2008 & 2011 Gem Award Winners for Culture
THE LAKESHORE
VILLAGES Volum e 0 8 • I ssue 0 3 • Ju l y - A u g u s t Ed i t i o n
engage • entertain • educate • inspire
Firesound
Alan Frew
IN THIS ISSUE
Lakeshore Mardi Gras
Top 10 04 Hot Eats 05 Wave Parade 06 Keep teeth safe 07 Gems 08 Community Corner 09 Condo Owners 12 Community Living 14 PanAm Torch 15
Singles, couples and families will enjoy the refreshing open-air ambience of the Lakeshore Mardi Gras in a natural park setting in the heart of the beautiful Lakeshore community. Taking place over a four-day period from Friday, July 31 to Monday, August 3, the community-based event draws its inspiration from the world famous Mardi Gras held annually in New Orleans. Last year the event was a huge succ ess and this year promises to be bigger and better with a few new surprises. Participants will be able to sample a wide variety of cuisines, while enjoying Dixie, Jazz, Blues, Rock, and Country bands in one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Toronto, Colonel Samuel Smith Park, on the historic Lakeshore grounds. Live music will play on the main stage and buskers will perform dazzling displays of entertainment. The Spoons, Kim Mitchell, Alan Frew of Glass Tiger and Firesound – Toronto Firefighters Band will be headlining the main stage. Enjoy the kid’s zone, interactive games and food vendors, a midway, and market vendors offering arts, crafts, jewellery and more. See the ad on the back page for a complete listing of entertainment.
Kim Mitchell
Renewing your mortgage? Before you check that box... Did you know that with your bank’s mortgage insurance: X
Your BANK gets paid when you die NOT your FAMILY
X
Coverage GOES DOWN as you pay off your mortgage, but you PAY the same
X
Costs are not guaranteed and can increase at any time
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You pay your premiums but might not be covered
X
Rates change every time you refinance your mortgage
X
There’s no break for being in good health
X
It usually costs far more than individual insurance
The answer is personally-owned life insurance! Call or visit our website for a free quote (insurance partners include: Manulife, Sun Life, Canada Life, Empire Life, BMO Insurance, RBC Insurance, Desjardins, Transamerica, Industrial-Alliance, SSQ Group, Foresters)
2731 Lake Shore Blvd W (at First St) 416-369-2266
www.kearnsfinancial.com
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Top 10 things to do on the now that summer is here! The Lakeshore Villages
1. Enjoy the many bicycle and walking paths and the beautiful lakefront on the Lakeshore. 2. Take time to browse through the many eclectic stores. 3. Relax and enjoy a cold refreshment on one of the many outdoor patios. 4. Visit a local hot spot and catch some great live music. 5. Chat with a local. Many residents move into the area and stay for a long time! 6. Watch boats sailing in and out of the marinas. Sit along Lake Ontario and spot a kayaker or two! 7. Cast a line and try your luck. 8. Dine at your favourite restaurant or find a new favourite. 9. Grab an ice cream, then don’t plan anything except having a delightful time. 10. Explore and enjoy festivals starting in June and running through into September.
Volume 08 | Issue 03
Five Issues A Year ~ Circulation 30,000 Delivered by Canada Post
For advertising information, please contact Toby Gardiner by e-mail at toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com Editorial Contributors Lindsay Howe
www.thelakeshore.ca
Toby Gardiner | Publisher toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com
Follow us on Twitter @RJentpub and like us on Facebook @RJEntertainmentPublishing. Read all our publications on-line @ www.rjentpub.com The Lakeshore Villages is printed on 100% recycled fibre. Please recycle.
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Hot Eats – Savour the Flavour! What goes best with great arts and culture? Amazing food! As part of its Cultural Hotspot initiative, the City of Toronto is launching HOT Eats, a program that highlights local Etobicoke restaurants and cafés. HOT Eats will spread the word about the wonderful and varied dining choices in Etobicoke, encouraging people to experience local arts and culture and enjoy a great meal. Do you own or manage a restaurant or café in south and central Etobicoke? If so, you are invited to be part of HOT Eats. cultural hotspot Sign up to have your restaurant, café or bakery featured in the Hot Eats online directory, interactive map and Cultural Hotspot promotions, celebrating local culture, heritage, creativity, business and community. Your business will be included in the Cultural Loops Guide, to be published this fall featuring self-guided tours in Etobicoke neighbourhoods. To apply, fill out an application by July 10 and donate one $25 gift certificate to be awarded through an Etobicoke Guardian contest. Visit www.toronto.ca/culturalhotspot/eats to learn more. Do you love to dine out in your neighbourhood? This is a fantastic way to discover the amazing eateries in Etobicoke and enter a draw to win a gift certificate to a participating restaurant. Stay tuned for more information about HOT Eats – the program launches on July 30, with an interactive map and listing of restaurants at www.toronto.ca/culturalhotspot/eats. The Etobicoke Guardian will be running a series of giveaways so that you have a chance to enter and win a $25 gift certificate to a local restaurant! The Cultural Hotspot initiative shines a spotlight on arts, culture and community in south and central Etobicoke from May through October 2015 with special events, festivals and happenings. For event information, visit www.toronto.ca/culturalhotspot.
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Lakeshore Arts and the Walking Wave Parade
Ward 6 update – by Mark Grimes
By Susan Nagy, Executive Director, Lakeshore Arts Sunday, June 14th Lakeshore Arts and Friends of the Pan Am Path gathered with almost 100 people despite the constant rain, to celebrate music, art and dance at the official opening of Zone 5 of the Art Relay.
Residents of Etobicoke-Lakeshore are all too familiar with inadequate and unreliable transit service. I have heard your concerns about delayed and overcrowded buses, streetcars arriving in bunches, and poor service in general. TTC remains one of the most talked about issues at City Hall but together we are making some progress. In an effort to bring much needed streetcar improvements, I passed a motion at City Council this past March that requests that the TTC include the following in its 2016 Capital Budget:
The Pan Am Path is an 84-kilometre continuous path for walking, running, cycling and wheeling that connects the city from east to west incorporating art installations and activations up to and during the Pan Am/Parapan Am Games.
1. Relocate the Humber Loop to Park Lawn Road and Lake Shore Blvd. West 2. “Close the gap” on the dedicated streetcar right-of-way between St. Joseph’s Hospital and Exhibition Place I have created a petition for this initiative, called “Motion 11”, which I encourage everyone to sign at www.markgrimes.ca. These potential improvements are currently in the proposal stage. I will share any plans or potential configurations as soon as they are available. By signing this petition you are telling the TTC that Ward 6 deserves and desperately needs faster, more reliable transit.
The Walking Wave Parade was the culmination of 21 community workshops in schools, libraries, community and health centers that asked participants to explore the concept of community and identity by designing and printing their very own unique flag. Artist facilitators Melissa McGrath and Linda Naccarato worked with 500 children, youth, adults and seniors who created unique imagery using silk-screen techniques.
Some of our recent wins have included the 145 Express Bus route downtown. I had to fight to get the route started and then together we successfully fought to keep it going, and now I constantly hear from residents that this premium bus route has made a huge difference in their commutes. I am now championing a new express bus route along Kipling Avenue to accommodate increased demand, especially from Humber College students. As many residents are aware, I also rode the 501 streetcar during rush hour last year with TTC CEO Andy Byford to identify the many issues plaguing this route. I will soon be taking a similar journey with TTC Chair Josh Colle in order to continue addressing these challenges head on.
The opening, held at Sir Casimir Gzowski Park along Lake Shore Blvd. W., was activated by a number of amazing community partners; Mural Routes provided an opportunity to learn mural-making techniques, music was provided by Tune your Ride and Les Petit Nouveaux; Ballet Creole wowed the crowd with performances from their professional and community dancers showcasing drummers who set the pace; SEYA Youth Choir shared their love of song; Shadowland Theatre and the Humber College Puppetry program stole the afternoon as giant parade puppets lead revelers through the rain as Samba Elegua encouraged participants to sway and dance to infectious beats.
In my countless meetings with TTC staff I have stressed the importance of improving the frequency of local bus routes. Prior to a TTC Board vote which looked at increasing and introducing new bus services, I asked residents to send me their expressions of support for this proposal so that the importance of better transit in Ward 6 could be understood as a priority for the TTC Board. I’m pleased to announce that my office received over 100 emails, phone calls and signatures within 48 hours of this call to action. Each letter was presented directly to the Board prior to the vote, and Ward 6 voices were clearly heard. Beginning in September, residents will now enjoy 10 minute or better service on the 501 Queen, 44 Kipling South, and 76 Royal York South routes. I am optimistic that these improvements will provide some relief to commuters.
Lakeshore Arts would like to thanks our partners, our amazing staff and volunteers who always go above and beyond what is needed and to Jeremy Sale who always captures the picture that encapsulates the spirit and joy of our events. To learn more about the Pan Am Path visit www.panampath.org and to explore arts activities in the South Etobicoke area visit www.lakeshorearts.ca
To sign the petition and find out more about my efforts to improve public transit please subscribe to my eNews at www.markgrimes.ca We still have a long way to go, but I will continue to champion better transit service for Ward 6.
Upcoming Events at the Assembly Hall 1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive • 416-338-7255 Legally Blonde Jr: presented by The Kingsway Conservatory of Music 8 Friday July 24 at 2:30 pm
Based on the popular movie, this upbeat show follows the transformation of Ellie Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Tickets: Adults $10 Children $7. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call 416-234-0121 ext. 222.
1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive • 416-338-7255 6
three reasons to love our neighbourhood.
Keep your teeth safe this summer:
Avoid dental injuries when playing sports The summer holidays are around the corner and it is the time for everyone to enjoy the great outdoors. However, some popular summer sports can expose your teeth to danger. Here are several seasonal activities that could lead to dental injuries and ways to keep your smile safe:
coffee, coffee, coffee.
Swimming Frequent swimming exposes teeth to the chemical additives in pools that reduce the pH of saliva. As a result, salivary proteins break down quickly and form organic deposits on teeth called “swimmers’ calculus”. This appears on the front teeth as a yellow brown stain. Swimmers’ calculus can normally be removed by a professional dental cleaning. Diving Scuba diving can cause severe toothache known as “Tooth squeeze” due to the change in pressure during descent. This is particularly the case if a diver has a cavity, a temporary filling, gum disease or poorly done root canal treatment. It is important to have a dental checkup to eliminate any risk factors prior to scuba diving as it is often difficult to treat these things after the pain onset.
Whether you’re taking a weekend walk on the Waterfront Trail or starting your morning commute, stop in and see us. Enjoy your coffee in our café, on our back patio by the lake or to go. You could visit birdsandbeans.ca to find out more about us but,
Contact sports Sports like soccer, baseball and basketball don’t require the wearing of a helmet but can involve knocks to the mouth. Use of a mouth guard is the best prevention against damage to braces, teeth and jaws. There are several types of mouth guards. Ask your dentist for advice about which mouth guard solution is best for you.
better yet, drop in to the café at 2413 Lake Shore Boulevard West at Mimico Avenue. See you soon.
What to do if an injury does occur Any injury to the mouth should be examined by a dentist as soon as possible after the injury to increase the chances of success of treatment.
Mark
If a baby tooth is knocked out: • It cannot be re-implanted due to the risk of damage to the permanent teeth that are developing. • Rinse the mouth with water and apply a cold compress to any injury to the lip to reduce swelling. • Visit the dentist to make sure there are no tooth fragments embedded in the lip or cheek
Grimes
If a permanent tooth is knocked out: • Hold the tooth by the crown (white part) and gently rinse under cold running water for 10 seconds. Do not touch or scrub the root of the tooth. • Replace the permanent tooth in the socket and hold it there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. Make sure that it is facing the right way. • If you can’t put the tooth back in the socket, place it in a clean container preferably with cold milk or saliva. Do not store the tooth in water. • The ideal solution for transporting teeth that have fallen out is available for purchase online called save-a-tooth (Hanks balanced storage medium). It is wise to have this as part of an emergency kit. • Call the dental office immediately as the best chance of success is if the tooth is re-implanted within 30-60 min of loosing the tooth.
Revitalizing our Community
If a tooth is chipped: • Contact the dentist immediately in order to prevent pain, infection, and reduce the need for more complicated dental treatment. • Take the fragment of the tooth with you to the dentist if you are able to find it. Doctors Mira and Max Wassef are the owners and operators of Lakeside Dentists located next door to the famous Birds and Beans Café on 2405 Lakeshore Blvd West in the heart of Mimico by the Lake. Being a dynamic brother and sister team, they operate a family and cosmetic dental office. Their office is child-friendly and they have extensive experience in putting anxious adults as well as kids at ease. Offering a full range of dental treatments including tooth whitening, dental implants, tooth replacement, smile makeovers, invisalign orthodontic treatment and clear braces as well as dentures and dental hygiene. Please feel free to contact them with any queries 416-255-1566. wwwLakesideDentists.com
Phone: 416-397-9273 Fax: 416-397-9279 Email: councillor_grimes@toronto.ca Web: markgrimes.ca 7
Bernard Trottier & Peter Milczyn Host the Annual Gems of Etobicoke– Lakeshore Awards Ceremony
Canada Day
By Bernard Trottier, MP Etobicoke-Lakeshore Canada Day is a celebration of all that is great about our country – it allows us to connect with our past, celebrate who we are, honour our exceptional achievements, and build a legacy for tomorrow. Our Conservative Government is proud to celebrate Canada’s rich history, diverse natural and cultural heritage, strong values and many accomplishments.
A Wonderful Evening Recognizing Local Business Excellence
Bernard Trottier, Member of Parliament for Etobicoke–Lakeshore and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs along with Peter Milczyn MPP for Etobicoke-Lakeshore and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure were honoured to host the annual Gems of Etobicoke-Lakeshore award ceremony. The Gems honours outstanding businesses and community organizations from various categories across the riding. “Etobicoke–Lakeshore is home to some of the finest small and medium sized businesses in Canada”, stated MP Trottier. “The service excellence that is extended by these fine businesses help to make our community the best part of Toronto. I urge residents to get out there and support our local business and experience first-hand why these truly are Gems”. “The Gems of Etobicoke-Lakeshore offer me a wonderful opportunity each year to acknowledge outstanding businesses and organizations in my riding and encourage residents to shop locally”, stated MPP Milczyn. “These unique small businesses and groups in our neighbourhoods provide incredible service and deserve to be recognized. It is notable that all of the exemplary nominees share a sense of community spirit, demonstrated through volunteerism and involvement in local events and initiatives. The Gems were created to celebrate those who work to make EtobicokeLakeshore an even more vibrant place to live, work and play”.
Canada’s history is filled with notable figures whose legacy has enriched the Canadian and global community. For instance, Alexander Graham Bell’s invention of the telephone changed the way the world communicates forever. Harriet Tubman’s courage and determination helped hundreds of slaves escape to freedom in Canada along the Underground Railroad. Nellie McClung’s leadership paved the way for equality for women in Canada. Terry Fox’s inspiring cross-Canada run continues to raise money and awareness for cancer research. Canada’s men and women in uniform have courageously fought tyranny and evil around the world throughout our history. And, every day, hard-working and generous Canadians from coast to coast to coast contribute to the Canadian experience.
The awards ceremony, attended by well over 200 people, is an excellent opportunity for various businesses from across Etobicoke-Lakeshore to come together and celebrate their collective service to the community. The winners of the various categories were as follows: Best Retail, North: Beaulieu Vision Care South: Lakeshore Valu-Mart Best Food Service, North: The Pie Commission South: New Toronto Billiards Best Community Service, North: Islington Seniors Centre South: Storefront Humber Best Restaurant, North: Posticino Ristorante South: Thrive Organic Kitchen and Café Best Culture & Recreation, North: Westmount Gallery South: Mimico Children’s Choir Best Service Business, North: Stonegate Denture Clinic South: Kickstart Taekwondo Best New Business, North: Stoney’s Bread Company South: Citrus Medical Centre
The Fathers of Confederation founded our great country with a vision for a united and prosperous Canada, and 148 years later Canada stands on the world stage as a nation strong and free. And, our Conservative Government is committed to building a stronger and more prosperous Canada for years to come. That’s why we are helping create jobs and opportunities for all Canadians, while keeping taxes low and balancing the budget. We are helping make our streets and communities safer. We are making historic infrastructure investments across the GTA. We are conserving Canada’s rich natural beauty. And, we are protecting and promoting Canadian values of freedom, democracy and the rule of law in Canada and abroad.
To view the full list of nominees and winners please visit www.bernardtrottiermp.ca
This Canada Day we celebrate our beautiful community of EtobicokeLakeshore together with our business owners, families, teachers, seniors, young people, non-profit leaders, and the many other exemplary Canadians that call our community home. We celebrate the dynamic public spaces across this great community that unite and connect us – our beautiful parks, our stunning Waterfront trail and our robust arts, cultural and community centres. We also celebrate the many moments and memories that have been created over the past year. From Mimico to Long Branch, we as residents of Etobicoke-Lakeshore have much to be proud of. While we honour Canada’s past and present, we have a lot to look forward to. This month, Toronto will welcome thousands of top athletes from across the Americas for the 2015 Pan Am and Parapan American Games. Our Government is proud to be a major funding party to the Games. We have invested up to $500 million for construction and refurbishment of sport infrastructure, the 2015 Sport Legacy funds, and will be providing essential federal services such as border security and accreditation support.
Kickstart Taekwondo
Mimico Children’s Choir
Citrus Medical Centre
Valu-Mart
New Toronto Billiards
Storefront Humber
Thrive Organic Kitchen & Café
With Canada’s rich history, tremendous natural and cultural heritage, strong values and sense of purpose, and robust and growing economy, we truly have so much to celebrate this Canada Day. On July 1st, let’s celebrate Canada – the best country in the world. Happy Canada Day!
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COMMUNITY CORNER Good Food Market The Etobicoke-Lakeshore Community Good Food Market is now open! Come visit Lakeshore Village Park located north of Lakeshore Blvd. West between 10th St. and 12th St. on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 7:30 pm. Fresh, affordable fruits and vegetables are available. For more information contact Maki at 416-252-9701 ext. 271.
What is Toastmasters? Through its member clubs, Toastmasters international helps men and women learn the arts of speaking, listening and thinking - vital skills that promote self-actualization, enhance leadership potential, foster human understanding and contribute to the betterment of mankind. The Toastmasters Vision: oastmasters International empowers people to achieve their full potential and realize their dreams. Through our member clubs, people throughout the world can improve their communication and leadership skills, and find the courage to change. The Toastmasters Mission: Toastmasters International is the leading movement devoted to making effective oral communication a worldwide reality. It is basic to this mission that Toastmasters International continually expand its worldwide network of clubs thereby offering ever-greater numbers of people the opportunity to benefit from its programs. What about you? Do you want to improve your Communication and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive atmosphere, right here in your community? If so, come and visit Humber Shores Toastmasters every Wednesday 7:30 - 9:30 pm at Palace Pier, Board Room, Level 1B located at 2045 Lake Shore Blvd. West. More information about the Humber Shores Toastmasters Club can be found at www.humbershores.com.
All Outdoor Pools open All outdoor pools will begin their full-time summer schedules on Friday, June 26 and will remain open with varying schedules until Sunday, September 6, weather permitting. More information including pool operating hours visit www.toronto.ca/swim. Heart to Home MPP Peter Milczyn presents a certificate to Heart to Home Meals who celebrated Ontario Seniors Month with a Free Food Giveaway. The company has recently developed a new brand identity and is introducing new lines of frozen, heat and serve meals. The entrees are made locally and delivered directly to customers. Samples of cake and complete dinners were given to seniors who are members of the Franklin Horner Community Centre. A number of the seniors were part of the focus group that provided feedback during the development of the meals.
Grand Opening Sugar For My Honey opened its doors on Saturday, June 13th with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Owner Will chose Long Branch for his restaurant at 3399 Lake Shore Blvd. West after meeting his sweetheart. Sugar For My Honey serves traditional Austrian cuisine such as the famous Palatschinke, Kaiserschmarren, Spatzle and more!
Outdoor classroom at David Hornell JS On June 4th, David Hornell JS revealed their exciting new outdoor space. The new space is an outdoor classroom using elements from nature to engage students’ imagination and make them want to learn. The space includes a small butterfly garden with plants that butterflies are attracted to. Students at David Hornell will be studying all about butterflies, plants and soil as part of a whole school inquiry as they learn in the butterfly garden. In the middle of this space is a circular teaching space next to a circle of trees, a teaching platform and rock seating. The space encourages students to learn by being in a different environment and teaches students to appreciate nature and the creatures that exist. This outdoor classroom has involved students, school staff, the Parent Council, TDSB staff and organizations that provided funding.
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Long Branch Fest The first annual Long Branch Fest took place on Saturday, June 13th along Lakeshore Blvd. West from Long Branch Ave. to 22nd St. The day was filled with a sidewalk sale, music, children’s activities, buskers and performers, and food!
The Shorefront Festival Lakeshore Village was a buzz of excitement on Friday, June 19th and Saturday, June 20th for its annual Shorefront Festival. Children and adults enjoyed an east oast corner, barbeque, vendors, artisans, crafts, and outdoor movie night featuring Grease, carnival games and of course bouncy castles.
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Ontario Increasing Protections for Condo Owners Province Proposing Changes to Support Stronger Condo Communities Submitted by Peter Milcyzn, MPP Etobicoke-Lakeshore Ontario is introducing new legislation to increase protections for condominium owners, improve how condo corporations are run, and ensure that condo boards are governed professionally. As you may already know, Ontario’s condo sector has grown substantially since the Condominium Act was last updated in 2001. To give some perspective, the number of units has boomed from 270,000 units in 2001 to 700,000 today. It is estimated that approximately 1.3 million Ontarians live or work in 10,000 condominium properties today. Modernizing the Condominium Act, 1998: Protecting Condominium Owners Act, 2015 looks to address the following issues: • Buyers misinformation at pre-purchase • surprise increase in condo fees • corporation refuses to provide financial records • costly disputes • unqualified condo managers • major financial decision without owners’ consent • underfunded reserve fund • building in crisis
The following is a brief summary of how some of the changes resolve the aforementioned issues: Transparent board governance: • Minimum qualifications for condo directors including prescribed disclosures and an online orientation delivered by the condo authority at no charge; • Standardized forms and timelines to ensure consistency across condo corporations.
For the last three years, the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services has listened and reviewed the Condominium Act with Ontarians through an extensive public engagement process. In the fall of 2012, the public brought issues and ideas to the table through roundtables, public information sessions, and email and mail submissions. In Spring/Summer 2013, five working groups and an expert panel reviewed the findings report and the public comments and generated a solutions report. Lastly, in fall/ winter 2013/14, condo residents and members of the public from across the province reviewed the solutions report which lead to the proposed new Condominium Act.
Protecting owners’ investments: • Strengthening reserve funds and reducing the risk of unexpected and costly special assessments or loads by updating and standardizing requirements for an adequate reserve fund; • Preventing conflicts of interest by implementing sealed-bid processes for the procurement of goods and services; • Clarify rules and responsibilities governing how corporations spend money to make improvements, repairs, and maintenance. Clear rules for developers to protect owners during the purchase process: • Restrict developers practises that result in surprise cost increases, including prohibiting the sale or leaseback of common assets; • Improve disclosure to purchasers through: mandatory condo guide to buyers, summary of important disclosure materials, and standardized portions of the declaration, by-laws or rules. Extending new home warranty coverage to certain condo conversions Professionally licensed condo managers • Mandatory licensing for condo managers and management firms through self-funded, independent licensing authority; • The Association of Condominium Managers of Ontario, Canadian Condo Institute and Condo Owners Association have expressed strong support for this approach. A condo authority to provide modern, timely and cost-effective dispute resolution; • The Condo Authority’s Dispute Resolution Committee will have the ability to make binding decisions; • Would offer quick, accessible and less expensive online dispute resolution; • Would offer free information to reduce unnecessary and costly disputes; • Potential savings to government by reducing the number of disputes clogging the courts; • Will have new accountability and transparency measures, such as: public salary disclosure, processes similar to freedom of information requests, and ability for the Auditor General to audit. South Etobicoke has evolved into one of the most vibrant communities in the city. I have seen this area grow and change over the years. However, the laws that govern condo living have not changed in a number of years. Our government has brought forward these changes to ensure that condominium residents will have, should the Bill be passed, much stronger protections for their homes. A new accessible and independent dispute resolution panel will make it easier to handle disputes, condo management will become even more professional and accountable, and condo purchasers will also benefit from greater protection. As a condo owner myself, I know how important these changes will be to making condo life more hassle free.
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P eter MBroten, ilczyn, MPP Laurel mpp Etobicoke-Lakeshore Etobicoke-Lakeshore
Working youyou to ensure Workingwith with to a better community to live, work and play! ensure a better community
toyou live, work play! If need help and with provincial matters, please contact me. If you need help with provincial matters, please contact me. Constituency Office: 701 Evans Avenue, Suite 100 Constituency Office: Etobicoke, ON M9C 1A3 The Queensway T933 - 416-259-2249 ON M8Z 1P3 FEtobicoke, - 416-259-3704 lbroten.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org T - 416-259-2249 • F - 416-259-3704 www.laurelbroten.onmpp.ca pmilcyzn.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org
Cyrus Chan
Financial Advisor .
2990 Lake Shore Blvd W Toronto, ON M8V 1J9 416-251-8212
www.petermilczyn.onmpp.ca
AT 1045 THE QUEENSWAY
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BREAD IS ONLY THE BEGINNING JOIN US FOR BRUNCH, LUNCH & DINNER
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Business Improvement Areas
Community Living
What they are and how they benefit the community
By Brad Jones
The four Lakeshore BIA’s (Mimico, Mimico-by-the-Lake, Lakeshore Village and Long Branch) are committed to supporting the economic, cultural and social well-being of the community.
Well, as we head into July, I am lead to believe we are going to get some fabulous hot and very sunny days. Summer is a time when we see just about everyone out and about throughout our community and all types of festivities are taking place.
Notwithstanding their substantial involvement, many are unaware of what a BIA is, what it does, and the significant contributions they have made within your community. What is a BIA? BIA stands for a Business Improvement Area. A BIA is a formal association of business owners within a region, managed by a board operating in accordance with the city’s Municipal Acts and Codes. The BIA is an organization set up to promote and improve the businesses, as well as promote the community as a shopping district. The BIA functions as a voice for local businesses, offering discussions to address issues and share mutual concerns. Together these issues are met with specific resolutions and carried out. BIA’s provide businesses with secure funding, and access to city programs.
With all the new social media being the latest craze, I find it refreshing to take a walk and find those family run businesses right in our neighborhood. As a family run funeral home, we recognize the importance of community, and that is why we have been instrumental in serving both our neighbors’ and community for over 94 years.
The BIA provides marketing and promotions for both the businesses and community events. The four Lakeshore BIA’s, have made extensive contributions to the areas well-received local festivals and events. Without the BIA’s function of planning, marketing, and promotion for these events, not to mention their financial contributions, these community events would not be as successful, or cease to be carried out all-together.
I am a great believer in supporting business within the community and encourage you as either an individual or as your business to get involved in community events. Last year, and this past May you could find me running the cotton candy booth at the Tulip Festival and when it comes to personal events involving my family, I look no further than supporting those business right here in Etobicoke. Community is never as strong as when it looks out for each other and supports each other no matter how small the act.
The BIA’s lead community building and promotional initiatives in an effort to meet their goal of preserving the close-knit community and maintaining the natural ambiance of the area. A BIA’s involvement and implementation of initiatives helps to increase pride and interest within the community. Their involvement ranges from participating in seasonal and historical events, to heading engaging activities and friendly competitions.
As a community run business, I would encourage you to get outside this summer within our community and support that local business, volunteer or just join in one of the many summer festivities. One has to look no further than Franklin Horner Community Centre to see all the events that are planned in our community. Many of these events you will find Ridley participating. It could be helping cook hamburgers early spring at the Shorefront Festival or running a bouncy castle at Extravaganza September 12th.
A Business Improvement Area is also responsible for beautifying the streets, maintenance and overall visual improvement of the Villages. This is carried out through planting shrubs and flowers, hosting community cleanups and hanging banners. Who Benefits from having a BIA?
With the summer here, I too, would welcome any and all feedback and would be pleased to answer any question(s) about our industry.
A BIA benefits all businesses in the area: from retail, professional, dining, entertainment or finance. The BIA works to expand the business operator’s customer base. The consumer is also benefited, ensuring they receive the best value, and quality customer care.
Given that Ridley is a funeral home, some of you may be a little hesitant to ask that question that has been at the forefront of your mind about death or the funeral industry. But as a community member, I would be happy to entertain any question I haven’t written about. I can be reached by phone 416-259-3705 or by email at bradjones@ridleyfuneralhome.com. We take your privacy very seriously and will only contact you if you request us to. You never know, we may get a host of similar questions that I may make into a future topic.
BIA’s benefit property owners, as the initiatives and activities carried out create and maintain a vibrant and successful environment. These and other factors relating to the BIAs contributions help to increase property values. We are fortunate to have such active and involved BIA’s. The BIA’s recognize and support local businesses, providing the assistance necessary to continue to grow and thrive. A special thanks the four Lakeshore BIA’s (Mimico, Mimico-by-the-Lake, Lakeshore Village and Long Branch) for their vital difference they make within our community!
22 Division update PC Fielding & PC Juhasz
Timothy’s 15th Annual Canada Celebration kicked off on Tuesday, June 30th featuring Freedom Train. The day included special guests, barbeque and plenty of giveaways.
We are new 22 Division Community Response Unit Officers. Assigned to the Long Branch, Alderwood and Mimico area of 22 Division. We are excited to be your newly assigned Neighbourhood Officers and are reaching out to local business and area residents to listen to concerns.
Owner Tim wishes to remind everyone that his Canada Day party also is a fundraiser for the Salvation Army Children’s Summer Camp programs and 2015 exceeded all expectations.
This summer we will be working with our assigned youth in policing students (Y.I.P.I’s) focusing on graffiti removal. This will be of no cost to the local community and business owners.
Timothy’s Pub supports kid’s camps
Graffiti in our area not only effects the victim/home owner but area citizens see it as a deterioration of their neighborhood. We have been lucky to obtain donations of paint from local paint stores. If you have any questions or concerns about your neighbourhood please contact us at 416-808-2219.
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Celebrating the Arrival of the Pan Am Torch to Etobicoke Lakeshore JULY 6th from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Colonel Samuel Smith Park Torch Arrives at 7:00pm
Meet the Humber College Torch Bearer
Get excited Etobicoke – the Torch is coming. On July 6th starting at 5:00pm Colonel Samuel Smith Park will transform into one big community celebration.
Original story by Laura Stricker and published on Humber Today Oksana Chernichenko has dealt with her fair share of challenges. The difficulty of trying to settle into Canadian life after immigrating from the former USSR with her family when she was very young, was one.
Humber College is proud to be the Etobicoke Lakeshore community host for the Pan Am Torch Relay. The community celebration will feature various community groups hosting interactive activities, food trucks (Blazin’ Cajun, Jeff’s Gourmet Chip Truck, Food Cabbie, Humber College’s Food Truck), music on the Pan Am Stage, various entertainment booths, and of course the Pan Am Torch (arriving at approximately 7:00pm). This free event runs from 5:00pm to 8:00pm.
“One of my first memories is of playing with other children in Austria, which I now know was a Red Cross refugee camp my family stayed in before making their final stop in Southern Ontario,” Chernichenko says. “I am at a place now where I can truly appreciate how difficult this must have been for them, especially with small children.” Another setback happened a few years ago: while trying to take care of her sister, work full time and go to school at the same time, Chernichenko simply burned out. “My younger sister spent a few months couch surfing in Vancouver and struggled bouncing from job to job,” she recalls. “I insisted she move in with me. At the time I was starting my first year at York University, taking the International Communications program. With a fire in my belly and new challenges ahead, I started my school year with a lot or optimism. The rest of the year did not continue on that positive note. I struggled with a full course load at the University and full time hours at work, [and] my sister needed more support than I realized.”
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the activities in the celebration: The Assembly Hall will have a silk-screening demonstration. The Etobicoke Arab Community Centre will have an interactive cultural booth with henna painting, and a youth dance group. LAMP Community Health Centre will have face painting and a Torch craft station. Social Action for Equality will setup a rainbow-coloured big block Jenga game. South Etobicoke Cycling Club will offer free bike tune ups. Lakeshore Etobicoke Garden Society will have a garden decoration display. Humber College will have several interactive booths, including a rock-climbing wall and a kid’s sack race. The Pan Am Torch Relay will also have sponsor zone featuring several interactive entertainment booths.
It took several years, but she bounced back and enrolled at Humber. Things are better now. Chernichenko, who is entering her second year in the creative advertising program, was selected to represent Humber as its Pan Am torchbearer later this summer, after writing a candid essay about her struggles and how she overcame them. Along with Chernichenko as torchbearer, Humber has been selected as a community host for the Pan Am Games Torch Relay.
Free parking will be offered at all of Humber’s participating parking lots for the celebration. Space is limited and based on a first-come, first-served basis. Humber’s main lot is located just south of 23rd Street & Lake Shore Blvd W. If you have any questions about the event please email Kristin. McCurdy@humber.ca
The college will host a community celebration at Colonel Sam Smith Park on the Lakeshore Campus, July 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. Everyone is invited to see the Pan Am flame and enjoy the festivities, entertainment and food trucks. “The Pan Am/Parapan Am Games is a big deal for Toronto, and when Humber was approached by the Torch Relay organizers I thought it would be a great opportunity for our students to celebrate sport and be a part of the Etobicoke-Lakeshore community,” says Wanda Buote, principal of Humber’s Lakeshore Campus. “The Lakeshore Campus is a proud member of the Etobicoke-Lakeshore community and enjoys contributing to the vibrancy of the area.” Chernichenko says she is honoured to have been selected. “It makes me feel really good that I get to do this – for myself, my family and Humber. It means a lot.”
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