CHILDREN OF EDEN New musical lights up community stage See page 4
TDSB BASKETBALL Laurier and West Hill tip off for high school glory See page 8
THE EAST TORONTO
• Friday • February 19 • 2010 •
OBSERVER
• PUBLISHED BY UTSC/CENTENNIAL COLLEGE JOURNALISM STUDENTS AND SERVING MALVERN, HIGHLAND CREEK AND WEST HILL •
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Ties to Bernardo examined Charges against Col. Williams heat up ‘Scarborough Rapist’ cold cases caitlin stojanovski The Observer
josh ungar/The Observer
Giving back to the community
Melissa Gilbert (centre), star of Little House on the Prairie, came out Feb. 11 to build townhouses with Habitat for Humanity. See page 2.
Rouge Valley hospital plans layoffs BILLY COURTICE ALINA SMIRNOVA The Observer
Planned layoffs at Scarborough Centenary Hospital could result in longer wait times for patients, warns a hospital employee union. The Rouge Valley Health System gave notice on Feb. 5 of 14 positions being terminated as part of a deficit elimination plan introduced two years ago. At Scarborough the cuts include lab technicians, mental health workers and histologists. The layoffs could mean longer wait times for patients in histology and biopsy results could then take two to three days, which is double what is expected now, said Rick Janson, spokesperson for the Ontario Public Service Employees Union. “It’s not exactly humane for patients, to make them
wait that long to find out the results of their tests,” he said. The RVHS denies, however, any suggestion that service is slipping. “In fact, we’ve improved the quality of our care,” said David Brazeau, RVHS director of public affairs. Janson said the elimination of three social workers would cut a third of the social workers department—a substantial loss that would prolong the already four-month waitlist for children and youth mental health. “When you consider the fight we had over mental health a couple of years ago, it’s surprising that mental health is taking another cut,” Janson said. Brazeau said it is crucial for the health service to uphold the deficit-elimination plan for the hospital to continue operation. “As a hospital, we’re not
allowed to run in the red,” he said. “Now we’ve gotten our financial ship in order.” Janson said the health service had promised no services would be cut as long as the hospital received at least one per cent increase in funding this year. The health ministry has not yet announced the exact increase in the hospital’s funding for this year, he said. “It was a bit of a shock to actually see layoff notices given out,” Janson said. “We thought they would at least wait to see what their funding was going to look like.” Brazeau said efforts are being made to secure the future of the laid-off workers, including plans for redeployment and early retirement packages for those eligible. “It may be possible to redeploy enough people so that no one is out of work,” Brazeau said.
ALINA SMIRNOVA/The Observer
Rouge Valley hospital on Ellesmere Road. Aside from layoffs, the deficit-elimination plan included changes in spending on the hospital’s infrastructure. “We’ve compared ourselves to a lot of other hos-
pitals and said, ‘Oh look, not only are they spending less money, but also getting better results,’” Brazeau said. “We saw that we have the talent and the determination to do better.”
The search into Col. Russell Williams’s past has led to speculation of ties with serial killer and rapist Paul Bernardo. While police believe the connection is coincidental, they are not leaving any Scarborough cold case unexamined. Williams, a decorated colonel charged with two counts each of first-degree murder and sexual assault among other charges, attended the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus and graduated in the late 1980s with a degree in political science and economics. B e r nardo also attended U T S C and graduated in the late 1 9 8 0 s with a degree in RUSSELL commerce WILLIAMS and economics. The similarities in the studies of the two men have led to speculation. The Toronto Sun reports, based on several sources, Williams and Bernardo possibly knew each other. The police have stated there is no known connection between the two men. However, any unsolved Scarborough cases that coincide with Williams’s and Bernardo’s overlapping studies at the campus are being examined, police said. “Everything’s on the table,” homicide detective Doug Sansom said. “There’s nothing that is specifically jumping out, but any reasonable cases will be looked at.” See SCARBOROUGH, Page 7
PAGE 2 - The East Toronto Observer, February 19, 2010
NEWS
Trees cut without permit ALINA SMIRNOVA The Observer
JOSH UNGAR/The Observer
Melissa Gilbert (left) helps in construction of houses along with Habitat for Humanity and the cast of Little House on the Prairie: The Musical.
Little House in the ’borough Habitat for Humanity enlists musical cast to help with the construction of homes in West Hill JOSH UNGAR The Observer
The townhouses on Hainford Street, near Kingston Road and Lawrence Avenue, were centrestage for Little House on the Prairie: The Musical touring cast members last week. Melissa Gilbert and the rest of the cast from the musical partnered with Habitat for Humanity Toronto on Feb. 11 to help build 16 homes in West Hill. “Little House on the Prairie came out today to support Habitat for Humanity,” said Neil Hetherington, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Toronto. “To swing a hammer, put
up drywall and install windows.” The cast suited up in work boots and hard hats and got down to business, drilling in drywall screws and hoisting up lumber. “It’s an extraordinary feeling,” said Gilbert, who starred as Laura Ingalls in the original television series and is now playing Caroline (Ma) Ingalls in the musical. “This is my third experience drywalling, it’s really a rush.” The cast of the musical has a charitable partnership with Habitat for Humanity by which they spend time building and helping out in every city they visit on tour. Toronto is their only Canadian stop
this year. “We appreciate all they have done,” Hetherington said. “Little House has left a great legacy for the city of Toronto this year.”
Building houses Even the youngest member of the lot, 10-year-old Carley Sonenclar, was hard at work, painting and sanding pieces of wood. “It’s really good just to be here,” said Sonenclar, who plays Carrie in the musical. “We actually get to build the houses.” The cast was joined by Habitat volunteers and Will Kramer, a local high school
teacher who brought along a group of co-op students to help direct the build. “They’re really testing my skills today,” joked Gilbert as she fastened a drywall screw into place. “I feel really good about it, until the drywall falls down.” Hetherington hopes the star power of a celebrity like Gilbert will help bring more volunteers and attention to Habitat for Humanity, giving people what he calls “Habititis.” For Gilbert, it’s all about getting hands-on and giving back to the community. “This is not just giving money,” Gilbert said. “It’s actually coming out here and
doing the work.” Gilbert calls the partnership between Habitat for Humanity and Little House on the Prairie natural, saying the show and Habitat are all about family and good values. The homes are expected to be completed around April. They will be sold at the cheapest possible price to disadvantaged families in Scarborough. “We’ve seen people on the days they have been given the keys to their new home,” Gilbert said. “It’s amazing.” Watch a video of the construction at torontoobserver.ca
Toronto Zoo’s elephant exhibit draws criticism EMILY HUNTER The Observer
The Toronto Zoo is facing heavy criticism for the December death of matriarch elephant Tara, the fourth elephant fatality in four years. In Defense of Animals, a California-based watchdog, recently rated the Toronto Zoo number two among the Top 10 worst zoos for elephants in North America. The Toronto Zoo made the Top 10 list because of “deadly” conditions for these animals, including the lack of space and cold climate that has produced four deaths, the group said. “This is the highest mortality rate for any zoo in North America in the last four years,” said Catherine Doyle, elephant campaigner for the group.
Meanwhile, an elephant expert from Sweden, Dr. Joyce Poole, is urging city council to shut down the elephant program entirely. In a letter sent on behalf of the group Elephant Voices, Poole pressed council to send the three remaining elephants to a sanctuary, arguing Toronto is no place for elephants. But some say the hostility toward the zoo is unwarranted. Ward 38 councillor Glenn De Baeremaeker, a zoo board member, said the Toronto Zoo is quickly becoming “a green leader.” “The Toronto zoo is changing,” De Baeremaeker said. “We’re trying to change the mandate of zoos to be more compatible with species survival and to become places of education and advocacy.” The Toronto Zoo made
Courtesy Ben Powless
Tara, who died in December, was Toronto Zoo’s fourth elephant fatality in four years. little comment, saying only the zoo is working on a long-term plan for
its elephant program. That plan includes spending $40 to $50 million in expanding
the
three-hectare exhibit. - With files from Nadia Persaud
An investigation into development on a site in West Rouge has revealed that trees were being cut down illegally. What’s not known though is who did it. A stop-work order was issued last fall to a company that began work on 17 Island Rd., as they were suspected of violating several bylaws, said Peter Vanderyagt, constituent assistant to Ward 44 councillor Ron Moeser. An investigation that started last year revealed that no grading or water bylaws were broken, but trees protected by the city had been cut down without a permit, according to a recent city council report. “They were very mature trees — you can’t grow trees back in a year or so,” Ron Moeser Moeser said. “We want to send the message that this is totally inappropriate.” Parks Forestry and Recreation determined three trees with a diameter of over 40 centimetres have been removed. Under Toronto’s bylaws, a permit is required to remove a tree with a diameter larger than 30 cm on private property. The investigation found an application for a permit was submitted. Toronto Legal Services Solicitor Brendan O’Callaghan, said that the investigation is closer to completion, but it is not entirely clear who is responsible. “The investigators have to satisfy themselves who did it — on whose authority it was done,” O’Callaghan said. He said the fine for cutting down protected trees without a permit is as high as $100,000, although a sum that large has never been issued. “We’re definitely going to do something about it,” O’Callaghan said. “We’re not going to let it go.” City trees provide many benefits to people, including cleaner air, less UV exposure, shade and aesthetics, said Richard Ubbens, director of Toronto Urban Forestry. Currently the city is trying to double its tree canopy. “Everybody right away thinks: plant more trees,” Ubbens said. “But one of the very best ways to sustain the urban forest and to make it grow is to do a good job of maintaining it and protecting it.”
The East Toronto Observer, February 19, 2010 - PAGE 3
NEWS
Valu-Mart employees in theft investigation bradley featherstone The Observer
Amanda kwan/The Observer
Residents look at proposed plans for an LRV facility to be built near Morningside Avenue and Sheppard Avenue E.
TTC plans concern residents Amanda Kwan The Observer
Rose and Louie Sabatini support the construction of the Sheppard East Light Rail Transit, as long as the vehicle storage building is not placed in their backyard. The TTC held an open house on Feb. 10 to present their plans for a Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) maintenance and storage facility that will be built near Morningside Avenue and Sheppard Avenue East. The Sabatinis, who own a food packaging plant, said they were unhappy with how the TTC has managed the planning process. “[The TTC has] lined up their driveway that exits from their building and it lines up with our driveway that exits large, large trucks,” Rose said. “That’s not part of proper planning to me.” She also said their business, Rex Pak Limited, would
this as a program that probe affected negatively by the vides significant benefit enviLRV facility. ronmentally.” “The noise, the traffic, the The LRV facility will be pollution — there’s all kinds built close to Rouge Park and of issues we have to think of Morningside Creek Forest, a that I don’t think [the TTC] location that conservationist have thought of,” Rose said. Robert Marshall But David Nasaid could affect gler, TTC public We see the migration consultation coordinator, said this this as a pro- pattern of birds is the only site that gram that that live in the area. will work for the provides “If there’s too building. significant much light pol“It’s the closest proximity to benefit envi- lution, they avoid the LRT,” he said. ronmentally the area,” he said. “They get dis“We need the site at this location to - David Nagler tracted and get lost and might fly store the number into things like of vehicles needwindows and glass.” ed.” Nagler said the project will He also said light rail tranmeet the city’s environmental sit is a cleaner form of transregulations, including plans portation than current TTC to limit noise and light polbuses. lution by building a wall and “The facility is housing planting trees around the falight rail vehicles,” Nagler cility. said. “They’re electrically The TTC is still in the prepowered. There are no emisliminary planning stages, but sions on the street. So we see
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the LRV facility will undergo the Transit Project Assessment (TPA), a streamlined process that allows the TTC to choose a project without finding other solutions. Typically the bulk of public consultation comes after the TPA begins, which means design decisions have already been made. This has raised concerns that public input would be limited and transparency undermined. The Sabatinis said they didn’t find out about the LRV facility until they received a notice about the open house. The site for the building is final, but Rose said she is not going to move her packaging plant. “I’ve established a business. It’s taken me 20 years to get there. They’re going to come and move me out? No. I think we should come to an agreement that can work for both,” Rose said. Construction is slated for 2014.
Toronto Police are currently investigating 12 employees from Guildwood’s local Valu-Mart grocery store The store, located in the main plaza at 123 Guildwood Pky, fired 12 employees over the past month for allegedly stealing products from the store. Store manager Tim Arnold said he was unable to comment until the investigation was complete and said to talk to police. The police were also unable to comment. The Toronto Observer spoke to an exclusive source from inside Valu-Mart, who asked to remain anonymous for the safety of their job. The dismissals started when someone approached a manager of the store and claimed that many of the younger cashiers were giving other employees, and even some friends and families, unauthorized discounts or free food. It is alleged staff members gave discounts by pressing a 50-per-cent-off button, which
should only be used when an item has a special sticker on it, usually found on food which is close to its expiry date. The cashiers are also accused of giving away free food by simply tossing items over the scanner without actually scanning it. The source said store management now has concrete evidence of this after installing secret cameras inside the scanners facing up to catch whether the item was actually scanned. Valu-Mart has been closely examining video footage to put together evidence against the young employees. Most of those involved in the allegations are no more than 16 years old and work parttime. All of those fired were either cashiers or young workers in the store who received the discounts. The store will also be reviewing the receipt records of every suspected cashier going all the way back to October. Valu-Mart believes these employees have been costing the store $25,000 a year in lost revenue.
bradley featherstone/The Observer
Shoppers exit the Guildwood Valu-Mart, site of an internal theft investigation concerning employees.
Gem of a coach immortalized on softball diamond megan harris The Observer
For Jim Holmes, the decision to rename Malvern’s Wickson Trail Park softball diamond is heart-warming. The motion to change the park’s name to the Gary Holmes softball diamond, after Jim’s late father, was adopted by Scarborough Community Council on Feb. 9. Gary Holmes was a long time contributor to youth softball and the Malvern community. “Growing up, [my siblings and I] had to share our father with a thousand other kids,” Jim Holmes said. “It’s really nice to know that our community truly appreciates him and will miss him as much as we do.”
The elder Holmes started coaching softball in Malvern in 1986, and soon became an umpire. He was voted as Malvern’s umpire-in-chief in 1988. Eventually Holmes passed on this position to his son, and went on to become president of the Malvern Softball Association. Throughout all of this, Holmes remained a coach, always dedicated to his team. According to his son, Holmes went out of his way to make sure all the kids on his teams went to practice and became better players. Holmes also gave local children part-time jobs as umpires, getting them certified by Softball Ontario and Softball Canada. In addition, many improvements
gary holmes occurred within Malvern Softball while his father was involved, including new equipment and better parks to play in. The campaign to rename the diamond at Wickson Trail Park was started two years ago by the younger
members within a day of its Holmes, who wanted to reccreation. Everyone had nothognize the hard work and ing but nice things to say dedication his father put into about his father. the community. Jim also conJim knew his faIt’s really tacted Ward 42 ther’s days were limited and want- nice to know councillor Raymond Cho, ed to show him that our whose office his appreciation community was helpful in for everything getting the prohe’d done. truly started. A “In his eyes, his appreciates cess request to re[kids] and other him name the park kids needed him, was officially and he was there - Jim Holmes made at a Scarfor them,” Jim borough Comsaid. “He never munity Council considered what meeting Nov. 10. he has done as anything that Parks director Andrew was exceptional.” Koropeski, who recomJim started a Facebook mended the renaming, said group dedicated to changthe request corresponded ing the name of the park, with city policies. which he said gained over 70
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“There should be a direct relationship between the facility and the individual,” Koropeski said. “In this case, Mr Holmes was a major person involved in softball and youth groups at the park.” Jim says that naming the park in his father’s honour goes beyond his contributions to softball. It’s also about appreciating the role his father had in making Malvern a better and safer place for kids to grow up. “Each summer, Malvern Softball took around a thousand children and young teenagers off the streets and onto the diamond,” Jim said. “I truly pray that one day another Gary Holmes shows up.”
PAGE 4- The East Toronto Observer, February 19, 2010
ARTS & LIFE
‘Children of Eden’ provides heavenly performance Volunteer theatre production showcases local musical talent Sarah Moore The Observer
It may not be Broadway, but the Scarborough Music Theatre puts on a show that could give the big stage a run for its money. The première performance of Children of Eden on Feb. 11 relied on raw talent rather than elaborate sets and fancy costumes to bring down the house. The production made use of innovative tactics to overcome budgetary constraints, and the modest approach allowed for the story, as well as the music, to be the focus. The theatre became designated as a charitable organization last year, but acquiring funds to run a community production is always a challenge.
“For the most part, our money is whatever money we get from selling tickets,” said Jason Silzer, president of the theatre and director of the musical. He said the theatre also earns money through donations and grants. The production is based on a book by John Caird and loosely on the Book of Genesis, but there is more to the story than just religious theology.
It’s all about family Silzer said one of the reasons he was attracted to the story was that he found there was an ability to connect to the subject matter on many different levels. “You need to have it relate to personal experience,
Raph Nogal/ Courtesy of Scarborough Music Theatre
The cast of ‘Children of Eden’ work wonders with the limited supplies they have.
and because it’s about family, that’s why it connects to the audience and why it connects to the actors,” he said. Silzer, who has been an actor for many years, made his directorial debut with the musical and said he couldn’t be more thrilled with how it went. “I was more nervous today not being on stage than I’ve ever been on stage,” he said. “And then they started singing, and they got through the first number and the applause happened, and I just sat there going, ‘It’s going to be a good show.’ ” Silzer credits the show’s success to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved, all of whom work on a volunteer basis.
Many have day jobs Many have day jobs, coming to the theatre on their evenings and weekends, and are part of the production because they have a passion for theatre, he said. “Every single person is here and involved in the show because they love theatre and they love being involved in the shows,” Silzer said. Their passion did not go unnoticed, as one woman in the audience said she enjoyed the performance so much she felt
Raph Nogal/ Courtesy of Scarborough Music Theatre
Cast members at the Scarborough Music Theatre join together in song and dance. like getting up on stage and participating herself. This is not to say the show had no flaws, as noted by a few critics during a question-andanswer period. The cast and crew, however,
Arts council promotes cultural programs for community schools Sarah Moore The Observer
Although Scarborough may not be known for its art scene, the Scarborough Arts Council is trying to bring some colour to the east end. Nestled in a cozy, single -storied home, the council has been actively working to increase not only the number of arts-based programs in the city, but also the access that residents have to those programs. “A lot of opportunities [to participate in arts-based programs] tend to be downtown or spread out geographically,” said SAC executive director Tim Whalley. “Our role is to really look at the communities and neighbourhoods and see how we can provide access to and opportunities.” He also said the lack of programs in the city is not because residents show an ab-
sence of interest. “We see in the community that people want the access to Sarah Moore/The Observer arts programs, events and cul- Cian Knights, Tim Whalley, and Ben Lopes of SAC tural programs,” Whalley said. The many submissions the community, they build con- have the capacity to develop council got for its PULSE nections between people and them. The project will focus on Youth Scholarship Awards they bring a sense of belongwhat Cian Knights, director for Art, which is open to high ing,” Whalley said. The council is passionate of the program, calls “underschool students in Scarborough, shows the appeal of the about new programs and ini- serviced schools.” These are tiatives that are geared toward schools that have a lack of arts in the community. Ben Lopes, program co-or- building a sense of community programs and resources. Since Scarborough is a dithrough the arts, dinator for PULSE Arts build especially by giv- verse city, the program is also 2010, said he was impressed with skills, they ing access to cer- interested in how access to programs and arts-based programs can be both the number build com- tain events to those used as a medium for social of applicants and the quality of the munity, they who may not oth- change and an outlet for diverse groups of people to feel work they had build con- erwise enjoy it. Cultural Mosa- empowered as a community. submitted. nections “We’re truly trying to find a ics is a collaboPrograms like - Tim Whalley ration of seven very innovative way to look at PULSE, which different organi- issues of settlement and diverprovide a venue for community artists to show- zations, including SAC, with sity, and trying to really develcase their talents, are a vital the goal of assessing which op an initiative that will really part of a thriving community, five schools in Scarborough have an impact,” Knights said. The project is expected to most need new arts programs Whalley said. “Arts build skills, they build to be developed and which be completed early next fall.
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saw the critiques as constructive criticism and as a means to improve. The theatre hopes to fill the house during its final weekend of performances and emphasize the special rate given to
students. There will be several more performances over the next week until the final curtain on Feb. 27. For more photos of the production, go to torontoobserver.ca
Shadows of the past Ancient Egyptian history comes to Scarborough Kirsten parucha The Observer
King Tut and the rest of ancient Egypt paid a short visit to Morningside Library last week. On Feb. 18, the library hosted a presentation on the feature exhibit, “King Tut: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs”, currently open to the public at the Art Gallery of Ontario. T h e hour-long presentation by AGO repBoehmer resentative and University of Toronto graduate student Jennette Boehmer showcased many of the artifacts, sculptures and statues that are currently on display. The presentation informed the 26 persons of the exhibit’s historical background, and
more importantly, about its artifacts which Boehmer said is the main focus and highlight of the exhibit. “The artifacts come to us and they’re completely isolated,” Boehmer said. “We don’t see them in any context at all, but all those artifacts are an expression from a certain moment in time when people believed certain things and lived in certain ways and places.” She says the AGO helps people learn in accesible ways. Morningside Library is one of several Toronto Public Libraries that hosted this exclusive presentation. The library was granted the presentation after its request was accepted by the AGO. “I want visitors to learn a little more about the people who are behind those artifacts, so if they see a sculpture of someone, they’ll know a little bit more about the person and the time of which that person lived,” Boehmer said.
The East Toronto Observer, February 19, 2010 - PAGE 5
FEATURE
LEFT: Children hand out gifts to the crowd. RIGHT: A Chinese dragon entertains the audience at a parade in the Scarborough Town Centre . nadia persaud The Observer
Jenny Chan did more than shop at Scarborough Town Centre on Friday, as the annual Chinese New Year Parade went through the mall. “The parade is much bigger than I thought it would be,” Chan, 25, said. “There are more people in the crowd. There are more people in the parade. Before the parade was just on a stage and I like that this one is more interactive.” The elaborate parade to mark the Year of the Tiger featured dancing dragon and dancing lion costumes, and loud drums all believed to
Scarborough celebrates scare away bad spirits and bring good fortune. Dancing fortune gods followed close behind. Toronto Police Services then gave out red envelopes, or “li si”, to the crowd. These
traditional envelopes contained a quarter to symbolize good luck. Throughout the parade, the crowd grew steadily. Several people gathered on the top floor alongside the banisters
to get an aerial view of the festivities. Like many, Chan touched the dragons for good luck. And like many others at the parade, Chan wore red, a colour believed to scare away
evil spirits. Many of the children, adults and seniors also wore traditional Chinese shirts and dresses. Chinese New Year is based on the New Moon of the lunar calendar. This year, Feb.
nadia persaud/The Observer
14 marked the Year of the Tiger. Those born under one of the zodiac animals: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig are all thought to possess characteristics and mannerisms of these animals. Those born under the Year of the Tiger are thought to be affectionate, bold, characteristic, gracious, impulsive, independent and physically strong. People who are born under other animals may have their luck changed depending on the relationship between their animal and the animal of the New Year.
Black History Month brings prominent educator to Scarborough saeda raghe The Observer
saeda raghe/The Observer
Dr. Thomas Massiah lectures to students at the Malvern Library last week.
Dr. Thomas Massiah told a library full of high school students that occupation doesn’t define a person and self-respect is something that no one can give or take away from them. This scientist, lecturer, author and community activist is a pillar of the black community. Massiah spoke of his “journey through many adversities” as a black male growing up during the ’30s at an event hosted by Malvern Public Library in coordination with Lester B. Pearson Collegiate Institute on Feb. 11. “I think it is important to hear life stories — it’s like walking history,” said Adele Lamphier, youth service specialist at the library. Massiah was born in Montreal in the late ’20s as the fourth child to working-class parents. The pinnacle moment of his life was seeing his father taken away in an ambulance. “My father had been ill for
about two years at that time and we didn’t know what was going to happen and death wasn’t something I was familiar with. The next day we got a phone call saying that my father had died,” he said.
Growing Up His mother was left to raise six children in the midst of the Great Depression. Massiah was a gifted child from a young age. He could read by the age of three and remained at the top of his class throughout school. He said high school students are fortunate to attend school for free. “I hid behind my hand everyday and hoped that the teacher didn’t see me because I didn’t have the fees,” Massiah said. But by getting good grades, he managed to get bursaries to pay off school fees. Massiah went on to Sir George Williams College, and received a degree in chemistry. He then taught at
the university for 15 years. In 1956, he earned a Masters in chemistry from McGill and in 1962, a Ph.D. from the University of Montreal. Although black students have made strides in post-secondary institutions, Massiah said black female students are currently out-performing black male students. “I hope that the black male students will, instead of pulling up their trousers, pull up their socks and really apply themselves,” Massiah said. “I do not think that most of the black male students are taking advantage of the opportunities. Nobody pushed me, I went after these things.” Malvern library will be hosting Black History Month events every Saturday throughout February, including a drumming circle, a music circle and storytellers. To hear audio of Massiah on the importance of Black History Month, visit torontoobserver.ca
PAGE 6 - The East Toronto Observer, February 19, 2010
COMMENT
The East Toronto
OBSERVER
Councillor is Citizen Shame P
ublic figures are no strangers to scandal – and now Toronto’s very own Adam Giambrone can join Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan and Bill Clinton in a long line of famous cheaters. Like those before him, Giambrone continues a tradition of quitting at key moments in his career, after public disgrace. Tiger took a break from golf and Clinton was impeached. So in light of his recent exposure as an adulterer, Giambrone had to resign from the mayoral race due to the indecent press surrounding his affair with university student Kristen Lucas. Although the obvious theory is to think this young woman a gold-digging fame seeker, it’s safe to say that a councillor who gets involved with two women at once should have his judgment checked. Giambrone once introduced the idea of a ferry system as a means of connecting the great city of Toronto, by making use of the abundance of parking lots (which would have been used as docks) located in the Scarborough Bluffs. Perhaps the TTC isn’t the only thing that could use some work. Perhaps Giambrone could have stayed in the race had he known the evils of “sexting”. As the news of his sorted affair was made public by a detailed account of text messages, Giambrone and Lucas weren’t the only ones reaching new levels of intimacy. The rapid way in which technology has imbedded itself into our lives continues to find new ways of reminding us, that ironically for Giambrone, we are all connected. It’s no wonder that text messaging and related technology have impacted a mayoral race in such a way. In today’s digital world, exposed secrets and shameful affairs are news events we live for. As technology continues to grow on us like additional limbs, there is a lesson to be learned from Giambrone’s fall from grace. We may never know, for the time being that is, how Adam Giambrone would have served as mayor. But we can learn that the truth, no matter how it’s sent, will always come out. -Angela Rotundo
Bradley featherstone/The Observer
Confessions of a jaywalker Skating around
I arena ice time A
t the Malvern Community Centre around 2 p.m., the ice rinks are like the frozen tundra of the arctic: bare. We’re talking about two full-size ice rinks. What’s notable is that around the city of Toronto, ice time is a hot commodity. The ice rinks at some community centres in Scarborough are empty at prime times. They should be packed, or at the very least, used once in a while, by the people in this area. Meanwhile, you’ve got places around the city like Nathan Philips Square, Chris Tonks Arena, and Joseph J. Piccininni Community Recreation Centre constantly packed with casual skaters. The belief that Scarborough is not interested in hockey simply isn’t true. Scarborough has had its fare share of hockey influence. Chris Stewart of the Colorado Avalanche and Wayne Simmonds of the Los Angeles Kings are two notable NHL players from Scarborough. This empty ice is valuable to the hockey population. So much so that the issue is even affecting City Hall. Council will vote later this month to determine whether a central agency to split ice time between girls and boys teams at the city’s 48 arenas will be created. This all started after the Leaside Girls Hockey Association said its members weren’t getting their fair share of ice time. I’m sure if more people knew about the rinks at Malvern Community Centre, they’d be packed too. If hockey players are willing to wake up at the crack of dawn to play, surely people would make the trek to Malvern to hit the ice. The ice isn’t necessarily just for hockey players either. Aspiring figure skaters or beginners trying to learn can make great use of this ice too. Heck, maybe the next person who decides to use empty ice rink will become the next hockey great. So, if you want to lace ’em up and enjoy this winter activity, get down to your local ice rinks—they’re empty. Keep your stick on the ice, Scarborough. -Ryan Jhagroo
’m not an athlete, but I do enjoy the outdoors. The other day I decided to take a midday stroll around Highland Creek. It was a pleasant walk, interrupted only by short breaks of running for my life. Those who know me probably believe I only run to nab the last pair of designer boots on sale in my size. During my walk, however, I was “jay-running” to cross the busy streets of Highland Creek.
Walking restrictions A law has recently been put into place to ticket jaywalkers. I suppose we deserve it, but how can jaywalking be avoided when the designated crosswalks are so few and far between? The lack of crosswalks in Highland Creek was a topic raised in the last issue of the Observer and is not a matter to be taken lightly. In a town that relies heavily on foot traffic, crosswalks – like designer boots – are a necessity. Last week, one of the town’s most prominent grocery stores closed its doors. Two other locations in the area remain vacant. I am not suggesting the lack of
Sarina ADAMO crosswalks is responsible for the failed businesses, although I can’t see how installing crosswalks would do any harm. A traffic specialist already informed me a proper all-way stop study cannot be conducted during the winter months, so Highland Creek residents must wait in frustration, fear and danger.
Faster traffic Last week, traffic specialists laid down coils to measure traffic volume. But what will be done if the numbers are larger than they expected? The residents have witnessed an increase in the amount of traffic along Old Kingston Road, as it is a bypass into the area when Highway 401 is slow moving. If the traffic volume ropes prove these testimonies, the result may be to increase
speed limits. But as police crack down on distracted drivers and anxious pedestrians, infrastructure issues are not being addressed. Where will the residents walk safely? Can small-town businesses afford to not have jaywalking customers? Highland Creek may not be the main focus of the jaywalking blitz, but it should be the main focus of traffic safety studies.
Try again Their concerns, when voiced in the past, have not been dealt with. The truth is, as a resident it’s easy to get frustrated. But there is a new councillor in town, Ron Moeser. Then try, try again. Residents voices won’t go unnoticed this time. The only way to start the process of necessary change is by making our concerns heard as often as possible. My suggestion to frustrated residents is to call 311 or speak to the councillor directly. For now, I may need to refrain from running across the streets of Highland Creek. My designer boots were only made for walkin’.
THE EAST TORONTO
OBSERVER
Managing Editor: Angela Rotundo Online Editor: Patrycja Klucznik Assignment Editor: Kimberlee Nancekivell Copy Editors: Josef Jacobson, Fiona Persaud, Alice Hoang Photo Editor: Ryan Jhagroo Production Editor: Billy Courtice Faculty Editors: Eric McMillan and Andrew Mair
The East Toronto Observer Serving Malvern, West Hill and Highland Creek is published by University of Toronto/Centennial College journalism students under faculty supervision. We are located at the Centennial HP Science and Technology Centre. Please address correspondence to The East Toronto Observer, c/o Centennial College, 755 Morningside Ave., Toronto, ON M1C 5J9, 416-289-5000, ext. 8306, fax 416-289-5168. Email: HPObserver@centennialcollege.ca The opinions expressed in The Observer do not necessarily reflect the views of the college. The Toronto Observer, a companion website, is at torontoobserver.ca
The East Toronto Observer, February 19, 2010 - PAGE 7
NEWS
Kids give community centre facelift
Community Briefs
Storefront turns to youth for design ideas
Volunteers needed Adult volunteers are needed to work with seniors in an assisted living setting as escorts, off-site home visits, special events, and more. Training provided. Bendale Acres. 2920 Lawrence Ave. Daytime, evening and weekend. Call Selena at 416397-7058 or e-mail slynch@ toronto.ca.
NADIA PERSAUD The Observer
From the outside, the East Scarborough Storefront looks like any other building on Lawrence Avenue East. But inside, the yellow community centre is gearing up for changes. It started last October when Jaime Elliott-Nguagi, coordinator of special projects, and others at Storefront began to recruit people to help redesign and expand the small centre. They turned to the people who knew the centre the best — the youth. The group started with high school volunteers but soon changed. “We had to lower the age,” said Elliott-Nguagi. “Now we have students in Grade 7 and 8 because this is their second home and they really wanted to contribute.” At the same time they had to raise the age limit, which now extends to youth under 30 because the response to the group was so overwhelming. The youth worked in small teams with the Community Design Initiative, Design Exchange and mentors from ArchiTEXT.
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BRADLEY FEATHERSTONE/The Observer
Conroy Wilson diplays the model he helped design. It will be used as a blueprint for the renovations at the East Scaborough Storefront community centre. “We wanted to break down barriers to the more elite professions like architecture,” Storefront director Anne Gloger said. “Kids from this community don’t think of that as a career to go into, and we are hoping to break down those barriers.” Together they worked to redesign the existing 17,000 sq. ft. building. Approximately 4,000 to 8,000 sq. ft. will
Scarborough cold cases revisited From Page 1 The investigation into Williams’s past has reminded some Scarborough residents of other incidents that occurred when Williams was attending UTSC. Scarborough was plagued from 1984 to 1990 by a series of murders and rapes by an unknown attacker, nicknamed the “Scarborough Rapist”. Bernardo was apprehended in 1993 and convicted in 1995 for two first-degree murders and two sexual assaults. He is alleged to have committed many more. Williams’s graduation picture on a wall of UTSC’s “hall of excellence” has
been partially scratched out. Marks also appear on Bernardo’s photo. After graduation, Williams began his 23-year career with the Canadian Forces. He has been posted in a number of military bases in western, eastern and central Ontario, until his promotion to colonel in January 2009. In July 2009, Williams became the commanding officer at Canadian Forces Base Trenton and commander of 8 Wing. Williams appeared in court briefly via video up-link on Feb. 18. By request of his legal representative his next appearance is to be March 25.
Courtesy the Canadian Forces
Col. Williams salutes at the Battle of Britain parade in Trenton, Ont. in this National Defence handout photo.
be added. The final design was chosen on Jan. 26, in a community meeting where voters chose elements from presentations they liked the best. “Everything will be multipurpose to facilitate the resources we bring into the community,” Gloger said. To meet the growing demand from the high-priority neighbourhood, the computer
lab, kitchen, office space and resource centre will all be expanded. The Storefront was founded in 2001 in the Morningside Mall and moved into the former 42 Division substation in 2006 after the mall closed. The centre doesn’t record visitors but they estimate their services have been used more than 55,000 times last
year and the number increases yearly. All the more reason for the expansion. “Storefront is the place you come to if you need the answer to a question,” Elliott-Nguagi said. “If Storefront doesn’t actually provide the service itself, we know who to send you to.” Construction is scheduled to be finished in 2011.
Volunteer with the Host Program and help out a new Canadian deal with the stress of moving to a new country by familiarizing them with Canadian culture. Centre for Information and Community and Services Ontario, 2330 Midland Ave. Call Rose Chiu at 416-293-4565, ext. 117 or e-mail r.chiu@cicscanada.com.
Women’s league needs bowlers Get out of the gutter and come strike up some fun! The Pun-Ups Women’s FivePin League needs bowlers. Thursdays at 1pm. Parkway Bowl, 67 Ellesmere Rd. Call Janis at 416-391-2280.
Supermarket checking out Highland Creek landmark closes its doors after 24 years SARINA ADAMO The Observer
As a woman approached the Highland Creek Supermarket last week, she noticed the windows had been covered with paper. She examines a nearby ‘For Lease’ sign for a moment before walking back to her car, shaking her head. The store would have celebrated 24 years next month if it hadn’t closed on Feb. 5. Residents of Highland Creek may be puzzled over the sudden closure, but former manager Donna Paterson said it was a long time coming. “We had been thinking about it since last April, thinking when it would be a good time to get out,” Paterson said. “There is never a good time to get out.”
Regular customers were SARINA ADAMO/The Observer shocked when she explained A shopper tries the locked doors of the Highland Creek the supermarket had closed Supermarket. The store closed on Feb. 5. for good. One reason the familyfor food. closed he will be able to reowned business closed its “It’s like we were their surtire. For the past few years, doors was because new famrogate parents. You can’t desthe store was run only by the ilies were shopping at bigert them. You can’t tell them three of them. name stores. I don’t think ‘You can’t have food any“There are “You need to more’, ” Paterson said. people who have find your niche Highland She doesn’t know for sure not been able to when you’re in a Creek is what will replace the superlittle communi- deteriorating, approach us... If ty,” Paterson exI think it’s just they open their market, although she said it will not be another supermarmouths they will plained. “We had evolving. ket. cry,” Paterson that but it just be- Donna That location has been the said. Over the came too exhaustPatterson, home of food markets since years, the supering. As long as the 1920s. The Morrish fammarket has bethere was a store store manager ily used to live in the resicome a place of there was no life dence above the store. social gathering. [outside of the “I don’t think [Highland Paterson describes it as being business].” Creek] is deteriorating... it’s a huge family. Tony Sammut, co-owner just evolving,” Paterson said. A large part of this famof the grocery store with his “I think it’s changing for the ily is the community’s seson Leo, is 79 years old and better. If you don’t change niors, who relied on the suwas working seven days a things, they just crumble.” permarket’s delivery service week. Now that the store is
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PAGE 8 - The East Toronto Observer, February 19, 2010
SPORTS
Defending champs win East Region final Laurier Blue Devils finish at top of the standings with perfect season But the Warriors sank only one, letting the Blue Devils The Observer narrowly win the East division championship 53-52. A missed free throw in the “I’m happy, but it’s more last two seconds gave deof a relief,” Laurier head fending champions Sir Wilcoach Tony Vallejo said. “We frid Laurier Blue Devils a were expected to nail-biting vicrepeat, and we tory over their were able to acrivals West Hill We had a complish it. We Warriors in the East Region Selot of teams had a lot of teams nior Boys Tier gearing to gearing to knock us down.” One basketball knock us The two teams final on Feb. 11 played each other at Seneca Coldown twice this year. lege. - Tony Vallejo Laurier came out It was an exon top both times. tremely close The Blue Devils game throughfinished the season at the top out, with no team leading by of the Eastern Region standmore than 10 points at any ings with a perfect record of given time. Thirty-seven sec10-0. The West Hill Warriors onds left in the game, Laurier came second, finishing 8-2. sank a game-changing basWith the win, Sir Wilket to tie West Hill with 51 frid Laurier advanced to the points. city championship and was The score tied at 51, Lauto host Earl Haig for their rier made a two-point basket quarter-final match on Feb. to give them a two point lead 18. Earl Haig finished first in with four seconds left to go in the North/East division with the fourth quarter. a record of 6-3. With just 2.1 seconds on the clock, Laurier fouled For more pictures check West Hill, resulting in two the web gallery on the free throws and giving the Observer website at Warriors an opportunity to tie torontoobserver.ca the game. Kaitlynn Ford
Tournament for autism Canlan Ice Sports Scarborough, located on 159 Dynamic Drive, will host its second annual Reuad Singh Tournament for Autism on Feb. 25. The hockey tournament will start at 8:00 a.m. and finish by 5:00 p.m. For more information call 416412-0404.
Sign up for summer hockey
KAITLYNN FORD/The Observer
ABOVE: West Hill Warriors point-guard Kevon Parchment , #22, takes a jump shot while Sir Wilfrid Laurier Blue Devils try to block the shot. LEFT: Parchment drives towards the net against the Blue Devils in the East Region Tier One Senior Boys finals at Seneca College on Feb. 11.
RH King Academy wins semifinal matchup Victorious Lions clinch playoff spot after shutting out Bendale Tigers Kaitlynn Ford The Observer
After a decisive 6-0 victory over the Bendale Tigers on Feb. 17, the RH King Academy Lions will go on to the TDSB East Region B Division hockey championship. The game was lively and fast-paced, with quick turnovers and a handful of oddman rushes. The Lions, who faced a depleted Tiger team, scored two goals in each of the three periods of play. Bendale played the entire game with only nine players. “Today’s mentality is to just play a strong game – to the best of our ability,” Bendale Head Coach Steve Tay-
KAITLYNN FORD/The Observer
RH King Lions forward tries a wraparound on the Bendale Tigers goaltender. The Lions went on to score six goals in an overwhelming victory against Bendale Tigers. lor said before the match. “We know we’re playing with a short bench today, so it will be a tough game for us.
Cricket jobs now available The Scarborough Cricket Association secretary, Eon Gunrai, informs the community that the Annual General Meeting will be held on Feb. 21 at the Agincourt Community Centre, at the intersection of Midland and Sheppard Ave., from 1:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. The agenda includes the 2010 budget, Ontario Cricket Association matters, and elections for a handful of positions for the SCA that have come to term.
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KAITLYNN FORD/The Observer
Sports Briefs
But it’s hockey – and that’s what it’s all about.” The game got feisty in the last 10 minutes, with four of
the five penalties called in the third period. “It feels great. I feel like we played a good game.”
RH King Academy Assistant Coach Brian Chetwynd said. “A little bit of a circus at the end, but it feels good to be moving on [to the finals].” The Lions finished first in their division, never having lost a game in regulation, with a record of 5-0-1. The Tigers finished the season in fifth place, with a record of 2-4. “To finish first – we’re pretty excited,” Chetwynd said. “The guys worked hard, but we’re trying to take it one game at a time.” The final match will be played on Feb. 24 at Centennial Arena. For more pictures check the web gallery on the Observer website at torontoobserver.ca
Scarborough’s Canlan Ice Sports is currently accepting registration on a first come, first served basis for the upcoming 2010 spring and summer season of 3 on 3 Youth Hockey. Registration ends May 10. The season starts on May 29, and ends on Aug. 29. For more information call 416-412-0404.
Find your love match The Tam Heather Curling and Tennis Club located 730 Military Trail is hosting Love Match, a tennis speed dating event. Singles aged 30+ are welcome to participate. To register call 416-389-7149 or e-mail robert.dianne@sympatico. ca. Fee: $20.
Calling young cricket players The North Star Cricket Club located at Markham Road and Finch Avenue is hosting indoor practice for youth ages 7 to 17 on Sundays from 2 to 4 pm. Call 416556-5684 or e-mail nscc@ nscricket.net for registration or more information. Fee: $7.50