The Lakeshore Villages by City Media

Celebrating 20 years of community arts in Etobicoke

THE LAKESHORE

VILLAGES Volu me 06 • Is s ue 01 • M arc h / Ap r i l 2 0 1 3

www.thelakeshore.ca

lakeshorearts.ca

IN TH IS IS S UE RJ celebrates 20 years 02 Earth day 05 CCFEW 07 Community Corner 08 Events at Assembly Hall 10 Lakeshore Arts events 11 Black jack 21 12 Eugene Smith comes home 13 Lakeshorts 14 Councillor Mark Grimes 15 LGBT in Lakeshore Villages 16 Florida home and taxes 17 Small business feature 18 Jane’s walk 19

OF F I C I A L N E WSPA P ER

March into the Villages and Experience Everything the Lakeshore Village, Mimico, Mimico by the Lake and Longbranch have to Offer By: Lindsay Howe Residents and merchants on Lake Shore Boulevard are blessed to be a part of such a beautiful area. With March Break, Easter and Mother’s Day around the corner, you and your family won’t want to miss out on all the action and enchantment to be found across the villages of Longbranch, Lakeshore Village, Mimico and Mimico by the Lake. All of the amenities you could possible need are right within the comfort of your own neighbourhood! For your social outings and casual or fine dining experiences, Lake Shore is home to some fabulous pubs, bars, restaurants, coffee houses and bakeries. Discovering the Natural Beauty of the Lakeshore What better way to spend your March Break than discovering the stunningly scenic trails, parks, woodlands and marshes surrounding the area. Take in the uplifting and invigorating experience of walking briskly on a crisp winter day. Stroll through one of the breathtaking trails along Lakeshore; go bird watching, take photographs, and experience the natural beauty surrounding you. Visit Lakeshore’s nature trails to experience the serene beauty of the rugged landscape, enjoy the peaceful quietude, and the refreshing cold air. The City of Toronto offers a program called Discovery Walks where you can experience nature and learn about the local area’s natural and social history. Along the walking routes, you will discover informative signage about the heritage and natural environment of Lakeshore. Through these self-guided tours, you can experience the lustrous areas, while learning about its natural history. continued on page 04

RJ Publishing celebrates 20 years! On February 14th, 1993 Evening Out with Bob and June was launched. Bob and June Hackett (my stepdad and mom) started a magazine that featured community-based businesses in the Etobicoke area. Early issues featured a cover sketch of Bob and June dining at local restaurants. In 1995 the “Bob and June” was dropped from the logo and the magazine called Evening Out focussed on all types of retail businesses. RJ Entertainment Publishing has been a leader in community-oriented content for small to medium business and local residents in several established communities. Our group of community publications now includes the Streetsville Village Times, Port Credit Village Times, The Lakeshore Villages, Kingsway Korners, The New Clarkson’s Corners and Village Of Islington Times. By networking with local shopkeepers and services, our publications provide an effective outlet for promoting the brands, products and services of local businesses to a wide audience. The suite of publications also includes several community business directories that are developed and maintained with the assistance of local BIA’s, and are distributed yearly to businesses and homes. Currently, RJ Entertainment Publishing publishes directories for Streetsville, Clarkson, Port Credit, Forest Hill and The Kingsway.

The Lakeshore Villages Volume 06 | Issue 01

Quarterly Publication ~ Circulation 30,000 Delivered by Canada Post

For advertising information, please contact Toby Gardiner at 416-875-1409 or by e-mail at toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com Editorial Contributors Lindsay Howe

RJ Entertainment Publishing also includes high-quality programs for several local events and festivals. For the last five years, we have published the Tim Hortons Southside Shuffle Official Festival Program, which won the 2009 Festivals & Events Ontario Award for Best Official Printed Program. By facilitating discussion and comment on local projects, businesses and initiatives, our publications have become a part of the local landscape, and have helped draw community interest and awareness to positive local development. Check out our small business feature on page 18. If you would like your business featured in the Lakeshore Villages community newspaper, contact Toby Gardiner at the email below.

Toby Gardiner | Publisher toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com The Lakeshore Villages is printed on 100% recycled fibre. Please recycle.

www.migomedia.com www.rjentpub.com

March into the Villages continued from cover Indulge your Sweet Tooth Easter and Mother’s Day are quickly approaching, and luckily Lakeshore is home to some of the best bakeries and cafés in the city. Treat your mom this Mother’s Day and take her out to your neighbourhood café, Birds & Beans or Sweet Olenka’s bakery. Birds & Beans is a cozy and quaint café by the lake, located at 2413 Lake Shore Blvd. West (at Mimico Avenue). Birds & Beans offers unique, organic, authentic coffee and delicious cookies and pastries.

Celebrate St Patrick’s Day on the Lakeshore St. Patrick’s Day is almost here. Plan on an entertainment filled celebration at one of Lakeshore’s most popular restaurants, bars or pubs. Come out to enjoy great food and lots of laughs. One of the top destinations for St. Paddy’s Day is Maple Leaf House Grill and Lounge at 2749 Lake Shore Blvd. During these cold winter months, a leisurely stroll along Lake Shore Boulevard is the best way to relax and clear your head. The Mimico, Mimico by the Lake, Longbranch and Lakeshore Village communities are equipped with every shop, restaurant and service available in your immediate vicinity. March onto Lake Shore and discover that everything you could possible need, or want is right within the comfort of your own neighbourhood! For more information and a full business directory visit www.thelakeshore.ca.

Sweet Olenka’s exquisite handcrafted European chocolates, brownies, natural homemade ice-cream, waffles, crepes and desserts are the tastiest treats in town! Indulge in Sweet Olenka’s sweets; bring your mom in for Mother’s Day, or order your desserts to go. Your Easter feast would not be complete without Sweet Olenka’s delicious treats for desserts. Sweet Olenka’s is located at 2790 Lake Shore Blvd. West. The village’s array of elegant restaurants, eateries and cafes will satisfy your taste buds, whatever you are craving. Enjoy a Family Dinner or a Night on the Town The restaurants, bars and pubs along Lake Shore Boulevard are known for their savory food and fun, lively atmosphere. Whether you are planning a family dinner outing, or a night on the town, the villages are the perfect destination for a wide range of quality restaurants from elegant fine dining, to pub food and drinks, to fast food and take out. The Blue Goose Tavern located at 1 Blue Goose Street is the hidden gem of Mimico. The Blue Goose Tavern has an outstanding line up of live entertainment, in addition to pool and shuffleboard tables, and big screen TV’s for you to catch all your sporting events. The Blue Goose serves up live entertainment each Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Come check out the always engaging band The Pie Guys, star headliners at the Blue Goose for over 20 years. The Blue Goose’s long list of performers set to take the stage can be located on their website at www. thebluegoosetavern.com. Community Poster v2.4 wide.pdf 1 2013-02-26 5:12 PM

Support your community

Volunteer Oppor tunity

Assembly Hall tee (AHAC) Advisory Commit

CMY

Purpose of opportunity • To support and promote Assembly Hall programs and events that engage and enrich the community. • To provide input on Assembly Hall policies and operations.

Attitude, knowledge and skills required We're looking for enthusiastic people with diverse skills and experience. Be that good listening skills, open-mindedness, sound judgement to a speciﬁc expertise or interest, such as arts/cultural programming, fundraising or community engagement, for example.

About us The Assembly Hall is a vibrant City of Toronto community cultural centre whose mission is to serve as "a gathering place at the heart of the Lakeshore, where community and creativity are celebrated and nurtured." This beautifully restored century-old building is home to performances, art shows, community open houses, weddings, receptions and much more.

The Assembly Hall 1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive Toronto, ON M8V 4B6 Tel: 416-338-7255

We’d love to hear from you! Send an email to assembly@toronto.ca or call us at 416-338-7255. Current openings are for the June 2013 - 2015 term. The City of Toronto encourages applications from candidates reﬂecting Toronto's diverse population. Completed applications are due by Friday, April 26, 2013.

Celebrating Our Earth: Earth Day 2013 By: Lindsay Howe

Think Globally, Act Locally Earth Day takes place on Monday, April 22. Each year on Earth Day people all over the world are challenged to make positive changes to their daily habits. We all share the same planet and are each responsible for what we use and how we use it. When we use less natural resources, we help to ensure there are enough resources to go around, therefore future generations won’t run out of essential things such as clean water, air and soil. While Earth Day happens only once a year, we should celebrate our Earth on a daily basis and treat every day as though it were Earth Day.

Be A Part of the Solution Earth day serves as a reminder to think about how we can help resolve environmental challenges by taking action to protect our planet. It is our responsibility to learn about biodiversity and take measures to help preserve the plants and animals around us. It is imperative that we rethink the way we use things and make it our objective to use less. The lifestyle choices we make are most often based on habit and convenience. We all have bad habits to break when it comes to living a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Something as simple as leaving reusable grocery bags in your car so you don’t forget to bring them to the grocery store can go a long way to help erase your carbon footprint. We can all do our part to help ensure a healthy planet for generations to come.

Making Earth-Friendly Choices Earth Day is the time to start making more environmentally conscious choices to keep our planet clean and fix some of the damage that has been done to our environment. Easy Earth-friendly changes include: switching to energy efficient light bulbs, using less water, walking or cycling more and buying local produce and foods. Avoid bottled water by buying and using a reusable water bottle.

Mark your calendars, Earth hour is happening on Saturday March 31st from 8:30 – 9:30pm. Wherever you are, turn off all non-essential lighting for an hour!

Recycling is a simple yet important way to reduce the pollution caused by waste. When we recycle we save energy, reduce pollution and preserve our natural resources. By creating a compost pile for our food scraps we reduce the amount of trash that goes into landfills. Composting also helps create rich soil for gardening. A popular Earth Day experience for all ages is planting trees. Not only do trees improve biodiversity and provide habitats for wildlife, trees also help keep the air clean by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. Another way to get involved is to join a community initiative to pick up litter, helping to keep the environment free of contaminants.

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New Nature Programs at Colonel Samuel Smith Park

By Barbara Keaveney, on behalf of CCFEW A wonderful opportunity to experience nearby nature was offered to students in Toronto this past spring. The Humber Arboretum in north Etobicoke, which has offered high quality nature programs to students for many years, expanded to a new venue- Colonel Samuel Smith Park, on the Lake Ontario waterfront at Kipling Avenue. This park contains a wide diversity of habitat, from forests and meadows to ponds and pebble beaches. This supports a great variety of plant and animal life as a result, which makes it an excellent spot to study nature in the city.

Thank you very much for your initiatives and efforts in helping to foster the young minds of our youth, especially in such a challenging economic time.” Another teacher echoed similar comments- “Because the location is close to my school and my class was able to take TTC these were factors. I also felt it was very important for my students to learn about the ecology in their area – close to their homes – so that they could return there with their families/friends.” We are looking forward to another successful set of programs at Colonel Samuel Smith Park next spring. CCFEW has again offered to subsidize a number of classes. For more information, contact the Humber Arboretum at www.humberarboretum. on.ca.

Classes which attended the programs were enthusiastic in their praise for the experience. To help this new initiative get started, a local environment group, CCFEW (Citizens Concerned about the Future of the Etobicoke Waterfront), gave a $5 discount per student to the first 5 classes from different schools who signed up. The added bonus of being able to travel by TTC, or even by foot, to such an excellent venue was a very important incentive to teachers. As one teacher noted in a letter to CCFEW, “Often even the most inexpensive trip costs are increased drastically by the cost that must be added in for transportation to the destination. Having this wonderful facility in our own back yard, within walking distance, combined with your subsidy has allowed a valuable opportunity to be taken advantage of and cherished by all of my grade 2/3 students.

COMMUNITY CORNER

The Lakeshore Villages w w w. t h e l a ke s h o r e. ca

Christmas Wish Fundraiser an outstanding success! Timothy’s Pub proved once again that the holiday spirit is alive and well in the community of Alderwood as they presented a cheque on Saturday, December 22nd in the incredible amount of $16,500 to the Salvation Army. This is the highest single donation the Pub has made to the Salvation Army since starting the Christmas Wish Fundraiser. Pub owners Tim and Robin Brem raised the majority of the $16,500 cheque through open auction sales during their annual fundraiser in December. Auction items up for bid were donated by customers and suppliers. “It’s a labour of love hosting the fundraiser event and our customers are the best” says Tim. Timothy’s Pub is located at 344 Browns Line (two blocks south of Horner Avenue in south Etobicoke).

Bernadette & Joseph Murphy celebrate 67 years Bernie and Joe were married on December 26th, 1945. 2012 marked their 67th Wedding Anniversary. They immigrated to Toronto, Canada in 1956 from Dundalk, County Louth, Ireland. Joe arrived in July and Bernie followed in September with sons Sean, Jery and Noel. Born in Canada, Patricia & Kevin soon followed, to make up their 5 children. The 5 kids have given them 13 grandchildren. The grandkids in turn have 5 great grandchildren, 1 girl and 4 boys. They have lived in the same house in Etobicoke since 1958. Congratulations Bernie and Joe! Volunteers needed! Help seniors in your community! Interested in volunteering with seniors in the Etobicoke community? Join our team as an Adult Day Service Volunteer to assist with kitchen tasks and provide social interaction to our clients. Have access to your own vehicle? Become an Escorted Transportation Volunteer and provide seniors with comfortable rides to vital appointments (mileage reimbursements available!). Alternatively, provide weekly companionship, as a Volunteer Visitor, to a senior living in Etobicoke. ESS Support Services is a not-for-profit agency committed to supporting seniors in their desire to remain in their own homes and community. Please call 416-2430127 ext. 242 or visit www.esssupportservices.ca to join our team of volunteers!

For more information, call 416-201-9515 or visit www.timothyspub.com. Birds & Beans recipient of Appreciation Plaque from Citizens Concerned about the Future of the Etobicoke Waterfront (CCFEW) Birds & Beans were recently presented with a plaque from CCFEW in recognition of their longstanding, generous support and sponsorship of the monthly Etobicoke waterfront bird walks hosted by CCFEW and the Colonel Sam Smith Park Spring Bird Festivals. Included in the photograph are (left to right) Janette Harvey, City of Toronto - Parks, Forestry & Recreation, Madeleine Pengelley, David Pritchard - owners of Birds & Beans, Brian Bailey - President CCFEW, Alan Drinnan - Treasurer CCFEW, Barbara Keaveney - Secretary CCFEW. Birds & Beans (www.birdsandbeans.ca) are Canada’s premier supplier of sustainable coffee offering a wide selection of certified organic, shade grown, fairly traded and Bird Friendly (R) coffees. CCFEW (www.ccfew.org) is a community volunteer group that has been existence for over 25 years and was created to fulfil the following objectives: 1. - To promote a healthy waterfront environment through preservation and rehabilitation. 2. - To seek maximum parkland through the preservation of existing parkland on Etobicoke’s waterfront and the acquisition of additional waterfront lands for park purposes. 3. - To promote meaningful citizen involvement in decisions affecting the environment. 4. - To seek to ensure that any development or redevelopment is compatible with its surroundings in scope and scale. 5. - To promote and encourage public education about the value of preserving and enhancing our waterfront and the environment.

FREE Seniors Health and Wellness Information Fair ESS Support Services is hosting a FREE Seniors Health and Wellness Information Fair for the Etobicoke community. All are welcome! The fair will feature special exhibits dedicated to seniors’ interests and concerns, presentations, fitness and yoga demos, health screenings and live music. This is a free workshop which includes a FREE light lunch, snacks, give-aways and prizes. Workshops and activities include: oral health and falls prevention workshops, fitness and yoga demos, information about Ontario tax credits and benefits for seniors, plus more! This event is co-sponsored by OACAO and Ontario Seniors’ Secretariat. ESS Support Services is a not-for-profit agency committed to supporting seniors in their desire to remain in their own homes and community. We also have fun and rewarding volunteer opportunities working with seniors in South Etobicoke! Give us a call at 416-243-0127. For more information about the fair, please contact Lynne Parker at 416-243-0127 ext. 224 or lparker@esssupportservices.ca New Businesses now open in Lakeshore Villages West End Yoga is a newly constructed, well-equipped yoga studio in Lakeshore Village that has been customized for teaching yoga in the Iyengar tradition. West End Yoga offers regular yoga classes that are suitable for absolute beginners to more experienced practitioners, as well as two weekly restorative classes for those looking for a more gentle and supported practice. Classes at West End Yoga are relatively small (8 - 10 students) and feature individualized attention and adjustments along with demonstrations and detailed instructions. West End Yoga is located at 2733 Lake Shore Blvd. West, Unit 211. Phone: 416-2013035. www.westendyogatoronto.com Placebo Space is back. The New Year brings good news for Toronto music fans: Placebo Space is back. The all-genre, multi-disciplinary venue that was once hidden away above an auto body shop at Bloor and Lansdowne is about to make big waves at Lakeshore and Islington — and not just in our ear drums.

Part Time Coordinator wanted for Lake Shore Village BIA. Approximately 2-3 hours per week. Duties include: Event Planning, Grant Applications, Newsletters, and Communications including: Social Media, Meeting Minutes and other duties as needed. Excellent interpersonal skills, time management and ability to be self-directed. Social Media knowledge and experience as well as ability to attend a variety of meetings, times and dates as required. Marketing, Event Planning, and Communications experience preferred. Please submit resume by email to: carol@thelootlady.ca by April 2nd.

The bigger and better Placebo will be fully licensed, and there will be no more curfew (or shoes-off rule). Owner Yunior Marino carefully curates his events, so funk fans that hate harsh noise (and vice versa), have only to check online to see when Placebo will be their dance party paradise, or their circuit-bending sanctuary. The space will also continue Placebo’s reputation for audio, visual, and tactile art installations (Marino himself is an artist), plus it looks like a lot more surprises are in store. Placebo Space is located at 2877 Lake Shore Blvd. West. Phone: 647-702-2203.

Lakeshore Arts celebrates their 20th anniversary

Upcoming Events at the Assembly Hall

By Susan Nagy

One on One with Miriam Toews: Presented by Humber College, Liberal Arts March 6 at 12 pm Hear, question & meet Miriam Toews, author of The Flying Troutmans. Miriam will read selections from her works and answer questions from the audience. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please call 416675-6622 ext. 3283.

Lakeshore Arts has reached its 20th anniversary year. During this time it has engaged over 15,000 local children and youth in free, innovative activities and events; delivered over 300 programs inspiring all ages, celebrated a dynamic range of artistic disciplines and showcased the work of over 1200 artists in our exhibitions and storefront gallery.

March Break Camp: presented by M.U.S.I.C. Mammas March 11 – 15, 9 am – 3:30 pm M.U.S.I.C. Mammas presents a March Break Camp where we create a musical in one week! It will be a fun-filled week where we learn about music, art, dance, drama and so much more! Cost: $325 for the week (includes lunch, materials & t-shirt). Families save 15% when booking 2 or more kids. For more info or to register, call 416-624-3638 or visit www.music-mammas.com.

The new anniversary logo was designed by Alan Joson, a graduate of the Humber College Media Studies program and the designer of the 60 Painters Exhibition catalogue. “The Arts have contributed to the overall health and well-being of this community and Lakeshore Arts has played a key role in its revitalization and livability. We are very excited to invite our neighbours and the rest of the City to celebrate our past accomplishments, our current growth and our future endevours. This is an opportunity to showcase our artists, our work and our community.” states Executive Director, Susan Nagy.

Fleeting Moments Art Show: presented by Janice Ykema March 14 – April 11 This exhibition of acrylic paintings, by artist Janice Ykema, features fleeting moments that showcase the parallels between nature and the human condition as captured by the artist’s mind. Everyone is welcome and admission is free! For more information, please call 416-338-7255. Show runs March 14 – April 11. Gallery hours: Mon - Fri: 12 - 5 pm and Sat: 10 am - 1 pm.

A number of ARTS extravaganzas will mark this momentous occasion. Spring forward with your senses engulfed in beauty, fun, glamour & drama as we unveil the following:

Nobody’s Perfect: presented by Theatre Etobicoke March 14, 15, 16, 22, 23 at 8 pm & March 24 at 2 pm This fast-moving, laugh out loud comedy by Simon Williams centres around the life of Leonard Luftus, a novelist who enters a feminist writing contest under the female pseudonym Lulabelle Latiffa. When Lulabelle wins the contest, Leonard is pitched into a hilarious dilemma of cross-dressing and cross purposes. Tickets: Adults $22, seniors (65+) $19. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call 416-246-1889 or visit www.theatre-etobicoke.com.

April 18th - Prestige: Through the Eyes of the Artist the crown jewel of Lakeshore Arts’ programming, and where it all began. The little art show that was is now a sophisticated and acclaimed juried exhibition that attracts artists and jurors in all mediums from across the GTA and beyond. Join us at the Assembly Hall at 6pm as we celebrate the newest exhibition winners and commemorate those that won in the past. Show runs till the 14th of May. April 20th – Fun: Immerse yourself in a unique fundraising and happening! MAKE YOUR MARK, An artful extravaganza. Enjoy a night of art making, learn a new skill, get your hands dirty: a repertoire of button making, dance lessons, henna art, palm reading, paper arts, pottery wheels, silent auction and much more. Let loose your inner artist!!

Through the Eyes of the Artist Art Show: presented by Lakeshore Arts, in partnership with the Assembly Hall April 19 – May 16 A perennial favourite - come enjoy our annual juried art show, featuring works in various media by established and emerging artists. For more information or to receive an artist application, call Lakeshore Arts at 416-201-7093. Show runs April 19 – May 16. Gallery hours: Mon - Fri: 12 - 5 pm & Sat: 10 am - 1 pm.

May 3 and 4 – Glitz: Lakeshorts International Short Film Festival, boasting its third year and bringing the blue carpet and downtown glitz to the Shore. Under the search lights find movie makers, future stars and movie lovers mingling and glasses tinkling at the beautiful Assembly Hall.

An ARTful Event: presented by Lakeshore Arts April 20 at 7 pm Immerse yourself in a unique FUNdraising and happening! An ARTful Event will encourage participants to get involved and get their hands dirty: button making, dance lessons, henna art, palm reading, paper pottery wheels, silent auction and much more. People will be invited to celebrate their inner artist in an interactive night of art making. Tickets: $75 per person. For more information or to purchase a ticket, please call 416-201-7093.

Friday night join your neighbours as we celebrate our local emerging and established filmmakers as they share their creativity on celluloid. Tickets $30, $15 for under 19. Saturday night renowned film critic Richard Crouse is our guide on a cinematic trip around the world that will have you bewildered, laughing, crying and your spirit soaring. Tickets $60 includes after party. Additional events are being planned and will be announced as they are confirmed. Continue to check our website www.lakeshorearts.ca

By the Lake Book Club – James Laxer: presented by the Assembly Hall and Humber School of Creative & Performing Arts April 30 at 7 pm Join James Laxer, one of Canada’s most gifted authors, for an intimate and interactive peek behind the pages of his book, Tecumseh & Brock: The War of 1812. He’ll share the back story – his inspiration, determination and personal take on the creative process. Cost: $18. Light refreshments will be served. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, please call the Assembly Hall at 416-338-7255.

1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive • 416-338-7255 10

2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West, M-F 9:30-5, Sat 11am-2pm 416.201.7093 • www.lakeshorearts.ca

Lakeshore Arts Events SPARK PLUGS. March 4, 11, 18, 25 from 12-1pm Location: L Space Gallery. Rm: L1002 Humber College, Lakeshore Campus, 21 Colonel Samuel Smith Dr. In partnership with Humber College, Lakeshore Arts present a new lunchtime speaker series. Every Monday at noon, bring your lunch & join others from the community to learn something new. This speaker series isn’t about what you do, it’s about who you are and what fuels you! Come plug what sparks you! Please visit www.sparkplugsto.wordpress.com or for more information, contact bebhinn@lakeshorearts.ca or ashley.watson@humber.ca

YAM (youth. arts. movement). April 2, 16, 30 from 6:30-8:30pm Location: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 416.201.7093. April 2. Spoken Word Wordshop. Join YAM members will work with spoken word performer to write their own poetry. April 16. Theatre Improve. Learn basic improv techniques in this fun and interactive workshop with performer Lisa Amerongen. April 30. Zumba. Join dance instructor Ashley Seaman to learn how to Zumba! LIFE-DRAWING. April 4, 11, 18, 25 from 7:30-10pm Location: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 416.255.7165. Drop in sessions held on Thursdays here at Lakeshore Arts. $10.

YAM (youth. arts. movement). March 5 and 19 from 6:30-8:30pm Location: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 416.201.7093 March 5. Stop Motion Animation Workshop. Part 2 of the YAM Stop Motion Animation Workshop with artist, Tiana Roebuck. Sign up required. March 19. YAMmies Film Screening! Come out and view the stop motion films created by our very own YAM youth!

CARTOONING CLASS for KIDS, ages 9-12. April 8 to June 3, from 4-5pm Location: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 416.201.7093 An 8-week cartooning class led by artist Molly Grundy held every Monday, from 4-5pm. Learn illustration techniques and create your own cartoons! Registration fee of $100* *Subsidies available. Please contact Bebhinn Jennings at bebhinn@lakeshorearts.ca for more info.

WELLNESS WORKSHOP. March 6, 13, 20 (times and locations listed below) Fees: For Lakeshore Arts Members: $20 per workshop, 2 for $30 Non-Members: $25 per workshop, 2 for $40 In partnership with Arts Etobicoke and The Artist Health Alliance, Lakeshore Arts presents a series of 4 workshops on meditation and stress management. Please contact Bebhinn Jennings, Program Manager at bebhinn@lakeshorearts. ca or info@artisthealthalliance.com for more information, or to register contact www.artistshealth.com or call 416.351.0239. March 6: Arts Etobicoke. 4893 Dundas W. 1-3pm Topic: Your Health in your Hands; Managing Stress with Self-Shiatsu March 13: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 6:30-8:30pm Topic: Building Confidence and Self-Esteem March 20: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 6:30-8:30pm Topic: Creating your Future; Dealing with Financial Challenges for Self Employed Artists

THE SMITH ZONE GALLERY SPACE. Mon-Fri 9:30-5, Sat 11am-2pm Location: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 416.201.7093. Until April 11, View the work of Samantha Wehbi (Pieces of Place) and Sandra Laurin (Behind the Land of Smiles; Human Trafficking in Thailand) April 12 – May 9, presents: Pat Rice View the paintings of artist Pat Rice during this exhibition of his work. April 13 – presents an Artist Reception, from 12-2pm. An opportunity to view the work of and meet artist Pat Rice. Through the Eyes of an Artist – Opening April 18, from 6 - 8:30 pm Location: The Assembly Hall. 1 Colonel Samuel Smith Dr. Over 50 artists work will be celebrated at our 20th annual Exhibition. Show runs till May 14th. Contact the Assembly Hall 416-338-7255 for gallery hours.

LIFE-DRAWING. March 7, 14, 28, from 7:30-10pm Location: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 416.255.7165. Drop in sessions held on Thursdays here at Lakeshore Arts. $10.

Make Your Mark, an Artful Fundraiser – April 20 from 7:00-10:30pm Location: The Assembly Hall. 1 Colonel Samuel Smith Dr. Lakeshore Arts celebrates its 20th anniversary with an evening of art making including pottery, dancing, button making, photo booth, palm reading and more. Let loose your inner artist! Tickets $75 pp. includes all arts materials and refreshments. Proceeds will support our community arts and youth programs.

MARCH BREAK DRAMA INTENSIVE, for TEENS. March 11-15, 10am-4:30pm Location: 119 Mimico Ave (at Royal York). Sirius Theatrical Co. Studio at Mimico Presbyterian Church Fee: $200 Looking for something fun and dramatic to do this March Break? Learn theatre skill and techniques from Industry professionals from Costume, Set & Prop design, Acting, Music, Dancing & More. Plus, visit Ryerson University & Humber College Theatre & Film Departments. Spaces are limited, so register early! For more information, contact Kathleen Burke at 1812theatre@lakeshorearts.ca

MAY LIFE-DRAWING. May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 from 7:30-10pm Location: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 416.255.7165. Drop in sessions held on Thursdays here at Lakeshore Arts. $10.

THE SMITH ZONE GALLERY SPACE – Mon-Fri 9:30am-5pm, Sat 11am-2pm Location: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 416.201.7093 Until Match 7, Roswita Busskamp View the paintings of artist Roswita Busskamp during this exhibition of her work. March 8 to April 11, Pieces of Place, by Samantha Wehbi and Behind the Land of Smiles; Human Trafficking in Thailand, by Sandra Laurin (Photography) March 21, an Artist Reception, from 6-8pm. An opportunity to view the work of and meet artists Samantha Wehbi and Sandra Laurin. March 23, an Artist Talk, from 12-1pm. Sandra Laurin will give a presentation on her travels and inspiration behind the work featured in her current exhibition, Behind the Land of Smiles; Human Trafficking in Thailand.

Lakeshorts International Short Film Festival. Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4. Doors open at 7pm. Location: The Assembly Hall. 21 Colonel Samuel Smith Dr. Friday night join us for a night of amazing light and local films, includes refreshments. Meet the filmmakers. Tickets $30. Students (under 19) $15. Saturday night Gala. Emcee Richard Crouse. Refreshments and after party included in the $60 ticket price. Visit www.lakeshorts.ca for more information or call 416.201.7093. THE SMITH ZONE GALLERY SPACE. Mon-Fri 9:30-5, Sat 11am-2pm Location: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 416.201.7093 Until May 9. View the Paintings of Pat Rice. May 10 – June 6, presents: Shazaam! Portraits of the Young and Brave View the photographic work of students from Second Street Junior Middle School who participated in the 2012/2013 Shazaam! Literacy through the Arts program.

SPARK PLUGS. April 1,8, 15, from 12-1pm Location: L Space Gallery. Rm: L1002 Humber College, Lakeshore Campus, 21 Colonel Samuel Smith Dr. In partnership with Humber College, Lakeshore Arts present a new lunchtime speaker series. Every Monday at noon, bring your lunch & join others from the community to learn something new. This speaker series isn’t about what you do, it’s about who you are and what fuels you! Come plug what sparks you! Please visit www.sparkplugsto.wordpress.com or for more information, contact bebhinn@lakeshorearts.ca or ashley.watson@humber.ca

YAM (youth. arts. movement). May 14, 28 from 6:30-8:30pm Location: Lakeshore Arts. 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. West. 416.201.7093. May 14. Gallery Crawl. Join YAM members and explore Queen Street West galleries. TTC fare provided. May 28. Stencil Workshop. YAM members will learn about artists like Banksy and create their own stencils.

The Pie Guys hit blackjack at the Goose BlackJack! – 21, that’s how long The Pie Guys have been performing at the Blue Goose Tavern in Mimico. The Pie Guys have performed with great Canadian talent on stage at the Blue Goose for twenty one years!

The Pie Guys thank all their loyal supporters for keeping the gig alive for 21 years and beyond! The Pie Guys wish to thank Terry Chemij - owner and all staff, past and present for their support. The Blue Goose has a long history in the Etobicoke community. In 1958 Jerry Chemij Sr. purchased the Windsor Public House in Mimico and the entire family became involved. Son, Terry was just 10 years old at the time and remembers helping his dad clean up after hours. Jerry Sr. passed away in the mid-sixties but the rest of the family carried on - wife Olga, her second husband Mark Pylypiuk and sons Terry, Jerry Jr., Ron and Bill. Today, Terry continues to operate the tavern, which was re-named The Blue Goose in 1971. The Windsor Public House opened in 1909 and was used for early Mimico town council meetings. In those days Mimico was mostly farm land and the first rail line from Toronto to Hamilton passed right by the taverns doors. The train that travelled this route was nicknamed The Blue Goose. According to Terry, legend has it that the engineer would occasionally make an unscheduled stop at the tavern for a quick pint if he was running ahead of schedule. The Blue Goose Tavern has retained much of its bygone atmosphere including a big circular bar, a stage, a pool table, a snack bar for food orders and a verandah patio. The rustic walls are adorned with photographs and memorabilia - some signed by local sports heroes.

The face of the band may have changed over the 21 years, but the unique musical magic of The Pie Guys has certainly remained a long standing tradition. The Pie Guys give thanks to all the great musicians and singers who have graced the Blue Goose stage. Rod Phillips would be proud!

Bands perform every Friday and Saturday night and the Sunday afternoon house band, The Pie Guys, has been a weekly fixture for 21 years!

The Pie Guys members Eric Boucher and Curtis Smith comment, “playing this gig just keeps getting better and better. It’s the most fun you’re going to get out of a Sunday” and drummer Danny Lockwood adds “bananas!”

The Blue Goose Tavern is situated at 1 Blue Goose Street, just east of Royal York Road, south of The Queensway, beside the Mimico Go station, in south Etobicoke. Phone 416-255-2442.

NOW AVAILABLE – ONLINE TICKETS

www.e-m-p.ca 416-248-0410 All seats reserved

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Burnhamthorpe Auditorium 500 The East Mall, Etobicoke

(just north of Burnhamthorpe Rd at Hwy 427)

Downtown quality with the price and convenience of community theatre!

Village Vinyl Welcomes Home Eugene Smith Eugene Smith is a venerable icon of the Canadian music industry, with more than 50 years in the business and over 200 original tunes to his credit, he has shared the stage with such great artists of the music world as Gordon Lightfoot, k.d. Lang, David Clayton Thomas, King Curtis, Willie Dixon, Lenny Breau, Peter Tosh, Bo Diddley, John Lee Hooker, The Beach Boys and The Dave Clark Five. Eugene was born here in the Lake Shore Village and lived on 6th Street as a boy and young man. This is where he cut his musical teeth and on Sunday January 13 he returned to his boyhood community to entertain new and old fans alike at Village Vinyl Music Emporium & Café’s weekly “Sunday Session’. These free live music sessions are held every Sunday between 2:00 and 5:00 P.M. to support and promote local musicians. Eugene’s appearance was the fortunate result of a conversation between the owners of Village Vinyl and a regular customer of theirs who knew Eugene and thought he might enjoy returning to his old stompin’ grounds to play some tunes for what turned out to be a very packed house! The ‘village’ was also home of course to his parent’s, father Al Lucas, who played stand-up bass for such greats as Duke Ellington and James Brown and mother, Valeire Abbot who was a well-known Toronto jazz pianist and vocalist who was invited by Louis Armstrong to tour as a jazz singer with his orchestra. With this degree of talent to nurture him he began his own musical career at the young age of 14. He performed as Jay Smith and the Majestics in the early days of the wild and wonderful 60’s and then played Toronto and toured the United States as a singer with Ronnie Hawkins and the infamous Hawks. In the 70’s he fronted the R&B Lucifer and then became a solo artist until the early 80’s when he formed Eugene Smith and The warm Up Band. This is the group that developed a large and loyal Canadian fan base wherever they appeared and gave us such great tunes as “You Are What You Are”, “Hoot’nany”, “Walk Away” and “Peace of Mind”.

Today Eugene lives on Vancouver Island and performs in Canada and abroad as a solo artist .He brings a warmth and generosity to his performances that entertains and captivates audiences wherever he goes. His prodigious vocal talents are supported by solid rhythms from his unusual 4 string tenor guitar, and he holds as well in his bag of tricks a variety of musical instruments including the harmonica, kalimba, jaw harp and djembe. Each show is delivered in his own unique, humorous and entertaining style, bringing to each performance a sense of harmony and the magical power of music! Just ask anyone who was fortunate enough to have enjoyed his recent performance in the ‘Village’.

Emerging filmmakers premier their work at 2013 Lakeshorts! By Susan Nagy

Last year at the Lakeshorts 2012 Festival, Robert Murray and ScotiaBank GBM stepped up as one of our amazing sponsors the festival. One of the caveats of their donation was for Lakeshorts, Lakeshore Arts and Fifth Ground Productions to create a way to engage emerging filmmakers. Hence was born, the Lakeshorts Future Filmmakers Intensive (LFFI) program. A call was made to four local Etobicoke high schools and after a rigorous interview process, 6 students were chosen from dozens to participate; Julia Galle, Sam Hughes, Billy McCormick, Joseph Milando, Jesse Sanderson and Megan Diercks. The intensive took place on November 9, 10, 11, 24 and 25. The student’s mission was to produce a short film from beginning to finish. Described as jumping on the moving train of making a film, the students worked under industry professionals including screenwriter and novelist Brad Smith, feature film director Sean Garrity, and Director of Photography Luke Dabrowski. Both Mimico residents, professional makeup artist Stacey Dutrizac and professional Set Designer Deborah Burgess also lent their expertise. We were very fortunate to have local Etobicoke companies William F. White and Deluxe Post Production who both donated services and equipment. The first LFFI was a huge success culminating in a 5 min short film that will receive its premiere at this year’s 2013 Lakeshorts Film Festival’s May 3rd, Light and Local screening and the May 4th Gala. It will be an honour to celebrate these six amazing young people whose passion for film and filmmaking shines through in their collaborative piece. Renowned Canadian actors Allegra Fulton and Serain Boylan starred in the film titled “Flaked” which reveals the story of one psychiatrist who visits a colleague to unload her deep, dark secret. Tickets for the festival will be on sale in April. Visit www.lakeshorts.ca for more information.

MP Bernard Trottier Confirms Veterans Affairs Canada Will Mark 2013 as the Year of the Korean War Veteran

Councillor Mark Grimes Ward 6 Etobicoke-Lakeshore update Six years ago, I and fellow City Councillors voted to start the Mimico 20/20 revitalization study. The original intent and agreement with local stakeholders was to create a perfect vision for revitalization of aging apartments and commercial strips along Lake Shore Boulevard West, commonly known as, Mimico by the Lake.

Bernard Trottier, Member of Parliament for Etobicoke-Lakeshore, on behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today confirmed that Veterans Affairs Canada will mark 2013 as the Year of the Korean War Veteran. “Our Government is honoured to mark 2013 as the Year of the Korean War Veteran,” said Minister Blaney. “It is our duty today to pay tribute to the more than 26,000 Canadian men and women in uniform who came to the aid of the South Koreans during the Korean War, and in particular to the 516 Canadians who gave their lives in service to defend the values of peace and freedom on the Korean Peninsula.”

The lakeside buildings in this area, primarily built in the 1950’s, are a poor use of the land.

“I am honoured to join Minister Blaney in remembering the sacrifices of Korean War Veterans by marking 2013 as the Year of the Korean War Veteran,” said MP Trottier. “Men and women in uniform from our own communities were willing to leave the comfort and safety of home to defend the values of peace, freedom and democracy against the threat of tyranny. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten.”

They are built in long narrow unattractive corridors, blocking public access to the lake. The intent of the Mimico 20/20 was to create the vision for a revitalized community that would meet the needs of the existing residents while encouraging investment and improvement in the neighbourhood.

Also launched to commemorate this important part of Canadian history was an interactive Web site feature, Land of the Morning Calm, which is now available at veterans.gc.ca. This feature presents Korean War history and archival footage, interviews with Korean War Veterans and an interactive history calendar. The feature is presented in broadcast style, complete with a news anchor and video footage.

During the community outreach process residents in the community and neighbouring areas have expressed a preference for: continuing the linear waterfront park on land currently encumbered by buildings, protecting the heritage buildings in the area, and that rental units be replaced within the area or adjacent communities. Each site along the waterfront has some or all of these considerations that must be taken into account before redevelopment and revitalization can occur.

“This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice,” said Senator Yonah Martin. “In the years that followed, Korean War Veterans have diligently strived to respectfully commemorate the sacrifices of so many of their fellow Canadians. This year, our nations will pay special tribute to their sacrifices.”

Local residents, property owners and I feel strongly that the forthcoming Secondary Plan slated for City Council, will not guide us to a much needed revitalization. The current Plan does not encourage investment or provide the incentives necessary for revitalization. We can all agree that we do not want to increase the heights or densities currently proposed. Instead we must look for other means to make the 20/20 a reality. The alternative is to leave the plan sitting on the shelf for another 30 years.

The Year of the Korean War Veteran coincides with the 60th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and South Korea. The Korean War began on June 25, 1950, and active fighting ended on July 27, 1953, with the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement. Approximately 7,000 Canadians continued to serve in the tense theatre of operations between the signing of the Armistice and the end of 1955, with some Canadian troops remaining until 1957.

On January 22, 2013, I introduced a motion at Etobicoke York Community Council to try and address these issues and more. I have asked that this area be declared a Revitalization Zone. In doing so, I have asked City Planning staff to access all tools available in order to develop the economic incentives and physical features necessary revitalization – today!

The names of the 516 Canadians who died in service during the war, including the nearly 400 Canadians who lie at rest in the Republic of Korea, are inscribed in the Korean War Book of Remembrance, which is on display in the Peace Tower in Ottawa.

The Mimico 20/20 plan is not broken; it does need a significant renewed approach in order to realize the community’s need for an active and dynamic waterfront.

For more information on Canada’s role in the Korean War or the Year of the Korean War Veteran, please visit veterans.gc.ca.

Uniting the LGBT Community in the Lakeshore Villages By: Lindsay Howe

sive shift for the LGBT community and want to move back to The Shore. For the most part, I have found the Lakeshore community to be accepting and supportive - this became especially evident to me as we went out into the community and started meeting local merchants, community leaders, and residents.”

The Lakeshore Villages’ LGBT Community is a thriving group dedicated to supporting the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender population in the Lakeshore area (Mimico Village, Mimico by the Lake, Lakeshore Village / New Toronto, and Long Branch Village). Jamie Berardi, 22, and Bram Zeidenberg, 25, founded the group with the mission to raise awareness about homophobia, strengthen the sense of community amongst LGBT residents, and build a strong foundation for the future of the LGBT community on The Lakeshore.

Berardi and Zeidenberg visited the businesses in the Lakeshore Villages’ asking merchants to support their group by showcasing their Lakeshore LGBT Pride sticker on their storefront window or community board. Zeidenberg boasts about how cooperative and obliging the store merchants were, stating: “We are overwhelmed and truly grateful for the support we received: twenty-five businesses were eager to help us out and more are requesting stickers each month!” Berardi and Zeidenberg are dedicated members of their community and are eager to keep this momentum and conversation going for The Lakeshore Villages’ LGBT Community group they started. As advocates for the group, they want to get involved and connected with more groups and organizations in the GTA, one day aspiring to become a not-for-profit. They recently attended a meeting for The Lakeshore Villages’ Joint BIA (Business Improvement Association) where their story and vision was well received by the members and chairman, Councillor Mark Grimes.

Berardi and Zeidenberg understand the importance of having a strong social media presence in order to stay connected with the community by sharing details about meetings and events. Through social media, The Lakeshore Villages’ LGBT Community is able to increase awareness of the group and its initiatives. Not only are people Liking the group’s facebook page, but they are also becoming engaged in the conversation - attending meet-and-greets and events hosted by the Lakeshore Village’s LGBT Community.

Past events include a dog-walk and picnic event that ran from Amos Waites to Humber Bay Park West, a meet-and-greet at Painty McGee’s Art Supplies, and participating in Shop the Shore where they had an information booth and live music in front of Big Guy’s Coffee Shop.

The Lakeshore Villages’ LGBT Community will be launching a new campaign on March 1st called Share the Shore. On the first of each month an announcement will be posted on the group’s Facebook Page, informing its members of two local events to be held that month and the details surrounding the events. Like their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LakeshoreLGBT and stay tuned for the first day of each month for more info.

Through the group’s new Share the Shore campaign, Berardi and Zeidenberg hope to build a strong foundation for the future of The Lakeshore Villages’ LGBT Community. They want to help strengthen the LGBT community through ongoing social activities and activism. Zeidenberg assures, “We will continue to work with people in our neighbourhood to create a joint vision of what people want to see for the group. We would like to see more people attending events and helping out to shape The Lakeshore Villages’ LGBT Community group.”

As part of their vision for Share the Shore, one of their main goals is to support local businesses who support them by engaging more store owners and the community as a whole. On behalf of The Lakeshore Villages’ LGBT Community, Berardi and Zeidenberg are eager to pay it forward. “We want to show our gratitude by giving back and supporting these businesses that have supported us thus far. For our meet-ups and events, we will meet, shop, and share the heck out of these local businesses, returning the love they’ve shown us!” Zeidenberg exclaims.

Photo courtesy of group member and Lakeshore local Lain Downie. The logo is courtesy of Painty McGee’s Art Supplies by owner Jahnine Farquharson. For more information about The Lakeshore Villages’ LGBT Community, or to Like their Facebook page, visit www.facebook.com/LakeshoreLGBT.

In the Middle of Difficulty Lies Opportunity When Berardi and Zeidenberg first moved to The Lakeshore a couple years ago, they immediately fell in love with the area’s small-town charm, beautiful waterfront, affordable living options, and accessibility to downtown. But as a same-sex couple, they experienced difficulties adjusting to their new neighbourhood. Zeidenberg, Berardi, and other LGBT residents have been subjected to homophobic attacks and homophobic slurs, causing the couple to feel there was no sense of community or support for LGBT people in the area. While community groups are readily accessible in downtown Toronto and Mississauga, the LGBT presence within The Lakeshore Villages was virtually non-existent. The couple was tempted to move to a more prominently gay area of Toronto, but ultimately decided to stay in the area and not be bullied by homophobic people. Berardi and Zeidenberg took immediate action by spearheading the group now known as the Lakeshore Villages’ LGBT Community. In doing so, they have managed to help countless other individuals in the area who went through similar dismal experiences. Through their dedicated work on campaigns, and hosting meeting and events, the LGBT community of the Lakeshore Villages no longer has to feel alone, isolated, or unsafe. Creating Supportive Communities In the past couple years there has been a definite positive shift for the LGBT population in the Lakeshore area. With the help of individuals such as Jamie Berardi and Bram Zeidenberg who took a stand against adversity, the growing LGBT community in Lakeshore is finally being represented, respected and supported. Berardi states, “I have friends from the LGBT Community who moved out of the area previously because they didn’t feel a strong sense of community or that they were adequately supported. They now see and hear about this progres-

Your Florida home and taxes This winter, as many of us will travel south of the border in search of sun and fun, you may be toying with an idea of purchasing a US property to enjoy in the years to come. Here are some tax considerations to keep in mind when making this decision:

Property tax is slightly higher for non-residents in Florida. Regular residents are allowed so called homestead exemption, whereby no tax is imposed on the first 50K of property value. Non residents cannot claim this exemption.

If you use your vacation home for part of the year, and rent it for another, you will have to file US income tax as non-resident alien. Any passive income you derive from United States, including rental income, will be subject to a 30% non resident withholding tax. You may also choose to treat your rental income as business in which situation graduated tax rates will be applied on your net rental income, ie ,after accounting for all expenses associated with carrying on your rental business. You will also have to declare this income in Canada as you have to report your world wide income when filing Canadian taxes. However, based on Canada-US tax treaty, you will be allowed a foreign tax credit for the tax you paid in US, so essentially you will not be taxed twice on the same income. However, depending on you tax bracket, you may still pay some additional tax in Canada if tax paid in US is less than that in Canada.

If you do have or intend to acquire US property proper tax planning is required. It is extremely important to get thoroughly familiar with laws on both sides of the border before making a decision. Eva Kupiec, CMA and Beata Kurpiewski, CGA from Principals of Professional Accounting Office located at 3461 Lake Shore Blvd. W. www.beaccounting.ca

If you sell your property in the US. there may be a capital gain to be reported to IRS. Generally, your capital gain will be subject to non-resident withholding tax of 30%. If you pass away and leave your US property in the estate you will be subject to US estate tax. Canada does not impose estate tax so it is an alien concept to us. However, the tax burden may actually be quite significant on death if you own US property. So far, there has been an exemption, which sheltered estates with a value of less than 5 million worldwide. However, this exemption is scheduled to change to 1 million in 2013. Unless new legislation is introduced in the meantime, anyone with a US property and total value of assets at death of over 1 million, including home, life insurance etc., will be subject to US estate tax on the real property owned in US. This tax is calculated on the value of the property, and not capital gain. Such tax is also imposed on other US assets held at the time of death, including individual shares of public companies. The same exemption applies.

Vac Shack Vacuums for all your Vacuum Needs

Condominium Act Review: Stage One Findings Report

By: Lindsay Howe

Vac Shak Vacuum Sales & Service has remained a successful business in Mimico for nearly 30 years. At Vac Shak you can choose from a selection of popular brand new or previously owned vacuums with a service guarantee. Vac Shak supplies all makes of vacuums including Eureka, Hoover, and Kirby. Whether you are looking for central vacuums for individual homes and subdivisions, or industrial vacuums, Vac Shak has what you are looking for. Vac Shak’s prices are less expensive than leading retailers, as well as they offer a lifetime supply of parts for all products.

Laurel Broten, MPP Etobicoke-Lakeshore The Condominium Act is provincial legislation governing the rights and responsibilities of condominium owners, developers, corporations and boards of directors. It establishes a number of protections for condominium buyers and owners.

SMALL FOCUS BUSINESS

Condominiums have become an increasingly important part of our housing mix in Ontario – and where many Ontarians have chosen to live. Significant changes have impacted the condo industry since the Condominium Act was last examined. The current Act does not reflect major changes that have taken place in the housing market. Over one million Ontarians live in condominiums today, and that number is increasing. Condominiums now represent half of all new homes built; many did not exist when the Condominium Act came into effect. Condominium owners and residents now include more seniors, first-time homebuyers and renters. The Ontario government has undertaken the modernization of the Condominium Act, ensuring that it includes, and better protects, buyers and owners. We have engaged with owners, condominium boards, property managers, developers and others in a full consultation process that allowed interested parties to have a chance to contribute their ideas and recommendations. On January 24, 2013, Canada’s Public Policy Forum (PPF) released a report presenting the findings from Stage One of a three-part public engagement process aimed at updating Ontario’s Condominium Act.

This family owned business is run by Anthony Falsitta, with the help of his son Jordan and daughter Stephanie. Customers continue to buy their vacuums and supplies at Vac Shak because of their exceptional quality products, as well as their friendly, expert service. The Falsitta family considers their customers, not just as customers but also as friends. Owner Anthony is passionate about what he does. He describes each day on the job as special and unique because he never knows what the day will bring. Anthony is grateful to have maintained such friendly and loyal customers over the years

The report identifies five areas that Ontario’s condominium community wants to address in proposals to update the Act: Governance Dispute resolution Financial management Consumer protection Qualifications of condominium managers The Condominium Review Stage One Findings Report combines feedback that has been gathered, commencing in September 2012 when the Ontario government launched a comprehensive review of the Condominium Act, from public information sessions across the province, an innovative residents’ panel, stakeholder roundtables (including owner associations, developers, property managers, lawyers and others) and hundreds of letters and emails, including formal submissions.

All repairs are done on the premise, offering customers immediate service. When you bring your vacuum in for service, you will receive same day, or next day service. Vac Shak carries all the supplies customers need on the premise to repair your vacuum. In addition to the vacuums they carry, Vac Shak also supplies belts and solutions including wax, window cleaner, and carpet cleaner. Vac Shak is the perfect solution for janitorial supplies and repairs. Customers have come to count on Vac Shak for their Vacuum needs and it is this trustworthiness and sense of reliability that keeps customers continually coming back to Vac Shak. Visit Vac Shak and experience their exceptional customer service and quality products.

The report summarizes the issues and proposed solutions that we have heard through these channels. The Ministry of Consumer Services has posted a Discussion Guide on its website.

Vac Shak is located at 433 Royal York Rd. For more information call 416-252-8221.

The public is invited to comment on the report by March 11, 2013, via email (oncondo@ontario.ca) or by mail to: ONCONDO, Ministry of Consumer Services, 5th Floor, 777 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M7A 2J3. In Stage Two, experts in condominium issues will review the report and the public comments that it generates. These experts will then bring forward options and recommendations for updating the Act. The Ontario government is committed to modernizing the Condominium Act and the governance and management of condominiums in Ontario. We want to take the time needed to “get this right” – the issues are complex and affect Ontario homeowners. We look forward to a new Condominium Act which reflects the needs of condominium owners and will continue Ontario’s leadership in this important area.

Exploring the History of Long Branch Jane’s Walk 2013: May 4th and 5th By: Lindsay Howe

This year there will be two Long Branch dates for Jane’s Walk taking place in the first weekend of May. The first walk on Saturday, May 4th begins at the East Parking Lot at Marie Curtis Park and ends at the Lakeshore Hospital Grounds in New Toronto. The second walk takes place on Sunday, May 5th, journeying through the South end of Long Branch, from Marie Curtis Park at Lake Promenade and Forty First Street to Colonel Samuel Smith’s homestead site. Over the course of both walks, you will get to experience and explore the history and prehistory of each of the historically significant landmarks across the Village of Long Branch.

Radial bridge over Highway 2 (now Lake Shore Blvd. West) approximately 1927. Photo courtesy of the Durance family

Jaan Pill and Mike James lead the walks, sharing their detailed commentary and historical insights about the rich history associated with the land. Jaan Pill is a local resident and member of the Long Branch Historical Society. Mike James is a retired school principal who holds fond memories of growing up in the area in the 1960’s. Through Jane’s Walk, Pill and James bring together local residents to share historical insights and interact with one another, while observing and appreciating the natural landscape. Last year’s Jane’s Walk took place on May 6th, and was a huge success. The weather was beautiful, and over 80 people attended, eager to learn about local history from the talented guest speakers Pill and James. Pill speaks about the success of Jane’s Walk 2012 and his anticipation for this year’s walk stating, “We

Laurel Broten, MPP Etobicoke-Lakeshore Invites you to a

March Break Free Family Skate Thursday, March 14, 2013 2:00pm – 4:00pm

MasterCard Centre for Hockey Excellence 400 Kipling Avenue (at New Toronto Street)

were very pleased with the turnout at last year’s South Long Branch Jane’s Walk. We had some great conversations, and we look forward to continuing those conversations at the two Jane’s Walks that we are organizing this year”. At last year’s walk, more ground was covered than time was allotted for. Therefore this year the walk has been divided into two separate walks in order to cover more ground and topics. If attendance is as large as last year, groups may be broken down into two or three smaller groups to give an opportunity for more quality conversations. On Saturday, May 4th from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. the first Jane’s Walk will commence at the East Parking Lot at Marie Curtis Park, at the mouth of the Etobicoke Creek, and finish off at Lakeshore Hospital Grounds in New Toronto. This first walk will focus on such historically significant sites as Lake Promenade, the Long Branch Resort, and the Lakeshore Hospital Grounds. Many residents were very fascinated to hear that Lake Promenade once extended way past FortySecond Street, and this area was previously a cottage community. When Hurricane Hazel hit in 1954 much of the plain bordering the river was flooded, wiping out many of the houses and cottages in the area. Fragments of the cottage community can still be located among the remaining houses in Long Branch. Come out to Jane’s Walk to learn more about and experience Lake Promenade, Long Branch as a cottage community, the Lakeshore Hospital Grounds and much more. The second Jane’s Walk takes place on Sunday, May 5th from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. The walk commences at Marie Curtis Park and finishes off at the colonel’s homestead site near the corner of Forty First Street and Lake Shore Blvd. West. The walk begins in Marie Curtis Park at the mouth of Etobicoke Creek, once a major wildlife habitat and scenic location. The Marie Curtis Park Revitalization Project is still underway; this long-term project aims to make the park more hospitable to visitors, and to make it a more welcoming place for the entire community. The second walk concludes with a visit to the colonel’s homestead site, where Colonel Samuel Smith, a veteran of the American Revolutionary War, built a log cabin in 1797. The school grounds of Parkview School at 85 Forty First Street are where the archaeological remains of the homestead are buried, as indicated by a preliminary archaeological survey conducted in 1984. Parkview School closed down many years ago and re-opened as St. Josaphat Catholic School this year. Come out on May 5th to learn more about Long Branch’s rich natural history, including Marie Curtis Park and the colonel’s homestead. These are among a few of the stimulating and noteworthy historical details associated with Long Branch’s heritage and landscape. Join Jaan Pill and Mike James for Jane’s Walk on Saturday May 4th and Sunday May 5th to participate in meaningful conversations about the land, experience the scenic waterfront of Etobicoke Creek, and learn about Long Branch’s natural history. For more interesting and insightful stories about Long Branch’s history visit www. preservedstories.com

Bring your skates and helmet for an afternoon of fun! Hot drinks and light refreshments will be served. Helmets are mandatory – no helmet? – loaners provided on a first come, first served basis. Constituency Office: 701 Evans Avenue, Suite 100 - Etobicoke, ON M9C 1A3 T - 416-259-2249 F - 416-259-3704 lbroten.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org