Volume 49 No. 11
BEACHMETRO.COM
August 25, 2020
Beach-based Concerns, frustrations Sandwich Sisters as start of school nears helping hostels By Amanda Gibb
By Amanda Gibb
FROM THE Beach to neighbourhoods across the Greater Toronto Area, Sandwich Sisters volunteers have prepared thousands of sandwiches for shelters since the end of March. “When the (COVID-19) pandemic hit, I thought, well, the shelters have to be hurting. I reached out to them and they said that they needed to close their kitchens down because of the pandemic,” said Beach resident Carolyn Quigley. Quigley said that she enlisted the help of her friends to make sandwiches every week to donate to the shelters. “We started off with eight of us making sandwiches in our homes over Zoom calls,” said Quigley. What started as a small act of community kindness has evolved to 14 “pods” across the city with more
than 280 volunteers donating more than 53,000 sandwiches plus other foods to multiple shelters. “Each day I was getting emails from everywhere. Toronto, Hamilton, North York, Leaside, Etobicoke, everywhere,” said Quigley. Quigley said that Lori Wells came up with the name Sandwich Sisters and has a number of other responsibilities within the group. “She has been keeping count of everything from sandwiches, juice boxes, snack bars, apples, and oranges. And she puts the pods together,” said Quigley. Each pod of volunteers has one pod leader that is in charge of making sure volunteers know what they’re doing, keeping a schedule, and reporting numbers back to Wells. “The pod leaders also supply food, funded by donations, to the Continued on Page 20
Leuty Lifeguard Station marks 100th anniversary By Alan Shackleton
THE LEUTY Lifeguard Station’s 100th anniversary was celebrated by a small group of Beach dignitaries late last month. The ceremony, which had to remain small due to COVID-19 restrictions, was held on the Boardwalk at the foot of Leuty Avenue in front of the plaque recognizing the building of the station in 1920. Those attending the July 21 event included Beach historian Gene Domagala, Beaches-East York MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, BeachesEast York Councillor Brad Bradford, former Beach Metro News general manager Sheila Blinoff, former area councillor Tom Jakobek, author Jean Cochrane, and Community Centre 55 executive director Debbie Visconti. A much larger community celebration to mark the 100th anniversary will be held next summer, said Bradford. “We’re going to have a big beach party in 2021 to celebrate the Leuty,” added Visconti. Bradford added that residents are invited to share their Leuty
stories, photos, paintings, videos or anything else related to the station over the next year to an online portal that has been set up in advance of next summer’s bigger celebration of the 100th anniversary. The portal can be accessed at https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/eULS1glr Though subdued and limited in numbers, Tuesday’s event saw a number of speeches including from former and present lifeguards. A group of lifeguards working out of the station this summer helped cut the ribbon to officially mark the 100th anniversary. Jakobek, who was a lifeguard at the Leuty station in the late 1970s, told the crowd he had many fond memories of working there including being on the tower and working the “rookie beach” at the foot of Hammersmith Avenue. “It was the best job,” he said, remembering he was paid $83.20 a week at the time. Jakobek added that as Toronto changes and the buildings and landmarks that were part of its past disappear, it’s important to remember and maintain the buildings that Continued on Page 5
THE PROVINCE’S plan to send students back to school has been constantly changing as parents, teachers, and officials raise their concerns. As of Friday, Aug. 21, the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) was planning to start school for students on Sept. 15, one week later than had earlier been planned. Start dates for students will also be staggered over Sept. 15, 16 and 17, according to the latest plan by the TDSB which was approved late in the day on Aug. 20. Other aspects of the TDSB’s plan will be the mandatory wearing of face masks for students in all grades to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus, smaller class sizes and physical distancing protocols. There will also be options for online learning. The TDSB will be dipping into its reserve funds to cover some of these additional costs, including the hiring of more teachers to help reduce class sizes. Conditions evolving Last week, Beach Metro News looked into the concerns of local trustees and parents as the new school year approaches. As the situation was constantly changing, the interviews in this article took place before the updated plan was introduced. “This whole experience has been akin to building a plane while flying it…The conditions are evolving,” said Toronto-Danforth TDSB trustee Jennifer Story. “At some point parents and teachers are going to have to make a decision. Students are going to have to make a decision about going back to school without having every question answered.” Michelle Aarts, the TDSB trustee for Beaches East-York, said that the constantly changing situation has “thrown the boards for a loop.” She said that the direction given on July 30 by the province for elementary students to go back full time in regular class sizes was unexpected and not what they had planned for. “I was shocked, it’s a mix of frustration and shock. The frustration comes from the fact the ministry has made our staff do phenomenal amounts of work, and then pull the rug out from under them multiple
PHOTO/ALAN SHACKLETON
Parent Jennifer Sheridan, left, speaks at a press conference outside Birch Cliff Public School last Wednesday about the province’s back-to-school plans. The press conference was also attended by Ontario NDP leader Andrea Horwath, right, and Scarborough Southwest MPP Dolly Begum, centre. times,” said Aarts. Angela Kennedy, the Toronto Catholic District School Board trustee for Beaches East-York said that her board’s plan for the return to school is similar in a number of ways to the TDSB’s plan. “Things are changing on an hourly basis practically and I see that our senior staff are working day and night. The ministry is working hard, Public Health is working hard. Everyone is working hard to do the right thing,” said Kennedy. There are many unknown components to the province’s plan which have raised concerns, including what transportation will look like, how recesses and lunch breaks will be planned, along with entries and exits into school. Story’s thoughts on the plans highlight the need for funding to have the space to allow for social distancing and to hire more staff. More resources needed “I’m disappointed that the provincial government hasn’t put more resources into supplementary teachers and into securing additional spaces so that we can minimize class sizes and spread kids in a class out,” said Story. Story also described the current funding for infrastructure to enhance health and safety in schools as “woefully inadequate.” “Even if we were to get a massive and immediate influx of cash, it would take time to execute. There’s no way all that work could be done for September,” she said. Aarts said that instead of run-
ning a balanced budget this year, the board will be borrowing against reserves for approximately $30 million, even if more funding is announced. “Right now those reserves are paying for PPE for both staff and students, extra caretakers, cleaning supplies, and as much additional staff as we can hire,” said Aarts. She also cited the lack of funding for infrastructure and the need for better ventilation in schools. Health advice listened to Kennedy said she hopes that class sizes in her board will be reduced to 15, and that her board is spending money from their reserves on hiring more staff. “At this point in time, I think a full return is essential for elementary students. I think it’s important for the mental health of the parents and the students,” she said. Kennedy, who has been a nurse at Michael Garron Hospital for more than 50 years, thinks the health and safety advice from Toronto Public Health and the province has been good so far. “I’m really glad to see our politicians that are listening to the scientists and the doctors. It seems like the media is really respecting the epidemiologist advice and the infection control specialists…I feel quite confident in the advice that we’ve been given,” she said. Since these interviews have taken place, Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce announced $500 million in funding to enhance physical distancing and improve Continued on Page 21
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BEACH METRO NEWS
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Protests held in Ivan Forrest Gardens after police are called on Black child A NUMBER of gatherings have been held in Ivan Forrest Gardens defending children’s right to play after someone called 911 on a Black child who was playing with a toy gun in the park earlier this month. Police responded to the 911 call in force as it came in as a person with a gun in the park near Queen Street East and Glen Manor Drive. When officers arrived they quickly realized that in fact it was only a group of children playing with toy Nerf guns. It is not known who made the 911 call on the afternoon of Aug. 11. At a gathering held on Aug. 14, dozens of residents showed up at the park to protest against racism and to support children being able to play without fear or discrimination. The Aug. 14 gathering was organized by local resident Sahvana Downes. On the afternoon of Saturday, Aug. 22, a dance rally was held at Ivan Forrest Gardens hosted by #Beachers for Black Lives. The Love in the Park: Justice for Black Children Dance Rally was held to remind residents that the use of this public park is everyone’s right. “This was a racist crime that was directed towards an 11 year old boy in our very neighbourhood,” said the Facebook post about the dance rally. “Enough is enough! We will not tolerate racism towards our Black
PHOTO: SUSAN LEGGE
Sahvana Downes, left, and Beaches-East York MPP Rima Berns-McGown hold a sign during a gathering at Ivan Forrest Gardens park protesting racism and defending the rights of all children to play safely and free from discrimination on Aug. 14. The sign reads: ‘All kids love toys like foam pellet guns. Let’s make sure Black boys are safe having fun.’ Children in this community... “Together we will dance as a community to demand safety, justice for our Black Children, against anti-Black racism and to celebrate Black Joy and Black music.” The month of August started with a Black Lives Matter anti-racism march in the Beach. Several hundred residents took part in the march on the afternoon of Aug. 1. It was organized by local residents Abi Braybrook and Amany Abubaker. In an interview with Beach Metro News in front of the Leuty Lifeguard Station prior to the start of the march, they said they were very pleased by the large turnout. “We’re really happy that so many people came out,” said Abi. “It’s easy to do protests online, but actually coming out and taking part in this really makes a difference.” The march began at the
Leuty Lifeguard Station and then headed west along the Boardwalk to Woodbine Avenue and up to Queen Street East where it then went east to its conclusion at the R. C. Harris Water Filtration Plant. “Hopefully people will see us out here and do some research and learn more about the racism that exists today,” said Abi. Both Abi and Amany grew up in the Beach and have witnessed racism in a number of forms. Amany said that it was important that residents in what is an affluent and powerful community in the Beach are standing up and showing their support for Black Lives Matter and antiracism campaigns. “We’re so happy with the support,” she said. “The movement is getting bigger in our own community.” She said that perhaps before there were people who
thought that racism did not impact them personally, so they chose to believe it did not exist. “They were turning a blind eye to it, but people are noticing much more what is going on around the whole city and affecting a larger group of people than they thought,” said Amany. Among those taking part in the Aug. 1 march was Beaches-East York MPP Rima Berns-McGown. She said that being locally organized, the march was a very grassroots event with participation coming directly from area residents. “People want to learn more and be supportive,” she told Beach Metro News at Saturday’s march. “It’s wonderful how people are turning out and asking ‘What do I need to do to help?’” She said that the global outrage sparked by the death of George Floyd in the United States in May after a police officer held his knee on his neck for close to eight minutes has highlighted issues of systemic racism around the world. Berns-McGown said that the incident has made people everywhere take a hard look at their countries and communities when it comes to racism and what they can to do end it. “This is a moment of sheer possibility. We need to talk about these issues that are so crucial and to talk about the society that we want,” she said.
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Meeting on development plan for Gerrard Street site slated THE DEVELOPER of a project at 2165 Gerrard St. E. that will add a number of residential units to what was the site of a single-family home will be holding a community meeting on the plan in early September. P & R Developments will hold the virtual meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 4:30 p.m. Area residents are invited to participate and share their comments for what is a revised plan for the site. Residents who wish to take part in the virtual meeting are asked to send an email to admin@pandrdevelopments. com “Even though our project no longer requires variances we would like your feedback in the interest of improving the project as part of our efforts to ensure it fits with the neighbourhood,” said a letter from the developer sent to neighbours of the site which was also shared with Beach Metro News. Word of plans for 2165 Gerrard St. E., which is on
the south side of Gerrard between Norwood Road and Main Street, were first made public earlier this year. At the time, the plan proposed three townhouses, each with a pair of two-bedroom apartments and twobedroom laneway suite at the rear. There would have been nine residential units in total as part of the plan. Each unit was proposed to be more than 1,000 square feet in size. Concerns raised by residents back in late January included lack of dedicated parking spaces for the proposed units and the safety of a large red oak tree on the property. In its letter inviting residents to the Sept. 9 meeting, P & R Developments said that the plan has been altered to take in some of the earlier community concerns. “We have since withdrawn our earlier proposal and have significantly improved the design of our proposed development,” the letter
said. The plan now calls for two fourplexes, each with four two-bedroom apartments and two separate laneway houses with three bedrooms at the rear of the lot. Also, P & R Developments’ letter said that their “foundation plan will protect” the oak tree. For more info on the plan, go to www.pandrdevelopments.com/2019/09/15/ healthy-house-on-gerrard Community Food Centre set for East York THE SOUTH Riverdale Community Health Centre plans to open its Harmony Hall Community Food Centre in East York early this September. Located at 2 Gower St., the centre will be launched at a special ceremony set for 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 1. Among thsoe attending the launch celebration will be Beaches-East York MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith and Toronto-Danforth MP Julie Dabrusin.
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Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Obituary
Iola Baumgartner remembered as positive and generous By Alan Shackleton
PHOTO: SUBMITTED
Iola Baumgartner is being remembered for her strength, optimism and determination.
LONGTIME LOCAL resident and active community member Iola Baumgartner is being remembered for her strength, optimism and determination. Baumgartner died peacefully at the age of 79 on Aug. 6 at Princess Margaret Hospital with her husband of 55 years, Norbert, and her daughter Nikki by her side. “It’s hard to sum up Iola in a few words,” said friend Jane Anderson in an interview with Beach Metro News this week. “For me, she was a wonderful friend. Warm and kind and thoughtful.” Anderson added that everyone who knew Baumgartner felt that way about her. “She was liked and loved by so many people because she made an effort to connect with people. But she made the connections effortlessly. She liked people and liked to help them.” The words “positive and generous” always come up in describing Baumgartner’s personality, said Anderson who first came to
know Baumgartner through playing squash at the Balmy Beach Club. She said many of Baumgartner’s friends were inspired by her outlook on life, her determination and her courage. “Other friends have said one of their favourite memories of her was watching Iola cross the finish line at the Toronto Marathon at age 60. That was a testament to her spirit and determination and was an inspiration to others,” said Anderson. “She was very special and all of us are missing her.” Those sentiments are shared by her extended family and many friends in Canada, England, Europe and the United States, said her obituary notice posted in the Toronto Star. The text of the obituary is below: “Iola was born in Trevor, Wales on December 12th, 1940, youngest of three children. After the war, her family moved back to England and she was raised and schooled in Birmingham. “In 1964, she travelled
to Canada with friends by steamer, arriving in Montreal. After a brief stay in Montreal she made the journey to Vancouver by CP Rail. Soon after she met the love of her life, Norbert. They spent a few years in Vancouver where their daughter, Nikki, was born, and then moved to Ontario. “Iola held many different positions in her working life, SRA (IBM), Shulton and Revlon working in the EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) field. Near the end of her career, she chose to do consulting work, allowing her to enjoy more travel. Iola had a passion for travel, activities, friendships and family. “Iola and Norbert enjoyed many adventures together traveling by plane, train, boat, car and with some of their most memorable trips together by canoe. “Iola became an active member in the Balmy Beach Club competing in the paddling section, joining the ladies squash section at the outset and competing in the Toronto Squash Ladies league. Later she added run-
ning to her sports and completed the Toronto Marathon and many half marathons. “Iola loved living in the Beaches, where over 45 years, she developed many long lasting friendships. She was also a community advocate always willing to help out. “She volunteered for organizations such as Achilles and Wellspring as well as canvassing for Cancer support. “Iola held her family close, spending as much time as she could with her daughter and her family out West. “Making as many as four visits a year, the joke was that a visit could not end until the date of the next was set. “Her grandsons were her treasures and she was proud to be their Gramma. With the exception of a couple of times, due to treatments, Gramma was there for every one of her grandsons’ birthdays in May and October. “Iola was known for her giving nature, strength of character, optimism and energy. Iola was quick to offer a helpful hand and thoughtful word. “Iola was diagnosed and received treatment in 2007 for ovarian cancer and was fortunate to not have a reoccurrence until 2014. Unfortunately, after this, the cancer recurred more frequently. Iola balanced her fight with quality of life and she did so with great strength, optimism and determination. In the face of adversity, she loved life! “Using words from one of her close friends, “Iola, throughout her fight has been a beacon of strength, kindness and encouragement for all who have also battled life’s challenges’. “Following Iola’s wishes, there will not be a service and there will be a commemorative tree planted in her honour. We are requesting the tree to be planted in the Beaches area or Ashbridges Bay. We welcome all to visit the tree and pause to reflect and remember Iola. “We would like to thank the staff at Princess Margaret Hospital for the wonderful care given to Iola.” Baumgartner is survived by her husband Norbert of 55 years, her daughter Nikki (Andy) and grandchildren Riley and David. Donations in memory of Iola Baumgartner can be made to the Princess Margaret Hospital’s PHM Gynecology Unit or the Palliative Care Unit. Condolences and memories shared at www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/ toronto-on/iola-baumgartner-9301374
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Thousands of lives saved by those working at Leuty Lifeguard Station Continued from Page 1 hold special places in the hearts of the community. “Of all our landmarks, nothing has been as much photographed and loved as this building,” he said. The word iconic was used a lot to describe the Leuty Lifeguard Station at Tuesday’s ceremony. It does indeed hold a special place in the community, but residents had to fight to save it in the 1990s as it was on the verge of being torn down due to its poor condition and precarious location. Domagala pointed out that it has been moved four times and raised up higher since it was first built to protect it from flooding, erosion and other threats. The Save Our Station (S.O.S.) campaign was quickly started by the community to save the station from demolition in the 1990s, and it raised a huge amount of money and public attention for the cause. Domagala brought an S.O.S. coffee cup, with was among the items sold to raise funds to save the station during the campaign, to Tuesday’s ceremony. The Leuty station was designated as a protected structure under the Ontario Heritage Act in 1993. “This is an icon and a part of the history of our neighbourhood,” Domagala said. “We started the movement to save the station, and all kinds of people got involved…I hope it stays around for another 100 years.” The Leuty Lifeguard Station was one of three similar stations built by the Toronto Harbour Commission in 1920. The others, which have been torn down, were at the Humber River (Sunnyside) and the Western Channel. A similar lifeguard station was later built at Cherry Beach, and that is also still standing. The Leuty station was originally called the Scarborough Beach Station, but it
PHOTOS: ALAN SHACKLETON
Above, Beach historian Gene Domagala speaks at a small celebration to mark the 100th anniversary of the Leuty Lifeguard Station that was held late last month. Below, lifeguards working at the station this summer help local dignitaries cut the ribbon to mark the 100th anniversary.
soon became known to locals and the rest of the city as the Leuty due to its location near the foot of Leuty Avenue. It is estimated that lifeguards working out the Leuty station have saved more than 6,000 people from drowning over the past 100 years. The plaque by the Boardwalk in front of the Leuty Life Station reads: “Lifeguards have been watching over Kew Beach
swimmers and boaters from the Leuty Lifeguard Station for over 100 years. The simple clapboard structure with its rooftop lookout tower was designed by the architecture firm of Chapman, Oxley & Bishop, which also designed the Princes’ Gates and Sunnyside Bathing Pavilion, among other famous Toronto structures. The beach was once crowded with buildings, vendors, and boats for hire. The threat of erosion
eventually forced the removal of most of the structures to stabilize the beachfront. The station is one of the few buildings from this era to remain. Starting in the 1990s; it began to fall into disrepair and the local community fundraised to save it from demolition. The station is still in active use and it is one of only two left on Toronto’s waterfront. Lifeguards based here are credited with saving over 6,000 lives.”
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BEACHMETRO.COM
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
In My Opinion
Remember and preserve buildings that make Beach unique Clyde Robinson Guest Column MY FIRST introduction to the Beach was in June of 1973. A school mate of mine asked me if I wanted to go to the beach. I said what beach, there’s no beach in Toronto? We skipped school and I remember for the first time seeing Lake Ontario in a different way. We drove south on Kippendavie Avenue through the canopy of trees, looking like a tunnel with the water at the end. Wow, this was cool! Now, 47 years later, I live around the corner and remember that moment. I often think of how fortunate I am, not only to be living in the Beach, but also Toronto and Canada, especially during these new times of ours. The chiming of Corpus Christi’s
Church bells in its 100th year anniversary are wonderful to hear during the pandemic and take me back to a simpler time. Did you know that Queen Street East in the Beach was once voted the Best Main Street in Ontario and won an award from TVO in 2002? After living in the Beach for 40 years now I always love being invited into the Beach along Queen Street (formerly Maple Avenue) from the west, and passing what I call our “twin towers”. The fire station on the north and the Henry Hogarth Residence, 1903 Queen St. E., on the south. The Henry Hogarth residence was built in 1893. It preceded the fire station. A few years before the fire station was built this area was a dairy farm. Smith’s Dairy Farm was located north of Queen Street to Kingston Road and from Woodbine Avenue
to Elmer Avenue. The property at 1903 Queen St. E. is now up for sale. It is partially protected by being listed with the Toronto Historical Preservation Services. Henry Benjamin Hogarth (1858-1940), the builder, was the eldest of at least eight children. Two of his sisters married Beach men. Mary Sophia Hogarth (1862– 1919) married builder William Williamson (for whom Williamson Road is named), and Emily Maud Hogarth (1874–1893) married Roland Caldwell Harris, of R. C. Harris Filtration Plant fame. Emily and her young child died in the early 1890s, not long after the marriage, and R.C.H. remarried and lived until 1945. Henry Hogarth died in the home on June 26, 1940. He lived there for close to 50 years. He is buried in St. John’s Norway Cemetery.
The former Henry Hogarth Residence has been in need of work for years. I hope the new owner will bring this house back to its original shape and glory. Time and thought went into this Bay and Gable designed style of home. For me it is homes like these that add so much character to our area and make the Beach. It is sad to think that some of these homes are usually replaced with what I call square boxes. Some people call this progress – not me. Now I don’t like every design of house, but homes like the Hogarth Residence to me, make areas such as ours unique. Around the corner from 1903 Queen St. E. the two beautiful homes at 40 and 42 Elmer Ave. will soon be demolished. In the near future they will be a vague memory. They were built in 1905 and are of
Queen Anne style having an identifiable character of a low rise, turreted, two-storey sloped roof appearance. The wrap around porches add a welcoming feel to the entrance. Not only residences, but retail stores have left us and are now memories from days gone by. To name a few are the Balmy Arms, Griffith’s, Nova Fish and Chips, Scratch Daniel’s, Nevada, Lido’s, Fitzgerald’s, Hobbit Town, Miracle’s, Surf Sailor with the wind surfing board projecting out from the store front, the original Gio’s and Whitlock’s where the minstrel used to swing by the tables playing his tunes. Cherish what you see now, it may not be there tomorrow because as Bob Dylan says: The Times They Are A Changin’. Please support our local businesses.
SERVING THE BEACH, BEACH HILL, BIRCH CLIFF, CLIFFSIDE, CRESCENT TOWN, EAST DANFORTH, GERRARD INDIA BAZAAR, LESLIEVILLE AND UPPER BEACH Beach Metro Community News, published by Ward 9 Community News Inc., is a non-profit, non-partisan community newspaper founded in 1972 and published 23 times a year. It is distributed free by volunteers in East Toronto and Southwest Scarborough and paid for by our advertisers.
2196 Gerrard St. E., Toronto, ON, M4E 2C7 PHONE: 416-698-1164 FAX: 416-698-1253 beachmetro.com PUBLISHER Susan Legge (ext. 24) susan@beachmetro.com EDITOR Alan Shackleton (ext. 23) alan@beachmetro.com REPORTER Ali Raza ali@beachmetro.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Mark Ireland (ext. 26) mark@beachmetro.com PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Melinda Drake (ext. 27) melinda@beachmetro.com ACCOUNTS MANAGER Hope Armstrong (ext. 21) hope@beachmetro.com
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Letters to the Editor
Readers share differing views on Destination Danforth Re: ‘Destination Danforth work to start soon,’ Beach Metro News, July 14. I was so pleased to read Ali Raza’s article on the beginning of the installation of the Destination Danforth project. I am confident that this will be a win-win for everyone – businesses, residents, pedestrians, people who travel by bicycle, and yes, even drivers. Other such installations have been shown to improve safety for everyone. Also, an Ekos poll from earlier this year found that 79 per cent of Toronto residents were in favour of bike lanes. The additional focus on economic recovery for the Danforth as part of this project makes it particularly unique. I can hardly wait to visit the various parts of the Danforth by bike to support our local
businesses and be participate in the success of Destination Danforth! Mary Ann Neary
Bike lanes, lack of parking hurt Danforth merchants I visited the Danforth bike lane installation this afternoon (in late July). There was the usual traffic jam up, including unhappy firefighters whose truck was stuck right in the middle. But the worst impacts have been on the local merchants who I talked to. First the COVID-19 pandemic, and now the City of Toronto who they pay taxes to clobbers them with the removal of customer parking and loading space.
One merchant I met is seriously thinking of closing. Where are the BIAs in all of this? They are not sticking up for their members very well. Michael Ufford
Pleased to see protected bike lanes along Danforth Avenue Re: ‘Toronto police put focus on cycling safety this week,’ Beach Metro News online, July 15. We’re glad to see the police promoting safe road use amongst both drivers and cyclists. But as local doctors, we know that safe streets don’t just come from enforcing rules and laws, they need to be built.
That’s why we’re so pleased to see the City of Toronto is building protected bike lanes as part of its Complete Streets project on Danforth Avenue. The bike lanes will make Danforth safer for everyone, including cyclists and people who drive a car. The lanes are also an important part of Toronto’s COVID-19 strategy, since being on a bicycle helps you to keep two metres from others. We look forward to seeing lots of folks safely exercising, shopping and enjoying family-time when the Danforth Avenue bike lanes and the Destination Danforth patios are open. Dr. Eileen Cheung Dr. Marco Lo
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Black Lives Here
Tex Thomas runs Pro League Sports in community he loves Mimi Liliefeldt mimi@missfit.ca
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f you’ve lived in the Beach for any length of time, then you know Tex Thomas, owner of Pro League Sports. Even if you don’t know his name, you recognize him from his reliable presence on Queen Street. Tex has a calm demeanor and easy smile; he’s a father of three kids, a sports fan and athlete at heart. What you might not know about him is that he was born in St. Vincent and is one of five children that his mother and aunts worked hard to bring to Canada. “At 11 years old, leaving was hard”, Tex told me, “I wasn’t happy about it, I didn’t want to leave St. Vincent and my friends. The day my brother and I were leaving to fly to Canada, my aunt had to come get us at the beach.” Tex grew up in Regent Park where he joined the Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada. “My mom didn’t have the finances to put me in different things, so I feel like the Club exposed me to a lot of great activities and kept me grounded”. In high school Tex played every sport, but focused on his true talent, football. After high school he finished a three-year junior football program in Ottawa, then enrolled at York University where he was invited to rookie camp. Unfortunately, the school system missed the fact that he was two credits short. A realization came upon him, “I’m done” he said. “I think I gave up because I was frustrated with the whole process, the motivation for me wasn’t there anymore”. Life experience and football has taught Tex how to pivot, and so he does. “I’ve always collected sports cards and memorabilia, so I started doing card shows throughout the city.” Eventually the store front on Queen came open and in 1991 he fulfilled his dream of owning a business. He has seen the ups and downs of ownership, the great successes of our beloved sports teams to the economic threat of a global
PHOTO: MIMI LILIEFELDT
Tex Thomas has owned Pro League Sports on Queen Street East in the Beach for nearly 20 years. pandemic. But he opened his business in a neighbourhood he loves and respects, and it is clear from his longevity that the feeling is mutual. That is not to say he has never experienced any negativity. “I’ve had things happen to me, I’m not immune to it. You try not to remember these things, but I had a customer that came into the store who spat at me and called me the “N” word. Someone nearby called the police,” Tex told me. He was keen to let me know it was many years ago. As he told me other stories, his understanding of our Black experience became more evident. “I was driving with my exwife and an officer came to her passenger side window to ask her if she’s OK.” Another time, he was approached by officers on either side of his car, one with his hand on his gun. Feeling uneasy he asked, “was I speeding”? The officer said, “If you were it wasn’t by much.” When he asked why he was pulled over he was told his car fit the description of someone they were looking for. Looking back, he says “it was scary, when I drove off I was really upset.” I suppose you could say this could happen to anyone, but it made me wonder, how
many white people have had this type of encounter? Even through these various discriminations, Tex gives people the benefit of the doubt. He knows these experiences felt wrong and unfair but he also believes the officers really were looking for someone, just not him. He is bolstered by the good friends he’s made in this community that have stood by him, and defended him against the occasional bigot. Recently, a friend and customer came to the store after George Floyd and the subsequent uprising hit the media. This friend came to ask how he was doing and apologised to Tex for all the racism Black people have had to endure. It was an act of love and solidarity. “It made me feel really good,” he said. “Racism is not something you’re born with. I tell my kids, ‘show people who you are, be solid in that, your skin colour is fine.’” When I asked if he was hopeful for the future and an end to racism, he said “Hopeful is a strong word, I just hope we can get better.” This is when I feel I have fully understood Tex. He is solid in who he is, but as every sport he’s ever played has taught him, he knows we all have a part in how this turns out.
BEACH METRO NEWS
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BEACH METRO NEWS
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Community Calendar
proudly presented by Beaches-East During COVID-19, many community events have been cancelled or postponed. Please visit the groups’ websites or connect with organizers to receive the latest information. As events start up again, either virtually or in-person, don’t forget to send your info to calendar@beachmetro.com.
SEPT. 8: Community Centre 55 AGM at 97 Main St., 7 p.m. The Annual General Meeting of the members of Community Centre 55 will be held 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, 2019; to receive our Program report; and to fill three vacancies on the Board of Management. For additional information, please contact Debbie Visconti, Executive Director, Community Centre 55 at 416691-1113 ext. 225. Please note we are having a pre AGM barbecue at 6 p.m. sharp and we would love to have you there.
York Councillor Brad Bradford Sunday, Sept. 13 from 2- 7 p.m. Info: 416-778-0923, gerrardartspace@gmail.com, www.gerrardartspace.com GALLERY 888 - big price reductions on artwork by Beach artists & Liz Russ (mostly). Open by chance and by appointment c/o studio888art@gmail.com. BEACHES MENTAL WELLNESS GROUP. Join us most days for a free video support group run through ZOOM. Sign up and get details at https:// www.meetup.com/Mental-Wellness-Peer-to-PeerSupport-Groups/. Info: www.mentalwellness.help DANFORTH MENTAL WELLNESS GROUP. Join us most days for a free video support group run through ZOOM. Sign up and get details at https:// www.meetup.com/Mental-Wellness-Peer-to-PeerSupport-Groups/. Info: www.mentalwellness.help
SEPT. 13: The Leslieville Flea is back in person this summer at Ashbridge Estate, 1444 Queen St. E., plus a virtual market @leslievilleflea July 13- July 18. Shop from a curated selection of handcrafted, vintage and artisanal items. Stroll 3 acres of Ashbridges Estates grounds, reconnect with your favourite vendors and check out what’s new. Note: To ensure the health and safety of visitors and vendors, we will be implementing physical distancing measures as well as the use of masks and sanitizer. Info: www.leslievilleflea.com
GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS. If you or a family member are struggling with gambling, Gamblers Anonymous is there to HELP. Call: 1(855) 222-5542 or visit www.gatoronto.ca
SEPT. 19: SoundWave Online: Sarah Beatty in a Livestream concert 7 p.m. online. Quirky and captivating, songwriter and scientist Sarah Beatty’s latest album, Bandit Queen, peaked at #1 on Canada’s Roots charts. Register on Eventbrite to receive livestream link, $10 donation suggested.
AL-ANON BEACH R&R GROUP meets Tuesdays at St. Aidan’s Church, Queen St. E. at Silver Birch Ave., 7:30 p.m. (newcomers’ meeting 7 p.m.). Use side door in middle of the building. No fees or dues.
SEPT. 29: Annual General Meeting of Ward 9 Community News Inc, publisher of Beach Metro Community News, to be held virtually at 7 p.m. This is a membersonly meeting. Memberships ($2) are available at the newspaper office, 2196 Gerrard St. E., until Sept. 22. For more information, see the story in our Aug. 25 edition. OCT. 3: Jazz & Reflection Online: Steve Hunter, piano. Theme: Reflection for Renewal. Music to include Duke Ellington, Joplin, and other 60’s music interpreted with a jazz flavour. A native of Los Angeles, Steve studied classical piano in Santa Monica before moving to Toronto in 1973 to further his studies in music and arranging. Some of the shows Steve has conducted and played on include Cats, The Phantom of the Opera (with Colm Wilkinson), Joseph (with Donny Osmond), Forever Plaid, Jane Eyre, Tommy, Blood Brothers (with David Cassidy), Rent, The Lion King, Billy Elliot, and Wicked. Register on Eventbrite to receive the video link, a $10 donation suggested. BEACH INTERFAITH OUTREACH LUNCHES for Adults. September 15 - 11 a.m. at Beach United Church. The form of the lunch will depend on the virus situation at the time. Fall schedule to be determined. Info: 416-691-6869 DROP-IN LUNCHES at Royal Canadian Legion, 1577 Kingston Rd., Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: www.scarboroughfoodsecurityinitiative.com GRANT-FULL FOOD & FELLOWSHIP. In view of COVID-19, Grant-full Food & Fellowship Soup Kitchen at 2029 Gerrard St. East is open on Wednesdays from 2:00 to 6:00 pm until further notice. Anyone in need of free groceries is welcome. Please line up, respect social distancing and wait until you are invited in to be served. Info: 416-690-5169
AL- ANON at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St., Wednesdays 7:15 p.m. Alateen members are welcome to attend. Info: 416-691-1113
BEACH UNITED CHURCH, 140 Wineva Ave. •Join us online for Sunday sessions via Zoom. Theme: Sanctuary – “Sanctuaries are not escape houses as much as fueling stations.” Sunday Sept.13, 10.30 a.m. Focus: Enough. Sunday Sept. 27, 10:30 a.m, Focus: Refuge. Hosts: Karen Dale & Steven Webb, engaging from the sanctuary of Beach UC. Find the Zoom link on our Website. •Masks for Sale: beautifully handcrafted in washable colourful cottons, adult and child sizes in fitted or pleated styles; $10 donation suggested to cover materials and support Beach United programs like take away meals for the homeless. Call or email church office to arrange pick-up. Info: 416-691-8082, office@beachuc.com, www.beachunitedchurch.com. Find us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram. ST AIDAN’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, 2423 Queen St. E. at Silver Birch. Our ministries and programs are continuing, with study groups online, service videos on YouTube, opportunities to meet virtually in small groups, and an eco-spirituality theme for action and learning all year. Find out more on our website: staidansinthebeach.com WAVERLEY ROAD BAPTIST CHURCH, 129 Waverley Road (N of Queen). This pandemic isn’t keeping us from connecting with one another, even if it’s online, by phone, messaging, or writing cards and letters. So, we welcome you for our Sunday Morning Worship Service! We get together online at www.twitch.tv/waverleyroadbaptist beginning at 11 a.m. For more info: 416-694-3054, info@waverleyroadbaptist.ca, or www.waverleyroad.ca BIRCHCLIFF BLUFFS UNITED CHURCH, 33 East Rd. (Kingston Rd. & Warden Ave.). Info: 416-694-4081, www.bbuc.ca
BEACH GUILD OF FINE ART Online Art Show at http://bgfajulyshow.format.com. Show runs to Aug. 31. Info: www.beachguildoffineart.com
BEACHES PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 65 Glen Manor Dr. (S of Queen). Info: www.beacheschurch.org, 416-699-5871
GERRARD ART SPACE, 1475 Gerrard St. E. •Matt Wood: No Idea, September 9 – 27. In lieu of a traditional reception we are having an open house weekend with the artist present: Friday, Sept. 11, Saturday, Sept. 12, and
FALLINGBROOK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 35 Wood Glen Rd. (corner of Kingston Rd. and Wood Glen Rd.). Find us: www.fallingbrookpresbyterian.com or fboffice@rogers.com
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
BEACH METRO NEWS
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The Main Menu
Tips for beginners and pros on preserving summer Jan Main is an author, cooking instructor and caterer janmainskitchen@ yahoo.ca
WHEN I think of preserves, images of my Grandmother and Mother come to mind. In my Grandmother’s case, it was being sent downstairs to her preserve storage, rows of neat shelves beneath the basement stairs, lined with jars of chili sauce, jams and jellies mustard pickles but my favourite, her peach almond conserve. Only for special occasions and oh, soooo delicious! When I think of my Mother’s preserving escapades, (always the hottest day of the year), visions of her big blue preserving kettle filled with boiling water come to mind, steam rising and jars of pickled beets, zucchini relish, autumn relish and her specialty – red currant jelly. Now that was a labour of love! Preserving was easily several day’s work but worthwhile for that special taste with winter meals-yum! As a result of this COVID-19 virus, there are more people cooking, gardening and wanting to preserve, perhaps for the first time. Here are some tips to make the job fool proof. Of course, there are some tried and true recipes included to take us down memory lane.
Step by Step Home Canning Tips For: Jam, Jellies, Marmalades, Conserves, Fruit Butters, Pickles, Relishes, Chutneys, Condiments, Fruit Preserves and Tomatoes with added acid. 1. Always preserve the best quality fruit or vegetable, as close as “just picked” as possible, free of blemishes or bruises. Canning does not improve quality! 2. Prepare the canner – this refers to the large saucepan/ kettle required to boil the preserves. I highly recommend the smaller canners now available often complete with all the necessary tools from Bernardin often found in Canadian Tire and Home Hardware. The smaller quantity simplifies the job. Fill the kettle (canner) with enough hot water to cover jars by an inch (2.5 cm) set it on the stove and bring to boil (this will take some time) and you will be assured it will be ready when needed. 3. Wash and Sterilize Jars – Always use proper preserving jars which can withstand the heat necessary to process. Check the jars for cracks or nicks around the edge. If damaged, discard. Wash jars in hot sudsy water or dishwasher and rinse well. If processing time is 10 minutes or more, sterilizing jars in boiling water is un-
necessary. 4. Soften the sealing compound of new lids (always use new lids) in saucepan of boiling water 5 minutes. 5. Fill the jars to the required headspace, this is the space between the substance being processed and the edge of the jar. It allows for expansion while processing in a water bath. Headspace varies: 1/4 inch(.5 cm) jams, jellies, marmalades and conserves; ½ inch (1 cm)-fruits, relishes, pickles and chutneys. 6. Remove air bubbles. Once jar is filled to the required headspace, run a spatula along the inside of the jar, gently shifting the food to release air bubbles then readjust the headspace if necessary. 7. Wipe jar rims with a clean cloth to remove any food particles or stickiness which can interfere with an airtight seal. 8. Apply lids fingertip tight which provides some “give” between lid and screw band so that rising steam and air created inside the jar during heat processing can be exhausted. Once the lids have cooled there can be a “snap down” of the lid which indicates an airtight vacuum seal. 9. Process the jars in a
boiling water bath the required time according to the recipe once the water has come back to a full rolling boil. The time for many recipes is 10 minutes. Do not re-tighten the screw bans as this can damage the seal. 10. Check for seal – Once jars are removed from the boiling water bath and allowed to cool on a rack, you will hear and see a snap down of the center of the lid which indicates a good seal. A final check should be done after 24 hours. Once there is a seal, screw bands can be removed. (If there is no seal, refrigerate the jar and use up contents within a few days.) 11. Label, date and store preserves in a cool dark place for up to a year. Zucchini Relish A tasty companion to barbecued meats: sausages, burgers, chicken and pork; zucchini relish is equally good served with cheese. In this recipe, a food processor will make an easy job of chopping zucchini, onions and peppers. 4 cups (1 L) chopped zucchini (about 4-5). 2 cups (500 mL) chopped onions (about 2 large). 1 each, red and green pepper chopped.
1 tbsp (15 mL) pickling salt. 1 cup (250 mL) cold water. 1 cup (250 mL) granulated sugar. 1 tbsp (15 mL) cornstarch. 1 tbsp (15 mL) dry mustard. 1/2 tsp (2 mL) each, turmeric, nutmeg and celery seeds. 1 cup (250 mL) white vinegar. 1/3 cup (75 mL) cold water. In mixing bowl, combine zucchini, onions, red and green peppers; sprinkle with salt and pour in cold water. Stir well. Let stand for 1 hour or overnight. Drain and rinse under cold water; drain and press out excess moisture.In heavy saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, mustard, turmeric, nutmeg, celery seeds, vinegar and water; stir to combine well. Bring to boil; add drained vegetables and return to boil; stirring frequently. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered 20 -25 minutes stirring occasionally or until thickened. Fill jars to within ½ inch (1 cm) of rim; apply lids and screw band; process in boiling water bath 10 minutes. Remove to cooling rack; check for seal; label, date and store in cool dark place up to 1 year. Makes about 5 (1 cup/ 250 mL jars).
Herb Jelly This jelly can be made with almost any herb: mint, basil, thyme, tarragon or sage. It is a perfect companion to roast meats including the Thanksgiving turkey. 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) fresh, packed herb leaves, washed and coarsely chopped. 2 3/4 cup (675 mL) boiling water. 1/2 cup (125 mL) cider vinegar. Few drops green food colouring. 1 pkg (57 g) Fruit Pectin. 4 cups (1 L) granulated sugar. In a saucepan combine herbs, water and vinegar. Simmer together 15 minutes. Strain through sieve and colour delicately with food colouring. A little bit goes a long way! Return to saucepan; stir in pectin and bring to a full rolling boil. Stir in measured amount of sugar all at once and bring to a full boil for 1 minute stirring constantly. Immediately remove from heat; skim off foam. Spoon mixture into prepared jars to within 1/4 inch(0.5cm) of rim; place lids on and screw band; process in boiling water bath 5 minutes. Remove jars; cool; check for seal; remove screw bands, label, date and store in cool dry place. Makes about 5 cups (1.25L).
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Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
On The Wild Side
Crows are remarkable birds Ann Brokelman is an avid birder and nature photographer naturephotosbyann.blogspot.ca
WHEN PEOPLE ask me about birds, I often forget about, and then feel silly for forgetting about, crows. However, it would be silly to ignore the intelligence and interesting behaviours of these remarkable birds. They aren’t just smart, they are extremely intelligent. They can hide food and remember where they’ve left it, even if they’ve moved it to two or three different locations. They have excellent memories and are very good at remembering the people who are either kind, or antagonistic to them. If you search for this online, you’ll find anecdotes of people who have left food out for crows and then had the crows respond by bringing them gifts, such as beads, buttons, or even the occasional earring in return. You may have heard that a group of crows is called a murder, but why is that? Well, I don’t think anyone knows for sure, but it is believed to be based on old folk tales and superstition. Crows, as carrion eaters, have been symbolically linked with death for centuries, so perhaps the name originated when some peo-
ple noticed that crows were always milling about the deceased, and decided to blame the death, (murder), on the crows themselves. Adult crows have a harsh caw-caw sound but they also can make around 20 different vocalizations. Some other calls are the harsh ‘scold’, the female courting ‘rattle/knock’ call, the juvenile begging sound and clicks, coos, grunts and rattles. Their brain is similar in size to a parrot, and, just like a parrot, they can be taught to mimic our own words. Crows are omnivores which mean they eat nearly anything, including: insects, seeds, fruit, worms, other birds, and any carrion they find laying on the side of the road. Crows are part of the Corvidae family which includes ravens, jays, magpies and nutcrackers. Just the other day I was driving down to the beach when I saw and heard a family of crows in a parking lot, cawing. I pulled into the lot and decided to watch for a bit. One crow flew in with food, (a large bug), to give to a young crow. The vocal sound of the chick eating got my attention. It is really hard to describe, but it was fluttering their wings and making the “waaah, waaahhh” sound that roughly translates to “feed me, feed me”! The begging sound never stopped…
PHOTO: ANN BROKELMAN
A young crow looking to be fed. poor parent! Once the chick was done eating he began pecking at the adult, begging for more food. The mouth of the chick was very pink and he had bright blue eyes. The adult then flew off to look for more food for the chick. I was treated to a few more feedings but, unfortunately, had no camera in the car. (The fact that ‘I didn’t have a camera on me’ may be the most shocking thing I’ve ever written.) And I saved one of my favourite procrow points for last: if you hear crows cawing loudly, and repeatedly, there’s a very good chance that there is a hawk or owl nearby.
The crows don’t like having them around and will loudly do their best to chase them away. I would have missed out on hundreds of owl and hawk sightings if it weren’t for the help of crows. Over the next few months the Ontario raptors (hawks, eagles, falcons, ospreys, turkey vultures and harriers) will be migrating along the Scarborough Bluffs and Lake Ontario. If you find yourself near the water, and hear a repeated “cawcaw”, take a minute to look around you. I wouldn’t be surprised if you see something being chased by the crow. Enjoy the end of summer everyone!
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Beach Metro News AGM slated for Sept. 29 THE ANNUAL General Meeting of Ward 9 Community News Inc. (publisher of Beach Metro Community News) will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2020 starting at 7 p.m. Due to the COVID 19 pandemic and the need for social distancing, this meeting will be held online. Details on how to take part online will be provided closer to the date. The purpose of this meeting is to hear reports from the board of directors and staff, to hold elections for the 2020-2021 board, and to update the newspaper’s constitution to reflect minor changes that have happened since the last update in 2009. This meeting is open only to members of the newspaper association. The constitution defines membership as: “1. Any resident of the community where the newspaper is distributed, who is willing to support the aims and objectives of the organization, will be accepted into membership on payment of the current year’s fees ($2.00) and will be a member in good standing and will be eligible to vote if in attendance at the annual and general meetings as long as the current year’s fees are paid. 2. No member shall be under the age of sixteen. 3. All members of the distribution team, who have worked with the team for a minimum of six months (since March 29, 2020) shall be given an automatic membership in the 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.” Memberships will be for sale at the newspaper office until seven days before the AGM (up to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 22). Nominations: Three of the four elected board members (Desmond Brown, Doug Black and Mary Beth Denomy) are willing and eligible to continue serving on the board. There is no remuneration for being a board member. Board members oversee general operations but are not involved in the daily activities, news coverage or production. The election process is described in the constitution: “Election of officers shall be held at the annual meeting. Nomination for officers of the organization shall be received in writing, addressed to the newspaper’s secretary (Mary Beth Denomy) at least 14 days before the annual meeting (by Sept. 15). 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 (Sept. 22) in order that the membership be able to weigh the merits of each candidate and vote accordingly. Notice of the final dates for receiving nominations shall be published in the two issues immediately preceding that date (Aug. 25 and Sept. 8). Nominees for the board and nominators shall be members of the Ward 9 Community News Inc.”
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BEACH METRO NEWS
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
BEACH METRO NEWS
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BEACH METRO NEWS
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Deja Views
Proudly presented by Thomas Neal of Royal LePage Estate Realty
Strolling down Queen in the 1980s By David Van Dyke
This is the northwest corner of Hambly Avenue and Queen Street East. Back in the 1980s, when Chris Nicholls was a photography student, he strolled up and down Queen (here in the Beach) with his Hasselblad in tow. It has been a real treat to travel back to the 1980s and revisit all the shops that were here, and sometimes are still here. Thanks again Chris, for another amazing image. Want to see more of Chris’s work? Check out his website: chrisnicholls.live Do you have a shot of your business when you first opened in the Beach? Please contact me at gdvandyke61@ gmail.com
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
BEACH METRO NEWS
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BEACH METRO NEWS
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
BEACHMETRO.COM
PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY HEALTH DR. KARIN RUMMELL & ASSOCIATES OPTOMETRISTS 1914 Queen St. E. (E. of Woodbine) Mon.- Sat. by appointment
PSYCHOTHERAPY
COUNSELLING
LAWYERS/LEGAL
LAWYERS/LEGAL
MASSAGE THERAPY
Tara Shannon
LAURA DENT, BA, MA IN COUNSELLING
Dashwood & Dashwood
Peter J. Salah
advancedapproaches massage.com
Geoffrey J. Dashwood
Family Law & Estate Planning
M.Ed. Counselling Psychology, RP Registered Psychotherapist Psychotherapy for Individuals and Couples Insurance clients welcome Evening & weekend sessions available 579 Kingston Rd (corner Main)
416-691-5757
416 698-6960 tara@tarashannon.ca
BALSAM DENTAL
Beatriz Mendez
Family Dentistry * Open 6 days a week * * Evening hours available * New patients always welcome 2200 Queen St. East (at Balsam)
416-691-8555
www.balsamdental.com
BEACHES OPTOMETRY CLINIC Dr. Linda Chan, Optometrist and Associates
951 Kingston Rd. (West of Victoria Park)
416-691-1991
B.A. B.Ed. M.A. DipTIRP
Registered Psychotherapist Low Fee - High Value Therapy Kingston Rd. at Victoria Park Ave.
416-690-2417
www.East-Toronto-Therapy.com mendez.smith@sympatico.ca
Cont.
Counsellor since 2001. Specialize in Problem Solving EFT acupressure tapping for pain & stress Free 15 minute consultations; Face Time or Skype appointments. Kingston Rd and Beech Avenue
416-315-4591 LDENT@ROGERS.COM
Retired Psychotherapist:
finding meaning in your life 20 years experience $80/h on Zoom
Peg Earle M.A., M.Div., RMFT 647-970-6807
Psychologist
Consultations • Therapy Individuals • Couples Over 20 years experience. Located at Queen & Wheeler
416-691-1071
Dr. Linda Iny Lempert Psychologist & Psychoanalyst
Individuals & Couples Services disponibles en français Insurance Coverage 47 Main Street (at Lyall Ave)
Adults, Adolescents, Children 177 Danforth Avenue #301A 416-778-4242 www.christinaconnell.com
Caroline Duetz
Jungian Analyst Registered Psychotherapist 29 years in Private Practice
duetz@rogers.com 416-469-2423
ACCOUNTING
Bert van Delft
Complete financial services for the business owner, manager, entrepreneur & self-employed Corporate and Personal Income Tax Services Bus: 416-270-9898 98 Scarboro Beach Blvd.
Beaches Therapy Group 647 484 8622 www.beachestherapy.ca 579 Kingston Rd, M4E 1R3
BSc, MSW, PhD, RSW
Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist
Lakeside Wellness Therapy Affiliates Individual & Couple Care Child & Adolescent Counselling Services Wellness Life Coaching 1755 Queen St. E. • 416-951-8280
Dr. Paula Miceli, C.Psych. Registered Psychologist
Online Psychotherapy Services for Adults Evening & Weekend Sessions
Retired Psychotherapist: 20 years experience $80/h on Zoom
Peg Earle M.A., M.Div., RMFT 647-970-6807
COUNSELLING
Chartered Accountant • Corporate & Personal Tax • Specializing in small to medium business • Financial advice 21 St. Clair Avenue East, Suite 502
Tel: (416) 962-2186
www.Wellnesstogo.ca 416-707-4896
Catherine Allon, BSc, MEd Life & Relationship Issues
Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries Public 300 Main Street 416-690-3324
• Accounting services for owner-managed businesses. • Personal and corporation income tax preparation. • Audit and consulting services for not-for-profit organizations
ONLINE SESSIONS LGTBQ+ / Anxiety / Depression
KAMRUL HAFIZ AHMED REAL ESTATE LAWYER 416 690 1855 [P 416 690 1866 [F 2972 DANFORTH AVE.
Shelley C. Quinn, LL.B., LL.M. (Family Law)
662 Broadview Ave. t. (416) 551-1025 www.QuinnFamilyLaw.ca
KATO ANIMAL HOSPITAL 2830 Danforth Ave. (East of Dawes Rd.)
416-690-2112
Dogs, cats, pocket pets. Housecalls available.
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
Therapy with Barbara Affordable Talk Therapy for Individuals or Couples Therapist-in-Training Toronto Institute for Relational Psychotherapy
barbsaunders.com therapy@barbsaunders.com
Sound Ability
theresa.mckay57@gmail.com Theresa McKay B.Ed/ RT 647-270-0465
BEACHES MASSAGE CENTRE Randy Groening, RMT
2212 Queen St. E. (at Spruce Hill)
416-690-5185
THERAPY LOUNGE Megan Evans, RMT, CRHP & Associates Massage Therapy • Reflexology 2245 Queen St. East • 2nd floor • Open 7 days per week •
416-916-7122
454 Kingston Road
DENISE BADLEY-CASTELLO Family • Wills & Estates Real Estate
Tel: 647-963-2234 • Fax: 888-278-1007 kathleen@laverickfamily.law www.laverickfamily.law
Now serving the Beach community. Call or write to book a free half hour consultation
2069 Danforth Ave. (Woodbine) dbadleylaw@rogers.com
KATHRYN WRIGHT Family Law & Mediation 416-699-8848
2239 Queen Street East www.kathrynwrightlaw.com kathrynwrightlaw@gmail.com
URBAN CALM THERAPEUTICS Stephanie Gage, RMT Kristina Pearsal, RMT 1789 Queen St. East, Unit 6
www.urbancalm.ca 416-698-3157
416-690-6195
INSURANCE Leane Besky Insurance Agency Inc. DESJARDINS INSURANCE Auto, Home, Life, Critical Illness, Disability, Financial Services
2243 Queen St. E. 416-690-7900 www.leanebesky.com
Melani Norman
CPA, CMA Accounting Issues and Systems, Bookkeeping, Personal and Corporate Taxes
GARRY M. CASS
We specialize in wealth & retirement strategies, RRSPs, TFSAs, RESPs, Pensions and more. Life Insurance, Disability, Critical Illness
416-767-CASS (2277) x 207 416-795-4899 (cell) 416-491-0273 (fax) garrycass@sympatico.ca
Aldo Lopez-Gil CFPr, CIMr aldo.lopez-gil@edwardjones.com 416-691-8730
BARRISTER & SOLICITOR Estate Planning/Real Estate/Business House Calls
Call 416-471-0337
Glover & Associates Emily C. Larimer BOOKKEEPING & PERSONAL TAX RETURNS
INCLUDING TAXES IN ARREARS Call: 416-693-2274 emily@eclarimercga.com www.eclarimercga.com
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
CHIROPRACTORS
Jen Goddard, R.M.T. Neville Park Health Group 2455A Queen St. East
416-690-6257
416-691-3700
Queen and Hammersmith
DC, FRCCSS (C) Chiropractor Sports Injury Specialist 2455A Queen St. East Open Saturdays
Personal Injury Lawyer Car accidents, Slips and Falls, Disability Claims 220 Bay Street, Suite 1400 416-643-3857 pcahill@willdavidson.ca
Fairtax Accounting & Business Services Inc. 3000 Danforth Ave., Unit 3, Suite 123
Personal & Corporate Tax Returns E-file; Uber HST/GST Returns Business Plans & Projection
M. Shahab 647-836-5779 fairtax1994@yahoo.ca
NEXT DEADLINE August 31st
B. Arch. OAA, MRAIC “Serving the Beach since 1987” Residential, Restorations, Home Inspections, Commercial, Interiors, Landscapes COMPLETE PROJECT SERVICES FROM DESIGN THROUGH CONSTRUCTION
(416) 694-8181 www.stephenkingarchitect.com
W. MORRIS DESIGN ARCHITECTURAL AND INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTANTS DESIGN CONCEPTS AND PERMIT DRAWINGS WESLEY MORRIS, ARIDO, IDC, AATO
416-261-9679
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1522 Queen St. E. 416-465-5575 www.ashbridgeshealth.ca
eco Cremation & Burial Services Inc.
Life Celebrations. Done Differently. In Service with St. John’s Norway Cemetery & Crematorium.
647.660.5056 www.ecofuneral.ca
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Reel Beach: Movies in East Toronto
Jewison’s films speak for social justice Bernie Fletcher “We have to deal with prejudice and injustice or we will never understand what is good and evil, right and wrong; we need to feel how ‘the other’ feels.” (Norman Jewison in This Terrible Business has been Good to Me.) Times of crisis bring out the best in people ...and the worst. We’ve seen incredible courage from health-care heroes and racist rants from covidiots who want to blame “the other”. Filmmaker Norman Jewison was born in 1926 and grew up during the Great Depression when a wave of anti-Semitism and Fascism swept the world like a virus of hatred. No community was immune. In the summer of 1933 a Swastika Club “patrolled” the Boardwalk to “rid” the beach of “undesirables”. Jewison learned about prejudice at a young age. In his memoirs he writes that he was bullied because of his last name. His classmates at Kew Beach School beat him up and called him names. Little Norman even thought he was Jewish. The Jewison family lived above their dry goods store at Kippendavie Avenue and Queen Street East. At the age of six Norman started going with his friend, Stanley, to the nearby synagogue on Kenilworth Avenue (the Beach Hebrew Institute celebrates its 100th anniversary this year). One day his friend’s mother asked Stanley why Norman’s parents never bring him to shul. Stanley replied brightly, “They do, too. They go to Bellefair United Church every Sunday.” Norman’s mom explained to him that “the Jewisons
Director Norman Jewison works with Denzel Washington during the filming of 1999’s The Hurricane. have always been Methodist”. Jewison relates this story in the context of a 1969 meeting about directing Fiddler on the Roof. He blurted out to studio heads, “What would you say if I told you I’m a goy!” Jewison got the job and made one of the great musicals. Fiddler won three Oscars telling a tale not just about “tradition” but also the intolerance of the pogroms (massacres) in Eastern Europe: “I had felt I shared a bond with the real Jewish kids I went to school with. It had a lot to do with being treated as a minority, an outsider, a victim, and the feeling never left me for the rest of my life.” After serving in the Canadian Navy Jewison hitchhiked across the American South in 1946 still wearing his dress uniform and saw segregation for himself. One day he walked to the back of a bus and sat down with the Black patrons. The driver yelled at him, “You tryin’ to be smart, sailor?” It was from these experiences that “the desire to make films such as In the Heat of the Night and A Soldier’s Story took root. “It was still with me when I made The Hurricane about
Hurricane Carter, a Black man wrongly convicted of murder,” he wrote. Jewison considers these films about racial injustice to be his most important works. In 1978 Jewison came back to Canada to live. The Hurricane (1999) was filmed mostly in Toronto where much of the story is actually set. The Canada Post box where young Lasra mails a letter to Carter is still there on Gerrard Street East near Woodbine Avenue. A house on Kingswood Road was also used as a location. You can come home again. In times of trouble many blame “the other”. Films can help us see life through the eyes of those who are different. We’re all in this together. All it takes for hatred to spread is for people of goodwill to do nothing. In Fiddler on the Roof Jewish villages are burned. A sympathetic constable sighs, “Orders are orders, you understand.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke of “the fatigue of despair” but reminded us that “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it tends toward justice.” As one of Jewison’s films is titled, let’s hope the future leads to And Justice for All.
Fox reopens after COVID-19 closure By Amanda Gibb
THE FOX Theatre reopened on Aug. 7 after a long COVID-19 closure. The theatre is located at 2236 Queen St. E. in the Beach. Daniel Demois, one of the Fox’s owners, said he was excited to be able to open the doors to moviegoers again after being closed for almost five months due to COVID-19. “It’s something of a relief certainly, it’s great. We’ve been planning for months and trying to anticipate what the requirements will be… it’s nice when the planning is
tied to a specific open date,” said Demois. The theatre is following COVID-19 safety protocols, including limiting the number of people attending indoor gatherings to no more than 50. “We’re closing off every other row, and will have all the same things you see at other places like distance markers, and there will be counter shields at the snack bar,” said Demois. Following Toronto’s mandatory mask bylaw, all patrons will be required to wear a mask or face covering inside the theatre. Demois said the Fox The-
atre received a great deal of support from the community while closed. “People started buying gift cards and memberships, even though they didn’t know when they’d be able to use them next,” he said. Demois said that this provided a needed influx of revenue, as did the “seat sale” in April when people could pay to have a plaque with their name or the name of a loved one to be on seats. “It gives you such a nice feeling that you’re part of something that means so much to so many people.” For more info, please visit www.foxtheatre.ca
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Arts & Entertainment
Julian Taylor keeps performing, releases new album The Ridge By Amanda Gibb
ACCOMPLISHED FOLK musician and east-end Toronto resident Julian Taylor has kept busy despite COVID-19 disrupting the live music industry. Taylor recently played virtually for the 2020 Beaches Jazz Festival and said he was honoured to be asked to be a part of it. “It’s always a bit strange because you don’t get any sort of feedback that way. You’re just playing to a camera really,” said Taylor of the online performing experience. Taylor has lived in the Woodbine and Danforth avenues area for close to 20 years now and often takes part in local shows in Toronto. Taylor said that his favourite part about the neighbourhood is that it doesn’t feel like living in a large city. “I could just walk down the street and see the sky and I couldn’t do that in downtown. I just felt like the east end is like a little town on its own,” he said. Taylor also recently performed live for the first time since the pandemic began as part of the Ottawa Bluesfest Drive-in concert in late July. “I did get fan interaction but it was honking horns…It was exhilarating to be there, it was so much fun,” said Taylor. Taylor said that the live performance industry is in “dire straits” and has been greatly impacted by COVID-19, but that he has hope for the industry’s future. “I always see hope for the future. I think everything has changed and we’re
PHOTO: LISA MACINTOSH
Julian Taylor, who lives in the Woodbine and Danforth area, recently released his tenth album The Ridge adapting to our surroundings, and I think live music is such an important thing that we’re going to figure it out,” said Taylor. He said that he has already received an email about a venue opening up for live music this fall, but adhering to the half-capacity rule put in place by the province. “What I don’t foresee is the big stadium arena tours happening because I don’t know if people are going to be interested,” he said. Taylor released his tenth album, titled The Ridge, in April. The title song is based on his summers with his grandparents in Maple Ridge, British Columbia. “We lived on a little farm. We had horses, we had chickens, my grandparents bred boxers as well, so I got to spend my summers on the left coast with them,” he said. Taylor said that his family has always been very musical. His grandfather loved blues music, his father played classical piano,
and Taylor sang in a church choir. Taylor’s cousins Gene and Barry Diabo also played on The Ridge with Taylor. “They used to play in bands all the time, so they came down to play on the record, which is great. It really is a family affair,” said Taylor. Taylor, who is part Mohawk and West Indian, said that some people have preconceived notions of what genre of music he plays and what his voice will sound like. “I just play whatever. I’ve always played what I love and I love everything from Bob Marley to Johnny Cash. And it was always funny to see their faces when I sang a Johnny Cash song. They just look dumbfounded,” said Taylor. Taylor said that he and his manager purposely chose the cover of the album, a picture Taylor took himself of his great aunt’s farm in Creemore, Ontario. “Finally we decided that we were not going to use my
face because he and I both felt that the best possible scenario would be for people to see the cover, not a Black person with dreadlocks on the cover so that they would listen to the music without any preconceived notions,” he said. Taylor’s said that his take on social change in general amid the Black Lives Matter movement is a little different than most people, in that he hasn’t taken an activist approach and is a spiritual person. “When it comes to social changes, my whole take is that it has to happen. The doors have to open for women and for minorities, because the doors haven’t been open for them the way that they have been open for other people,” said Taylor. Taylor adds that he believes the conversations happening are positive, even if they are difficult. To learn more about Taylor and to listen to The Ridge and his other albums, please visit www.juliantaylormusic. ca/home
Gerrard Art Space shows planned THE GERRARD Art Space will be hosting a pair of exhibitions this month and next. Jyne Greenley: Styx & Stones IV With A Touch of Co(r)vid is on until Sept. 6. Starting Sept. 9 through to Sept. 27 will be Paintings From the Pandemic by Matt C. Wood. In lieu of an artist’s reception, the Gerrard Art Space will host an open house with artist Wood present on Sept. 11, 12 and 13 from 2 to 7 p.m. The Gerrard Art Space is located at 1475 Gerrard St. E. The gallery is open for the public to visit (while following COVID-19 safety protocols) from Wednesday to
Sunday from 2 to 7 p.m. For more info, please visit www.gerrardartspace.com Local clowns in Edinburgh Fringe PATTY SILVER and Cat Connor from the Sphere Clown Band are in the Virtual Edinburgh Festival Fringe. They will be performing as musical clowns Patty and Giggles respectively in the virtual festival which goes until Aug. 30. The Sphere Clown Band has been based in the Beach since 1977. Silver was named Beach Citizen of the Year in 2010. To see the performance, go to https://online.thespaceuk. com/watch-shows/childrens
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Arts & Entertainment
Malvern Collegiate student publishes book of short stories By Amanda Gibb
GRADE 9 student Syeda Mahdia of Malvern Collegiate Institute recently achieved the feat of becoming a published author. Her collection of short stories titled Centrality – The Key to the Cosmos: And Other Stories was self-published by Mahdia in June of this year. “I always daydream a lot. And I always have these ideas, but I was never sure that it could actually be a book,” said Mahdia in an interview with Beach Metro News. Mahdia gained confidence in her writing when she was taking a summer extra credit course. It was there that one of her teachers described her writing as talented beyond the ordinary for a teenager. Mahdia said that she wrote the book between November 2019 until around the end of March 2020. During this time, she said her English teacher Hannah Burkhardt was supportive of her work and helped her put everything together and with the editing process. “After a parent-teacher interview Miss Burkhardt told my parents that if I continued writing, and gave her some of my stories to edit, she could make it into a book,” she said. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Mahdia said that she figured out how to publish
PHOTO: SUBMITTED
Malvern Collegiate student Syeda Mahdia recently published her collection of short stories: Centrality The Key to Cosmos: And Other Stories. The book’s cover art was created by Malvern student Renee Orchard. by herself through online research. “The publishing process was completed in evenings and weekends after completing school work during remote learning. The independence and perseverance for someone so young is amazing,” said Burkhardt. Mahdia said that the genre of her stories fall under either adventure or fantasy involving fantasy worlds and
objects. “My favourite story is the one I wrote about the pirates. Instead of writing like a typical pirate ship story with death and shoving people overboard and pillaging, I made it like maybe pirates aren’t what we think they are. We don’t really understand them that much,” she said. Renee Orchard, a Grade 11 art student also attending
Book about growing up in Beach in 1950s available at local stores THE BOOK, BOOM: A Child of the Beach in Toronto Remembers the 50s is now available to be purchased locally. Copies of the book by Keith Black can be found at Book City on Queen Street East and Danforth Avenue and at The Great Escape Book Store on Kingston Road. Also, those looking for more information on the book or to order a copy directly from the author, can contact Black at kandjomemee@gmail.com Beach Metro News has been running chapters from the book on our website at www.beachmetro.com every Tuesday since July 14. Today, Aug. 25, will see Chapter Seven posted up on our website. Here’s a brief taste of Chapter Seven of BOOM: A Child of the Beach in Toronto Remembers the 50s for our readers. You see the rest at our website:
CHAPTER SEVEN RAAAAGABEAU. RAAAAGABEAU. This word or semblance of a word was yelled loudly and nasally and when my friends and I heard it, we ran from wherever we were playing to stare. We didn’t get too close; we were deathly afraid of the source of that strange
call. But we were fascinated. RAAAAGABEAU. It sounded like it was all one word with the second half rising but not quite like a question, but more like an implication. Invariably the fellow making this announcement was a wizened and seedy looking chap and invariably he was accompanied by a beefier but equally seedy partner...
Malvern Collegiate, is the artist behind the book’s intricate cover. “She’s absolutely amazing at line art and drawing. She gets all the credit for it,” said Mahdia. Burkhardt connected the two students together to collaborate on the cover based on their similar interests in fantasy. “Renee is known to explore fantastical worlds in her own work…The two students working together was a natural fit,” said Burkhardt. Mahdia has garnered much support for her book from many people in the communityincludingherformerpublic school, John A. Leslie, on MidlandAvenuewhereMahdiahas been invited to speak in September. The principal of Malvern Collegiate, Bernadette Shaw acknowledged the achievements of the students in an email to the school community. “I am gob-smacked! Wow, impressive. I…did want to acknowledge here as well just how proud I feel to have both students attend Malvern C.I. We will be sure to have copies inourlibraryaswellaspostthis information to the Malvern C.I. website,” she said in the email. Mahdia said at the moment, she’s not sure what’s next for her. “I’m going to continue writing and see if something else comes out of that. Hopefully I get to continue writing stories, and hopefully people like them,” she said. Centrality – The Key to the Cosmos: And Other Stories is available on Amazon in both paperback and Kindle versions. To learn more, visit www.amazon.ca/CentralityKey-Cosmos-Other-Storiesebook/dp/B089T8GY7N
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Residents voted for best expanded patio in the Beach Village
Clustering of cannabis shops concerns Councillor Fletcher
THE BEACH Village BIA recently held an online contest in which residents could vote for what they considered to be the best expanded patio space along Queen Street East between Lockwood Road and Neville Park Boulevard. As part of the City of Toronto’s CAFETO program, which allowed local restaurants to expand into additional street and sidewalk space in order to help them recover from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous eateries in the Beach have added more patio space. The patios are larger than in past summers, and in many cases are actually on Queen Street East itself due to the CAFETO rules which allowed for the extra space to be used. The contest invited residents to vote for their favourite expanded patio space. Many of the patios in the contest were also being sponsored/supported by other Beach Village BIA businesses. The patios in the contest were: Bagels on Fire, sponsored by realtors the Wright Sisters; Beacher Cafe, sponsored by DeClute Realty; Breakwall BBQ, sponsored by realtor Shea Warrington (Shea Sells Boutique Real Estate); Gabby’s; Green Eggplant, sponsored by realtors Wafa & Jalila; Gull & Firkin, Beaches Brewing and Hogtown Smoke, sponsored by The Richard’ Group; Isabella’s Boutique Restaurant, sponsored by the realtor Tory Brown Team; Remarkable Bean, sponsored by realtors the Wright Sisters; Riptide Beach Pub; Slate; The Stone Lion, sponsored by DeClute Realty; and Xola, Corks & Platters, Delhi Bistro, sponsored by realtors the Wright Sisters. On Aug. 21, the Beach Village BIA announced on Facebook that Breakwall BBQ, sponsored by realtor Shea Warrington (Shea Sells Boutique Real Estate), was the contest winner.
By Ali Raza
TORONTO HAS formally requested the province’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission to review its proximity rules of new cannabis retail stores opening in the city. The request follows what some residents and Toronto councillors are calling “cannabis clustering” on Queen Street East and other retail-heavy neighbourhoods across the city. Toronto-Danforth Councillor Paula Fletcher presented the motion first at Toronto and East York Community Council on July 16 for the AGCO to consider proximity to schools, parks, public spaces, and other cannabis retail stores when reviewing applications. “In the past few months a noticeable cluster of cannabis shop applications have been made on Queen Street in the Riverside Neighbourhood of Toronto-Danforth,” Fletcher said. “The provincial regulations are far more permissive than the originally proposed municipal rules, which would have prevented some of the clustering issues.” In response to cannabis store clustering in East Toronto, and beyond in other neighbourhoods, the city adopted Fletcher’s motion at its full council meeting at the end of July. It requests AGCO to con-
sider the proximity and number of community services that involve children and/or vulnerable adults, the proximity of parks and other publicly accessible places which support or enable consumption of cannabis outside of private homes, and any communications from the city that do not support clustering of pot shops. The motion was partially prompted by a letter Fletcher received from the Ralph Thornton Community Centre about the number of stores in a small area along Queen Street East in her ward. In the letter, management board chair Alan Lennon said the clustering doesn’t make business sense, nor does it consider the community’s needs. “While we are not concerned about marijuana dispensaries per se, the notion
of having this many shops in close proximity to each other will inevitably lead to the failure of some or all of these shops,” Lennon wrote. “A concentration of one kind of retail simply means that there will well be a lack of other kinds of retail options in the neighbourhood.” “A lack of variety in retail options will result in fewer pedestrians and less traffic because of the lack of choice available,” he added. The motion notes the four pending applications for Queen Street East pot shops include Meta Cannabis Co. (698 Queen St. E.), Nova Cannabis (728 Queen St. E.), an unnamed cannabis retail shop at 745 Queen St. E., and Cannoe (800 Queen St. E.). The city received notices of these shops between May 4 and June 12, and they’re all within one city block (along
Queen Street East in the area of Broadview Avenue), Fletcher said. “Four cannabis shops in such a small stretch is too much,” Fletcher said. “Residents are concerns about the impacts these shops will have on the area.” Beyond Riverside, plenty of pot shops are popping up in other East Toronto areas including the Beaches. There are three cannabis shops opening up farther east on Queen Street East. Wonderland Cannabis (1578 Queen St. E) and The Neighbourhood Joint (1987 Queen St. E. in the Beach) opened this month, while Canyon Cannabis just down the road at 1984 Queen St. E. is expected to open soon. Also, Tokyo Smoke has opened at 1303 Queen St. E., near Alton Avenue in Leslieville.
Sandwich Sisters have prepared and delivered thousands of meals Continued from Page 1 members. However, 99 per cent of the pods are self-sustainable or self-funded. They also pick up and deliver the goodies to the shelters,” said Quigley. Right now, Sandwich Sisters donates food to many shelters including the Native Cultural Centre, The Sanctuary, Yonge Street Mission, and others. Sandwich Sisters have also received many dona-
tions from different grocery store chains across the city including Sobeys, Metro, No Frills, and others. Quigley said that Natalia Kostiw, a key member of Sandwich Sisters, inspired hundreds of students across the city to volunteer. She said that they can sign off on volunteer hours required by high school students to graduate. Quigley said that volunteering is a way to feel more in touch with the community
as many people may feel isolated during the pandemic. “You get to know the parents who drop off sandwiches and the people who are super generous with their time. It’s significant what people do,” said Quigley. She said that right now there is still a need for more volunteers. To learn more about Sandwich Sisters, please visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ sandwichsisterspods
PHOTO/SUBMITTED
Volunteers from the Sandwich Sisters deliver food to a Toronto shelter. Formed at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Sandwich Sisters now more than 280 volunteers and have made and delivered tens of thousands of sandwiches and other food items.
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Class size is among key area of concern for local parents Continued from Page 1 air quality in schools. This money will come from boards’ reserves, in addition to $309 million supplied by the provincial government. Story, Aarts, and Kennedy all said that they have had many parents reach out to them worried about the health and safety of their children, and about the unknowns of how going back to school will work. “On one side we have parents who need to return to work and needing their kids to be safe, social, and learning…They need that coverage and support. On the other side is a basket of concerns about a safe return to school,” said Story. Kennedy said that the main concern she hears from parents is about the size of classes. “I’m getting all kinds of messages from parents… We will find that the main thing is that parents want a cohort of 15. They don’t want the size to be 30 or 20,” said Kennedy. Beaches East-York MPP Rima Berns-McGown said that the Ministry of Education is dealing with the students going back to school “terribly.” “No parent should have to make a choice between their child’s education and their child’s health. No parent should have to make a choice between their ability to put food on the table and their child’s education,” she said. Berns-McGown said that some parents don’t have the luxury of working from home or to help their children with digital learning. She also said that the plan is putting both students and parents in a terrible position. “It’s bad for teachers and staff. It’s bad for parents and economically it’s very, very ill-advised. It’s bad for our economy because it’s going to hasten shutting down again,” said Berns-McGown. She said that she thinks the provincial government doesn’t want to spend the money needed to hire extra staff, make class sizes smaller, and rent out additional space. “But what my point is, is that it’s going to end up costing our economy. So they’re actually going to end up losing fiscally as well as in terms of what it means for our health and kids’ education,” she said. Berns-McGown said that parents don’t know what to do in the face of so much uncertainty. “They’re really panicked. They don’t know what to do to solve this problem, they want their kids to be educated…Trying to educate
‘This is not the place to cut corners with children’s safety.’ Parent Yona Nestel
your kids while you’re trying to concentrate on your own work took a huge toll on people, and it didn’t work for many people,” she said. She said that along with the health of students, parents are concerned about their children contracting COVID-19 at school and exposing immunocompromised or older people in the household to the virus. “There’s no plan, it’s a disaster. And now we’re two weeks away and it’s just a mess,” she said. Chair of Secord Public School Council and parent Yona Nestel said she was outraged by the plan as it stood prior to Aug. 20. “The province has billions of dollars of reserve funds it’s sitting on…This is not the place to cut corners with children’s safety,” she said. Nestel is concerned about her daughter who is due to start junior kindergarten this fall. “Am I really supposed to send this tiny little person who has very little understanding about things like social distancing? This is her first experience in an institutional setting, and this is the demographic they really want to cut corners on?” she said. Nestel said that she’s worried about what the school day is going to look like for her children and if it will be a warm and welcoming environment. “I care about their psychosocial wellbeing. I’m sending them back to school because they need to be together with peers…if school is going to be a scary, emotionally sterile place, there’s no point in me taking the risk of sending them,” she said. Nestel said that the safety of children in schools is not about money, but rather of “political will.” She said that she feels for the trustees that are doing their best despite the uncertainty and limited resources. “I also want to say I’m proud of how parents and educators came together to do advocacy. I’m part of a group called Ontario Parent Action Network, and they’ve been doing some amazing
grassroots advocacy work,” she said. Parent Jennifer Sheridan said in an interview last Wednesday that she will not be sending her daughter back to school for Grade 1 at Oakridge Public School. “We’ve decided with a heavy heart not to, but it doesn’t feel like we have a lot of choice,” said Sheridan. She said that her daughter, who is on the autism spectrum, will be missing out on routine and opportunities for socialization with other children. “I’m very lucky that I can be with her and give so much of my attention to her. But that is not a typical experience, and I can’t make up for peers, and how valuable actual teachers who are trained to do the job are to her life,” she said. Sheridan said that remote learning has its own share of challenges, referencing her experiences in the spring with 30 kindergarteners trying to “operate at the same time like a Google Meet.” “We’re trying to minimize how much we lose. We’re aware that we’re going to lose some things, and it’s a matter of trying to guess what we’re going to lose to try to get ahead of that desperately,” said Sheridan. For more information on the most current back-toschool plans for the TDSB and the TCDSB, please visit www.tdsb.on.ca or www. tcdsb.org/FORSTUDENTS/ back-to-school/Pages/Default.aspx respectively.
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Upper Beach. Large 1-2 bdrm apt. in semi detached home. 2 levels of living space. Main floor & bsmt. Very clean. First time offered in 14 yrs. Priv. ent, eat-in kit, hrdwd flrs, full size liv. & din. rms. Large sun filled enclosed back porch, backyrd, lndry, storage rooms. Very quiet, friendly residential street. Close to all amenities. No smoking. Avail Sep or Oct 1st. $1850/mo, all utils incl. (11) Paul 416-890-4644
FOUND: Bicycle light outside the Beacher Café on July 26th. Please call 647-995-6213 to identify
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Personal Care Botox: Facial, squint, and/or forehead. $10 per unit. 416-699-0589 (r) Dr. Cathy Andrew
Employment Opportunities
Quiet 2 storey, 1 Bedroom Reno with office and laundry. Garden views. Kingston Rd. & Hunt Club. $1450 + Hydro (approx. $60)
416-690-9655
(11)
Shared Accommodation
Balmy Beach Community Day Care Centre is looking to hire Registered Early Childhood Educator’s and childcare assistants to join our team on a casual basis as soon as possible. We are a unionized centre in a school based setting. Experience working with children is an asset, training will be provided. Please send resume to balmybeachcomday@bellnet.ca (11)
Shared accommodation for student. Room available in house (shared with owner and ESL student). September occupancy. In house laundry, kitchen and separate bathroom. Near Main subway. $700/mth. Call 647-686-4262 (11)
SUPER/HANDYMAN WANTED
For Sale
A 5 unit building between two attached semi houses in the Beach. Unit is currently available if you would prefer to live there at reduced rent. Ideally you have some skill in all the trades. Please send your resume via email to:
tedm811@gmail.com
(11)
BALMY BEACH CLUB is hiring busstaff, hostess, greeters, support staff, servers. Part time & Full time positions available. Smart serve certified and must be at least 18 years of age Please send resume to charlene@balmybeachclub.com (11)
Burial Plots
McArthur & Son Business Centre Air conditioning, boardroom, kitchen area, copier, etc. Individual offices from $425/mth. 577-579 Kingston Rd. @ Main St.
Paul McArthur 416-821-3910 pmcarthur577@gmail.com www.mcarthurbusinesscentre.com
(r)
UPPER BEACHES OFFICE SPACE Ideal for medical professionals, lawyers or accountants
416-690-2880
NEXT DEADLINE AUGUST 31
(r)
(w. of Midland)
416-698-9000
(r)
BLIND AMBITION Custom Window Coverings Drapes, Blinds, Valances Also Duvet Covers, Shams, etc. For estimate call
647-899-9074
(r)
General Services
WAYNE’S
RECYCLING • DEMOLITION ODD JOBS • SNOW REMOVAL 416-264-1495 CELL 416-567-4019 (14)
SCARBOROUGH DISPOSAL LTD. Celebrating 30+ years in the GTA Family owned and operated Fast, Friendly, Reliable Service 4 - 40 yrd Roll-off bins 4 - 20 yrd Hook lift bins MOE licensed, Fully Insured WSIB certificates avail. upon request
(r)
Computer Services Computer Professional
On-Site & Remote
IT Support
Call or text 416-801-6921 computer-assist@outlook.com
(11)
(r)
10+ years experience Plumbing, Electrical, Carpentry, Painting, and Handy Work. Randall 416-450-0599 TorontoMrFixIt@gmail.com (11.0r)
Backyard Basement Garage cleanups Rubbish Removal Small Demolitions Free Estimates
(11.)
Peter the Handyman General repairs: Drywall / Caulking / Painting etc. Odd jobs: Fixtures, TV, Shelf & Picture install / Furniture assembly (IKEA)... & much more! Call/text Peter 416 577 4252 (11)
MAN WITH PICK-UP TRUCK For light moves/deliveries, cleanups, junk removal, etc. Efficient. Best rates. Call Max
416-820-1527
(11.r)
Financial Services
EXPRESS JUNK REMOVAL
Business & Personal Income Tax Computer Bookkeeping & Accounting
Best Prices/Free Estimates
+ SMALL JOB HANDYMAN 647-235-6690
HELLARRA SERVICES INC.
416-694-6241
(11)
beachmetro.com
1232 Kingston Rd., Suite 5 Toronto, ON M1N 1P3
(r)
(11r)
CAT CARE SERVICE Veterinary Technician with 20 yrs experience provides excellent care - Home visits - Boarding in my home - Experienced in giving oral, I.V. and sub-Q medications - Nail trims - References
Call Candy at 416 691-3170
(12)
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!
Proudly serving the Beach for over 20 years Neil Bennett B.Ed./OCT Sally Vickers B.Ed./OCT
(11r)
THE STUDY STUDIO
416-690-6116 www.thestudystudio.com (15r)
Andrew English B.Ed.
HELP FOR STRUGGLING READERS A fully-qualified special education specialist is available to support elementary students. Let me help your child reach their full potential. Homework help and enrichment are also available. Please contact me at
416-884-1402. References avail. (11.r)
ZOOM REMOTE TUTORING
Window & Eaves Cleaning Gutter Filter Installation
TUTOR FOR FRENCH & FI
(22)
A family business since 1956
(r)
Please contact: 647-406-4681
LAWN CUTTING 416 414 5883 info@blpm.ca
(Beach area) by high school teacher. 17+ years experience in Public School Board, including AP French & German. Online tutoring available. References available upon request
(11r)
EUROPEAN CLEANING LADIES
offer complete and thorough cleaning service for your house • office • condo Call Ilona 416-427-3815 (11$)
Comet Janitorial & Remediation Services
Residential / Commercial / Industrial Carpet Cleaning • Building Restoration Crime Scene & Trauma Clean-Up Hoarding Clean Out
FREE ESTIMATES • 437-370-5574 www.cometjanitorial.com (11r)
EXTREME CLEANING I provide excellent cleaning services for residential homes and condos.
(14.)
Bach to ROCK
THE TWO FOURS Rock, Roll, Roots, Blues, Country & Random Your local Rock ‘n’ Roots Revival Band
BEACH PROPERTY MAINTENANCE -Lawn Cutting
-Spring/Fall Property Clean-Ups -Hedge Trimming
416-414-5883
(11.r)
LAWN CUTTING SERVICES
Green Apple Landscaping Front yard parking pads Drawings • Permits • Build 416-288-1499 www.greenapple.ca
(r)
STONEHENGE LANDSCAPE • DESIGN & BUILD
416-467-6059
• Design and Construction •
www.kimpricelandscapedesign.com (4/21)
BEACH PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
info@blpm.ca
(11.r)
Beach Builds
647 679 3282 (11.r)
*STARTING AT $20
Stone Driveways
beachlawncare2020@gmail.com (11.r)
647 679 3282
Beaches Sod & Seed Co
THE STONE PORCH LANDSCAPING
416-691-8503
647 679 3282 beachbuilds.ca
(11.r)
james@mrtreeman.ca 416 436 5821 www.mrtreeman.ca (11r!)
Gardening - Clean Up - Trimming - Seeding, planting, etc.
437-345-9858
(14)
HELP WITH MATH & ENGLISH
Gardening
Your local tree experts! Fallen Trees, Damaged Limbs, Chipping & Removal.
647-836-7060 (r)
- Clean Up - Trimming - Seeding, planting, etc.
437-345-9858
(11.r)
Finely Finished Stone Work www.thestoneporch.com thestoneporch@gmail.com
416-265-6674
(11.r)
WRITTEN IN STONE
Tutoring
INDIV/GRP TUITION IN YOUR HOME QUALIFIED + EXPERIENCED TEACHER, K-12 PROVEN SUCCESS - REFS AVAILABLE (11.r)
(r)
Beaches Driveway Inc.
www.rockwoodtree.services
• COVID CATCH-UP • • in-depth homework/test help • • essay-writing + study skills • • numeracy + literacy support •
www.greenapple.ca
www.beachbuilds.ca
ROCKWOOD TREE SERVICES
call ALBERTO 416 690 9389 for
25 years Experience Read our reviews on Homestars.com One-of-a-Kind Outdoor Living Spaces
“General Outdoor Stonework” RETAINING WALL SPECIALIST Contact: JB Barton
We’re back! Spaced out! Shielded! And always Ready to Rock your party or event! (Watch this space!) thetwofours@eol.ca • 416-690-5442 https://facebook.com/thetwofoursband
Award Winning Design & Build
416-414-5883
Kingston Rd/Vic Park
Online lessons for piano & guitar joyofmusictoronto.com 416-269-8109 (11.)
Landscapers
LAWN CUTTING
James Clarke
Music Lessons piano, guitar, voice violin, drums and more
Pruning, Cabling, Planting, Arborist Reports, Removals, Stumps, Milling Free Quotes! 416.546.4889 info@evergreentreecare.ca (16) evergreentreecare.ca
Creating Award Winning Gardens
Garden & Tree
Professional Arborist
JOY OF MUSIC
YOUR LOCAL, FAMILY RUN TREE PRESERVATION SPECIALISTS
Landscape Design 647-545-5143
Brand new reno, full lower level Playroom, art & crafts and quiet room Following COVID Childcare Guidelines Near the Hunt Club, south of Kingston Dodie 416-707-7225 (11) mezo@rogers.com
Mr Tree Man
(r)
EVERGREEN TREE CARE
KIM PRICE
HOME CHILD CARE Opening October 1st
We teach it all!
Scarboro Music
(11)
(r)
“Sodding/seeding done quick and easy at a reasonable rate”
Music
Greg 416-693-8678
www.carbontip-toe.com
www.stonehengedesignbuild.com
Beach Lawn Care
Who has the time to clean anymore? I have the time, so give me a call. Roxanne 647 886 8303
416-699-8333
(14)
Child Care Available
info@blpm.ca
(11..)
Excellent pruning and trimming of shrubs, hedges and small trees. Planting and soil amendments. Butterfly gardens. Maintenance, mowing etc. Environmentally friendly!
416-288-1499
RILEYS’ WINDOW CLEANING
Call 416-783-3434
GARDEN AND LAWN
Green Apple Landscaping
Reasonable Price Math G4-G12 8+ years experience Master (Applied Math) Contact: Inspire Math (Naoki) inspiremathcanada@gmail.com (11v)
Contact Martha @ Cell: 647-206-1415 Home: 416-449-0171
INDOOR / OUTDOOR
info@ecofuneral.ca or 647 660 5056
OFFICE SPACE
2358 Kingston Rd.
Call Bob 416-699-5306 cell 416-459-4137
416 389 9234
Individualized tutoring and programs for grades 3-12 in all subjects. Proven success with thousands of Beach area students for 20 years. On Kingston Rd. just east of Vic Park
www.beachpuppylove.com
BEACHES LAWN MAINTENANCE
B&W DISPOSAL
Wanted Do you own a plot at St. John’s Norway Cemetery you’ll never use? We can buy this privately from you. Email or call today
Commercial Space for Rent
Vienna Upholstery
Helping the student in your house adapt to the new educational reality.
www.headstarttutors-ca.com 416-272-9589 • hstarttutors@gmail.com
416 421-5758
PROFESSIONAL, MATURE, RELIABLE RENOVATIONS AND REPAIRS
(11)
BEACH PUPPY LOVE
Currently offering SKYPE/FACETIME SESSIONS
is an essential service and under new ownership! We are available for dog walking and for owners in quarantine, boarding and in-home training programs. We observe sanitary protocol. We are accepting new clients in the beach and South Etobicoke!
rileyswindowcleaning.com
MR. FIX-IT
St. John’s Norway Cemetery
www.beachmetro.com
(r)
Home Decor
416-265-7979 scarboroughdisposal.com
Acorn Stairlift 12 ft 4 in extension 22 in Cost $3200, sell $1600
416-686-8986
(r)
KLEEN WINDOWS
Apartment/ Home for Rent
Volunteers
Head Start Tutors
Pet Services
Income Tax Preparation
(14)
Driveways • Patios • Steps Retaining Walls • Planting Interlocking & Natural Stone Repair dave@writteninstonelandscapes.com
647-545-9561
(16)
IN THE BEACH LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SPECIALISTS
• Weekly & Bi-Weekly Lawn Cutting • Spring Clean-ups • Fertilization & Aeration • Hedge Trimming & Pruning • Seeding & Sodding 647-210-LAWN (5296) www.BeachLawns.ca info@beachlawns.ca (14)
BEACHES RETAINING WALL CO. Stone/Wood walls 647 679 3282
(11.r)
GRASS CUTTING & GARDENING 647 606 0970
freshgreenlawncare (17) @gmail.com
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
BEACH METRO NEWS
23
Beaches Jazz Festival still accepting donations for hospital By Amanda Gibb
THE VIRTUAL Beaches Jazz Festival showcased performances from more than 300 artists across North America last month. from Friday, July 17, to Sunday, July 26. Executive director Lido Chilelli said that they are still collecting numbers for audience views from the online festival, but he can say that the number of views has surpassed 30,000. This year, the Beaches Jazz Fest collected donations for Michael
A Woman’s Touch Landscaping
Garron Hospital and its front line workers. “We’re hoping for people to still make donations because we actually have one more event left. But we’re hoping to raise thousands of dollars for Michael Garron Hospital,” said Chilelli. Originally, Chilelli said the plan was to acknowledge front line workers on stage at East York Civic Centre as a grand finale, but all permits in Toronto for these types of events are cancelled until Sept. 30. Chilelli said that instead, the last event will be the virtual East
MARTIN PETROV
JOSEPH MICHAEL
INTERIOR PAINTING
No job too small 20+ years in the Beaches 416 833 6692
Custom Creative Decks Fences • Restore Garages including Roofing Services; Flats & Shingles
416-322-7692
416-427-3367 • www.awtl.ca
(11)
STONESCAPE 25 yrs experience
Interlocking Stone • Planters Retaining Walls • Steps • Fences Decks • Sodding
416-821-4065
rickscape@hotmail.com
(12)
warren.gamey@yahoo.com
(12r)
NEWBRIGHT PAINTING
NO MESS, NO FUSS, JUST SUPERIOR WORKMANSHIP INTERIOR • EXTERIOR FULLY INSURED, 30 YRS EXPERIENCE, BEACH RESIDENT
CALL SEAN FOR AN ESTIMATE
416-985-8639
newbrightpainting@gmail.com
(11)
Movers
BEACHCOMBERS
“Always on Time and on Budget”
*SUMMER PROMO*
www.thegoodmoves.com Call Hakan: 416 899-3980 (14)
STUDIO 1
CARTAGE & STORAGE 2 Men + Truck $59/hr Office • Apt. Deliveries
Satisfaction guaranteed! Call Jeff today for free estimate. 416-910-6302 beachcombersgc.com info@beachcombersgc.com
Painters
Larry’s Painting & Repairs Family owned & operated 26 years in business
BEACH PLUMBING Small Repairs to complete houses Renovations
416-690-3890
PROWAY
PAINTING & DECORATING Interior • Exterior Residential • Commercial Plastering • Drywall
(r)
ONTARIO WATER PLUMBING
Professional Quality Service Repairs-Renovations-Installations MET LIC P18238, BBB A+, WSIB Master Plumber: Franc Zamernik
Mobile: 416-834-8474 Office: 416-757-6537 www.ontariowaterplumbing.com
416.797.6731
(r)
proway.painting@gmail.com
Free Estimates & References Available (20)
SERENITY PAINTING Beach resident with over 30 years exp Interior / Exterior Work Proper Drywall & Plaster Repairs No job too big or small Have the job done right the first time. Referrals & Free Estimates
Steve 647-853-6420
(11)
‘As Promised’ Painting *** Free Estimates *** We stand by our contracts, big or small. Also do Drywall and Plaster Repairs and more
Dianne 416 699 5070
Richard Durocher Interior & Exterior Small to Mid-size jobs (11)
WG PAINTING Local resident w/32 yrs. exp.
INTERIOR PAINTING
All work guaranteed Fully insured • Free estimate
416-322-7692
warren_gamey@yahoo.com (12r)
BEACH HILL
PAINTING
INTERIOR, EXTERIOR QUALITY PAINTING; KITCHEN CABINET REFINISHING & CUSTOM PAINT; STAINING & WATERPROOFING, DECKS & FENCES
25 years • Free estimates
Dave 416 694 4369
Beach resident for 50 years. Discount for seniors and single parent. Lic. Master Plumber • Free estimates Patrick 647-404-7139 patrickj480@gmail.com (6/21)
TOM DAY
Plumbing & Drains All types of plumbing work. Smallest leak - complete bath reno. Internal & external drain excavating. Call the professionals 416-480-0622
(15r)
(19)
PROFESSIONAL PAINTER
647 401 7970
NEIGHBOURHOOD PLUMBING
24 hr. - lic# P1624
dave@beachhillpainting.com (18r)
Cascade Plumbing GTA All Plumbing, camera inspection, power washing, snake drain cleaning, sump pumps, drainage systems, and back water valve installations. Great affordable rates. Fully licensed.
Contact us at 416 602 2128 (11.r)
MASTER PLUMBER
PLUMBER CONTRACTOR Fully licensed & insured. Lic #T94
George: 416-278-7057 or Gabston Reno: 647-342-2872
(12r)
ATLANTIS PLUMBING
& DRAINS Dishwasher & Gas Repairs Heating, Boilers & Radiator Repairs Reno, Repairs - LICENSED
416-265-4558 Cell 416-727-1595
ALL TYPES OF ROOFS
Knob & tube rewiring Service Upgrades
- Shingles & Flats- Repair & Tune ups - Cedar & Slate - Re-roofs & new work
free estimates
*Ask For Photo I.D.*
CARL 647-787-5818
(r)
(18r)
MASTER ELECTRICIAN ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Fully licensed & insured. ECRA/ESA #7008706
MBX ELECTRIC
(10$)
Residential • Commercial - Knob & Tube Wiring - Service Panel Upgrades - Renovations & Alterations (11r)
ROOFING & SIDING? SOLUTION! Flat and Shingle Roofs Re-roofing, Repair Eavestrough, Soffit & Fascia Workmanship Guaranteed
416-910-8033
(11)
ELECTRICIAN
COMPLETE ELECTRICAL SERVICES RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL
416-833-3006
VISA / MC / AMERICAN EXPRESS (4)
416-466-9025
by Kevin
(11)
CUSTOM CARPENTRY IN THE BEACH
30 years experience in interior trim Custom Cabinet design and construction • Decks and Fences
cliffsidecarpenter.blogspot.ca Peter 416 578 3755 Gibsonpeterk@gmail.com (17)
416-999-2333
(11.r)
HEY HANDYMAN
(19)
SERVICES “No Job Too Small”
Complete Kitchen, bathroom & basement. Interior/Exterior Painting & Carpentry. Doors, Windows, Siding, Fences, Decks, Patios
(r)
416-826-3918 John www.mgcunderpinning.com maximumgen@gmail.com MET# B16348
Since 1998
(11.r)
416 988-2589 danielmccaf@gmail.com
(r)
Jack of all Trades HANDYMAN SERVICES
Basements, Kitchens, Bathrooms Fences, Decks, Drywall, Carpentry No job too small. Free estimates. Serving the Beaches for 15 years.
416-278-5328
(13)
JUST DRYWALL AND TAPING Sam Capetanu
416 876-4986
(12)
Classic Restoration & Woodworking 38 Years experience
classicrestoration@outlook.com
(11...)
Restoration & Build
Chimneys, Concrete, and all masonry repairs
416-738-2119
Call Sergio 416 873 9936 (11)
www.jdbuild.ca
(12r)
Air Conditioning & Heating Experts HVAC / Repair / Maintain / Install Residential / Commercial Rental programs now available
416-606-4719 www.canpromechanicalgroup.com
(11.r)
MARCANGELO INTERIORS Marc 416 419 4281
ED GODFREY
“Your basement lowering specialists”
S.A.C Masonry
Drywall, Taping Trim, Tiles, Painting
•NO JOB TOO SMALL• Metro Lic. #B9948
(11.r)
Brick, Block, Stone,
(r)
GODFREY RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS LTD.
416-265-6674
416 759-8878
(12r)
CANPRO MECHANICAL
HANDYMAN Marc Text/Call 416-617-7205
647-771-0227 jeff@heyhandyman.ca www.heyhandyman.ca
Brick • Block • Concrete Steel • Stone www.thestoneporch.com thestoneporch@gmail.com
FURNITURE REFINISHING + REPAIR
SERVICES
15 yrs exp No job too small! Free Quotes, satisfaction guaranteed - Lic & Ins
• Brick / Foundation • Concrete / Stone • Chimney & Parging
Trades
416-524-1124
Call today for free estimate
JDB MASONRY
•PAINTING •STAINING •DRYWALL REPAIR •PARGING •DECK & FENCE BUILD & REPAIR •INTERIOR & EXTERIOR REPAIRS
The Cliffside Carpenter
(17)
Painting, tiling, fencing, drywall, flooring, siding, vanities & much more.
647-857-5656
15% Seniors Discount
by Jim Ferrio
Competitive prices • Satisfaction guaranteed
•CARPENTRY •PLUMBING •ELECTRICAL
(11)
(11)
PLS Masonry offers over 20 years home repairs experience in the GTA
(17)
THE STONE PORCH MASONRY
• chimneys & foundations • parging & tuck pointing • arches, lintels & sills • door & window rough-ins • foundation waterproofing
FLOORING SPECIALIZING IN SANDING & STAINING
CHIMNEY REPAIRS • TUCKPOINTING BRICKWORK • PARGING CONCRETE • INTERLOCKING
Shingle & Flat Specializing in Flat Roofs All Work Guaranteed
(11$)
MASONRY by Daniel
HARDWOOD
416 660 4721
Shingles, Flats Soffit, Eavestroughs, Siding, & Fascia Chimney work. All types of roof repairs.
Fences, Decks, Porches Flooring, Windows, Doors, Trim, etc. Kitchens & Bath • Garage Restoration Serving the Beach for 15 yrs.
SILVERBIRCH
torontoroofingindustries.com (11.r)
(13)
mayfairHEATINGandcooling.com
Maximum General Contracting Inc.
Drywall, Plastering, Taping 18 yrs Experience • Excellent Job Call Mike 416-854-7024 647 833 7024 (12r) Fax 647-341-6104
Call Jim for a free estimate
Steve 416-285-0440 cell 416-605-9510
MAYFAIR HEATING & COOLING
UNDERPINNING & WATERPROOFING
416 694 0906
DUN-RITE
CARPENTRY
YOUR STUCCO
QUALITY HOME IMPROVEMENTS & RENOVATIONS
ROOFING, REPAIRS
Carpenters
Fully Licensed Contractors Guaranteed
TORONTO ROOFING INDUSTRIES LTD.
35 yrs. experience
Big or small we do them all
FOUNDATION
WATERPROOFING/ REPAIR UNDERPINNING
(15r)
BERGERON ROOFING
MASTER
(r)
JIM 647 405 8457 416 691 8457
Met. Lic. B-16-964
ESA/ECRA 7002084
QUALITY WORKMANSHIP CEDAR, DECKS, FENCES INTERIOR, EXTERIOR DESIGN + BUILD Mario 416-690-1315 www.friedrichbuilds.com
416-690-1430 • 416-266-8953 quotes@citywideroofing.ca www.citywideroofing.ca (11$)
Shingles • Flats Roof Repairs • Metal Work Eavestroughing & Siding Waterproofing • Since 1984
416-694-6673
Kevin 647 282 8375
For all your roofing needs In the Beaches since 1974 FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
Gus:
Alan Burke 416-699-4350
Stucco • Moulding Wall Systems
CANADIAN CONTRACTORS
100/200 AMP Service Upgrades • New Wiring New Homes/Additions Lighting Installations Troubleshooting
Lic: 7006786
(r)
Local • Reliable • Professional Servicing the beach for 15 years.
ELECTRICAL WORK
Residential/Commercial
Lic - Insured • Free Estimate
Cell 416 434-2762 Painting - Basement Renos Plaster & Stucco • Interior & Exterior Small Renovation Jobs & Indoor/ Outdoor Spray Painting 35 Yrs Exp • Refs upon request (13) Free Estimates
Maurice (Cell) 647.638.8441
416 467 6735
Doug 416-871-1734 Jeff 647-686-8103
JOHN CLARKE
INDOOR AIR QUALITY
stonehengefoundations.com (r)
CITY WIDE ROOFING
Knob & tube • No job too small
Call Marc 416-910-1235
(r)
Don’t call them, call those roofers
Master Electrician Lic. ESA ECRA #7000314
LTD
416-569-2181
THOSE ROOFERS
(12r)
50 years in the Beach (r)
www.laniganscontracting.ca (19)
George: 416-278-7057 or Gabston Reno: 647-342-2872
416 691-3555
sales@larryspainting.ca www.larryspainting.ca
Roofing & Aluminum
GREEN ISLE ELECTRIC
Cell 416-529-5426
Telephone Systems
An honest family service in the heart of The Beaches
647-529-2972
Plumbers
(r)
Residential, Commercial, Retail, Home Offices Senior Rates
ECRA/ESA#7004508
(15)
Serving Your Community Since 1971
LANIGAN’S
Fault Finding Knob & Tube Rewiring Service upgrades Insurance certificates
ELECTRIC
Cell: 416-543-8254
416-659-7003
www.webuildit.ca
LOCAL ELECTRICIAN
MURPHY
Interior • Exterior Pantelis
Metro lic #B531 • All Work Guaranteed • Free Estimates
Cable & Telephone Wiring
ECRA/ESA LIC#7001069
A Company You Can count on Quality Since 1981
(15)
FAIRNEY & SONS LTD.
Roofers
CEJA ELECTRIC
Master’s Touch Painting
416 953 1775
Foundation Repair/Waterproofing
Electricians
ESA LIC# 7002668
(11).
Garron Hospital and putting on a great presentation, Chilelli said there was also another goal for the festival. “One of the main things we did was that we highlighted all the Beach businesses, that the Beach is alive and to come support local businesses,” he said. Viewers can watch the free festival stream on the Jazz Festival website, Facebook, and Youtube page. For more information or to donate to the hospital, please visit www.beachesjazz.com
WET BASEMENT ?
CARPENTRY
(16)
CELL 416-875-5781
We Don’t cut corners, we cut lines.
(13r)
mapmtoronto@gmail.com
DECLAN O’MEARA 416-698-6183
PAINTING
• Small and Big Moves • All Kinds of Delivery Services incl. cottage country • Junk and Rubbish Removal
416-830-8183
PLUMBING SERVICES
All work guaranteed Fully insured • Free estimate
Services: Gardening, Garden Design, Sodding Over Seeding, Annual flower planting & seasonal containers
was positive. He said the festival increased its national and worldwide audience, and received tremendous support and gratitude from viewers. “People were really excited that we put something together to bring the community together and celebrate what we have and what we’re going to have.” Chilelli said the virtual festival was a great opportunity for musicians to play and be brought front and centre for an audience in an otherwise dark and isolated time. Along with donations to Michael
WG PAINTING Local resident w/32 yrs. exp.
Specializing in OVERGROWN OUT OF CONTROL GARDENS...
York Jam Fest on Saturday, Sept. 19. “We’ll keep fundraising until that date. We’re confident that a lot of people are going to continue viewing the presentation of the virtual Jazz Festival through Facebook and Youtube, and a lot of people will still be contributing,” said Chilelli. Despite the 32nd annual jazz fest taking on the virtual method of presentation this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Chilelli said that the response from the public
marcangelointeriors@hotmail.com (11r)
CJ DRYWALL & PAINTING Professional drywall and plaster work. Renovation and Repair. Very clean. No job too small.
Call C.J. 647 222 5338
JASON THE MASON
(14)
TUCKPOINTING • CHIMNEYS CONCRETE WORK WINDOW CUTOUTS WATERPROOFING REGISTERED & INSURED 416-580-4126 cell (8/21)
24
BEACH METRO NEWS
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
