Beach Metro Community News April 16, 2024

Affordable housing added to Danforth building proposal

By Amarachi Amadike, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

FOLLOWING TORONTO Council’s approval of Councillor Paula Fletcher’s motion to create more affordable housing in her ward last October, Toronto-Danforth is gearing up to introduce 79 new affordable units to the community.

Core Development is expanding a previously approved project at 1111 Danforth Ave. to now include the neighbouring property at 1117 Danforth Ave. – the latter solely comprising affordable units.

“I know Mainstay has been trying to redevelop this site for quite a while, but it’s been very hard,” said Fletcher during a March 27 community consultation meeting.

“And so when this site came up with (Core Development), I got in touch with both Core and Mainstay and said ‘are you interested in joining up?’ And they were.”

According to documents filed with the City of Toronto, the proposed development aims to “in-

crease the amount of rent-gearedto-income and affordable housing, including housing for people living with mental health issues”.

To achieve this, Core Development partnered with Houselink and Mainstay Community Housing (HLMS), the non-profit organization which operates the supportive housing facility that’s currently on site.

Together, they are proposing a 14-storey mixed-use building that replaces the 27 rental units that are currently in the HLMS building on the site at 1117 Danforth Ave. while also adding more density across the entire project for a total of 106 purpose-built units

At the March 27 community consultation meeting, HLMS’s Executive Director Gautam Mukherjee revealed that the organization will act as the developer and keep ownership of the land. Core Development will take charge of the construction.

“We’ll own and operate the build-

Continued on Page 5

Puck for Pazzi hockey tourney in memory of Rick Carreiro set for Ted Reeve Arena on April 28

THE PUCK for Pazzi all-day hockey tournament in honour and memory of local Zamboni driver and area resident Rick Carreiro will take place on Sunday, April 28, at Ted Reeve Arena.

Carreiro died on Jan. 24 of this year after a battle with brain cancer. He was 42 years old and is survived by his partner Michele and sons Preston and Cruz.

Carreiro always loved hockey and was well known in the community as a Zamboni driver at Ted Reeve Arena for the past 20 years. He is remembered by his many friends and family for his humour

and selflessness.

The hockey tournament goes from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Ted Reeve Arena on April 28.

Along with the hockey, there will be a number of fundraising events taking place during the tournament.

Everyone is welcome to drop by and show their support, even if they are not a member of one of the hockey teams taking part.

For more information on the upcoming Puck for Pazzi hockey tournament, please go to the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/PuckForPazzi

The New Horizons Band of Toronto held a concert on Saturday, April 13, to celebrate their new stage floor and lighting system that was made possible by an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant of $20,400. The celebration concert was held in the band’s dedicated space in the Seicho-NoIe building on Victoria Park Avenue. Special guest at the concert was Beaches-East York MPP Mary-Margaret McMahon.

Once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse experience taken in by Beachers

By Alan Shackleton

FROM A seeing the moon-passover-the-sun perspective, last week’s solar eclipse in the

However, though the clouds prevented anyone from seeing the sun being slowly blotted out in the middle of the afternoon as the total

There was a large turnout of residents along the entire Boardwalk out to try and catch a view of the eclipse, and many had congregated near the iconic lifeguard station. It was not too cold though for two

Continued on Page 12

PHOTO: ALAN SHACKLETON

PHOTO: ALAN SHACKLETON

‘Sunset’ took place on the afternoon of Monday, April 8, at the Leuty Lifeguard Station in the Beach as the solar eclipse turned day into night for a few minutes at approximately 3:19 p.m. For more photos, please see Pages 12 and 13.

Familiar Faces

Katya, Caleb and Scout inspire love of reading at The Great Escape Book Store

By Erin Horrocks-Pope

In our charming East Toronto communities, familiar faces intertwine with the essence of comfort and the spirit of our neighbourhoods.

Living in Kingston Road Village was a short but crucial chapter in my life. During those years I encountered faces that became symbolic of the area’s character and charm.

Along with being able to bring the lovely shop dog Scout to work with her, Nosko’s decision to purchase the business in 2011 largely stemmed from a desire to safeguard a cherished local institution. “It’s so rewarding when people come in and tell us how glad they are we’re here,” shared Nosko.

“If I hadn’t bought the business, who knows if the bookstore would have even survived.”

The first two editions of this column introduced individuals who have been part of my life for decades – Siya from Pizzaville on Queen Street East and Tex from Pro League Sports, whose presence contributed significantly to my relationship with the Beach neighbourhood where I grew up.

Today, I’m shifting focus to three faces that, while not part of my own upbringing, have surely been part of others’ daily lives, in addition to contributing to the unique tapestry of local businesses that make up Kingston Road Village.

Scout, a three-year-old mutt with kind, wise eyes, and her human companions, Katya and Caleb, often grace the entrance of The Great Escape Book Store at 957 Kingston Rd. My acquaintance with Scout spans a few years, marked by brief but warm interactions during my strolls past the bookstore.

Though I rarely engaged-

beyond a courteous nod with her humans, as I’m an introvert by nature, Scout’s presence brought me closer to the wonders beyond the threshold.

When I finally stepped into The Great Escape, the ambiance captivated me. It’s a beautifully intimate bookstore beckoning visitors into a world of literary wonder.

Here, I had the pleasure of further acquainting myself with Katya Nosko and Caleb Mitchell. This mother-son duo makes up the heart and soul behind the bookstore. Their vision for Great Escape goes beyond mere commerce, aspiring to emulate a library catering to diverse literary likes and preferences.

Nosko recently shared with me the importance of access to literature, stating, “Every neighbourhood should have a library and a bookstore.”

“Reading gives people comfort and pleasure, and it

a properly functioning society,” said Nosko, her son Mitchell nodding in agreement.

Mitchell, who shares similar values regarding literary access, echoed these sentiments, highlighting their shared value of literature as a unifying power within communities.

The Great Escape’s shelves house treasures ranging from contemporary bestsellers to centuriesold texts. Mitchell proudly showcased antique books, some dating back to the mid1700s, each with a unique story to tell, some with personalized inscriptions of past readers.

“Books are never too precious to look at,” Mitchell commented, stressing the store’s prioritization of accessibility and inclusivity.

As Nosko recounted the store’s half-century evolution, from its origins as Ed’s Book Store to its transformation into The Great Escape in the 1990s under the ownership of Bruce and Marg Ewing, her dedication to preserving this literary haven became apparent.

“People just share our values and know the importance of access to literature,” said Mitchell, with gratitude and pride for what he and his mother contribute to the community through Great Escape.

Reflecting on the community’s relationship with The Great Escape, Nosko and Mitchell attribute the continued success to their loyal customers, who share their values and recognize the importance of access to literature.

If you’re seeking a timeless classic, a contemporary bestseller, or simply the warmth of a welcoming space filled with stories, I invite you to seek Scout out along Kingston Road and step beyond the threshold as I did, embarking on your own literary adventure at The Great Escape Book Store.

— Familiar Faces is an occasional column written by Erin Horrocks-Pope, a lifelong east ender and frequent Beach Metro Community News contributor. If you know a Familiar Face you’d like to see featured in this column, you can reach Erin at erin@beachmetro.com

PHOTO: ERIN HORROCKS-POPE Katya Nosko, Caleb Mitchell and Scout are Familiar Faces at The Great Escape Book Store. can educate them… it’s vital to having

Greek Independence Day Parade held on Danforth Avenue

Toronto’s Greek community marked Greek Independence Day with a parade along Danforth Avenue on the afternoon of Sunday, April 7. The parade saw numerous participants and spectators from across the Greater Toronto Area take part in the event between Donlands and Broadview avenues along the Danforth. The annual parade marks the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire in the early 1800s which ultimately led to Greece’s formation as a independent state. The day is celebrated on March 25, and Toronto’s Greek community usually holds its parade on a Sunday close to that date.

Life in Canada more difficult than expected for family coming from Turkey after earthquake

By Amarachi Amadike, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

UPON ARRIVING at Toronto Pearson International Airport, Fehim Buyukgural believed he had secured a second chance at life for his family.

Together with his wife Özge and two daughters Beren and Bade, he sought refuge in Canada following a devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria on Feb. 6, 2023, which killed more than 50,000 people in various cities including Hatay where the family once had a comfortable life.

“In one minute, we lost everything,” said Buyukgural in an interview with Beach Metro Community News “We lost our jobs, we lost our homes, we lost all our abilities so we had to find a new life.”

Prior to the earthquake, Buyukgural had worked in a bank for 16 years before moving to the private sector to work as a business development manager for various companies – his last job being logistics for a land transportation company as well as a shipping company.

“I was an executive manager there. I was managing almost 50 truck drivers and 20 department employees,” said Buyukgural.

His wife, Ozge, worked in a bank for 20 years where she had acquired executive positions.

“Before the earthquake we had everything we needed,”

said Buyukgural.

Following the traumatic events of February 2023, Buyukgural’s family was forced to live in their car for six days before temporarily staying with relatives while they figured out their next move.

They decided that Toronto was the best option due to the number of positive stories they had heard about life in Canada.

“We survived a traumatic experience,” said Buyukgural. “What I expected from Canada when we got here was, first, psychological support. Then someone to show you how to overcome the language barrier. Maybe someone will help you with daycares for the kids while you search for a job.”

However, life in Canada since arriving has proven more difficult than anticipated.

“Things are very different here,” said Buyukgural.

After arriving in Toronto, Buyukgural found it difficult to assimilate into Canadian society due to the TS2023 Canada Earthquake Victim Visa they were issued. Under normal circumstances, applying for a Canadian work permit as a Turkish resident came with a slew of requirements such as financial information, sponsorship information from a potential employer, and language test scores.

However, due to the uprooting of the lives of many people in Turkey and Syria, the Canadian government, in

a gesture of kindness, issued TS2023 visas which exempted a lot of the requirements in an effort to take them out of their dire situations quickly.

Although receiving this “special visa” was expected to make transitioning into Canadian life easier, it has, ironically, made things more complicated for Buyukgural and his family.

“We went to newcomer centres – like the YMCA – to find any settlement opportunities. But, everytime, they ask us ‘What’s your situation?’”

Discovering the Buyukgurals are work permit holders, the newcomer centres have repeatedly denied them access to help as these services – like access to language assistance – are reserved for people with refugee status.

This policy left the family stuck between a rock and a hard place as natural disasters don’t grant people refugee status because “they believe you can find other cities to live in your own country,” said Buyukgural.

However, he said that expecting people to be able to simply find somewhere else in Turkey to reside is an overestimation of his nation’s government which has been sluggish in its response to last year’s disaster.

“It’s been one year and there’s still debris everywhere,” said Buyukgural. “The government doesn’t do anything quickly there. The aid is not sufficient for the people. So we thought

we must try to (move to Canada) for our kids. They can at least have a future in Canada.”

Now, though, Buyukgural feels abandoned by the Canadian system after repeatedly being denied access to newcomer services because of his work permit.

“We felt very lonely here,” said Buyukgural. “We were told (by various newcomer services) to look for help within our community.”

This prompted him to seek out help from the Federation of Canadian Turkish Associations (FCTA) which has assisted them in assimilating into Canadian life.

According to Ali Demircan, an FCTA official and southwest Scarborough resident, more than 20 Turkish immigrants in Canada have taken their own lives in the past year after finding it impossible to overcome the many hurdles they are faced with during their journey to normalcy.

Feed Scarborough Executive Director Suman Roy said he has become quite acquainted with situations like this having heard similar stories from families who frequent his food bank in southwest Scarborough.

“Even with the new refugees that are coming in, it’s taking them three to four months – sometimes five – to get a social insurance number,” said Roy. “If they don’t have a SIN number, forget about getting a job or anything.”

Roy said this has been a major contributor to the exhaustion of Toronto’s shelter system which constantly lacks space. “It is unfortunate that many social service organizations have absolutely no way of helping these people find jobs,” he said.

Roy was also critical of the healthcare system as it pertains to newcomers. He recalled one of his clients who was stuck living on the streets of Toronto while being pregnant. This individual, said Roy, eventually fell sick due to her circumstances and lost the baby in a hospital.

Dealing with the loss of her unborn child and nowhere to go, she was then “presented a huge bill from the hospital, and she was liv-

PHOTO: JONAH KANE

The Buyukgural family came to Canada hoping for a chance at a better life after the devastation of their community as a result of the February 2023 earthquake in Turkey.

Houselink and Mainstay to operate affordable units

‘Affordable’ from Page 1 ing that’s created here,” said Mukherjee. “So it will be a fully non-profit project all the way through.”

The proposal is attached to a demolition application as the current HLMS building will be torn down and rebuilt to seamlessly fit the design of the adjacent proposal at 1111 Danforth Ave.

“Our current building here is quite aged,” said Mukherjee. “We’ve been operating 1117 Danforth Ave. for just over 20 years. The building itself is much older.”

The building, said Mukherjee, lacks an elevator and amenities such as air conditioning. The new development, on the other hand, aims to address these issues.

“Accessibility is a very significant issue, both in the city and for Houselink and Mainstay,” said Mukherjee. “Creating buildings that are accessible for people who can’t manage stairs, as an example, is very important to us.”

The proposal incorporates

“architectural elements that will serve to complement streetscape and the existing heritage façade” of the adjacent project (1111 Danforth Ave.). The site is home to the former Trull Funeral Home and St. Catherine of Siena Church. The facade of the funeral home will remain.

According to Fletcher, it will be constructed using the same model as the Riverdale Co-op (685 Queen Street E) which renovated the existing units while creating an additional 17 new units, for a total of 26 units.

Although pledging only five parking spaces, the building will include 19 studio units, 50 one-bedroom units, 28 two-bedroom units, and 9 three-bedroom units. There is a total proposed gross floor area of 7,027.50 square metres. A total of 63 square metres will be reserved for commercial use while the remaining 6,964.60 square metres will be affordable residential units.

Although most praise the proposal for its focus on

housing affordability, one point of contention during the March 27 consultation meeting was the scarcity of parking spaces as only five are proposed for a building with 106 units.

“(I recognize) that transit is available, but I think people are wondering if five parking spaces is going to be enough, especially if there are staff from Mainstay who are making use of that for deliveries or whatever,” said area resident Susan McMurray.

However, officials said there are no longer required minimum parking spaces by the City of Toronto, “except for business spots and accessible spaces”.

The developers instead opted to provide 106 bicycle parking spots for tenants.

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

Canadian journey an uphill battle

‘Life’ from Page 4

ing on the side of the road.”

“It’s just heartbreaking what’s happening,” said Roy. “And I completely disagree with all three levels of government because yes we have an influx of refugees but our policies are not geared towards supporting them.”

Buyukgural said he too has felt the impact of Canada’s lack of healthcare for newcomers.

“The biggest challenge we had faced was accessing education and healthcare,” said Buyukgural.

“It was incredibly difficult and almost impossible. Some people have healthcare when they land in the airport. But they didn’t give this to us. Just the chance to apply for a work permit.”

Although Buyukgural is appreciative of the opportunity to begin a new life here in Toronto, he told Beach Metro Community News that not granting his struggling family healthcare has further strained their finances.

Soon after enrolling in school, Fehim and Özge’s youngest daughter fractured her arm while playing on the monkeybars – a situation that required a multitude of x-rays and trips to the fracture clinic.

They were then sent invoices that amounted to about $3,000 which was “unpayable” for the struggling newcomers.

“It was shocking, believe me,” said Buyukgural. “I

don’t know what to do because we have a five year old. We are struggling for a very basic thing in this country with its healthcare system. When it happens to you, you don’t care. But when it happens to your kid, it really deeply saddens you.”

Although healthcare and education were his biggest hurdles, finding a home proved to be yet another harrowing experience for the Buyukgural family as no landlords were willing to take them in due to a lack of employment.

“At first we got help staying with some friends for a while, then we had to go to an Airbnb for 45 days,” said Buyukgural. “That was a huge loss for us.”

When they finally received their work permit, they were able to find a landlord that would help them.

However, they were asked to pay a whole year of rent up-front. For a family looking to start a new life from scratch, this was a major financial blow.

“All the landlords needed three months of paystub, credit score, and other things that are impossible for us because of this special visa,” said Buyukgural.

He said that although the system has been difficult to navigate, the community has embraced his family, helping him find temporary side gigs as well as finding his elder daughter a spot on a basketball team – something that is very important to the family.

On many occasions, they were fortunate enough to receive assistance from St. Pius Catholic Church Food Bank and the Bloor West Food Bank which has helped keep the family afloat.

However, as it stands, their journey to stability is still an uphill battle.

“After three years, what’s going to happen to us?” said Buyukgural.

“All our efforts should hopefully carry us to permanent residency. We need this very badly.”

Buyukgural is hopeful that his family will eventually be accepted into Canadian society.

But he urges officials to take necessary steps to develop policies that will help those who might one day be in the same position as them.

“Most importantly, they should be issued work permits and given healthcare cards at the airport,” said Buyukgural.

Just over a year ago, the Government of Canada announced that they have been processing temporary and permanent residence applications from those affected “on a priority basis.”

According to the March 18, 2023, press release, the federal government said steps are being taken to make it easier for Turkish and Syrian nationals already in Canada to extend their stay.

Unfortunately, no major steps have been taken to ease their lives upon being granted those extensions.

Tips to help make spring decluttering easier

chunks helps ease any overwhelming thoughts of tackling your entire home.

Feeling the urge to kickstart your spring decluttering?

Roll up your sleeves, crank up some upbeat music, and dive into clearing your clutter!

Transform your home using these professional tips and strategies.

Tackle One Area at a Time -- Begin by focusing on one specific area, such as an overflowing closet or cluttered kitchen. Breaking down the process into manageable

Start with the space that bothers you the most, such as your entryway, which might be congested with shoes and coats. By concentrating on one area at a time, you will be less likely to get distracted and you’ll maintain steady progress.

Categorize First --Sorting your belongings into categories can significantly enhance your productivity. We’ve observed that many of our clients skip this crucial step, which can prolong the decluttering process and lead to decision fatigue.

Grouping items into categories

allows you to make bulk decisions, avoiding the tedious process of deciding item by item. For example, gathering all your candles to decide which ones to keep is more efficient than assessing each candle individually in different parts of your home. This approach not only saves time but also gives you better results.

Improve Your Storage -- Before buying new storage solutions, fully declutter an area to determine what you actually need. You might find you can repurpose bins and baskets which saves you from having to invest in expensive storage products.

Aim to maximize every inch of available space, especially if your

home is smaller and storage is limited. Additionally, older homes present challenges with minimal closet space and tight kitchens. Consider smarter storage solutions, such as drawer dividers for kitchen essentials and dividers to section your folded clothes, socks and accessories. Investing in larger shelving units can optimize storage capacity in areas like your basement or garage.

Switch Up Seasonal Items --

Adapting your storage for seasonal changes is a smart approach. As the weather warms up, store bulky items like jackets and boots out of sight. Keep accessories like scarves and gloves in labeled clear bins. Rotate your seasonal items

to make room for what you’re currently using and create breathing space. A seasonal switch up is a simple way to help your home feel lighter and more spacious creating a greater sense of calm.

Transform Your Home -- Harness the above strategies to reset your home this spring. Unsure where to begin or lacking the time or motivation to dive in? If the thought of someone doing it for you is appealing, we are here to help.

-- In the Beach community for 15 years, Emilie Glockner is the owner of White Space Organized. Find out more about services and rates at www.WhiteSpaceOrganized.com

Queen and Lee plan must respect area’s heritage

Having worked in the architectural field and attended various hearings, one thing I can say is “never trust a rendering”, because the image can be manipulated to show whatever the developer wishes.

When the condo on the northeast corner of Queen Street East and Woodbine Avenue was proposed (1884 Queen St. E.), there were renderings showing the condo and the fire hall beside it. But in reality, this assumed the building on the southeast corner didn’t exist.

There are bigger questions with the new condo for 2040 Queen St. E. (Foodland). The building does exceed the angular planes in the guidelines, and the guidelines call for the facades to be broken up to look like several smaller building instead of one bigger uniform building, to maintain the scale and diversity of the streetscape.

Sadly, the planners at City Hall ignore most of the more subjective parts of the guidelines, so the new condo behind Murphy’s Law also looks like a single uniform large building with the heritage bank on the corner looking tacked on.

The biggest problem is that 2040 Queen has heritage elements that will be lost when the existing building is demolished – the bas reliefs under the second floor windows, and the interior tin ceiling and cast iron columns, which should be preserved.

Our last two councillors have done nothing to protect heritage on Queen Street East – no heritage survey was done alongside the Visioning Study, unlike on Ossington, and the heritage district application has been stalled since 2013. The library and fire hall in the Beach are only listed and not registered, and we could lose the view of the fire hall from the east unless more is done.

At least Queen has some protection –

Kingston Road west of Victoria Park Avenue will be impacted by changes now under consideration, since it was never studied.

The risk on Queen and other avenues is that they will look like any other commercial main street in the city or the province, with new buildings that ignore the existing context and character.

Many of these decisions are made by city staff at the “site plan” stage of approval, which excludes citizens. The bizarre false second floor of the LCBO built a decade ago on Queen is an example.

What makes Queen and other streets vital is narrow storefronts and variety, including protecting heritage.

I call on Crombie REIT, the owner of 2040 Queen, to preserve the existing building and work with the community to develop a building that respects heritage and is more fitting at the intersection that is considered to be the heart of the Beach.

Brian Graff

Cleaning up Queen Street East should be top priority

Re: ‘Beach GLOW aims to brighten up Queen Street East,’, April 2, Beach Metro Community News.

As a local resident for many years, I have been saddened by the increasing garbage, cigarette butts and overflowing garbage bins along Queen Street East in the Beach, not to mention all the tree coffins housing sick or dead tree stumps.

The street and sidewalks have not been properly maintained and swept for several years.

So it baffles me why The Beach BIA would not choose to clean up Queen before they choose other projects.

Please, please BIA and Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford -- help clean up Queen Street East. I would also call on local businesses and community members to do their part as well.

Our neighbourhood attracts tourists as well as many Torontonians, so let’s welcome them with a tidy street first and foremost.

Sharon Barr

Beach Memories

Historic Walking tour along Danforth Avenue set for April 27

GEnE DomaGala Beach Memories

On Saturday, April 27, I will be leading an Historic Walking Tour on the Danforth. It will start on the northwest corner of Woodbine and Danforth avenues at 1 p.m., and everyone is welcome to attend.

We will head east on Danforth Avenue and the walk will end at Dawes Road.

The Danforth, contrary to popular belief, was not built by the American road builder Asa Danforth. In fact, Mr. Danforth did build a major road nearly 230 years ago and it was not named after him.

On our walk we will see what actually happened and where the name Danforth Avenue came from.

Danforth Avenue is one of the streets in Toronto for a number of reasons such as the bridge over the Don Valley that connects west part of the city with the eastern section.

Along with learning about Danforth Avenue (and its name) we will also see a number of historical sights and many

of the “old” major entertainment spots such as the former movie theatres. We’ll also see some of the old hotels, watering holes or beverage rooms that some participants might remember.

We’ll note some of the historic houses of worship along the way, and also stop at a spot that used to have a race track for horses. The 1868 Queen’s Plate was held there. It was called Newmarket Race Course and was north of the Danforth in the area of Oak Park and Chisholm avenues. There will be other historic sights to see and stories on the walk, so I hope to see you there.

Historically yours!

Gratitude 10 Walk-a-Thon supports cancer research

THE GRATITUDE 10 Walk-a-Thon in support of brain cancer research will take place in the Beach on Sunday, April 28.

The walk is being organized by Beach resident Jane Brean and will help raise funds for brain cancer research at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto.

“This year, we host our first walka-thon. Gather your family, friends and colleagues to form your very own team,” said Brean on the Gratitude 10 website. “Walk the official wheelchairaccessible five-kilometre route, try the ambitious DIY 10 km run, or move your

body from afar with the Gratitude 10 2024 playlist. In the spirit of togetherness, we have a way for everyone to participate, while allowing you to set your own physical and fundraising goals.”

In past fundraising efforts, Gratitude 10 has raised more than $400,000 towards researching Glioma, an incurable form of brain cancer.

“As many of you know, this is a personal cause for me. I was diagnosed with Glioma on Nov. 10, 2015,” said Brean. “This fundraising, and more importantly, the Gratitude 10 community has brought new meaning to an unexpect-

edly altered life.”

Teams taking part in the April 28 walk-a-thon can check in at the Balmy Beach Club, 360 Lake Front, between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m. The walk-a-thon starts at 9:30 a.m. along the Boardwalk. it will be followed by food, an auction, arts performances and other activities at the Balmy Beach Club from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

For more info and to register, go to https://secure3.convio.net/smh/site/TR/Events/ FundraiseYourWayDIY?company_ id=2398&pg=company&fr_id=2122

Real Estate Starts Here

“They are experienced, professional, friendly and they feel like part of the family now. They have consistently gone beyond to facilitate the buying or selling of our homes.”

“Their mentorship, knowledge, honesty, and hard work ethic were very much respected and appreciated. They made a very smooth process of one of the biggest decisions of my life.”

“Their knowledge of the housing market and professionalism is bar none.

Nicer and more genuine and sincere people could not be found to work with and we are so very grateful to them.” -

Community Calendar

APRIL 17-27: Don Valley Art Club Spring Show and Sale at the Riverdale HUB, 1326 Gerrard St. E. See 70 original works of art in a variety of media. Spring Awards Show Reception is April 20 from 2-4 p.m. Gallery hours TuesdaySaturday 12-5 p.m. Info: www.donvalleyartclub.com

APRIL 20: Acoustic Harvest presents Boreal at St. Paul’s United Church, 200 McIntosh St., 8 p.m. Tickets $35 advance, $40 at the door, under 16 free. Tickets and info: www.acousticharvest.ca

APRIL 20: Bridge Pub Crawl. Friendly duplicate bridge, rotating through three pubs on Queen St. E. in the Beach. Info: 416-987-1019 or https:// www.beachbridgepubcrawl.wixsite.com/bbpc

APRIL 20: Toronto Beach Chorale and music director Mervin W. Fick present Mozart Requiem, including Ave Maria and Veni Sanctus Spiritus, and Salieri’s Coronation Te Deum, at Knox Presbyterian Church, 630 Spadina Ave., 7:30 p.m. Tickets: general $30, youth $15, at www.torontobeachchorale.com

APRIL 20: Earth Day Celebration at St. Aidan’s in the Beach, 2423 Queen St. E., 1-3 p.m. Stories, crafts, and activities for children and all ages.

APRIL 22: A Senior Moment Ladies’ Luncheon at The Outrigger, 2232 Queen St. E., 1:30 p.m. To R.S.V.P., please text Colleen 647-829-8042

APRIL 24: Beach and East Toronto Historical Society meeting at the Beaches Sandbox, 2181 Queen St. E., 7-8:15 p.m. Guest speaker, archaeologist Dena Doroszenko, will talk about new discoveries at the Ashbridge Estate. Info: www.tbeths.com

APRIL 27: Spring Fling with special guest JUNOnominated Barbra Lica, 140 Wineva Ave., 7 p.m. The Beach United Church Choir presents an evening of music, refreshments and community fellowship to welcome in the spring season. $40/Adult, $15/Child. Info: www.beachunitedchurch.com

APRIL 27: Historical Walk with Gene Domagala, 1 p.m. This Danforth Avenue walk begins at the northwest corner of Danforth and Woodbine Ave.

APRIL 28: Glen Stewart Ravine Clean Up, 10 a.m.-12 noon. Meet at the Beech Ave. entrance. Please bring gloves and dress to get dirty. Bags and treats will be supplied. Info: friendsofglenstewartravine@gmail.com

MAY 4: EcoFair at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Featuring eco-friendly vendors, games and activities for all ages, tasty food and drinks, and informative speakers! Free entry. Info: www.beachunitedchurch.com

MAY 4: Jazz & Reflection with Beachside Brass at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., 4:30 p.m. Featuring local band Beachside Brass as they present a fun show filled with jazz, pop, funk, soul and more. Get ready to clap your hands, move your feet, and head on down to Bourbon Street! Pay-whatyou-can. Info: www.beachunitedchurch.com

MAY 4, 25, JUNE 1: “I Love to SING!” Vocal Arts and Performance Program at The Redwood Theatre, 1298 Gerrard St. E., 1-3 p.m. Youth 10-17 are welcome. Free! Students will sing and learn together in a fun and welcoming environment - no previous singing experience or training necessary. The educators are amongst the most celebrated vocal coaches in Canada. Presented by SING! The Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival. Register at https://singtoronto.com/i-love-to-sing

MAY 5: Hymn Sing presented by the choir of Kingston Road United Church, 975 Kingston Rd., 2 p.m. Anyone can select a hymn to be sung by contributing $10 to Our Roof Fund!

MAY 5: Kids Help Phone’s BMO Walk so Kids Can Talk at Ashbridges Bay Park, 1561 Lakeshore Blvd. E., 8 a.m. registration opens, 10 a.m. start. This 5 km family-friendly event is stroller and wheelchair accessible and pet-friendly.

MAY 11: Acoustic Harvest presents the annual Healing Garden Fundraiser featuring Stephen Fearing at St. Paul’s United Church, 200 McIntosh St., 8 p.m. This is our annual fundraising concert for maintenance of the healing garden of solace for cancer patients at the MacKenzie Health Foundation in Richmond Hill. Tickets and info: www.acousticharvest.ca

•Apr 29: Adult Crafternoon: Macrame Rope Rainbows, 2-3 p.m. Drop by to craft and socialize with community members. Work on the craft provided or bring your own craft to work on. Register in branch: 416-393-7717

RCL TODMORDEN Br. 10, 1083 Pape Ave. •April 19: Bingo, 6:30 p.m. followed by David Wildsmith Trio from 8 p.m. to closing •April 27: Down East Jiggs Dinner with the band Tim Kennedy and the Roadhouse Boys. $30 per person, doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner is served around 6:30 p.m., and the band will play from 8 p.m. to closing. Tickets will be available from the bar or by phoning the branch at 416-425-3070 to reserve tickets, however the deadline for tickets or reservations is Friday, April 19th and all reserved tickets must be paid in full by April 23.

COUNCILLOR FLETCHER’S COMMUNITY COMPOST DAYS •April 20: Phin Park, 7 a.m.; Monarch Park, 8 a.m.; Kempton Howard Park, 9 a.m.; Jimmie Simpson Park, 12 p.m. •April 21: Greenwood Park, 7 a.m.; Riverdale Park, 9 a.m. Info: www.councillorpaulafletcher.ca

COUNCILLOR FLETCHER’S COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENT DAY at Dieppe Park, 455 Cosburn Ave., May 18, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: www.councillorpaulafletcher.ca/spring2024_environment_day

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

GERRARD ASHDALE LIBRARY 100TH ANNIVERSARY Celebration at the branch, 1432 Gerrard St. E. •May 11: ‘How GE Came to Be’ historical talk by local historian Joanne Doucette, 3-4 p.m. •May 15 (the actual 100th anniversary date): Unveiling of the 100th anniversary history plaque for the branch, and cake, 4-5 p.m. Info: 416-393-7717

BEACH INTERFAITH OUTREACH FELLOWSHIP

LUNCHES for adults in the community, 11 a.m. •Mondays at Corpus Christi Church (16 Lockwood Rd.) •Tuesdays – alternating locations: St. Nicholas Anglican Church (1512 Kingston Rd.), April 16, 30, May 14, 28, etc.; St. Aidan’s Anglican Church, (2423 Queen St. E), April 23, May 7, 21, June 4, etc. •Wednesdays at Beaches Hebrew Institute (109 Kenilworth Ave.). No lunches April 17 & 24. •Thursdays at Beach United Church (140 Wineva Ave.) •Fridays at Kingston Road United Church (975 Kingston Rd.). Lunch format may vary from site to site. Last day of program this year is Friday, May 17. Info: 416-691-6869

MEDITATIONS FOR WORLD PEACE at Atisha Buddhist Centre, 1823 Gerrard St. E. (corner of Bellhaven and Gerrard), Sundays 10-11 a.m. (no charge). Info: www.atisha.ca or atisha.centre@gmail.com

GRANT AME CHURCH, 2029 Gerrard St E., invites you to our Worship Service Sundays at 11 am in person or live streamed on ZOOM, YouTube and Facebook. Bible Study Wednesdays 7:00 pm on ZOOM. Please join us in prayer Wednesday mornings at 6:30 amon our prayer line. DialIn No.: 1 587 405 1252 Access Code: 700 6901#. Info: www. grantame.com, grantamechurch@yahoo.ca, 416-690-5169

FALLINGBROOK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 35 Wood Glen Rd. Please join us for worship on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. with the Rev. Angela J. Cluney. Fallingbrook is an affirming congregation and is accessible. All are welcomed! Please join us on Live Stream via Facebook or through our church website at 10:20 a.m. for our Prelude with Music Director Nick Jessome. Weekly Worship services and Special Music selections are posted for viewing on our website. Info: fboffice@rogers.com, 416-699-3084, www.fallingbrookpresbyterianchurch.com

BEACHES PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 65 Glen Manor Drive. (S of Queen). We are an inclusive and affirming congregation in the heart of the Beach with strong commitments to community service and social justice issues. We provide non-perishable food for those in need through our Free Food Pantry located outside the church building. Our Refugee Commitee has been in operation for many years helping families and individuals arrive and start a new life in Canada. Sunday morning services are at 10 a.m. Info: www.beacheschurch.org, 416-6995871. Minister: The Reverend Katherine McCloskey

MAY 11 & 25: Forward Planning Seminars for Seniors and their Supporters at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, 904 Coxwell Ave. (at Cosburn), 2:30-4:30 p.m. The first session will include financial planning for later life; legal planning; planning for living transitions; and planning for after care. The second session deals with confident living (trips, falls, medications etc.); frauds, scams and abuse; fire safety; and developing a record (documents, digital passwords, etc.). All are welcome to attend one or both days and there is no cost.

MAY 25: Artists & Artisans Spring Market at Beaches Presbyterian Church, 65 Glen Manor Drive, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Vendors wishing to participate please contact Debbie Murray by email at debmurray@rogers.com. Tables available to rent starting at $50.

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

GERRARD ASHDALE LIBRARY, 1432 Gerrard St. E.

•Apr 19 & 26: Family Time, 11-11:30 a.m. Join us for stories, songs, instruments, and a craft. For ages 0-5 and their parents/caregivers. •Apr 27: Ashdale Writers Group, 10-11:30 a.m. Meet neighbourhood writers, share your work, and receive feedback in a supportive environment. Held every second Saturday (no meeting May 11).

NEIGHBOURHOOD UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

CONGREGATION, 310 Danforth Ave. Weekly Sunday services begin at 10:30 a.m. We are a vibrant, familyfriendly, and welcoming community of individuals all on the same path. Unitarian Universalism (UU) is a liberal and inclusive religious movement that emphasizes individual spiritual exploration, social justice, and the inherent worth and dignity of every person. With no creed or dogma, it brings people with diverse beliefs together, through shared values. Info: www.nuuc.ca

THE CHURCH OF ST. AIDAN (Anglican), 2423 Queen St. E., welcomes you to join us for Sunday worship at 8:30 a.m. (spoken service) and 10:30 a.m. (with music and children’s and youth programs). •Supper at St. Aidan’s: April 18, 5:45 p.m. •Earth Day Celebration: April 20, 1-3 p.m. Stories, crafts, and activities for children of all ages on the plaza in front of the church (indoors in the event of inclement weather). •Weekly euchre: Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. (enter from the northeast side door, $5 to play, all proceeds go to outreach). Beginners welcome. •Out of the Cold dinners: Mondays, 5-6 p.m. Info: www.staidansinthebeach.com, 416-691-2222

BEACH UNITED CHURCH, 140 Wineva Ave. We offer a combination of in person and YouTube livestream opportunities on Sunday mornings at 10:30am. Services are led by our creative and passionate music director Steven Webb and our minister Rev. Greg Daly. In addition to Sunday services, Beach United Church offers a variety of inspirational music and educational programs open to the entire Beach community. Links and info: beachunitedchurch.com

proudly presented by Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford

Benlamond Avenue home was built by architect Frank Darling in 1873

By David Van Dyke

The photo above shows one of the first houses constructed in East Toronto. This estate (in the centre frame) was built by architect Frank Darling in 1873. It sits on Benlamond Avenue and was the home of Frank’s father, William Stewart Darling. Frank’s other notable designs included much of the University of Toronto and that quaint building that now is the Hockey Hall of Fame!

The archival photograph above was taken in 1990 and really demonstrates how vacant lots tend to be swallowed up quite quickly, here in the Beach. I would like to thank present owners, Sandra and John Furber for providing the information just shared.

If you would like to share an old photo of your house with our readership, why not contact me at gdvandyke61@gmail.com

Archaeologist to speak on new discoveries at the Ashbridge Estate during historical society meeting

DENA DOROSZENKO, senior archaeologist with the Ontario Land Trust, will be the guest speaker at The Beach and East Toronto Historical Society’s meeting next week.

Her presentation on new discoveries at the Ashbridge Estate will take place on Wednesday, April 24, from 7 to 8:15 p.m., at the Beaches Sandbox, 2181 Queen St. E.

The Ashbridge Estate, on the north side of Queen Street East just west of Woodfield Road, contains the land of the original Ashbridge family and a house from 1854.

For more on the April 24 meeting, visit the historical society online at www.tbeths.com

Vendors for June’s Slobberfest sought

THOSE INTERESTED in setting up a booth during the Slobberfest celebrations on the Beach in June, are asked to make contact with the organizers at Community Centre 55

as soon as possible.

This year’s Slobberfest, the celebration of dogs and everything to do with them, will be held on Saturday, June 15, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Leuty Pavilion on the Boardwalk (foot of Lee Avenue).

The event is free to attend and is organized by Community Centre 55.

Slobberfest includes contests such as Best Costume and Fashion Show, Longest & Shortest Tail, Ice Cream & Hot Dog Eating Contests, Best Canine Trick, Dog/Owner Look-a-Like Contest and not to mention the ninth Annual Beagle Wiggle Walkathon!

Vendors showcasing their pet products and services are invited to join in the celebration by setting up a booth. Those interested in having a booth at Slobberfest are asked to contact jennifer@centre55.com for more information.

PHOTO: CITY OF TORONTO ARCHIVES

PHOTO: DAVID VAN DYKE

The Main Menu

Play the fool and enjoy these April dishes

Jan main is an author, cooking instructor and caterer janmainskitchen@ gmail.com

April Fools Day may have been on April 1, but the foolishness lasts longer. We expect the days to be brighter, sunnier and warmer. What did we get – snow, wind and freezing temperatures!

However, our appetites crave the fresh flavours of spring. We are waiting for those first longed-for crops of peas, asparagus, and rhubarb.

These eventualities are around the corner but not yet….

We have to wait just a bit longer with those early April crops: maple syrup and greenhouse specials such as lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes not to mention our old standbys, to keep us going until gardens start flourishing under warmth and sun.

Until then, play the fool and enjoy these April dishes.

Piquant Chicken with Lemon and Capers

Use boneless, skinless

chicken thighs for this recipe as they maintain their juiciness and tenderness during cooking.

However, skin on, bone-in chicken thighs work well in this recipe too, and may be cheaper. The skin may be left on for additional juiciness or removed easily to reduce fat.

The lemon garlic marinade (vinaigrette) adds flavour and tenderizes as the chicken cooks.

Serve with roasted vegetables and potatoes.

8 chicken thighs

1-2 lemons, sliced thinly with skin on 2 tbsp (25 mL) capers

Sea salt and fresh black pepper

Marinade

1/3 cup (75 L) olive oil

1 lemon, grated zest and juice

1 tsp (5 mL) dry leaf tarragon or thyme

1 clove garlic, crushed

Preheat oven to 400 F (200 C). Spray a 9- inch (23 cm) baking dish with baking spray.

Prepare marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, juice, tarragon and garlic

Arrange 8 slices of lemon in baking dish. Place a

chicken thigh on top of each lemon slice and drizzle each with some of the marinade. Place another lemon slice on top of the chicken thighs. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper; distribute capers evenly over top of thighs.

Bake about 35 minutes or until browned and well cooked.

The dish may be prepared ahead, covered and refrigerated ready to cook. Serves 4.

Lemon Roasted Potatoes

This is a great way to add new life to the common potato harvested last fall. This dish can be roasted alongside the chicken.

6-8 potatoes

Sauce

1 cup (250 mL) water

1/2 cup (125mL) fresh lemon juice

1/3 cup (75 mL) olive oil

3 cloves garlic, crushed 1 tsp (5 ml) each, salt, tarragon or oregano and black pepper

Peel potatoes and cut lengthwise into half. Cut each half in 4 equal portions.

Repeat with all potatoes and arrange in a single layer in a 13 x 9- inch (3L) baking

dish sprayed with baking spray.

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together water, lemon juice, garlic, salt, tarragon and pepper. Pour mixture over potatoes.

Bake uncovered at 400 (200 C) for 35 – 40 minutes or until tender.

Serve immediately. Makes 4-6 servings.

Maple Glazed Carrots

Another staple, carrots, inexpensive, well-liked and versatile, take on a spring zest with maple syrup and lemon.

6-8 carrots, peeled and cut into julienne strips (about 3inches x 1/4 inch)

Glaze

1/2 cup (125 mL) maple syrup

2 tbsp (25 mL) butter

2 tbsp (25 ml) lemon juice and water

Again, the carrots can be roasted along with the chicken and potatoes in a baking dish sprayed with baking spray.

Arrange the carrots in an 8 inch/ 22-cm baking dish. In a saucepan bring maple syrup, butter, lemon juice and water to the boil.

Pour over carrots; bake in the oven about 30 – 35 minutes or until tender-crisp.

Note: A few onions, peeled and quartered could be added to the carrots if desired.

Makes 4 servings

Greens with Cucumber and Tomatoes

Make the most of greenhouse lettuce combined with tomatoes, cucumber and sweetened with a maple syrup vinaigrette.

1 headBoston lettuce, washed and dried

1 hot house tomato, chopped

10 slices hot house cucumber

Maple Vinaigrette

2 tbsp (25 mL) vegetable oil

1 tbsp (15 mL) each, lemon juice or white wine vinegar and maple syrup

1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt

Pinch of fresh black pepper

In a mixing bowl, combine chopped tomatoes and sliced cucumber.

Into a jar add lemon juice, maple syrup, salt and pepper. Shake well. Pour over salad to coat vegetables

lightly. Taste.

Add more vinaigrette if necessary. Serves 4.

Oven Roasted Stuffed Apples

An old-fashioned treasure, the apple, is satisfying stuffed with a maple syrup sweetened fruit mixture and baked until tender.

Serve with a dollop of icecream or yogurt.

4 large apples, such as Honey Crisp

Stuffing Mixture

1/4 cup (50 mL) maple syrup

1 tsp (5 mL) cinnamon

2 tbsp (25 mL) softened butter

1/2 cup (250 mL) assorted dried fruits: apricots, raisins, currants, dates, crystallized ginger, finely chopped

Using a sharp paring knife, cut out the apple core. Set apples aside.

In a mixing bowl, beat maple syrup, cinnamon and butter together until creamy.

Stir in the chopped dried fruit.

Stuff each apple with fruit mixture and bake in 400 F (200 C) oven about 30 minutes or until tender.

‘Magic’ of darkness during the day at solar eclipse

‘Once’ from Page 1

groups of local swimmers to take to the waters of the lake as the light disappeared and darkness covered the beach and the water.

The members of both the EndorFins and Ladies of Lake Ontario (LOLO) went in for a plunge just east of the Leuty Lifeguard Station at about 3:20 p.m. and stayed in the water until light started to return a few minutes later.

For Mary (a member of EndorFins), the swim during the eclipse was a powerful experience.

“It was more moving that I thought it would be to be in the water when the darkness came. It was really very emotional,” she said.

Both EndorFins and LOLO usually swim in the mornings, and so in a way the afternoon’s dip was a second sunrise swim.

Members of both groups had gathered by a small fire on the shore to talk about the swim and to speak about some of their personal intentions before hitting the water. Mary said that added to the emotion of the event.

Anna (a member of LOLO) said the swim gave everyone involved a feeling of community and togetherness. The swimmers joined hands in a circle while in the water.

“And do it on a day that was such a special occasion, it does give you the sense and understanding that this was something bigger than us,” she said. “It makes you realize that the small things in life are bigger than the big things.”

“There was a real sense of magic to it,” said Mary.

The solar eclipse saw Toronto experience 99 per cent of totality as the sun was blocked by the moon. In areas like Niagara Falls (in the “Path of Totality) it was a 100 per cent eclipse.

The next total solar eclipse in Ontario will not take place until 2144, so the April 8 event was literally a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone who was gathered to take it in.

PHOTOS: ALAN SHACKLETON

Photo at top of page, daylight turned to darkness by the Leuty Lifeguard Station on Monday, April 8, during the solar eclipse. Photo at left, members of both the EndorFins and Ladies of Lake Ontario (LOLO) went in for a plunge just east of the Leuty Lifeguard Station at about 3:20 p.m. Photo above, Julie, Mercedes, Jennifer and dog Quinn prepare to view the eclipse along the beach. For more photos, please see Page 13.

PHOTO: CORBIN HUCKER

Corbin Hucker took the photo above of the April 8 solar eclipse, showing how the moon began to briefly block the sun.

PHOTOS: KATY MOLYNEUX

Photo above, members of the Molyneux and Van Hoek families look to the skies near the foot of Silver Birch Avenue as they prepared to take in the solar eclipse on the afternoon of Monday, April 8. Photo below, the sky started to darken and the temperature dropped as the eclipse began.

‘New York’ edges ‘Toronto’ to win East York Hockey Association’s Little Stanley Cup championship

IT CAME down to the final minute, but “New York” won the East York Hockey Association’s Little Stanley Cup with a 1-0 victory over “Toronto” in a thrilling championship game on the afternoon of Saturday, April 6.

The Little Stanley Cup is presented to the East York Hockey Association’s house league Pee Wee championship team each year, and has been a tradition since the 1954-55 season.

This year’s East York Hockey Association Little Stanley Cup Day took place at East

York Memorial Arena on Cosburn Avenue.

The championship game was a thriller which saw the New York and Toronto teams battle back and forth until Jamie Yorke scored the game-winning goal with just 18 seconds left in regulation time.

The East York Hockey Association is the only minor hockey league sanctioned by the National Hockey League to use a replica of the “Stanley Cup”. Permission was granted by then NHL President Clarence Campbell.

For more sports, please see Pages 21 and 22

PHOTO: CHRISTIAN HASSE

The ‘New York’ team with the East York Hockey Association’s Little Stanley Cup on Saturday, April 6.

PHOTO: CHRISTIAN HASSE

A Toronto team player (dark blue) and a New York team player (light blue) chase the puck during the East York Hockey Association’s Little Stanley Cup championship game on Saturday, April 6.

Eid-al-Fitr celebrations held in Dentonia Park

Don Valley Art Club Spring Show and Sale set to open this week

THE DON Valley Art Club’s Spring Awards Show and Sale will take place from April 17 until April 27.

The show is taking place at a new location from past years and will be at the Riverdale HUB at 1326 Gerrard St. E.

Opening is at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17, and the show continues until Saturday, April 27, at 5 p.m.

Members of the Don Valley Art Club (DVAC) will be displaying 70 original works of arts over the two floors of the Riverdale HUB gallery during the show.

The Riverdale HUB is developed to inspire social entrepreneurship, drive innovation and community capacity with a focus on emerging immigrant artists, attending to environmental issues.

The show will be open to the public during the Riverdale HUB’s regular hours which are Tuesday through Saturday 12-5 p.m.. Members from the DVAC will be available to assist and answer the questions of those attending the show.

As at past shows, members of the DVAC offer an array of affordable inspiring works of art to brighten home, office or cottage, or to provide a special gift.

For those who cannot attend in person, all the artworks including many more that are not in the gallery show can be viewed online from April 17 until April 27, at www.donvalleyartclub.com/artshowandsale.

The awards for this year’s show will be judged by Kat Honey, a well known contemporary Toronto artist. Kat will be selecting award winning art works in a variety of categories.

Fearless Meat fundraiser supports Beach Metro Community News

Fearless Meat on Kingston Road helped raise $999.70 for Beach Metro Community News during a sale of peameal bacon sandwiches on March 29. On hand for the presentation of the donation were David Brown, owner of Fearless Meat; Susan Legge, publisher of Beach Metro Community News; and staffers from both the restaurant and the newspaper. Brown is encouraging other local businesses to do their part to support local journalism and Beach Metro Community News. Thanks to the more than 250 people who came out to enjoy the Beach Metro Special, the staff at Fearless Meat, and all of our advertisers and supporters who make this newspaper possible. To become a Supporter of Beach Metro Community News, please go to www.beachmetro.com/support

PHOTO: ALAN SHACKLETON

Thousands gathered at Dentonia Park in East Toronto on the morning of Wednesday, April 10, to celebrate Eid-al-Fitr. The celebration marked the end of the holy month of Ramadan which is observed by Muslims around the world. Eid-al-Fitr signifies the end of the month of fasting, reflection and helping others.

On The Wild Side

Spring turns thoughts to tulip trees and pollinators

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

Spring is here, which means it’s time for the first flowers to start showing. I think many of us will think of tulips as the iconic spring flower, but did you know that tulips also grow on trees?

Well, it’s not that they grow on trees, exactly, it’s that they ARE a type of tree. Maybe that’s confusing. Let’s start again: One of the most beautiful trees I’ve seen, at least around the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), is the tulip tree (Liriodendron Tulipifera).

You might be living near a tulip tree and not even know it, as it takes almost 15 years for them to mature, bud, and bloom. After that, the tree should produce them every year. As you can guess, this tree has flowers (see the photos) that resemble the flower we’re all more familiar with.

The trees bloom during the spring and summer, and they come in an amazing array of greens, oranges,

and yellows. In the middle of the flower, you’ll find stamen that look remarkably like french fries. While many trees have their blooms higher up, my friend Livaline has one that flowers at eye level, which is perfect for photography.

If you’re wondering why I’m writing a story about a tree, instead of one of our wildlife neighbours as usual, I’ve had butterflies and pollination on the brain lately.

I’ve recently been invited to visit a kindergarten classroom, at one of my granddaughter’s schools, and talk to them about the life cycle, metamorphosis, diet, etc…, of caterpillars, moths, and butterflies.

While preparing for the presentation, I came across some information on tulip trees, and how they serve as an important pollinator to some of the butterflies the kindergarteners may be able to hatch.

While the tree’s nearabundant nectar and pollen also attracts hummingbirds, various species of bees, and other local pollinators, butterflies, and moths, notably the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and the Promethea Silky Moth, also use the trees for

laying their eggs; the leaves are a perfect meal for their caterpillars.

If you ever see me standing by a tulip tree, without my camera in hand, odds are high that I’m inspecting the leaves looking for caterpillars and eggs.

On a different note, if you’re out and about on a spring hike, keep an eye out for a Jack in the Pulpit, (Arisaema triphyllum), which I’ve just recently become aware of myself. The Jack is a perennial plant, native to the woodlands of Eastern North America, it can be up to two feet tall, and it loves to grow in shady spots.

While highly toxic to us, (if ingested), they also attract a variety of pollinators. Two facts that make them notable, are that they have the ability to change their sex over the course of their 100-year life span! One season the plant may produce male flowers, but the next season they could grow female ones. Isn’t nature fantastic?

Enjoy the warmer air, and make sure you look not only up for birds, but down and around for some of our flowers, trees, and other amazing plants.

PHOTO: ANN BROKELMAN

Tulip trees bloom during the spring and summer, and provide a perfect meal for local pollinators.

PHOTO: ANN BROKELMAN

An Eastern Tiger Swallowtail caterpillar eats a tulip tree leaf.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

COUNSELLING

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

www.energyawakening.com

Spiritual Counselling

William F. Deneault Chartered Accountant

• Corporate & Personal Tax

• Specializing in small

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

Melani Norman CPA, CMA

Patrick Ruiz

Corporation

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

Dogs, cats, pocket pets. Housecalls available.

KATHRYN WRIGHT

Barrister & Solicitor Family Law & Mediation 416-699-8848 2239 Queen Street East www.kathrynwrightlaw.com kathrynwrightlaw@gmail.com

Administration/Advice to Estate Trustees

416-767-CASS (2277) x 207 416-795-4899 (cell) 416-491-0273 (fax) garry@garrycass.com

Glover & Associates

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

QUINN Family Law

Shelley C.

ashbridgeshealth.janeapp.com 1522 Queen St. E. 416-465-5575 www.ashbridgeshealth.ca

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

Black Lives Here

Dr. Sheila Colla, entomologist, professor and social justice champion, takes on cancer battle

mimi

liliEfElDt

mimi@missfit.ca

Throughout history, great minds have stated our need for justice, there are endless quotes on the subject. Though questions have been asked, and fingers have been pointed, no one seems to be able to resolve the imbalance of justice once and for all.

I met with Dr. Sheila Colla, an entomologist, professor, researcher, mother, and champion of social justice over Zoom a few weeks ago. Our discussion made me reflect on why some people are driven towards activism, though most are not, and some use their voices to boast their own narrative, only to end up drowning out the ones that need to be heard (i.e. performative).

Sheila’s mother came to Canada as an eight-year-old girl from Trinidad and her father arrived from Italy when he was 28 years old to study English. Sheila grew up in Scarborough and North York with her three siblings.

Her parents were teachers who worked extra jobs to make life comfortable for their family, while Sheila the ever-studious child focused on science and music. Her interest in sciences lead to her PhD in Biology, which eventually brought her to her career as a Conservation Scientist whose Pollinator Research Lab can be found at York University where she is a professor.

like the difference between a bee and a wasp kind of later in life and go on to write books about them!”

As a woman working in the field of entomology, Sheila is certainly a minority which comes with its own set of injustices. “I’m often the only woman of colour in the room. Especially with entomology, insects tend to be a mostly male dominated field of study. . .

When I asked Sheila how she arrived at bee conservation she said, “as a kid growing up in Toronto with immigrant parents, I didn’t really have much of a camping or cottaging upbringing.

about it. So, they are making these spaces where they cannot be critiqued in their actions. I see that a lot on Facebook groups. . .

“There was another local group, where I forget what happened, some sort of hate crime against Muslims and the admin was trying to set up something about white people and brown people walking to the subway together for safety. And I was like, this a ‘white saviour’ type of solution and doesn’t get to the problem and then he blocked me and deleted me from the group for that comment. I was just pointing out that it’s not a good idea…”

The idea that there is no room for questioning or discussing potential solutions exposes the much talked about but often denied white fragility. No one wants to hear it, but it’s not good enough that your “heart was in the right place” if your actions still negatively impact others.

We talk about listening and raising the voices of marginalized people, but when push comes to shove and egos are tested the threat of exposure becomes too high and the voices of BIPOC are muted, blocked, and deleted.

I thought those annoying wasps trying to get my hamburger at the end of the summer were bees until my early 20s. It was only through the research placements and undergrad trips that I learned more about biodiversity and decided to make it my career.

“I have no idea what kinds of backgrounds people have and whether they’ve been taught about the diversity and importance of insects to our ecosystems and food systems. I think it helps people to know that even someone like me can learn something

“Lots of times, even though I’ve published things or been the only person to have published on certain things, a man would be chosen to do an interview or be taken more seriously than me. I run into that kind of thing a lot. Just not being taken seriously despite the standard metrics of academia, publishing in highranking journals, giving conference talks and that kind of thing.”

But Sheila is no wallflower. Once she reached tenure, she became more confident in speaking out about the lack of equality in her field. She actively uses her voice on Twitter (X) where she has close to 10,000 followers and she said, “For the Society of Conservation Biology (SCBNA), I’m on the Equity Committee, Board of Directors, that’s for my field in general so I can make change in that way.”

But the changes needed

in her field and in our everyday interactions seem endless and often times disheartening. “At York we had a white man who was invited to talk about equity in science. EDI in science in Canada… I asked the person who invited that person why they invited them instead of you know, this Black woman who’s doing very similar work? Or I could give a million examples of other people who I would’ve picked. Other people who should’ve been invited instead, especially for paid presentations.”

When I asked what the response was, she said, “That person said she believed that men would only listen to other men. Which I don’t necessarily buy as a good reason for inviting men to talk about equity.”

Life outside of her science world is no less riddled with societal challenges.

She has co-run one of the largest east end parenting groups on Facebook. “I’ve seen the power in other groups with like one or two admin who almost in all cases are white. They think that the groups are just about the east end but things like Palestine come up, anti-Black racism comes up, and they don’t know what to do so their solution is to delete and block the people who are talking

Sheila, however, is determined and resilient. She will not accept the status quo. In her lab and in her life outside of it, Sheila speaks out to defend, support and elevate the growth of others, especially those who are unaccustomed to having advocates.

Which is why her staff and students, almost exclusively women and women of colour want to work with her. She does this because it matters to her to support people, even at the risk of her research work being as she said, “not (always) as productive as other professors.”

“I make my beliefs and politics so open and obvious that I attract those kinds of students (students who might need more support for various reasons); I generally don’t say no. It’s just kind of how it generally works out and I’m OK with that. I don’t train a lot of men. I’m an entomologist, I work with insects, so that means I’m changing the face of what it means to be an entomologist, so it won’t be the same as what I experienced when I was going through it.”

PHOTO: MIMI LILIEFELDT

Dr. Sheila Colla is an entomologist, professor, researcher, mother, and champion of social justice.

‘Dr. Sheila’ from Page 18

Sheila has long been a champion of others. But now she is in the unfair position of needing help herself.

Approximately six months ago Sheila was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a type of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos. The news is obviously devastating and yet, it has been the opportunity for all those she has built communities with to return the favour. It is these communities that are rallying around her and taking their turn to support her.

When I asked Sheila how she copes with the unfairness of having to go through this illness she answered me honestly: “This is something I’m also working through. Right now, I need to focus on healing and not think too much about this.”

Her amazing friends have set up a Go Fund Me page for Sheila as her treatment may require medical attention that might be out of the scope of our healthcare system or perhaps even be best treated outside the country where costs would not be covered.

If you would like to read more about her and donate, this is the link: www.gofundme.com/f/support-sheila-colla-throughcancer-treatment

This kind of community mindedness and protection is ultimately the kind of world we say we want to live in. One in which we each selflessly work towards true equity and support of others, and in turn we can have the comfort in knowing if our safety or wellness is ever in jeopardy that we can rely on others, and that our social and gov-

‘Right now I need to focus on healing’ Earl Beatty school 100th anniversary event set for May 11

ernment systems will be there for us.

But this takes work and action. We cannot only care about the matters that directly affect us.

People like Sheila use their gifts and advantages to help keep us accountable to each other. The reality is we can’t stop bad things from happening, sometimes good people must face injustice, but hopefully if they must face it, it’s not alone.

As Martin Luther King Jr famously said: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.”

— Mimi Liliefeldt is a Beach resident and business owner. She can be reached at mimi@missfit.ca

EARL BEATTY

and Senior Public School in East York will host its 100th anniversary celebration on Saturday, May 11.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the school which is located at 55 Woodington Ave., north of Danforth Avenue.

Construction began on the school in 1924 and its official opening was held on Oct. 25, 1925, with Admiral David Beatty (the first Earl Beatty) in attendance.

The 100th anniversary will feature decade rooms, an open house at the school with a welcome from the principal, tours, and a contemporary time capsule designed by current students. For more information, contact the school at 416-393-9070.

Junior

DRAGON BOATING IS SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES!

Founded in 2005 by avid dragon boater, Tim MacFarlane, Rusty Dragons Adventures is a non-pro t, recreational organization.

• We have teams practising on different days of the week at Outer Harbour.

• We also run corporate day and birthday party events for 16 to 40 people.

Saturday, April 27 10am - 2pm Beach United Church

Beach Metro Community News

Lucky Volunteers for April 16

Beaches Lacrosse Jammer tourney action

Aquatic Park Sailing Club welcoming new members to ‘cottage-like’ setting Sports

By Jack Skinner

THE AQUATIC Park Sailing Club (APSC) is welcoming local residents to join them for fun on Lake Ontario this spring and summer.

Offering affordable memberships, the APSC is located on the Leslie Street Spit in Tommy Thompson Park.

The club was founded in 1976 when the first boats were put out into the water in a bay of the Leslie Street Spit. Ten years later, in 1986, APSC was formally united into a member-run, self-help, non-profit sailing club.

APSC Commodore Mike Rossiter said that while the club is located in a rustic and naturally sheltered setting with a beach space on the Spit, not many Beach resi-

dents are aware of it.

“I have found that not a lot of Beach residents know about our club and its history, or that memberships are so affordable,” he said.

“We have also made changes to make memberships more open to a wide variety of people.”

People don’t need to own sailboats to join the club, and APSC also has spots for canoes and kayaks including storage.

Members who don’t own a boat can use the 22-foot boats belonging to the APSC “fleet.”

The club’s docks are set up in early April. After most members have launched their boats, race nights are held every Wednesday night starting in May.

AQUATIC PARK SAILING CLUB

Toronto's most tranquil and affordable sailing community

Located on the Leslie Street Spit (Tommy Thompson Park)

Your co�age in the city!

We have room for new keelboat members, fleet boat members, and paddlecra� members (canoes and kayaks) for 2024.

Saturday races are also held throughout the season followed by club dinners and dances with live bands.

“The official start of the season is Sailpast, in early June,” said Rossiter.

“On that day, we have the blessing of the fleet, members sail past and salute the commodore, and everyone enjoys a special dinner. We have a pig roast evening in July, with a live band, and once a month we hold campfire singalongs on our club beach. The natural setting of the park is an incredible place to keep a sailboat, and many members enjoy the privilege of having a ‘floating cottage’ so close to the city,”

For more information, visit www.aquaticpark.com

said Rossiter.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

The Aquatic Park Sailing Club on the Leslie Street Spit is located in a natural setting with a sandy beach and a cottage-like clubhouse.

A Beaches Lacrosse player (white sweater) makes a pass while being challenged by Six Nations players during U17 action at the annual Jammer Classic Field Lacrosse Tournament on the weekend of April 6. Photo at left, a Beaches player heads upfield during the game. Registration for Beaches Lacrosse’s upcoming house league season in both box lacrosse and girls field lacrosse is now open and accepting players. For more information on Beaches Lacrosse and how to register to play, please go to www. beacheslacrosse.com

PHOTOS: ALAN SHACKLETON

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Glen Ames Senior Public School hockey team wins Grade 8 city championship Sports

THE

onship banner.

Glen Ames beat Glenview Senior Public School (from North Toronto) 4-1 in the Toronto District Elementary School Athletic Association (TDESAA) Grade 8 Hockey City Championship game played in late March.

Goals for Glen Ames in the championship game were scored by Max; Jack; Bodhi;

and Jackson. The goalie for Glen Ames in the championship game was Avery.

The Glen Ames team is co-ed and during the regular season they skated to a perfect record of six wins and no losses in TDESAA play.

Glen Ames advanced to the city championship game by beating East Toronto’s Earl Grey Senior Public School 1-0 in the semifinals of the playoffs. The goal scorer for Glen Ames was Jackson.

Along with their regular season matches against other TDESAA teams, Glen Ames also perfected their skills by playing a number of exhibition games again Montreal private schools – winning all three of them. Glen Ames also beat a team from Upper Canada College in an exhibition game this season. Team coaches (and Glen Ames’ teachers) Matt MacKay and Geordie Hill were

very happy with the way every member of the team played this hockey season.

“It’s rare to get a group of students with that much talent throughout the lineup,” said MacKay.

“Although we had stars like Max and Pippa on defence, Jack and Ryder at forward, and Avery in goal, it really was the depth of the team that led to our success.”

MacKay said the team started working hard in November of last year towards its goal of a city championship.

“Right from the get-go the players were eager to work hard in practice. There was a sense that this could be a special season,” he said.

MacKay added that five of the players on this year’s championship team are Grade 7 students, so that bodes well for the success of the team next season as well.

Hill said the season that culminated in the recent city championship was the result of “years of development and dedication” to the hockey program at Glen Ames.

“After an early exit from the playoffs last year, the players and coaching staff approached this season with one goal in mind…a city championship,” said Hill.

“The players were lockedin and focused from the first tryout to the last whistle and kept that goal in mind.”

Hill said excellent leadership on the team came from captain Max, and assistant/ alternate captains Pippa and Hayden. Members of the Grade 8 hockey city champions for 2024 from Glen Ames are Bodhi, Ryder, Jackson, Sean, Hudson, Maddie, Max, Alex, Colin, Ryan, Evan, Jack, James, Mackenzie, Nolan, Jackson, Carter, Hayden, Pippa, Ronin, Avery, Joey, and Blake.

Beaches Spring Sprint hits the Boardwalk

HOCKEY team from Glen Ames Senior Public School in the Beach recently won the Grade 8 city champi-

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Glen Ames Senior Public School recently won the Grade 8 Toronto District Elementary School Athletic Association city hockey championship.

PHOTO: ALAN SHACKLETON

The annual Beaches Spring Sprint took place along the Boardwalk on the morning of Saturday, April 6. This year’s run and walk started at the Leuty Pavilion and saw a large turnout of participants. The Spring Sprint helps raise funds for the Beaches Recreation Centre and has been taking place since 1987. For more

photos from the Spring Sprint, please see Page 24.

Arts & Entertainment

Beach resident Michael Schwartz debuts horror comic Armored

By Chris Zdravko

BEACH RESIDENT Mi-

chael Schwartz is celebrating the recent release of his first comic book, Armored

The book is the first in a series that Schwartz plans to continue with sequels. The comic books are illustrated by Ismael Hernandez.

Schwartz grew up in Cambridge, Ontario, but has lived in the Beach near Kingston and Waverley roads since 2016.

When he attended Galt Collegiate Institute & Vocational School in Cambridge, the school’s mascot was a ghost which he said may have had an influence on Armored.

Growing up, Schwartz loved stories. More particularly, horror stories.

One late night, after his parents allowed him to watch Poltergeist, thinking he would be scared out of watching horror movies again, his love for the genre only grew into an obsession. Schwartz rented scary movies from Blockbuster nonstop.

He believes his upbringing in Cambridge influenced his writing and encouraged his love for movies.

“There was not a whole lot to do except go to the local video store to rent movies,” said Schwartz.

After high school, Schwartz moved to Toronto to take film studies at York University.

Since his graduation from York he has worked in the film industry as a screenwriter, marketer and production manager.

Schwartz has worked with Disney theatrical marketing, where he helped promote Disney movies in Canada, and he also worked with Fox Searchlight Pictures.

“I have been writing feature films consistently since 2016,” he said.

Schwartz was a co-writer with Zina Zaflow for Netflix’s 2017 family/comedy film Gnome Alone which was

based on a story by Robert Moreland. Schwartz also cowrote (with Peter Lepeniotis and Michael Samonek) the 2023 horror/comedy film

Zombie Town based on the R.L Stine book.

Stine read and reviewed Armored, saying he enjoyed it. Schwartz was “blown away” by the praise.

Armored is about an orphaned boy who stumbles across a suit of armour with supernatural properties, possessed by the spirit who wore it before.

Growing up, Schwartz spent time in Germany and he enjoyed running through medieval style castles with his sister, which inspired the setting of where the armour was found in the story.

“I just have a fascination with medieval times,” said Schwartz.

He said the armour in the story represents a barrier, preventing the protagonist from opening up to his new parents.

Schwartz said this is not a reflection of his life. “I had a very good childhood,” he said, noting that it was his dad who took him to comic book stores.

Of the Armored story, he said: “It’s like Aladdin, but what if the genie was a ghost and Aladdin had a suit of armour?”

Schwartz said he came up for the idea of the plot for Armored years ago, but was never sure about how he wanted to adapt the story.

He said he made Armored with 1980s movie tones, similar to Stranger Things

While working in film, Schwartz said comics are his first diversion from screenwriting.

In an unfortunate turn of events, though, Schwartz’s comic book collection that he had been collecting since his childhood was stolen in 2018, save for two boxes. Someone broke into his garage one night and stole every box in sight.

Schwartz said he was “devastated” by the theft. “I

Armored tells the story of a boy who discovers a medieval suit of armour. said to my wife, ‘I don’t think I can ever look at a comic book again.’ It’s heartbreaking to me,” he said.

However, Schwartz said he believes the theft of his comics was an inspiration to create the Armored series.

Eventually, he decided to start collecting comics again. Though Schwartz’s comic book collection has now grown to triple the size of his previous one, he’s still impacted by the theft that took place.

“Please don’t steal other people’s comics. They may not be writers who become inspired to become a comic book writer,” said Schwartz to the comic book thief.

Reflective of his love of comics, Schwartz will be signing copies of Armored first issues on Free Comic Book Day, on Saturday, May 4, at Planet X on Queen Street East in the Beach. The first issues of Armored are expected to hit comic book stores on April 24.

Schwartz said he wanted to be part of the Free Comic Book Day and Armored celebration in the neighbourhood he now calls home with his wife and daughter, nine, and son, five.

During and since university Schwartz had lived in a number of Toronto neighbourhoods before settling in the Beach.

“We are never leaving the Beaches. This is our home for life,” said Schwartz. He encourages children and adults, especially fans of Stranger Things or R.L. Stine, to check out their local comic shop (Planet X at 2227 Queen St. E.) and give Armored a read. Schwartz also invites comic fans to come to Planet X and say hello to him on Free Comic Book Day. For more info on Planet X, please go to www.eplanetx.com

Acoustic Harvest’s The Healing Garden fundraiser to feature Stephen Fearing

THE ACOUSTIC Harvest concert on Saturday, May 11, will be The Healing Garden Fundraiser featuring Stephen Fearing.

The annual concert raises funds for The Healing Garden of Solace for Cancer Patients at the Mackenzie Health Foundation in Richmond Hill.

The concert starts at 8 p.m. at St. Paul’s United Church, 200 McIntosh St., in southwest Scarborough. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.

Along with his solo career, Fearing is a co-founder of the band Blackie and The Ro-

deo Kings along with Colin Linden and Tom Wilson. He is also one half of the duo Fearing and White, with Irish singer Andy White.

Born in Vancouver, but raised in Dublin, Ireland, Fearing has been performing and creating music since the 1980s. Fearing is a Juno Award winner and a Canadian Folk Music Award winner.

Tickets are $35 in advance ($40 at the door).

To order tickets for the May 11 concert, please go to www.acousticharvest.ca/concerts.html

Beaches Spring Sprint brings out runners and walkers

To our dear and valued customers:

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the end of an era for the Carpet Mill. Nearing our 31st year in business, we have had to come to the very di cult decision of closing our doors to make way for the new Carlaw Station. As most in the neighbourhood are aware, Metrolinx is expropriating Riverdale Plaza and the premises must be vacated by May 31, 2024. Therefore, all ooring installation will be completed by the end of May.

We would like to thank each and every one of you that trusted us and gave us the opportunity to work in your homes and businesses over the past three decades. During this time, we have made the nicest acquaintances and secured many friendships. Thank you to the communities of Riverdale, Leslieville, Upper & Lower Beaches, East York, Rosedale, Leaside and beyond. A special thank you to our dedicated sta and installers for their tireless e orts. Without you, we wouldn’t have existed, grown and ourished; our success was achieved via your hard work. Thank you to all who have been a part of our journey; you will sincerely be missed.

Please come visit us this month as all stock is cleared —

Sincerely,

Kathy & Aris Owners/Operators

UP TO 75% OFF!

PHOTO: ALAN SHACKLETON

The annual Beaches Spring Sprint took place along the Boardwalk Saturday, April 6.

Photo at top of page: Walkers set off for their portion of the Spring Sprint.

Photo above: Runners take part in the Beaches Spring Sprint.

Photo at left: Youngsters leave the starting line for the youth portion of the Spring Sprint. This year’s run and walk started at the Leuty Pavilion. The Spring Sprint helps raise funds for the Beaches Recreation Centre and has been taking place since 1987.

PHOTO: ALAN SHACKLETON

PHOTO: CHARMAINE WOODS

Arts & Entertainment

Beacher Mark Battenberg releases new poetry book A Leaf in the Wind

By Yuantong Anita Liu

BEACH MUSICIAN and composer Mark Battenberg recently released his new poetry book A Leaf in the Wind, Poetry Faerie Tales and Meditations for Modern Times, which features his own drawings, layouts and composed music.

“I often write poetry that is themed to my own musical compositions. They are performed together with a narrator who accompanies the musicians at concerts and recitals. I often find poetry is a more expressive medium to present multiple themes in longer epic stories,” said Battenberg in a recent interview with Beach Metro Community News

The book is a volume of poetry Battenberg has written for more than 10 years.

One of Mark’s poems, entitled The Library, was written for a contest held by the Toronto Public Library in response to the City of Toronto’s debate to close down branches throughout the city.

His poem was one of the winners, and Mark was selected to present it to City Council, and speak to the Mayor regarding his concern over the proposed closures.

“That poem received a lot of attention, and I decided to put it together with my other work to create this collection called A Leaf in the Wind,” he said.

Battenberg said this poetry book has two main themes.

“One, is understanding A Leaf in the Wind is a metaphor for our own lives, being born safe and secure on the tree that is our home, and how the winds of life take us away from our roots and send us on a journey full of perils, joys and adventures. We have to learn to float along with the currents and be able to persevere through painful times, while still having empathy for all the other leaves who are also going through these challenges. We are all part of a much larger body than just ourselves and what we do

affects everyone else around us.”

Mark’s family moved to the Beach area in 1966, when he was three years old, and he lived in the Bellefair Avenue and Queen Street East area and went to Williamson Road school. He said the Beach has always inspired and encouraged his artistic work.

“All of the poetry in A Leaf in the Wind was inspired by the Beaches area, from growing up here. A major one was the Glen Stewart Ravine where the poem The River Spirit was written about the stream in there,” he said.

Another main poem in the book is called The Hidden Pass, a 13-page epic about a mystic journey of destiny inspired by the day trips he took with his son through the Quarry Lands in the Victoria Park Avenue and Gerrard Street East area when he was young.

Battenberg said the theme of the poem is, “We need to be aware of and be careful not to tear down all the beautiful natural environment of the Beaches to build on it. And it’s done because that place is gone now.”

Asked about his role as a

Toronto Beach Chorale concert set for April 20

THE TORONTO Beach

Chorale and music director

Mervin W. Frick will present Mozart’s Requiem concert on the evening of Saturday, April 20.

The concert will take place at Knox Presbyterian Church, 630 Spadina Ave., starting at 7:30 p.m.

Works featured will include Ave Maria and Veri Sancte Spiritus

Tickets for the performance are $30, with youth tickets at $15.

To order tickets and for more information, please go to www.torontobeachchorale.com

ticed that people don’t want to talk about it when they don’t have food or if they need some support, so what artists can do is to spark the fire and bring awareness to people who are willing to help others.

For more information on A Leaf in the Wind, please contact markbattenberg@ rogers.com

musician, Mark said he has been writing and producing community concerts for over 10 years for the winter and summer solstice, to raise food for local food banks.

“It’s always been a really big success and it’s something I love to do, and we bring in a lot of food and awareness for people in the community that are in need,” said Battenberg. “It is like a gift I get to give back to my Beaches area.”

Battenberg said he has no-

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Mark Battenberg recently released his new poetry book A Leaf in the Wind, Poetry Faerie Tales and Meditations for Modern Times, which features his own drawings, layouts and composed music.

Beach Metro Community News fundraiser at Balmy Beach Club

THE MEMBERS of the Balmy Beach Club will be holding a Members Jam to support Beach Metro Community News on Sunday, April 21.

The fundraiser will start at 4 p.m. and will be a musical jam event. Members and their guests who plan to attend the fundraiser are asked to donate a minimum $5.

Earth Day events upcoming

SATURDAY, APRIL 20, is Earth Day and there are a number of

events planned for the East Toronto area to observe the event.

Numerous community cleanups are being planned from April 19 through to April 21, and information on how to get involved can be found at the City of Toronto’s website at www.toronto.ca/cleantoronto

Also, there will be an Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 20, at St. Aidan’s in the Beach church, 2423 Queen St. E. The event will

take place from 1 to 3 p.m., and will include stories, crafts, and activities for children and all ages.

Toronto-Danforth Councillor Paula Fletcher will also be hosting a number of Community Compost Days this coming weekend.

On Saturday, April 20, residents can pick up free compost at Phin Park, starting at 7 a.m.; at Monarch Park, starting at 8 a.m.; at Kempton Howard Park, starting at 9 a.m.; and at Jimmie Simpson

Park, starting at noon.

On Sunday, April 21, compost can be picked up at Greenwood Park, starting at 7 a.m.; and Riverdale Park, starting at 9 a.m.

For more information, please go to www.councillorpaulafletcher. ca/compost_days_2024.

Never the Same exhibition at The Beacher Cafe POET AND photographer Carole Wilson presents her Never the Same exhibit at The Beacher Cafe

this month.

The exhibit features poems and photos by Wilson who lived for decades in the Beach and was the former president of the Balmy Beach Residents Association and also a food columnist for Beach Metro Community News in the early 1980s.

The Beacher Cafe is at 2162 Queen St. E. The exhibit ends April 30. For more info, go to www.facebook.com/neverthesamepoetry.