Celebrating 20 years of community arts in Etobicoke
THE LAKESHORE
VILLAGES Volu me 06 • Is s ue 05 • D ECEM B E R 2 0 1 3
www.thelakeshore.ca
lakeshorearts.ca
IN THIS ISSUE
Ho Ho Ho - Here comes Santa Claus to the Lakeshore The jolly old elf, the star of the Etobicoke Lakeshore Santa Claus Parade, will be heading to the Lakeshore Saturday, December 7th. He’s going to be ho, ho, ho-ing and waving to all the little kids as he starts the holiday season in the Lakeshore. Along with Santa, the legendary Michael “Pinball” Clemons will be grand marshal. “Pinball”, who played 12 seasons with the Toronto Argonauts, was a member of the team when they won three Grey Cup championships. He then returned to coach the team and won another Grey Cup. Later he was the CEO of the Argos and in 2009 became vice-chairman of the football club. One of the most popular professional athletes in the history of Toronto, he will lead the 23rd annual parade which welcomes Santa Claus to the Lakeshore. This year he has a lot of surprises in that big sack on the back of his parade float. It’s going to be a winter wonderland for sports enthusiasts of all ages and a magic time for princesses, pirates and even the Grinch. This is the 23rd annual Etobicoke Lakeshore Santa Claus Parade. It starts at 10 a.m. at Dwight Avenue and travels along Lake Shore Blvd. W. to 33rd St. It is reputed to be one of the best community parades in Ontario and each year it’s the little parade that keeps growing. One of the big attractions this year, besides Santa of course, is athletes. Spectators will greet Carlton, the Toronto Maple Leafs’ mascot, the Argos’ mascot Jason, Pachi from the 2015 Pam Am Games and a representative of the Sochi Olympics. New to the parade this year will be the Toronto Maple Leafs Mobile Fan Zone and the Toronto Raptors Mobile Fan Zones. They are super vans which open up to mock dressing rooms so fans can see inside. The Toronto Furies, the women’s professional hockey team and the Junior A Lakeshore Patriots will also take part. continued on page 04 >
‘Tis the season
02
Amos Waites Park
05
Storefront Humber
06
Pumpkin Parade
07
Humber Business Focus
08
Community Corner
10
Lakeshore Arts
12
Blue Goose
13
Assembly Hall
14
Enhance CPP
16
Councillor Mark Grimes
17
Bernard Trottier, MP
18
Premier Homecare
19
‘Tis the season There is nothing like the holiday season on the Lakeshore. The holiday spirit is alive and awakened during the tree lighting in Mimico-by-the-Lake on December 1st and is brought to full tempo during the Lakeshore Santa Claus Parade on Saturday, December 7th. The holiday spirit continues on throughout the holiday season as the Lakeshore bustles with activity and local shops are decorated with holiday themed displays.
The Lakeshore Villages Volume 06 | Issue 05
Quarterly Publication ~ Circulation 30,000 Delivered by Canada Post
Enjoy holiday shopping in a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere. Get know the local business owners and let them assist you with their wealth of knowledge. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the many local shops and restaurants in your community.
For advertising information, please contact Toby Gardiner at 416-875-1409 or by e-mail at toby@rjentertainmentpublishing.com
Looking for a quiet evening from shopping? The outdoor ice skating rink is now open in Colonel Samuel Smith Park. Bundle up and enjoy a family skate and a hot chocolate.Local theatres and art groups have many productions during the holiday season. Take a few in and be amazed at all the local talent. The Lakeshore, with its diversity has something for everyone!
Editorial Contributors Lindsay Howe • J. Knox
From RJ Entertainment Publishing, we once again thank all our readers and advertisers for all that you do. We wish everyone happy holidays and a prosperous New Year. And remember to continue to shop local! Thanks to everyone for supporting our advertisers throughout the year, and for reading our community newspaper, Lakeshore Villages. The phone calls and emails that we receive in support of our paper are encouraging and reinforce the fact that our local newspapers fulfill a need within the Villages.
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.
2
www.migomedia.com www.rjentpub.com
3
Here comes Santa Claus
Come Skate with Santa
continued from front cover
With all this excitement Santa is getting into the action too. After the parade Santa is going to lace up his skates and show his skill on the ice at the Skating Trail in Colonel Sam Smith Park at the foot of Kipling Ave. Santa fans can bring their skates and their cameras while they glide around the Trail and meet with Santa.
It’s new this year! After the parade, Santa Claus will head to the Skating Trail at Colonel Sam Smith Park, lace up his skates and slide around the figure eight. Kids of all ages are invited to bring their skates and their cameras to capture the fun of skating and watch the jolly and surprisingly fit elf! Organizers think he’s inspired by all the athletes and hockey players taking part in his parade.
For the little ones, the parade will have lots of princesses and pirates. Cinderella and Snow White have their own floats and the Feast of Fools Community Theatre Group will have Snow White and the Dwarfs fairy tale characters greeting the children and the Forever Fairest Princess Parties will have princesses every little girl will love.
Also at this Skate with Santa event will be the Toronto Maple Leafs Mobile Fan Zone. This huge van contains a mock locker room inside and gives fans an inside look at the Leafs’ dressing room.
All the favourite floats are back -- the Pirate Ship, Toy Train, Polar Bear Express, Mice Choir and the Grinch. There are 15 floats and eight marching bands plus all the floats from community groups like the Scouts, Girl Guides, Storefront Humber, Etobicoke Rotary, LAMP, the Moose Lodge, Sea Cadets and the Red Hat Society to name a few.
Councillor Mark Grimes will provide free hot chocolate and there will be food samples too. Visitors are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for the Salvation Army’s Food Drive.
For all the children who have their wish-list letters to Santa ready, bring them along because Canada Post volunteers will be on hand to pick them up and deliver them to the North Pole.
Santa will be on the ice from noon to 3 p.m.
The 10th Annual Mimico-By-The-Lake
1, 2013
4
Making the Connection; Lakeview Waterfront
The Future of Amos Waites Park
By J. Knox
On Tuesday, September 17, 2013, Mississauga Ward 1 Councillor, Jim Tovey and Toronto Ward 6 Councillor Mark Grimes, co-hosted an informational open house to present the plans of the Lakeview Waterfront Connection project.
Councillor Grimes hosted a second round of community consultation for the future of Amos Waites Park on Monday November 18, 2013 at Mimico Centennial Library.
The LWC project runs along the shoreline behind the G.E. Booth Wastewater Treatment Facility in Lakeview, an area that currently does not offer public or wildlife access. The goal is to create a new natural park that will establish ecological and public linkage along the Mississauga waterfront. Ken Dion, Special Projects Manager at Toronto and Region Conservation says that the evening’s outreach was a continuation of public information sessions that have been held throughout the summer as part of an Environmental Assessment process that began in January 2012. “The feedback from the community has been mostly positive. There are some legitimate concerns that have been raised, particularly with regards to where it interacts with the existing Marie Curtis Park Beach. We continue to try and address concerns and we’ve tried to maintain the beach as its current function as a sandy beach system while still providing this great connection into the future Lakeview Waterfront project ”says Ken. An environmental component is the use of an estimated 2 million m3 of clean fill that will be generated by Peel Region over the next 10 years. In the planned creation of the ecological and public linkage the clean fill would be added to the waterfront. The plan also includes the revitalization of the Serson Creek’s western flow channel and wetland areas.
City Parks Staff and the Landscape Architecture Consultant presented the Overall Conceptual Design and Design Concept for 2014 - Phase 1 construction for the Amos Waites Park Redevelopment for review. The public is invited to participated in the future design and development of this exciting project in your community. In preparation for $1.5 million of improvements to Amos Waites Park over the next two years, City staff developed three concept plans to stimulate discussion. Since that time staff has been collecting feedback.
A final public information session is to be scheduled for this fall, before the Environmental Assessment of the final plan is to be submitted to the Ministry of Environment. For more information please visit www.creditvalleyca.ca
For more information visit www.markgrimes.ca
5
Storefront Humber’s Onsite Adult Day Program Encouraging Social Interaction and Active Participation By: Lindsay Howe
Storefront Humber is a non-profit Seniors Organization located at 2445 Lake Shore Boulevard West.
There is a small fee for services: $10 a day, and $5 for transportation if transportation is needed.
This charitable organization provides extensive programs and support for seniors and adults with disabilities. Storefront Humber has been assisting seniors and their families in the community for over 40 years. Storefront Humber serves seniors 65 years and older, as well as adults with physical or mental disabilities. With over 95 employees and over 2, 000 clients, Storefront Humber is South Etobicoke’s leading agency for seniors in the community.
Programs are led by experienced Personal Support Workers with a background in gerontology, as well as dedicated volunteers. Clients undergo an assessment to determine their capabilities and limitations, and exercises are chosen accordingly. Exercises and activities will be performed at a pace that is comfortably challenging for the client, depending on the type of disability they are coping with. A client chart is kept to track their progress. The caretakers always report back to the staff at Storefront Humber with positive responses, expressing their thankfulness for everything the staff does to assist their loved ones.
The Adult Day Program is an onsite program at Storefront Humber designed for individuals who are elderly, frail, socially isolated, physically disabled and/ or cognitively impaired. The Adult Day Program offers these adults and seniors the opportunity to socialize, participate in activities and exercises, enjoy meals, and receive counseling, personal care and minor health care. Clients will receive breakfast, followed by a fully served lunch. Activities range from exercises outdoors, word games, small trips, movies, miniature golf and shuffleboard.
Storefront Humber also offers an in home support program with a Personal Support Worker to assist individuals with their challenging needs and disabling conditions so that they can function to the best of their ability. The Personal Support Worker is available to assist clients with meal preparation, housework, personal banking, and shopping. Storefront Humber also provides escort services to the client’s medical appointments.
The Adult Day Program strives to reduce loneliness and isolation, while encouraging social interaction and active participation. The majority of the people in the program are experiencing the early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia; some are battling heart problems and post stroke symptoms. Many clients have a physical disability, and operate wheelchairs or walkers.
Storefront Humber is always looking for dedicated volunteers to assist with a variety of programs, events, and fundraisers. Become a volunteer with Storefront Humber and make a difference in your community! For more details on volunteering opportunities with Storefront Humber please call (416) 259-4207.
The Adult Day Program gives the caretaker relief from continued care of their loved one. Looking after a dependent family member 24/7 is heavy work, and the caregiver deserves a much-needed break to relax or complete chores and activities. Clients usually visit Storefront Humber once or twice a week and stay for the morning, through to the early afternoon. This keeps the program available to as many people who need the care as possible. The centre is open to clients Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and one Saturday per month.
Storefront Humber is located at 2445 Lake Shore Boulevard West (Mimico and Lake Shore Boulevard). For more information about the Adult Day Program and the other quality programs offered at Storefront Humber visit www.storefronthumber. ca. Contact Storefront Humber by phone at 416-259-4207 or by email at storefronthumber@bellnet.ca.
Homecare you can feel good about. We provide compassionate care while maintaining independence for seniors. Premier can help with: • Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care • Medication Reminders • Hospital Sitting
• Personal Care • Palliative Care • Overnight Stays
Contact us today to set up your free consultation at
416-623-8229
or infoetobicoke@homecarephs.com www.premieretobicoke.com For seniors. For independence. For quality of life.
6
Minto Longbranch releases urban towns at $340 s. f., in one of Toronto’s last-to-be developed lakeside neighbourhoods In a real estate market dominated by high-rise condos, Minto Longbranch makes a decidedly bold statement by inviting purchasers to a new lakeside community of urban townhomes at a price-point unheard of in Toronto.
Warm interiors continue into the bathroom, outfitted with a high-efficiency flush toilet, a framed glass shower, and a deep soaker tub. No detail is spared: bright master bedrooms include walk-in closets with closet systems and ample storage is cleverly incorporated throughout. Oak-grain laminate flooring, available in a variety of cool tones, is flanked by nine foot ceilings and large windows that let the outside in.
Lining Lake Shore West in the heart of one of Toronto’s most historic communities, this new neighbourhood offers purchasers a more personalized welcome home. Surrounded by parks and trails that dot south Etobicoke’s shoreline, Long Branch maintains a village appeal steeped in culture. The area’s cafes, bakeries, cheese and meat shops cater to a global medley of fine tastes while local art galleries, boutiques, and furniture stores present a distinct shopping experience. “Long Branch is one of those unexpected Toronto neighbourhoods that people often overlook but, once they visit, they want to stay,” says Carmen Dragomir of esQape design.
Inspired by early 20th century eclecticism, the facade of Minto Longbranch urban towns draw present-day parallels to the coveted rows of Brooklyn brownstones, channeling the industrial aesthetic of Long Branch’s manufacturing past. Stacked and back-to-back urban towns feature flat roofs, clean lines, and well-defined entrances. Front doors appear in regular rhythms along the street and exterior facades feature brick and stone, designed as a contemporary interpretation of house and home.
Priced from the low $200,000s, and offering 448 spacious units, Minto Longbranch is the last piece of affordable Toronto lakeside real estate. Perfect for families, young couples and single buyers, these one, two, and three bedroom towns, with up to three storeys, range from 515 to 1582 s. f.
“What distinguishes Minto’s approach at Longbranch from other urban housing is the access to useable outdoor space for all unit sizes and types,” says Arthur Muscovitch of Guthrie Muscovitch Architects. Spacious patios, balconies, and rooftop terraces create a beautiful backdrop for outdoor entertaining. Inviting front doors and porches connect each unit to the landscaped street.
An alternative to high-rise, Minto Longbranch embraces urban living with a focus on community. “There is a renewed demand for this type of urban low-rise development,” says Amanda Wilson Watkins, VP of Marketing and Sales at Minto. “We know from our success with Minto Southshore, there is a new generation of purchasers who value the warm and welcoming features of a traditional home but don’t want to sacrifice the lifestyle, contemporary design and conveniences of a condo.”
“Unique landscape features will demarcate outdoor spaces, including curved walkways with flowering shrubs, trees and benches to further enhance the pedestrian experience of arriving home,” says Paul Ferris of Ferris + Associates Inc. Framing the east and west corridor of the community, a lush courtyard leads to the neighbourhood’s new 1.2 acre park. Vast greenery and soft landscaping sweep around a playground carved from natural materials. A passive space for socializing becomes an outdoor hub for community connection.
Minto Longbranch urban towns offer spacious layouts, earthy textures and range of designer features and finishes that allow the purchaser to paint their new canvas contemporary to classic. Multi-functional kitchens are perfect for chef tables and everyday living, featuring stone and tile back splashes and granite countertops. Choice is on the menu with kitchen layouts in both L-shaped and linear with optional island configurations.
Clearly visible from Minto Longbranch, downtown Toronto is easily accessible. The 501 Queen Streetcar, named the globe’s top trolley ride by National Geographic, crosses from the east Toronto Beaches through the heart of the city right to Minto Longbranch. Departing from the Long Branch GO Station, one of the original stations along the Lake Shore West line, residents will be 15 minutes from the downtown core. To reflect the unique character of the neighbourhood, the sales centre will lead purchasers to interactive touch screens where they can explore the area. Demonstrating the urban lifestyle inside and out, kitchen vignettes are on display and a life-sized model rooftop patio is outfitted with an outdoor BBQ and furniture for entertaining. A pioneer in residential development, Minto brings its trademark commitment to sustainable housing to the Longbranch community. Minto Longbranch will be ENERGY STAR qualified and each unit will be appointed with Minto’s signature sustainable features including an extra layer of exterior insulation, saving purchasers money on monthly utility bills. Contributing to Minto Longbranch’s sustainable master plan, rainwater will be harvested for the community’s abundant green space. Minto Longbranch offers one, two and three bedroom layouts ranging from 515 s. f. to 1582 s. f., priced from the low $200,000s. The sales centre will be located at 3605 Lake Shore Boulevard West, east of Brown’s Line. To register please visit mintolongbranch.com.
jeff jones | 905.271.0929 | migo@rogers.com a w a r d
7
w i n ning
graphic
des ign
SMALL BUSINESS FOCUS
This issue’s small business features are provided by the second year students in the Public Relations Advanced Diploma program at Humber College
‘Tis always the season to give organic coffee By Amy Hicks and Jessica Delaney The Christmas season is an endless whirl of dinner parties, family gatherings, and work functions. Finding practical and enjoyable gifts can relieve at least some of the stresses that the season brings. Birds and Beans, a local organic café in Mimico, offers creative Christmas gifts that can be enjoyed well into the New Year. A subscription service caters for the ultimate coffee lover. It offers unique and thoughtful Bird Friendly and fair trade coffee delivered to the gift recipient’s doorstep on a monthly basis. Birds and Beans also offers a gift basket that includes the café’s organic coffee and tea, Rainforest Alliance chocolate bars, and a festive mug. Since opening the café eight years ago, it has been important for Birds and Beans owners, David and Madeleine Pritchard to offer the ‘best of the bean’. “ We’re conservationists, it seems like coffee is a big part of people’s lives, I always believed if you can change something you do every day then that’s a pretty good place to start,” says David. Enjoying organic and eco-friendly coffee in a local café is a comfort that brings people together. The holiday season is meant to be enjoyed, even if it’s the simple joy of relaxing with a comforting cup of coffee. With countless holiday commitments over the Christmas season, organic coffee and creative gifts will make for a smooth, rich Christmas season just like the Birds and Beans coffee.
Tatsu’s Bread creates an aroma to excite your appetite By Donna Tran and Vanessa Lopez
It is easy to miss the small bakery at the corner of Lakeshore and Kipling, but it is a discovery you’ll be pleased you made. You’re warmly greeted by kind smiles and words of welcome. The wooden tables and chairs create a simple, yet cozy atmosphere that adds to the warm feeling of devouring freshly baked goods. The café’s menu consists of handcrafted, Artisan goods that are baked daily. The menu ranges from trade free coffee, macaroons, a sweet meringue-based confection, to freshly made sandwiches like the student favourite, Brie served on ancient grain bread with basil pesto spread, tomatoes and mixed greens. “We offer a distinctly flavourful and wholesome taste experience. I believe that the heritage and craftsmanship put into each and every loaf is a testimony to the values instilled in me by my masters,” said Tatsunobu Sato, master baker at Tatsu’s Bread. An attribute that gives Tatsu’s Bakery a modern edge over other bakeries is its use of organic ingredients with no artificial flavours and the use of soymilk as an alternative to milk. A stand out item on the menu has to be the granola bars. They’re sweet and soft; the bars do not contain milk, eggs or nuts. Next time you need to warm up from the December weather, drop by Tatsu’s Bakery to savour a distinct, flavourful and wholesome taste experience. Wi-Fi is free.
The Village Butcher is a cut above the rest By Graeme Morrison The counters are lined with the freshest local meats. The freezers are loaded with succulent tourtière. Behind the counter, the Village Butcher greets his customers with a warm welcome. Mark Ali, owner of the Village Butcher, takes a genuine interest in his customers and shows an inherited passion for his work. “I’m a fourth generation butcher,” he said, while adding jokingly, “It’s one of those things I couldn’t get out of.” For nearly eight years in the Lakeshore area, the business has provided a fresh take on organic meats. It has put an emphasis on getting its supplies from local farms. It is this sense of loyalty that has endeared the store to its local clientele. “The people in your community make you who you are,” says Ali, “It’s good to give back.” The Village Butcher offers many ways to give back. From its delectable duck to its customizable gift baskets, it offers something for any prospective gift giver. The best-selling holiday products tend to be the ice wine cranberry sauce and the homemade turkey gravy. What is the key to delivering the best product during such a busy time of the year? “You can’t prepare all the food in advance,” Ali said, “We have hundreds of customers coming in over the holidays, so we have to put in the extra work every day to ensure the product is as fresh as possible.” Whether it be preparing the holiday turkey, or assembling gift baskets, it is clear that freshness and friendliness are the Village Butcher’s mantras.
8
SMALL BUSINESS FOCUS
Remembrance Day 2013
continued
Find big comfort in a little coffee shop
South Etobicoke celebrated Remembrance Day at a few locations. On Sunday, Nov. 10. Royal Canadian Legion Branch 3 (150 Eighth St.) held a service at St. Margaret’s Church, 156 Sixth St. Legion member met at branch at 10:30 a.m. and marched to the church for the service.
By Jillian Ross, Robin Young, Scott Inglis The Big Guy’s coffee shop might be little, but the Lakeshore community has been impacted in a big way.
On Monday, November 11, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 3 held its Remembrance Day service at 11 a.m. in front of the branch, 150 Eighth St. At 2 p.m., branch members conducted a service at Vimy Ridge parkette on Lake Shore Boulevard West at Queens Avenue in Mimico.
Owner and Big Guy himself Steven Turner welcomes every customer to sit and enjoy a cup of fair trade coffee. Turner’s little coffee shop has become a second home for many of his regulars. It has become a place where guests can even serve themselves if the barista is engrossed in one of the many interesting conversations you’re sure to overhear while getting your daily fix.
Also on Monday, November 11th, Branch 101 held its ceremony at 10:45 a.m. in front of the branch, 3850 Lake Shore Blvd. W. near the Long Branch GO Station. Another service was held at the branch’s cenotaph at 11:30 a.m.
“There are no rules in here; people can come and talk about whatever they want and everyone has an opinion. I have heard some pretty interesting things about my regulars,” laughs Turner, “Things I would rather not know!” This little coffee shop has been in business nearly six years and is filled with original artwork by Turner’s right hand lady at the grinder, Jessie, as well as a rotating roster of local artists. With its eclectic mix of furniture, including an electric fireplace, Big Guy’s offers a comforting, intimate coffee experience. Most of Turner’s business comes from Lakeshore locals, so for him, building a community within the coffee shop is a top priority. Many locals still don’t know about this diamond in the rough that offers something entirely different from your typical Starbucks or Tim Hortons, the opportunity to be a part of the Big Guy’s Little Coffee Shop family. The Big Guy’s Little Coffee Shop is the perfect place to drop in for a cup of joe before heading out into the hustle and bustle of this holiday season. So why not drop by, meet your neighbours and see for yourself what the big fuss is about in this little coffee shop?
9
COMMUNITY CORNER
The Lakeshore Villages w w w. t h e l a ke s h o r e. ca
St. Demetrius Ukrainian Orthodox Church upcoming events The seniors of St. Demetrius Ukrainian Orthodox Church (3338 Lake Shore Blvd. W.) invite you and your friends to enjoy a delicious home cooked meal. The next lunch will take place on Thursday, December 5th from 11:30 am until 2:00 pm.
St. Leo’s clean up On Friday, November 1st, the students of St. Leo elementary school took to the neighbourhood streets for their first Annual Community Clean up Drive. The goal, to raise enough money in three years to have a smart board and two working computers in every class. At this point, this is far from reality as they estimate this expenditure to be about $70,000 but along with the help of the new principal, the teachers, parents, community members and most of all the kids of St. Leo, they are determine to bring the school into the technological age one way or another.
Ukrainian Canadian Women’s Association The Sophia Rusova Branch cordially invites you and your friends to their Christmas Bazaar on Sunday, December 8th from noon until 3 pm at 3338 Lake Shore Blvd. W. Drop by for a delicious hot lunch, Christmas items, baking, varenyky, cabbage rolls and crafts. Celebrating Sports Excellence Celebrating its’ 19th year, the Etobicoke Sports Hall of Fame was proud to have its’ milestone 19th Annual Induction Dinner at the Old Mill Inn. This year’s inductees include sporting legends from the Etobicoke community. 2013 inductees are Reade Baker, Doug Fox, Bob Nadin, Gerry O’Flaherty, Sami Jo Small and Jim Sturino. The celebration had over 400 people in attendance to honour the athletes. Pictured – ESHOF Governor Rick Luciani and 2013 inductee Sami Jo Small.
Lakeshore Culture Days On September 27, 28th and 29th Culture Days invaded Etobicoke Lakeshore once again. Last year the festival was a huge success and this year was even bigger. The Culture Days festival is a Canada-wide celebration of the arts and cultural life of local communities. In a joint venture, Humber College and Lakeshore Arts presented over twenty, free and interactive activities throughout the festival weekend. All the activities were free to attend and interactive for participants. If you are interested in volunteering or hosting a cultural event for Lakeshore Culture Days 2014 contact Lakeshore Arts at info@lakeshorearts.ca or 416-2017093.
Here is just one way the students are pitching in to make this happen... Each student agreed to join “The St. Leo’s Clean-Up Crew”, so on Friday, November 1st, students spread out around our community to help clean-up after Halloween night. With rubber gloves on and garbage bags in hand, students learned the value of community service while raising money for computers for their school. Each student had been gathering pledges over the last few weeks with one hundred percent of the money going directly to the computer fund. The student that raised the most money won an Ipod and the class that raised the most money won a free pizza lunch. The students worked really hard to raise as much money as they could and ended up collecting almost 50 bags of garbage. If you are interested in donating to this cause, please contact fundraisingstleos@ gmail.com.
1st Annual Pumpkin Donation On Sunday, October 20th, over 450 pumpkins were donated by local real estate realtor Roberta Bendera. Proceeds from the day, an outstanding $2115, was donated to the Rotary Peace Park Rejuvenation Committee. They will use the money towards the construction of a new playground at the park located at 25 Eleventh Street. Many volunteers participated and Roberta commented, “I couldn’t have been done without them! I was very grateful for their assistance!” Sadie Marucci, also a volunteer, operated a hot chocolate stand. Since it was a cool day, she was extremely busy! The day also included a visit from local firefighters who dropped by with their truck and allowed the kids to sit in it and pretend to be firefighters. The Second Annual Pumpkin Donation is already in the works and will definitely be bigger!
Faulkner Lane On Saturday, September 7th the road behind Faulkner’s Appliance Centre was renamed Alex Faulkner Lane to honour Alex’s long time commitment to community service. Councillor Mark Grimes presented Alex Faulkner and his son Gord the street sign during the ceremony. Long Branch Jane’s Walk Jane’s Walk celebrates the ideas and legacy of urbanist Jane Jacobs by getting people out exploring their neighbourhood. A Jane’s Walk is typically a walking conversation. It’s an opportunity for people to share information about their local community. Such walks are held in the first week of May in cities around the world. The next Jane’s Walk in Long Branch will take place on May 3 and 4, 2014 from 10:30 am until noon and will start at Marie Curtis Park. For more information visit www.preservedstories.com or www.janeswalk.net.
Franklin Horner Community Centre upcoming events 432 Horner Avenue, Toronto 416-252-6822
Breakfast with Santa Come on Saturday, December 14th from 9:00 - 11:00 am for Breakfast with Santa! $5 for All you can eat pancakes, juice, timbits, hot chocolate, cookie decorating, face painting, henna and bouncey obstacle course. Please bring a non-perishable item for our food drive.
Horner Ave. Senior Centre events Tinsel Tea and Craft Sale will take place at 320 Horner Ave. on Sat. November 30th from 10 am -2 pm. They will have a wide assortment of baked goods and handcrafted items for sale. Light refreshments and treats will be served in their Tea Room. Please come out and support this fundraiser.
Christmas Day Dinner: Home Alone Seniors Edition Join us on Wednesday, December 25th for our 3rd annual dinner for seniors who are alone on Christmas Day from 2:00 - 5:00 pm. Featuring a full course turkey dinner, appetizers, refreshments and Kris Kringle. Tickets are $5. Purchase tickets by Dec. 10 Fashion Show Please join us for our upcoming Fashion Show and Luncheon on Wednesday, January 15 at 1pm . Don’t miss this exciting event - a gourmet lunch followed by a fashion show featuring senior fashions for senior women. Clothing by Tan Jay & Alia. Cost is $15 and the tickets are available at the centre.
City run classes begin Sept. 30th. Horner Ave. Seniors Centre offers a wide assortment of classes and drop ins. Mondays: Pilates, Yoga, Billiards and Art. Tuesdays: Computer level 1&2. Woodcarving, Fit for Life (Alderwood pool), Cribbage, Billiards. Wednesday: Osteo Fit, Euchre, Billiards. Thursday: Bridge, Billiards. Friday: Tai Chi, Craft Group, Zumba Gold, Billiards. Every other Saturday is Bingo.
10
COMMUNITY CORNER Shorefront Festival Despite the weather, the first Shorefront Festival took place on Saturday, September 7th. The main stage was alive as competitors belted out the music of Elvis. Congratulations to winners: first place – Calvin, second place – Jyles and third place – Jami.
Colonel Samuel Smith skating trail The skating trail, located just beside The Power House Recreation Centre is an artificial trail that runs in two meandering loops, almost like a wavy figureeight. The Colonel Samuel Smith Park skating trail is set to open for the season on November 23rd and will quickly become a busy spot for families, couples, and other casual skaters.
Pumpkin parade Mimico Square and Amos Waites Park was a spectacle of art and light as hundreds of Jack ‘o Lanterns lit up the waterfront at the Annual Pumpkin Parade on November 1. The free community event, sponsored by the Mimico-by-the-Lake BIA, was a huge success with the total count of pumpkins reaching an eerily, shadowy number of 666. Special thanks go to the following people who, through their hard work and dedication, made this event possible. Alison Juda – Co-organizer, Chris Moore – Co-organizer, Jess Molinaro-Hurd – Artwork (jmhdesign71@gmail.com) and local real estate agent, Corey Silver – Promotion (www.coreysilver.com). To the countless volunteers that helped with the event, from keeping the pumpkins lit throughout the event to the pumpkin clean-up crew, your support and enthusiasm has not gone unnoticed. And there wouldn’t have been an event if it wasn’t for local residents bringing their Jack ‘o Lanterns down to the square, showcasing their pumpkin carving talent and community spirit.
11
The Lakeshore Villages w w w. t h e l a ke s h o r e. ca
Lakeshore Arts upcoming events 2422 Lake Shore Blvd. W., 416-201-7093 www.lakeshorearts.ca
December Members Showcase – Open until December 5 Visit Lakeshore Arts and view the work of 16 artist members in this annual nonjuried show of our local talent! Life Drawing – December 5, 12, 19 from 7:30-10:00pm Location: Lakeshore Arts (2422 Lake Shore Blvd. W. | 416-201-7093) Drop-in figure drawing sessions held on Thursdays. Bring your own materials, $10.
Creature Creations – Mondays January 20 – March 10, 2014 Location: Lakeshore Arts (2422 Lake Shore Blvd. W. | 416-201-7093) Children’s Programming: Artist Shira Haberman will be leading fun illustration and sculpture workshops for kids aged 7-10 and 11-14. Participants can expect to leave the classes with awesome new arts skills and their very own hand designed puppets! After school between 4:30-5:30pm and 6:00-7:00pm. For more information email ben@lakeshorearts.ca * Registration required
Step X Step Exhibition – December 6 – February 1 View the work produced by participants during their 9 week mural training program that took place at the New Toronto Library between September and November 2013. Made possible in partnership with Mural Routes and Lakeshore Arts. (Please Note: The Gallery will be closed from December 19-January 11, 2014)
February
YAM (youth.arts.movement) – December 10 & 17 from 6:30-8:30pm Location: Lakeshore Arts (2422 Lake Shore Blvd. W. | 416-201-7093) Arts drop-in with professional facilitators!
January
Step X Step Closing Reception – February 1 from 12-2pm Location: Lakeshore Arts (2422 Lake Shore Blvd. W. | 416-201-7093) Check out the work that Step X Step participants did during their 9 week program on murals and public art!
YAM (youth.arts.movement) – January 14 from 6:30-8:30pm Location: Lakeshore Arts (2422 Lake Shore Blvd. W. | 416-201-7093) Arts drop-in with professional facilitators!
YAM (youth.arts.movement) – February 4 & 11 from 6:30-8:30pm Location: Lakeshore Arts (2422 Lake Shore Blvd. W. | 416-201-7093) Arts drop-in with professional facilitators!
Life Drawing – January 16, 23, 30 from 7:30-10:00pm Location: Lakeshore Arts (2422 Lake Shore Blvd. W. | 416-201-7093) Drop-in figure drawing sessions held on Thursdays. Bring your own materials, $10.
Life Drawing – February 6, 13, 20, 27 from 7:30-10:00pm Location: Lakeshore Arts (2422 Lake Shore Blvd. W. | 416-201-7093) Drop-in figure drawing sessions held on Thursdays. Bring your own materials, $10.
12
The Goose serves up Saturday blues On November 9th, the music landscape in South Etobicoke was enhanced with the addition of the new Saturday afternoon matinee performance at the Blue Goose. Every Saturday 3-6 pm the iconic Danny B and his band will perform true rhythm and blues at the legendary tavern.
photos by Jason George
Danny B promises to stay true to the roots of blues music and encourages everyone to join him for a fun afternoon with friends. His all-star band includes veteran local talented musicians Brian Gauci, Michael Keys, Uli Bohnet and Don Mehagan. They will perform hits from Muddy Waters, BB King, Ray Charles, Wilson Pickett and James Brown to name a few. Danny says this is one of the strongest groups he has ever played with. Blue Goose owner, Terry Chemij is thrilled to have Danny B perform at the Goose on a regular basis. Ever since Danny B packed the tavern in July, Danny and Terry have been working together to come up with a suitable arrangement.
Walker, Lefty Dizz, Steve Kennedy, Pentti (Whitey) Glan, Bernie LaBarge, Peter Cardinali, Phil Woodard and a host of others. A singer, a voiceover talent, a harmonica player and actor, Danny has the ability to adapt to any style of entertainment.
Danny B says” the Blue Goose is one of the funkiest places in the west end. The bar, with its wood and lay out, offers great acoustics. We are looking forward to pleasing the audience every Saturday. For a few hours on a Saturday afternoon, guests will think they are in the Southside of Chicago.”
The Blue Goose offers live entertainment every Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. 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.
Danny has entertained from coast to coast in Canada, the U.S., Europe and Australia. He has shared the stage and recording studio with legendary musicians such as Doug Riley (Dr. Music), David Clayton-Thomas, Jackie Richardson, Joe Sealy, Paul Novotny, Michael Kaeshammer, Big Momma Thornton, Big Moose
Are you ready? You’re paying down your mortgage. You’re saving for your child’s education.
But what about your future? Let’s help you create your financial strategy before the RRSP contribution deadline. Call me today.
Cyrus Chan
Financial Advisor .
2990 Lake Shore Blvd W Toronto, ON M8V 1J9 416-251-8212 IRT-8192-C
www.edwardjones.com
Member – Canadian Investor Protection Fund
IRT-8192-C
13
Upcoming Events at the Assembly Hall
Principal residence Every year we get a least a few questions regarding principal residence and what it means from the tax perspective. This justifies at least a few words on the topic. Principal residence is a home which you and your family ordinarily live in. Such home is exempt from tax on any capital gain arising on its sale. This exemption applies to one family unit, meaning that a wife, husband, and their minor children cannot have more than one principal home throughout the year. However, in case when a family has more than one home, for instance, a city home and a cottage, either home can be designated as principle residence as long as the family spends some time in either one. This creates an opportunity to shelter capital gain on the property that increases in value the most. You will not lose the exemption status if you need to live outside of your principal residence because of the work or school for no more than 4 years. You can rent out your residence at that time. This is provided that you do not have another principal residence at the same time.
‘Tis the Season Children’s Art Show and Community Open House presented by the Assembly Hall, sponsored by Lakeshore Village & Long Branch BIAs November 27, 6:30 – 8:30 pm Come experience the wonder of the season at our annual celebration! Vote for your favourite artworks created by children from our local schools. Enjoy diverse family friendly activities, displays and performances, including a visit from Santa. Bring a donation of new hats, scarves, gloves or socks in support of Women’s Habitat and Out of the Cold. Light refreshments served. Everyone is welcome. Art show runs Nov 27 - Dec 19. Gallery hours are Mon to Fri: 12 to 5 pm and Sat: 10 am - 1 pm. For more information, email assembly@toronto.ca or call 416-3387255.
It is also possible to designate a property as principal residence only for some years. Whenever you change the status of your residence from principle to nonprinciple, you should obtain a valuation on all of your properties. It will make it easier to calculate capital gain that may be arising.
Holidays & Hope Service: presented by Ridley Funeral Home December 4 at 7 pm Christmas is a time of happiness and excitement. It is also a time to remember loved ones who passed away. Please join us for a time of reflection, understanding, music and refreshments. Free for all to attend. To register, or for info please call 416-259-3705.
What about those who buy a fixer-upper and sell it for profit at some point? Those families should be very careful about the tax treatment of any capital gains. Generally, a capital gain means that you held an asset for a long period of time and its value went up before you decided to sell it. Such circumstances allow you to enjoy full exemption from tax on any capital gain. Many families who find themselves in that situation will not pay a cent on the increase in value of their home. However, if you engage in business of buying and selling properties on a regular basis, even though it is the home where your family lives, Canada Revenue Agency may have a different view as to the tax treatment of your capital gain and can convert it to regular income.
Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs – the Hilarious Holiday Panto! Presented by Feast of Fools Theatre December 14 & 15 at 2pm and December 14 at 7pm (Adult Show) The traditional holiday panto returns to Etobicoke with Snow White, her handsome prince, the evil Queen, and some “vertically challenged” friends. Come cheer the heroes and boo the villains as we find out who is “fairest in the land”! Adults $18; Seniors/Students $14; Children $10. For tickets of information please visit: www.feastoffoolstheatre.com or email info@feastoffoolstheatre.com Ten Paints of View Art Show: Presented by Purple Studio Painters Opening Reception: January 9, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm Art show runs January 9 – February 6 This exhibition features artwork in various media including watercolour, acrylic and mixed media. Admission is free and everyone is welcome! For more information, call 416-338-7255.
For families who substantially renovate their home, or tear it down and rebuild, it is important to know that you can recover HST paid on your supplies and labour. As long as you are not a builder by trade, you can get some money back from CRA for building or substantially renovating your principal residence. Eva Kupiec, CMA and Beata Kurpiewski, CGA Principals of Professional Accounting Office at 3461 Lake Shore Blvd. W. www.beaccounting.ca
1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive • 416-338-7255 14
15
Mark
Time to Enhance the CPP
Grimes
By Gary Hepworth, Chair, CARP Etobicoke If you accept the fact that Canadians are not saving enough for their retirement and need a better vehicle with which to do so then the settled opinion is that increasing the CPP is the best way to do that. All the other options have been tried.
Revitalizing our Community
The aim here is to put enough money away so that once the paycheques stop, by choice or not, the invested savings have earned sufficient money to allow you to draw enough to live on and preferably to maintain your standard of living. Research shows that a sizeable number of Canadians will face a significant decline in their standard of living because they are not saving enough. But also because their investments are not making enough returns – especially now in the low interest rate environment. Dollar for dollar, you can’t buy a retirement pension any more cheaply than purchasing additional units of the CPP, if you could, unless you’re lucky enough to belong to a defined benefit plan at your workplace. Two-thirds of working Canadians don’t have any workplace pension plan. The CPP or any large defined benefit plan is able to generate enough investment income to pay your lifetime pension benefits. In fact, it is not your contributions that pay for these benefits but the investment income which pays 80% of those benefits. So why has a simple retirement investment option become so political? Primarily because you can’t have it unless the politicians agree to amend the CPP. And that takes 2/3 of the provinces with 2/3 of the Canadian population plus the federal government. It happens that there is now a consensus of enough of the provinces necessary to fulfill that formula but for some reason, the federal government has refused to consent and just won’t budge – despite the fact it was federal finance minister Flaherty who proudly made the commitment in June 2010 for a modest enhancement to the CPP.
Phone: 416-397-9273 Fax: 416-397-9279 Email: councillor_grimes@toronto.ca Web: markgrimes.ca
To help make politics align with common sense, it’s time to tell our federal and provincial politicians that they should act now to improve the CPP. If not now, When?
16
Councillor Mark Grimes, Ward 6 Etobicoke-Lakeshore update
Christmas is a time for sharing
One of the key components of the City’s economic fabric is its Business Improvement Areas or BIAs
Every December when winter is around the corner, and the jolly guy in the red suit is soon to arrive, I often reflect on the spirit of Christmas. Christmas, while it is certainly a religious holiday for Christians is also a time for families and friends to come together, celebrate, be merry and prepare for the upcoming year. There are likely work/office related parties to attend, social get-together’s with neighbors’ and for some, much needed time off.
In partnership with Toronto City Council, local commercial property owners and tenants can work together to form a Business Improvement Area (BIA) to enhance the safety, look and feel of their neighbourhoods to attract more visitors to shop and dine, as well as to draw new businesses to their area. The BIAs work closely with the City of Toronto’s economic development staff to leverage BIA funds and City contributions to achieve the greatest possible improvement to storefronts and avenues. As part of their efforts, BIAs both locally and throughout the City put on and host some of Toronto’s greatest events. Locally the Shorefront Festival, Tulip Festival, Etobicoke Santa Claus Parade and many Mimico Square events are hosted by Ward 6’s BIAs. Across the City, Toronto staples such as Taste of the Danforth and Salsa on St. Clair were also founded and run by BIA volunteers.
I can’t help but think about those, at this time of the year, who may have lost dear ones recently or finding themselves saddened during the holiday season from loved ones’ who are no longer with us. Christmas for them may be hard and celebrating may not be at the forefront of their minds.
Locally, our four BIAs have taken strong steps to improve the identity of their neighbourhoods. In conjunction with my office they brought in an outside consultant to undertake a strategic review of all four BIAs and the South Etobicoke area as a whole. The review outlined a list of opportunities and strategies that can be tackled by both individual BIAs and the BIAs as a group through the Etobicoke Lakeshore Joint BIA Committee. The review looked at issues ranging from parking to street furniture, branding and the pedestrian experience.
Here is where, I believe, Christmas is a time for not merely giving but sharing. And the easiest way to give is to actually share you. Sharing, unlike giving, involves more than simply buying presents or dropping money into the local charity box. While these acts of giving are a fantastic way to help those less fortunate, sharing your time with someone can be just as impactful, especially during the Christmas season where a lot of people are grieving or simply feeling alone and “down” during the holiday season.
The results were received positively by the different BIAs and I look forward to working with them towards our shared goals.
Sharing can be done in many ways where the cost is minimal and the benefits of feeling good are strongly felt between both you and the other person(s). Volunteering is one way, either at a local food bank, toy drive or shelter. Or a simple act of reaching out to friends/ neighbors or distant family members by either going for a walk or taking time to just listen to them over coffee. No act of sharing is ever too little and sharing is a clear example of the Spirit of Christmas in action. As always, participate in our community by getting outdoors for some skating or other winter activities and be sure to come out on December 7th for the Etobicoke Santa Parade. Along the route, come by - say hello and get some hot chocolate to keep you warm. MERRY CHRISTMAS! Submitted by Brad Jones. Brad Jones is a licensed funeral director and manager at Ridley Funeral Home 3080 Lake Shore Blvd. West Toronto, Ontario M8V 1K3. To learn more about preplanning or any questions regarding the funeral industry please feel free to contact Brad directly by phone 416.259.3705 or BradJones@RidleyFuneralHome.com Ridley “Exceeding expectations for over 90 Years”.
17
Canada EU Trade Agreement – Opening Canada to New Markets By Bernard Trottier, MP Etobicoke - Lakeshore
Today, with one in five Canadian jobs dependent on exports, our prosperity hinges on opening new markets for Canadian goods, services and investment.
This historic win for Canadians highlights Canada’s continued leadership on the world’s stage. With the international community marred by ongoing political and economic uncertainty, Canada’s continued political and economic stability is the envy of the world’s largest economies.
This is why our Conservative Government launched the most ambitious trade agenda in Canadian history. We are working to open new markets to create jobs and opportunities for all Canadians. Prime Minister Stephen Harper recently announced that Canada has reached an agreement in principle on a trade agreement with the European Union.
The signing of this agreement is an important step for Canada’s continued prosperity. Our Conservative Government will continue to focus on creating jobs and opportunities for all Canadians.
This is the biggest deal Canada has ever made. Whether you are a fisherman in Atlantic Canada, a forestry worker in Québec, an auto-worker in Ontario, a Prairie farmer, or an engineer from the West – you will benefit from the CanadaEurope Trade Agreement. It will open new markets to Canadian exporters throughout Europe and generate significant benefits, jobs and opportunities for all Canadians. The benefits of this agreement are equivalent to creating almost 80,000 new jobs or increasing the average Canadian household’s annual income by $1,000. Families in Etobicoke - Lakeshore will have greater access to European goods at a lower cost, as 98% of all tariffs, both ways, will be removed. This will significantly boost trade, investment and job opportunities for all Canadians. Our local businesses, and those across Canada, will have access to half a billion affluent customers – the world’s single largest market. With this agreement, the number of countries with which Canada has a free trade agreement will triple from 14 to 42. It is expected to inject $12 billion per year in Canada’s economy. What’s more, our Government is also keeping the three pillars of Canada’s supply management system intact. This will help ensure Canadian industries are protected, while still gaining access to the world’s largest market.
D R A L L MIKE BU DONE A P S K N A R F DEN EN
T T I H C M A H A N I GR B U L N O S N GIL O S D R U G ERICA SI LS E A H C I M DARCY BBS CHRIS GI
Frank Spadone
Darcy Michaels Mike Bullard
POR T CR ED I T
L A V I T S E F Y D E M O C
Chris Gibbs
2014 7 - MARCH 1, 2 Y R A U R B E F OT RECOMMENDED FULL BLADDERS N
ONLINE TICKETS VISIT FOR FESTIVAL DETAILS & m
omedy.co www.portcreditc
Box Office: Ric’s Recollections, 257 Lakeshore Road E / Impressionable Gifts & Décor, 74 Lakeshore Rd. E
18
Local Homecare Services Provider Awarded Exemplary Status Accreditation Canada has extended their sincerest congratulations to Premier Homecare Services for their participation in the Qmentum accreditation program. Premier Homecare Services was thanked for its “leadership and for demonstrating your ongoing commitment to quality by integrating accreditation into your improvement program.” Premier Homecare Services received ‘Accreditation with Exemplary Standing’ following a rigorous on site survey. Premier Homecare Services went through an evaluation process which started with a comprehensive self-assessment and concluded with an on-site survey conducted by Accreditation surveyors. Accreditation Canada is an independent, not-for-profit organization that sets standards for quality and safety in health/home care and accredits health organizations in Canada and around the world. “We are very pleased to have received this extraordinary distinction” says Gael Hepworth, co-owner of Premier Homecare Services Etobicoke with her husband, Gary. “This outstanding achievement demonstrates the commitment that our caregivers have for our client’s overall well-being and safety.” says Gary Hepworth, co-owner of Premier Homecare Services Etobicoke. Accreditation Canada surveyors commented that caregivers are “happy with Premier Homecare Services and are proud to work for the organization.” This shone through when the same surveyors interviewed Premier Homecare Services clients. Premier Homecare Services Etobicoke has been in business since 2010. Gary and Gael Hepworth knew they wanted to run their business in Etobicoke to give back to the community where they’ve lived for 15+ years. Gael also has firsthand experience as the primary caregiver for both her parents.
Gael explains that “accreditation instills added trust in her company and staff, and assures clients that we are being monitored and held to very high standards”. It’s quite an accomplishment and one that the Hepworth’s don’t hesitate to boast about. Clients consistently expressed to surveyors that they are very satisfied with the care they are receiving and the providers that come into their home. Clients felt extremely supported toward independence no matter where home is. All services are completely customized to the client, who is matched with a caregiver or personal support worker based on personality, language, cultural background and their needs. Caregivers and support workers are bonded and fully insured. If you would like to learn more about Premier Homecare Services, please contact Gary or Gael directly at 416-623-8229 or visit their website www.premieretobicoke. com.
VILLAGES