HUMBER HAPPENINGS A Community Publication by the Humber Bay Shores Condominium Association
Autumn 2015
Falling into
PLACE
Change is on the horizon in HBS. COVE STOR R Y!
MAKING A SPLASH
The Waterfront Festival draws a crowd.
ROCCO REBORN
New owners shake up the local hotspot.
CONNECTING THE CITY
John Tory shares his vision for T.O.
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IN THIS ISSUE
HUMBER HAPPENINGS A Community Publication by the Humber Bay Shores Condominium Association
A Community Publication by the Humber Bay Shores Condominium Association
FEATURES 10 LAKESHORE LOVE
The 4th Annual Waterfront Festival brings the neighbourhood together.
14 A CHANGE OF TASTE
Rocco Restaurant & Bar’s new owners make their mark in the community.
20 UNIFYING TORONTO
Mayor Tory touches on city goals, and how HBS fits into the bigger picture.
OUR COMMUNITY 6
8
20
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Bracing for change, projected growth and ongoing area improvements.
NEWS & EVENTS
The HBSCA Farmers’ Market keeps it local, joins in on waterfront festivities.
22 SOUNDING BOARD
Taking action against the area’s growing issue with graffiti and vandalism.
COLUMNS
10
4
WELCOME By Melissa Hayes
22 MONEY MINDED By Darren Clark
24 HEALTH & WELLNESS By Dr. Maureen Henderson & Dr. Shawn Henderson
12
Citrus Medical Centre aims to offer a one-stop option for healthcare.
27 ASK DR. GHAZI By Dr. Farzad Ghazi
28 WHEELS ON THE WATERFRONT By Jay Perry
HUMBER HAPPENINGS A Community Publication by the Humber Bay Shores Condominium Association
Autumn 2015
Falling
into PLACE
Change is on the horizon in HBS. COVER STORY!
MAKING A SPLASH
The Waterfront Festival draws a crowd.
ROCCO REBORN
New owners shake up the local hotspot.
CONNECTING THE CITY
John Tory shares his vision for T.O.
ON THE COVER: Signs of the season, spotted from the Humber Bay Butterfly Habitat (HBBH). Photo courtesy of HBS resident and HBBH leader, Peg Thoen.
Other cover photos, from left: The 4th Annual Waterfront Festival sets the stage for community fun; Rocco Restaurant & Bar serves up change; Mayor John Tory lends a hand during this year’s Pride festival flag raising ceremony.
30 VITALITY TO THE CORE By Guy Dufour
33 LAKESHORE VIEW By MPP Peter Milczyn
34 COUNCILLOR’S CORNER By Councillor Mark Grimes Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 3
HUMBER HAPPENINGS
WELCOME
Connecting the Dots HBS is one small part of a big city, but shares all of its core attributes. BY MELISSA HAYES
Autumn Issue 2015 Humber Bay Shores Condominium Association BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Have feedback, or feature ideas to share? Reach out to: melissa@mediamatters.ca 416-536-9285
W
hether you call it T.O., TDot, the Queen City, The Big Smoke, Hollywood North, or just plain old Toronto, if you live here, you help to make up the largest city in the country. Unsurprisingly, this great, sprawling metropolis also happens to be among the most diverse. Millions of people living in numerous pockets spread out far and wide act as the connecting thread, securing each component and completing an expansive quilt of differing regions and communities with distinct histories and identities. To John Tory, our mayor and the focus of this issue’s cover story, Toronto is a city of neighbourhoods, all sharing connections and ties, whether it be through infrastructure, culture, passion, lifestyle, or just a general at-
titude of acceptance and togetherness—something, he says, the rest of the world can learn from. Humber Bay Shores is one piece of the city’s eclectic and extensive framework, and offers its own small-scale example of this concept of unity and inclusiveness as it continues to grow and develop. If you look at HBS community events, like the recent 4th Annual Waterfront Festival, while the main draw seems to be in the festivities—the music, food and family fun—at the heart of it, it’s the simple interaction with fellow residents that really makes the experience. In fact, community participation is what keeps it going. By encouraging people to come out of their condos and mix and mingle with their neighbours, these events promote the very essence of what makes us Torontonians. Be sure to embrace it. HH
[HBS] offers its own smallscale example of this concept of unity and inclusiveness.
GET SOCIAL WITH US! @HBSHappenings humberhappenings 4 HumberBayShores.org
Melissa Hayes is the editor of Humber Happenings and can be reached by email at melissa@mediamatters.ca or by phone at 416-536-9285.
President Don Henderson, Bal Harbour Vice President Jim Reekie, Palace Place Treasurer Tom Arkay, Palace Pier Secretary Laura Nash, Marina del Rey Phase III Past President Jim Reekie, Palace Place Director Kathryn Winter, Grand Harbour Building B Director Jim Faichnie, Waterford Director Jonathan Isaacs, Marina del Rey Phase I Director Horst Richter, Marina del Rey Phase II Director Jay Perry, Nevis Director Tim Owen, Grand Harbour C Director Bob Dameron, Grand Harbour C (Townhouses) Director TBD, Hearthstone by the Bay Director Wayne Lakey, Grenadier Landing Director Lida Preyma, Newport Beach Director Mario DeSantis, South Beach - Green Tower Director Irene Nordlander, South Beach - Blue Tower Director Neera Shukla, Beyond The Sea - Star Tower Director Joyce Luesink, Beyond The Sea Director Sherali Najak, Waterscapes Director Mike Kavanagh, Palace Place STRATEGIC PLANNING INITIATIVE COORDINATORS Planning & Infrastructure Jim Reekie Building Community Josephine Petrolo Communications & Outreach Jay Perry hbscaboard@rogers.com • (416) 792-4964 www.HumberBayShores.org HUMBER HAPPENINGS PRODUCED BY Editor Melissa Hayes Art Director Candace Taylor Writers Darren Clark, Guy Dufour, Dr. Farzad Ghazi, Mark Grimes, Don Henderson, Dr. Maureen Henderson, Dr. Shawn Henderson, Peter Milczyn, Jay Perry. Advertising Jay Perry: 416-587-1748 / jayperry@a-b-c-inc.com MEDIA MATTERS INC. President Darryl Simmons Editorial Director Mike Davey VP Industry Relations & Advertising Gloria Mann Director of Sales & Marketing Ellen Smith Marketing Assistant Will Jacques
Media Matters Inc. 645 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6G 3T6 t. (905)370-0101 f. (866)868-7072 e. humberhappenings@mediamatters.ca Humber Happenings is published four times a year. VOLUME 8 ISSUE 3
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Aiming High The Humber Bay Shores community is primed for rapid growth, and as residents, the responsibility falls on us to properly plan and prepare for it. BY DON HENDERSON
H
BSCA’s 4th Annual Waterfront Festival was a grand success, thanks to our volunteers, vendors and resident attendees. It took over eight months of planning and several committee meetings under the direction of our event leaders Jim Reek-
ie and Karen Garney. We are grateful for their time and commitment. Special thanks is extended to our sponsors BMO and Metro grocery, and developers Mattamy-Monarch, Times Group, Empire Communities, and Conservatory Group. We also had nearly 50 vendors and 25 Farmers’ Market tents offering informa-
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tion and services, along with a very popular children’s area and several great bands to set the mood. Lastly, and most importantly, we had you—several thousand atteendees! Thanks again to all. Within this huge city, our community is rapidly developing into a very populated village bordering on just
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PRESIDENTS MESSAGE
2.5 km of Lake Shore/Park Lawn roadway. Development of the Christie site aside, once all construction is complete by 2018-19, there will be in excess of 14,000 residential units. We have a number of active committees working with the city and developers on best-planning infrastructure concerns for our future needs. While onerous, there are a number of other seemingly easy issues that frustrate remedy planning and for which we need community input and support; such as high-speed transit cyclists using shared pathways avoiding roadway traffic lights, garbage/cigarette butts and doggie dung strewn about our parkland, graffiti tagging, vehicles parked in “no parking/ no stopping” zones, etc. Our association receives periodic complaints urging more bylaw enforcement. This would be an easy task if patrols were full-time and on-site. One remedy might involve strategies around
collective education, prevention and adherence to courtesy by way of com-
Our community is rapidly developing into a very populated village. mon sense rules. The old adage comes to mind, “Tell ‘em, tell ‘em agin and tell them what you told them!” Unfortunately, society rules become officially
entrenched and applied to the respectful 90 percent of the populace, due to 10 percent feeling entitled to ignore/ abuse a rule that shouldn’t be needed in the first place! Perhaps there should be a team of project-driven volunteers to find effective solutions for complaints and problems. Our association would be happy to facilitate such an initiative. To conclude on a happy note—any golf aficionados out there? By the time this issue reaches you, residents will have spent a fun-filled day at Eagle Ridge Golf Club for our annual tournament fundraiser. Next year we will strive to have one or two foursome teams from every member condo corporation. Thanks to all for making HBS a great place to live, work, visit, shop and play! HH Don is HBSCA President, having formerly served as the board’s Vice President. He has been actively involved in the community for almost two decades.
THE HUMBER BAY SHORES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION
WANTS YOUR FEEDBACK!
HBSCA SURVEY
Visit the new HumberBayShores.org site and follow the link to take a short survey on your community. Y O U R I N P U T I S G R E AT L Y A P P R E C I AT E D !
HUMBER BAY SHORES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION
Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 7
NEWS & EVENTS
HBSCA Farmers’ Market returns to the Waterfront Festival for second year
Over 40 HBSCA Farmers’ Market vendors took part in the 4th Annual Waterfront Festival, marking the second year the events have merged.
8 HumberBayShores.org
From May through mid-October, community members have their pick of fresh, locally-sourced fruit, flowers, vegetables and baked goods— and, for the second consecutive year, residents could also get their fill of Farmers’ Market fare during the area’s annual Waterfront Festival. While the local market usually touches down on Humber Bay Park West each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 40 participating Ontario farmers and vendors made the trek to set up shop along Marine Parade and Waterfront Drive for the August 8 festival. Despite the rain, Humber Bay Shores residents were out in full force, surveying a healthy variety of offerings, including cheery sunflowers, juicy melons, ripe peaches, picked corn, homemade jam, raw honey, organic greens, gourmet cheeses, loose leaf tea, roasted coffee and fresh-baked bread, muffins and cookies. HBSCA President Don Henderson says that last year’s decision to merge the two events was an easy one, as each serves to bolster the other. “It’s wonderful to have the market at the Waterfront Festival, it really helps to boost the range of offerings of all the events here,” says Henderson. This year most of the market’s vendors remained for the duration of the festival, offering event-goers a variety of eats and treats from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. The HBSCA Farmers’ Market runs until October 10.
NEWS & EVENTS
MAY - OCT 10 SEPT. 25 - 27
Help celebrate local artisians, businesses and organizations during Etobicoke-Lakeshore Culture Days. Hosted by Lakeshore Arts and Humber College, the weekend event boasts over 50 free interactive activities held annually along Lake Shore Boulevard, from Park Lawn to Brown’s Line. This year’s instalment runs September 25 to 27.
OCT. 3
Get in the spirit of the season at MPP Peter Milczyn’s Fall Community Corn Roast and Children’s Pumpkin Decorating event, taking place on October 3 in Ourland Park, near Ourland Community Centre. Join in the festivities between 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
OCT. 25
The community Farmers’ Market runs from May to mid-October, offering residents a variety of options every Saturday in Humber Bay Park West.
The annual HBSCA Farmers’ Market features over 20 vendors, offering community foodies a wide range of Ontario-sourced fare. Get your fill by dropping by Humber Bay Park West every Saturday between 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. throughout the growing season.
Unleash your spooky side with your four-legged friend for Paws on the Shore’s annual Zombie Dog Walk. The eerie event is set to start at 12 p.m. on October 25 in Colonel Samuel Smith Park. Dress to impress for a chance to win a variety of costume contests.
NOV. 1
Events, Fun & More!
Send Halloween off in style by toting your Jack-O-Lantern to the annual Mimico Pumpkin Parade, lighting up Mimico Square and Amos Waites Park on November 1 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring your own candles and lighters. Pumpkins will be composted November 2.
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Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 9
COMMUNITY EVENT
Water
Wonderland BY MELISSA HAYES
Rain couldn’t wash out the 4th Annual HBSCA Waterfront Festival.
W
hile eight months ea complete with bouncy castles, face of planning and painting, and a variety of vendors offernumerous com- ing gifts, goodies and an array of eats— mittee meetings including fresh, hand-picked selections go into the HB- care of the community Farmers’ Market. SCA Waterfront “We do have far more vendors this Festival each year, there’s one little detail, year,” says Henderson. “We’ve got about 50 try as you might, you can’t always accu- vendors, and around 40 of the Farmers’ Marrately predict or prepare for: the weather. ket representatives, so it’s bigger and better.” But it turns out that an overcast sky, grey Among the wide range of event particgloomy clouds and bouts of light rain are no ipants and sponsors were familiar neighmatch for communibourhood faces and ty spirit. Despite a less businesses, such as Lothan ideal forecast, the la’s Gelato, Rocco Res4th annual event saw taurant & Bar, BMO, Humber Bay Shores The Gatehouse, Hum(HBS) residents turn ber Bay Travel, RABout in droves on SatBA, Chateau Pooch, urday, August 8 to Monarch and Metro, take in the festival’s as well as representasights, sounds and fare. tion from Councillor In fact, many showed Mark Grimes and MPP up well ahead of the Peter Milczyn. event’s advertised 10 Henderson says this a.m. start time. focus on communi“We actually had ty involvement and people here at about drawing people to– Don Henderson 7:30 in the morning, gether remains at the waiting for the tents to heart of the event, set up,” says HBSCA President Don Hen- and is something the HBSCA hopes to derson. “We’ve had a really good turnout. continue to achieve, come rain or shine. Last year we had around 5,000 people, this “Our focus has always been to engage year we anticipated about 7,000, and I the community, and you can’t help but don’t think we’re going to be far off.” engage the community with an event Running until 7 p.m. along Marine Pa- like this,” he says. “I think that’s the rade and Waterfront Drive, the 2015 in- main goal, to have everyone come tostalment of the street festival boasted live gether and have fun, and that’s exactly music, buskers, a children’s amusement ar- what’s happening here every year.” HH
Forever a family affair, the festival saw a number of furry, four-legged companions.
“Our focus has always been to engage the community, and you can’t help but engage the community with an event like this.”
10 HumberBayShores.org
Foodies got their fill from over 40 community Farmers’ Market vendors.
COMMUNITY EVENT
Melanie Pike and niece, Mary Grogan, Tony Vella and Brad Hutchinson at The Gatehouse tent.
Live music included the Latin guitar stylings of Dj & Reno. HBSCA President Don Henderson.
Street buskers, like Tom Tom the Juggler, provided passersby with entertainment.
Returning to Marine Parade and Waterfront Drive, this year’s event touched down on August 8.
Southbound Soul Band delivered big sound to the main stage.
Bouncy castles provided kid-friendly fun.
Face painting proved to be one of the most popular event attractions.
Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 11
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HUMBER FOCUS Sports chir opractor D r. Ian Sha physician w, family s Dr. Fola Sam-Ogun Hinal She biyi and D th, with st r. a ff and Marg receptionis aret, clinic t Tiffany medical a ssistant.
A
FR ESH
Ta ke
Citrus Medical Centre puts the focus on cohesive community care.
H
ealth plays an integral role in everyday life, directly impacting our mood, abilities and overall sense of well-being. Regardless of athletic level, age or gender, we depend on doctors and specialists to monitor and prescribe the best routes to take towards leading a long, active and fulfilling existence. And while those methods are tried and true, much like a well-wrapped bandage over an injury, it’s all in how it’s dressed. 12 HumberBayShores.org
It’s this focus on not only providing quality care, but also taking an equally measured approach in how it’s delivered that the staff at Citrus Medical Centre pride themselves on. One of the newest additions to the community, the 2240 Lake Shore Blvd. W. clinic set up shop on July 20 with one mission: to offer residents a one-stop destination for a wide variety of medical services, while specializing in improved and preventative care. The location joins the business’ 398 Royal York Rd. address, which opened its doors in September 2014.
“In building our clinics, we wanted to modernize the process of medicine and create a refreshing approach to healthcare. Like other industries, healthcare needs to push forward and evolve to meet patients’ needs,” says Dr. Hinal Sheth, a core member and driving force behind the Citrus healthcare team. “Our goal is to provide the best care possible and to create a comfortable experience.” With the Humber Bay Shores population booming, Sheth says it was HBSCA Vice President Jim Reekie who first alerted her to the unique needs of the area. Research indicated a number of residents had been on a waiting list and hadn’t seen a doctor in years, with many defined as high-need patients, necessitating ongoing attention. “Every year there are new families moving in and they all require a family doctor. It is a great feeling to be able to provide people what they need and support building a healthy and vibrant community,” she says, adding that she particularly enjoys working with new mothers and children. Sheth notes that both locations strive to offer almost any service pa-
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Citrus Medical Centre moved into the neighbourhood on July 20, 2015.
tients could possibly need, and while the services themselves can be found at other clinics, the business’ attention to detail is what truly sets them apart. “Our cohesive team ensures that patients can do everything in-house. We consistently look at ways to decrease wait times,” she says. “We put a lot of effort into providing patients with their needs and hopefully their wants, so coming to see us feels more like a meeting rather than a doctor’s appointment. We want all patients to feel welcome, relaxed, and comfortable.” Beyond offering family practice and walk-in clinic services, including two in-house doctors now accepting patients at each site, Citrus Medical Centre boasts massage therapy, physiotherapy, chiropractic work and a full range of orthotic care. There are also plans in place to introduce pediatrics, dermatology, gynecology, psychology and naturopathy. In addition, the clinic actively engages their clients in pre-hab and preventa-
tive athletic therapy to chart how to best avoid mild, severe or debilitating injuries. “In a lot of ways we want to become less reactive and more proactive,” she says. “If you plan on golfing this year, running, or
“We put a lot of effort into providing patients with their needs and hopefully their wants, so coming to see us feels more like a meeting rather than a doctor’s appointment.” – Dr. Hinal Sheth starting a new sport you can see someone at the clinic to talk about how you can prevent an injury through stretching or other modalities.” She says this high level of care starts with the team itself, whose cooperative
FA M I LY D O C T O R S
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS and collaborative atmosphere has a ripple effect that is identifiable in the clinic’s operations, stressing that ultimately, a great staff is essential to making a positive, healthy environment for both employees and community members. “The staff work in synergy, egos are left at the door and patients are put first,” Sheth says. “It’s about having the best team in place—likeminded providers who are able to work together. It’s not just about being qualified, it’s about culture.” Sheth believes healthcare is fundamental to a healthy, lively and balanced life, and that such a vital service should be as effortless and hassle-free as possible. “I got into healthcare because I wanted to help people in need. Having good health is essential in functioning and being happy,” she says. “The easier you make something for someone, the happier they will be — bottom line. “That goes for healthcare and everything else in life.” HH Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 13
TASTE OF HUMBER
Right Ingredients the
epreneurs hood entr y Neighbour dd Presse To d n iams a Bar & t n a Marc Will ur a Rocco Rest r. took over yea earlier this
Rocco Restaurant & Bar’s new owners offer up a fresh look and feel. BY MELISSA HAYES
The 2083 Lake Shore Blvd. W. location has been in the area since 2009.
“We envisioned a place where people can come in and feel comfortable with friends and family, for any occasion.” – Todd Pressey
14 HumberBayShores.org
T
he name and address may be the same, but Rocco Restaurant & Bar has undergone something of a transformation since changing hands earlier this year. Local entrepreneurs Marc Williams and Todd Pressey officially took over the 2083 Lake Shore Blvd. W. location on January 14, and have been breathing new life into the neighbourhood fixture—nestled under the Waterford building for more than half a decade—ever since. Both veterans of the food industry and longtime Humber Bay Shores (HBS) residents, Williams and Pressey saw the establishment, situated in an idyllic setting primed for growth, as a golden opportunity. “We wanted to find a restaurant that was in a community that we could be a part of, so this really fit the bill,” says Pressey. “It also helps that it’s an absolutely wonderful area. I think HBS is a little gem and it’s only going to get better.”
After spending six years heading the National Yacht Club’s food and beverage operation together, the two were ready to take what they found to be a dynamic working relationship and branch off on their own. Former colleagues Eric Griffths and Richard Issacs also came along for the ride, now acting as the respective Rocco Restaurant & Bar head chef and sous chef. Along with promise, the venture came with its fair share of work. Williams says that taking an existing business and making it their own called for a little elbow grease, including taking on the task of revamping most of the interior, including the tables, chairs, lighting, televisions, bar and private party area. “We also want to offer a kind of an oasis, away from the concrete,” says Williams of their plans to further improve the patio, with the addition of trees for enhanced privacy and outdoor heaters for cooler nights and crisp autumn air.
TASTE OF HUMBER But the changes aren’t only skin-deep. Fine-tuning the more buttoned up dining environment offered by the previous owners, and dialing it back to a more casual and accommodating experience—without sacrificing any of the
BEFORE
AFTER ABOVE: The duo’s efforts to make the establishment their own is reflected in a number of modifications and improvements to the bar area.
quality—was a top priority, says Pressey. “When we first took over, it was all white tablecloths and it was very dark in here and low music was playing,” he says. “We changed that right away. We didn’t want the fine dining atmosphere anymore. We envisioned a place where people can come in and feel comfortable with friends and family, for any occasion.” This all-embracing attitude is core to the business and extends right down to the menu, featuring a variety of items at different price points, crafted in-house with quality ingredients, including homemade pasta, sauces, fresh fish and locally-sourced produce. But customers aren’t limited to Italian cuisine, rotating specials, the time of day, or even the menu itself. “We want to be able to cater to everyone,” says Williams. “If you come in at 10 in the morning and you want a burger, we’re going to make it for you. Or, if you come in and want eggs and bacon at 10 p.m., we’ll serve it to you. We’re not going to say no. And if there’s something that’s not even on our menu and you want us to cook it for you, if we have the ingredients, we’ll do it.” The menu has evolved under the care of management and staff, but has also welcomed the most valued opinion of all: the customer’s. “We kept some of the original menu, just to see what people wanted, and then made changes along the way,” says Pressey, noting the end result is simpler, much more streamlined, and always open to suggestion. It’s this out-of-the-box approach the two believe sets their establishment apart and will be critical to their ongoing success in a developing, thriving community. “We’re the new guy, so we need to work a little harder, put a little more love in our food, build relationships with people, shake hands, kiss babies,” says Williams. Community engagement and constant improvement are at the forefront for the co-owners, with future plans to increase their involvement in neighbourhood events, expand their delivery service and introduce food-themed nights.
Williams and Pressey hope to offer customers a more relaxed and welcoming dining experience.
The co-owners have updated much of the restaurant’s interior in the aim to add their own distinctive touch.
Otherwise, Williams says, they just want people to know that they’re in the area and that their doors are wide open. “We’d love people to come by and say hello,” he says. “We want to have everybody feel welcome in our restaurant, and see it as a place to come for wholesome, delicious food for great value. It’s that simple.” HH Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 15
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Čˆ
edentrattoria.com
COVER STORY
John Tory is Toronto’s 65th mayor.
Forward Motion
Mayor John Tory talks transit, employment and livability. BY MELISSA HAYES
C
oming up on the one-year mark of his term heading the country’s largest municipal government, Mayor John Tory is as focused as ever to improve Toronto, or what he refers to as a city of neighbourhoods—an expansive collection of communities as vibrant as they are diverse. To Tory, world-class looks, climate and economy aren’t at the top of the list when it comes to determining what makes a city a great one. He says the most remarkable feature of the province’s capital comes down to those who call it home, and how they share that home with one another.
“No matter who they are, the colour of their skin, their religion, nationality, language they speak or sexual orientation, people are embraced here,” he says. “And while we haven’t achieved perfection, we’ve achieved a kind of way of living together that I think is being watched very carefully by other people around the world and that is sufficiently real and good that people continue to come here from around the globe.” It’s this high level of livability and dynamic culture that Tory aims to preserve, along with ensuring that a strong connection remains between the city’s various regions and people.
Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 17
COVER STORY RIGHT: Mayor Tory and Prime Minister Stephen Harper. One of Tory’s primary goals is to improve the city’s traffic and transportation. His SmartTrack proposal has received support from the federal government.
Humber Bay Shores (HBS) is one such piece of the intricate mosaic that makes up the Queen City, and according to Tory, is as worthy of attention and improvement as any other developing pocket of Toronto’s staggering estimated 2.8 million population. “A place like Humber Bay Shores is an extraordinary place to live in the city if you look at it in the context of the city as a whole,” he says. “It is a great historic part of the city, being close to Mimico and New Toronto, and all those established neighbourhoods that have been around for a long time.” He says the real challenge is in making sure that evolving neighbourhoods and communities like HBS are what he deems complete, in that they not only include residences, but also nearby employment opportunities, amenities and transportation. “Our traffic and public transit are not what they should be in terms of having a really livable city,” he says, adding that the Ward 6 area is not exempt from the issue. “I think we have to take a look at further maximizing the use of the GO transit stops that are in the area, and integrating that better with the TTC. And then I think after that, what you’re talking about for Humber Bay Shores is more some alterations to the transit system, as opposed to some brand new project that you’re going to announce.” To this end, Tory has lent his support to proposals put forth by Coun. Mark Grimes, namely the relocation of the Humber Loop to Park Lawn Road and Lake Shore Boulevard West, and moving to further expand the existing dedicated streetcar between St. Joseph’s Hospital and Exhibition Place. “I think probably those are things that should be very high priorities of ours and certainly [Grimes] has been after me, and I know he’s been after 18 HumberBayShores.org
“If you look at south Etobicoke, it’s got all the right stuff, it’s got a terrific educational institution in Humber College, it’s got proximity to downtown, it’s got great proximity to recreation, it’s got great parks, it’s got great residential capacity.”
the TTC to get those kinds of modifications to the current system on the books to get done, because these things have to be scheduled and budgeted,” he says. “They’re not going to happen because we wish them to happen, they’re going to happen because we get them on a list. So I think those
The mayor hosts a family of visitors in his office at City Hall.
are some of the things that I would certainly see as being significant priorities to better serve this area.” While Tory says transportation is key to connecting people to the rest of the city and to a wider range of employment opportunities, the trick is to also encourage interest within the community itself. “The bottom line is you’re not going to have jobs for young people or older people if you don’t have companies and businesses that are willing to locate or expand in the Humber Bay Shores, southern Etobicoke area,” he says. “So I think there are some basic building blocks that you can make sure are in place, including in particular public transportation so people can get there, but then I think one success will beget another.” Tory says a template for working locally can be found downtown where Torontonians walk to work, or take transit to travel short and long distances. He says transit-building and introducing more jobs are essential, again stressing that one of the core
COVER STORY RIGHT: Tory helps mark Toronto’s first Food Truck Freedom Day on May 13, 2015. FAR RIGHT: John Tory a year ago, ahead of the 2014 Toronto Mayoral Election.
purposes of transit is to connect people to opportunity—which is something he sees in the area, and specifically in the Christie site. “If you look at south Etobicoke, it’s got all the right stuff, it’s got a terrific educational institution in Humber College, it’s got proximity to downtown, it’s got great proximity to recreation, it’s got great parks, it’s got great residential capacity,” he says. “I think there’s a lot we can do to attract investment to a very attractive area of the city. We’re just going to have to make sure we marshal all our forces and have a bit of a plan, and I think the plan could revolve around something like the Christie site.” The task of bringing in business, whether start-up or established, to a community rich with all the necessary ingredients really comes down to getting the word out, he says. “It’s not as if we are having to convince people, that it’s some sort of bad area of town, it’s a great area,” Tory says. “This is a good place for people to invest, and so we just have to make sure we tell the story.” Building on and maintaining accessibility, connectivity and growth have been primary focuses of the city’s 65th leader, even before he assumed office on December 1, 2014. Looking forward to the next milestone, two years into his term, he hopes to have covered more ground in advancing Toronto’s thriving culture of livability. “We need to make sure there aren’t people on the outside looking in,” he says. “That whoever they are, they feel that they have more equitable access to opportunity than they did a year ago. And so I’m going to be very anxious to continue to move that forward just because I think that’s so important to the social fabric and the economic fabric of the city.” HH
ABOVE: Mayor Tory tests out the city’s new “raccoon-proof” green bin in April 2015. RIGHT: After almost a year of heading the country’s largest city, Tory says he hopes to continue moving towards an improved Toronto. BELOW: Joined by city councillors and members of the LGBT community, Mayor John Tory helped kick off the city’s Pride festival during the flag raising ceremony at City Hall on June 22, 2015.
Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 19
Respecting our community by working to keep it clean and graffiti-free When no one is around, they slith-
Graffiti is a style of writing and drawing
face, graffiti might necessitate special
er in the night, markers and paint
on public or private surfaces. The clean-
equipment for its removal. The use
cans in hand. They select any clean
up involved costs taxpayers millions.
of poisonous or corrosive chemicals
wall as their backdrop, thinking it
More and more cities require full-time
harms the environment and the use of
“cool” to tag their personal moni-
municipal employees to remove graffiti
abrasives can pit and scar surfaces.
ker on mailboxes, the exteriors of
by painting over it or blasting it off with
Oftentimes when the graffiti is
buildings and houses, bus shelters,
a power sprayer. But many say as soon as
painted over or cleaned, there is a
park signs, tunnels, and bridges.
the graffiti is removed, it often reappears.
residual reminder left behind. Maybe
The perpetrators are often quite
The expense of removing graffiti var-
the fresh paint doesn’t quite match
young and never seem to make
ies depending on where it is applied and
the original, or the treated spot dries
their mark whilst people are about
how large a space it covers. It cannot
darker than the surrounding area.
lest they pay a hefty price.
always be fixed up with a coat of paint.
There is no doubt that graffiti is a de-
Depending on the affected sur-
structive form of vandalism. If the perpe-
Their “art” left behind, the graffiti tagger is content on being irresponsi-
trator is not caught, then it is the taxpayer,
ble and unaccountable. However, their
business owner, home owner or individu-
disrespectful trademark is a growing
al victim who must pay the price.
and expensive problem for local neigh-
The growing costs encountered by
borhoods. To make matters worse, and
the taxpayer and the impact on the
depending on one’s perspective, the
city’s economy means vital cash is not
act is viewed as a misdemeanor, but
going towards the improvement of
victims who must pay for the clean-up
public services. It also deters businesses
say it is just as much a crime as theft.
from investing in communities. It leads
20 HumberBayShores.org
HUMBER BAY SHORES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION
to visual degradation of the built envi-
Current anti-graffiti crackdown strate-
ronment and lowers the perception of
gies are generally limited to banning spray
On August 25, HBSCA initiated a graf-
personal safety, community well-being,
paint sales to minors, setting up graffiti
fiti meeting with police, government
property values and civic pride.
hotlines, installing video surveillance, de-
representatives—including our MP, MPP
veloping “zero tolerance” bylaws and
and councillor—local Business Improve-
As part of a prevention strategy, some
discourage this form of vandalism!
ment Associations as well as resident as-
There is no doubt that graffiti is a destructive form of vandalism [and it is often] the taxpayer, business owner, home owner or individual victim who must pay the price.
sociations in south Etobicoke. Prompted by escalation of this form of vandalism in the community, the purpose of the meeting was to encourage and ramp up legal and community-based action and call for stiffer penalties. A second meeting has been arranged for October to discuss a position paper as well as to consider valid-
communities are developing various art
stiffer penalties for perpetrators and their
ity analysis and outcome measures on
and education-based programs for young
parents. Defacing property is a criminal
current prevention programs. Wider
people. Such programs are said to provide
offense (430-3 of the Criminal Code) and
city and provincial support will also be
an alternative platform for self-expres-
carries a maximum fine of $5,000 on con-
sought to deal with the problem.
sion, working closely with local schools to
viction or a six-month jail sentence.
Your HBSCA wishes to be proactive
better meet the social needs of students,
Successful convictions, however,
and deal directly with this issue. If you
and collaborating with local police to ad-
are few and far between. Under the
spot new graffiti tags in your area, call
dress issues for young offenders. These
Parental Responsibility Act, parents
it in to 311 to document its occurrence.
programs, however, do not deal with the
are financially responsible for dam-
tagger after the act. Further, few studies,
ages caused by their children who
if any, actually assess the effectiveness and
are under the age of 18. There is no
outcome measures of these programs.
doubt that it’s up to us all to actively
Look for more updates on the new HumberBayShores.org website and in upcoming issues of Humber Happenings.
Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 21
MONEY MINDED
Harnessing the power of dividends.
D
ividends are income distributions from a company to its shareholders. Today’s healthy dividend yields are eclipsing those of money market funds and the bond market. Their advantages are numerous and they carry great potential—but how powerful is the power of dividends? Income-focused investors often look to dividend-paying stocks—typically large-cap companies that are less volatile—as a source of stability and income and as a way to diversify their portfolios. Although companies are not obligated to pay dividends to investors, most continue to do so. Some investors see dividend payments as a signal of the company’s confidence in its future earning power, particularly in tenuous markets. They also help to mitigate stock market downturns, particularly in the wake of a financial crisis. Over the past 27 years, dividends have contributed an average of 2.7 percent per year to the S&P/TSX Composite Total Return Index, representing over 30 percent of the average annual total return, according to RBC Global Asset Management. Many stocks make automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRIPs) available, through which investors can reinvest their dividends for future growth (and more dividends) instead of spending them. These reinvested dividends can compound into significant returns over the long term. In the United States, dividends have represented a significant portion of total returns for the S&P 500 over the past 70 years, with a 22 HumberBayShores.org
© FreeImages.com/photographer/jpsdg-31645
Divide andCONQUER BY DARREN CLARK
long-term average contribution from reinvested dividends of over 40 percent of its total return, based on data from RBC Capital Markets Quantitative Research. Suppose you invest $100 initially,
Investors [see] dividendpaying stocks as a source of stability and income . . . and an additional $75 per quarter, at an anticipated stock price appreciation of 7 percent and an anticipated dividend yield of 2 percent. In 20 years, you would have invested a total of $6,025 and reinvested dividends of $2,324.88 for a total cost basis of $8,349.88. Your capital gain would be $8,166.42—and your total value would be $16,516.29! Dividends received from Canadian corporations are effectively taxed at a lower rate than interest income, due to the dividend tax credit that is applied to the federal and provincial tax payable. This tax credit is meant to recognize that the Canadian corporation paying the dividends has already paid tax on its earnings, which are now being distributed to its investors. Dividends from foreign corporations do not receive the same dividend tax credit,
and are taxed at a higher rate than those of Canadian corporations. For example, if you earn more than $132,000 in annual taxable income, and receive $1,000 in dividend income from a Canadian company, you keep approximately $735 after federal and provincial taxes—less than the dividend tax credit. By comparison, $1,000 in interest income will net about $555 after taxes—the same for $1,000 in foreign dividend income, because it is not subject to the tax credit for Canadian corporations, and is taxed at a higher rate. HH Financial planning services are available through RBC Dominion Securities Inc. RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. © 2015 Royal Bank of Canada. All rights reserved. Darren Clark is an investment advisor at RBC Dominion Securities, and holds over 24 years of financial experience. For more information, or to inquire about offered financial planning services, call 416-231-6920, or contact darren.clark@rbc.com. www.darrentclark.ca.
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Humber Happenings  I  Autumn 2015 23
HEALTH & WELLNESS
JOINT EFFORT
Dr. Shawn Henderson and daughter Kaitlyn with Dr. Don Henderson at the HBSCA Waterfront Festival.
Personalized healthcare can help take the guesswork out of maintaining an active, fulfilling lifestyle. BY DR. MAUREEN HENDERSON & DR. SHAWN HENDERSON
T
hank you to all the current patients and new faces who dropped by the Kingsway Health by-the-Lake booth at this year’s HBS Waterfront Festival! It was a great way to celebrate our family’s 40th year treating patients in Etobicoke. Our booth housed three generations of Hendersons—it was an amazing day!
A Family Affair Drs. Don and Maureen Henderson have been providing chiropractic care in south Etobicoke since 1975. Both continue to be very active in the community. In 2006, the clinic was relocated to 2405 Lake Shore Blvd. W. The longtime residents of the vibrant Humber Bay area made the move at the time they were
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expanding the office to not just include their children, Shawn and Shayne, but also to provide a full range of health services to meet all natural healthcare patient needs. Dr. Don Henderson recently retired, but is still keeping busy in his role as current HBSCA president. Dr. Maureen Henderson continues to practice as a chi-
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www.LaViniaRestaurant.com 24 HumberBayShores.org
HEALTH & WELLNESS ropractor, while also managing the Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program and acting as Director of the Mimico-by-the-Lake Business Improvement Association. The clinic has continued to maintain a strong family and community-minded atmosphere, and is operated by Dr. Shawn Henderson; a chiropractor and registered acupuncturist. Shayne Henderson is a registered massage therapist with a focus on pre- and post-natal support and optimizing function. The clinic provides patient-focused treatment designed to comprehensively address each individual’s healthcare needs. This care may be prompted by motor vehicle accidents, sports and work-related injuries as well as chronic nerve and joint pain. Our goal is to restore and maintain your healthy, active lifestyle in order to enjoy getting out into the best part of our city: Humber Bay Shores! Personalized Care If you’re new to our clinic and are
wondering if you need care, we always start by asking about your personal
Our goal is to remove any barriers to healthy living and restore the life you want to live. health goals. Have you stopped playing golf due to pain? Are you not able to walk because your knees ache? Are you stressed, rundown and exhausted? Have you been told you have arthritis or suffer from a long-term condition? We can help. We want people to move
towards a healthier lifestyle, and more importantly, a healthier life! We want you to you resume enjoyable activities without the limitations of pain. These are things that ought to be important to you and your family. Our friendly staff members are here to make your transition to healthy living an easy one. Working Together Our goal is to remove any barriers to healthy living and restore the life you want to live. Health is not just about trying to avoid being sick. There’s a difference! Let us help you get there. HH
Beginning in 1975, two generations have practiced chiropractic care in Etobicoke. The clinic has since grown to offer a full range of natural health services. To make an appointment with Dr. Maureen Henderson, or Dr. Shawn Henderson, please call 416-231-9502.
The humber Sailing & PowerboaTing CenTre offers certified and professional sailing and powerboating lessons on Toronto's beautiful Humber Bay, Lake Ontario To learn more ConTaCT uS aT: 416-252-7291 or sailing@humber.ca
humber.ca/sailing
Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 25
Meet... Lynn Tribbling Award-Winning Sales Representative: Right at Home Realty Inc., Brokerage Your Leading Neighbourhood Enthusiast*
ExcEptional Real estate... ExcEptional RealtoR 吀栀椀渀欀椀渀最 漀昀 匀攀氀氀椀渀最ⴀ一攀眀 䈀攀最椀渀渀椀渀最猀 “Humber Bay Shores is the jewel in the crown of Toronto waterfront real estate.” ~ Lynn Tribbling *Past owner: Palace Pier Penthouse, Palace Place Penthouse, Grand Harbour Penthouse, Waterford Model Suite Current owner: Newport Beach Penthouse
圀愀琀攀爀昀爀漀渀琀 䌀漀渀搀漀洀椀渀椀甀洀猀 夀漀甀爀 一攀椀最栀戀漀甀爀栀漀漀搀 刀攀愀氀琀漀爀猀 伀û攀爀椀渀最 夀漀甀 伀甀爀 㔀 匀琀愀爀 䴀愀爀欀攀琀椀渀最 倀爀漀最爀愀洀 䌀愀爀氀愀 䘀攀爀渀愀渀搀攀猀 匀愀氀攀猀 刀攀瀀爀攀猀攀渀琀愀琀椀瘀攀 㐀㘀ⴀ㤀㌀㤀ⴀ㌀㤀㔀
direct: 416.252.2221 office: 416.391.3232 email: ltribbling@sympatico.ca visit: www.ltribbling.com
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ASK DR. GHAZI
UnexpectedGuests Our pets can play host to a range of zoonotic diseases, but there are ways to protect yourself and your furry family member. BY DR. FARZAD GHAZI
© FreeImages.com/photographer/coloniera2-57604
P
ets influence our lives in many positive ways. They are known to provide people with companionship, security, and unconditional love. Unfortunately, it is also possible for pets to be a source of unwanted “extra friends.” Nearly all companion animals— whether furry, scaly or feathered—have the capacity to host zoonotic diseases. These are diseases which normally exist in animals, but are capable of infecting humans, given the right opportunity. There are at least 70 human diseases that can be sourced back to companion animals, however it is important to note that only a few are highly contagious. Most of these infections fall under one of four categories: viral (e.g. rabies), parasitic (e.g. worms, ticks, fleas), bacterial (e.g. salmonella, e-coli), or fungal (e.g. ringworm). Any one of these is passed on through direct contact with an animal, either through a bite, scratch, skin contact, contact with mucous, saliva, urine, feces, or
other bodily discharge. Although many zoonotic diseases are not typically transmitted successfully, pets bring these zoonotic organisms into closer proximity to people, thereby increasing the potential for a zoonotic disease.
Pets bring these zoonotic organisms into closer proximity to people. A lesser-known organism that we see very frequently, particularly in rescued dogs, is called giardia. Giardia is the most common human intestinal parasite found in North America. Symptoms include greasy, soft stools or diarrhea with a rancid odour. Giardia is transmitted by ingesting microscopic cysts that are carried by water, food, fur and feces. Water-bourne transmission is the most common because the cysts thrive in moist and cool environments. One report estimates a 50 percent prevalence in puppies, with a rate of up to 100 percent in kennels where pets tend to share close quarters and dishes. The rate of infection for cats is significantly lower at 11 percent, but can be difficult to diagnose because cats are usually asymptomatic. Because giardia can be host-specific or
zoonotic, it is difficult to pinpoint how significantly pets are implicated in the rate of human infestation. Children under five years old and adults over 65 are more vulnerable to infection, as are pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems. They may have an increased risk of contracting zoonotic diseases, experience symptoms more severely or for a longer duration. Preventive care begins with adoption. Young pets which appear underweight, lethargic, or are experiencing diarrhea or vomiting should be considered a potentially risky choice. Routine professional health care such as fecal testing, vaccinations, deworming, and preventive medicine will help guard your furry family members from zoonotic diseases through all life stages. Regularly cleaning litter boxes, bird cages, aquariums, terrariums, and pet bedding will help reduce your exposure to pathogens, and minimize the risk of perpetual re-infection of your pet. Washing your hands thoroughly after cleaning pet environments or handling unfamiliar pets will also reduce the risk of transmitting infections. As much as we love those mushy kitten and puppy kisses, offering them your cheek or ear instead of your lips may be the safer option for everyone involved! HH
Dr. Farzad Ghazi is the owner and operator of Marina Animal Hospital located in the Park Lawn area. Marina Animal Hospital provides medical and dental care, surgery services and laboratory testing to all four-legged pets as well as aid for some legitimate rescue groups. He can be contacted at 416-255-2777. www.marinaanimalhospital.ca
Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 27
WHEELS ON THE WATERFRONT
Hitting THE Road Test-driving the Mercedes-Benz smart fortwo.
28 HumberBayShores.org
were wanting to consider the vehicle as your local “grocery-getter.” I know that there are people who drive these cars long distances without concern, and claim comfortable trips. Per-
© 2015 Daimler AG
E
veryone has seen them on the road and everyone has an opinion. The Mercedes-Benz Smart Car can’t help but stick out in a crowd and turn heads on the highway. But unconventional looks aside, the smart fortwo’s compact size could be the perfect fit for the everyday demands of condo life. Before stepping inside the vehicle, like many, my preconception had me thinking that I was going to be riding in a glorfied golf cart, retrofitted to pass the safety requirements of Ontario. I was pleasantly surprised at what I found. The interior, although not roomy by any standards as it is a two-seater, was spartan but roadworthy, providing that utility feel. I was completely comfortable. While in the driver’s seat, you sit quite erect, giving you a great view—which is quite reassuring when you are in a car that takes up only half a parking space. The ride was smooth and the handling very adequate. Manoeuvring was great, as one would expect from the very short wheelbase, lending itself to tight turns and easy parking in small spaces. Power was likewise suitable for its intended use as a runaround vehicle. I had it up at lower highway speeds. It felt stable enough, although I felt the higher centre of gravity and didn’t have confidence to try anything you would in a sports car—which, admittedly it is not. Safety is a top concern of the manufacturer and they have put a great deal of technology into the car in “space frame” and geometric configuration. There are a lot of tech-specs on the website if you
BY JAY PERRY
[I thought] I was going to be riding in a glorified golf cart . . . I was pleasantly surprised. sonally, I would still prefer my cruising vehicle when travelling extended periods. Locally, you may see a lot of these vehicles in the shared-car space, and spot car2go as the company providing that service. The car2go program warrants a $35 membership fee, which is then combined with your usage. This can be calculated down to the minute with their technology. Sample rates are $0.41 per minute; $14.99 per hour; $84.99 per 24 hours. Fuel, insurance, parking (within their lots) and maintenance are all included. According to the company, their customer base of 42,000 are all over the map as far as demographics go, with the oldest being in their 70s, ranging right down to the millennial crowd. They offer 24-hour customer service, run routine condition checks, carry a strict no-smoking policy, mandate that pets
must be kept contained and perform a driver’s abstract on each member. The local office management team sees these vehicles as a great choice for errand running, medical appointments, shopping excursions, dining out and visiting with friends. They alluded to improvements coming to the vehicle, which will increase power and handling. But if you were looking for a smaller vehicle for the quick runaround items, the current model would satisfy quite nicely. Until next issue, remember to keep the shiny side up! HH
Jay Perry is the founder and owner of Ally Business Coaching (ABC), a performance coaching company specializing in the automotive service industry. He is also on HBSCA board member. Reach him via e-mail at jayperry@a-b-c-inc.com.
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Top 1% in GTA Condo sales in 2014 Salesperson on the Waterfront in West Toronto*
ANIA BASKA
HBSCA would like to thank Rabba Fine Foods for their ongoing support of the community Waterfront Festival.
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Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 29
VITALITY TO THE CORE
NO PAIN ALL GAIN Training your way to a stronger core? Do your spine a favour and skip the sit ups.
FANTASTIC FOUR CORE ROUTINE
A1
A2
McGill Crunch
Side Plank
I
OFFICE
SPACE
AVAILABLE
ups, we flex the spine over and over which pumps the nucleus—the middle core of the disc of your spine—through the anullus. This results in a bulging or herniated disc, which presses on the nerve root and causes pain. This is an injury that occurs over hundreds and thousands of repetitions. A good core exercise program trains and strengthens all the muscles around
3 sets of 8 repetitions, hold the plank for 5 seconds
Rest 1 minute and repeat A1 & A2
BY GUY DUFOUR
n all good superhero movies, we have our hero and our villain. In the case of abdominal training, the bad guy is an old school exercise go-to—the infamous sit up. So what’s so bad about an exercise long made synonymous with washboard abs? The issue lies in the repeated pressure put on the vertebrae of your spine. When we perform sit
3 sets of 12 repetitions
B1
Stir the Pot
B2
Bird Dog
3 sets of 15 seconds for each direction 3 sets of 8, hold at the top for 5 seconds
Rest 1 minute and repeat B1 & B2
the spine, including the abdominals, back and gluteus muscles. The following four exercises will protect your spine while allowing you to strengthen your core:
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VITALITY TO THE CORE A1
The McGill Crunch
Named after its creator, spine expert Dr. Stuart McGill, this exercise allows you to crunch without sacrificing your spine. To perform the exercise, lie down on your back, bend one leg with your foot flat on the floor, and keep the other leg straight. Place your hands under your lumbar region to protect your back, and with your neck and head in a neutral position, lift your shoulders off the floor one or two inches.
A2
Side Plank
B1
Stir the Pot
Place your elbows and forearms on a stability ball and move into a plank position. Keeping your gluteus and abdominals contracted, move your elbows in a circular motion. Lying on your side, prop yourself up on one elbow, bringing your top leg forward. Lift your hips while keeping your back straight. To relieve pressure, reach across your chest and rest your opposite hand on your supporting shoulder.
B2
Bird Dog
Position yourself on your hands and knees, extend one arm and the opposite leg simultaneously. Focus on contracting your abdominals and keeping your hips parallel to the floor. You can learn more about core training online by searching for anti-rotation core exercises.
There are several spine-friendly movements that will allow you to effectively train your core. Still stumped? Shoot me an email. HH
Guy Dufour is the founder of Corefit Training. He is a certified personal trainer, strength coach and has a 2nd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Guy’s philosophy is that overall health and fitness is for life and can be achieved by everyone. He can be contacted via email at guy@corefittraining.ca.
HBSCA would like to thank Metro for their ongoing support of the community Waterfront Festival.
Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 31
LAKESHORE VIEW
Investing in Improvement
The province is strengthening infrastructure and securing a brighter future for seniors and students. BY PETER MILCZYN
T
his summer I toured the province on behalf of the Honourable Brad Duguid, Minister of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure. I met with local elected representatives, businesses, and residents to identify unique community needs and gather valuable input to help inform the delivery of the province’s infrastructure investment plan, Moving Ontario Forward. Over $130 billion will be invested in infrastructure in the next decade— the largest amount in the province’s history. These investments will foster the creation of jobs and support a dynamic and innovative business climate. In 2015-16, planned investments of $11.9 billion are driving key infrastructure projects such as: • Continuing highway improvement throughout northern Ontario; • Widening and improving Highway 417 in eastern Ontario; • Building rapid transit bus lanes in both York Region and Mississauga in the GTHA; • Constructing the Waterloo Rapid Transit project in southwestern Ontario; • Building new schools in areas of high growth, improving the conditions of existing school facilities, investing in projects to reduce surplus space through school consolidations; and • Approximately 40 major hospital projects that are under construction or in various stages of planning.
Building Together, Ontario’s 10-year infrastructure plan, is well underway and has already supported improved GO Transit service and other major projects such as: the Union Pearson (UP) Express, which will provide a dedicated 25-minute rail link connecting Pearson Airport with Toronto’s
I’m proud to be a member of a government that continues to invest in [the future]. Union Station; the Mississauga Transitway, the first phase of which includes four stations that were opened November 2014; and expansion of the Bus Rapid Transit (vivaNext) rapidways throughout York Region. Up to $300 million will be invested in ION, the Region of Waterloo’s 36 km rapid transit project linking Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge, and connecting GO train service between the Region of Waterloo and the GTA by 2017. Ontario is also securing a brighter future for seniors and students. The Ontario Retirement Pension Plan will provide a pre-
dictable stream of income in retirement for millions of Ontarians. Employees and employers will contribute an equal amount, capped at 1.9 percent each (3.8 percent combined) on an employee’s annual earnings up to $90,000. Ontario is also doubling the investment in the Seniors Community Grant Program from $1 million to $2 million to help more seniors stay engaged with their communities from 2015-16. In Toronto, the Public and Catholic School Boards will receive funding of $201,269,848 towards capital repairs of school facilities for the 2015-16 school year. The government has committed to investing $120 million over three years to create thousands of childcare spaces as well as investing $40 million in technology and innovations in classrooms from kindergarten to grade 12. The 30 percent tuition reduction for post-secondary students in need continues in place. In the spring, while visiting the Iron Workers Local 721 in Etobicoke-Lakeshore, the Premier announced $55 million for skilled trades apprenticeships in Ontario. I’m proud to be a member of a government that continues to invest in Ontario’s future by making critical investments in infrastructure, procuring a more secure future for our seniors and harnessing and cultivating the skills of our students. HH Please feel free to contact me at my Constituency Office at 933 The Queensway in Etobicoke, or by phone at 416-259-2249 or fax: 416-259-3704 with any of your questions, comments, or concerns.
Humber Happenings I Autumn 2015 33
COUNCILLOR’S CORNER
Maintaining a Sense of Safety
Working together to keep community streets and trails safe and pedestrian-friendly is a top priority. BY MARK GRIMES
H
umber Bay Shores is a unique community for many reasons, but one of the area’s rarest qualities is its abundance of beautiful parkland. Humber Bay Shores Parks East and West are two of the city’s most popular destination parks—and with popularity comes a special set of challenges. As councillor, one of my highest priorities is to keep our streets and trails safe and pedestrian-friendly. Speeding on residential streets has become a regular occurrence with concerns varying from fast pedaling cyclists to speed-happy motorists. As just one step towards resolving these concerns, I have designed a new cautionary lawn sign, available to all residents of Ward 6, free of charge. I appreciate all the support these signs have received; so far over 500 have been delivered across the community. Humber Bay Shores residents may have noticed them scattered along the multi-use trails throughout the neighbourhood parks. The lawn signs are designed to resemble true municipal traffic signs, with the intention of encouraging drivers and cyclists to slow down and act responsibly. To further combat the issue of dangerous traffic on our trails, I have requested our Parks Department set up an ongoing maintenance program to 34 HumberBayShores.org
trim back the foliage surrounding the trail, improving sight lines for both cyclists and pedestrians. There is currently a trail improvement project underway that will separate the trail into two sections—one for pedestrians, one for cyclists—from
A big attitude adjustment also needs to happen on the part of drivers and cyclists. the Humber River to Park Lawn Road. The project also looks at how to implement better indicators for areas of caution. There have already been several community consultations regarding this project, with more to come as implementation moves forward. Earlier this year I moved a motion at Etobicoke York Community Council requesting staff to report on measures to reduce traffic speeds on residential streets, including a reduction in speed limits, specifically in school zones,
parks and near daycares. I also moved a motion directing the city to request that the province look at doubling the fine for speeding in these areas. My office will also be holding community traffic meetings beginning this fall. These meetings will present an opportunity for residents to discuss their concerns with the appropriate city staff as well as the Toronto police. Making our streets safer will require some changes to our infrastructure, but a big attitude adjustment also needs to happen on the part of drivers and cyclists. Additionally, pedestrians must remember that they are walking along a multiuse path and to always keep their pets leashed and their children nearby. It is my hope that these signs and upcoming city initiatives will help remind everyone how to be a better neighbour. As always, I encourage residents to subscribe to my weekly e-newsletter to stay informed about community meetings happening in Ward 6 as well as any and all ongoing projects. Residents can subscribe to my e-newsletter at markgrimes.ca and I thank everyone for working alongside me to better our community. HH
Mark Grimes is the Councillor for Ward 6 EtobicokeLakeshore. He is a life-long resident, activist and businessperson in south Etobicoke. He can be reached by email at councillor_grimes@toronto.ca, or by phone at 416-397-9273.
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