North York Post October 2020 by Post City Magazines

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GLAM GROCER PUSATERI’S FLAGSHIP STORE TO BE TORN DOWN IN MASSIVE MIDTOWN REDEVELOPMENT

the future of toronto

DINING FEATURING CHEFS MASSIMO CAPRA, NUIT REGULAR, DAVID LEE, IVANA RACA & MORE WHERE WILL WE EAT? WHAT WILL WE EAT? WILL DINNER OUT EVER BE THE SAME?

OCTOBER 2020 · VOLUME 22 · ISSUE 1

NY-OCT-2020-IFC_OBC 2020-09-24 9:51 AM Page 1

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PRIVATE EDUCATION GUIDE Our 31st annual primer to the city’s top private schools and programs Page 43

COVER PHOTO CREDIT CHRISTOPHE GERNIGON STUDIO

TOP OF THE WORLD Penthouse condo designs that spared no expense

ETALK ANCHOR’S LOVE STORY Lainey Lui shares the cross-country tale of how she first met her husband

SWEATER WEATHER Jeanne Beker picks the cutest and cosiest sweaters for fall 2020

T.O.’S NEWEST VEG OPUS David Lee has transformed the old Chase Fish and Oyster spot

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THE FUTURE OF DINING Where will we eat? What will we eat? Will dining out ever be the same?

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THE POST INTERVIEW

OK Blue Jays, let’s playoff ball

NEWS

BY THE NUMBERS

Blue Jays play-by-play announcer and analyst Buck Martinez on the return to the post-season and competing in the World Series for years to come by Ron Johnson

Well, you know, given the extra round, the extra layer of teams, I thought they might have a chance. Obviously, there were a few injuries along the way. We lost some pitchers, but you know, it was industry-wide. Everybody in the game had to deal with injuries. But I think the enthusiasm of the young players was infectious. The fact that they quarantined in Rogers Centre for those three weeks in the summer, they became a team. They really came together. There were a lot of different personalities that came from different teams in different areas in different countries. They all came together as a team. I think the character and the chemistry of this team is very special. Who's been the biggest surprise in your eyes this season?

Obviously, you know, Teoscar Hernandez has really improved a lot. He's become a legitimate power-hitting outfielder. I would say the outfield of Gurriel, Grichuk and Hernandez has probably been the most consistent part of the team outside of the bullpen. But for me, the bullpen has been the biggest surprise without question. What are the club’s outstanding issues heading into the playoffs?

I think the defence is a concern. I think if you make mistakes in the post-season, they will probably cost you games. You know, they haven’t been a great base-running team. They’ve improved that somewhat. But I would say the defence. They have to play a clean game on defence to win. If they make mistakes that could be fatal, in the post-season, for sure. Who do you think the Blue Jays need more from to win?

[Starting pitcher] Hyun-Jin Ryu. He’s the guy that has to win game one of the wild card series [the lowest qualifiers playing each other before the main playoffs begin]. They will match up against the other team’s number one starter, and if you win that game, then you only have to play .500 for the rest of the series and you’re in [to face the top-seeded team in that league's division series]. So I think he becomes the most important individual on this team. And how will this taste of success help the team going forward?

Once you learn how to win, you never

$250 The amount, in millions, of a gift to the University of Toronto from a GTA couple, the largest ever made in Canada to a faculty of medicine.

What does Vlady [Vladimir Guerrero Jr.] need to do to take that next step?

I think we’re starting to see it now this last week of the season. He hasn’t struck out in about 30 plate appearances. He hasn't struck out in a long time. He’s putting the bat on the ball. He’s coming up with big hits. I think people have to remember, he’s just 21 years old. That’s the thing because he came up with so much hype. Everybody knew who he was from the time he signed. It’s been tough on him because the expectations are through the roof.

10 The world ranking for 21-year-old local tennis phenom Denis Shapovalov, who became the second Canadian to make the ATP’s top 10.

What makes you kind of excited about the future of the team?

I think the youth. They have the youngest position players in the majors. And [it’s hard] to have them go through this experience at the start of the season — 11 of the position players never played a full year in the majors. So I think what they have done this year is quite an accomplishment. It’ll only serve them well to have this kind of experience.

60 The number of pharmacies in Ontario that will be allowed to administer tests for COVID-19, including 18 in Toronto.

Do you see any similarities between this and past Blue Jays teams?

I see similarities with the ’85 Jays that won the division because it was a bunch of homegrown young players that had grown up together and learned how to win together. The ’92/’93 team was a cast of all stars from other places: [Paul] Molitor, [Dave] Winfield and Rickey Henderson, David Cone. They went out and they complemented a core of homegrown talent. But I see more similarities to that 1985 team under Bobby Cox.

2 The number of years budding young NBA star Jamal Murray lived at the Rosebud Motel, made famous by TV show Schitt’s Creek.

What does the team need to do to build on what they have achieved and compete for a championship for years to come?

Just remember how hard they played this year and continue to have that same approach. They never allowed the tough losses to affect how they prepared for the next day. They had a very short memory in that regard. I think that’s the one thing they have to remember. The experience of this season will serve them well if they continue to approach it the same way they did this year.

70 The number of years East York barber Jack Freer put in before COVID-19 forced his retirement at age 83.

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At the beginning of the season, did you think they’d have enough to make a run at the post-season like this?

want to do anything but win. This group of young players has won in the minor leagues, and now they are tasting the post-season in the major leagues for the first time. So I think it’s essential that you continue to push this group. And they are self-motivated. There's no question about it. They believe they can win a championship. And they had this expectation way back in spring training in Florida in February. So they have a lot of competition themselves, and they’re not satisfied by just making it to the post-season. They want to win games and advance.

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Tell me your thoughts on the team returning to the playoffs?

I think it was a great testimony to the character of this young team. Getting through all of the hurdles they had to go through, including the virus, the quarantine at Rogers Centre, not knowing where they were going to play their own games, travelling on the road. They did a great job: to be that young and staying that disciplined is very impressive.

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Fight over Mt. Pleasant heads to Supreme Court

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Local advocacy group takes their argument all the way and demands equitable system by David Olsen

A local citizens group and a city councillor have decided to pursue an appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada after the Ontario Court of Appeal overturned a lower court’s decision that would have resulted in greater public involvement in the Mount Pleasant Group of Cemeteries (MPGC). They believe the ruling on MPGC’s charitable status has far-reaching implications for cemeteries across Canada. MPGC was created by a special act of the legislature of Upper Canada in the 1800s. It now owns and controls 10 cemeteries covering 1,222 acres of land, including Mount Pleasant Cemetery in midtown, and as of 2014, was sitting on close to half a million dollars in funds. In 2013, Friends of Toronto Public Cemeteries (FTPC), and councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam, acting as a private citizen, launched a legal fight claiming the current appointment process of MPGC’s board of directors violated an 1849 statute. In December 2018, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice ruled that none of the MPGC’s directors had been appointed according to these rules. MPGC appealed the Ontario Superior Court’s ruling, believing that MPGC is not a charitable trust due to not serving a charitable

purpose and that an 1871 act incorporating MPGC negated the elections provisions in the 1849 act. In May 2020, a three judge court of appeal panel overturned the lower court’s decision. But Justice Sarah Pepall, writing on behalf of the panel, did note that since MPGC is a trust created by the province it could be relegislated if the province saw fit. “Canada is now at the point where we’re going to have to have this discussion. Burials and cemeteries are not easily digestible subjects. We deal with them only when we have to,” said Margot Boyd of FTPC. “But cemeteries are in the same category as hospitals and schools. They are these essential public services that have to be provided to people and society.” Boyd said that MPGC currently charges above market rates for services, leaving burial out of reach for the poor or working class. “Now we have a new model. Now, post decision, we have this American health-care style of cemetery because not everybody can afford to be buried in a cemetery,” said Boyd. “This decision opens this to happen across Ontario, and perhaps Canada, and that’s the problem. That’s why we’re doing this, and that’s why we’re going to the Supreme Court.

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Rendering of the 27-storey condo planned for 733 Mount Pleasant Rd.

A proposed condo tower near Mt. Pleasant Road and Eglinton Avenue East that ballooned in height has residents and city staff worried it will set a new precedent for the area. The application for 733 Mt. Pleasant Rd. originally called for nine storeys, when submitted in 2018, but was changed to 27 storeys in December 2019 after the province eased restrictions on tower height for the area, according to local councillor Josh Matlow. In June 2019, the province changed the Midtown in Focus plan without city consultation to allow for taller towers, especially near transit stations. Since 733 Mt. Pleasant Rd. is located around 160 metres from a future LRT station, it is a candidate for higher density. However, the site is also in the middle of a block of low-rise buildings, which means a tall tower there would stick out and go against “basic urban planning principles,” Matlow said. “[It] is completely unreasonable for that site,” he added. Matlow explained that usually there is a transition between taller towers, often close to transit stations and low-rises and residential homes. The towers go on the corners, with height gradually decreasing toward the smaller buildings. “City planners never recommended a tower on this site,” Matlow said. “They recommended a mid-rise due to the need for transition.”

Above all, Matlow is concerned about the precedent the development might set. Along with Matlow, residents have also voiced their concern about this development. Andy Gort, the president of the South Eglinton Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association (SERRA), said that his organization has spoken to city planning, Matlow and the developer. According to Gort, the area just doesn’t have the services needed to accommodate more people. He pointed to Eglinton Junior Public School being one of the most oversubscribed in the city, recreational centres stretched to their limits and a shortage of parks in the area, giving it one of the lowest ratios of parks to people in the city. “It’s busy now but about to be busier,” he said. “We’re concerned about general density in the area.” Even with the new LRT set to open in a few years time in the area, Gort thinks that the development will cause even more congestion on the Yonge subway line since the line is connecting residents from faraway neighbourhoods. He hoped the residents’ voices will be heard during a virtual community consultation meeting scheduled for late September. However, Gort said the application has already been appealed to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT), a provincial body that will make the final decision, so it is almost entirely out of their hands. “Whether we agree or disagree,

by Eric Stober

the developers basically signalled they don’t care because they will ask LPAT to decide,” he said. If the development does go through, it could mean the beginning of the end for the neighbourhood as it currently is. One famous shop in the area, Mabel’s Fables children’s bookstore, has already been bought by Maple Venture House Investments, along with six other properties on the street, and is on the chopping block for future development. Although that could be a decade from now, owner of the bookstore, Eleanor LeFave, said she is currently having trouble surviving after being in business for over 30 years. She said sales have taken a dramatic hit due to the pandemic and were already falling as a result of the construction of the Crosstown LRT. Now she has to contend with a potential 70 per cent increase to her rent due to her property being assessed for its “highest and best use” by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). Since the land could be used for a tall tower, the rent is set to increase to reflect that — a threat facing many businesses across the city, let alone on Mt. Pleasant. “All of the businesses will suffer and close [during its construction],” she said. “There’s no compensation.” As for how the neighbourhood will look in the future, LeFave offers a bleak outlook. “Who knows what will evolve after this,” she said.

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Quaint shops like Mabel’s Fables face challenges

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Development could alter strip forever

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NEIGHBOURHOOD

Safety plan for schools near shelter released City has taken steps, but midtown residents still concerned

John Fisher School is less than a kilometre from a homeless shelter

by David Olsen

The City of Toronto has released a Midtown School Safety Plan as children head back to school in an area local residents say has seen a spike in crime and dangerous incidents associated with the opening of a homeless shelter at the site of the Roehampton Hotel. A statement released by the city said the plan was produced with input from a variety of stakeholders associated with the Toronto District School Board (TDSB). The Roehampton Hotel, located at 808 Mount Pleasant Rd., was leased by the city earlier this year, along with two nearby properties on Broadway Avenue, to house people experiencing homelessness during COVID-19 as physical distancing was deemed difficult in the shelter system. Neighbours have complained of an increase in crime in the area. Although the Broadway sites were temporary and have since closed, city staff have negotiated a two-year lease with an option for extension at the Roehampton site. The close proximity of the shelter to several schools has worried local residents, including Tammy McLean, who has organized two demonstrations by those concerned about the safety in the neighbourhood. The city’s safety plan states the shelter is 170 metres from Northern Secondary School and 120 metres from Eglinton Junior Public School as well as less than a kilometre from John Fisher Public School and North Toronto Collegiate Institute.

According to the plan, cleaning services, including the picking up of needles, is to be completed each morning by the City of Toronto’s Facilities Management division at least a half hour before programming starts at the six schools. Community safety teams (CSTs) are to patrol the community 24/7 looking for inappropriate activity, with one CST member to be visible at each school as children are leaving and entering school. CST members will also pick up discarded drug

“I've also seen people doing drugs in front of this community safety team.” paraphernalia and intervene and assist with the redirection of shelter residents from school property. “We’re cautiously optimistic there might be some changes, but at the same time with the amount of incidents that are still happening, they [the CSTs] can’t be everywhere all the time, so we’re still very concerned there could be some sort of unfortunate incidents that will continue to happen,” said McLean. “I’ve also seen people doing drugs in front of this community safety team, and they are not there to intervene in that, so I’m not sure how helpful that’s going to be.”

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The city has added 25 kilometres of bike lanes this year

Yonge Street restructuring on the way? part-time professor at Osgoode Hall Law School, said he supports bike lane development but warns that new infrastructure could create new barriers for people with mobility challenges. Colle, who represents one of the corridor wards, said he wants to make Yonge Street a place where people will stop and shop. He said that right now the street is being used by “people just zooming through who don’t even live in the area.” “This is not a highway bypass,” Colle said. He explained that accommodating a cycling corridor on Yonge Street can be done. “The world didn’t end when we put CaféTO on Yonge Street,” he said, pointing to onstreet patio dining as an example. “It has been extremely successful.” But Lepofsky, who is blind, worries what such a change could mean for people who can’t move through the city as easily. “Sidewalk restaurant seating areas are a nightmare for people like me,” said Lepofsky. Councillor Josh Matlow said consulting on matters of accessibility is part of the plan. Layton noted that the city “took great care” to protect accessibility when bike lanes were built on Bloor Street. Councillor Stephen Holyday said he too is wary of the proposal. “As a member of council that represents a suburban ward and people that live in various parts of the city, I get concerned any

time someone proposes a significant change to a major arterial route,” Holyday said. Holyday is worried the proposal will have “enormous traffic impacts,” and says, instead, the city should continue encouraging on-street patio developments and change parking restrictions. Colle disagreed. “That is something out of the ’80s.” People know that increases in cycling “take hundreds of thousands of cars off the road,” he said. Matlow says the proposed bike lane is also a win for drivers. “It is to your benefit to have cyclists in their own lane,” Matlow said, pointing out that otherwise they slow down traffic. Thea Kurdi, vice-president of DesignABLE Environments Inc., said the reason the city keeps getting accessibility wrong is that the planners are not properly problem solving or taking into account diverse needs. “Accessible design is an afterthought,” Kurdi said. On bike lanes specifically, Kurdi explained that the city needs to consider all possible angles, including how the city will handle snow clearing and proper markings on the ground. She said the city needs to consider clear signage, noise and lighting. “It’s more sustainable to be accessible,” Kurdi said. “Rather than having to go back and change it, build it right the first time.”

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Toronto city councillors are looking to restructure roadways in another of the city’s neighbourhoods creating more bike-friendly routes, but accessibility advocates worry the approach could be problematic. At Toronto City Council’s Infrastructure and Environment Committee meeting on Sept. 17 , councillor Mike Colle introduced a recommendation to develop a protected bike lane on Yonge Street that would run from south of St. Clair Avenue to north of Lawrence Avenue. The development, which would be modelled after Destination Danforth, is proposed to take place by the second quarter of 2021. Councillor Mike Layton supports the proposal and said the city needs more bike paths on its north-south corridors. “When you look at Toronto’s bike plan, there’s a glaring gap between the midtown and the downtown,” Layton said. Layton said the city needs to ensure commuters have alternative ways to get to work while promoting sustainability and protecting residents. “People want to be able to bike,” he said, “but they just don’t feel safe.” Between 2017 and 2019, there were more than 15 serious collisions involving cyclists on the proposed stretch of Yonge Street, according to Toronto Police Service’s data. David Lepofsky, chair of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance and a

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City plans for area similar to Destination Danforth by Clare Shrybman

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Pusateri’s Development set to radically transform sleepy midtown neighbourhood Two towers and 455 residential units planned for the corner of Avenue and Lawrence, including the site of a popular glam grocer by David Olsen A development application that, if approved, would dramatically transform the northeast corner of the intersection of Avenue Road and Lawrence Avenue West has raised questions from several residents’ groups concerned about issues such as traffic and green space. Earlier this summer, First Capital Holdings submitted an official plan and zoning amendment application, as well as a rental housing demolition application for 284–290 Lawrence Avenue West and 1507–1545 Avenue Road. This application does not include 1549 Avenue Rd., which abuts Pusateri’s and is home to longtime retailer Royal Lighting. The applications are to facilitate the construction of two buildings, with heights of 13 and 10 storeys, featuring 455 residential units and 4,680 square metres of retail and commercial space.

A communication sent to North York Community Council on Sept. 8, 2020, jointly signed by four residents’ associations, noted concerns with the application with regard to building heights and no on-site public parkland as well as driveway and traffic issues. The groups are Bedford Park Residents Organization, South Armour Heights Residents’ Association, Lytton Park Residents’ Organization and Upper Avenue Community Association. A written statement from South Armour Heights Residents’ Association (SAHRA) said that although the group is not opposed to the redevelopment of the site, they want to ensure the best outcome for the community. The statement said that the groups agree on the key issues outlined in the letter and continue to be in contact with City of Toronto Planning and

councillor Mike Colle’s office and will be expressing the concerns to First Capital. “We strongly agree with the City that the site can and must accommodate a city park. Our neighbourhood is park deficient and this is one of the only opportunities to build a large park that will benefit all four residents’ groups and the wider community.” “Given the size of the site, the Developer is required to convey 15 per cent or 1,470 square metres to public parkland. “The Developer’s proposal does not include any public parkland. First Capital’s proposal will need to be revised to address this issue,” SAHRA’s statement says. The statement also says current planning policies permit mid-rise buildings and that SAHRA believes the height of the proposed buildings represent an overdevelopment of the site. “The upper levels of the

buildings facing both Avenue Road and Lawrence should be terraced back from the street to conform with existing planning policies,” it reads. Ted Butler, vice-president of Bedford Park Residents Organization said the group has concerns about the development’s impact on traffic not only on Lawrence Avenue and Avenue Road, but near the development’s entry points. He said he would also like to see the completion of the Douglas Greenbelt, a path that currently runs from Douglas Avenue to the back of 250 Lawrence Ave. W. “There’s a connectivity of the path that goes through the neighbourhood. If you look it up, it’s in the city parks plan, but it really doesn’t finish to Lawrence like it should,” said Butler, who said the issue wasn’t properly addressed during the development process of 250

Lawrence Ave. W. “Finishing this Douglas Greenbelt cross-ravine path is critical to the neighbourhood. We feel this is a wrong that needs to be corrected,” he said. Councillor Mike Colle said the corner is significant, as it is a gateway to the area, and this development will set a precedent as two other corners at the intersection could also be up for development soon. “It’s quite a significant-sized property that backs on to the Douglas Ravine and also it’s part of future efforts to make Avenue Road more of a people street — more than a highway bypass extension — so we have to get this right,” said Colle. “I’d love to see a setback on the corner where we can get a public plaza or public green space, where people can sit, have a coffee, read a book, just spend some time outside, so coming up Avenue Road you don’t just see another building. I’d like to see sort of a setback on that corner that not only the residents can use, but the whole community can avail themselves of,” he said. Colle said the development is known around his office as the Pusateri Development, named after the fine-foods grocer whose current location would be lost to the development. Colle said he would love to see Pusateri’s remain and be one of the anchor stores in the new development. “Pusateri’s has a very important place in food distribution and food retailing in Toronto and really set the standard for quality food long before anyone else understood or appreciated the fact that people wanted topquality products, and they were willing to pay a bit more and knew they were getting excellent top quality,” said Colle. “I know of the family, the sacrifice they made. They made a very viable business that’s employed a lot of people and provided a product there was obviously a demand for. They really were ahead of the curve. I’d love to see them remain there as one of the anchor stores.” The amendments and demolition application were considered by North York Community Council on Sept. 10 and were due to be considered by Toronto City Council on Sept. 30. Toronto’s city planning division has recommended staff schedule a community consultation meeting with the ward councillor.

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L-R: New development incorporates numerous properties along Avenue Road and Lawrence Avenue; and a rendering of the proposed development

NEWS

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FEATURE

POST CITY X DIAMOND & DIAMOND

7 back to school safety tips from Diamond & Diamond Lawyers Tips from Jeremy Diamond of Diamond & Diamond Lawyers JEREMY DIAMOND Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation.

Back-to-school is usually a time of excitement mixed with a little bit of nervousness. However, due to the global pandemic, back to school time in Canada and the rest of the world is very different this year. For parents and students both, protecting the health of children and parents alike can be challenging. Sandra Ziskind, Managing Partner of Diamond and Diamond Lawyers shares, "we're committed to helping protect the health of everyone. Our personal injury legal team is dedicated to helping our community follow the best practices for social distancing and wearing protective masks."

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Review classroom changes Check the website for your school's policies regarding social distancing, hand washing, and wearing masks. Then, review these procedures with your child or children to make sure that they fully understand what will be expected of them, including how they play with their friends and the impor-

tance of social distancing. Be sure to equip your children with plenty of hand sanitizer and extra masks when they go to school. Communicate with the school Parents and schools both want your children to stay safe while benefiting from the classroom environment. "Parents should feel comfortable asking questions and providing feedback to the school whenever possible, especially as we're all navigating uncertain and often changing circumstances" shares Isaac Ziskind. Attend meetings, either virtually or in-person, and take advantage of every opportunity to participate in the school system. Isaac continues, "We all have a responsibility to provide feedback to the school about any concerns or any gaps in order to make this adjustment as safe as possible." Practice daily self-checks Invest in a good thermometer – Fore-

head thermometers have made daily temperature checks easy and fast. Also, make yourself and your family aware of the symptoms of the coronavirus, and perform daily self-checks before leaving for work or school in the morning. Know the symptoms of COVID-19 Check with your doctor about the list of symptoms of COVID-19. Don't just write off symptoms as a cold or allergies – sometimes, the symptoms of both of these mimic those of coronavirus. If you or your child exhibits one or more coronavirus symptoms, stay home and seek medical advice. Remember good hygiene habits at home Keeping up good hygiene practices at home helps to protect everyone around you. Get everyone used to wearing masks in public as well as changing clothes when they get home from school and washing hands after eating, sneezing, and anytime you

come home after a school day or other outing. Identify touchpoints Some places are more susceptible to COVID-19 to be transmitted than others. Understanding which places in your child's school have a higher risk of being "germed up" can help them make better decisions about their hygiene and how to best avoid possible infections. Higher-risk touchpoints include door handles, elevator buttons, the playground and more. Talk with your family Encourage dialogue with your entire family. “Take time to listen to the concerns children have and reassure them that they are safe provided they are following the proper protocol" shares Jeremy Diamond. He continues “with parents, teachers, and students alike taking the proper precautions, we’re confident that children can go back to school in a safe manner this year.”

CRIME

NEWS

AREA BREAK-INS SEPTEMBER 2020 — TORONTO

WHERE

WHEN

TIME OF DAY

WILSON AVE. AND LADY YORK AVE.

SEPT. 1

6 A.M.

BEECROFT RD. AND LORRAINE DR.

SEPT. 1

6 A.M.

SHAFTESBURY AVE. AND OTTAWA ST.

SEPT. 1

8 A.M.

GORMLEY AVE. AND LAWTON BLVD.

SEPT. 1

3 P.M.

ANNDALE AVE. AND BALES AVE.

SEPT. 1

4 P.M.

BAYVIEW AVE. AND THE BRIDLE PATH

SEPT. 1

9 P.M.

LYTTON BLVD. AND DUPLEX AVE.

SEPT. 2

12 P.M.

CARTWRIGHT AVE. AND JANE OSLER BLVD.

SEPT. 2

3 P.M.

BAYVIEW AVE. AND HOLLYWOOD AVE.

SEPT. 5

2 P.M.

BALMORAL AVE. AND YONGE ST.

SEPT. 6

12 A.M.

ST. CLEMENTS AVE. AND CASTLEWOOD RD.

SEPT. 8

10 A.M.

HAZELTON AVE. AND SCOLLARD ST.

SEPT. 8

7 P.M.

DREWRY AVE. AND NORWIN ST.

SEPT. 8

11 P.M.

HURON ST. AND BERNARD AVE.

SEPT. 14

1 P.M.

GLENCAIRN AVE. AND DUPLEX AVE.

SEPT. 16

9 P.M.

DUPONT ST. AND BEDFORD RD.

SEPT. 19

1 A.M.

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CRIME BRIEFS

Toronto Police Service officers have arrested a 56-year-old male teacher at Rosedale Heights School of the Arts as part of a sexual assault investigation. It is alleged that between 2015 and 2019 the teacher sexually assaulted two girls who were students at the school. Police arrested the suspect on Sept. 8. He is charged with two counts of sexual assault and two

counts of sexual exploitation. He has been employed at Rosedale Heights School of the Arts since 2004, and previously taught at Don Mills Collegiate, between 1999 and 2004, and Georges Vanier Secondary School from 1998 to 1999. Police are concerned there may be other victims. Police have released an image of a suspect wanted as part of a mischief investigation after an incident at Eglinton Junior Public School. On Sept. 22, at approximately 10 a.m., police attended the school, located at 223 Eglinton Ave. E., after a City of Toronto community safety team member saw a male suspect leave a package by the school. The package contained several syringes and other paraphernalia. The suspect left the area riding a bicycle. The community safety team is part of the city’s safety plan for schools in the area of the homeless shelter at the site of the former Roehampton Hotel, located 120 metres away from the school. The safety plan was formulated after residents complained of an increase in crime and drugrelated incidents. The suspect was arrested later the same day.

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a 26-year-old Toronto male suspect after three retail robberies in the areas around Bloor Street West and Ossington Avenue and Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue. It is alleged that, on Aug. 29, three retail store robberies were committed. In each instance, a male suspect entered the premises while concealing his identity with a mask. The suspect gave a note to the employees, demanding money and indicating he had a gun. The suspect was unsuccessful at the first two locations and left empty-handed. At the third location, he took a quantity of cash and fled the scene. Officers arrested the male suspect on Aug. 31. He is charged with three counts of robbery and three counts of disguise with intent.

Police have arrested

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Toronto Police Service officers have made an arrest after a home invasion in the area of St. Clair Avenue West and Avenue Road. On Sept. 4, it is alleged that a female and a male suspect forced their way into a male victim’s apartment while another male suspect waited outside in a getaway vehicle. As the victim attempted to call 911, the female suspect began screaming, punching and scratching the victim. The male suspect then stole the victim’s cellphone, pointed a gun to the victim’s head and then hit him with a gun. The male suspect then dragged the female suspect from the residence and they fled in the waiting vehicle. It is also alleged that, on Sept. 18, the same female suspect arrived at the victim’s place of work and began yelling, swearing and spitting on the victim. The suspect then fled the building and the victim called the police. The suspect was later located and taken into custody without incident. The female accused, 22, of Toronto, has been charged with break and enter, robbery with an offensive weapon and two counts of assault. The two male suspects remain outstanding.

COVID -19 NOTICE Rest assured, all aspects of my business are conducted with strict safety precautions in place. Relaxed COVID-19 related restrictions are done in accordance with the Ontario government’s framework to protect the health and safety of our clients and colleagues.

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91 HANNA RD.

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382 FAIRLAWN AVE.

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151 YONGE BLVD.

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32 WALDER AVE.

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155 YORKVILLE AVE. #3112

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REAL ESTATE

NEWS

FASHION DISTRICT

SUMMERHILL

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The three-storey condo at 332-40 Oaklands Ave. comes with three bedrooms and upscale finishes throughout. It has a private rooftop terrace and is on offer with Forest Hill Real Estate Inc.

The “wellness pad” at 901-500 Wellington St. W. has two bedrooms, an integrated aromatherapy system, infrared sauna, cove ambient lighting and a 70-foot-long terrace. It is listed with Hazelton Real Estate Inc.

PENTHOUSE DEMAND

No expense was spared in the design of these glamorous, over-the-top suites. From massive terraces, to elaborate walk-in closets (and even the odd infrared sauna or built-in aromatherapy system) these ritzy condos have it all (and more).

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BRIDLE PATH

$5.5 MIL FOR A TWO-STOREY SUITE

With high ceilings, three bedrooms and 3,615 square feet of space, Unit 303 at 238 Davenport Rd. feels more like a single-family house than a condo. It boasts a huge terrace and walk-in closet and is listed with Forest Hill Real Estate Inc.

$2.89 MIL FOR A NEWLY RENOVATED SUITE

The 3,000-square-foot suite at 3D-2 Chedington Pl. boasts two bedrooms, a private elevator and two terraces. Plus the building has a 24-hour gatehouse, valet and car wash on site. It’s on offer with Forest Hill Real Estate Inc.

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YORKVILLE

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DECOR

HOMES

Brian Gluckstein’s five home decor trends to embrace this fall Canada’s legendary designer outlines his favourites, from bold patterns to upholstery and wicker

Rich jewel tones and shiny metals add a bit of glamour to any room

space feeling light and airy with all that material. Caning and wicker

These earthy materials are having a major resurgence since they were last seen popping up everywhere in ’90s homes. There are so many ways to incorporate this trend on any budget, from smaller decor to

larger pieces of furniture, and it’s perfect if you love a more natural, organic look. I especially love the added texture and warmth of these materials whether it be a canebacked chair, wicker baskets or even a light fixture. Deep saturated colours

Monochrome spaces have been big for a while now, but lately we’ve seen a shift to a starker contrast of black and white: be it a graphic tile pattern, black-framed windows or doors paired with creamy white walls, or simply an intriguing mix

Upholstered walls and headboards

I love this trend because I love the cosiness and texture that upholstered walls bring to a space. They’re especially great in apartments or attached homes as they are great for insulating and soundproofing your home. You can create a custom upholstered wall to perfectly fit the size of your space or find an upholstered headboard for a more restful bedroom. If you want to add some softness to your space, this trend is just what you need.

BRIAN GLUCKSTEIN Catch Brian Gluckstein on Cityline, where he is a regular guest expert, and shop his collection, GlucksteinHome, at Hudson’s Bay.

Rich colours — especially in the

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Slipcovered sofas and chairs add a beautifully relaxed quality to the living, dining, or even the bedroom. This trend is great if you’re someone who likes a softer, more laidback look, and embraces the soft wrinkles of the fabric on the skirt and cushions. Slipcovered sofas and chairs work especially well in lighter-coloured fabrics like creams and greys, since they keep a

Bold black and white

of black and white furniture and decor. I love how much drama and soulfulness this trend can add to the home, and it’s great for someone who loves a look with high impact.

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Slipcovered seating

form of jewel tones — are big this season, and if you’re someone who loves a bit of glamour, this trend could be just right for you. Saturated colours have such an inviting, luxurious appeal, and they work especially well on textured materials like velvet and silk. A richly hued velvet sofa paired with colour-co-ordinated walls, drapery and trim creates such a cosy, cocoon-like feel to a room. Mix in shiny metals to add even more glamour to the space.

A change in seasons is always an inspiring time to make some changes for a fresh new start. When it comes to the home, cooler temperatures mean more time indoors, so cosy up and tweak your space to get it just right for the season ahead. For fall, there are a ton of great trends out there, but it can be overwhelming to know which to incorporate into your space. Here I’ve highlighted five of my favourite fad-free fall trends, as a designer who always seeks to create timelessly stylish spaces that will be loved for the long haul.

FALL HOME DESIGN

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FALL HOME DESIGN WINTER PROTECTION Winter is approaching, and along with putting on our winter coats and boots, we must also take care of our landscaping. Although a lot of things can still be done in the winter, most people prefer not to bother. To protect your concrete and natural stone landscapes from our harsh winters, special care must be taken. When most people think of winter, they think salt. You can purchase salt directly from us in bulk and bagged at wholesale prices. There are also alternative products out there for others who prefer to protect their landscaping by different methods.

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Now is the time to inspect your roof and get any needed repairs done. If your roof is over 20 years old, you should have an inspection as the manufacturer’s warranty in most cases has ended. If the roof is 15 to 21 years old and you see cracked, curled, raised or cupped shingles, have it inspected. These are signs of wear and aging and sometimes lack of ventilation. If you have too much heat in the attic, then ask your roofing contractor how to improve ventilation. E.W. Smith Roofing has been awarded the Consumer’s Choice Award in roofing for the last four years, in the Toronto Central area. Call E.W. Smith Roofing at 416-467-7663.

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FASHION

SWEATER WEATHER

JEANNE BEKER One of Canada’s most trusted authorities on fashion, Jeanne has covered the industry for more than 30 years. Now watch her on TSC’s Style Matters with Jeanne Beker or tune into her new podcast Beyond Style Matters.

Once you feel that autumn breeze, it's time to get cosy. We asked Jeanne Beker to pick the best sweaters for fall that you can dress up for a night out or wear for that daily Zoom meeting.

LIP SMACKER STRIPE IT UP

SPLATTER STYLE

CanopyBlue.ca, $158, “I love black and white strips, and it's got that shoulder detailing. We're supporting a Canadian label: Smythe.”

Want.ca, $475.95, “I like this cashmere rainbow foil, and I love the idea of paint splatters and the irreverence of it.”

NEUTRAL FUZZ PERFECT PINK

IntermixOnline.com, $568.79, “This shoulder detailing is a very big trend now, especially if you're still doing Zoom calls.”

TheBay.com, $365.99, “I love this Margiela one. It's beautiful with these long luxurious sleeves with the olive green accents.”

PUFF SLEEVES

WARM IN WOOL

METALLIC GLAM

TNTFashion.ca, $881, “I love the balloon sleeve detailing, and it's merino wool, so it will be soft. It looks really comfy.”

MaskaMode.com, $169, “I love this metallic detailing, it's going to look very glamorous. It's a beautiful sweater.”

A TOUCH OF DRAMA

HoltRenfrew.com, $1,095, “I really love this Isabel Marant sweater. It's got the oversized puff shoulders; there's a lot of drama to this.”

GREY AREA

NECK WARMER ULTRA LUXE

GO GRAPHIC

MaskaMode.com, $189, “This is a real standout. The heart print is really fun and graphic. It has a lot of whimsy to it.”

CAT LOVER

LOOKING FOR LAYERS

SportingLife.ca, $519.98, “I love this one. It's so charming. It's adorable. I want one in every colour. I adore the whimsy of this.”

AndrewsCo.com, $620, “I love a generous, cosy turtleneck, and it works perfectly as a layering piece. It has an elegant simplicity.”

COSY IN CASHMERE

Fredas.com, $430, “This is so perfect for the season. You want to go gather pumpkins in this ribbed cashmere sweater.”

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Want.ca, $199.95, “I adore the lips. They're just absolutely adorable. This sweater is really fun. It doesn't take itself seriously.”

RAINBOW FOIL

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SMOOCH SWEATER

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ARTS

CURRENTS

Fall in love with the arts Live and online cultural happenings in Toronto

by Harriette Halepis

Clockwise from left: Fall for Dance North, Dance in High Park and the National Ballet of Canada at Harbourfront Centre

The legendary Horseshoe Tavern, basically ground zero for the city’s indie rock scene, is hosting its first two live shows since the pandemic on Oct. 16 and 17. These shows will be seated, physically distanced tables and all that jazz. The stage will even be Plexiglas, for gosh sakes. The Arc Sound (Oct. 16) and Tommy Youngsteen (Oct. 17) will each play three sets. The Danforth Music Hall and Velvet Underground are offering live streamed concerts throughout the fall. These concerts provide viewers with a chance to choose the best viewing angle (multiple cameras) with proceeds from tickets going to artist-choice charities. The lineup includes Marianas Trench, Frazey Ford and others. Tickets are around $20 each with more details at https://livefrominside.ca/.

On Oct. 7, 16 and 17, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) will perform three live concerts at the CityView Drive-In. Orchestra members will perform onstage while music fills concert-goer cars. LED screens will provide attendees with a clear view of the musicians. The CityView DriveIn concerts will be the largest live TSO performance since the beginning of the pandemic. Contactless tickets are $80 to $200 per car and must be purchased in advance through Ticketmaster or through the TSO at 416-598-3375. Fall for Dance North

The sixth edition of Fall for Dance North: The Flip Side will be a live + digital dance festival experience that runs at ffdnorth.com from Sept. 29 to Oct. 18. The reimagined festival has a “Netflix-style” website for accessing all the festival’s virtual content as well as a signature live stream performance featuring six world premieres from Canadian dancemakers. The ticketed event will live stream on Oct. 3 at 2 p.m. from the Fleck Dance Theatre at ffdnorth.com for $15. Planet In Focus: International Environmental Film Festival

The 21st Planet In Focus International Environmental Film

Festival (PIF) will take place virtually from Oct. 14 to 18. The films screened at this festival come from all over the world with one main focus: raising environmental awareness through film. The festival kicks off with Jennifer Abbott and Joel Bakan’s The New Corporation: The Unfortunately Necessary Sequel and includes films by Andrew Niksler, Scott Resler and other filmmakers focused on environmental issues. general public sales. The Groundswell Festival

Nightwood Theatre’s Groundswell Festival features readings, interviews and more from the company’s Write From The Hip Playwrights unit, led by program director DonnaMichelle St. Bernard. Audiences are invited to explore new works from Bilal Baig, Shelley M. Hobbs, Erum Khan, Rachel Mutombo, Pesche Nepoose and Phoebe Tsang. Dance in High Park

One of the city’s cherished cultural touchstones, Shakespeare in the Park, was cancelled this year, but live in-person performances will happen at the High Park amphitheatre from Sept. 16 to Oct. 11. The one-act, family-friendly performances will be physically distanced and will follow the city’s pandemic protocols. The three weekend

performances will include Solo in High Park (Sept. 26–27 at 2 p.m.), Dusk Dances in High Park (Oct. 3–4 at 2 p.m.) and Red Sky In High Park (Oct. 9 at 5:30 p.m., Oct. 10 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. and Oct. 11 at 1 p.m.). The High Park performances are “pay what you can,” but reservations are required (canadianstage.com). Canadian Stage SubscriberPlus pass holders can reserve tickets now with Royal Conservatory concerts

The Royal Conservatory of Music will host the dean of Toronto jazz piano, Hilario Durán, for a concert on Oct. 24, which will be a live performance with reduced capacity at Koerner Hall to allow for physically distanced seating and new pandemic protocols, and it will also be live streamed. The concert will feature music Durán composed for the just-released film The Cuban, starring Oscar Award winners Louis Gossett Jr. and Shohreh Aghdashloo. Ticket purchasers will be provided with information and special instructions prior to the concert. Festival of Authors

The International Festival of Authors will offer 200 free and virtual author events “celebrating the stories of our city.” The festival will include lectures, discussions, readings and Q & A sessions held virtually with Canadian authors, including Margaret Atwood,

Desmond Cole, Linwood Barclay, Harlan Coben and many others. The complete festival lineup is at Festivalofauthors.ca. National Ballet of Canada

The National Ballet of Canada will be at the Harbourfront Centre for five weeks this fall. The ballet will be performing The Dreamers Ever Leave You from Oct. 9 to 17 in the Brigantine Room. To respect social distancing, seats are limited. Tickets will go on sale on Sept. 30 at 11 a.m. at national.ballet.ca. imagineNATIVE Festival

The annual imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival will happen online this year starting on Oct. 20 and running until Oct. 25. The Art Crawl kicks off on the 22nd at 7 p.m. with a selection of visual artworks. Works that will be showcased during the festival include Sāmoan Hxstories, Screens, and Intimacies; Medicine and Magic; Constellations of Kin; and others. Night of the Indigenous Devs returns virtually on Oct. 23, featuring five reality and video games from native developers. The Art Crawl and Night of the Indigenous Devs are free with all-access festival passes starting at $60. Tickets can be purchased at festival.imaginenative.org.

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Music is back

Toronto Symphony Orchestra at CityView Drive-In

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In a normal year, the arts and culture offerings in Toronto kick into overdrive in October. The theatre season gets underway, all the big concerts are announced, ballet, orchestra and festival after festival. It’s a scene, man. We all know where we’re at now. The live events industry in the city has been decimated. But funny thing about artists, they gotta art. And to that end, there are still cultural happenings in new and unique ways, both virtually and live. Herewith, our fall arts guide.

CURRENTS

GREAT ESCAPES

Seven haunted spots to visit near Toronto this Halloween From a 100-year-old ‘ghost lounge’ to a local pub with plenty of paranormal activity There’s no doubt Halloween will look a little bit different this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still get your creep on — in a safe and socially distant manner, of course. Although haunted houses and packed clubs may be a no go, there are still plenty of ghoulish activities to keep you busy this Halloween weekend, including a local road trip to one of Ontario’s spookiest haunted towns. With its rich historical narrative and smattering of eerie edifices like jails, schools and haunted homes, the province is rife with towns totally worthy of an episode of Stranger Things. Who needs a Halloween party this year. Hop in the car and explore one of these Ontario ghost towns instead. Bala

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The Bala Bay Inn in Bala, Muskoka, is rife with ghost stories. Built 110 years ago, the inn is still home to the so-called “ghost lounge,” where the original proprietor’s body remained for

evening, be sure to visit the Jester’s Court — an unassuming pub that is said to be the source of much paranormal activity, including taps turning on and off by themselves, salt shakers being thrown across the table and even paintings that spin around on the walls. Hamilton

A caretaker’s ghost is said to roam the halls of the Peterborough Theatre Guild

days after he died in 1916. The room in which he died is still said to be the source of strange tapping noises and paranormal activities like televisions turning on and off by themselves.

stories. Visitors of the Peterborough Theatre Guild have claimed to have been ushered inside by a kind, elderly caretaker who has been dead for years and now haunts the building.

Peterborough

Port Perry

The town of Peterborough definitely isn’t short on ghost

If you happen to find yourself in Port Perry and fancy a haunted

Hamilton is another Ontario town that’s rife with ghost stories, one of which involves a pair of forbidden lovers — Jane Riley and Joseph Rousseau. The couple was in love, but when Joseph’s mother didn’t approve of the couple, Jane flung herself off a cliff near Albion Falls and, as a result, the cliff was dubbed Lover’s Leap. As the story goes, her ghost later visited Joseph’s mother right before she died. London

London is home to multiple haunted locales worthy of a visit. Of the more noteworthy hangouts for local London ghosts is the

by Mackenzie Patterson Middlesex County Courthouse, where some of the 15 criminals that were sent to the gallows still allegedly haunt the building today. St. Catharines

If you’re looking for one of the most haunted buildings in St. Catharines, look no further than 12 Yates St., which today is known as the Whitehouse of Rock and the home of 610 CKTB radio. Rumour has it the building is the source of much paranormal activity, including random cold spots, doors opening and closing on their own and, well, actual ghost sightings. Cooper’s Falls

Snap the perfect creepy Halloween Instagram pic when you visit this ghostly abandoned town in Simcoe County. First settled in the mid-19th century by Thomas and Emma Cooper, the town has been dubbed a “ghost town” since the 1960s because of its eerie, largely abandoned vibe.

Ocean plastic may outweigh fish by 2050 Shifting to plant-based plastics is crucial Almost every product and material we refer to as “plastic” is made from fossil fuels. Most of it hasn’t been around for long — a little over 70 years for the most common products. North American grocery stores didn’t start offering plastic bags until the late 1970s. Over that short time, plastics have become ubiquitous. A Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) report says global plastic production exploded 200fold between 1950 and 2015 — from two million to 380 million metric tons. Plastic is everywhere, from the ocean depths to mountaintops, from Antarctica to the Arctic — even in our own bodies. As the report points out, almost every piece of plastic begins as a fossil fuel. This creates greenhouse gas emissions throughout its life cycle, from extraction and transport to refining and manufacturing to managing waste and impacts. The report projects these emissions could reach 1.34 gigatons per year by 2030 — “equivalent to the emissions released by more than 295 new 500-megawatt coal-fired power plants.” There are good reasons for plastic’s popularity. It’s lightweight, durable, inexpensive, easily shaped and can be used to safely store many materials, from water to chemicals. That it’s longlasting is part of the problem.

Plastics don’t decompose like organic substances. Instead, they break down into smaller and smaller pieces, much of which ends up in oceans, where it is consumed by marine life and birds. These “microplastics” work their way through the food web and eventually to humans. There’s still much to learn about microplastic’s health effects, but exposure in animals has been linked to liver and cell damage, infertility, inflammation, cancer and starvation. The 50,000 plastic particles that each of us breathes and eats every year and the microplastic pollution falling on some cities undoubtedly have an impact, especially as many of the chemicals in plastics are known to cause a range of health problems. A recent study also shows the ocean plastics problem is worse than thought — although with tonnes of plastic debris and particles swirling in massive ocean gyres, it’s hard to imagine it could be. The study, from the U.K.’s National Oceanography Centre, found the Atlantic has 10 times more plastic than had been estimated. Researchers previously calculated the amount entering the Atlantic between 1950 and 2015 to be from 17 million to 47

million tonnes. New measurements show it’s closer to 200 million. Another report, from the World Economic Forum, Ellen MacArthur Foundation and McKinsey and Company, estimated the oceans could hold more plastic by weight than fish by 2050 if trends continue. Because most plastic doesn’t get recycled, researchers also estimated that 95 per cent of plastic packaging value — worth $80 to $120 billion annually — is lost. It also found that by 2050 the entire plastics industry will consume 20 per cent of total oil production and 15 per cent of the world’s annual carbon budget. The study, “The New Plastics Economy,” outlines steps whereby circular economy principles could resolve many issues around plastics in the environment. These require eliminating all problematic and unnecessary plastic items; innovating to ensure the plastics are reusable, recyclable or compostable; and circulating all plastic items to keep them in the economy and out of the environment. And although individual efforts are helpful, they don’t go far enough. As Carroll Muffett, lead author of the CIEL report, argues, we can’t “recycle our way out of the plastics crisis.” Instead, we must stop producing fossil fuels and unnecessary disposable plastic items. Reducing use is key, but shifting to plant-based plastics and other products is also crucial. As we’ve written before, the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed flaws in our outdated economic systems, but it has also provided an opportunity to pause and figure out how to build back better. Our constant rush to exploit resources, burn fossil fuels and create disposable plastic products for the sake of short-term profits is putting all life and health at risk. We should have started phasing out fossil fuels and their byproducts decades ago when we realized they were creating massive amounts of air, water and land pollution and heating the planet to temperatures that put our health and survival at risk. The longer we delay, the more difficult change becomes. It’s time for new ideas. It’s time for a just, green recovery.

pop-up Classes! AHAVAT YISRAEL HEBREW SCHOOL IS THRILLED TO INTRODUCE AN INNOVATIVE NEW PROGRAM

UvɷP t1 HEBREW

R CHILD’S CATION DESIGN YOU U D JEWISH ED E R O IL A -T M CU STO • Teachers will follow all Covid 19 safety protocols • Arrange your own small group of similar aged children from your Bubble • Pick a time that works best for you in the comfort of your own home • We will provide in-home Jewish Learning • No more schlepping to Hebrew School • Over 25 years of experience in Jewish Education

Want more information? 416 781 8088 / ahavatyisrael@sympatico.ca Charitable Tax Receipts Provided

AHAVAT YISRAEL H E B R E W

S C H O O L

Join us on our Newly EXPANDED and HEATED PATIO DINE-IN is Also OPEN Reservations available

We're serving full-course Turkey Dinners for the Thanksgiving weekend Curbside Pick-up Available

www.windfieldsrestaurant.com Delivery Now Available

DAVID SUZUKI David Suzuki is the host of the CBC’s The Nature of Things and author of more than 30 books on ecology (with files from Ian Hanington).

Windfields will remain open at our current location (801 York Mills Road) for several more years!

801 York Mills Road (at Leslie) 416.445.1630

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A study found that the Atlantic has 10 times more plastic than had been estimated

CURRENTS

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DAILY PLANET

CURRENTS

LOCAL GRADUATES

Gaining 2 mil subscribers Amanda Rach Lee on choosing YouTube over post-secondary education by Julia Mastroianni

REPORT CARD More than anything, Midtown Toronto is a great reflection of who we are. We specialize in luxurious and eclectic homes in Midtown Toronto Come meet the neighbourhood.

Amanda Rach Lee GRADUATED:

Earl Haig Secondary School

Mark Jobling

Erika D: 416.452.4967 O: 416.925.9191 erika

STUDENT:

D: 416.568.8577 O: 416.925.9191 markjobling

BEST SUBJECT:

www.lovemidtown.ca

English WORST SUBJECT:

Physics CURRENT JOB:

This is not intended to solicit buyers under contract. E. & O.E.

YouTube Creator

Amanda Rach Lee’s YouTube channel focuses on bullet journals

Founded in 1961, TMS is a leading, accredited co-ed independent school in Richmond Hill, ON that oﬀers a uniquely designed framework combining the Montessori and International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes. Our student population of over 780 thrives academically while developing the life-changing mindsets of entrepreneurial thinking, positivity, and resilience. Our students strive for Significance at university, and in life. FINDING THE RIGHT SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD IS VERY IMPORTANT We'd love to host you, introduce ourselves and show you the depth of who we are and the place within which your child can say I Am Known. Register Online Today for a Virtual Information Session this Fall.

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Upcoming Virtual Information Sessions

Lower School (Toddler to Grade 6) October 22, 2020 – 9:30 AM November 5, 2020 – 9:30 AM Upper School (Grade 7 – 12) November 3, 2020 – 9:30 AM November 10, 2020 – 9:30 AM

When Amanda Rach Lee, a YouTube creator best known for her bullet journaling videos, started filming her own channel on YouTube in high school, it looked very different from today. “There were some DIY videos [I did], some beauty and fashion videos, some lifestyle videos. It was kind of a mishmash of everything,” Lee says. That first year, she says she didn’t even tell her parents what she was doing. “I was secretly filming in my bedroom whenever they weren't home, whispering and secretly posting videos.”

“When I saw a video on bullet journaling, I just felt I needed to do it.” Lee’s channel grew in popularity pretty steadily over the years, but when she reached the end of high school, she found her niche — bullet journaling, a personal organization system that combines scheduling, reminders, to-do lists and more. “I had discovered bullet journaling and I made one video about it, and there seemed to be a lot of people who were interested in it,” she says. “So I kept doing those while still doing the beauty and fashion videos.” Lee says she realized that most of her viewers were interested in her art and bullet journaling, so she focused on those areas. By the time she was graduating high school at

Earl Haig, Lee decided to defer business school for a year and focus solely on YouTube. “I did well academically in school and applied to all great schools. So I think to a lot of people, including my parents and even myself at times, too, it was kind of like, ‘Is this a waste of time?’ ” she says. But Lee says that, by the end of her first year out of high school, she realized YouTube could be her fulltime job. “It was really fascinating to me because I went to an art program within [Earl Haig] called Claude Watson, so I was doing visual art every day in high school. So it was kind of funny that after I graduated from high school, I ended up still doing art every day,” she says. Lee credits the creator of the bullet journaling system, Ryder Carroll, with inspiring her to start with bullet journaling. “I've always been a planner person, even growing up in school, when they would give you your little school planner, I would find ways to customize it. So when I saw a video on bullet journaling, I just felt like I needed to do it.” Lee says her style of bullet journaling combines art and creativity with planning and that’s what draws her viewers. Her following, now at almost two million, grew so much that Lee was able to launch her own brand of stationery last year, starting with a doodle planner. “It kind of does go full circle because that first year, when I had taken a year off, I was meant to go to business school, and I ended up learning so much about business just through last year's experience.”

HOW THEY MET

CURRENTS

having our wedding reception there as well. The wedding

We had two weddings. We got married officially in Vancouver and had one reception that was quite small with 50 people. Then we had another huge reception Chinese-style in Toronto a month later with 200 people. The pups

We had three dogs together. Our first dog was Marcus, and he’s not with us anymore, and now we have Barney and Elvis. Balancing careers and marriage

Lainey Lui and her husband had their first kiss, proposal and wedding at the same hotel Lainey Lui is back on television screens this fall on the eighth season of The Social, where she’s a co-host, as well as her role as an anchor on etalk. The Torontonian is also known for her popular website LaineyGossip.com, which she runs with her husband Jacek Szenowicz. We caught up with her to find out how her and Jacek met. How they met

I was working as a corporate trainer in Toronto and I was sent from Toronto to the office in Vancouver to train the staff on a new program that the company had launched. Jacek was one of the supervisors in the class that I was teaching. He jokes that he was hot for teacher, and to be honest, I don’t really remember him. When I got back to Toronto, he sent me a message over the intercompany messaging service, and then we just started messaging back and forth. The first date

We messaged back and forth for a couple of weeks and progressed to phone calls at night for a few

weeks, and then we realized we were super into each other. So then he flew me back to Vancouver to hang out with him, and we fell in love, and so our first date was him flying me to Vancouver.

“We respect each other’s space and that definitely keeps us strong.”

The courtship

The first three months were long distance, and I ended up moving to Vancouver four months later.

Shared hobbies

We spend a lot of time with our dogs. All four of us go for walks several times a week, and right now, we are both super into the show Love Island. So every night at 9 p.m. we have this time together where we are just killing ourselves laughing over these people and their hilarious love antics. We also golf a lot. The home

We live in the Beaches and we moved here in 2013 because it most resembled where we lived in Vancouver. It’s by the water, it’s tree lined and it’s perfect for our dogs. Secret of success

The proposal

He proposed to me five months after that, and it was a total surprise. He took me to the site of our first kiss, which was outside the Pan-Pacific Hotel in downtown Vancouver, and he proposed there. We ended up

The reason why we’re compatible is that neither one of us needs a lot of face time together. We become stronger when we’re apart. We respect each other’s space, and that definitely keeps us strong.

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TV personality on finding love on the West Coast

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Jacek Szenowicz and Lainey Lui met in Vancouver

We are in business together. Jacek is the director of LaineyGossip.com, so we are business partners and life partners. Sometimes those lines are blurred, and we have to check ourselves to reestablish those boundaries. It’s definitely challenging to not let work become the thing that just inserts itself randomly in our non-work time. But we manage through practise and really communicating when we don’t want to talk about work. Tuesdays are the day we typically focus on work, so after the regular workday, he will come to me with an agenda of items we need to discuss. We’ll get all that done, so at dinner we don’t have to let those things seep into our personal lives.

T.O.’S TOP PROFESSIONALS DENTAL IMPLANTS ONE VISIT PORCELAIN CROWNS

Dr. Haley Frydrych, Dr. Edwin Lewandowski & Dr. Elvira (Ella) Mostyn

BIO Dr. Lewandowski is a graduate of New York University (NYU) College of Dentistry. He has worked as an instructor at the NYU Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry as well as in a hospital based dental clinic. Dr. Mostyn obtained her dental degree from The Faculty of Dentistry at James Cook University, Australia. Dr. Haley Frydrych received her dental degree from the University of Toronto.

What will school look like for your kids this year?

BACK TO SCHOOL...IN A PANDEMIC? Supporting Children and Parents in these Unprecedented Times

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For many of us, the global pandemic has brought new stressors and worries. With schools, extracurricular programs, and playgrounds shut down, children have experienced major change in their routines and social and family relationships. A recent study by Children’s Mental Health Ontario found that approximately one third of parents noticed a decline in their child’s mental health due to being home from school, and more than half of parents observed changes in their child’s behaviour (e.g. irritability, sadness). 28 Depending on a child’s age and circumstance,

parents must now decide whether to enrol their children for in-person schooling or transition them to online learning. Other parents are struggling to solve the logistical dilemmas that come with a hybrid model of in-person and online schooling. Parents are working to manage their own worries and those of their children, and to predict the unpredictable. Uncertainty is a common cause of anxiety, and can lead to feelings of powerlessness and a realization about our lack of control. Furthermore, the start of the school year can be a challenge for some children, even in the absence

• Do you wear dentures? Many people over the age of 65 use some form of removable denture. While the majority of dentures fit well, some always move, lift and cause discomfort. These people may choose not to wear them. This may lead to difficulty chewing and lack of confidence in social interactions. There is also a strong link between overall good health and proper oral care. • Dental implants can help. Dental implants can restore comfort and confidence and help people love their dentures again. A dental implant has two parts: a metal root that is secured to the jaw bone and an abutment. The abutment is a specifically-made part that will securely anchor your denture in place preventing movement. Implants are so versatile that they can replace a single tooth or a bridge, eliminate the need for a removable partial denture or even secure complete full-mouth dentures. Implants are safe and have a proven track record for long-term success. When using implants to replace a single tooth, neighbouring teeth do not need to be used as anchors for the replacement making it a very conservative choice in many cases. Dental implants do not require any special care other than routine dental visits. Age is not a factor in the success of dental implants. Most people in good

health are excellent candidates. • Do you have broken or missing teeth? One Visit Porcelain Crowns may be right for you. A full or partial crown is used to replace or strengthen a broken tooth. When a tooth is filled multiple times throughout a patient’s life, the critical tooth structure necessary for the tooth to be strong and function well may be lost. Many of these teeth break and require restoring. Options usually include very large fillings or crowns. Fillings fit inside the tooth and require original tooth structure to hold it all together. If part or all of the original tooth has been lost, then a full coverage crown may be a better option. There are many different materials and methods that may be used to make full coverage crowns. With digital technology, we can make a direct 3D image of the broken tooth from the patient’s mouth, design the new tooth (crown) on the computer chairside and have the new tooth made in the office. These crowns are beautiful, strong and functional and are permanently placed in the patient’s mouth in one visit. Amazing technology!

Thornhill Dental

CONTACT Dr. Edwin Lewandowski and Associates 1200 Centre St., Suite 101 Thornhill, ON

of a global pandemic. The anticipation of returning to school can worsen pre-existing issues, such as low mood, social anxiety, generalized worries, irritability, difficulty adjusting to change, academic and learning challenges, and other social and behavioural issues. This year, with children mandated to wear masks at school, those with sensory issues may experience greater difficulty as well. Parents might also experience some of these symptoms, or heightened stress and parental burnout as they seek to balance their roles as parents/caregivers, employees/employers, spouses, and friends. In light of the added stressors which may arise during this transitionary period, therapy can help parents and children navigate their mental health issues. The relationship between a client and therapist is a key factor in determining successful treatment outcomes. A positive and supportive therapeutic relationship is one of the most powerful agents for change. There are many different types of therapy that can be adapted to meet the individual needs of clients and various age groups, including children, adolescents, and parents. Contrary to some opinions, it isn’t always necessary to participate in years of therapy; significant change can often occur in relatively few sessions. For someone who has never seen a therapist, a psychological assessment may be a good place to start. An assessment can also be helpful for an individual with learning or attentional issues that are impacting their academic performance. Clinical interviews, psychological tests, and collateral information (e.g. from parents or teachers) are combined to formulate an opinion on

905-762-0122 www.thornhilldental.com

the symptoms or behaviours the client is experiencing. Psychological assessments can identify strengths and areas of weakness, highlight emotional or behavioural difficulties, and clarify an individual’s learning profile. It produces a roadmap for treatment and guides recommendations for academic accommodations. An assessment aims to help children, adolescents, and young adults thrive in their environment, and can open dialogue with teachers. If we cannot control our circumstances, we can work to optimize our reactions. Taking a proactive approach to mental health can mitigate some potentially negative effects of the return to school on your child’s mental health. Seeking professional help is one way to support your child’s and your own well-being through the transition back to school and beyond.

Cristina Magriñá, M.A., C.Psych.Assoc

Kindercare Psychology is a midtown Torontobased clinic that provides psychological services, including therapy and assessments to children, adolescents, adults, and parents.

Kindercare Psychology 505 Eglinton Avenue West, Suite 103 kindercarepediatrics.ca/psychology psychology@kindercare.ca 416-848-7665

T.O.’S TOP PROFESSIONALS BACK TO SCHOOL: VIRTUAL LEARNING AND OUR KIDS’ EYES

Dr. Adriana Cotovio

BIO Dr. Adriana Cotovio graduated from the University of Waterloo School of Optometry. She is the lead Optometrist at the Eyes on Sheppard Vision and Learning Centre. She has completed specialized training in learning-related vision problems and concussion management through the Optometric Extension Program and the College of Optometrists in Vision Development.

Now that our children have returned to school, we are doing our best to prepare them for a successful academic year in an unfamiliar system. With social distancing and an extended summer break, kids’ screen time has increased astronomically. To some extent, children will also be engaging with their classmates and teachers through virtual platforms. The increasing amount of dependence we now have on our digital devices, in and out of a classroom setting, can impact our vision and visual comfort. “Digital Eye Strain” has become a term used loosely to describe generalized eye fatigue and strain caused by extended periods of screen use and blue light exposure. It is speculated that this blue light worsens eye strain and may disturb good sleep cycles. Blue-blocking lens coatings on prescription and non-prescription eyewear may reduce some visual fatigue symptoms. However, and more importantly, not all cases of eyestrain are a result of blue light exposure and the use of digital devices. When it comes to children and learning, optimal vision is more than just “20/20”. The effort a child must exert to attain and maintain clarity at this benchmark of “20/20” is most important.

Optometrists call this 'Functional Binocular Vision' and it involves accurate eye focusing, teaming and tracking. Any deficiency in these skills can cause strain, headaches, double vision, loss of place with reading and poor comprehension and memory. This can ultimately lead to frustration and avoidance of reading and writing altogether. Vision can also affect the success of other physical and academic therapies, like occupational therapy and reading remediation programs. Fortunately, binocular vision problems can be managed with a personalized program of therapeutic glasses, active visual therapy and rehabilitation. Make sure to schedule an appointment for your child with an Optometrist and inquire about an extensive binocular vision assessment.

CONTACT Eyes on Sheppard 90 Sheppard Ave. East, Suite 100A, Toronto

Tel: 416-733-4444 www.eyesonsheppard.com

WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEAVE MORE TO YOUR KIDS?

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BIO Involved in the financial industry since the late 1970s, Jaymie co-founded Independent Financial Concepts Group (IFCG) in 1995 and belongs to Top of the Table, which accepts fewer than 1% of financial planning professionals worldwide. A graduate of Western University, Madison joined IFCG in 2014. Together, they support clients with tax-advantaged wealth accumulation and preservation strategies.

amount of tax you will pay today and in the future. How does Joint Last to Die Life Insurance work? You acquire a life insurance policy on yours and your spouse’s life and you name your heirs as the beneficiary of the policy. This cash value accumulates on a tax-deferred basis within the policy, increasing the death benefit payable. When you both die, your beneficiary receives the proceeds of the policy; tax free. By taking advantage of this strategy, you and your spouse have moved personal investment dollars from a tax-exposed environment to a tax-sheltered environment, increasing the amount you give to your heirs when you die. The bottom line is, you have substantially increased the inheritance your children would receive by using this unique type of insurance as an alternative investment.

CONTACT Independent Financial Concepts Group www.ifcg.com

416-484-1011 | jbongard@ifcg.com 416-849-1341 | mbongard@ifcg.com

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Madison Bongard and Jaymie Bongard

We spend our working years to support our families and save for retirement. Some of us are fortunate enough to save more than we ever need, others just save enough to hopefully make it through the retirement years. Either way, if we could find a way to leave our kids or grandkids more, or something at all, we would all be excited about that possibility. If you want to leave a legacy to your children, or if you already have substantial wealth and want to leave a bigger legacy, you might want to consider Joint Last to Die Life Insurance. Your situation You have savings or extra income that you do not need for lifestyle purposes. You and your spouse invest the cash in GICs or other taxable investments and earmark these investments for your heirs. You want a financial planning strategy that will increase the funds available for your children when you and your spouse die without risk. An option to consider - Joint Last to Die Life Insurance This financial planning strategy uses your surplus cash to set up a Joint Last to Die Insurance policy. By replacing the taxable investments with a life insurance policy, you will increase the funds available to your heirs when you die and reduce the

DINING

the future of toronto

W H E R E W I L L W E E AT ? W H AT W I L L W E E AT ? W I L L D I N I N G O U T EV E R B E T H E S A M E ?

POST CITY AND ROTMAN ROUNDTABLE PANELLISTS CHEF VICTOR BARRY Piano Piano, Cafe Cancan CHEF HEMANT BHAGWANI GOA Indian Farm Kitchen, Popa, Amaya Restaurant, Egg Bird CHEF MASSIMO CAPRA Capra’s Kitchen CHEF AMANDA COHEN Dirt Candy NYC LISA KRAMER Professor of Finance at the University of Toronto

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NICKI LABORIE Bar Reyna, Reyna on King

CHEF DAVID LEE Planta Restaurants CHEF ROGER MOOKING Twist by Roger Mooking CHEF IVANA RACA Ufficio CHEF NUIT REGULAR Pai, Sabai Sabai, Kiin, By Nuit

In our first Post City Restaurant Roundtable in partnership with the Rotman School of Management, we sit down with 10 dining industry veterans from Toronto and New York to talk about how the pandemic has impacted restaurants, what’s trending with food lovers now, and what the future of dining out might look like.

POST: How has the pandemic changed the way we eat? What types of food are diners ordering right now? HEMANT BHAGWANI: Everybody wants to

sit at home and enjoy their alcohol. They don't want to come out. People need comfort food, like Indian or Thai or pizza. That's what’s selling. NUIT REGULAR: PPeople want comfort food right now because we are in such weird times and the pandemic is something that's unpredictable. Comfort food is also something that’s not so expensive. A lot of people have to worry about their finances right now. We did a pop-up at Kiin, because it's a fine dining restaurant, and there’s no way that we can open fine dining at this point. I just decided to do something fun with the pop-up. We do a sandwich, we do a burger. That's something that we would never sell at Pai or

any other restaurant of ours. It’s just some comfort food with a Thai tweak on it. With all the sad times, I just feel like bringing some colour, bringing some fun and bringing some joy to the industry. I’m also finding people like to cook more at home. Meal kits are something we’ve never done before, and we did it at Pai. VICTOR BARRY: I think there’s a chemical

reaction that happens in your brain with comfort food. A lot of comfort food has white carbohydrates that light up your brain like a Christmas tree, and it gives you pleasure and instant gratification. Comfort food also stems a lot from your childhood and the nostalgia of being safe. Right now, I think it’s truly all about bringing back the feeling of being safe. That’s why I believe people are gravitating toward more comfort foods these days.

very low. There are no groups of people coming in and spending time at the table, drinking an extra bottle of wine or sitting around having a little cheese while they finish their wine. They just finish the meal, cap the wine and take it home. VICTOR: I would say our cheque

average is up a little bit. I’ve tried to figure out a reason as to why it is. The only thing I can come up with is maybe they’re going out a little bit less, and since they’re going out a little bit less, maybe they’re OK to spend a little bit more money while they are out. The gratuity percentage has been up. People have been happily leaving north of 20 per cent for gratuities.

ROGER MOOKING: The generosity of our customers has been just incredible. Tips are up significantly. The few staff that we have IVANA RACA: People are definitely ordering are greatly appreciative of it because they’ve a lot of pastas. They’re looking for comfort. just been on hiatus for so long. In a time Anything that’s going to make us feel like where people are really in need, they’re more it’s going to be OK at the end. generous than ever. That gives me hope for humanity. POST: What trends are you noticing in how diners are spending? MASSIMO CAPRA: My cheque average is

POST: We’ve been seeing a movement towards eliminating tipping. Do you think we’ll see more restaurants adopting this model?

MENTAL HEALTH CARE NOW

DOCTORS OF NORTH YORK GENERAL

RIGHT HERE IN YOUR COMMUNITY

THE FACTS

Mental illness is a leading cause of disability in Canada

Dr. David Koczerginski — Chief of Psychiatry and Medical Director of Mental Health

1 in 5 Canadians experience a mental illness or addiction problem in any given year

Can you elaborate on the nature and importance of inter-professional mental health care at North York General Hospital?

Approximately 1 in 5 children and youth in Ontario have a mental health challenge Death by suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death between 15 and 34 years of age

For more insights from our docs: NYGHFoundation.ca/MentalHealth

In all clinical areas, from working in the Emergency Department, inpatient units, our day hospital programs and our outpatient ambulatory programs with specialty focus on general adult, children and adolescents, and seniors’ mental health, all of them rely on interprofessional care. Psychiatrists are one aspect of the care, but our patients and families would not receive the robust evidenced-based care without the entire team. This includes social workers, nursing staff, child and youth workers, recreational therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, peer support workers, emergency physicians, and primary care physicians. They all bring varied skill sets with a different perspective which can be applied to individuals who are struggling with emotional and behavioural problems associated with mental illness. As psychiatrists, we could not do the work we do at North York General without the clinical involvement and very collegial team interactions with our professional colleagues from all disciplines.

Dr. Rohit Mohindra — Emergency Physician Dr. Stephanie Klein — Family Physician

As an emergency doctor during COVID-19, when do you suggest patients come into the Charlotte & Lewis Steinberg Emergency?

If someone is not coping well through these uncertain times and feel they are in crisis, what advice do you have?

I would advise visiting the Emergency Department (ED) at North York General for severe mental health issues. For example, if you (or someone you know) are having thoughts about hurting yourself or those around you. For physical symptoms, we encourage you to seek medical attention if you or a loved one are experiencing trouble breathing, pain in your chest (especially if it gets worse with exertion and better with rest), vomiting that doesn’t allow you to keep anything down, a fever that is not going away or anything that seems severe or worrisome.

I think the key is to know there are people out there who want to help and you’re not alone. This can be hard to remember when the suffering feels so severe. Your family doctor is there to support you during a crisis. Speaking with your family doctor will help you create a personalized plan to address what’s going on. Many times, having that first discussion and creating a plan, will help you feel better. Reaching out to trusted friends and family can also be valuable.

I’d emphasize that sometimes it’s hard to know what’s serious. Reach out to your primary care/family physician or call Telehealth (1-866-797-0000) or visit a walk-in clinic. They can help guide you and can suggest if an ED visit is needed. Finally, our Emergency Department is always here to help, 24/7. Our dedicated mental health crisis nursing team is one of our most valuable services and they can help quickly triage patients. Avoiding visiting the hospital for potentially serious issues can make it harder to treat these problems and may put your health at risk.

Dr. Leigh Solomon — Psychiatrist, Medical Director, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit What should we be aware of in terms of mental health issues in children and adolescents (particularly during this pandemic), and what resources are available at North York General Hospital? Some of the signs that would indicate that a child may be struggling include change in mood, worsening behaviour, sleep challenges, decreased appetite, increase in headaches or stomachaches, self-harm and difficulty functioning in the usual manner. If you’re concerned, I suggest initiating a conversation with the child in order to try to understand what they are feeling. If concerns persist for more than a couple of weeks, see the child’s physician who will then decide if a referral to a mental health professional is indicated. At North York General, we have inpatient, outpatient and day hospital mental health and eating disorder services for children and adolescents provided at the Leslie St. site and at Phillips House. During the pandemic outpatient and day hospital services have been mainly provided virtually but the plan is to gradually return to more in person appointments. The Emergency Department should be accessed if there is significant concern about a child’s safety or level of functioning.

There are helplines for support such as the North York Toronto Health Partners Mental Health and Addictions Access Point support line at 416-640-1934 open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday and Distress Centres of Toronto is available 24/7 at 416-408-HELP (4357). If you are in a mental health crisis I would suggest going to your nearest emergency department which can connect you to resources in an expedited way.

Dr. Jerome Perera — Psychiatrist What are the key issues people have been experiencing relative to their mental health during COVID-19, and what general advice do you have? Uncertainty about the future, isolation, and fatigue are some of the factors impacting mental health during COVID-19. I put together a website (mentalhealthcovid19.ca) which provides a comprehensive set of suggestions and resources that may be helpful. I encourage people to practice a relaxing or rejuvenating activity every single day. This helps to counter the effects of chronic stress and builds resilience. Examples include breathing exercises in the morning, regular physical activity, spending time in nature (even in the winter), and listening to affirmations before going to sleep. It’s essential to recharge in any way possible. Other strategies include visualization. Imagine a desired outcome and the steps that it would take to overcome a difficult situation (solution focused) as opposed to repeatedly thinking about how bad a situation might be (problem focused). Practice self-strengthening statements often (“I am able to navigate this, even if things get worse”).