December 05 by The Parkdale Villager

THE ISHING DEMOL BRIDGE /3 RIN molition DU FFE Bridge de

Serving RONCESVALLES, TRINITYBELLWOODS, and LIBERTY VILLAGE

in Street e Duffer Insidegiveth

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in ment used rin of equip Duffe The list ition of the the demol included: Street Bridge

ATORS 8 EXCAV TS 7 BOBCA ES 2 CRAN LIFTS 4 MAN ERS 2 SWEEP-END LOADER S 1 FRONT M DUMP TRUCK 5 TANDE ERS RS 4 SHEAR JACKHAMME 9 GIANT LIGHTS R ATORS 6 TOWE RICAL GENER 5 ELECT the ELD away from ERIN HATFI idetoronto.com hauled Debris earehatfield@ins T bridge : ing a 100-y struct rail ETE AT ABOU e-con over a 48 ADS OF CONCR old bridgein the span of the s LO s a load BOUT corridor feat. But, for li15 tonne ASPHALT AT A ADS OF small demo no the s LO load hours is involved in a Bridge, F STEEL tonnes TONS O engineers Dufferin Streetducing s TO the alin-in a tion of adren N was completion the job OGER CULLMA successful Photo/R and its ay mark. lition ues Saturde, high waterafter the demo contin was Bridg Hours Demolition rin Street rea, rin bridge to Duffe ed down to Transit’s of the Duffe Michael D’And The on the city’s spans GO Rail Corridor. it was dropp likens completed,director of theruction which West City of ing. Once a sight Atkins massive executive the and Const , a Lakeshore of a larger involves track level,a ship sink, part Atkins that cut into Engineering work is project and Jodie the City of watching d girder was removed. rin Street with ger Services, be Toronto-led t mana the Duffe underpass. 100-year-olin order to engineer senior and the projec were still was heartreplacing Expressway five pieces eers that pedestrian bridge, Toronto joked. Gardiner rary modular and “For engin Dufferin of a job well done. D’Andrea old and for the A tempo be installed moment breaking,” the high red years will Two tempo proud riding on bridge by Saturday. a pretty “One hunded up.” near d the tracks Atkins es to carry to “It was opene d to a site ted opened lar bridg ing,” being chopp was haule e overpass s when weMonday morn rary modutraffic are expec Debri ary. lar it can an Avenu time on vehicu led by Febru the clock than the Strachwill be held until around lete said. it be instal ed. More be worked to comp where Crews and recycl ial will Sunday D lition. be sorted of the mater ay and RIN HATFIEL Saturd sensitive demoof 15 to 20 cent mining. said. 80 per Staff photo/E used in something the pair removed the time- 12-hour shifts shift plus monly drop those recycled, then plates “You can heavy onto the rails They ran workers per – contracThe crane and steel e ously GOES INTOA BRIDG E cmats damage swept and demolitionother peopl enorm WHAT it won’t “It doesn’t 20 eers, inspe the blast tracks were DOWN of time at least the Monday ng said. mats and TEAR ING time. gers, engin window there before 5 a.m. Atkins a rail and ,” an By short ge runni is tors, manasite at any given the ch below of lition, that that to dama a one-in is inspected.the trains were Mindful lete the demo We know tors – on type of bridge use of its take much deviation, derail a for planning the morning to comp ive advance “This by al (beca such connectivity the any minorin a rail, can of ct both eering extens ely unusu again. ion proje was important and THE extrem the demolition it has the deviat engin large girdTION OF residents been know went into the external agents on ce age) and train.” had three on each the local CONS TRUC Y BRIDG ES the city has ure, I don’tin this provin city, with acted as their al contraclete The bridgebeams), one a struct of . So that taken TEMP ORAR ort s into middle lition comp firm that t, and the gener ntractor, get go to businesses said. been under lar bridge ning ers (supp one down the Atkins from the access. With demo time frameof its subco this team the projec three modu two remai before,” a very tight side and . So the task thing a lot a priority Don and will drop to ng with en those tor Ellis Murray. “It was pedestrian D’Andrea the bridgeto remove everygirders. rns was were worki place betwe maintain are simiQuantum the key conce the – Michael and we had was two exterior started girders. said these units by the wns.” contractors and in One of rail tracks under the was used unkno being ed except its ay work t the bridge Algonquin D’Andrea deck. material over the protec The city, of people involvbridge Bailey On Saturd concrete by alks portion unsafe. from thebeams and con- to s rin lar to a Constructed bridges are e the the sidew bridge ed after the the dozen g the Duffe removed down both to remov ete on orary in June or was deem over the 20 years They military. removed, was cascading task, “The concr ed about lt to demolishin the temp two pieces. demolition. be rail corrid the huge that runs the tracks replac in Bridge in the crete that during the the tracks finished and cleared ricated giant truck and had beenwas quite difficu The bridge constructed be t a.m. on level prefab a pretty new liit in place protec was to track on so was to put ner it the debrisjust before 1:30 the demo need ago Gardi will arrivetogether then it,” Atkins Preparing before the trains because did not for trains a half hour before remove reinforcing in weeks when the 1950s and time. fastened s were started will be Monday, completion there is ight, crane. cut and had timbers replaced. with a both bridge s were trian bridge e of in 2016 tion, overn ng. Large the tracks scheduled impressive, said. explained.and eye beam Although runni struction The pedesthe next coupl side weren’t “It’s quite D’Andrea in for recon ng temporary north and Rebar s led along nding the slated moments ion,” by the installed top shearer. with the beams, in the were instal d surrou is erecti traffic and pedes no quest some tense the bigfollowed with a s early left with the groun lete the city girder weeks, bridge but so the “We had be level s to carry city can comp They were neath the was y the would bridge weekend, and southbound which under the tracks to ments out. Finall over the nge for us, ve steel that run trians until tal assess new year. itself, wasdo were taken cut and lifted of the track. night massi fully recon gest challe in and of which were was d to y morn Friday for the environmen feat On a thick, neede girder folplans Sunda ch we rs, quite centre a crane on one-in draw up bridges. all that ur window.” lete the plates, of the timbe h mats it squeeze out with on top structed to safely compWest rail that 48-ho the surface , placed blast mats, 12-inc comwithin hore from In order tires bridge by neath the GO Lakes lowed Althoughbe one single bridges: of old truck work, thethat runs under to two made out letely shut appears is actually corridor be comp corridor ner had to the bridgeover the rail Gardi bridge one runssecond over the down. and the . e was closed Expressway rin Bridg The Duffe

Engineers ount acc detailed down r of the tea

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MP Peggy Nash takes a bike ride / 6

ERIN HATFIELD ehatfield@insidetoronto.com

Friends of High Park Zoo ask city to create partnership / 12

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TOURNAMENT ACTION: Salvador Vaughan moves the puck for the Parkdale Flames Flyers during their atom-division game against the Barrie Colts Sunday morning in the Parkdale Flames William Reynolds hockey tournament. Parkdale won 8 to 5.

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ERIN HATFIELD ehatfield@insidetoronto.com Cantate means “sing a long” in Latin and this Christmas season the congregation at St. Anne’s Anglican Church are looking to join their voices with the broader neighbourhood in support of a local scholarship. The church at 270 Gladstone

Avenue will present Cantate, an afternoon of entertainment featuring singing and dancing on Sunday at 2 p.m. But this program isn’t just intended for the congregants of the 150-year-old church at Dufferin and Dundas, explained Rev. Gary van der Meer, it is for the entire community. “At St. Anne’s what we had

Chander Chaddah *As recognized by the Superior Court of Ontario

been recognizing over the past year was a real desire to connect more deeply with the neighbourhood,” he said. The church leaders started to visit community organizations and introduced themselves, which led them to the Toronto Police 14 Division and its Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC).

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The CPLC hosts a monthly meeting that brings together residents’ associations, business improvement areas, and community organizations, which van der Meer attended. This is where they learned the 14 Division CPLC raises funds for a Community Safety Scholarship which is administered through >>>CANTATE, page 13

There are more than 3,000 Tim Hortons restaurants across this country, but not everyone is happy to hear one is opening on Roncesvalles Avenue. Renovations are underway at 175 Roncesvalles Ave., formerly Granowska’s, at the corner of Fern Avenue and a new Tim Hortons will open there Dec. 19. It will employ 35 people, seat 18 customers and operate from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. A number of Roncesvalles Village residents are opposed to their soon-to-be neighbour. The city’s zoning allows for a coffee shop at this location and the city has no authority to dictate whether the operator is independent or a franchisee, but in order to open dialogue between residents and Tim Hortons a community meeting was held recently. The meeting, hosted by Parkdale-High Park City Councillor Gord Perks, included representatives from Tim Hortons as well as the franchisees of this particular location, Gaurav and Ashima Vij. Bob Edwards, director of operations GTA at Tim Hortons, told residents the company is looking forward to being a part of the Roncesvalles Village community. >>>TIM, page 11

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THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013 |

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Metrolinx announces completion of Strachan Overpass renovation RAHUL GUPTA rgupta@insidetoronto.com Metrolinx announced it has completed work on the overpass at Strachan Avenue to separate trains travelling along the GO Georgetown South rail corridor from local traffic. With the work done, GO, VIA and CN freight trains now travel below the avenue in a 1.4 kilometre trench

between King Street and Bathurst Street, away from cars, pedestrians and cyclists, said Metrolinx spokesperson Vanessa Thomas. “With the removal of this level crossing, train service will now operate in the lowered rail corridor, allowing unimpeded and improved traffic flow of vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians as trains pass under Strachan Avenue,” said Thomas in an email.

“Members of the public no longer need to wait for a train to pass before advancing.” The Strachan overpass construction is part of a series of rail separations planned along the Georgetown South corridor, to be completed before the Union Pearson (UP) Express air rail link begins service in 2015. As part of the work the tracks were lowered as much as eight metres below Strachan, which

in turn was raised around two metres. The new-look overpass sports a “teardrop lattice design” in the arrangement of design struts covering the rail track, which was chosen by residents in 2011 as part of community consultations organized by Metrolinx, said Thomas. Courtesy/METROLINX

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Inside the Dufferin Street Bridge demolition Engineers give detailed account of the tear down

by the numbers The list of equipment used in the demolition of the Dufferin Street Bridge included: 8 EXCAVATORS 7 BOBCATS 2 CRANES 4 MAN LIFTS 2 SWEEPERS 1 FRONT-END LOADER 5 TANDEM DUMP TRUCKS 4 SHEARERS 9 GIANT JACKHAMMERS 6 TOWER LIGHTS 5 ELECTRICAL GENERATORS

ERIN HATFIELD ehatfield@insidetoronto.com

e-constructing a 100-yearold bridge over a rail corridor in the span of 48 hours is no small feat. But, for the engineers involved in the demolition of the Dufferin Street Bridge, the job was adrenalin-inducing and its successful completion a high watermark. Hours after the demolition of the Dufferin bridge was completed, Michael D’Andrea, executive director of the city’s Engineering and Construction Services, and Jodie Atkins, a senior engineer with the City of Toronto and the project manager for the Dufferin bridge, were still riding the high of a job well done. “It was a pretty proud moment when we opened the tracks on time on Monday morning,” Atkins said. Crews worked around the clock Saturday and Sunday to complete the time-sensitive demolition. They ran 12-hour shifts of 15 to 20 demolition workers per shift plus at least 20 other people – contractors, managers, engineers, inspectors – on site at any given time. “This type of bridge is extremely unusual (because of its age) and the demolition of such a structure, I don’t know it has been undertaken in this province before,” Atkins said. “It was a very tight time frame and we were working with a lot of unknowns.” The city, its contractors and the dozens of people involved in demolishing the Dufferin bridge finished the huge task, removed the debris and cleared the tracks for trains just before 1:30 a.m. on Monday, a half hour before the scheduled completion time. “It’s quite impressive, there is no question,” D’Andrea said. “We had some tense moments over the weekend, but the biggest challenge for us, which was quite a feat in and of itself, was to squeeze all that we needed to do within that 48-hour window.” Although from the surface it appears to be one single bridge, the bridge is actually two bridges: one runs over the rail corridor and the second over the Gardiner Expressway. The Dufferin Bridge was closed

Debris hauled away from the bridge:

Photo/ROGER CULLMAN

“

Staff photo/ERIN HATFIELD

We know that is an important connectivity for the local residents and the businesses. So that has been a priority from the get go to maintain pedestrian access. – Michael D’Andrea

in June after the portion over the rail corridor was deemed unsafe. The bridge that runs over the Gardiner was constructed in the 1950s and did not need to be replaced. Although both bridges were slated for reconstruction in 2016 the city is erecting temporary bridges to carry traffic and pedestrians until the city can complete environmental assessments and draw up plans for the fully reconstructed bridges. In order to safely complete the work, the GO Lakeshore West rail corridor that runs underneath the bridge had to be completely shut down.

goes into tearing down a bridge wWhat Mindful of the short window of time to complete the demolition, there was extensive advance planning that went into the project both by the city, with the external engineering firm that acted as their agents on the project, and the general contractor Ellis Don and its subcontractor, Quantum Murray. One of the key concerns was to protect the rail tracks under the bridge from the material being removed, both beams and concrete that was cascading down to track level during the demolition. Preparing to protect the tracks started weeks before the demolition, overnight, when the trains weren’t running. Large timbers were installed alongside the tracks so the ground surrounding the tracks would be level with the top of the track. On Friday night massive steel plates, one-inch thick, were placed on top of the timbers, followed by blast mats, 12-inch mats made out of old truck tires com-

Demolition continues Saturday on the Dufferin Street Bridge, which spans GO Transit’s Lakeshore West Rail Corridor. The work is part of a larger City of Toronto-led project that involves replacing the Dufferin Street Gardiner Expressway underpass. A temporary modular pedestrian bridge will be installed and opened by Saturday. Two temporary modular bridges to carry vehicular traffic are expected to be installed by February.

monly used in mining. “You can drop something enormously heavy onto those mats and it won’t damage the rails below,” Atkins said. “It doesn’t take much to damage a rail and any minor deviation, a one-inch deviation in a rail, can derail a train.” The bridge had three large girders (support beams), one on each side and one down the middle of the bridge. So the task this team had was to remove everything except the two exterior girders. On Saturday work was started to remove the concrete deck. “The concrete on the sidewalks had been replaced about 20 years ago so it was quite difficult to remove because it was pretty new and had reinforcing in it,” Atkins explained. Rebar and eye beams were cut with a shearer. They were left with the beams that run underneath the girders, which were taken out. Finally the centre girder was cut and lifted out with a crane on Sunday morn-

• 62 loads of concrete at about 15 tonnes a load • 12 loads of asphalt at about 10 tonnes a load • 100 to 150 tons of steel

For more photos of the Dufferin Bridge demolition visit us online at http://bit.ly/1eSBs2M

ing. Once it was dropped down to track level, a sight Atkins likens to watching a ship sink, the massive 100-year-old girder was cut into five pieces in order to be removed. “For engineers that was heartbreaking,” D’Andrea joked. “One hundred years old and being chopped up.” Debris was hauled to a site near the Strachan Avenue overpass where it will be held until it can be sorted and recycled. More than 80 per cent of the material will be recycled, the pair said. The crane then removed the blast mats and steel plates before the tracks were swept and inspected. By 5 a.m. Monday morning the trains were running again. of the temporary bridges wConstruction

With demolition complete the city will drop three modular bridges into place between those two remaining girders. D’Andrea said these units are similar to a Bailey bridge used by the military. Constructed by Algonquin Bridge the temporary bridges are prefabricated in two pieces. They will arrive on a giant truck and be fastened together then put in place with a crane. The pedestrian bridge will be installed in the next couple of weeks, followed by the north and southbound bridges early in the new year.

| THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013

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THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013 |

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Write us The Parkdale 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 Parkdale Villager, 175 Gordon Baker Rd. Toronto, ON, M2H 0A2.

t may be an obvious point to say our children are our future, but it’s one that bears repeating so that we do what’s necessary to ensure the youth of today are prepared for tomorrow’s challenges. Just this week, two opportunities came to light for organizations and businesses to play an influential role in the lives of our city’s youth. In helping remove obstacles to success, and providing critical work experience, we can create positive connections to a city they may one day help define. Though it’s December, it’s already time to think about summer job opportunities. Giving a student a summer job is a great way to get them on the road to one day contributing to our city’s economic growth and stability. They need a solid foundation of work experience to build upon. Local who want to open that our view companies door for them can do so with the of a Canada Summer Jobs Students need help grant – but they need to apply now. solid work The federal government makes foundation it easy to create new positions for summer students, with non-profit organizations eligible for up to 100 per cent coverage of the minimum hourly wage and private companies eligible for up to 50 per cent of the same wage. Be the difference in a student’s life that gets them closer to achieving their full potential. It’s an unforgiving job market, so any work experience and mentoring opportunities your company can offer may be the one thing that secures them gainful employment after they have finished their education. The Ontario Trillium Foundation also recently announced a $5 million/year grants program to give community organizations the power to improve outcomes for youth facing multiple barriers to economic and social well-being. Called the Youth Opportunities Fund, it will provide grants to grassroots, youth-led and community-based organizations to create programs that will engage and benefit young people aged 12 to 25 who are marginalized, who are at-risk or in trouble with the law, have experience in child welfare services, come from a low-income situation, and/or have dropped out of school. Equal opportunity, regardless of background or socio-economic circumstance, is the least our city’s youth deserve. The application deadline for both programs is in January. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/IpuDdD and http://bit.ly/X68xZ

column

Rob Ford’s ‘outsider’ game is getting old

n Tuesday morning, Mayor Ford arrived – late – for the kickoff of the Mayor’s Annual Christmas Toy Drive. It was OK, though; the only people kept waiting were a few television cameras and reporters, some city staff and the city manager. In other years, there were children at the launch, and the mayor would crouch down and chat with them as they played with toys. This time, a city spokesperson said protocol staff made the call to not have children because of “scheduling” issues – it was awfully close to lunchtime – and because of the crush of cameras. If anyone was concerned about the lesson sent, having small children photographed with an admitted illegal drug user...well, no one was saying. About an hour later, Deputy Mayor Norm Kelly emerged from a meeting with Ontario Premier

david nickle the city Kathleen Wynne, where they spoke about matters of transit and housing and other topics of mutual interest. Mayor Ford was not invited, an omission which Wynne explained succinctly: “I’m meeting with the deputy mayor because he is the representative of Toronto City Council.” It’s hard to argue otherwise. Mayor Ford and his brother Doug characterized council’s startling repudiation of the mayor as a “coup d’etat.” It’s not quite that – the mayor’s still the mayor, after all, and the only tank that has moved at city hall is a fish tank, from the deputy mayor’s office to the mayor’s. But it is in real terms a vote of non-confidence, as councillors have

“

There is a fine line between an outsider and a truant, a critic and a vandal, an aggrieved suburban hero and a child in a tantrum. The Fords are crossing that line.....

taken back all the powers that were theirs to give. The mayor and his brother do not appear keen to regain that confidence. Doug Ford spent the first part of the week in budget committee continuing to embellish last week’s allegation that city staff have conspired with a rogue council, to primp up the 2014 budget with wasteful spending and unnecessary tax increases. As for Mayor Ford – in addition to showing up late to one of the few events that are within his more limited purview, he’s so

far snubbed any attempts by Deputy Mayor Kelly to meet and discuss the way forward in the new order of things. Immediately following the non-confidence vote, this strategy might have seemed a winning one. Ford won in 2010 as council’s ultimate outsider, so now that he’s been thrown out, why not play the outsider again? It’s starting to become clear, however, that that game is already a little old. There is a fine line between an outsider and a truant, a critic and a vandal, an aggrieved suburban hero and a child in a tantrum. The Fords are crossing that line; while council, for the first time in three years really, has freed itself to behave like the mature level of government that Torontonians might at one time have expected.

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

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| THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013

THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013 |

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Samuel Perry, left, and Laura Pin, right, from the Cycle Toronto Ward Advocacy Program, get set to give Parkdale-High Park MP Peggy Nash a tour of Wards 13 and 14.

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ERIN HATFIELD ehatfield@insidetoronto.com On a sunny Friday afternoon in November, Peggy Nash, MP for Parkdale-High Park, got on her bike and set out to tour the riding with two west-end cycling advocates. Laura Pin and Samuel Perry are Cycle Toronto Ward Advocacy Program captains for Ward 14 and Ward 13, respectively. On Friday Nov. 15, they held a mobile meeting with Nash to show her first-hand the successful cycling infrastructure and also the cycling failures in the area. “I think it is a really powerful thing to get someone out on a bike and experience all of the challenges about cycling in Toronto and also the sheer joy of it,” Pin said. Cycle Toronto is a memberbased cycle advocacy group, with 22 wards across the city actively represented, Pin explained. Funded through membership fees and some grants, Cycle Toronto advocates for a healthy, safe, cycling-friendly city. With the caveat that local cycling issues are not within the federal representative’s jurisdiction, the pair pointed out safety issues and concerns for cyclists along the way. “We tried to work in the spots where a lot of people in the area cycle and the spots that have some really good infrastructure and some places that are kind of tricky,” said Pin, a Parkdale resident

“

There are so many cyclists, yet very little infrastructure. – Laura Pin

and year-round cyclist. The pair took Nash on a bike tour of Parkdale-High Park, from Bloor Street West, down Roncesvalles to Queen Street West and up Sorauren Avenue, along the West Toronto Railpath and down Lansdowne Avenue. “According to the 2006 census data, Ward 14 actually has the second highest proportion of cyclists and pedestrian commuters in the city with 26 per cent who either cycle or walk to work,” Pin said. “There are so many cyclists, yet very little infrastructure.” They talked about the feasibility of bike lanes on Bloor Street West, problems with cars parking too close to the bump outs on Roncesvalles Avenue. They also pointed out Queen Street streetcar tracks and the difficulty for cyclists to turn over them and the need to expand the West Toronto Railpath. The pair also had some specific advocacy goals they brought up during the trip: a national cycling strategy to set direction for municipalities and provide funds; and, secondly, side guards on trucks. “Direction from different

levels of government saying ‘this is important’ can have a really big impact,” Pin said. “Other countries that are serious about cycling – the UK and Australia – are developing national strategies or already have them.” Queen’s Park and Ottawa should also be providing support in the form of money and promotion of urban cycling, said Perry. “The municipalities are doing the best that they can, but they are not getting support from the province and the federal level of government.” Perry lives in the Junction and said he believes the bike is by far the best way to get around areas the size of your typical federal riding. However there are safety measures that should be in place, that are not, he added. “The case with Lansdowne (Avenue) is it has actually had bike lanes approved by city council, but they have not been installed,” Perry said. “So we wanted to highlight how unsafe it is to bike on it now.” Nash does use a bicycle to get around sometimes, but she did see some things and places she hadn’t and with the information and insight she received Nash said she plans to speak with NDP transportation critic Olivia Chow to discuss a national biking strategy.

Check out Cycle Toronto at http://cycleto.ca/

REAL ESTATE

The Babiak Team Sells The West End! $1,149,000 • 171 Indian Rd. Just Listed! Pristine 3 storey Roncesvalles Edwardian w/ original details intact, 12 rms, almost 3,500’ and 9’ ceilings. Mint wainscoting, leaded & stained glass in abundance, garage & private drive. OH Sat/Sun 2-4

OPEN HOUSE SAT & SUN 2-4 PM

Theodore Babiak Broker

Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage

$549,000 • 41 Magwood Crt. New Listing! Humber Valley Bright open plan 3 bdrm w/ updated heating, AC & mainly newer windows. Beautifully landscaped garden w/ south exposure. Terrific family neighbourhood nr Humber River walking & cycling trails. Wide lot, garage & private drive. OH Sat/Sun 2-4

visit babiak.com for photos, floor plans, feature sheets & home inspections

OPEN HOUSE SUN 2-4 PM

ROSE KUTZKO Broker

416 453-7673 thepropertyteam.com rose@torontorose.com

Re/Max Professionals Inc., Brokerage

Independently Owned and Operated

Christmas Comes Early in The Junction! This lovely renovated, updated and spacious home features all the charm of the Victorian with designer décor throughout. 9’ ceilings, crown mouldings, stained glass, hardwood flooring, and generous room sizes. Main floor laundry, oversized kitchen, 2-pc powder room, updated mechanics, fabulous large garage with loft storage, laneway access, private and enclosed yard with deck. Steps to The Junction amenities and TTC. Please call us at 416.807.4149 for your personal viewing $649,900.

66 MCMURRAY AVENUE

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416 762 8255 NATIONAL CHAIRMAN’S CLUB

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Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage

250 SCARLETT RD #1513 BUZZ 302 Stunning view! Rare floor plan for this 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo with ensuite, laundry and 2 parking spaces. MLS# W2791453 Asking $324,900

Open House

December 7-8 2pm - 4pm virtual tour at agentmikeG.com

162 Fern Avenue

$649,900

warm, bright and spacious, tastefully renovated turnkey home in the heart of Roncesvalles Village great neighbourhood, even better neighbours! 3 bedrooms, lane parking new windows, high efficiency heating and air conditioning

mike Gryspeerdt Keller Williams Neighbourhood Realty, Brokerage Independently owned and operated Not intended to solicit anyone already under contract

sales representative

direct: 416-876-0321 office: 416-236-1392 m@agentmikeG.com

Thinking of Buying or Selling? An agent that advertises in your local Real Estate section is always a wise choice.

For advertising information please call:

416-493-4400

Your Toronto Home Resource Specializing in Parkdale, Roncesvalles and High Park tel 416-530-1100 cell 416-788-1823 SALES REPRESENTATIVE, BOSLEY REAL ESTATE LTD., BROKERAGE

www.kimkehoe.com

| THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013

The Parkdale Liberty Villager is delivered to 24,650 homes. Call 416-493-4400 to advertise in the #1 read newspaper in Parkdale.

THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013 |

Frank Leo

PROVEN RESULTS!!! OVER 1.5 ACRES IN PRESTIGIOUS EDGEHILL GARDENS!! Spectacular Stone Mansion in ultra private setting, one of Toronto’s finest neighbourhoods. Fabulous country living in the city, multiple walkouts,pool complex with gazebo,fresh water pond,tennis courts,master retreat,simply stunning.Incredible 690’ depth with access from cul-de-sac great potential for future development. One of a kind jewel, please contact Frank Leo for any questions. $6,300,000

SPECTACULAR LUXURY ESTATE!

Incredible Royal York/Edenbridge 5bdrm 2 storey on beautifully landscaped 100’ x 210’ ravine lot. Resort-like terraced back garden, waterfall pond, gazebo and in-ground pool. Gorgeous 2 storey foyer, fabulous gourmet kitchen, main floor billiard room w/English style bar, Stunning 2 storey family rm with huge custom library wall and ladder rail. Spacious large lower level rec. rm with w/o absolutely a must see $2,399,900!!

BROKER Sponsor of

Children’s Miracle Network & Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation

ROYAL YORK / NORSEMAN Custom built 4 + 2 bdrm 2 storey with addition, gorgeous renovated kitchen & baths, granite counter tops, gleaming hardwood floor, 4 full baths, main floor. Family room & den, 2nd floor laundry, finished basement with separate entrance, quality craftsmanship through-out, thousands spent must be seen for $1,100,000

#1 in West and Central Toronto combined by units of listings sold for all Companies of all Brokers & Sales Representatives 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 according to a study of MLS data prepared by an independent auditor of real estate statistics.

INCREDIBLE CUSTOM BUILT BEAUTY!! Stunning renovated 3+1bdrm 2 storey, in high demand south Etobicoke, just steps to the Lake, Parks, schools, shops, & all conveniences. Spectacular ultra luxury modern finishes thru-out, custom gourmet kitchen,granite countertop, S S appl, main flr family & laundry rm, 4 amazing full washrooms, master with 5 pc ensuite & w/o to balcony, coffered ceiling, waterfall detached double garage and much more, must be seen for $949,900!!

BRAND NEW CUSTOM BUILT!! Gorgeous detached 2 storey luxury Ashbury Victoria homes, in the high demand Long Branch area. Master craftsmanship and quality finishes thru- out truly must be seen, located close to all amenities, just minutes to down town Toronto for only $808,000!!

WEST REALTY INC., Brokerage Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

GORGEOUS RENOVATED RAISED BUNGALOW W/O BSMNT!! Situated on a quiet Court, 234’ deep Ravine lot. Totally renovated custom gourmet kitchen, Quartz countertop, stainless steel appliances, Large open concept layout, sunken living rm, formal dining rm, circular staircase, spacious family rm with w/o to patio overlooking ravine, fabulous neighborhood, close to all conveniences only $859,000!!

FREE Confidential Home Evaluations Call Today And Start Packing!!!

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• Get up to $10,000 no interest for 60 days* • Total service guarantee in writing • Your Home Sold in 90 Days, or I’ll Buy it* • Competitive Rates, Exceptional service • Award Winning Results!

“The Name Friends Trust & Recommend” Experience and Service you can count on!! ER H T O N A LD SO PRESTIGIOUS COURT LOCATION!!

Central Etobicoke, Luxury 4 bedroom, 2 Storey situated on a premium pie shaped lot. Fabulous center hall plan with circular staircase. Spectacular kitchen with built in appliances and granite counter top. Large principal rooms, master retreat, finished basement, thousand spent on upgrades. The home you have been waiting for only $1,199,900!!

SPECTACULAR RENOVATED 2 STOREY!!

High demand location, quiet crescent, on a premium lot. Gorgeous 4 bedroom Green Park Built, new gourmet kitchen granite countertop, stainless steel appliances, renovated bathrooms, main floor family room, thousands spent to make this home stand out circular stairs, amazing value only $669,000

LARGE DETACHED 2 STOREY!!

Located in the beautiful town of Erin, great property, large home with spacious principal rooms, plenty of room for large family or potential to generate revenue. Parking for 6 cars, in-ground pool and hot tub, plus many extras, close to all amenities in town, great value for $489,000!!

CUSTOM BUILT RAISED BUNGALOW!!

Large 3 bedroom home in the picturesque town of Lefroy, just North of Bradford. Renovated eatin kitchen, W/O to deck, spacious open concept living & dining room, laminate floors thru-out, large private fenced lot, steps to Killarney Beach, and Lake must be seen for only $349,900!!

COLLEGE/ GRACE!!

Detached brick 2 ½ storey, 5 bedroom in spectacular little Italy spacious living room, formal dining rm, family size kitchen, 2 stair cases to 2nd floor, 3 full bathrooms, separate entrance to bsmnt, ideal for entertaining or possible in-law suite. 3 car parking, high demand nieghbourhood. SOLD IN 1WK FOR 131%OF ASKING!!!

RENOVATED 2 STOREY GEM!!

Fabulous Woodbridge 4 bedroom. Large foyer with circular staircase, renovated kitchen, granite countertop, open concept family room with fireplace, sunroom addition, main floor den, finished basement with 2nd kitchen, ideal for entertaining or in-law suite, steps to school only $649,900

BEAUTIFUL BUNGALOW!! Situated on a quiet cul de sac, premium 50’ lot, gorgeous landscaping brings out its beauty, large patio & pond, renovated kitchen, 3 bdrms, spacious principal rooms, and separate entrance to 2 bdrm in-law suite for only $479,900!!

DETACHED BUNGALOW ON 50’ LOT!!

Situated on a quiet Brampton crescent close to amenities, renovated kitchen, open concept living & dining room, crown moulding, hardwood floor, separate entrance to basement In-law suite, long private drive, only $349,900!!

CALL

416

SPECTACULAR LOT!! Sprawling Ranch Bungalow on an amazing 108’ x 162’ lot. Open concept living & dining rm, eat in kitchen, separate entrance to bsmnt, double garage, long private drive, interlock patio and much more for only $799,900!!

MAPLE LEAF / KEELE!!

Detached 3+1bdrm, brick bungalow, situated on a premium 50’ lot, in fabulous neighborhood. Large open concept living and dining rm, hardwood floor, separate side entrance to finished bsmnt, ideal for entertaining or in-law suite, thousands spent must be seen. Super Value only $599,900!!

ISLINGTON & NORSEMAN!!

Fabulous Ranch style bungalow in high demand south Etobicoke area. Wide 53’ lot, with concrete double drive, well maintained property, 3+1 bedrooms, 2 kitchens, 2 full baths, separate in-law with 2 entrances, large verandah, deck and interlock patio, new roof (2007), thermal Windows and many extras for $699,000!!

CORSO ITALIA, AMAZING VALUE!!

Detached 3 bedroom, 2 Storey in high demand location. Gorgeous original wood, formal dining room, spacious living room, family size kitchen, detached double garage, walk to amenities, spectacular opportunity only $599,900!!

ER ANOTLHD SO

SOUTH BEACH LUXURY CONDO!! Trendy 2+1 bdrm, with 2 wshrms, & gorgeous wrap around terrace, floor to ceiling windows, incredible resort style living with indoor /outdoor pool, fitness room, yoga studio, basket ball court, pet day care, 24 hr concierge, and much more.

Detached 3+1bdrm brick home on a quiet crescent, in demand location, updated modern kitchen, open concept living & dining room. Separate entrance to finished basement, gorgeous backyard retreat, huge tiered deck, hot tub, interlock, garage and much more for only.

SCARLETT & EGLINTON!! Incredible 3 bedroom suite, opportunity knocks, great location, well maintained, spacious layout, parquet floors throughout, 2 full washrooms, ensuite laundry, and all amenities, located close to TTC, parks, golf course and all conveniences only $299,000!!

Amazing opportunity, 2 bedroom suite split bedroom plan, 10’ ceilings, huge balcony 2 w/o, fabulous amenities include concierge, gym, aerobics, squash, sauna and outdoor pool, steps to lake, waterfront trails, and all conveniences, just minutes to downtown Toronto. Live the life for only $295,000!!

SOLD FOR TOP $$$!!!

917

“WOW” AMAZING VALUE!!

SOLD IN 1WK FOR 113% OF ASKING!!!

THE TIDES AT MYSTIC POINTE!!

PREMIER PROPERTY!!

Pristine large detached 3 bedroom, all brick bungalow -- Original owner. New garage doors, newer windows and doors, separate entrance to potential In-law suite, 2 kitchens, 3 baths, 2 car garage and many extras! Fabulous Jane and Lawrence location for only $679,900!!

THE BELLARIA RESIDENCE!!

Incredible luxury condo, great location close to Vaughan Mills shopping centre,Canada’sWonderland,restaurants, and all conveniences. Fabulous gated community, 24hr concierge, Fantastic facilities, spacious 2 bdrm condo, stainless steel appl.Granite countertop,gleaming ceramic & hardwood flrs thru-out. A must see for $589,900!!

THE ESSEX 2 Tridel built fabulous corner suite 2+1 bedroom, open concept living & dining rm, W/O to balcony fabulous kitchen, granite countertop, breakfast bar, master bedroom with ensuite & walk-in closet, amazing amenities, steps to subway Bloor line/ Kipling Station only $379,900!!

LUXURY SHERWAY GARDENS !!

Spectacular 1 bedroom brand new never lived in suite, open concept layout, gleaming hardwood floors, granite countertop, modern kitchen, new appliances, all amenities, pool , Gym, theatre, and much more, plus 24 hr Concierge, steps to transit & Sherway Gardens Mall, amazing value only $249,900!!

5466

SEE MORE PHOTOS : w w w. G e t L e o . c o m Not intended to solicit persons under contract. *Certain Conditions May Apply. ReMax West Realty Inc. does not guarantee the sale of your home. Exclusively offered by Frank Leo.

| THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013

SELL Your Home FASTER and for MORE MONEY!

community

Parkdale in brief

THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013 |

hosts budget wJoinLayton town hall Trinity-Spadina Councillor Mike Layton tonight for a Ward 19 budget town hall where City of Toronto staff will present the proposed 2014 city budget. The presentation will include details on the property tax rate and funding for public programs and services such as child care, libraries, roads, transit, shelters and more. The budget town hall is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Bob Abate Community Recreation Centre, 485 Montrose Ave.

Wander through the historic buildings of Fort York, 100 Garrison Rd., where merchants in period clothing will sell quality merchandise inspired from the 18th and 19th centuries. Warm yourself by the bonfire or in the cheerful warmth of the Officers’ Mess Kitchen. The Fort York Frost Fair runs Saturday and Sunday and is included with regular Fort York admission.

on Dec. 8. Beginning at 10 a.m. at the Masaryk Cowan Community Centre, 220 Cowan Avenue, the exercising is optional, but participants are asked to bring an unwrapped gift and food donation. All toys and proceeds go to The Dovercourt Boys and Girls Club. Holly’s Toy Drive is an annual community event organized by Holly Jones’ mother Maria Jones. Christmas Food Drive in Liberty Village For the second year W&Y Homes Co. in Liberty Village is hosting a Christmas Food Drive in support of the Daily Bread Food Bank. Donations can be made at W&Y Home’s office, 61 Hanna

York Frost Fair Holly’s Toy Drive on wFeelFort w on this weekend Dec. 8 the excitement and charm Supporters will mark the 10th of the festive season in Upper Canada some 200 years ago at the Fort York Frost Fair.

Anniversary of Holly’s Toy Drive with an “Aerobathon”, a twohour marathon fitness class,

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health Help for dry mouth

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DET. 3 BEDROOM, TWO STOREY, 2 BATHS, ORIGINAL WOOD TRIM, FRENCH DOORS, LEADED/STAINED GLASS WINDOWS. WAINSCOTTING. TTC AT DOOR, 27X126’ LOT WITH RIGHTOF-WAY AT REAR. RENOVATE TO YOUR OWN TASTE.

Exploring Sword Lake

*Independently Owned And Operated

807 INDIAN ROAD–HIGH PARK!

a&e

Spend Christmas in High Park. Take a tour of Colborne Lodge, 11 Colborne Lodge Dr., enjoy the Victorian Christmas decorations and light, seasonal refreshments weekly on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday until Jan. 7 (excluding Dec. 25, 26 and Jan. 1). If you would like further details, visit www.highpark.org or call 416-392-6916.

UP TO 69% OFF A GOLF AND WINE PACKAGE FOR 2 AT ROCKWAY VINEYARDS

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Ave (Unit 5), and in the lobbies of 10 condo buildings in Liberty Village. The building with the most donations will have a table of treats and coffee delivered to their building. For more information visit www.wyhomesco.com

EURO CHIC MEETS URBAN GREEN 53 HIGH PARK BLVD UNIT D Luxurious Condo Living In High Park Boulevard Mansion, Steps From Roncesvalles Village & Entrance To High Park. 3 Bedroom, 2 Level Suite, 2190 Sf Of High End Finishes. Scavolini Kitchen. Designer Baths. Bamboo Flooring. Super Insulated Geothermal Construction. Simply Stunning! $799,900

ANGELA BALAN 416 509-2557 Sales Representative

STUSELLS TEAM

Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage

Victoria Lofts, Voted Best New Condo(s) By Toronto Life! Open Concept With 12 Ft Ceilings & Oversized Windows. Hard Loft With Exposed Duct Work & Attractive Flooring. Modern Kit. With Quartz Counters, Glass Backsplash & S.S. Appliances. Bdrm With Large Window & Generous Closet. Steps To Restaurants, Shops, Galleries. TTC At Door. 152 ANNETTE ST # 105 Search “Ben Fenlon’s Toronto Real Estate Market Beat!” on Facebook!

BEN FENLON

416 301-0828

Sales Representative

Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated

Pick your agent wisely by choosing an agent that advertises in the best read Real Estate section in your neighbourhood.

416-493-4400

Tim Hortons “community oriented”

comment

>>>from page 1 “Yes, we are a large chain with a 49-year history, but we are community oriented,” Edwards said. He detailed the various ways Tim Hortons works with local communities including fundraising for children’s breakfast clubs with the Smile Cookie campaign and by supporting sports teams including High Park Soccer, High Park Baseball and the Swansea Hockey Association. There were about 50 residents, many from Fern Avenue, in attendance. Some expressed concerns over delivery and garbage trucks as well as the number of litter bins in the area, Be a part of the traffic and the noise discussion. Visit and look this story on our of the reswebsite and share taurant’s your thoughts in ventilation the comments system. section. “I d o n’t know if it  http://bit.ly/ICjupj fits into our neighbourhood,” said Brenda Shillington. “You are going to undermine all the mom and pop shops that have struggled to open and survived the redevelopment of Roncesvalles.” In particular, many residents took issue with the signage on the building and asked the franchisees to consider straying from the traditional Tim Hortons signage. Another resident spoke up against his neighbours’ opposition to the restaurant. “Is this because it is a franchise? I didn’t hear this kind of outrage when David’s Tea opened,” he said. “I think there is a cultural judgment happening here because people think there should only be coffee shops of a certain persuasion.” He reminded his neighbours they can voice their opinion on having the coffee shop in their neighbourhood by choosing to not purchase coffee there. The Roncesvalles Village Tim Hortons will be the third location in Toronto for the franchisees. The owners said they welcome feedback if there are additional concerns. “I don’t want to start off on the wrong foot,” Ashima Vij said during the meeting. “I have two pages of notes here... What you have given us today are the ingredients for our success and I would be dumb not to listen to you.”

Tim Hortons is planning a follow-up public meeting after it opens.

Union Pearson Express Electrification Environmental Assessment Transit Project Assessment Study and Class Environmental Assessment Study

NOTICE OF COMMENCEMENT Metrolinx is proposing to electrify the Union Pearson (UP) Express route beginning at the future UP Express Union Station in the City of Toronto and terminating at the future UP Express Pearson Station (Terminal 1, Toronto Pearson International Airport) in the City of Mississauga. The project involves the electrification of approximately 25 kilometres of track along the Union Station GO Rail Corridor and Kitchener GO Rail Corridor to Highway 427, where the route then follows the new UP Express spur line (under construction) into Toronto Pearson (see map below). The purpose of the project is to convert the UP Express route from diesel to electric power. Electrification of the UP Express is part of The Big Move, Metrolinx’s regional transportation plan which will dramatically improve how people move in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton areas. Funding for the electrification is dependent on the Metrolinx Investment Strategy. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (EA) PROCESS Metrolinx and Hydro One are carrying out a parallel EA process to satisfy both Metrolinx’s requirements under the Transit Project Assessment Process (TPAP) and Hydro One’s requirements under the Class EA for Minor Transmission Facilities (Class EA). The parallel EA process involves both EAs being completed simultaneously. The Environmental Project/ Study Report will be made available for public review and comment. THE PROJECT Electrification of the UP Express route will be achieved through a Traction Electrification System which will provide electricity to the trains by means of a Traction Power Distribution System (Metrolinx) and Traction Power Supply System (Hydro One). TRACTION POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM The proposed Traction Power Distribution System is an Overhead Contact System (OCS) comprised of a wiring system providing power to the trains. The wiring system will be suspended from a number of OCS structures (i.e. portals, cantilevers) placed along and over the track. The Traction Power Distribution System also includes two Paralleling Stations (PS) to boost the voltage along the UP Express route, as well as gantries which provide power to the OCS, and are located in the vicinity of each PS. A new electrified maintenance facility will need to be built to carry out maintenance on the new electric trains. The environmental impact of the Traction Power Distribution System components and electrified maintenance facility is being assessed under the Transit Project Assessment Process, in accordance with Ontario Regulation 231/08 – Transit Projects and Metrolinx Undertakings.

TRACTION POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM Electrification of the UP Express requires a connection to Ontario’s electrical system. It is proposed that the power be supplied from the existing 230 kilovolt (kV) transmission line that runs between Hydro One’s Claireville Transformer Station (located near Highway 407 and Highway 27 in the City of Vaughan) and Richview Transformer Station (located near Highway 401 and Highway 27 in the City of Toronto). Cables will deliver power to a new 230 kV Traction Power Substation (TPS). The TPS will convert the voltage from 230 kV, to 25 kV so that it can be used to power the electric trains. The Traction Power Supply system is subject to provincial Environmental Assessment Act approval in accordance with the Class EA for Minor Transmission Facilities. CONSULTATION Members of the public, agencies and other interested parties are encouraged to participate in the EA process by attending consultation opportunities or contacting the project team directly with information, comments or questions. Consultation opportunities are planned and will be advertised on the project websites, in local newspapers and via direct mail. A second round of joint Public Open Houses are planned for winter 2014 to present and seek feedback on both the TPAP (Metrolinx) and Class EA (Hydro One) project components. Consultation with the public, review agencies and First Nations and Métis communities is a key component to the UP Express Electrification EA. If you would like to submit a comment or question, or receive additional information related to the UP Express Electrification Project, please send an email to the project team at: electrification@metrolinx.com or contact: Karen Pitre Executive Director, Electrification Metrolinx-GO Transit 20 Bay Street, Suite 600 Toronto, ON M5J 2W3 tel: 416-874-5910 e-mail: electrification@metrolinx.com www.gotransit.com/electrification

Patricia Staite Environmental Planner Hydro One Networks Inc. 483 Bay Street TCT6 Toronto, ON M5G 2P5 tel: 416-345-6799 e-mail: Community.Relations@HydroOne.com www.HydroOne.com/projects

Pour plus de renseignements, veuillez vistiter le site gotransit.com ou composer un des numéros ci-dessus.

| THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013

community

THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013 |

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Patino DeJong feeds Dancer at the High Park Christmas Celebrations which took place on Sunday despite the rain. The second annual celebrations featured holiday carols, face painting, tree lighting, decorating classes as well as helping Santa feed his reindeer.

SUPPORT SICKKIDS THIS MONTH BY PARTICIPATING IN THE FOLLOWING EVENTS

MONDAY

TUESDAY

DECEMBE BER R

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

1 2

DECEMBER 1 – 31: HOLIDAY GIVING CAMPAIGNS

We wouldn’t be able to bring holiday magic to The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) without the help and support of our community and corporate partners. This year, you can help make SickKids a little brighter for patients and their families by taking advantage of some of our festive shopping opportunities. For more information, please visit http://www.sickkidsfoundation.com/news/newsHolidayGivingGuide.asp

DECEMBER 1– 31 : DE SARIO ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DISPLAY

This annual light display has attracted visitors from across the GTA for 14 years. The De Sario family began decorating their home in support of their daughter, who was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes as a child and treated at SickKids. The house is located at 165 Benjamin Boake Trail (Keele and Sheppard) in North York. The lights are turned on every evening around 5:30 p.m. and all donations support SickKids.

DECEMBER 9 – 24: FIRST CANADIAN PLACE HOLIDAY GIFT WRAP CENTRE

During this annual campaign, any sized gift can be wrapped for a minimum donation of $5.00. It is open between 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on weekdays from December 9 to 23 and between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on December 24 on the street level of First Canadian Place (on Adelaide Street between Bay and York Street). All proceeds are donated to SickKids.

DECEMBER 10: WINTER DREAMS

This inaugural fundraising event at the Rosehill Venue (Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue East) is a night of winter indulgence surrounded by a rustic and chic ambiance. The evening will consist of a fashion show, a raffle, special performances and dancing. Proceeds will support SickKids. For more information or to buy tickets, please visit http://winterdreams.edzin.com/#nav-header

DECEMBER 14: SANTA SPEEDO RUN

This less than three km fun run is a festive opportunity to don red, green and white Speedos while running through the Yorkville neighbourhood. A limited quantity of Speedos will be provided onsite at the start of the race. The run will start and end at Hemmingway’s Restaurant, 142 Cumberland Street at 1:30 p.m. Proceeds raised from this event support the Toys & Games Fund at SickKids. For more information or to register, please visit www.torontosantaspeedorun.com/

For a complete list of all events and to register your own event, visit www.sickkidsfoundation.com/events @sickkids

/sickkidsfoundation

Friends of High Park Zoo ask city budget committee for partnership LISA RAINFORD lrainford@insidetoronto.com

riends of High Park Zoo has submitted a proposal to the city’s budget committee to create a public-private partnership model to ensure the zoo remains open for years to come. The group is proposing establishing a High Park Zoo Conservancy in an effort to provide a zoo that is enduring and exceeds visitors’ expectations. “This is our idea on how to make the zoo sustainable,” said Friends of High Park Zoo spokesperson Chris Diceman on Monday, Dec. 2 as public deputations continued at the budget committee at city hall. “The city alone can’t fund the zoo.” The High Park Zoo has been operating for the past two years without city funding and the budget committee has not included it again for 2014, pointed out Diceman. “The status quo is not an option. We need to propose restoring funding as well as a bigger picture option,” said Diceman, adding the proposal should be received “favourably.” According to Friends of High Park Zoo research,

the zoo attracts as many as 500,000 visitors per year, 40 times the visitors per hectare per year versus the admission-supported Toronto Zoo. The group has successfully raised enough money to keep the zoo open for the past two years, however, has found it challenging to entice money from corporations. “No corporation is willing to risk its capital without the city playing an active role to ensure the sustainability of the zoo,” said Friends in a statement. “Residents also find it hard to fathom that the budget committee and city council will, if approved for 2014, have raised residential property taxes by two per cent or more each year since cutting the funding for High Park Zoo while not restoring $1 of funding for the zoo.” Friends, along with Parkdale-High Park Councillor Sarah Doucette, called on zoo supporters to attend the budget committee meeting Monday, Dec. 2 and Tuesday, Dec. 3 and to make a deputation about why the zoo should be back in the city’s budget. Its annual operating cost is $228,000. People were also invited to make a written submission or show

support at the meeting by wearing zoo buttons or by waving a peacock feather. Friends of High Park Zoo are calling on the city to step up in the 2014 budget and partner in funding the operating costs of High Park Zoo. Such a partnership would allow the organization to focus more on raising capital and other funding with corporations, businesses, foundations and grants for the enhancement (and ultimately the possible self-sustainability) of the zoo. Friends is proposing the city provide the $228,000 in operating costs for 2014 while both partners work toward consummating an agreement to implement a plan that creates a High Park Zoo Conservancy. Established in 1893 for deer, the zoo’s animal paddocks have always been a popular attraction. Today, 120 years later, the zoo’s 11 paddocks are home to a variety of animal species from around the world, including bison, llamas, peacocks, reindeer, highland cattle, wallabies, emus and sheep. The zoo is free to the public.

For more info on the Friends of High Park Zoo’s proposal, visit www.highparkzoo.ca

13 | THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013

community

SAVE $1.00

ON ANY REACH® TOOTHBRUSH Staff photo/ERIN HATFIELD

Jan Goodwin, left, Trudi Reaume and Rev. Gary van der Meer sit outside St. Anne’s Anglican Church. The church is hosting a fundraising Christmas concert this Sunday, Dec. 8.

Cantate will also include sing-along >>>from page 1 Scadding Court Community Centre and is awarded to students from within 14 Division’s boundary who demonstrate leadership and community involvement. “We wanted to be more present and related to the neighbourhood and the scholarship seemed like the perfect thing,” van der Meer said. Coincidently van der Meer had been, at around the same time, meeting with the church’s music director about freshening up their music program so they came up with the idea of hosting a Christmas concert in support of the CPLC scholarship. That came into question, however, in July with the shooting death of Sammy Yatim by police. “Immediately there were members of the congregation who said, ‘this scholarship is for the police, I’m not so sure about that,’” van der Meer said. “And the media seemed to be so anti police for a while.” But van der Meer said the leadership at the church knew they needed to do something with the community in light of the tragedy. “It became an opportunity in disguise in that if we really cared about the community we should care about the issue of mental health and people in our neighbourhood who have mental health challenges,” van

“

We wanted to be more present and related to the neighbourhood.

– Rev. Gary van der Meer

der Meer said. “We needed to be better informed about the issue in order to be a better community partner.” St. Anne’s went to Workman Arts where Lisa Brown, the executive director there, suggested the church host a community reading of a play Workman made in 1993 about a police shooting of a person with mental health challenges. In September, St. Anne’s presented a reading of the play Vincent, about a young schizophrenic man shot by a police officer, to help the community grow in its understanding of a complicated situation. Based on a true story the play has extensively toured North America since its publication twenty years ago. In September three parishioners performed the reading at the church and there was a panel of special guests: Mike Federico, Deputy Chief of the Toronto Police, and Jennifer Chambers of the Empowerment Council, affiliated with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).

“The beauty of it was that the police are not allowed to talk about this case because it is before the courts, but when you put on a play that has all the same issues... but they said together such sensible things.” It was such a rich event, van der Meer said, and the result was anyone who had questions about supporting the 14 Division CPLC Community Safety Scholarship came around to feeling it was right to put on the Christmas concert. “We hope it will bring all kinds of people from the neighbourhood who might not otherwise be at St. Anne’s, and that they will recognize that they are community partners in the long term, helping the neighbourhood and that they will enjoy doing Christmas with us,” said van der Meer. Cantate will have three elements: a performance by the church choir and the Junction Trio; a Christmas carol singalong; and then a dance performance by the Pia Bouman School of Ballet and Creative Movement. One of the recipients of the scholarship will be on hand to talk about his work in the neighbourhood and what the scholarship has done for him.

Admission to Cantate is $10 a person, children are free.

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THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013 |

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CARPET UPHOLSTERY steam cleaning any 4 rooms, hallway and Building Equipment/ stairs $90. Sofa set $60. Extra rooms $20. Free Materials d e o d o r i z i n g . STEEL BUILDINGS/MET- 416-879-4751 AL BUILDINGS UP TO 60% OFF! 30x40, 40x60, 50x80, 60x100, 80x100 Flooring & Carpeting sell for balance owed! Call: 1-800-457-2206 NESO FLOORING www.crownsteel Carpet installation buildings.ca

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Parkdale happening in

it’s happening w Thursday, Dec. 5

Wabash Building Society Meeting WHEN: 7 p.m. WHERE: Sorauren Fieldhouse, 50 Wabash Ave. Agenda includes update on Sorauren Town Square construction, Metrolinx noise wall, Wabash Community Centre planning, Railpath developments, and more. All invited. History of Roncesvalles Jeopardy WHEN: 7 to 8 p.m. WHERE: High Park library, 228 Roncesvalles Ave. The Roncesvalles Village Historical Society invites people to a game of Jeopardy featuring the history of Roncesvalles. Snacks and refreshments provided.

w Saturday, Dec. 7

Fort York Frost Fair WHEN: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: Fort York National Historic Site, 250 Fort York Blvd. CONTACT: www. fortyork.ca/news-a-events/ events.html COST: Regular

admission Feel the excitement and charm of the festive season in Upper Canada some 200 years ago when the local Christmas Market was one of the social and shopping highlights of the year. Wander through the historic buildings of Fort York where merchants in period dress will be selling quality goods inspired by the 18th and 19th century. Gifts Of My Hands Holiday Craft Market WHEN: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. WHERE: Sorauren Park, 50 Wabash Ave. CONTACT: Nici Shipway, 647-9926316, giftsofmyhands@ gmail.com COST: Free Locally made gifts for the whole family while supporting the artisan community.

w Sunday, Dec. 8

Holly’s Toy Drive Aerobathon WHEN: 10 a.m. to noon WHERE: Cowan Community Centre, 220 Cowan Ave. CONTACT: Karyn, 416801-0103, karynklaire@ sympatico.ca COST: Free Celebrate the 10th year for

Holly’s Toy Drive, a community event organized by Maria Jones, in memory of her daughter, Holly. A two-hour fitness class (optional) with various instructors will take place. Bring an unwrapped gift and food donation. All toys and proceeds will be donated to The Dovercourt Boys and Girls Club.

w Tuesday, Dec. 10

Art Aesthetics WHEN: 7 p.m. WHERE: Gallery 1313, 1313a Queen St W. CONTACT: Stefania Sdao, 416-323-9149, ext. 240 COST: Free The Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic (BSCC) is a specialized clinic for women experiencing violence. The event is being held Dec. 10 and 11 and will directly benefit the BSCC.

get listed!

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

Roncesvalles Village BIA honoured by TABIA for community engagement

“

LISA RAINFORD lrainford@insidetoronto.com Roncesvalles Village Business Improvement Area (BIA) was recognized for its community engagement with a framed certificate at the annual Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas (TABIA) awards night. As many as 17 awards were presented to BIAs across the city in 15 categories at a reception held at the Palais Royale on the waterfront. Representatives from the City of Toronto’s 77 BIAs attended. “It’s a recognition as much for our community as it is for us,” said Roncesvalles BIA coordinator Keith Denning. “We work hard with all kinds of different businesses to make this community work.” For example, the BIA collaborates with the Revue Film Society and Sweetpea’s to help beautify the street, Denning said. Three time’s a charm for

It’s a recognition as much for our community as it is for us. – Keith Denning

the local BIA. It has been recognized by TABIA for the past three years, also earning: • the Perseverance Award for enduring a lengthy construction project along Roncesvalles Avenue; • the Michael Comstock Community Builder Award, which was presented to Andrew Chomentowski, chair emeritus and chair of the marketing and promotions committee, for his work organizing the annual Roncesvalles Polish Festival. Comstock, who died last year, was a long-time advocate for his St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood and served as president of TABIA until April 2012. This award honours his work and legacy. A lot of the BIA’s work is

done by volunteers. “It’s like a full-time job,” Denning said. The community engagement award is in recognition for all this hard work, he said. Made-in-Toronto model During his speech at city council where he bestowed the City of Toronto with this year’s Michael Comstock Community Builder Award, John Kiru, executive director of TABIA, said the BIA concept is a made-in-Toronto business model created by a group of Bloor West Village merchants 43 years ago. “Since then, this innovative and practical private and public sector partnership idea has been copied by cities and municipalities around the world,” he said. “Toronto continues to be a world BIA leader by having the most BIAs of any urban centre.”

Check out the Roncesvalles Village BIA at www.roncesvallesvillage.ca

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| THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013

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THE PARKDALE-LIBERTY VILLAGER | Thursday, December 5, 2013 |

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