was Silver Streak (1976), an action comedy starring Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor in their first pairing. The film is set aboard a Los Angeles to Chicago train, but filmed mostly in Alberta and Toronto with a spectacular crash at our Union Station. You can even spot signs for GO Transit and CFTO-TV.

The director was Arthur Hiller who knew Toronto well having attended the University of Toronto. There is one train scene filmed on the CPR tracks at Locust Hill near Rouge Park with a CPR 4070 locomotive built in 1952 in London, Ontario. No American railway wanted anything to do with the film because of the train crash.

Who doesn’t love a good train movie? One of the earliest surviving motion pictures is Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat (1895). Some audience members were terrified by the approaching train. Narrative cinema was introduced in 1903 with The Great Train Robbery.

Silver Streak was very popular with audiences. Gene Wilder said he wanted to be like Cary Grant in Alfred Hitchcock’s North by Northwest (1959). Wilder received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor.

However, there is one scene that will go down in history, but not in a good way. In the Union Station washroom,

Wilder dons black shoe polish as a disguise and pretends to be a jive talker. Cringe!

You can catch some local actors in smaller roles in Silver Streak. Steve Weston was a familiar face on television in the 1970s (The Trouble with Tracy) until his 1985 death in a fall from the roof of his home in the Beach. He played a conventioneer along with Henry Beckman and Harvey Atkin. Len Birman played the FBI Chief; Jack Mather the conductor and Ed McNamara portrayed Benny.

June 6th will mark the 80th anniversary of the 1944 D-Day Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied France. Henry Beckman was one of the 14,000 brave Canadian soldiers who landed on Juno Beach in Normandy that fateful day. Beckman earned more than 200 film and television credits, including Breakfast at Tiffany’s Times, attitudes and social mores change. Today you rarely see smoking on television. In the golden days of Hollywood men and women smoked like chimneys and drank like fish, but couldn’t sleep in the same bed.

Walt Disney was a chain-smoker who died of lung cancer at the age of 65. Stars like Humphrey Bogart, John Wayne, Steve McQueen, Yul Brynner and Nat King Cole found out too late that heavy smoking would cause cancer. William B. Davis is known as the cigarette smoking man on The X-Files. Davis was born in Toronto and liked to attend the Woodbine Racetrack in the Beach as a teen. He is actually a non-smoker who became a spokesman for the Canadian Cancer Society.

Freedom of expression is a controversial topic these days. What is “offensive” in your mind? Richard Pryor pushed the boundaries of comedy in his stand-up act. There is a fine line between humour and scenes that offend.

The next time you watch a classic film, think about the culture and attitudes of the day.

Henry Beckman and Gene Wilder at Union Station in Silver Streak (1976). Can you spot the CN Tower and the CFTO-TV sign?

Volunteers sought to help out with East York Canada Day events

By Sean Sandieson

THE EAST York Canada Day Committee is seeking volunteers to help out with the 68th annual East York Canada Day Festival.

The event occurs on Monday, July 1, rain or shine.

The celebrations begin with a parade starting at Dieppe Park at 455 Cosburn Ave. at 10:30 a.m.

The parade travels along Cosburn to Woodbine Avenue and then makes its way northeast to Stan Wadlow Park for the festival that begins at 11 a.m. Stan Wadlow Park is located at 373 Cedarvale Ave. The Canada Day festivities in East York will wrap up with

a fireworks display in Stan Wadlow Park starting at approximately 10 p.m.

The East York Canada Day Festival is run entirely by volunteers and is the longest-running event of its kind in the Greater Toronto Area, first starting in 1956. The festival in Stan Wadlow Park features attractions such as midway rides, food, artisans, activities for all ages, a splash pad, all-day entertainment on the main stage hosted by Joe Motiki, a local craft beer garden sponsored by Muddy York Brewing, and an expected roster of more than 70 vendors.

For more info on the East York Canada Day Festival and how to volunteer, please visit https://eycdc.ca/get-involved

East End Kids Pride Parade slated for Dentonia Park this Saturday

IN JUNE 2023, a seven-year-old girl asked her two moms if she could organize a Pride parade for her friends; a week later 300 people showed up to celebrate the first East End Kids Pride Parade at Maryland Park, located across the street from Dentonia Park.

This year, the East End Kids Pride Parade and celebration is slated to take place at Dentonia Park, 80 Thyra Ave., on Saturday, June

1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Many activities and performances will happen throughout the day including stilt walkers, face painting, music, dancing, the Kiki Ballroom dancing performance and the Rainbow Circus performance.

For more on the 2024 East End Pride Parade, visit https://eastendarts.ca/kidspride/?mc_ cid=4142129a24&mc_eid=63790d97a3

Upcoming arts markets set for Kew Gardens

ARTS AND crafts will be featured over the next two weekends at Kew Gardens park in the Beach.

On Saturday, June 1, the Queen St. Marketplace Beaches Artisan Market will take place. For more info, go to www.queenstmarketplace.com

The following weekend (June 8 and 9), Kew Gardens plays host to the Beaches Arts and Crafts Show. The Pop-Up Summer Market is in support of The Neighbourhood Group. For info, go to www.beachesartsandcrafts.com

Kew Gardens park is located at 2075 Queen St. E.

Yellow House Framing celebrates 10 years on Kingston Road

By Erin Horrocks-Pope

YELLOW HOUSE Framing in Kingston Road Village is celebrating a significant milestone this May - 10 years of serving the community.

Christina Kostoff opened the shop in 2014, just a couple of steps east of Balsam Avenue. Initially, it was a gallery space to highlight emerging artists, with a framing business on the side. Over the years, the business evolved, focusing exclusively on specialty framing services in response to community demand.

Kostoff, who began her journey in framing roughly two decades ago while studying at OCAD (Ontario College of Art and Design), brings a wealth of experience to her craft. She honed

her skills at several prominent framing houses in Toronto before opening her own framing house.

“I wanted to create a space that showcased local art and helped people preserve their

cherished memories,” said Kostoff. She prides herself on her framing work, offering unique consultation services to clients to ensure their cherished memories, from

baby shoes to doctorates, are framed to last.

Her dedication to her craft and community has not gone unnoticed. In 2021, Yellow House Framing was awarded Best Picture Framing Shop in Toronto by NOW Toronto, a recognition Kostoff still feels immense pride in.

“Thank you to everyone who voted and everyone who supports my shop. I have enjoyed meeting so many amazing people over the years and have gotten to frame such beautiful items,” she expressed in an Instagram post highlighting the achievement.

Yellow House Framing was also a finalist in last year’s Toronto Star’s Reader’s Choice Awards. This recognition further solidifies the shop’s reputation for ex-

cellence within the community.

During her decade of running Yellow House Framing, Kostoff has formed strong relationships with her customers, including prominent members of the Beach Guild of Fine Art and other local artists.

She told Beach Metro Community News that her favourite aspect of operating her business has been following families’ journeys through time.

“The most rewarding part of the job is sharing in the lives and milestones of the families I’ve served over the years,” said Kostoff.

She has had clients come in to frame their child’s first drawing, and years later, she’s framing their graduation certificates.

Kostoff uses an “art focus” to ensure that all types of memories are protected in a way that can be proudly displayed in the home. She prides herself on offering accessible pricing points while focusing on preservation and presenting her clients with high-quality displays.

Currently, Yellow House Framing is holding a 10th anniversary sale with reduced prices on select mouldings.

Kostoff said she looks forward to serving the community for many years to come and is grateful for all of the individuals, families, and businesses that support her shop at 921 Kingston Rd. in the Kingston Road Village. For more information on Yellow House Framing, please go to www.yellowhousegallery.ca

PHOTO: ERIN HORROCKS-POPE

Christina Kostoff is celebrating the 10th anniversary of Yellow House Framing at 921 Kingston Rd. in the Kingston Road Village this month.

Jazz at the Kingston House every Thursday

BOTTLES

Dashwood & Dashwood

JUNE WORKSHOPS WEN

Dashwood & Dashwood is a general practice law firm

Estates

SATURDAY 1st – 11am – 4pm

KINGSTON RD VILLAGE SPRING FESTIVAL

WEDNESDAY 5th – 11:30am to 2:30pm WATERCOLOUR GARDENS

THURSDAY 6th – 7pm to 9pm

READ EASY: SIP< READ & SHARE

FRIDAY 7th – 9:30am to 3:30pm

“EVERYTHING RAINBOW” PA DAY CAMP

SATURDAY 15th – 10am to 1pm KINTSUGI FOR BEGINNERS

SATURDAY 15th – 2:30pm to 5:30pm JESMONITE MARBLE TRINKET TRAYS

WEDNESDAY 19th – 10:30am to 2:30pm PAPER QUILLING LAVENDER TEACUP

THURSDAY 20th – 6:30pm to 9:30pm INTERMEDIATE RING MAKING (PART TWO)

FRIDAY 7th – 4:30pm to 6pm DIT (DO-IT-TOGETHER) FATHERS DAY DIORAMAS FRIDAY 21st – 6:30pm to 9:30pm VINTAGE BOTANICAL PAINTING

SATURDAY 8th – 10am to 1:30pm

RAINBOW SUNCATCHER STAINED GLASS

SATURDAY 8th – 2:30pm to 4:30pm

SUNDAY 9th – 10am to 1pm

FUNDAMENTALS OF NEEDLE FELTING

TUESDAY 11th – 6:30pm to 9:30pm

“BREWTIFUL” FATHER’S DAY GLASS ENGRAVING

WEDNESDAY 12th – 6pm to 9:30pm DROP OF SUNSHINE STAINED GLASS

SATURDAY 22nd – 10am to 1pm POLYMER CLAY EARRINGS

ALCOHOL INK PAINTING SATURDAY 22nd – 2:30pm to 5:30pm OVER AND OVER: REPEAT PATTERN BLOCK

SUNDAY 23rd – 10:00am to 1pm ADVANCED EMBROIDERY ON CANVAS SHOES

TUESDAY 25th and WEDNESDAY 26th LAST DAY OF MOOI MAKER CLUB

WEDNESDAY 26th – 7pm to 9pm UFO NIGHT – (UNFINISHED OBJECTS)

THURSDAY 13th – 6:30pm to 9:30pm FRIDAY 28th - 7pm to 9pm

INTERMIDIATE RING MAKING (PART ONE) CRAFTY CAFÉ: SIP AND CRAFT

FRIDAY 14th – 6:30pm to 9:30pm

LEATHERCRAFT FOR BEGINNERS

A look back to Hollywood

By David Van Dyke

Thank you to Janice Habasinski for forwarding me this incredible image. Taken in 1928 on ski Sr.) built.

The photo also shows Janice’s then six-year-old Aunt Cathy standing at the forefront with News readers. Thanks again Janice.

Do you have an old photograph of your house that you’d like to share with our readers? Please

Addition to Kingston Road building affordable housing units for Indigenous

By Amarachi Amadike, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

BEACHES-EAST YORK will be adding 24 new affordable housing units to its growing stock as the City of Toronto marches on in the fight against a rising cost of living.

The latest addition is a development at 136 Kingston Rd. (north of Dundas Street East) built by Akwa Honsta Inc, a non-profit housing provider focused on offering rent-geared-to-income and market apartments to members of the Indigenous community.

“We need to be doing everything we can to build more housing for everyone who wants to call Toronto home,” said Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford.

The development, which aims to serve senior members of the Indigenous community over the age of 59, has the financial as-

sistance of the City of Toronto’s Program, an initiative created in erate affordable housing construction contributions including capital funding relief, fast-tracking planning approvals, public land”.

The project also received assistance ment, and the federal government.

“I’m proud of the financial support of government that helped make Bradford.

Akwa Honsta’s development is isting four-storey apartment building. they will provide 15 one-bedroom

Public meeting on proposal for 9

By Amarachi Amadike, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

TORONTO AND East York Community Council will host a public meeting on Tuesday, June 11, to discuss a development proposal at 9 Benlamond Ave.

The developer, 12850938 ONTARIO INC., resubmitted its zoning application on Apr. 20, 2024 with hopes of getting approval to the development of a four-storey low-rise apartment building at the site which is on the south side of Benlamond Avenue just west of Main Street. There is currently a low-rise detached residential building on the site. The latest proposal seeks 16 residential units

consisting of eight two-bedroom units. According to a letter sent to cy Inc., which represents the developer, ate a “missing middle typology of proximity to transit and a major The development has a proposed square metres. There will be a spaces in the underground parking cated to visitors. There will be 18

The June 11 meeting will take Room 1 at Toronto City Hall, 100 Queen

Hollywood Crescent in 1928

Please contact me at gdvandyke61@gmail.com

building will provide 24 new Indigenous community members

Open Door Affordable Housing in 2016 with a mandate to “accelconstruction by providing City financial funding and fees and property tax approvals, and activating surplus assistance from the provincial governgovernment. support from the city and other levels these new homes possible,” said is a five-storey addition to the exbuilding. With the additional space, units (12 of those being reserved

for senior residents) and nine two-bedroom units for all other age demographics.

According to Bradford’s May 4 newsletter, the development will also include “barrier free units”, a welcomed feature as Toronto is low on buildings that are considered accessible.

“The building will now have the benefit of an elevator to service all floors, an access ramp, new amenity space which will include a cooling centre, and improved laundry facilities,” stated the newsletter.

For more information on the new development, contact Aykler Real Estate Inc. by emailing kristina@aykler.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.

Benlamond Ave. set for June 11

units and eight three-bedroom to the City by The Planning Agendeveloper, the proposal aims to creof development that is desirable in avenue.”

proposed total Gross Floor Area of 1715 total of six residential parking parking level as well as two spots dedibicycle spaces. take place at 9:30 a.m. Committee Queen St. W. Following the public

meeting, Toronto and East York Community Council will forward its recommendations on the proposal to Toronto Council where a final decision will be made. Anyone who would like to participate in the meeting can send written comments to teycc@toronto.ca or can attend the meeting in person.

To address the community council with comments or concerns, residents must register by email the above address or by calling 416-392-7033 before the noon deadline on June 10.

For more information the proposal, please contact City Planner Sean Guenther at Sean.Guenther@toronto.ca.

On The Wild Side

Ann BrokelmAn

is an avid birder

nature photographer naturephotosbyann.blogspot.ca

As many readers could probably guess, I’ve been a wildlife enthusiast my entire life. I grew up in North Bay, spending countless hours camping, boating, and hiking; I was even a Junior Ranger leader for a while. Since moving to the big city, it’s certainly been harder to get out into the woods, though we took our kids camping year after year when they were little. I still enjoy going for walks and making regular trips to places like Algonquin Park (though I prefer to stay in cabins, instead of tents, these days).

I’d always hoped, though never expected, that one day one of my photos might end up being celebrated like the ones in National Geographic. While I’ve had my photos appear in newspapers like this one, online on various

A beautiful reunion celebrated around the world

websites, in nature books, flyer, posters and more I knew it was quite unlikely that I’d ever take a picture that would be a part of an international/viral moment.

Amazingly, my day came on April 4, 2024.

A few days earlier, someone reached out to me that they’d seen a trumpeter swan, down by the lake, with what they thought were blood spots on its back feathers. I drove over, carrying my trusty lens as usual, and parked myself on a rock with a good view of the area.

Two swans, who the world would later know as Mango (Y37) and Charlotte (717), were together on the small sandy beach below me. I took a few photos of them, watching them preen, but saw nothing concerning. After an uneventful hour, and seeing no other swans in the area, I was ready to pack up, head home, and pass on the message that everything was OK.

Just as I was leaving, I looked back one final time, and, to my surprise, Mango

had blood dripping from his mouth and several of his beautiful feathers were now more crimson than white. I had just looked at him barely two minutes earlier and he had been fine.

I immediately called the Toronto Wildlife Centre (TWC) and sent them one of the photos. I guess they also thought it looked rough because they said they’d be on the road ASAP. My next calls were to Peg Everall, a volunteer I’d worked with in the past, to see if they could help.

Within 30 minutes everyone had arrived, and if you’ve never seen Andrew and Sarrah in action, let me tell you: they are incredibly good at what they do. It only took them minutes to come up with a plan, put it into action, and safely have Mango on his way to TWC.

I heard, a day later, that the poor swan had a cut on his beak and the resulting blood actually caused some waterproofing issues. Luckily, neither problem was difficult to work with, and

he would only need to stay with TWC for a few days to get back to normal.

The ‘ready for release’ call came on April 4. I picked up Mango, drove back to the waterfront, and honestly wasn’t expecting anything out of the ordinary. However, if you’re one of the millions of people who’ve seen Deborah Tait’s or Shona Farrelly’s videos, or one of my photos, you know what happened next. (As I’m writing this, the Toronto Star article video has had more than three million views alone).

As we let Mango go, we were so focused on making sure that he was OK that we didn’t realize his mate Charlotte was nearby, resting on the shore. None of us, Art, Shona, Deborah, nor I, could have predicted the reunion of these two magnificent birds.

A few seconds after Mango walked out of his carrier, stretching his wings and neck, Charlotte stood up. They both spread their wings into a similar position, still at a distance, as if

trying to see if the other was who they thought they were. Moments later the honking began, Charlotte starting running/flying over, and Mango did the same towards her.

A near synchronized dance of wings, neck bobs, honks, steps, and tail feather wiggles would only have been more perfect in slow motion and with a romantic soundtrack. All of us were smiling, laughing, and a few tears were shed. If you haven’t seen

the video, please take a few moments to watch, (you can see it with my column on the Beach Metro Community News website) but be warned: you may tear up. Swans mate for life, and I can only imagine what Charlotte must have been thinking when her Mango disappeared. Whatever thoughts and emotions swans are capable of, we got to witness them that day. This was, by far, the most amazing release I’ve ever seen.

PHOTO: ANN BROKELMAN Mango

Mango

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COUNSELLING

Catherine Allon, BSc, MEd Caring Counselling for Life & Relationship Issues 416-694-0232 www.energyawakening.com Spiritual Counselling

William F. Deneault Chartered Accountant

• Corporate & Personal Tax

• Specializing in small to medium business

• Financial advice

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

Kriens LaRose, LLP

Chartered Professional Accountants

• Accounting services for owner-managed businesses.

• Personal and corporation income tax preparation.

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

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

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

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Dashwood & Dashwood

Barristers & Solicitors

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

Snider & DiGregorio

Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries. 978 Kingston Road, Toronto, Ont., M4E 1S9 Tel: 416-699-0424 Fax: 416-699-0285 Email: info@sdlegal.ca

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Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries Public 300 Main Street 416-690-3324

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

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

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HOUGHTON VETERINARY HOUSECALL SERVICES Vaccines, examinations, diagnostics, palliative care, and home euthanasia provided for your pets in the comfort of your own home. Dr. Barbara Houghton 647-221-5516

KAMRULHAFIZAHMED REAL ESTATE LAWYER

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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

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 Beaches Family Law and MEDIATION Linda Bronicheski, J.D. 47 Main Street (at Lyall) 416-763-6884

Mortgages Kinga and Allen Chin Commercial / Residential / Investor Services P: 416-315-0355 955A Kingston Rd, Toronto, M3E 1S8 E: info@guardianmortgages.ca W:www.guardianmortgages.ca Serving the Beaches & GTA Powered by Mortgage Architects License #12728

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Beach Metro Community News Annual General Meeting set for June 20

THE ANNUAL general meeting of Ward 9 Community News Inc, the publisher of Beach Metro Community News, will be held on Thursday, June 20 2024, starting at 5 p.m., for the purpose of receiving the financial statement and reports of the officers and staff, to elect officers for the coming year, and to deal with any new business.

The meeting is open to members of the above association and will take place at the Beach Metro Community News office, 2196 Gerrard St. E.

MEMBERSHIP is outlined in the newspaper’s Constitution, as follows:

“1. Any member of the community where the newspaper is distributed, who is willing to support the aims and objectives of the organization, will be accepted on payment of the current year’s fees ($5.00), and will be a member in good standing, and is eligible to vote if in attendance at the annual general meetings, as long as the current year’s fees are paid.

2. No member shall be under the age of sixteen.

3. No membership will be sold within seven days before the annual meeting (cut off date June 13, 5:00 p.m.).

4. All members of the distribution team, who have worked with the team for a minimum of six months in the year (continually since Dec. 22, 2023), shall be given an automatic membership in Ward 9 Community News Inc for the current year. There are two provisos:

a) Where the distributor is under age, the membership will be in the name of a parent or guardian.

b) Only one free membership will be allowed per family.”

(Distributors may check their status by contacting Melinda at 416-698-1164 ext.27 or emailing melinda@ beachmetro.com).

ELECTIONS are outlined in the newspaper’s Constitution as follows:

“1. Election of officers shall be held at the annual meeting.

dressed to the secretary by Thursday, June 6, 2024 at 5 p.m. Nominations should be accompanied by a description of the nominee’s background with regard to the organization and the general community, together with the signatures of the nominee and the nominator. The names of those seeking office, together with a brief biography, will be published in the issue of Beach Metro Community News immediately preceding the annual meeting (June 11 issue) or online in order that the membership be able to weigh the merits of each candidate and vote accordingly. Notice for the final date for receiving nominations shall be published in the two issues immediately preceding that date (May 14, and May 28, 2024) or online.

3. Where more than one person is nominated for a board vacancy, the chairperson of the meeting shall count the ballots and declare the nominee receiving the most votes elected.

2. Nomination for officers of the organization shall be received in writing, ad-

4. Nominees for the board and nominations shall be members of the Ward 9 Community News Inc. (See paragraphs on membership).

The 80th anniversary of D-Day

What D-Day means to a local high school student

By Jack Skinner

The 80th anniversary of D-Day will happen on Thursday, June 6. On that date in 1944, The Battle of Normandy started for Canada from the D-Day landing site on Juno Beach on the coast of France.

One of the most crucial events during the Second World War, D-Day was the beginning of the push to take back control of western Europe from Nazi Germany by the military forces of Great Britain, France, the United States, Canada and other Allies.

The Allied countries had to invade the five beaches of Normandy, France in order to liberate Europe. Those beaches were called Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno, and Sword. Canada was in charge of Juno Beach.

Canada had 14,000 soldiers, sailors, and airmen fighting on D-Day. By the end of D-Day, there were more than 1,000 casualties among Canadian forces and 381 of them died.

The Battle of Normandy went on in France until late August of 1944, and more than 5,000 Canadians were killed in the battle. My great-grandfather was one of them.

A couple of weeks ago my editor at the Beach Metro Community News asked me to write a story on the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

He wanted me to share the stories of my two great-grandfathers who fought in the Second World War and their connections to D-Day and the Battle of Normandy.

Here are the two stories of my greatgrandfathers’ - Vincent Chapin and Bert Skinner – and what happened to them during the Second World War.

VINCENT LECLAIR-CHAPIN

Vincent Leclair Chapin, my great-grandfather, was a support company commander/ army captain, and the soldiers referred to him as “Captain Chapin”.

Vince joined the 1st Canadian Scottish Regiment in Vancouver as a second lieutenant on Dec. 6, 1941. In May of 1942 he transferred to the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders in Britain.

The Camerons helped fight in the Dieppe Raid in August of 1942 a few months after Vince transferred. A total of 916 Canadians lost their lives in the Dieppe Raid, the Camerons alone suffered 76 casualties and Vince was called on to help reinforce the officer ranks.

During his time in England, Vince went from arms instructor to platoon commander, and to support company commander and was later promoted to captain in March of 1944.

Vince set off from London to Normandy with the Camerons to help with the liberation of Europe a month after D-Day. He landed on July 8, 1944.

A month later, Vince and the Camerons formed part of the second Canadian Corps whose objective was to break the Germans who had hold of the city of Caen, France, around 22 kilometres from Juno Beach.

On Aug. 8, 1944, at about 9 a.m., as the Camerons were holding an orders group, a shell landed in the farmyard where the officers were meeting. The shell killed the commanding officer and the shell splinters wounded three other officers. One of the wounded officers was the support company commander who had just come up to join the group, my great-grandfather Captain Vincent Chapin.

His family received a message a week later notifying them that Vince was wound-

The two men above are the great-grandfathers of Malvern Collegiate student

Jack Skinner who is doing a journalism co-op at Beach Metro Community News this year. Both men were members of the Canadian military during the Second World War.

Above left, Frederick A’delbert ‘Bert’ Skinner who was killed in the battle for Foret la Londe in France on Aug. 19, 1944.

Above right, Vincent Leclair Chapin who was wounded in August of 1944 near Caen, France.

ed in action and they didn’t know how badly he had been hurt. Vince spent three months in hospital before returning home to Ottawa as a result of his injuries.

In Ottawa, he was part of a team that helped returned soldiers demobilize and return to a normal life.

While wondering what he would do for the rest of his life, a buddy of his told him the government was recruiting a trade commissioner. A year later he was the trade commissioner at the Canadian Embassy.

After Vince retired, he and his wife along with his four children moved across the river from Ottawa to Alymer in Quebec.

FREDERICK A’DELBERT

‘BERT’ SKINNER

My other great-grandfather was named Frederick A’delbert Skinner, but he went by Bert.

He served in the Royal Regiment of Canada and took part in the Battle of Normandy, arriving in France on July 27, 1944 –about six weeks after D-Day. He was a Lance Corporal.

In his last year of high school (1942), Bert and some buddies decided to enroll in the Royal Canadian Air Force after graduation.

He grew up in London, Ontario, and went to London South Collegiate Institute (now called South Secondary School.)

The idea to join the air force was influenced by his older brother Jack who was already in the air force. Bert trained in Manning Depot in Toronto and was later sent to Dafoe, Saskatchewan for further training from February to July 1943.

At age 19, Bert applied for discharge from the air force to join the C.A.S.F. (Canadian Army). During his time with the army, he moved around to a number of postings including Brantford, Ontario, and Toronto.

In early 1944, Bert’s son Richard Wayne Skinner was born in Springdale, Newfoundland. Bert had leave for the birth, but the family quickly moved back to his home of London, Ontario.

A couple of months later Bert returned to his military service on June 14, 1944, a week after D-Day.

He then set off for the United Kingdom, then France to join the Algonquin Regiment. On July 27, 1944, he reported to the 1st Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Canada and was later put into action.

Bert fought in a total of 17 battles during

written by David Fuller: Former Malvern C.I. students Sgt. Morris Murray, RCAF; Corporal Cameron Leander Jones, of the 7th Canadian Reconnaissance Regiment, 17th Duke of York’s Royal Canadian Hussars; and Corporal Howard P. Kidd, of the Highland Light Infantry, fought on D-Day.

Murray was the navigator in a Halifax bomber sent to destroy artillery emplacements on the invasion beach near Mont Fleury.

He lived at 90 Kingswood Rd., graduated from Malvern in 1933 and worked at the Inglis plant as an accountant. Although he had already volunteered for the air force in the summer of 1942, Murray married his girl Fern Hillier just before sailing for England. He was part of a massive air assault across the English Channel from his home airbase in Yorkshire on June 5, 1944 - the night before D-Day.

With next to no resistance from the German Luftwaffe (air force), only two aircraft were lost that night – Murray’s was one of them. Halifax “MP-W” was hit by flak and crashed inland between the villages Greysur-Mer and Vers-sur-Mer.

his time in France. He was shot and killed on Aug. 19, 1944, in the battle of Foret de la Londe which took place a little south of Rouen, France.

He was buried 10 days later on Aug. 29, 1944, at the Bretteville-sur-Laize War Cemetery just south of Caen, France.

Bert is special in my family. Even though I didn’t know him, my dad didn’t know him and my grandpa (my dad’s, dad) barely knew him, he is someone who is talked about at family gatherings and especially remembered and talked about during this time of year. He also has the same birthday as me.

I gathered this information from my Uncle (Dave Skinner), who went on a trip to England back in 2011 to find out the history of the Skinner family.

When he found the information on Bert’s life, he also found old photos of him when he was a kid, war medals, badges and documents. My Uncle Dave gathered all this information and wrote a book on Bert Skinner’s life when he returned to Ottawa (where he lives).

I believe the 80th anniversary of D-Day should be remembered at least every year if not every five years.

After I read the book on Bert Skinner I was interested and fascinated by what people had to live with at the time; it felt like I was reading a movie script.

Who knows what the world would look like today if the Allied forces didn’t defeat Nazi Germany and their allies during the Second World War?

We as humans need to be thankful for the people who risked their lives to defend our country.

Malvern Collegiate grads remembered

As I’m a Malvern Collegiate student, (doing a co-op at Beach Metro Community News) I was also interested to learn more about former Malvern grads who had fought on D-Day.

Since the 80th anniversary of D-Day is next week, now is a good time to remember them.

The information below on Malvern Collegiate graduates who fought on D-Day and in the Battle of Normandy appeared in a previous Beach Metro Community News article

Jones was onboard a ship on the English Channel, approaching the Normandy coast. His older brother Richard was in the RCAF and their younger brother Ross was with the army. Brothers Allan and David and their sister Merle were still at home at 164 Lawlor Ave.

Jones attended St. John’s school and matriculated from Malvern Collegiate in 1940. Within the year of coming over to England, Jones was assigned to the 7th Canadian Reconnaissance Regiment slated to take part in the landings on June 5, the original date for the invasion. After a weather delay, General Dwight Eisenhower gave the go-ahead for June 6 and Jones was among the second wave to reach the beaches that day.

As the Allied armies fought their way inland in what became known as the difficult Battle of Normandy, Jones was killed on July 9 not far from the airfield at Carpiquet, which had been captured in a fierce battle just four days earlier.

Kidd was a Malvern graduate from the year 1922. He was among the first soldiers to go ashore on D-Day and also survived the landing. Kidd was killed on July 8 in action.

The final resting place for Murray, Jones and Kidd is the Beny-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery in France. Jones is buried just nine rows away from Murray.

The grave marker of Corporal Cameron Jones at the Beny-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery in France. A Malvern Collegiate grad, Jones is buried nine rows away from another Malvern student -- Sgt. Morris Murray. Also buried at Beny-sur-Mer is former Malvern student Corporal Howard P. Kidd.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Members of the Neil McNeil Catholic High school track and field team celebrate winning the Overall Boy’s title, the Novice Boys title; the Junior Boys title; and the Senior Boys title at the Toronto District Catholic (Colleges) Athletic Association

track and field championship at Centennial Stadium in Etobicoke recently.

Neil McNeil celebrates track and field titles at pair of meets, sends 23 athletes to OFSAA finals

By Jack Skinner

THE NEIL McNeil Catholic High school track and field team won its fourth straight Overall Boy’s title at the Toronto District Catholic (Colleges) Athletic Association (TDCAA) track and field championships at Centennial Stadium in Etobicoke earlier this month.

The meet, which took place on Monday, May 13, and Tuesday, May 14, saw 1,250 athletes compete.

Along with winning the Overall Boy’s Title, the athletes from Neil McNeil also swept the divisional age group championships at this week’s meet.

Neil McNeil had three double-gold medal winners at the meet.

Liam Carvalho won gold in the 400-metre and 800m races in the Novice Boys division; Cecil Jenkins won gold in the 800m and 1500m races in the Junior Boys division; and Stephen Elias won gold in shotput and discus in the Senior Boys division.

With their success at the TDCAA meet, Neil McNeil qualified 51 athletes to take part in the Metro Track and Field Championships that were held on May 23 and 24 at Birchmount Stadium.

At the Metro meet, Neil McNeil continued its success by winning its the Overall Boys Title and two age division titles.

The overall title was the third in a row at the Metro Championships for the Neil McNeil team.

The Novice boys and Senior boys also won their division titles at the Metro meet.

Neil McNeil athletes won five gold medals, seven silvers and five bronze at the Metro Championships.

The gold medal winners were Aidan Troxler in Novice discuss; Liam Carvalho in Novice 400m; Tiago Keilman in Novice hurdles; Reid Grant in Novice shot put; and Xavier Gordon in Senior 800m.

With their success at the Metro meet, Neil McNeil qualified 23 athletes to take part in the upcoming Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) Track and Field Championships which are slated to take place from June 6 to 8 in London.

Beaches Sandbox to host Speakeasy/Jazz Night

THE BEACHES Sandbox will host a Speakeasy/Jazz Night on Saturday, June 8.

Singer and entertainer Shakura S’Aida will host the event at the Beaches Sandbox, 2181 Queen St. E. Doors will open at 7:30 p.m. with the show starting at 8 p.m.

The event is licenced for the serving of alcohol and is for those 19 and older.

Performing will be JUNO award-winning jazz performer Dave Young and JUNO-nominated saxophonist Alison Young.

An Order of Canada recipient, Dave Young is a bassist, composer, arranger, and educator with a career spanning more than five

decades. Young has made significant contributions to the Canadian and international music scene in classical music, collaborating with renowned musicians such as Lenny Breau, and Cedar Walton, also working alongside Oscar Peterson.

Alison Young is a JUNO-nominated and Maple Blues Award-winning composer and saxophonist. She leads her ensemble and has an active presence in the Toronto music community, and has appeared in over 50 recordings and has toured internationally.

For more info and to buy tickets, please go to www.beachessandbox.com

Danforth East Community Yard Sale on June 8

THE DANFORTH East Community Association (DECA) hosts its 10th annual Community Yard Sale on Saturday, June 8.

It will take place between Greenwood Avenue and Main Street and from Cosburn Avenue to the train tracks south of Danforth Avenue. Those who don’t have access to a lawn

and live in the applicable area can register for the multi-seller sale happening at Kimbourne Park United Church, 200 Wolverleigh Blvd., on June 8.

For more information on the DECA annual yard sale and on how to participate please visit https://deca.to/yardsale

(TDCAA)

Beaches-East York

Thursday, May 30 at 7:00 p.m.

Ask Me Anything – Live Online

Join me on Facebook, Youtube, and Instagram live. Participate in the chat and bring attention to the issues that are important to you. Follow @ beynate to find out more.

Wednesday, June 5 - Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

A Bullet Pulling Thread – Film Screening & Town Hall

Beach United Church

Join us for a thought-provoking film screening and a live recording of Nate’s Uncommons podcast at our free movie night. Visit beynate.ca for free tickets. Registration required.

Wednesday, June 12 - Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Live podcast & Q&A with Dr. Jane Philpott

Join us for a free live recording of the Uncommons podcast with Dr. Jane Philpott to discuss her new book Health for All: A Doctor’s Prescription for a Healthier Canada. Get your free tickets at beynate.ca You can check out past episodes at uncommons.ca

Members of the Malvern Collegiate girls lacrosse team celebrate their recent city championship win. The Malvern team will now be taking part in the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) Trillium Cup tournament this week in Brampton.

Malvern Collegiate girls win city lacrosse championship

THE MALVERN Collegiate girls Varsity lacrosse team recently won the Toronto championship.

The Malvern girls beat Humberside in the semifinals of the Toronto District Secondary School Athletic Association playoffs and then went on to beat East York Collegiate to take the city crown. With the win, the Malvern girls qualified for the Ontario Federation of

School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) Trillium Cup lacrosse tournament which will be taking place in Brampton this week.

Members of the Malvern girls lacrosse team are: Georgia Ruscitti, Tea Lavalee, Morgan Lille, Jamie Sanford, Nicole Barsanti, Kenadie Gemus, Bridget Ferry, Sadie Gallagher, Leah Ridout, Grace Cook,

Ruby Wood, Sofia Traid, Ellie Porter, Claire Cooper, Camille Cummins, Ailish Grieve, Francesca Giner, Emily Ponter, Hannah Warrington, Win McEnroe, Catriona Rose, Paige Collins, Ines Walton, Sienna Marsh, Georgia Plaxton, Mackenzie Barton, Sara Welbourne, Sienna Srdoc-Walsh, Josephine Peterson and Olivia Dodge. Team coach is Carter Livingston.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

East End Vets at Main and Gerrard streets puts focus on modern, compassionate care

By Erin Horrocks-Pope

RESIDENTS ARE eagerly reserving their spots at East End Vets, an independent veterinary clinic with a modern approach to pet (and people) care, taking over the location of the former Main Street Vet Clinic at the corner of Main Street and Gerrard Street East.

Founded by Dr. Matt Spiegle and Dr. Lara Zahra, classmates from the 2008 veterinary medicine graduating class at Guelph University, East End Vets will be prioritizing the well-being of its human staff and clients.

“We want to be a different kind of vet,” said Spiegle. “We want to provide the kind of care that we want to receive as pet owners and create a work environment that we would want to work in as practitioners — kind of ‘uncorporate’ and homey.”

The practice’s Community Outreach Director and Socials Manager, Kristen Likopulos, designed the new clinic with a “simplistic West Coast/California vibe,” aligning with the feel of the Beach community.

The clinic features a beautiful terrazzo arch in the waiting room, exposed brick behind the reception, and light wood accents cut to resemble waves.

Despite parting ways professionally after graduation, Spiegle and Zahra maintained their friendship while working in various practices across the Greater Toronto Area.

Last year, they decided to partner and open their own practice, blending their experiences to create a clinic that provides pet care while supporting practitioners.

According to a January 2024 report from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, 30.5 per cent of veterinarians feel burnout, with 50 per cent of veterinary staff feeling the same. Twenty-nine percent of veterinary technicians said they would likely leave their practice in the next two years.

“We were both just at a point in our careers where we needed a change,” said Zahra, highlighting the industry’s burnout and plummeting mental health due to staff shortages, a growing number of animal patients, and the round-the-clock stress of the job.

Within months, Spiegle and Zahra found the perfect location at Main and Gerrard, a neighbourhood where Spiegle and Likopulos live with their children.

Likopulos, who in addition to being the practice’s Community Outreach Director and Socials Manager is also Spiegle’s wife, commented

pet care with

staff well-being. Join them, and shop

Zac

on the “incredibly symbiotic partnership” between Spiegle and Zahra. “They have different personalities, but the way they work together and share the same beliefs about pet care and a healthy workplace for staff, it’s something that people will feel when they come here.”

for a launch party on June 2. stocked fridge in the staff area, ergonomic lift tables for large pets, a staff locker room with a full shower, and solar tunnels for natural light.

Both veterinarians bring a wealth of experience to East End Vets. Spiegle, inspired by his veterinarian father, and Zahra, who has 16 years of experience in laparoscopic veterinary surgeries, are committed to providing less invasive, quicker-healing pet procedures.

Acknowledging the industry’s struggles, East End Vets is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of veterinary practitioners and supporting their staff daily.

“We’re hardline fostering an atmosphere for growth,” emphasized Spiegle.

This commitment is evident throughout the practice, which includes a fully

For their clients, East End Vets has created a safe and comfortable space for pets and owners. There are refreshments and snacks in the waiting room to make the visit more pleasant.

Recognizing that accessibility can be a challenge, East End Vets also provides telemedicine alternatives for consultations and virtual care, ensuring that all pet owners.

One of the standout features of East End Vets is their dedicated comfort room, specially designed for pet owners facing the heart-wrenching experience of saying goodbye to their companions. This room has comfortable seating and a private entrance and exit.

The design stems from Spiegle and Likopulos’s own

experience with a “traumatic and cold” euthanasia process for one of their dogs, inspiring them to create a more compassionate and supportive environment for others.

The entire clinic is also designed with Fear Free Practice guidelines in mind. This concept involves reducing stress and anxiety in pets, ultimately leading to a better experience for everyone involved, including pets, owners, and the veterinary team.

The waiting area is separated into sections for canine and feline clients to minimize stress, and there are different safe spaces throughout the building equipped with pheromone diffusers to create a calming atmosphere.

East End Vets prides itself on being a family-operated business and is excited to welcome pet owners to join their family.

The practice officially opened on May 27. A launch party is set for Sunday, June 2, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring face painting, pet portraits, drinks and snacks.

For more info, please visit https://eastendvets.ca or visit them (and their friendly little shop dogs Zac and Pickle) in person at 170 Main St.

PHOTO: ERIN HORROCKS-POPE

East End Vets, founded by Dr. Matt Spiegle (right), Dr. Lara Zahra (middle), and Kristen Likopulos (left), offers modern, compassionate

a focus on

dogs Pickle (left) and

(right)

Garage Sales

Computer Services

Computer

mote

& PICK-UP SERVICES AVAILABLE E-FILE PERSONAL & BUSINESS TAXES 416-699-6641 • tariqabstax@gmail.com BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

161 Main Street, Toronto M4E 2V9 Serving the Community for Over 40 years (22/25)

Beach Hill

Bookkeeping

Specializing in Small Business Bookkeeping

Over 20 years of experience Free 1 hour consultation www.beachhillbookkeeping.ca 416.262.8422 (9)

EXACT TAX SERVICES

TIM O’MEARA TAX ACCOUNTANT

416-691-7556

Personal • small Business

CorPorate • BaCk Filing (9) DSR Financial & Income Tax Services including bookkeeping CDN & Non resident Personal & Corporate Tax Deborah, CPA, 416-854-3333 Dsroth85@gmail.com (7)

Expert Bookkeeping, Small business specialists, Strong on QuickBooks, Simply Accounting, “cloud computing”. A la carte services. Affordable rates. Antonella 416-464-2766 (7r)

Household Services

REG’S APPLIANCE

416-691-6893 reglit@yahoo.com

•Fast friendly service for 40 years •CESA certified Repairs to fridges, stoves, washers, dryers, dishwashers (r)

APPLIANCE 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 (7)

DOWNSIZE HELPERS

Organize • Declutter • Move packing Age-in-place plan, • Donations Maxsold estate sales. Free consultation. Call Nancy 416-691-7281 DownsizeHelpers.com (12) Home Decor

2358 Kingston Rd. (w. of Midland) 416-698-9000 (r) General Services WAYNE’S

RUBBISH REMOVAL

JUNK

Music

THE

Rockin’

HELP

Tutoring

We remove squirrels in a humane way from attics, walls,

Head Start Tutors

647-496-2211 (22/25)

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 (23/25)

RILEYS’ WINDOW CLEANING

A family business since 1956 Window & Eaves Cleaning Gutter Filter Installation 416 421-5758 rileyswindowcleaning.com (r)

BEACHES LAWN MAINTENANCE

416 414 5883 info@blpm.ca (7r)

EXTREME CLEANING

I provide excellent cleaning services for residential homes and condos. Contact Martha @ Cell: 647-206-1415 (7..)

Marvelous Touch Cleaning

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Beaches Math & Science Tutoring

I am a graduate student at the University of Toronto available to tutor Math, Functions, Adv. Functions, Calculus, Science or Physics in person/virtually at $60/hr. Please contact beaches.math.tutoring@gmail.com for more info (7.r)

Garden & Tree

BEACH PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

-Lawn Cutting -Spring/Fall Property Clean-Ups -Hedge Trimming 416-414-5883 info@blpm.ca (7r)

Beach Lawn Care LAWN CUTTING SERVICES *STARTING AT $20 416-691-8503 beachlawncare2020@gmail.com (7r)

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)

GREENWOOD TREE COMPANY

6Another Local Arborist Tree Pruning & Trimming, Tree Removals, Arborist Reports, Stump Grinding, Tree Planting Free Tree Evaluations, Quotes & Permit Assistance Mike - 416 992 7963 mike@greenwoodtree.ca www.greenwoodtree.ca (17r)

AMELIA ROSE

GARDENING & DESIGN

Spring & Fall cleanup. Maintenance.

The Art Show Toronto set for Queensbury Ave. this weekend

ON JUNE 1 and 2, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., The Art Show Toronto returns with an event set for southwest Scarborough.

The Art Show Toronto will take place at 64A Queensbury Ave. and will be open for anyone to come see and buy local art. Refreshments and treats will also be available at the show.

Started by Peg Graham in the early 1980s in Riverdale, The Art Show Toronto exhibited mostly painters for its first two years but has since expanded to many other art forms.

Graham has studied art throughout the years, and the connections she made led to The Art Show Toronto then taking place in south-

FULLY INSURED, BEACH RESIDENT COMPLIMENTARY WINDOW CLEANING CALL SEAN FOR AN ESTIMATE 416-985-8639 newbrightpainting@gmail.com (11)

Local resident w/38 yrs. exp.

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PAINTING

All work guaranteed

Fully insured • Free estimate

Experienced Handyman Available 416-818-7692 warren_gamey@yahoo.com (8r)

PAINTING NOW

$300 Per Painter Per Day + Paint.

35 Years Experience

Price subject to change in July. Call Blake: 437 225 1699 TorontoBeachPainting@gmail.com (7)

Master’s Touch Painting

A Company You Can count on Quality Since 1981 Interior • Exterior Pantelis Cell: 416-543-8254 We Don’t cut corners, we cut lines. (11)

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.

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

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 (7r)

PLUMBER

CONTRACTOR Fully licensed & insured. Lic #T94 George: 416-278-7057 or Gabston Reno: 647-342-2872 (7r)

west Scarborough on Ridgemoor Avenue from 2007 to 2014..

During that period the show featured 16 local artists presenting their works.

The show is a non-profit that raises funds to support Maasai women in Tanzania through a secondary school. By 2014 proceeds from the show had sent 20 Maa-

Electricians

sai girls to school before RBC took over the support for the students, and to this day the education for those young girls continues.

The Art Show Toronto started back up again in 2022 after the COVID-19 pandemic, and features the works of a variety of artists working in paint, mixed media, ceramics, woodworking, cards, and coasters.

The proceeds from the show now go to the non-profit Indspire to help Indigenous youth. Those attending the show are also encouraged to bring donations of non-perishable food items for local food banks.

For more information on The Art Show Toronto, please contact Graham at 416-617-3535.

CEJA ELECTRIC

Roofing

An

heart of The Beaches www.laniganscontracting.ca 416-569-2181 (r)

ROOFING & SIDING? SOLUTION! Flat and Shingle Roofs Re-roofing, Repair Eavestrough, Soffit & Fascia Workmanship Guaranteed Gus: 416-910-8033 (7r)

TORONTO ROOFING INDUSTRIES LTD.

Local • Reliable • Professional Servicing the beach for 18 years. 416 694 0906 torontoroofingindustries.com (8r)

Beach Co Roofing Flat Roofing

647-309-8056 (7r)

K. R. ROOFING

All types of Roofing Eavestrough & Siding Over 40 years in the east end. Martin 416 579-6534 (7r)

ROOFING, REPAIRS

DUN-RITE

Shingles, Flats, Eavestroughs Fascia & Soffit Chimney tuck pointing 15% off for Seniors • All work guaranteed 647-857-5656 (8r)

CITYWIDE

ROOFING

416-690-1430 647-898-1440

the Beaches

Shingles

Flats

Trades

Indoor or outdoor: dry-wall, flooring, built-in, landscaping, interlocking, sheds, fences, decks, etc. at a reasonable price! Call Hamid at 647-300-2462 (7r) JDB MASONRY • Brick / Foundation • Concrete / Stone • Chimney & Parging Restoration & Build www.jdbuild.ca 416-738-2119 (8r)

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 (7..) Can Pro Mechanical

Heating cooling service & install Hvac ductwork Furnace, boiler, hydronics Large and small jobs 416 606 4719 (7r)