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Baby Joshua makes 2013 debut

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First baby at North York General arrives minutes after midnight HILARY CATON hcaton@insidetoronto.com

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As Torontonians rang in the new year at parties across the city, Gary and Hitomi from the Yonge and Sheppard area were anxiously awaiting the arrival of their first child.

According to North York General Hospital, Joshua weighed exactly six pounds and was born just four minutes past the stroke of midnight, making him the hospital’s first baby of 2013 and the first baby born in North York.

“Our due date was expected to be January first,” said Gary. “But there was a lot of speculation about what time he would come between my friends and colleagues and if he’d be one of the first babies of 2013.”

According to Gary, his wife was in labour for about 16 hours with the first push at 9 p.m.

“Ever ything went pretty smoothly,” said Gary. “Once the baby was born it was all very surreal. I’ve never actually seen a new life being created right in front my eyes.” >>>FIRST-TIME, page 10

Staff photo/NICK PERRY

stroll through the snow: Kelly and Natalie Perrin walk their dog, Tucker, at Havenbrook Park last Thursday morning following the first major snow storm of the winter in Toronto. See more snowy photos on page 15.

North York MPPs host new year’s levees If you want to kick 2013 off right, three MPPs are inviting you to New Year’s levees in January.

The get-togethers are a chance to meet neighbours and enjoy some entertainment. n Don Valley West MPP Kathleen Wynne, who is running

for the leadership of the Ontario Liberal party, is holding her 10th annual levee Jan. 5 at Toronto Botanical Garden at 777 Lawrence Ave., at Leslie Street from 1 to 3 p.m.

The party will include refreshments and live entertainment.

n On Jan. 13, Don Valley East MPP Michael Coteau will host his levee from 2 to 4 p.m. at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers at 1377 Lawrence Ave. east of the Don Valley Parkway.

There will be plenty of food and

mingling. n Willowdale MPP David Zimmer will ring in the new year with his levee Jan. 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Edithvale Community Centre at 131 Finch Ave. west of Yonge Street.

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NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013 |

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Community

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Staff photo/NICK PERRY

The Willowdale Blackhawks (in the red jerseys) host a team of young hockey players from Hong Kong in a friendly game of hockey at Irving Chapley Community Centre on Christmas Eve afternoon.

Hong Kong hockey team gets ice experience in North York FANNIE SUNSHINE fsunshine@insidetoronto.com

T

he out-of-town youngsters were a little tired from an overseas flight and hectic schedule of ice time, but the young players from Hong Kong gave it their all during an outdoor shinny game against the Willowdale Blackhawks minor atom team on Christmas Eve. The players, who hailed from the Hong Kong Academy of Ice Hockey, glided into Irving Chapley Arena on Wilmington Drive to play a game against the North York players before heading to Ottawa for the Bell Capital Cup tourna-

International relations forged by children on outdoor rink ment Dec. 28 to Jan. 1.

The two teams had already played two games the day before, with the hometown team beating their rivals both times.

The games were designed to give the Hong Kong players some practice before heading to the nation’s capital, said their coach Stuart Winchester.

The 18 players, most of them 10 years old, got into Toronto Dec. 22 and had already played four games by the time Monday afternoon rolled around.

“This team doesn’t play together, it’s made up of

Luke Aprile moves the puck for the Willowdale Blackhawks as they host a team from Hong Kong at Irving Chapley Community Centre.

four different teams,” he said.

“It’s important they play together and get some much needed experience.

I thought some pre-tournament games would help improve their skills. They were pretty spent after the third game, but the best way to punch through jet lag is to keep going. We want them to have a great experience and we’ve talked about attitude and supporting one another. We want to see where our program is compared to Canada and where our challenges are.”

Scott McFarland, a

team manager with the Willowdale Blackhawks, said he got a call about a month ago about a team that was looking to play a few games exhibition-style to gain experience and thought holding it in an outdoor rink would give them a “true Canadian hockey experience.”

“It’s exciting for kids on both sides,” said McFarland, adding the kids indulged in Canadian fare – Tim Hortons Tim Bits and hot chocolate – before the game.

“There is no clock, no lines on the ice,” he said.

Vinson Li of Hong Kong moves the puck past Zander Hutchinson of the minor atom Blackhawks in a friendly game of hockey.

“It’s very old-school style.

They are there to have fun, there’s not a lot of defence.”

York Centre Councillor James Pasternak said the game is what international relations is all about.

“When I got a call saying there was a team from Hong Kong playing in Ward 10 and would I do the welcome and face off, I cleared my schedule and made sure I was here,” said Pasternak, who dropped the ceremonial puck. “This is the kind of thing we want to encourage.”

Ryan Qin was looking forward to his first outdoor

hockey game against players from his hometown.

“There aren’t going to be any rules so you can concentrate on other stuff,” he said.

Hong Kong player Marvin Hsu, who was on his first trip to Canada, said he hopes to complete his post-secondary studies here.

“I think Canada is a wonderful place,” said the 10-year-old. “We’ve played a few games already and we’re starting to work together better. I’m looking forward to the tournament.”

The North York team ended up beating the Hong Kong players 7-5.

Staff photos/nick perry

Ho Chung Cheng of Hong Kong moves the puck past Ethan Cohen of the Willowdale Blackhawks.

| NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013

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NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013 |

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Opinion The North York Mirror is published every Thursday and Friday at 175 Gordon Baker Rd., Toronto, ON, M2H 0A2, by Toronto Community News, a Division of Metroland Media Group Ltd. Ian Proudfoot Marg Middleton Peter Haggert Paul Futhey Warren Elder Angela Carruthers Debra Weller Mike Banville

nym@insidetoronto.com

Your View

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Appointment better than byelection

The Mirror is a member of the Ontario Press Council. Visit ontpress.com

Being healthy helps entire community

N

ow that we’re already three days into 2013, a number of our readers may already be struggling with the New Year’s resolutions they made Tuesday morning. Don’t fear, however, as the City of Toronto’s Public Health department is available to offer you some help.

“If your new year’s resolution is to be healthier, Toronto Public Health (TPH) is here to support you throughout our view the year,” said Catherine Clarke, manager of healthy living, in a Take the first press release this week.

That’s good, because healthy step toward a residents benefit the entire community in so many ways. healthy 2013 People who feel better have more energy, and are able to be more involved and effective members of their workforce, their families and their communities. A healthier population as a whole also eases stresses and costs on our health care system.

So often, well-intentioned new year’s resolutions are quickly tossed aside because they are just too hard to accomplish and those who make them become discouraged. That’s where TPH is offering some specific help to local residents.

For those who want to quit smoking, TPH has 1,000 free quit kits available for residents. The kits include sugarless gum, a stress ball, a toothbrush and other items to help those trying to quit smoking deal with their cravings. Those looking for some personal advice, can also call a TPH nurse at 416-338-7974.

There’s more specific information on quitting smoking online at www.toronto.ca/health/smokefree/quittingsmoking There’s also help for those looking to get more exercise or improve their eating habits in 2013.

TPH advises residents to eat healthy by cutting down on portion sizes, reading labels for calorie and sodium counts, and asking restaurant staff for nutritional information when ordering food. Many city restaurants already offer such information online.

There are also TPH registered dieticians available to offer advice by calling 416-338-7600, and more info is online at www.toronto.ca/health/nutrition One of the best ways to start getting healthier is to get more exercise, and TPH says that’s as simple as just getting out into your neighbourhood and taking a walk. For inspiration, there’s a pedometer lending program offered through Toronto Public Libraries.

More info at www.toronto.ca/health/walkintohealth Walking is easy and it’s also a great way to get to know your community better. We encourage all our readers to take that first step to better health in 2013. newsroom

Write us The North York Mirror 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 North York Mirror, 175 Gordon Baker Rd. Toronto, ON, M2H 0A2.

Things are trending upward in 2013

G

ranted, it’s only been a few days and therefore way too soon to jump to any conclusions, but so far things are definitely looking up for the new year of 2013.

Here are just a few examples: Phone bill – up.

Cellphone bill – up.

Cable bill – up.

Internet bill – up.

Hydro bill – up.

Rent – up.

Property taxes – up.

Subscription fees – up.

Annual dues – up.

Annual don’ts – up.

TTC fares – up.

Go transit fares – up.

Gas – up.

Car insurance – up.

Parking – up.

Meat – up.

Eggs – up.

Milk – up.

Juice – up.

but seriously

jamie wayne

Bread – up.

Generally, keeping food on the table – up.

Table – up.

Dog food – up.

Cat food – up.

Generally, keeping food on the floor – up.

Floor – up.

Postal rates – up.

Banking fees – up.

Passport fees – up.

Travel fees – up.

Staying at home fees – up.

Entertainment fees – up.

Miscellaneous fees – up.

Knickknacks – up.

Odds and ends – up.

Notions – up.

Inflation – up.

Debt – up.

Etcetera – up. And so on – up. And so forth – up.

Yup, everything appears to be up alright, alas, everything except salaries, that is, which would really come in handy right about now, given the current trend.

But hey, it’s early in the new year.

And though I wouldn’t exactly recommend holding your breath, there is still plenty of time for salaries to jump on the ole up bandwagon, too.

Speaking of which, up bandwagon maintenance fees – up.

Up bandwagon license renewal fees – up. n 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

To the editor: The appeal of Mayor Rob Ford to be heard ths month is unlikely to change the trial verdict against him.

Under mandatory sentencing laws brought to us all by the Prime Minister Stephen Harper government, judges have no latitude to modify sentences.

If the appeal fails, council will have to choose between appointing a replacement or calling a byelection. Appointment of a moderate, neutral person who would nevertheless move matters forward would be, by far, the better option.

The problem might be finding someone willing to accept the appointment.

A byelection would be a big disruption and could result in a partisan mayor and a continuation of squabbles when we need calm decision-making.

A neutral appointee will not please everyone, but will not arouse the deep antagonisms that a partisan would.

Our councillor has asked for our preference and we have replied. Your councillor may or may not ask for you opinion. There is nothing stopping you from taking the initiative.

A byelection is certainly something to consider. Just remember the price – said to be $7 million or possibly more.

If you opt for a byelection, you might as well also tell your councillor what further taxes you would like to pay and/or services you would like to see cut since the expense is money the city doesn’t have.

Also consider which option, byelection or appointment, is likely to lead to continuation of strife or a calm consideration of the city’s business.

By the time a new mayor is installed by either option, we might have a year or little more of actual mayoral leadership before we are into the distraction of the 2014 civic election.

Bruce Nord

416-493-4400 | distribution ph: 416-493-4400 fax: 416-495-6524 | display advertising ph: 416-493-4400 fax: 416-495-6629 | classifieds ph: 416-493-4660 fax: 416-495-6629 | administration ph: 416-493-4400 fax: 416-495-6629

Community

North York church gives gift of charity in Latin America HILARY CATON hcaton@insidetoronto.com

T

he Caravan of Hope was on a mission and no amount of snow or slippery roads would get in its way.

Four ambulances filled with wheelchairs, walkers, stretchers and medical supplies destined for Ecuador and Guatemala needed to get from Toronto to Montreal last Thursday.

The day after the GTA was hit with the first snowstorm of the season that dumped more than 10 centimetre of snow on the city.

But with Father Hernán Astudillo of North York’s San Lorenzo Anglican Church and his seven volunteers at the helm, there was never any doubt the precious cargo wouldn’t make it, despite the bad weather and rough road conditions.

“It was a very intense and risky adventure,” said Astudillo.

“Close to Kingston we almost ran off the road because of a large piece of

Staff photo/IRVIN MINTZ

Father Hernán Astudillo of San Lorenzo Church clears snow from one of four ambulances heading out from the church last Thursday morning as part of the ongoing Caravan of Hope project. The ambulances were to be driven to Montreal and then loaded on a ship for delivery to Guatemala and Ecuador.

black ice. And at Cornwall the road was covered in a thick layer of snow, you could not see the road. We were driving blind.”

But still they pressed on

in spite of seeing roads and highways littered with cars that were not as lucky as Astudillo and his crew.

Once in Montreal, the ambulances were packed

into shipping containers set to hit the seas on Monday.

Two of the ambulances will be sent to the province of San Marcos in

Guatemala, still recovering from a 7.4-magnitude earthquake that rocked Central America on Nov. 7. And the remaining two ambulances are set to go to Morona Santiago in Ecuador as Astudillo’s first step toward expanding his Caravan of Hope initiative.

“One of my personal ambitions is to send at least one ambulance to each country in Latin America in the most vulnerable areas,” said Astudillo.

This trip will be the first time ambulances will travel by boat.

For the past 11 years, since the Caravan of Hope’s inception in 2001, Astudillo and his band of volunteers have driven ambulances and school buses full of medical and school supplies themselves to Latin American countries such as El Salvador and Nicaragua, a trip that takes roughly 12 days of driving to complete.

This trip marks the church’s 14th visit and is its second trip of 2012.

Astudillo plans to fly to both Guatemala and

‘One of my personal ambitions is to send at least one ambulance to each country in Latin America in the most vulnerable areas.’

– Father Hernán Astudillo Ecuador in early February once the ambulances have cleared customs.

It took Astudillo about seven months of raffles and fundraisers to raise the $21,000 needed to buy all three ambulances. The fourth was donated by Elite 911, an authorized usedambulance dealership at Finch Avenue and Dufferin Street.

“This is the best gift we could give this Christmas season,” said Astudillo.

“To give the gift of charity to our brothers and sisters who are in need in Ecuador and Guatemala.”

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Come to a Community Discussion Join us at a community open house and discussion to learn more about the process and issues, talk with City staff, and join discussion groups on key topics. Drop-in anytime during one of the events below: Wednesday January 9

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| NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013

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Community

NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013 |

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Student sees Canada from the floor of the Senate

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or as long as she can remember, Safa Abdel Rahman has had an interest in politics.

Growing up, the North York resident’s parents made sure their daughter was well versed in global and local issues and encouraged her to watch the news for half an hour every night.

So it came as little surprise Abdel Rahman applied for and was accepted into the Ontario legislative page program in Grade 8 and, several years later as an adult, as a page for the Senate of Canada.

Abdel Rahman was one of 10 students selected from across Canada to represent their province or territory for the 2012/2013 Senate page program.

The 19-year-old, a second-year University of Ottawa student studying conflict studies and human rights, said she thought applying for the Senate page program would be the perfect opportunity to see law makers in action.

“You see them really debate laws and see how it affects you in your daily life,” she said.

Senate pages are enrolled as full-time undergraduate students in one of the universities in the Ottawa area. Pages are hired on a one-year contract with the possibility of renewal for a second year. Pages also have the opportunity of remaining for a third year, if chosen as chief page or deputy chief page. Pages must be fluent in both English and French.

Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume and pass an oral French test. A knowledge test on Canada’s government, Senate and Parliament Hill is then administered and if applicants pass, the final step is the interview, Abdel Rahman said.

The page program has room for 15 students, but since pages can come back for a possible second year, only 10 spots were available this time around, she said.

Days typically begin at 11 a.m., when pages arrive to distribute files, including bills, journals, order papers, and debates of the Senate and House of

Photo/courtesy

Safa Abdel Rahman has been selected to work as a page in the Senate of Canada.

‘I knew what senators did, just not to this extent. The program is a really good opportunity for students to see what goes on in Canada.’

– Safa Abdel Rahman, chosen as one of 10 pages in the Senate Commons to all senators and officers in the Senate Chamber. Pages are also responsible for any special requests pertaining to the day’s sitting. After finishing various other tasks, pages then place a glass of water on each senator’s desk.

Pages also assist the governor general, prime minister and supreme court justices.

“We don’t only work the Senate sittings and committees but we also get to participate and work in special events,” she said. “I got to work when the prime minister was giving Diamond Jubilee Medals to Olympians and we got to speak to some of them. We also got to help with the Remembrance Day ceremony and recently we visited Rideau Hall and meet the governor general himself.”

Senators have been warm and friendly to pages, Adbel Rahman said, adding several have given them presenta-

tions and have explained what their jobs entail.

“I knew what senators did, just not to this extent,” she said. “The program is a really good opportunity for students to see what goes on in Canada.”

Chief page Julien Labrosse said Abdel Rahman is very devoted to the job and is always ready to lend a hand.

“She is professional and accomplishes her page duties with a high standard,” he said.

“She is fluent in both official languages, a skill which has proved useful in her work with senators, members of the administration, and with other activities. Safa has participated in numerous activities of promotion for the program, in which she talked various audiences about her duties as a page and her personal background, in both official languages.”

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| NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013

NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013 |

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It’s Happening in North York n Saturday, Jan. 5

Chungsen Leung’s New Year’s Levee WHEN: 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. WHERE: The Grand Luxe Event Boutique, 3125 Bayview Ave. CONTACT: Jane Ng, 416-223 2858, chungsen.leung.c1@parl.gc.ca COST: Free You are invited to the second annual New Year’s Levee of Chungsen Leung, MP for Willowdale

n Tuesday, Jan. 8

Donway Badminton Club WHEN: 6:30 to 10 p.m. WHERE: Don Mills Collegiate, 15 The Donway East CONTACT: donwaybclub6@gmail.com COST: Membership $50; guests $5 Get active and have fun playing badminton. All skill levels welcome. For 16 years and older. Every Tuesday.

of diabetes. If you or a family member has diabetes or is pre-diabetic we encourage you to attend.

n Tuesday, Jan. 15

Knitting for Charity WHEN: 6:30 to 8 p.m. WHERE: Centennial Library, 578 Finch Ave. W. CONTACT: Zelda Pasternack, 416-395-5490, www.HoneyColeman.com, EFTHoney@ gmail.com COST: Free Group meets again starting today.

New knitters/crocheter’s welcome. We meet every Tuesday night. Needles and yarn provided. Refreshments included.

Yarn donations always welcome at the library.

Canadian Opera Company Opera Talk 3: ‘La clemenza di Tito’

WHEN: 7 to 8 p.m. WHERE: North York Central Library Auditorium, 5120 Yonge St. CONTACT: Elizabeth, 416-395-5639 COST: Free This talk balances history and guided listening with images and production insights into the operas presented in the COC’s 2012/2013 season. Talk 3: For his final opera, Mozart saved his best for last in this sublimely beautiful score that celebrates the virtues of enlightened political leadership in the face of devastating personal betrayal. Call to register.

Summer Camp Fair WHEN: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. WHERE: Crescent School (Upper Gym), 2365 Bayview Ave. CONTACT: Miles Villneff, 416-482-0782, miles@onondagacamp. com COST: Free

Meet with directors from many of Ontario’s children’s summer camps. Bring the family to the camp info evening.

Canadian Hybridizers of African Violets WHEN: 7:30 to 10 p.m. WHERE: Toronto Botanical Garden, 777 Lawrence Ave. E. CONTACT: Sayeh Beheshti, , www.tavs.ca, info@tavs.ca COST: Free

n Monday, Jan. 21

n Thursday, Jan. 24

n Tuesday, Jan. 15

Goulding Park Hockey Association and North York Rangers WHEN: 7 to 8 p.m. WHERE: Goulding Community Centre, 45 Goulding Ave. CONTACT: David Mitchell, dgmit@bell. net COST: Free Annual general meeting.

Fitness Resolutions WHEN: 1 to 2 p.m. WHERE: Downsview Library, 2793 Keele St. CONTACT: Diana, 416-395-5720, doprograms@torontopubliclibrary.ca COST: Free Join Jose Villablanca, health and fitness consultant, and learn about setting realistic fitness goals. Visit www.holisticjose. com for more information about Jose.

Call or email to register.

Employment Essentials Job Search Workshop WHEN: 1 to 2 p.m. WHERE: Downsview Library, 2793 Keele St. CONTACT: Diana, 416-395-5720, doprograms@torontopubliclibrary.ca COST: Free Open to everyone (youth, adults and older adults) presented by YES (www. yes.on.ca). Call or email the library to register.

n Friday, Jan. 25

Shabbat Shirah WHEN: 7:15 p.m. WHERE: Temple Sinai Congregation of Toronto, 210 Wilson Ave. CONTACT: Temple Office, 416-4874161, www.templesinai.net, office@ templesinai.net COST: Free Celebrate Shabbat Shirah with the Temple Sinai Ensemble Choir and Band.

n Friday, Jan. 11

n Saturday, Jan. 26

Bridge and Euchre WHEN: Noon to 3:30 p.m. WHERE: Parkwoods United Church, 85 Parkwoods Village Dr. CONTACT: Ann Patterson, ann.patterson@sympatico.ca COST: Free For those 50 years and older. Weekly.

Icewave GTA/Toronto Beach Volleyball Event for SickKids WHEN: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. WHERE: Beach Blast, 15 Leswyn Rd. (off Orfus Rd.) CONTACT: Rosanne O’Neill, 416-2370123, www.HeatwaveEvents.com, info@ HeatwaveEvents.com COST: $450 per team The 17th Anniversary Indoor Beach Volleyball Event for SickKids with three Saturdays to choose from: Jan. 26, Feb. 2 and Feb. 9. Visit the website for a team entry form and online fundraising.

A Tu B’Shvat Tot Shabbat WHEN: 6 p.m. WHERE: Temple Sinai Congregation of Toronto, 210 Wilson Ave. CONTACT: Education Office, 416487-3281, www.templesinai.net, education@templesinai.net COST: $16/$20 Tu B’Shvat is the season in which the earliest-blooming trees in the Land of Israel emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.

Call or email to reserve. Registration is required by Jan. 9 at noon.

Shabbat Morning Family Service WHEN: 10:30 a.m. WHERE: Temple Sinai Congregation of Toronto, 210 Wilson Avenue CONTACT: Temple Office, 416-487-4161, www.templesinai.net, office@templesinai.net COST: Free

n Monday, Jan. 14

North York Diabetes Group WHEN: 7 to 9 p.m. WHERE: North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge St. CONTACT: Anna Le-quang, 416 221-2841, anna. le-quang@diabetes.ca COST: Free This informal group meets monthly to discuss the treatment, control and cure for diabetes. The group arranges regular talks by a variety of health care professionals in respect of diabetes to encourage better prevention and control

n Tuesday, Jan. 22

Golden Oak Award Nominee: Jody Nyasha Warner WHEN: 7 to 8 p.m. WHERE: Downsview Library, 2793 Keele St. CONTACT: 416395-5720, doprograms@torontopubliclibrary.ca COST: Free Meet Golden Oak nominated author Jody Nyasha Warner as she discusses her book, ‘Viola Desmond Won’t be Budged’.

n Thursday, Jan. 10

Mini Programs WHEN: 9:30 a.m. WHERE: Temple Sinai Congregation of Toronto, 210 Wilson Ave. CONTACT: Education Office, 416487-3281, www.templesinai.net, education@templesinai.net COST: $80 An eight-week program starts today for children 12 months to five years old: Mini Chefs at Work, Super Scientist, Junior Circuit, Surprise Package, Let’s Celebrate, Bubby/Zaidy and Me, Puppetry and Sportball. Morning programs run from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m; lunchtime programs run from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; afternoon programs run from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

insidetoronto.com

n Sunday, Jan. 27 n Announcement

Miniature Train, Stroll with Santa at Shops at Don Mills WHEN: Continues to Jan. 6 WHERE: 1090 Don Mills Rd. CONTACT: Shops at Don Mills, 416-447-6087, www. shopsatdonmills.ca, sdmguestservices@cadillacefairview.com COST: $3 Tickets will be sold at guest services for $3 per person per ride with net proceeds to the Toronto Fire Fighters’ Toy Drive. Also, meet Santa Claus as he strolls through the outdoor mall handing out treats. Visit the website for exact dates and times.

n Ongoing

Friendly Games of Bridge WHEN: 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays WHERE: Trinity Presbyterian Church York Mills, 2737 Bayview Ave. CONTACT: 416-447-5136 COST: $2 per session Women in the community welcome to join in. Coffee and cookies afterwards.

Weekly Bridge WHEN: Noon to 3 p.m. Mondays WHERE: Willowdale United Church, 349 Kenneth Ave. CONTACT: Betty Jacobs, 416-223-0568, bettyjeanne. jacobs@gmail.com COST: $2, includes refreshments New players welcome. All levels of play accepted.

Tap Dance Classes WHEN: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays WHERE: Goulding Community Centre, 45 Goulding Ave. CONTACT: Marilyn Huziak, 905-989-2423, huziak@sympatico.ca COST: $84 for 12 weeks/$9 drop-in Toronto Jewish Folk Choir Invites New Singers WHEN: 7:30 to 10 p.m. Wednesdays WHERE: Winchevsky Centre, 585 Cranbrook Ave. CONTACT: Luba, 905669-5906, www.winchevskycentre. org/institutions/choir.html, folkchoir@

hotmail.com COST: Free The semi-professional choir sings mainly Jewish music and songs on Jewish themes, in four-part harmony (soprano, alto, tenor, bass). Ability to read music is helpful but not essential.

Scrabble WHEN: 6:45 to 9:45 p.m. Wednesdays WHERE: Broadlands Community Centre, 19 Castlegrove Blvd. CONTACT: Rosemarie Rabindranath, 416-4497126 COST: Free

n Submit Your Event

The North York Mirror wants your community listings. Whether it’s a church knitting group or a music night or a non-profit group’s program for kids, The Mirror wants to know about it so others can attend. Please sign up online at insidetoronto.com to submit your events (click the Sign Up link in the top right corner of the page).

Accent on Youth Concert WHEN: 11 a.m. WHERE: Temple Sinai Congregation of Toronto, 210 Wilson Ave/ CONTACT: Temple Office, 416-4874161, www.templesinai.net, office@ templesinai.net COST: Free Our annual Accent on Youth concert features the Kachol Lavan Choir and the Temple Sinai Youth Choir.

An Evening with Dr. Mordechai Kedar WHEN: 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Temple Sinai Congregation of Toronto, 210 Wilson Ave. CONTACT: Temple Sinai, 416-4874161, www.templesinai.net, office@ templesinai.net COST: Free

n Monday, Jan. 28

North York Garden Club WHEN: 8 to 9 p.m. WHERE: St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 3200 Bayview Ave. CONTACT: Pat Cappelli, 647-296-0402, northyorkgardenclub.ca, patcappelli@ yahoo.ca COST: Free Knowledgeable advice from Ian McCullum of Woodhill Garden Centre.

9

| NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013

NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013 |

10

Community

Food drive still short of grocery and financial donations With just a few days to go, North York Harvest Food Bank (NYHFB) is still significantly short of its goal for the Winter Food Drive.

As of last Friday, 170,000 pounds of food had been donated, along with $211,810, said communi-

cations manager Juneeja Varghese.

This year’s goal is to collect 240,000 pounds of food and $240,000.

“The increase in need reflects ongoing, systemic issues,” Anette Chawla, executive director of

First-time parents celebrate >>>from page 1 His wife had a natural birth with epidural assist.

Although the couple are first-time parents, Gary explains that he wasn’t too nervous about what was to come once the baby arrived.

But that’s partially due to some “very good advice” from a friend during his wife’s pregnancy.

“He said to me, ‘You may not feel it because your wife is still pregnant, but everything will totally change the moment you see another person in your hands.’ And that was exactly what I felt.”

Both mother and baby are doing well and were expected to leave the hospital yesterday afternoon.

Photo/COURTESY

Newborn Joshua is cradled by his father, Gary.

Sunnybrook hospital on Bayview Avenue had a baby girl arrive at 12:16 a.m.

Humber River’s Finch site’s first birth was 12:42 a.m.

NYHFB, previously said in a release.

“Many of our clients face unemployment, or parttime and contract work, and struggle to meet the high cost of living in Toronto.

To meet this increased demand, and collect enough

food for the winter months ahead, we must raise 240,000 pounds of healthy food and $240,000.”

The food bank, which also serves the former city of York, is facing a 19 per cent increase in demand, which closely reflects post-

recession levels of 2008.

NYHFB is the primary food bank in northern Toronto, distributing 1.6 million pounds of food in 2011 to 60 community programs.

The food bank’s catchment area is bounded by

Steeles Avenue, Victoria Park Avenue, St. Clair Avenue/ Eglinton Avenue and Hwy. 27.

The Winter Food Drive will end Jan. 7. For a list of suggested food donations, visit www.northyorkharvest. com/donate-food

Man charged in city’s first murder of 2013 A man who turned himself into police has been charged with second-degree murder in a fatal stabbing outside a North York bar just hours into the new year.

Police said a man was stabbed outside Randy’s Sports Bar and Restaurant at 4801 Keele St., south of Steeles Avenue.

Friends drove him to the hospital around 5 a.m., where he was pronounced dead.

Police have identified the deceased as O’Marie Brooks, 22, of Toronto.

Nicholas Silvera, 29, of Toronto, surrendered to police Tuesday.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 416-

808-7400 or Crime Stoppers at 416-222-8477.

Brampton, was charged.

n Robbery arrest

Police are investigating a possible attempted abduction after a man tried to grab two young girls on Senlac Road Dec. 20.

Police said three 10-year-old girls were walking southbound along Senlac Road around 3:30 p.m., toward Sheppard Avenue, when they noticed a man following them.

Two of the girls became uncomfortable and ran ahead, while the third one continued to walk at a normal pace.

The man grabbed the girl’s waist and tried to pull her back but lost his grip. He then grabbed her backpack but she

A man is facing 11 charges after a shot was fired inside a Dufferin Street and Ranee Avenue convenience store Sunday.

Police said a man entered Yorkdale Mart convenience store, pointed a loaded .357 Magnum handgun at an employee and demanded cash. The gunman then fired a shot into the cigarette case and left without any cash, police said.

Plainclothes officers witnessed the man leaving the store and arrested him.

Carlos Gomez, 35, of

n Abduction attempt

pulled away and ran.

The man caught up with the other girls and attempted to grab another one, police said.

He did not speak during the incident but make moaning sounds, police said.

The man is described as white, tall, in his late 40s to early 50s, with short brown hair and clean shaven.

He was wearing a gray or black toque with rips worn high on his head, a gray or brown jacket or sweatshirt, light baggy jeans with multiple rips and well-worn brown shoes with black shoelaces.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 416-8083200 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-8477.

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Staff photos/Dan Pearce

SHOOTOUT WIN: Top, North York Ranger Taylor Pryce and Toronto Junior Canadien Danny Liscio battle for the puck during Junior A hockey action at Carnegie Centennial Arena Sunday. After the game finished in a 3-3 tie, the Junior Canadiens went on to score a shoot out victory in the all-North York battle. Middle, Ranger Liam Kerins gets stopped by Junior Canadiens goalie Denny Dubblestyne. Bottom, John Carpino is denied

by Dubblestyne. The Rangers are in Mississauga Saturday and then host Milton on Sunday at 3 p.m. at Carnegie. The Junior Canadiens are in Oakville Friday before returning home to host the Toronto Lakeshore Patriots on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. at Chesswood.

| NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013

Battle of North York

NORTH YORK MIRROR s | Thursday, January 3, 2013 |

12

City Hall in review

Six issues that defined the year at City Hall DAVID NICKLE dnickle@insidetoronto.co,

I

t was a tumultuous year for Mayor Rob Ford and the 44 councillors who run this city.

Subway plans evaporated as highways crumbled; librarians walked the picket lines and casino moguls walked into city hall. And the mayor – oh, the stories.

To help readers sort it all out, here are some of the stories that helped define Toronto City Hall in 2012.

n THE 2012 BUDGET

Mayor Rob Ford’s second budget started 2012 in crisis. In 2011, budget chief Mike Del Grande and his budget committee delivered a budget that had communities across the city up in arms. There were cuts to libraries, arts grants, sidewalk snow-clearing in the suburbs, child care, and homeless shelters.

It was clear to the mayor’s supporters early on that there wasn’t going to be support for what opponents

called a “radical conservative” budget. So at the executive committee, Ford’s allies attempted to strike a compromise deal, reversing some of the more controversial cuts by dipping into $8 million in unanticipated revenue.

It wasn’t enough. Mayor Ford made a personal plea to councillors to leave the budget as it was recommended – putting $154 million in surplus all into capital debt reduction.

Council didn’t listen. In late January, council supported a motion by councillor Josh Colle that restored nearly all the cuts the mayor’s budget had proposed, digging into reserves to the tune of $20 million.

n SUBWAYS

In 2010, Mayor Rob Ford campaigned on a plan to scrap his predecessor David Miller’s light rail Transit City plan, and instead extend the Sheppard subway into Scarborough. Shortly after he was elected, he declared Transit City “dead” and

began a process to find private sector investors as well as provincial and federal funding to make the subway a reality.

Former city councillor Gordon Chong was charged with providing a strategy for doing so, and for a time a majority of councillors went along with the subway plan.

But following the mayor’s budget defeat, councillors who opposed the costly subway plan saw what proved to be a fatal opening. The mayor and Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty had drafted a memorandum of understanding between the city and the provincial government, that the $8.4 billion in funding that was to have gone to build Transit City light rail lines on Eglinton, Sheppard and Finch Avenues would be diverted to building the Eglinton light rail line all underground.

But the memorandum of understanding needed to be ratified by Toronto Council. And when that finally came forward, along

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with Chong’s report on funding, council rejected both it and the plan. Over Ford’s objection, council convened its own expert panel on what to do about the Sheppard corridor.

Ford’s team was furious, and at the next meeting of the Toronto Transit Commission, gathered the votes to fire Gary Webster, the TTC’s Chief General Manager who had advised council that light rail made more sense along the relatively lightly-populated suburban routes. Council was equally infuriated by the move, and at a special meeting voted to fire the TTC members who’d voted to fire Webster.

When the expert panel finally returned, it advised, as expected, to go ahead with LRT on Sheppard and abandon the subway plan.

The mayor voted against the plan, and vowed to continue to campaign for re-election in 2014 on a promise to build subways and kill light rail once and for all.

n THE GARDINER

This spring and summer, motorists began complaining of falling concrete as they drove beneath the elevated section on Lakeshore Boulevard.

Subsequent examination by city engineers revealed the structure, which was not designed to last through repeated exposure to Canadian winters, was crumbling. In May, city crews began to tear off the most precarious slabs of concrete, and the city developed a plan to deal with the problem.

By the end of the year, it had become clear the problems with the Gardiner were much more serious than initially thought. The city’s 2013 operating budget contains more than half a billion dollars to do major repairs on not only the underside but also the surface of the highway.

n PLASTIC BAGS

In late 2011, Mayor Rob Ford told a radio station interviewer he had been hearing from members of the public upset that the city was still forcing retailers to charge five cents a bag for plastic shopping bags. Ford agreed, and said he’d like to end that once and for all.

In July, the matter came before council, in the form of a report suggesting the bag fee be targeted toward protecting Toronto’s tree canopy. Ford brought forward an amendment, to simply end the bag fee altogether.

That amendment succeeded. But it was not the only one to do so.

Willowdale Councillor David Shiner moved an amendment that would ban all plastic shopping bags from Toronto retailers by Jan. 1, 2013, and council approved it as well.

It was touch and go in the coming months as to whether council would go through with it. An attempt by Ford supporters to reopen the matter and overturn the amendment failed in the fall, because it requires a 2/3 vote to reopen a matter already decided within a calendar year.

But before the bylaw came forward, council did vote to hold public consultations on its implementation. In the course of those consultations, several industry associations brought forward legal challenges.

And in the late fall, council voted to kill the bylaw.

Next year, the city’s Public Works and Infrastructure Committee will be looking at a report on how to reduce the use of plastic bags in the city – which could include a ban.

n LABOUR

As Toronto Council was battling it out with the mayor over control of the city, negotiators for the city and the unions that represent most of its workers were fighting toe to toe over their collective agreements – all of which came up in late 2011.

At issue were clauses in the contracts with inside and outside workers providing job security in the event the city decided to contract out their services.

These clauses were negotiated under former Mayor Mel Lastman and persisted under Mayor David Miller.

The Ford administration was the first to be able to weaken job protection on those grounds – and with one brief exception, did so without job disruptions.

In each case, city negotiators did so by playing

tough. The city moved to go into conciliation with its outside workers, CUPE Local 416, in 2011 before the collective agreement had even expired. And in January, the city asked for a ‘no board’ report, starting the countdown for a strike or lockout.

The tactic had its effect.

CUPE negotiators countered by offering a wage freeze. The city held its ground. Eventually, a tentative deal was struck.

The city’s inside workers followed suit a month later.

In the end, only library workers went on strike – a walkout that lasted nearly two weeks. In the end, they settled on a contract that was marginally better for the union than the one signed by CUPE, with higher wages and better job security language.

n THE MAYOR

Arguably the biggest story in Toronto was the story of the mayor himself.

Rob Ford started off the year on an optimistic note, taking part in a weight-loss challenge with his brother, Etobicoke North Councillor Doug Ford in the Cut the Waist Challenge. But the weight-loss program didn’t click and the challenge frittered away.

There were other incidents. The mayor was photographed reading while driving; he called TTC chief executive officer Andy Byford to complain about a streetcar driver who’d chided the mayor for driving past the open door of his streetcar.

And then there was football.

Ford started the year with what turned out to be a major blunder, when he spoke and voted on an integrity commissioner report asking council compel him to return $3,150 in money donated by lobbyists to his private football charity while he was a councillor.

Prominent lawyer Clayton Ruby and client Paul Magder took Ford to court, charging that he’d breached the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act and ought to be removed from office. Supreme Court Justice Charles Hackland agreed, and Ford’s future now rests in the hands of a Divisional Court of Appeal, set to convene Jan. 7.

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14

Community

Moeen Centre invites community to help celebrate Prophet Muhammad’s birthday Event to take place at Senator O’Connor Catholic Secondary School Scarborough’s Moeen Centre for Physically Disabled and Developmentally Challenged Young Adults is inviting everyone to an event in North York.

The Seerat un Nabi will celebrate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad.

The event is also a volunteer appreciation day.

Parents are asked to register their children for Naat, Hamads recitation and speeches.

There will be guest speakers and a presentation by children.

Tabaruk will be served.

Guests are asked to reserve their seats by calling the Moeen Centre at 416-264-

5809.

Financial donations for the centre are gratefully accepted.

The event will be held Saturday, Jan. 12 at 4 p.m. at Senator O’Connor Catholic Secondary School, 60 Rowena Dr., southwest of Ellesmere Road and Victoria Park.

Top prospects gathering in North York The Greater Toronto Hockey League’s fourth annual top prospects game will be held Tuesday, Jan. 8, 7:30 p.m., at Herbert Carnegie Centennial Arena in North York.

The game will showcase the top 40 minor midgetaged players from the GTHL, which serves Toronto and surrounding municipalities.

The game will be broadcast on Rogers TV cable 10/63 in Toronto and will air on

Sunday, Jan. 13 at 8 p.m.

This year’s four celebrity coaches feature three former NHLers from Toronto – Nick Kypreos, Adam Graves and Kris Draper – and one former NHL general manager and coach, Doug MacLean.

The retired players all came up through local city hockey organizations: Kypreos with Wexford and Toronto Flames; Draper with the Don Mills Flyers; and Graves with the Young Nationals and the

North York Civics.

Tickets are $5 in advance or $6 at the gate. Advance ticket purchase is recommended to avoid line-ups at the arena.

“We are looking forward to this year’s event,” said GTHL president John Gardner, in a press release. “We are very pleased to have this group of celebrity coaches involved and we anticipate an exciting game as we have seen for the past three seasons.”

Stream Restoration to Protect Infrastructure in West Don River Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Notice of Study Completion Study Overview The City of Toronto has completed a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) study to assess where erosion has created risks to sanitary infrastructure in the west branch of the Don River through G Ross Lord Park. The objective of the study is to provide recommendations specific to the study area for channel restoration where sanitary infrastructure is in direct contact with a watercourse and has created risks to the environment and public health & safety.

The City has accepted the consultant’s recommendations to address erosion concerns of the west branch of the Don River Study Area, which include: • Relocating the sanitary sewer and maintenance holes away from the channel.

• Restoring ongoing erosion along the entire segment of channel in the vicinity of the sewer system.

Opportunities for Review The study was carried out following the requirements for Schedule 'B' projects under the Municipal Class EA. A Project File Report has been completed and has been placed on public record for a 30-day review period starting January 3, 2013 ending February 1, 2013. It will be available for review online (see project website) or at the following location: Centennial Library, 578 Finch Ave. W., 416-395-5490 If you have any outstanding issues about this project, please address them to the City staff listed below and we will attempt to seek a mutually acceptable resolution.

Mae Lee Senior Public Consultation Coordinator Public Consultation Unit City of Toronto Metro Hall, 19th Fl. 55 John St. Toronto, ON M5V 3C6

Tel: 416-392-8210 Fax: 416-392-2974 TTY: 416-338-0889 Email: rigmea_lee@toronto.ca Visit: toronto.ca/involved/projects/ humber_don_river/index.htm

If concerns regarding this project cannot be resolved in discussion with the City of Toronto, a person or party may request that the Ontario Minister of the Environment make an order for the project to comply with Part II of the Environmental Assessment Act (referred to as a Part II Order), which addresses individual environmental assessments. The Minister must receive the request in writing by February 1, 2013 at the address below, and a copy must also be sent to the City contact. If no requests are received by February 1, 2013, the City may proceed with this project as outlined in the Project File Report.

The Honourable Jim Bradley Ontario Minister of the Environment 77 Wellesley St. W.

Ferguson Block, 11th Fl. Toronto, ON M7A 2T5 Issue Date: January 3, 2013

Information will be collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.

Community

15 | NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013

catching the drift winter’s here! At left, Stephen McKerron, 7, enjoys the first snowfall of the season last Thursday by heading headfirst down the hill at Havenbrook Park Thursday morning. Below, London Frieberg, 9, gets into the sledding spirit. At right, Abbas Ranmard gets busy with a shovel clearing snow from his driveway.

Staff photos/Nick Perry

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Hi my name is Ikram Patel and I’m in grade 11. I’ve been delivering The Mirror for almost 2 years now, I like this job because it’s a good exercise and to connect with the community as well as meeting new people. This is a good way to earn some pocket money for students like me. I’m lucky to have such a family who helps me every week with my flyers. Thanks to my family, my life has been much easier. In my spare time, I like to play sports like baseball and hockey.

mathIeu

Hi I’m Mathieu! I have been delivering the North York Mirror since June, 2010. This is my first job and I have learned to be responsible and meet deadlines. I love music and I play the piano. I’m on my school’s improv team and participate in the curling club. As well, I enjoy downhill skiing, skating and golf. It’s a pleasure to have the opportunity to be a newspaper carrier.

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Give. Go. Find out how at WeDay.org

My name is Mithil, I am currently in grade 7, and I have been a carrier with Toronto community newspaper for 6 months. In my free time I enjoy playing sports like soccer, badminton, and baseball. I also like reading books, playing musical instruments, and learning new things. Being a carrier has helped to develop in many areas including social skills, interpersonal skills, and money managing skills. I am looking forward to working with the Toronto community newspaper for years to come.

If you wish to be a carrier, please call 416-493-4400

NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013 |

Arts & Entertainment

Plenty to entertain all ages in North York this month On Stage n WHAT: ‘The Pied Piper’ n WHEN: Jan. 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27, Feb. 2 and 3; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. n WHERE: Solar Stage Children’s Theatre, 4950 Yonge St., in The Madison Centre n TICKETS: $16 ($13 on Jan. 12 and 13) n DETAILS: This musical version of the traditional story, adapted from Grimm, takes you to a village that has rats and where people aren’t allowed to enjoy music and entertainment. For ages 3 to 10. n INFO: www.solarstage.on.ca, solarstage@bellnet.ca, 416-3688031 n WHAT: Theatre @ York presents ‘The Knight of the Burning Pestle’ n WHEN: Jan. 20 to 26 n WHERE: Joseph G. Green Studio Theatre, 139 Centre for Film and Theatre, York University, 4700 Keele St. n TICKETS: Regular run $17, students and seniors $12, previews $5; Call the box office at 416-7365888 n DETAILS: A new adaptation of Francis Beaumont’s play, reimagined for the 21st century.

Originally performed in 1607 by the Children of the Blackfriars, one of the leading children’s acting troupes of Elizabethan and Jacobean England, the show was a famous flop at its premiere but has since gained a loyal following.

It offers everything from romance, treachery and sword-fighting to a meta-theatrical exploration of the conventions of theatre, improvisation and spectatorship. n INFO: http://theatre.finearts. yorku.ca/performance/theatreyork/ n WHAT: ‘Baroque London’ n WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 22 n WHERE: George Weston Recital Hall at the Toronto Centre for the

Arts, 5040 Yonge St. n TICKETS: www.ticketmaster.ca n DETAILS: ‘Baroque London’ is a words-and-music exploration into the world of London’s concert halls circa 1720. It is conceived, scripted and acted by R.H. Thomson, who lends his imagination to what life would have been like for Mr. Richard Neale, an oboist in the King’s Theatre Haymarket. n INFO: www.tafelmusik.org

n WHEN: Exhibit opening Jan. 17, 7 to 8:30 n WHERE: Weston Family Library at the TBG, 777 Lawrence Ave. E. ADMISSION: Free n DETAILS: Celebrate the work of our talented botanical art students and meet both students and instructors. n INFO: Call 416-397-1341 or email info@torontobotanicalgarden.ca. http://torontobotanicalgarden.ca

n WHAT:: ‘Love Letters’ n WHEN: Jan. 25 to Feb. 3 n WHERE: The Toronto Centre for the Arts, 5040 Yonge St. n TICKETS: Email encoreshows@ gmail.com n DETAILS: Presented by Encore Entertainment, a not-for-profit theatre company, providing family entertainment at an affordable price since 1997.

INFO: www.encoreshows.com/

n WHAT: Living the Dream Skydiving Photography by Nina Topic n WHEN: Runs to Jan. 31 n WHERE: North York Central Library, 5120 Yonge St. n ADMISSION: Free n DETAILS: skydiving photography pictures shot in free fall or during the parachute opening procedure. The human body is falling 150 to 170 km/h belly to the ground. n INFO: www.torontopubliclibrary.ca, 416-395-5535

ART n WHAT: Glendon Students Visual Arts Competition Exhibition n WHEN: Jan. 15 to 25 n WHERE: Glendon Manor, Glendon College, York University, 2275 Bayview Ave. DETAILS: Gallery hours are Tuesday to Friday noon to 3 p.m., Saturday 1 to 4 p.m. n INFO: 416-487-6721, www.glendon.yorku.ca/gallery n WHAT: Colour and Form Society: Canadian Landmarks n WHEN: Show and sale runs to Jan. 25 n WHERE: Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery, 901 Lawrence Ave. W. n DETAILS: Artists celebrate their unique sense of being Canadian. n INFO: www.carriergallery.com; www.colourandformsociety.org n WHAT: Toronto Botanical Garden Student Exhibition

n WHAT: Faeries Drawings by Sarah Greenall n WHEN: Runs to Jan. 31 n WHERE: Don Mills Library, 888 Lawrence Ave. E. n ADMISSION: Free n DETAILS: Faeries are mischievous, playful, curious and sometimes scary – there is a Faerie for every emotion and they are as alien as they are strangely human. n INFO: www.torontopubliclibrary.ca, 416-395-5710

ON SCREEN n WHAT: ‘Unmasked Judeophobia’ n WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 15, 7 to 9 p.m. n WHERE: 5075 Yonge St., Suite 902 n TICKETS: $5; RSVP to Stephanie Eldridge at 416-8649735, ext. 22 or seldridge@fswc.ca n DETAILS: A film examining

anti-Jewish ideology; presented

by Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies n INFO: www.fswc.ca/ n WHAT: ‘Always San-Chome no Yuhi ‘64 (Always: Sunset on Third Street 3)’ n WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m. n WHERE: Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, 6 Garamond Ct. n TICKETS: $8 JCCC members, $10 non-members; call 416-4412345 n DETAILS: The third film in the series by Takashi Yamazaki.

Set in the year of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, this is a nostalgic visit to a youthful Japan bursting with energy and optimism. n INFO: http://jccc.on.ca

MUSIC n WHAT: Mozart Delights for Violin, Flute and Harp n WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 13, 3 p.m. n WHERE: George Weston Recital Hall, Toronto Centre for the Arts, 5040 Yonge St. n TICKETS: $94 to $107; www. ticketmaster.ca n DETAILS: Presented by Toronto Symphony Orchestra INFO: www.tocentre.com

to 9 p.m. n WHERE: Tribute Communities Recital Hall, Accolade East Building, York University, 4700 Keele St. n TICKETS: Adults $15, students and seniors $5; box office, 416736-5888 n DETAILS: A celebration of the 100th anniversary of the births of British composers Benjamin Britten and George Lloyd, and a tribute to Australian-born composer Percy Grainger with this concert of works for duo piano. n INFO: http://music.finearts. yorku.ca/news-events/events/ n WHAT: Superstars Straight from Broadway featuring Mark Cassius n WHEN: Jan. 19, 7:30 p.m. n WHERE: Studio Theatre, Toronto Centre for the Arts, 5040 Yonge St. n TICKETS: $31.50; www.ticketmaster.ca n DETAILS: Cassius’ credits range from the Original Broadway cast of Ragtime to the recent Broadway revival of Jesus Christ Superstar, and countless Stratford shows. Presented by Encore Entertainment. n INFO: www.tocentre.com

n WHAT: Music @ Midday: York University New Music Ensemble n WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 16, noon to 1 p.m. n WHERE: Martin Family Lounge, 219 Accolade East Building n ADMISSION: Free; everyone welcome. n DETAILS: The York University New Music Ensemble directed by Matt Brubeck performs an eclectic mix of new music. n INFO: jkaracs@yorku.ca, http:// music.finearts.yorku.ca/events

n WHAT: Toronto District School Board Showcase Concert n WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 29, 7:30 n WHERE: George Weston Recital Hall, Toronto Centre for the Arts, 5040 Yonge St. n DETAILS: The eleventh annual TDSB Showcase Concert will feature excellence in music education in TDSB schools, as well as the musical achievements of TDSB students that are participating in two music department enrichment and professional learning initiatives. n INFO: www.tocentre.com

n WHAT: York University Faculty Concert Series: Dorothy de Val with guest artist Charlene Biggs n WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 17, 7:30

On & Off the Wall runs monthly in The North York Mirror. If you have an arts event to share, please email the info to nym@insidetoronto.com

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The North York Mirror is delivered to 35,750 homes. Call 416-493-4400 to advertise in the #1 read newspaper in North York.

NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013 |

18

Active

North York connections abound in upcoming curling playdowns

UP IN THE AIR

Staff photo/DAN PEARCE

TIP DRILL: York Lions’ Michael Santini tries to tip the puck past Guelph Gryphons’ goalie Andrew Loverock during Ontario University Athletics hockey action Sunday at Canlan Ice Sports. The Gryphons defeated the Lions 3-1 to close out the 2012 portion of the schedule for York. The Lions next take to the ice Friday on the road against Waterloo before returning home Saturday to face Windsor.

At the High Park Curling Club, which is hosting one of four Dominion Tankard regional competitions Jan. 5 and 6, three local clubs including one from North York, will have teams competing.

North York’s Donalda Club, skipped by Peterborough native John Epping, who now lives in the Don Mills Road-Eglinton Avenue area of North York, are among the eight teams vying for two spots into the Dominion Tankard provincial championship, which is being held in Barrie Feb. 4 to 10.

Another notable local curler, North York native Greg Balsdon, who officially curls out of the Loonie Curling Club, a unique one-pad rink north of Kingston, is competing in the regional qualifier being held in the Carleton Place Curling Club just west of Ottawa. Now living in Richmond Hill, he grew up in North York, winning two provincial high school

curling titles while at Don Mills Collegiate.

Glenn Howard, curling out of Coldwater, will be the team to beat, being the seven-time Ontario Tankard champions and the defending Canadian Brier and world champs (as well as national and world champs in 2007).

■ WOMEN

Also on tap the same weekend is the Scotties Tournament of Hearts regional playdowns.

There are two regional playdowns, hosted by the Omemee Curling Club (in Kawartha Lakes) and the Woodstock Curling Club.

Two Toronto rinks are playing out of the Omemee regional: Kelly Cochrane from High Park and Jill Mouzar from Donalda.

The Scotties Tournament of Hearts will be held at the Kitchener-Waterloo Granite Club Jan. 21 to Jan. 27.

19

| NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013

NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013 |

20

City News

Catholic board holding Betting on peace at Toronto kindergarten registration council a long shot for 2013 Process for parents and guardians begins Jan. 8 A Parents wishing to register their children in kindergarten at one of the Catholic board’s 167 elementary schools in Toronto can do so starting Tuesday, Jan. 8.

The Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) invites new families with children born in 2009 to register for kindergarten.

To accommodate parents’ schedules, the board will also host evening registration sessions during the week of Jan. 14. Parents are asked to phone their local Catholic school for specific dates and times.

“Kindergarten is a time of wonder, awe and learning,” TCDSB board chair Ann Andrachuk said in a statement. “It is an exciting time for children and their families and represents a major threshold in a child’s life at a critical stage of development.”

The full-day early learning kindergarten program is set

to be fully implemented in all TCDSB schools by 20152016.

During its first year of implementation in 2010, the province funded 63 full-day classrooms for 1,638 students in 28 schools across the TCDSB. Now in its third year of implementation, the board offers the program in 199 classrooms, serving 5,714 students in 83 schools.

“We are dedicated to nurturing our students spiritually, academically, physically, socially, and emotionally through a faith-based curriculum in a caring, Catholic environment,” TCDSB director of education Bruce Rodrigues said in a statement.

“This is a critical period when a child has the highest capacity to learn that will impact positively on their future participation in society.”

The TCDSB also offers a number of specialized kinder-

garten services: the kindergarten intervention and needs program (KIND) is provided for students who are having difficulty adjusting to school and supports a child’s ability to follow classroom routines, develop social skills, and strengthen academic abilities; the kindergarten language program delivers intensive language and literacy support to students in senior kindergarten who have delayed oral language development.

Parents or guardians are required to bring the following documents: the child’s birth certificate (Certificate of Citizenship or Landed Immigrant Status); the child’s Catholic baptismal certificate (or other proof of Catholicity); the child’s Ontario health card and Immunization Record; proof of residency in Toronto.

For more information, call 416-222-8282, ext. 5314 or go to www.tcdsb.org

mid all the handwringing about vacant mayors’ offices and crumbling highways, one might be forgiven for missing one of the most reliable news stories of the winter months. Toronto is making a budget, and over the next few weeks, will be performing the final pieces of the ritual to make it complete.

Late last year, the city’s budget committee finished their tinkering with the $9.4-billion budget. It was (and remains) a plan designed to attract a minimum of tinkering at council.

Budget chief Mike Del Grande moved at the end of the process to increase property taxes a sliver more than the original proposal had intended – they’re going up two per cent rather than 1.95 per cent – and allocated the $1.15 million to restore services in areas where citizens had made what he considered a good case.

That didn’t happen last year, and when the budget proceeded to council, councillors tore it to pieces and rebuilt it – $15 million fatter – pulling

money from reserves to do so. Del Grande doesn’t want to see that happen again this year; so much so that he’s vowed to quit if council does anything else with the plan he’s presented.

Some of his colleagues have snickeringly suggested this might be an excellent way to find themselves a new budget chief.

But really, the budget going forward will be difficult to make changes on. The budget cuts firefighter positions, and as a policy move council might reverse that.

Similarly, the trimmed police service budget approved by the Toronto Police Services Board and scorned by Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair might get another look.

Council could look at restoring money to child care, homeless shelters and other pieces of social infrastructure.

And there are some on council, like Parkdale-High Park Councillor Gord Perks, who are concerned the city is paying too much cash for capital projects such as road work, comparing the move to buying a house with all

THE CITY

david nickle

the money up front.

Mayor Rob Ford (because he’s the kind of mayor he is) might, if still in office by the time the budget’s debated mid-January, take issue with that property tax hike.

And on the matter of the Gardiner Expressway, the budget debate could take an off-ramp into a long discussion over whether it’s worth the $500 million the capital budget’s allocated over the next decade to repairs to the elevated highway, or to just go down the road the last council started on, to tear a large portion of it down.

But is council going to come together, as it did around Eglinton-Lawrence Councillor Josh Colle last year, and actually change any of these things?

Nobody ever made any money betting on peace at Toronto Council, and I won’t now.

But it’s going to take a pretty significant effort by Ford opponents to get under the hood of the 2013 budget and make serious changes. n David Nickle is The Mirror’s city hall columnist. His column appears every Thursday. Contact him at dnickle@insidetoronto.com

21

| NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013

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Toronto Community News has an area available for distribution of our TCN News Bags. Deliveries consist of picking up our pre-inserted flyer packages (TCN News Bags) and distribute them to addresses within an area/zone in the lobbies of an apartment building in the Etobicoke area.

Area’s available: M9A, M9P, M9R, M9W, M9V (Approximately 186 drops & 27,607 TCN News Bags) Contracts commence on Sunday January 20, 2013 To apply for this area and submit your pricing, please come to our office and fill out a bid package. A vehicle is required for this distribution.

Bid packages are available at reception at 175 Gordon Baker Road Toronto, ON M2H 0A2 Tender due: Wednesday January 14th by 5pm To the attention of Julie Montgomery Distribution Department Lowest or any bid not necessarily accepted

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| NORTH YORK MIRROR | Thursday, January 3, 2013

General Help

NORTH YORK MIRROR s | Thursday, January 3, 2013 |

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“Happy New Year”

Wishing All Our Families, Friends & Clients A Very Healthy & Joyous 2013.

Thank You For All Your Support Throughout The Years.

A donation has been made to Sick Kids Hospital, Breast Cancer Society and Local Community Schools, on behalf of the proceeds from our annual sales.

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r ouere Y t Lisme H013 Ho or 2 F

#28 in TOP Teams in Canada for the Third Quarter in 2012

#28 in Canada!

For Free Consulting You Can Contact Us At: 647.296.6945 ������ �

416.939.3003 647.296.6945

We speak Farsi, Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese and English Interior Designer

Developer

Eli Bakhtiari, Sales Representative

Bella Lee, Broker

647.296.6945

416.939.3003