January 2

Transit’s future in 2014 p.11

Serving HIGH PARK-SWANSEA, BLOOR WEST VILLAGE, THE JUNCTION and RONCESVALLES

thurs jan 2, 2014

www.thevillager.ca

INSIDE Residents weigh in on new year’s resolutions /3

®

HEALTH

A SUNSET SKATE

Hospital unveils tool to help with lung cancer detection

Villager staff spread cheer at St. Joe’s hospital / 6

LISA RAINFORD lrainford@insidetoronto.com OPINION The mayor is finally doing what he was elected to do / 14

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KEEP IN TOUCH @BWVillager www.facebook.com/ BloorWestVillager

MORE ONLINE

Staff photo/MARY GAUDET

Skaters take in the sunset at Dufferin Grove Park rink, open each day until 9 p.m., and one of six City of Toronto rinks in the Bloor West area. Visit bit.ly/Kh0mhU for more information.

New home was family’s best gift Habitat for Humanity delivered a new life to mother and son by building their home

insidetoronto.com

REBECCA FIELD contactus@insidetoronto.com Ten-year-old Bryan Sinato has every TTC subway station memorized, but Dundas West is his favourite. It’s near this station that he lives with his mom,

To resolutions that last …

Lorena, and his stepfather, Gord March.

Bryan’s room has two great big skylights that let in tons of light, and the park next door has a swing that’s just for him.

Life has its challenges for Bryan and Lorena. But it’s

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thanks to Habitat for Humanity the mother and son just celebrated their second Christmas in their home at 96 Ritchie St. The home was built on land donated by Loblaws to accommodate Bryan’s cerebral palsy >>>FORMER, page 6

Doctors at St. Joseph’s Health Centre are now able to pin-point the exact stage of a patient’s lung cancer and if and where the disease has spread – without surgery.

The hospital has been able to help as many as 30 patients with the new diagnostic tool, called an Endo-Bronchial Ultrasound or “EBUS,” since it arrived in November. Physicians can provide their patients with the answers they need more quickly so they can begin treatment sooner without the need for surgery, according to Dr. Chris Compeau, chief of surgery at St. Joseph’s Health Centre.

“The sad part is, lung cancer is the number one killer for men and women in Canada,” said the doctor. “This tool helps us determine which patients are best served by surgery or treatment of chemotherapy or radiation.”

The technology has been available for about six years, Compeau said. Other centres in Toronto provide this technology. >>>TOOL, page 12

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THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014 |

2

arts & entertainment

Theatrix School of Makeup seeks to transform

Workshops offered in airbrushing, special effects LISA RAINFORD lrainford@insidetoronto.com

Its slogan is ‘Imagine transformation’ and this reporter was provided the opportunity to experience the true meaning of those words as the COO of the Theatrix School of Makeup demonstrated just how powerful a little – or a lot – of powder, lipstick, blush and mascara can be.

Arriving at the one-time hay loft for the Eaton’s Stables on the second floor of Geary Avenue in the Dupont and Dufferin streets-area, the makeup school is spacious and bright with several mirrors covering each wall.

COO Alicia Milovanovic, a makeup artist and hair stylist who has also worked on film sets, explained that the school, which opened last January is the ideal place for people who are new to the industry and those who have already taken courses elsewhere who want to refresh or sharpen their skills.

“We don’t offer a diploma program (but) you’re here for six days max, but you’re getting the skills you need,” she said.

The school offers concentrated certificate workshops created to fit any level of experience in makeup.

With a high quality curriculum, courses run from $300 to $800 and are suited to students seeking an

Staff photo/MARY GAUDET

Villager reporter Lisa Rainford provides a canvas for Alicia Milovanovic of the Theatrix School of Makeup. The Geary Avenue school provides lessons in a wide range of makeup styles, including wedding wear and special effects.

intimate learning environment with skilled, experienced educators. The workshops include, beauty and fashion, HD television and film, theatre and stage, prosthetics, hairstyling, organic skin care, portfolio development and makeup artist and set etiquette.

Milovanovic, a graduate of Seneca College’s Cosmetic Techniques and Management program, came upon the Theatrix School of Makeup through applying for an internship at its sister company, the Theatrix

Costume House, located next door.

In 2011, the veteran costume company was purchased by Gina Anki, founder of the Children’s Arts Theatre School (CATS) and CATS Mainstage Theatre Company Anki’s mission is to create “the theatrical experience for each and every actor, artist and person who wishes to experience the magic and splendor of the performing arts.”

Anki saw the space and wanted to create something that would complement the costume company.

The Theatrix Costume House was situated downtown Toronto until 2009 when it moved to the lowrise white brick building across from Bartlett Park. Rich in history, the building once served as the junction for rigging horses and floats used in the Santa Claus Parade as far back as the early 1920s. It was reinvented for the costume company and now the Theatrix School of Makeup whose 3,000 square foot space is also rented out for art exhibitions, corporate functions, theatre and dance rehears-

als or private parties.

“We’re trying to make ourselves known nationwide,” Milovanovic said.

A whole slew of new workshops and courses begin in the new year.

Beauty and fashion, bridal makeup, airbrushing, special effects, organic skin and zombie effects workshops start Jan. 13.

“Our main focus here is to build your skills. We have more advance classes. We also offer classes for etiquette, how to market yourself,” Milovanovic said. “We’re trying to market ourselves to hair salons so they can do both makeup and hair (without having to hire an outside makeup artist).”

Milovanovic says having a steady hand is most challenging for her.

Marketing oneself can also be difficult.

The Theatrix School of Makeup helps its students build their portfolio by pairing them up with a photographer, who will take a photograph of a particular look they’re trying to achieve. They are also provided racks of clothing to achieve this look.

Workshops are offered days, evenings and weekends, seven days a week.

“We keep in mind that people are still working while going to school,” said Milovanovic.

There is always a need for makeup artists and experts, said Milovanovic, no matter what the economic picture is because people want to look good whether for themselves or because society requires them to.

i

To learn more about Theatrix School of Makeup, visit www.theatrixschoolofmakeup.com or email info. tsom@gmail.com

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Celebrate this Ukrainian Christmas with concert

3

To resolve, or not to resolve in 2014?

On a frigid winter afternoon, The Villager visited the Jane/Dundas library where we asked patrons their thoughts on new year’s resolutions, whether or not they make them or plan to make one this year.

By Lisa Rainford

The Levada and Orion Ukrainian Choirs Toronto under the direction of Ihor Maheha perform a musical celebration of Christmas by the Julian Calendar on Sunday, Jan. 12 at 3:30 p.m. at Humber Valley United Church, 76 Anglesey Blvd.

Special guests are Kir Stefan the Serb Choir, Kosa Kolektiv and Royal St. George’s College Boys’ Choir.

Admission $25 at the door.

Advance sales $20.

For tickets, call 416-239-1685 or 416-233-9700.

After-concert reception in Arthur Steed Hall.

“Not really,” confessed Michael Smith. “If I ever did them, I can’t remember.”

“I never make them. New year’s doesn’t inspire me that way. I never do it. I don’t see the value,” Jasmine Budak said.

I have none at the moment.

Typically, I’ll make them. They don’t last. They last about two weeks. Usually, it’s that I try to get to the gym three times a week,” Catherine Langevin said.

“No, not really. I just keep doing what I’m doing,” Carl N. said.

“I don’t make specific resolutions. I try to review the previous year and think about what I want to do,” Carole Truman said.

“I mean it this time, I’m seriously going to cut down on my drinking.

We decided we’re going to start acting our age,” said Bob Truman of he and his wife, Carol.

“I’m recently retired. I’ve decided I’m just going to stop. We live in such a fast-paced world. It’s not good for us. I’m just going to pause,” Catherine Lococo said.

“Intentions are a lot better than the action,” Larry Toner said.

File photo/IAN KELSO

Readings, author talks at Brockton Writers Series You’re invited to ring in the new year with the Brockton Writers Series, on Wednesday Jan. 8, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Full of Beans Coffee House and Roastery, 1348 Dundas St. W., with readings by Katie Boland, J.M. Frey, Michael Mirolla and Sherwin Tjia.

Author Cory Silverberg will begin the evening at 6:30 p.m. with a talk about crowd funding and how writers can put it to use. Find out how he used Kickstarter to launch his book, What Makes a Baby.

For further details, visit www. kickstarter.com/blog/featuredcreator-cory-silverberg-on-whatmakes-a-b Readings begin at 7:05 p.m.

This is a pay-what-you-can event (suggested $3 to $5).

There will be a question and answer period, as well as books and treats, which will be available for sale.

The venue is wheelchair accessible, however, the washroom facilities are not.

Pelham Park improvements get cash infusion A new and improved Pelham Park playground will open in June of next year, thanks in part to a $25,000 investment by Delta Bingo and its 76 Charities, Davenport Councillor Cesar Palacio announced at a recent public meeting.

The councillor hosted the late December meeting to discuss the proposed physical improvements to the Davenport and Old Weston roads-area park, including the addition of public art.

“We have a very dynamic, diverse community with hundreds of families that need more green space, a good playground with amenities for

our kids and youth,” Palacio said.

The councillor has been working with local residents for the past couple of years to build a new, state of the art playground, which is scheduled for construction in June or July.

“I’m confident with the generosity of Delta Bingo and its 76 Charities, with the help of (the City of Toronto) Parks and Recreation (department) and with your help – this is going to be done,” he said.

– Lisa Rainford

i

Contact the councillor about the plans at 416-392-7011 or email councillor_palacio@toronto.ca

Courtesy photo

Improvements to Pelham Park will be funded in part by a $25,000 investment by Delta Bingo.

| THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014

community

THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014 |

4

opinion

The Bloor West Villager is published every Thursday at 175 Gordon Baker Rd., Toronto, ON, M2H 0A2, by Metroland Media Toronto, a Division of Metroland Media Group Ltd.

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Wishing Toronto showcases its very best in 2014

Write us The Bloor West Villager welcomes letters of 400 words or less. All submissions must include name, address and a daytime telephone number for verification purposes. We reserve the right to edit, condense or reject letters. Copyright in letters remains with the author but the publisher and affiliates may freely reproduce them in print, electronic or other forms. Letters can be sent to letters@ insidetoronto.com, or mailed to The Bloor West Villager, 175 Gordon Baker Rd. Toronto, ON, M2H 0A2.

A

new year dawns on our city and many people are considering their goals for 2014. In the spirit of reflection and resolution, we think there are a few goals the City of Toronto and its citizens, as a collective, should work toward.

Let’s continue to be a place people want to live, work and play. Based on world ranking surveys in 2013, our city is already sitting comfortably at the top: we were named the most youthful city by the Youthful Cities index; the second most reputable city by the Reputation Institute; and second in the Overall North American Cities of the Future for business investment.

Maintaining that high standard requires ongoing commitment by our elected officials, our business and community leaders.

So here’s a wish for 2014: to see our view effective, accountable and digniWork together fied leadership from our mayor and city council. When we make to realize headlines internationally, it should for positive reasons that help opportunities be strengthen our reputation – not tarnish it. If the ill-conceived behaviour of any person proves a detriment to the effectiveness of this city, they need to answer for it.

We also hope 2014 is the year Toronto breaks out of its downward spiral on transit planning. No more flipflopping, cancelled plans, lost investment and wasted time. We need vital transit upgrades and a concrete commitment from all levels of government to find a way to pay for it.

Another wish: that this year Toronto gets an engaging municipal election – one where candidates focus on critical issues mentioned here, and one that gets residents invested in municipal affairs and gets them out to the polls.

Lastly, we hope to continue to see evidence of the goodwill of the people of Toronto. Whether it’s offering refuge from a power outage after an ice storm, police engaged in community building, or school children initiating charity drives for typhoon victims on the other side of the world – that spirit of compassion is our most defining feature.

There’s much to celebrate this year, with the World Cup set to spark excitement in our communities only possible in a city as diverse as ours, and the ongoing preparation for the Pan/Parapan Am Games in 2015.

This is our chance to showcase our city on the world stage – let’s work together and seize the opportunity.

column

Fearless predictions made for 2014 M

uch to my delight, I bumped into one of the world’s foremost psychics in the mall over the holidays, the incomparable Frederico Fearless. He was there promoting his best-selling new book, I’m Delighted To Say I Told you So. This guy is good, folks. He was a perfect 100 for 100 last year. What’s more, he was kind enough to give me a signed, laminated copy of his 100 predictions for 2014 and permitted me to reproduce this unsigned, un-laminated portion.

1. By the end of the year it will be possible to lose an argument to your phablet over which movie you should watch on it, after which the phablet will be able to put YOU on pause while it goes out to dinner and a show with another phablet.

7. Due to the escalating saturation and resultant inflation of social media, 15 minutes of fame will be officially reduced to 15 seconds of fame.

19. In 2013 as I predicted

jamie wayne BUT SERIOUSLY

there would be an app created for everything but the kitchen sink. In 2014, there will finally be an app for the kitchen sink, too.

25. While the relentless Twitterazzi will be dogging the Twitterati more than ever, the perplexed paparazzi will be obsessed with finding out why there’s no paparati to follow, seeing as how they’ve been around a heck of a lot longer.

38. The Country Music Song of the Year will include the following phrases: 1.

“Talking ’bout my pick-up truck.” 2. “A country road.” 3.

“A hot summer night.” 4. “A little whiskey.” 5. “And just you and me baby.” 6. “Oh, yeah.”

It will be titled, “Talking ’Bout My Pick-Up Truck, A Country Road, A Hot Summer Night, A Little Whiskey And Just You And Me, Baby. Oh Yeah.”

46. William Shatner will shoot down industry rumours there is going to be a sequel

to Star Trek 247. The former Captain Kirk will instead gleefully announce that there is, in fact, going be a triloquel to 247, taking the popular Star Trek franchise all the way to an even 250. But who’s counting, right?

55. Every Tuesday at that well-known restaurant chain, The One With The Three-Letter Acronym, somebody in line waiting to be served will ask the person standing next to them why it’s called Toonie Tuesday when the special of the day costs more than a Threenie.

62. Er Shun, the Toronto Zoo’s female giant panda, will have a molar pop out after munching on some bamboo, leave it under her pillow and be visited by the Tooth Fairy.

Ironically, the Tooth Fairy will trip over a pile of bamboo while delivering Er Shun her cash and dislodge an incisor in the process, only to discover, alas, that there is no Tooth Fairy for Tooth Fairies. The story will have a happy ending, however, as Da Mao, the zoo’s male giant panda, will give

the Tooth Fairy gift cards and points cards from BambooR-Us and Bamboorama.

78. The top-selling fastfood item will be inspired by the recently released second Hobbit movie, the Desolation of Smaug. It will be called the Benedict Cucumberbatch – and you can take it home in a recyclable Bilbo Baggins.

87. Miley Cyrus will sing a song on a music awards show in which she is fully clothed and not exhibiting any suggestive behaviour. (Just kidding. I wanted to see if you were still paying attention.)

99. I will make my 2015 predictions and be a perfect 100 for 100, as usual.

100. Jamie will wrap this up by wishing all his readers a Happy New Year.

“Happy New Year, everyone.” Wow. I told you Fearless was good. I had no idea I was going to end it that way.

Jamie Wayne is a lifelong columnist, who takes writing very seriously. The topics?

Not so much. His column appears every Thursday. Contact him at jamie.wayne@sympatico.ca

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newsroom ph: 416-493-4400 fax: 416-774-2070 | circulation ph: 416-493-4400 fax: 416-675-3470 | distribution ph: 416-493-4400 fax: 416-675-3066 | display advertising ph: 416-493-4400 fax: 416-774-2067 | classifieds ph: 416-798-7284 | administration ph: 416-493-4400

Make an appointment to donate blood

thevillager.ca

food

The Swansea Town Hall, 95 Lavinia Ave., hosts a blood donor clinic on Saturday, Jan. 11 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Rousseau Room, main floor.

Participants are asked to bring their donor card or ID card. Call 416-974-9900 or visit www.bloodservices.ca

Gluten-free brie bites And other brunch recipes to enjoy

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bit.ly/13667r9

pets

your child for summer camp wRegister

Find a summer camp for your child.

The Swansea Town Hall, 95 Lavinia Ave., hosts a summer camp fair Sunday, Jan. 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. in its Rousseau Room.

Meet with directors from many of Ontario’s finest children’s camps.

Bring the family and find the right summer camp for you. It’s free.

Call 416-482-0782.

Talking about spiders

File photo/nancy paiva

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Doug Adlam talks to his daughter Vanessa Adlam while donating blood at Swansea Town Hall.

email info@artworksartschool. com or visit www.artworkartsschool.com for details.

up for a winter art to your councillor class with art works about budget issues wSign wtalk Art Works Art School, 238 Jane St., is now registering for its winter 2014 calendar.

Classes start the week of Jan. 14.

Art Works Art School offers classes for all ages. Call 416-766-0662 or

Jumping spiders can leap 20 times their body length

Councillors vote to adopt the City of Toronto 2014 budget at the end of January. If you have thoughts on the closing of the Runnymede fire hall or would like to see operational funding

for the High Park Zoo returned to the city’s budget, Parkdale-High Park Councillor Sarah Doucette would like to hear from you. Call 416-392-4072 or email councillor_doucette@toronto.ca

food

Dundas Library, 620 Jane St., on Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 6:15 p.m.

The film is the true-life adventure of Rob Stewart, the follow-up to his Sharkwater documentary.

Food of Cambodia Tom Yum soup and other authentic dishes at Khmer Thai

adventure film Revolution with Green 13 wWatch i Green 13, the local environmental advocacy group screens the film Revolution at the Jane/

bit.ly/11RqEwP

If you have a public event worth noting, enter it into our online calendar and it could appear in the paper. Go to insidetoronto.com (click Sign up to enter your event)

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bit.ly/17kBKvQ

Social Media

www.facebook.com/ BloorWestVillager

@BWVillager

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| THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014

BLOOR WEST in brief

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THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014 |

6

community

Spreading cheer

Staff from Metroland Media Toronto handed out toy bears to children at St. Joseph’s Health Centre during the holidays. Here is little Gavin (centre) who received a bear from Charlene Thompson (Villager sales rep), her children Mason and Madison and Serena Tung, (Villager sales rep).

Staff photo/IAN KELSO

Former neighbourhood was riddled with crime >>>from page 1 and autism in a location that is near Lorena’s job as an RBC mortgage broker’s assistant and the hospitals downtown.

The house is fully equipped with an accessible bathroom, big windows to help Bryan – who is also legally blind with only light perception – to see.

It used to be, in their previous co-op apartment, that Lorena would have to carry him down six flights of stairs while he experienced seizures because the elevator would break repeatedly.

And before, she used to check to make sure that there were no cockroaches on him while he slept.

“The building was terrible with a lot of single moms and a lot of drug dealers,” Lorena said, adding that she used to wake up in the middle of the night to hear police running through the apartment.

“I’m like, please God just a few more days and it’s going to be over,” said Lorena remembering her King Street and Shaw Avenue area apartment.

Lorena moved to Toronto from Brazil in 2002 and soon after was pregnant with Bryan.

Born early at 27 weeks, Bryan suffered a brain infection while in the hospital, causing brain damage according

to Lorena.

She lived in the co-op for seven years before her application to Habitat was accepted in 2012. She applied on the recommendation of other people she knew who had received homes through Habitat.

“When I applied for Habitat I was waiting for two years.

I said I’m going to need to move from here – I just can’t,” Lorena said. The house only took three months to build with 15 volunteers showing up every day.

Lorena herself had to contribute 500 sweat equity hours in order to receive a home which she did by volunteering at the Habitat for Humanity Restore every Saturday for four to six hours.

Neighbours on Ritchie Street came and volunteered for a day to welcome the Sinatos to the neighbourhood, and some of Lorena’s co-workers volunteered to help her finish her hours faster.

“It was harder because I had only the weekend, and I needed a nurse for Bryan to do my hours,” Lorena said.

While working Saturdays on the site of her own home, she met volunteer Gord March. The two have since married.

“Still every time we have the opportunity to volunteer, we do,” Lorena said.

Lorena and March are now married, and Bryan has gotten used to having him around.

The boy reacts with excitement when his stepfather comes home. “ When the architect designed everything, they knew about Bryan’s need,” said Lorena whose bedroom is on the main floor beside Bryan’s so she can check up on him throughout the night.

Joanna Dwyer, marketing and communications director with Habitat for Humanity, said they were fortunate to secure the property.

“Habitat was lucky to have an amazing partnership with Loblaws who donated a piece of land to use that would not have otherwise been affordable,” she said and emphasized the importance of volunteers and donations to the organization.

“It’s certainly not affordable for us to build a single, detached, fully accessible home for this family, this close to the downtown region of the city – close to hospitals and close to her son’s doctors.”

Lorena is paying a mortgage on the house which will go directly into the building of other Habitat homes.

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Visit www.torontohabitat.ca for more information on the homes and how you can help the cause.

Staff photo/NICK PERRY

Gord March, left, Brian Sinato and mom Lorena celebrate the holidays at their home.

7

bloor west happening in

this week

looking ahead

w Friday, Jan. 3

w Sunday, Jan. 19

Community Pub Night - Lambton House WHEN: 6 p.m. WHERE: Lambton House, 4066 Old Dundas St. CONTACT: www.lambtonhouse.org/ Events.html, postmaster@lambtonhouse.org COST: Free The Howland and Humber rooms are transformed into an informal setting for the pub night. Refreshments, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are available at reasonable prices.

Complimentary snacks are provided until the band starts playing. Hot roast beef sandwiches are available for purchase. Music provided by local musicians.

w Sunday, Jan. 5

High Park Hiders and Hibernators WHEN: 10:30 a.m. to noon WHERE: High Park, 1873 Bloor St. W. CONTACT: ajalberti@gmail.com COST: Free Pat Parent shows how plants, animals, birds and insects survive the winter. Dress appropriately for cold weather conditions. Meet at the benches across from the Grenadier Restaurant.

Sunday Service and Pot Luck Supper WHEN: 4:30 p.m. WHERE: St. Chad’s Anglican Church (High Park), 260 High Park Ave. CONTACT: 416-889-8248, info@stchads.ca COST: Free Sunday church service, contemporary music, followed by a pot luck supper.

w Tuesday, Jan. 7

Junction Seniors Gathering WHEN: 10 to 11 a.m. WHERE: Agora Cafe, 3015 Dundas St. W CONTACT: Eleanor Batchelder, 647-235-0843, www.junctionra.ca/junction-seniors/, eob62@yahoo.com COST: Free The group meets twice a week at a local coffee shop for conversation.

Tuesdays at the above location, Friday afternoons 2 to 3 p.m., Pascal’s, 2904 Dundas St. W.

w Wednesday, Jan. 8

Mommy & Baby Free Indoor Play WHEN: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. WHERE: Kidz360, 3431 Dundas St. W. Suite 200 CONTACT: Shannon, 647-3519360, tmr@pinkbear.ca COST: Free Free indoor play space for the community every Wednesday morning. A team of Early Childhood Educators will have different activities set up

each week.

w Thursday, Jan. 9

Business Network International (BNI) High Park WHEN: 7 to 9 a.m. WHERE: Dr. Generosity, 2197 Bloor St. W. CONTACT: Jacqui Synder, 647-404-9380, info@ adventourus.com COST: Breakfast $20 BNI High Park is a sales team of business owners based in Bloor West, serving the Greater Toronto Area. The group meets once a week to network and help build each other’s business through referral marketing.

Drop Everything and Sing WHEN: 10 to 11 a.m. WHERE: High Park Avenue at Humberside, 193 High Park Ave. CONTACT: Judith Butler, 647-343-8412, highparksingalong@gmail.com COST: $2

suggested donation Neighbourhood sing-alongs led by retired music teacher. No experience or long-term commitment. Register a day ahead.

org COST: First night free.

Alpha looks at the big questions of life and explores the basics of the Christian faith in a friendly, informal, honest environment.

Junction Residents Association WHEN: 7 to 9 p.m. WHERE: West Toronto Baptist Church, 3049 Dundas St. W. CONTACT: Eleanor Batchelder, 647-235-0843, junctionra.ca, info@ junctionra.ca COST: Free The Junction Residents Association holds its bimonthly public meeting.

West Bend Community Association WHEN: 7 to 9 p.m. WHERE: Indian Road Crescent Public School, 285 Indian Road Cress CONTACT: 647478-8457, info@thewestbend.ca COST: Free West Bend Community Association monthly residents meeting.

w Friday, Jan. 10

Constituency Hours WHEN: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. WHERE: Swansea Town Hall, 95 Lavinia Ave. CONTACT: Irmgard, 416-392-4072, councillor_doucette@toronto.ca COST: Free Ward 13 city Councillor Sarah Doucette holds constituency hours regularly to meet with constituents in person. Appointment is required.

w Wednesday, Jan.15

God at the Pub: The Alpha Course WHEN: 6:30 to 9 p.m. WHERE: Yellow Griffin Pub, 2202 Bloor St. W. CONTACT: Linda Ruth Ciglen, 416767-1401, info@runnymedechurch.

w Thursday, Jan.16

French Immersion Parent Information Evening WHEN: 7 p.m. to WHERE: James Culnan Catholic School, 605 Willard Avenue CONTACT: James Culnan Catholic School, 416-393-5325 French Immersion parent information night.

get listed!

The Bloor West Villager wants your community listings. Sign up online at thevillager.ca com to submit your events (click the Sign Up link in the top right corner of the page).

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98%

| THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014

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THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014 |

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| THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014

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THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014 |

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SEEKING NEW BOARD MEMBERS The Swansea Town Hall is the former Village of Swansea Municipal building owned and funded by the City of Toronto. It is managed by a Board of Management appointed by the City of Toronto from the community. The Town Hall is a community resource providing a broad range of community and recreation programs for the benefit of the Swansea catchment area and the greater Toronto community.

We are currently seeking persons to fill vacant positions on the Board of Management of the Swansea Town Hall Community Centre and Director positions on the Board of Directors of the Swansea Town Hall Association.

We are seeking applicants who: • Have an understanding of and commitment to the neighbourhood and community within the Swansea catchment area; • Reflect the cultural and social diversity of the community; • Have knowledge and understanding of community and public service; • Are team players who possess good communication and decision making skills and • While not a requirement, we are looking to add persons with marketing and/or fundraising knowledge.

An application form and information package is available for pickup after January 7th at: Swansea Town Hall 95 Lavinia Avenue Toronto, ON M6S 3H9 Phone (416) 392‐1954 Email: frontdesk@swanseatownhall.ca • Website: www.swanseatownhall.ca Please submit your applications to the attention of the Nominating Committee, Swansea Town Hall, at the above address. The deadline for submission of applications is Tuesday, January 28th, 2014.

transit

New year brings transit fare hikes Tis the season for transit fare hikes.

As of New Year’s Day, TTC riders were faced with another price increase, as the cash-strapped transit agency struggles to cover its 2014 operating budget.

Hardest hit are Metropass holders who will now pay $5.25 more per month in 2014. A five cent increase was also approved per token or ticket. With the fare hike, the TTC projects it will raise around eight million dollars, which still won’t be enough to balance the budget. bids for Eglinton LRT wContract

Metrolinx announced in December a pair of consortia pre-selected to bid on construction contracts for the Eglinton Crosstown LRT. Some 30 companies make up Crosslinx Transit Solutions and Crosstown Transit Partners, including heavyweights like EllisDon and Aecon, which will have the opportunity to bid on over $2 billion worth of construction

rahul gupta TO in TRANSIT contracts, everything from station design work to signal and communications system installations. Also available for bids are maintenance contracts to take effect following the Crosstown’s scheduled launch in 2020. buses back on the street wArticulated

Elongated TTC buses are back on city streets following a relaunch of the vehicles last month.

Articulated buses are characterized by a pivoting accordion joint separating passenger compartments, which increases capacity by 45 per cent compared to the regular fleet. The buses can hold a maximum of 112 riders, seating 77.

On Dec. 19 the TTC officially launched the first of 15 Nova-manufactured “artics” along the 7 Bathurst route, which will be deployed mainly

during peak travel periods. In 2014, the buses will be added to the 29 Dufferin, 36 Finch West, 63 Ossington, 6 Bay, 85 Sheppard East and 53 Steeles Express routes. storm brought city to a halt wIce

December’s severe ice storm played havoc with transit operations across the city.

Both TTC and GO Transit riders experienced major delays as the transit agencies struggled with power issues caused by the storm.

At its height, service on all subway lines was affected as well as streetcar routes, plus the Scarborough RT. Several bus routes were also forced to cancel service or detour around areas where downed hydro wires or trees were reported. It wasn’t until midday on Christmas Eve – with the re-opening of the Sheppard subway – that service was fully restored.

Rahul Gupta is The Villager’s transit reporter. His column runs every Thursday. Reach him on Twitter: @TOinTRANSIT

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Funding the focus for transit advocates in 2014 Municipal, and possible provincial, election present an opportunity to pressure politicians RAHUL GUPTA rgupta@insidetoronto.com

T

he year 2013 did not go down in history as a particularly noteworthy one for transit in the City of Toronto.

There was some progress in improving transit, such as the introduction of articulated buses, completed subway station renovations as well as an emphasis on better customer service by the TTC. Meanwhile, Metrolinx introduced all-day trips on GO train lines and proceeded on extensive renovation work at Union Station.

Real progress was also made in June of 2013 on the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, with tunnel excavations commencing far below Eglinton Avenue. Also, in the fall Toronto council voted to extend the Bloor-Danforth subway line to Sheppard Avenue and McCowan Road in Scarborough, to ultimately replace the aging Scarborough RT. By-and-large, however, transit in 2013 was characterized by the endless bickering between politicians about funding, subways, LRTs and revenue tools, even as record levels of transit riders dealt with higher levels of congestion, creakier service, higher fares and plenty of delays.

It’s too soon to say whether 2014 will be any different, but the likelihood of two elections, provincially

Staff file photo/RAHUL GUPTA

The TTC showed off one of its new articulating buses at its Hillcrest facility in October. The 60-foot vehicles will provide 45 per cent more capacity than the regular bus fleet. They began running along Bathurst Street last month.

and municipally, make for an obvious and useful coincidence for transit supporters seeking to drum up support for transit funding, such as TTC CEO Andy Byford.

“I’m hoping politicians will recognize we have to continue to expand the network, so I’m looking for a serious, mature debate that will lead to decent and adequate funding,” said Byford of his hopes for 2014.

In the new year, Byford will be part of a delegation of city officials

which includes mayoral candidate Karen Stintz set to travel to Queen’s Park and Ottawa in search of better transit funding.

He said the TTC couldn’t continue to function without better funding, with annual fare increases no longer acceptable to riders frustrated by higher prices and a declining level of service.

“We’ve got to be imaginative in the sources of funding, which is one of the reasons we’ve formed this task

force,” he said. “We are doing our damnedest to make the service more reliable, but there comes a point you have to invest.”

The Greater Toronto CivicAction Alliance will also call for better transit funding in 2014, said a spokesperson for the advocacy group.

Linda Weichel said CivicAction, which bills itself as a non-partisan regional organization, will resume efforts to convince elected officials to sign its pledge for better transit funding.

But as in the past, the group and its council of transportation “champions” will refrain from offering specific recommendations for funding or endorsements of pro-transit politicians.

“From day one, we created a council with a great variety of interests from business to labour to social service agencies,” said Weichel, a vice president with CivicAction who was responsible for leading the group’s Your32 transit awareness campaign.

“What everyone agreed on was we need investment.”

Weichel said CivicAction would focus more on getting residents to endorse the idea of better funding.

“The biggest obstacle is the question of trust,” she said.

“It’s very clear people want to see something done to deliver a better network and offer more trans-

portation choices, but it’s really a question of whether there’s trust in governments spending that money wisely. There is more work to be done there.”

According to Martin Collier, transportation issues will likely be front and centre in both the municipal elections (set for Oct. 27) and a possible provincial election, though historically that’s not often the case.

“It’s funny but transportation seems to be more of an issue between elections than on elections, that’s been my experience,” said Collier, director of Healthy Transport Consulting which organizes a series of seminars entitled Transport Futures. “But this year, it could be totally different.”

In the case of the provincial election, he said it would be up to the minority Liberal government to make the case for transit. But he thought the idea of paying more in taxes and fees could become a “wedge issue” and one provincial candidates would try to avoid during an election campaign.

He hopes future debates on what project to build next, and how to fund them, come from places of reason rather than emotion. “We do have to make sure we’re making the right choices based on facts and evidence,” he said.

i

Keep up-to-date on all things transit by following transit reporter Rahul Gupta on Twitter: @TOinTRANSIT

CONSUMER FEATURE

Keep pets safe during the holidays Keeping our pets safe over the winter holidays can be a challenge! Here are some common items which your pets should avoid during the winter and holiday season.

Silica Gel Packs: These are found in shoe boxes, medications and some foods and are used as moisture absorbents. Pets enjoy playing with them due to their small size and the crinkling noise they often make. Luckily, only a mild gastrointestinal upset is the usual outcome if your pet eats one of these packets, however ingestion of the intact packet can cause a serious intestinal obstruction.

Mistletoe: Ingestion of a few leaves or berries of American mistletoe can result in a mild stomach upset. If your pet eats a large volume of this plant, he or she may need treatment and cardiovascular monitoring.

Holly: This plant is best avoided by pets, as it can upset the stomach and cause your pet to be lethargic.

Lily: I cannot stress enough how toxic

these plants are to our feline friends. Easter lilies, tiger lilies, day lilies or any other member of the Lilium and Hemerocallis species of plants can cause sudden, irreversible and often fatal kidney failure.

Even the tiniest nibble of a leaf or lick of pollen can results in a serious toxicity. Best advice; if you have a cat, do not bring these plants into your home! If you think your cat has eaten even the smallest amount of this plant, take your cat to your regular veterinarian or nearest emergency clinic (if after hours or on the holidays), as time is of the essence.

Liquid Potpourri: Liquid potpourri can be harmful on contact and can result in serious injury to the mouth, skin or eyes of your pet. If ingested it can cause severe symptoms such as coma, seizures, weakness, twitching and difficulty breathing.

—Suzanne Lyons, DVM Bloor Animal Hospital 2387 Bloor St. West (near Jane St.)

blooranimalhospital.com 416-767-5817

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ua Wishing yo W HAPPY NE YEAR!

| THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014

transit

THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014 |

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Dr. Chris Compeau, chief of surgery (far right) at St. Joseph’s Health Centre, uses a new lung cancer diagnosis tool called an Endo-Bronchial Ultrasound.

Tool offers patients a less invasive procedure >>>from page 1 The EBUS has been in use for less than a month, Compeau said.

“It’s been a great exper ience for the surgical program and our thoracic team,” he said.

The first place that lung cancer will spread is usually the lymph nodes, the glandes in the central part of the chest. The EBUS machine

allows physicians to biopsy lymph nodes from within the airway using an ultrasound probe and needle, which means a less invasive procedure for the patient.

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Co m p e a u c re d i t s St .

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opinion

Ford stands front and centre during ice storm

S

ay one thing about Mayor Rob Ford’s work ethic: it seemed to have grown two sizes over the Christmas holidays.

When the power went out for a third of the city, leaving families freezing in the dark, there he was: front and centre.

It’s unclear whether the mayor did so out of a sense of civic duty or a fear that if he didn’t step up, Deputy Mayor Norm Kelly and councillors like public works and infrastructure committee chair Denzil MinnanWong might soak up all of the credit for helping out during the ice storm.

The fact that the mayor refused to declare a state of emergency, turning powers over to the deputy mayor and also perhaps increasing the amount of inter-governmental aid the city could expect, tends to support the latter interpretation.

But never mind that.

Despite having been stripped of his powers after having debased the office of mayor like none before him,

david nickle the city the mayor took to podiums and neighbourhoods with great zeal – inserting himself as the reassuring voice of the public service in calamitous times.

Doing so is a political calculus – if he is to stand a chance in the mayor’s race later this year, Ford must be seen to be doing something beyond brushing off reporters, dreaming of football and returning a handful of constituents’ phone calls.

And he must not be seen to be absent during public emergencies, particularly when his other duties and powers as mayor have been so effectively curtailed.

Now, it will take a lot of public emergencies over the next 10 months for Torontonians to forgive his appalling behaviour over the past couple of years.

This is the guy who admitted to smoking crack while in office, who consorts with

gang-members and alleged drug dealers, makes lewd remarks related to his wife to deny allegations of making even more lewd remarks about former employees.

As much as polls indicate that Ford’s base is remaining loyal, the majority of Torontonians are looking elsewhere.

And Ford risks giving the impression that his newly found municipal engagement is nothing but a cynical grab for photo-ops, as sincere as a death-bed conversion. Still, give him this: Ford is finally doing the job he was elected to do. On Sunday, he announced he’d be calling a special council meeting Jan. 10, to ask for provincial disaster relief assistance for those residents who spent all or part of the holidays dealing with the impact of the ice storm.

And whatever that does for his re-election chances, Ford seems to be doing the right thing now.

i

David Nickle is The Villager’s city hall reporter. His column appears every Thursday.

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416.757.0565 x61924 ▪ Toronto East (East of Hwy404/DVP) 416.754.4949 x61415 Toll-free Recruiting Line: 1-877-233-4045

OR APPLY IN PERSON: Call for our address and then come by to meet us!

LOCAL HOOKUPS BROWSE4FREE 1-888-628-6790 or #7878 Mobile HOT LOCAL CHAT 1-877-290-0553 Mobile: #5015 Find Your Favourite CALL NOW 1-866-732-0070 1-888-544-0199 18+

Real Estate Misc./Services CANCEL YOUR TIMESHARE. NO RISK program. STOP Mortgage & Maintenance Payments Today. 100% Money Back Guarantee. FREE Consultation. Call us NOW. We can Help!

1-888-356-5248

Birthday?

Call (416) Anniversary?

493-4400 Memoriam?

Let your community know with a personal message.

Call 1-800-743-3353

Building Equipment/ Materials STEEL BUILDINGS/METAL BUILDINGS UP TO 60% OFF! 30x40, 40x60, 50x80, 60x100, 80x100 sell for balance owed!

Call: 1-800-457-2206 www.crownsteel buildings.ca

General Help HELP WANTED! Make $1000 a week mailing brochures From Home!

Helping Home Workers since 2001!

Genuine Opportunity. NO experience required.

Start immediately! www.themailinghub.com

Domestic Help Available GOLDEN BROOM Cleaning Service. Homes, Apartments, Offices. After party clean-ups and renovations too.

Call 416-820-0555

Astrology/Psychics TRUE PSYCHICS For Answers, CALL NOW 24/7 Toll FREE 1-877-342-3032 Mobile: #4486 www.truepsychics.ca

Must be at least 21 years of age, have a valid A,B,C,D,E,F, or full G licence, and must be proficient in english

Adult Personals

fax: 905

853 1765

Adjustments: Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of your ad. Please check your ad on the first insertion. For multiple insertions of the same ad, credit will be made only for the first insertion. Credit given for errors in connection with production on ads is limited to the printed space involved. Cancellations must be made by 2 p.m. one business day prior to publication date. Cancellations must be made by telephone. Do not fax or e-mail cancellations.

Apartments & Flats for Rent

BROWNSLINE/ HORNER Big beautiful bachelor apartment in plaza. Bus stop. Clean, quiet. $650.

Includes parking. Mature person. Available immediately. 416-520-7723

Articles for Sale

HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best Price, Best Quality. All Shapes & Colors Available. Call 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/ newspaper HOT TUB (SPA) Covers Best Price, Best Quality.

All shapes & Colours Available.

Call

1-800-743-3353

C a l l 1-866-652-6837. w w w. t h e c o v e r guy.com/sale

Home Renovations

Handy Person

BUILDER/ GENERAL CONTRACTORS RESIDENTIAL/ COMMERCIAL. Finished basements.

Painting.

Bathrooms.

Ceramic tiles. Flat roofs. Leaking basements. Brick/chimney repairs. House additions 905-764-6667, 416-823-5120

HOME RENOVATIONS & Repairs. From backyard clean-ups to trash removal, all your home needs and repairs. Call John: 647-467-9976, 416-906-5601

CEILINGS repaired.

Spray textures, plaster designs, stucco, drywall, paint. We fix them all! www.mrstucco.ca 416-242-8863

Waste Removal PETER’S DEPENDABLE JUNK REMOVAL From home or business, including furniture/ appliances, construction waste.

Quick & careful!

Flooring & Carpeting HARDWOOD FLOOR sanding. Specializing in stain/ refinishing. Call for Free Estimate! Reasonable rates.

Paul 416-330-1340 pager.

NESO FLOORING Carpet installation starting from $1.19/ sq.ft.

Hardwood, laminate at low prices.

27 yrs experience.

Free Estimates.

Best Price!

647-400-8198

Tree/Stump Service

Plumbing

LUMBER-JACK’S Tree Service, Since 1980.

Hedge trimming, tree pruning, tree/ stump removal.

Free estimates.

Fully insured. Call Jack (416)762-2400 www. treeservicetoronto.com

EMERGENCY?

Appliance Repairs/ Installation

416-677-3818 Rock Bottom Rates!

Clogged drain, camera inspection Leaky pipes Reasonable price, 25 years experience Licensed/ Insured credit card accepted Free estimate James Chen 647-519-9506

Professional Repairs of all brands of: Refrigeration, Stoves, Dishwashers, Washers, Dryers, Air Conditioning, & Heating.

Free Estimates.

Warranty, Credit cards accepted.

Seniors discount.

416-616-0388

HOME IMPROVEMENT Directory CHIMNEYS

Bricks & Chimneys Repaired and rebuilt Bricks + mortar colour match House-front, pillars, bricks repaired or replaced

Tuckpointing Chris Jemmett Masonry 416-686-8095

ELECTRICAL

CROATIAN ELECTRIC

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

(416) 234-9006

(DAVID) M.J. Yelavich & Sons, Etobicoke, Ontario

24 HOUR SERVICE Metro Licence #: 7000356

ALL TECH ELECTRIC Contact: Jason Sa

ELECTRICAL

Burton Electric Inc. 416 419-1772

Knob and tube replacement LED Lighting Aluminum wire reconditioning Permits and inspections

Pot lights Service upgrades Breakers/Panels FREE ESTIMATES

Master Electrician * License # 7001220 * Insured www.burtonelectric.ca mark.burton@burtonelectric.ca

PLUMBING

BaySprings Plumbing Ltd. SERVICING ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS HOLIDAY SPECIAL

$

25OFF

WITH THIS AD

EXTENDED UNTIL JANUARY 31ST

10% SENIORS DISCOUNT

416-427-0955 Metro Lic. #P20212 - Fully Insured

FREE ESTIMATES

24/7 No Extra Charges for Evenings, Weekends or Holidays

Master Electrician

(416) 723-1169

Specializing in removal of Knob & Tube & Electrical upgrades.

ECRA/ESA Lic.#7006706

Want to get your business noticed?

Call 1-800-743-3353 to plan your advertising campaign today!

| THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014

175 Gordon Baker Road, Toronto, Ontario M2H 0A2 www.insidetoronto.com | Circulation: 416 493 4400

THE VILLAGER | Thursday, January 2, 2014 |

16

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7 TH, 2014

Offers in effect Thursday, January 2nd to Wednesday, January 8th, 2014

SENIORS’ DISCOUNT DAY SAVE 15% OFF Customers 55 and older

FASHIONS AND FOOTWEAR FOR THE FAMILY AND ALL FURNITURE ID MAY BE REQUIRED

ALL MAJOR APPLIANCES

20 40

Unless otherwise stated, while quantities last Sale priced merchandise may not be exactly as illustrated

OUR ENTIRE SELECTION OF UPHOLSTERED, WOODEN AND LEATHER FURNITURE

60 80 SAVE

SAVE

%- %

%- %

OFF

OFF

Sears Original Prices

Sears Outlet Prices

Includes Boxed Appliances

TOY BLOWOUT CONTINUES!!

JANUARYT BLOWOU

GREAT SELECTION OF MATTRESSES

SAVE UP TO

75

%

OFF

Sears Original Prices

(Prices as marked) Some items may be reconditioned or refurbished

(Prices as marked)

JUST ARRIVED!!

ONE DAY ONLY! SATURDAY, JANUARY 4 , 2014

HUGE SELECTION OF HOUSEWARES

SAVE AN ADDITIONAL

30% OFF

TH

ALL FRIDGES AND RANGES

OFF

OUR ALREADY 50-70% REDUCED SEARS ORIGINAL PRICES

70

SAV UP TO

%

Sears Original Prices (Prices as marked)

30 SAVE

%

OFF

Sears Outlet Prices Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Sale prices in effect Thursday, January 2nd to Wednesday, January 8th, 2014 unless otherwise stated, while quantities last. Offers do not apply to purchases made prior to January 2nd, 2014. All items have been priced for final sale. Ask for details.

STORE HOURS MON - FRI 10AM-9PM SAT. JAN. 4TH 9AM-6PM

Sears Catalogue shopping

SUN, JAN. 5TH 11AM-6PM Personal shopping only. Savings offers do not include Parts & Service or Sundry Merchandise, Items with #195XXX & Sears ‘Value’ Programs with prices ending in .97. All merchandise sold “as is” and all sales final. No exchanges, returns or adjustments on previously purchased merchandise; savings offers cannot be combined. No dealers; we reserve the right to limit quantities. Prices do not include home delivery. Although we strive for accuracy, unintentional errors may occur. We reserve the right to correct any error. ‘Reg.’, ‘Was’ and ‘Sears selling price’ refer to the Sears Catalogue or Retail store price current at time of merchandise receipt. Offers valid at Sears Rexdale Outlet Store. ©2014 Sears Canada Inc. †Sears Financial™ MasterCard®, Sears Financial™ Voyage™ MasterCard® or Sears Card offers are on approved credit.

Sears® and VoyageTM are a registered Trademarks of Sears, licensed for use in Canada. ®/ TM - MasterCard and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated Sale priced merchandise may not be exactly as illustrated

SO. HOW ARE WE DOING?

Share your Sears shopping experience with us, and you could win a $500 GIFT CARD. Visit searsexperience.ca

Call in to hear our Specials on our ad line at 416-401-4545 or 1-866-516-4500 press “1”