The Lakeshore Villages

2008 & 2011 Gem Award Winners for Culture

THE LAKESHORE

VILLAGES Volu me 07 • Is s ue 02 • M ay / Ju n e 2 0 1 4

www.thelakeshore.ca

engage • entertain • educate • inspire

AFFILIATE EVENT

South Etobicoke Free Event

Photo by Richard Koroll

The Mimico Village BIA Tulip Festival - May 27, 2014 The Tulip Art Project and Mimico Village Tulip Festival are community initiatives developed and sponsored by the Mimico Village BIA; a group of Royal York Road business owners working to make a difference in the South Etobicoke community. In its 12th year, the Mimico Village BIA Tulip Art Project and Tulip Festival continue to blossom. The festival celebrates the artistic talents of Etobicoke area students, who participate in the project by designing and painting 4 foot tulip forms. The tulip art designs are unveiled the day of the festival, Tuesday, May 27 from 4 – 7 pm. The tulips remain displayed throughout the spring and summer season, along Royal York Road, south of Evans Avenue.

The Mimico Village BIA welcomes all community members to attend, celebrate, and enjoy free fun events. Free events include; a rock climbing wall and obstacle course, cookie decorating, face painting, DJ dance contest, games and prizes and more! This year’s event features a special meet and greet, autograph session, dance and sing-along with the Fairy Princesses and Spiderman.

A special guest performance from Marilyn at 6:15 pm will be sure to entertain all ages. Enjoy a cup of coffee and a heart cookie at the Cynthia Ostos Remax, I love Mimico Cafe’. Join in a special presentation to Cornerstone Christian Fellowship as they receive the Community Art Award, created by Bishop Allen High school students; for Cornerstone’s outstanding commitment and contributions to the South Etobicoke community The festival takes place at Royal York Road at Evans Avenue to Newcastle Street. For full event listings please visit Facebook @ The Mimico Village BIA Tulip Art Project and Tulip Festival.

For information on taking part in the event or sponsorship please contact Maria Shaw @ tulip_fest@hotmail.com.

Spring is here!

Spring is here and I love it!

The Lakeshore Villages

I am reflecting on spring and the beauty that is beginning to bloom. If we look close we can see the tiny buds that are preparing to bloom. After this harsh winter, it has taken a long time for these tiny buds to emerge. Everything is new and fresh.

It is a nice feeling to prepare ourselves for the fresh air that is coming. We have the chance to start fresh and new with each “spring”. When we take that deep breath and smell the fresh air, we smell new life! It is beginning all around us……we can to embrace it.

Take a look outside and dream of the new life that is beginning. I enjoy the fresh new things that are coming!

Enjoy this spring issue of Lakeshore Villages.

Volume 07 | Issue 02

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 • J. Knox

It’s been a long harsh winter and many small businesses have had a difficult time.

Take the time to support small business on the Lakeshore.

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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www.migomedia.com www.rjentpub.com

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5th Annual Spring Bird Festival - Saturday May 24

By Jessica Iraci

sparrows. The park is also one of the best locations to view migrating whimbrel.

Between May 22 and 27, literally thousands of whimbrel fly past Toronto from wintering in the Caribbean and South America in order to reach their breeding grounds on the coast of the Hudson Bay Lowlands. These stopover areas are essential to replenish their energy necessary for the long journey.

The Spring Bird Festival at Colonel Samuel Smith Park is an excellent opportunity for people of all ages to learn about the vibrant bird populations that make Toronto their home. Take a guided bird tour, sponsored by The Biodiversity Education Awareness Network, see live birds and reptiles up close, participate in fun workshops and crafts, and visit a variety of educational displays.

While parks and ravines are critically important to migrating birds because of their size and quality, all stopovers, including backyards, are necessary in building a contiguous path of “islands” birds can use for rest. Experts will be on hand at the Spring Bird Festival to recommend a variety of ways people can create their own bird-friendly habitat. The festival features a “Backyard Habitat Building Workshop,” where visitors can build their own bird feeders and “nest-warmers” that provide safe material for birds to feather their nests. The festival also focuses on educating participants on the threats to birds in the city and what they can do to help protect, enhance, and make the habitat safer for all birds.

Toronto is an important annual stopover for thousands of migratory birds including over 400 different species. This natural marvel gives the city both an opportunity and a responsibility to support the safe passage of these 67,000 birds. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to see these beautiful and fascinating species including along the waterfront and in ravines. With a pair of binoculars, patience, and a little luck, anyone can develop a passion for birding.

Keeping dogs on a leash is integral to protecting the well-being of migratory and resident birds. If they are disturbed by your dog they might abandon their feeding and be too weak to reproduce by the time they reach breeding grounds. Many birds such as red-necked grebes nest in Colonel Samuel Smith Park, and are especially vulnerable. In the city of Toronto dog owners must keep their pets on a leash unless in a designated off-leash area.

The festival is hosted by the City of Toronto’s Parks, Forestry and Recreation Division, in partnership with Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Citizens Concerned about the Future of the Etobicoke Waterfront, Friends of Sam Smith Park, and the Humber Arboretum.

The Spring Bird Festival takes place on Saturday, May 24, 2014, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Colonel Samuel Smith Park, 3145 Lake Shore Blvd. W. Admission to the festival is free.

Colonel Samuel Smith Park is a popular birding destination in Etobicoke because of its proximity to Lake Ontario. This area is a natural stopover for a variety of bird species including most warblers and blackbirds, flycatchers, thrushes, and

Protect your FAMILY not your BANK Did you know that with mortgage insurance through your lender: X When you die your bank gets paid NOT your family X Just because you pay premiums, it doesn’t mean you’re covered X Your rates change when you refinance your mortgage X Your coverage decreases as you pay down your mortgage X There’s no break for being in good health The answer is personally-owned life insurance!

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SPRING INTO SONG

Selections from Broadway’s Best Evenings at 8:00 p.m.

Friday May 16, 2014 Saturday May 17, 2014

Matinée at 2:00 p.m.

Sunday May 18, 2014

Tickets $23.00 All Seats – General Seating

www.e-m-p.ca 416-248-0410 Visa or Mastercard

■

No Refunds

The Assembly Hall 1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Dr. (Kipling and Lakeshore)

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Storytelling helps heal grief Grieving the death of a loved one or offering comfort to someone in mourning is heartwrenching.

Our ability to communicate feels inadequate in the face of deep pain and tremendous loss. While platitudes such as “I’m grateful he’s no longer suffering” or “She’s in a better place” are common, the words ring hollow as they’re shared and as they’re received. No one is comforted when empty words fill the air, whether at the chapel or around the water cooler.

Yet we are naturally drawn to saying something, anything, as a way of reaching out and showing support to friends, family – even strangers – when they are suffering and filled with sorrow, regret, anger or shock.

“Let me tell you a story….” is the oldest invitation in human experience. We connect through the sharing of personal stories because we tap into the universal story of what it means to be human, to love, to forgive, to say goodbye.

For mourners, stories are especially sacred. “I remember when Bob and I used to…” or “Long before you were born, your mom and I would…” are stories that bridge the past with the present. Stories help mourners find their loved ones again. By telling stories about the dead we invite the living to reflect on Life and Death, and how the deceased has added depth to who we are and who we might become.

Gathering the community together reminds us that we are not alone. Our shared private pain is mended through the public recognition of our collective sorrow.

When we gather to mourn and honour our loved ones, everyone in the room is invited to play a role in the family plot. Reach out to the bereaved by sharing a story.

Watch how a sad, stricken face transforms into a reflective (sometimes joyful) person. If you want to comfort, tell a story. If you want comfort, ask for a story or tell one of your own. When words fail us, tell a story instead.

Brad Jones has been a funeral director in Etobicoke for over 20 years. He has listened to and been touched by thousands of stories that inspire tears, laughter and healing. Brad helps families celebrate lives well lived at Ridley Funeral Home in Mimico (3080 Lake Shore Blvd.). He can be reached at 416.259.3705 or BradJones@ RidleyFuneralHome.com Funeral Professional’s Week was May 4th to May, 11th 2014. Tuesday, May 6th marked the 100th-year anniversary of the licensed funeral service profession in Canada.

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Community Corner Pigeon Droppings Councillor Mark Grimes, honorary captain of the Mimico Wild Pigeons, drops the puck at the final game of their inaugural hockey season. Joseph Dixon (left) takes the face-off for the Wild Pigeons as team members look on. The Mimico Wild Pigeons are a philanthropic cycling team, hockey team and social club that have raised more than $100,000 to fight cancer through various fundraising efforts in Mimico and by participating in the Ride to Conquer Cancer. If you would like more information on the Mimico Wild Pigeons you can visit their facebook page and if you would like to support their fundraising efforts please visit the Ride to Conquer Cancer website www.conquercancer.ca and donate to Joseph Dixon for the Ontario Ride.

Bowling for Bursaries … BOWLERS NEEDED Community Police Liaison Committee is hosting Bowling for Bursaries on Sunday, May 25th, 2014 from 11:30 am – 3:00 pm at Bowlerama, 5429 Dundas St West, Etobicoke (parking located in rear).

Registration for this fun community event is $300 for a team of 6 players ($50 per person) $50for individual. Registration includes 3 bowling games, shoe rental and refreshments/ snacks.

You can also consider a $200 Corporate Lane Sponsorship. For those wishing to participate please contact via email at 22DIVCPLC@gmail.com. Thank you for supporting your community.

Rummage Sale St. Demetrius Ukrainian Orthodox Church located at 3338 Lake Shore Blvd. W., invited everyone to its Rummage Sale. The event will take place from 9 am – 3 pm on Friday, May 23rd and again on Saturday, May 24th.

Lakeshore LGBT strike a pose for equality The Lakeshore Villages’ LGBT Community took a stand against the homophobia in Russia and Uganda through the #LS4love (Lake Shore 4 love) photosharing social media campaign that kicked off on Wednesday, April 30th. The mission for the #LS4love campaign is for residents in Etobicoke-Lakeshore to come together to create a visual online support system for LGBT individuals in Russia and Uganda. Members of the community participated in a professional photoshoot where they had the opportunity to personally connect with these struggling LGBT communities by sharing their photo and a personal message of support.

Each photo contained the #LS4love hashtag and a quote from the participant which was tweeted and shared to LGBT support groups for Russia and Uganda.

For more information on the Lakeshore Villages’ LGBT Community group please visit www.meetup.com/lakeshorelgbt or www.facebbok.com/LakeshoreLGBT.

Team includes: Back Row - Brian Booth, Terry Durette, Warren Nazareth, John Zarand, Joe Dixon, Peter MacLennan, Ron Pauk, Andrew Marshall, Steve Wowk, Shawn Hughes. Front Row - Ken Rutledge, Ken Graydon, Brett Downing, Scott Nichol, Mark Grimes. Absent: Chris Szarka, Mark Fazio & Chris Over. Other local members of the cycling team include Christine Case, Ann Marie Pauk and Tricia Vargo.

Michael Laxer and family (Natalie, Nathaniel, Robert and Julia)

New Toronto Historical Society - The Great Escape: A Canadian Story Join us on Tuesday May 27, 2014 at LAMP, 185 Fifth Street at 7PM. Our guest speaker will be Ted Barris an award-winning journalist, author, and broadcaster.

He will speak to us about his latest book The Great Escape: A Canadian Story.

Ted will recount for us this nearly mythical WWII escape operation through the voices of those involved, many of whom trained in Canada, served RCAF bomber and fighter squadrons, were shot down over Europe, imprisoned at Stalag Luft III, and ultimately became co-conspirators in the actual Great Escape. Copies of the book can be purchased at the meeting for $35.

URGENT! 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. We are currently in need of volunteers at our South (Browns Line/Horner Ave.) location on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10-2:30pm.

LAMP 15th Annual Awards of Merit Join us on the lawn for barbeque, face painting, cotton candy, games, corn on the cob, The Etobicoke Jazz Band, Fire Truck and more .LAMP is located at 185 Fifth Street. For information call Jasmin Dooh 416-252-6471 ext. 308.

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!

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St. Leo’s Spring Fling Thursday June 5, 2014 St. Leo’s Catholic School is creating a Big Top Market as part of a fundraising initiative and are providing local artists, craft persons and vendors an opportunity to sell their wares. Deadline is May 15th, 5 pm. Mail or drop off to St. Leo’s school.

To access an application form, please email: fundraisingstleos@gmail.com

Doors Open Toronto

Presented by Great Gulf comes to Etobicoke Lakeshore May 24th & 25th some of the people from the days when the Assembly Hall was part of a Lakeshore Psychiatric Asylum. This creative engagement is a partnership between the Humber College Theatre Performance Program and the Assembly Hall.

Window Stencils are fun for all ages and so easy to do. Hold or tape one of our stencils to the window and trace the edges with our special colourful markers.

Pull the stencil away and wow! You’ve got a wonderful work of art.

The 15th annual Doors Open Toronto, presented by Great Gulf, returns to Etobicoke Lakeshore on the weekend of May 24th & 25th. This city-wide celebration offers free access for people to explore the architecture, culture and history of participating buildings in their communities. This year’s theme is: Secrets and Spirits…Exploring the Mysteries Behind the Door.

St. Margaret’s Anglican Church, New Toronto 156 Sixth Street, Etobicoke, Ontario M8V 3A5 Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Last admittance: 4:30 pm Sunday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Last admittance: 4:30 pm

For more information and additional participating buildings please visit: Doors Open Toronto www.toronto.ca/doorsopen or Humber College Lakeshore www.humber.ca/lakeshorecampus/

Doors Open is an opportunity to visit, explore and admire the architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, carved oak fittings as well as First and Second World War memorials to our local heroes. Visitors will be welcomed ‘behind the red doors’ on Sixth Street by staff on hand, along with self-guided tour brochures and a display of historical photos. Known locally as “the church that nourishes” St. Margaret’s will have a barbecue fired up for lunches from 11 am on both Saturday and Sunday. Kids’ activities including games and crafts will be available. Visitors are welcome to take photographs inside the church and all are welcome to worship on Sunday at 10:30 am.

Canadian Sufi Cultural Centre 270 Birmingham St, Toronto, ON M8V 2E4 Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Sunday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm This building accommodates guests to gather and enjoy the company of each other and gladly welcomes new visitors. Most say it is the friendliest mosque because of the warm hospitality of the members who are regulars. Guided tours are offered throughout the day.

Bosnian Islamic Centre 75 Birmingham, Etobicoke, ON M8V 2C3 Saturday: 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Last admittance: 4:30 pm Sunday: 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Last admittance: 4:30 pm

Justice Leadership Centre, Humber College Lakeshore Campus 3120 Lake Shore Blvd W Etobicoke, ON M8V 3W8 Saturday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Last admittance: 3:00 pm Visitors will tour the Crime Scene Simulation Studio and the Forensic Lab. There will be a “crime” scene set up, and the evidence will be processed in the forensic lab. Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning certainly fit the bill with respect to this year’s theme Secrets and Spirits… Exploring the Mysteries Behind the Door. Visit Lakeshore Campus to learn more about solving crimes. Guided tours are offered throughout the day.

South Etobicoke is home to many faith communities. Visit, explore and discover the architecture and history of the neighbourhood. The simple design of the mosque reflects and supports the human desire and need for spirituality, quiet contemplation and reflection. Visitors will have an opportunity to meet members of the Muslim community: neighbours, friends and fellow Canadians. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions regarding the Islamic faith and community. Guided tours will be available at 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. daily.

Light refreshments will be served.

Fashion Institute, Humber College Lakeshore Campus 3166 Lake Shore Blvd W Etobicoke, ON M8V 4B7 Saturday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Last admittance: 3:30 pm Sunday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Last admittance: 3:30 pm

Mark

Visitors can explore the history of the building and witness the transformation of fashion through the ages. Learn about the history of the old Almont Hotel and see a collection of historical fashions from the late 1800s through the 20th century. Participants will also get insight into the process of creating a window display and learn some of the behind-the-scenes secrets for creating dynamic visual displays.

Grimes

L Space Gallery, Humber College Lakeshore Campus 21 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Dr., Etobicoke, ON M8V 4B6 Saturday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Last admittance: 3:30 pm Sunday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Last admittance: 3:30 pm

Revitalizing our Community

The Centre for Teaching and Learning is hosting an exhibition “Secrets of Teaching & Learning” at the L Space Gallery from May 20 to June 20. The faculty of Humber College reveals creative teaching approaches through their journeys as mentors and learners. Through visual storytelling, their strategies and sources of inspiration expose education as a considerate and genuine craft.

Cottages and Tunnels, Humber College Lakeshore Campus 21 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Dr., Etobicoke, ON M8V 4B6 Saturday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Last admittance: 3:00 pm Sunday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Last admittance: 3:00 pm Visitors can discover what lies behind the doors of these beautiful buildings and learn the history behind the construction of the buildings now called the Cottages and see the extensive tunnel system that was once used to deliver supplies and move patients between buildings. Tours will be offered on both days at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Also visit Humber’s L Space Gallery and experience a faculty exhibit entitled “Secrets of Teaching & Learning”.

The Assembly Hall 1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Dr., Etobicoke, ON M8V 4B6 Sunday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Last admittance: 4:45 pm

Phone: 416-397-9273 Fax: 416-397-9279 Email: councillor_grimes@toronto.ca Web: markgrimes.ca

Outdoor “Secrets and Spirits” guided walking tour of the old Lakeshore Psychiatric Asylum grounds with Wayne Reeves, Chief Curator, City of Toronto.

Maximum of 20 people per tour. Preregistration is required. Email assembly@ toronto.ca or call 416-338-7255. Travel back in time! Meet and interact with

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Upcoming Events at Assembly Hall

Often forgotten items on your tax return

Through the Eyes of the Artist: presented by Lakeshore Arts in partnership with the Assembly Hall - Show runs until May 14 Come enjoy Lakeshore Arts’ annual juried art show, featuring works in various media by established and emerging artists. Admission is free and everyone is welcome! Gallery hours are Mon to Fri: 12 - 5 pm and Sat: 10 am - 1 pm. For more information, please visit www.lakeshorearts.ca.

Yes, it’s March and you start gathering papers which tell your tax story for 2013.

While many forms are familiar, such as T4, T3, T5, there are other, often forgotten, documents that you may be able to use to claim deductions or tax credits. Here is a list of less known items that you may consider putting on your tax return: 1. Investment fees – paid for investment advice, portfolio management, or accounting services. The condition here is that you generate significant passive income from investment. Although there is no specific guidelines in terms of percentages, if investment income represents significant portion of your total income than your claim will be eligible. Some brokerages specify their fees directly on T5s or T3s issued, other prepare statements detailing their charges, yet some do not provide anything unless you specifically request a statement of fees. It is definitely worthwhile to get one, as some of the fees are significant and are a direct deduction from your income.

Inner Visions: Works by Jacintha Krish, Carole Braiden, and Marilyn Pike Reception: May 30, 6:30 - 8:30 pm This show features three talented artists, each having a distinct style and palette. Carole Braiden’s paintings show colourful and abstract images including florals and landscapes. Jacintha Krish’s impressionistic work ranges from figurative, landscape to floral.

Marilyn Pike favours abstraction but includes water colours and impressionistic florals.

Show runs until June 19. Gallery hours are Mon to Fri: 12 - 5 pm and Sat: 10 am - 1 pm.

For more information please call 416-338-7255.

Music Mob 2014: presented by Lakeshore Arts, in partnership with Luminato and the TSO - May 5 at 7 pm Join a TSO musician and learn your part of Ravel’s Bolero at this community workshop.

Bring your wind instrument and a music stand. We encourage musicians of all levels to participate. This workshop will lead to a final performance at the Air Canada Centre on June 8th. Don’t miss your chance to be part of a 1000 piece orchestra! Can’t make the workshop or not a wind player? Check out http://luminatofestival.com/festival/2014/ music-mob-2014 to learn your part and see you on June 8th. For more information, please contact bebhinn@lakeshorearts.ca.

2. Professional fees – annual dues paid to professional organizations, trade unions and the like. The requirement is that your membership in a professional or trade organization is critical or necessary to your employment or business.

3. Claim for infirm dependants– credit for caring for infirm relatives who have low income. The relative must live in Canada and be dependent on you for support.

“In Step” Music and Dance Benefit Show: presented by MMM Toronto May 7 at 7 pm The 41st Annual MMM Dance Recital in cooperation with the Ukrainian community.

Special Guest performers include Yavir School of Ukrainian Dance, Yurij Petlura from the Canadian Bandurist Capella, Banjos 3 Plus 1, and students of MMM. Tickets: $20 per person, children under 12 are free. All funds raised support families of the Maidan Fallen Heroes. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.mmmcanada.ca or call 416-769-5253.

4. Claim for elderly dependants – credit for caring for elder parents, grandparents (including in-laws), who are over 65 year of age and live with you in the same household. The dependant’s income must not exceed $19,824.

5. Modifications to your home to make it safer and more accessible for the elderly - you may qualify for refundable healthy home renovation tax credit, up to $10,000 if you are a senior of a family member living with a senior.

Gardening Day: Presented by Lakeshore Environmental Gardening Society (LEGS) and the Assembly Hall - May 10, 9 am - 1 pm Join us for our 7th Annual Plant Exchange! Bring a plant, seedlings or seeds to exchange for something new! Plants will be available for a nominal fee. There will also be refreshments, information on plants, planting & local resources. Gardening recycling depot: bring plastic pots, trays, and tools you no longer need. For more information, please visit www.legsetobicoke.ca or call 416-338-7255.

6. Medical premiums –paid to a private health plan either directly or through your employer. Some employers provide the total of your contributions in box 85 on your T4, yet many do not report your payments at all. In that case, you can verify your last paystub’s year to date amount for your own contributions to a private health plan.

Spring Into Song: presented by Etobicoke Musical Productions May 16, 17 at 8 pm and May 18 at 2 pm Join us this spring as we celebrate the history of Broadway through song and dance.

Paying tribute to some of the great musical theatre shows from Broadway’s history, our company will showcase what they do best! Hum and tap along as the company takes you on a journey through the best of the best in Broadway hits! General Admission: $23 each, eyeGO: $5 (Box Office only - Student ID required). For more information or tickets please visit www.e-m-p.net or call 416-248- 0410.

7. Legal fees – paid in divorce proceedings to obtain rights to support payments (child or spousal). You should ask your lawyer to prepare a letter detailing fees paid. Given the amounts that are usually in question, you may need to send supporting documents to CRA.

Rock N’ Roll Reverie: presented by Kids on Broadway May 23 and 24 at 7 pm Kids on Broadway presents “Rock N’ Roll Reverie” a 60’s musical filled with fun and laughter. Suitable for ages 8 and up. Tickets: $25 – reserved seating. For more information or to purchase tickets, please email diane.relyea@sympatico.ca or call 416-237-9738.

If you think that you may have omitted one of these important deductions or tax credits consider filing an adjustment for prior years. And for the current year, review your files one more time to see if there is anything from the above list that you may claim.

Doors Open Toronto: presented by City of Toronto May 25, 10 am – 5 pm Join us this Doors Open! We have many exciting activities for all ages! Guided and selfguided tours: Discover the stories of the Assembly Hall, from its 1898 beginnings to its present day application as a vibrant City of Toronto cultural centre. Window Stencils: This is loads of fun for all ages and so easy to do. Travel back in time: Meet and interact with some of the people from the days when the Assembly Hall was part of a Lakeshore Psychiatric Hospital. For more information, please e-mail assembly@toronto.ca or call 416-338-7255.

Eva Kupiec, CMA and Beata Kurpiewski, CGA Principals of Professional Accounting Office at 3461 Lake Shore Blvd. W. www.beaccounting.ca

Seize the Day!: presented by the Queensmen Male Chorus May 27 at 7:30 pm Seize The Day! Celebrate the sunshine season with the Queensmen Male Chorus and voices from the Karen Kain School of the Arts. Tickets: $18 in advance or $20 at the door.

Children under 12 are free. For more information or to purchase tickets, please e-mail thequeensmenmalechorus@gmail.com or call 416-239-1531.

1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive • 416-338-7255 12

Cyrus Chan

Financial Advisor .

2990 Lake Shore Blvd W Toronto, ON M8V 1J9 416-251-8212

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Summer is on its way, let’s get moving

Etobicoke Musical Productions Celebrates Spring… Broadway Style!

A recent study has shown that regular exercise can help senior women boost the size of the brain area used for memory and learning.

The seeds are planted, the garden is watered and the cast is ready to burst onto the scene in Etobicoke Musical Productions’ latest show, SPRING INTO SONG: Selections from Broadway’s Best!

Older women boost memory area of brain with aerobic exercise The study involved women between the age of 70 and 80 that were living independently at home. Regular aerobic exercise appeared to boost the size of the area of the brain (hippocampus) involved in verbal memory and learning among these women whose intellectual capacity had been affected by age.

This concert, unlike anything the company has done before, is blooming with handpicked musical numbers and an all-star cast, including perennial EMP performers as well as fresh new members. It’s a journey through the best of the best in Broadway hits and it can’t be missed!

With artistic direction by Allison Beula and musical direction by Mark Peterson, two seasoned EMP directors, there is no limit to the excitement that can ensue.

The stage is set for duos, trios, solos, ensembles, quartets… a little bit of everything.

“We are thrilled to be back working at EMP and with such talented people, from new members to seasoned favourites,” says Beula. “The beauty of a cabaret format is that this is an unbelievable chance to custom tailor musical pieces that are just perfect for the individuals involved, it’s a real thrill to get this opportunity.” Peterson is quick to point out the impressive vocals and harmonies that they can’t wait to showcase. “At just the second rehearsal, we knew we had something special here,” he says. “The song choices suit their voices so perfectly and as a whole, it’s just a beautiful sound.”

The hippocampus has become a focus of interest in dementia research because it is the area of the brain involved in verbal memory and learning, but it is very sensitive to the effects of aging and neurological damage, according to the report on the study published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

With a limited three show run May 16, 17 and 18, the group is hoping to rouse its member-base and fill the house at their host venue The Assembly Hall, at Kipling and Lakeshore. It is a new start and new format for the company, who aim to continue providing such exciting, professional, local and affordable shows for years to come.

The researchers tested the impact of different types of exercise on the hippocampal volume of 86 women who said they had mild memory problems, known as mild cognitive impairment -- and a common risk factor for dementia.

Roughly equal numbers of them were assigned to either twice weekly hour long sessions of aerobic training (brisk walking); or resistance training, such as lunges, squats, and weights; or balance and muscle toning exercises, for a period of six months.

Join Etobicoke Musical Productions this Victoria Day weekend and ring in spring while satisfying your need for a high-energy musical theatre experience.

Shows May 16 at 8pm, May 17 at 8pm and May 18 for a matinee performance at 2pm. Tickets are $23 and available at www.e-m-p.ca or phone the box office at 416-248-0410. To encourage youth involvement in the arts, EMP also has a partnership with eyeGo.org for student discounts. Visit the website or call the box office for more details.

Aerobic exercise seems to be able to slow the shrinkage of the hippocampus and maintain the volume in a group of women who are at risk of developing dementia, they say.

Spring is in the ‘ear’ - see you at the show!

Contact Tom MacFarlane, president of EMP, at tjmacfarlane@rogers.com for any further inquiries.

And they recommend regular aerobic exercise to stave off mild cognitive decline, which is especially important, given the mounting evidence showing that regular exercise is good for cognitive function and overall brain health, and the rising toll of dementia. Worldwide, one new case of dementia is diagnosed every four seconds, with the number of those afflicted set to rise to more than 115 million by 2050, they point out.

Etobicoke Musical Productions is a not-for-profit, registered charity, offering professional quality theatre to the local West Toronto area at an affordable cost. EMP strives to raise interest and participation in theatrical arts in the community and to offer a stage to showcase our best local talent. www.e-m-p.ca.

The research was made available by the BMJ-British Medical Journal Gael Hepworth is Director of Care with Premier Homecare Services in Etobicoke.

She can be contacted at 416-623-8229. Premieretobicoke.com

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Bernard Trottier,

Councillor Mark Grimes,

MP Etobicoke-Lakeshore update

Ward 6 Etobicoke-Lakeshore update As the saying goes, there are two seasons in Toronto, winter and construction. In 2014, the City is undertaking several major projects including road resurfacing projects, to continue improving road conditions for all users.

Summer is the time of year when we appreciate living next to Lake Ontario.

Summer breezes off the lake keep us cool and recreational opportunities abound. The Great Lakes contain 21% of the world’s fresh water, with a surface area about equal to that of the United Kingdom. Since the Great Lakes were formed about 10,000 years ago, at the end of the last glacial period, their greatest threat has been human activity. Millions of North Americans are drawn to the shores of the Great Lakes for the industry, commerce and shipping opportunities that the Lakes provide. It is our duty to be responsible stewards of this great asset.

The City will spend more than $215 million this year to improve the quality of Toronto’s roads, expressways and bridges. In 2013, my colleagues and I approved a 10-year rehabilitation plan that will see $30 million a year in extra funding for the rehabilitation of major roadways across the city.

Pollution, lake levels and invasive species are three major concerns to all of us.

As early as 1912, Canada and the USA formed the International Joint Commission (IJC) to resolve conflicts over shared waters, such as sewage discharges that led to cholera outbreaks.

Major road work planned for 2014 includes Markham Road from Kingston Road to Lawrence Avenue, Victoria Park Avenue from Eglinton Avenue to Lawrence Avenue, Wilson Avenue from Bathurst Street to Dufferin Street, Finch Avenue from Kipling Avenue to Highway 27, and Kipling Avenue from Bloor Street to Dixon Road. In all, it is expected that the City will complete 185 kilometres of road resurfacing in 2014.

Through the 20th century, the IJC served as the forum for agreeing on manageable flows between the Lakes, affected by major projects such as Niagara Falls hydroelectricity generation and the dredging for the St. Lawrence Seaway. In response to severe degradation of water quality in the Great Lakes during the post-World War II period, Canada and the USA signed the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) in 1972. Since that time, Great Lakes water quality has had a comeback, but we need to stay the course towards greater improvement.

The most major disruption is the multiyear project to address the aging Gardiner Expressway. Over the next few years two lanes will be closed as crews work to replace the bridge deck. The inconveniences will be major but the work is necessary for the future safety of the roadway.

An additional $60 million will be spent on other work, including road work in conjunction with watermain and sewer replacement, as well as public realm initiatives such as boulevard greening and the installation of new planters and trees.

The GLWQA has contributed to the quality of life of millions of Canadians by identifying shared priorities and coordinating actions to restore and protect the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the Great Lakes. The GLWQA was amended in 2012 to establish new cooperative scientific research and monitoring priorities, and to establish joint commitments.

The City also wants to minimize disruption to the travelling public while fixing the roads, but with so much necessary work, there will be inconveniences.

Following the 1987 revisions to the GLWQA, the Great Lakes Sustainability Fund (GLSF) was established to provide a more specific framework for restoring Areas of Concerns (AOCs) in Ontario. Toronto and Region is one of 14 AOCs in Ontario, with responsibility for the Lake Ontario shoreline and six watersheds in Toronto including Humber River, Mimico Creek and Etobicoke Creek. The federal government has worked with the Province, municipalities and local partners like the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) to implement over 900 projects since 1989 in wastewater effluent quality, contaminated sediment remediation and wildlife habitat rehabilitation.

The City has repaired an average of 200,000 potholes per year over the past five years. This year’s rough winter has been hard on the roads with over 175 000 already filled to date. An additional $4 million was approved in the past weeks to help address this increase. Residents are asked to use the City’s online service at www.toronto.ca/311 to report potholes so crews can be assigned to fix them. On that web page, simply click on “roads” to create a pothole service request or click on “open 311API and mobile apps” to download a mobile app to a smartphone.

Examples of current local projects funded by the GLSF are the Humber River Wetland Restoration, Effectiveness Monitoring of Aquatic Habitat Rehabilitation, the Lower Humber Weirs Mitigation projects, as well as the overall Remedial Action Plan managed by the TRCA.

As a resource to make it easier for motorists to find their way around Toronto’s streets, the City web page at www.toronto.ca/torontostreets identifies ongoing and emergency road construction, travel conditions on City roads and special events.

Despite the phenomenal growth in our great city of Toronto, and the strains on the environment that ensue, we’re making progress locally so that future generations will continue to enjoy staying connected to our natural legacy.

In addition, the public can use the City’s T.O. INview online map at www.toronto. ca/inview, which shows information about planned capital construction work taking place across the city.

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