Today’s wifi and reception outages with Rogers have thrown everyone for a loop! Thank you all for your patience with one another — I hope that the impacts to your day have been minimal, particularly for our small businesses and frontline workers that are feeling the brunt of the outages.
As we all look forward to seeing this out outage resolved soon, I hope you’re also gearing up for the weekend ahead. The moment kids across the city have been waiting for it finally here… school is out for summer! For many, that means finding new and exciting ways to explore and enjoy our beautiful city. From events and notices that will help you plan your trips around #BEY, to information on summer jobs and volunteer programs for youth, this newsletter has everything you need as you settle into the first weeks of summer break in Beaches – East York.
We’ve been taking big steps forward for Toronto’s housing agenda over the past few weeks, and its exciting to see more advancements on housing get towards the finish line.
At Planning and Housing Committee meeting this past week, we made progress on several key items, including on the continuation of the City’s first-of-its-kind Inclusionary Zoning policy. In addition, we continued our work to allow small-scale retail spaces in our residential neighbourhoods, make the integration of multiplexes back into neighbourhoods possible, and to bring in the measures to reduce the frequency of renovictions.
This week also brought news of seven new affordable and supportive housing developments as part of Phase Two of the federal Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI). RHI funding will enable the rapid creation of new supportive and affordable homes, and two thirds of the homes also providing wrap-around support services and be prioritized for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. We welcome one of these locations to our own community here in Beaches-East York at 136 Kingston Rd. In total, these seven projects will create 260 new affordable and supportive homes in Toronto and will grow the capacity and expertise of Toronto’s non-profit housing development sector.
Moving from housing to road safety, we are full steam ahead with local improvements. Beaches-East York is moving ahead with various road safety measures following a successful two packed days of Toronto and East York Community Council last week. Residents can anticipate the installation of speed humps at 8 new locations as well as all-way stop controls at 3 new intersections: Amsterdam Ave & Westview Ave, Epsom Ave & Westlake Ave and Glenmount Park Rd & Love Cres. With road safety as one of my top priorities, I look forward to delivering these traffic calming measures across our neighbourhoods for you.
Last weekend we had an incredible time celebrating Canada Day with so many across #BEY. After two years apart, our East End energy was truly back in full force. From the return of the historic East York Canada Day parade, to festivities at our four Legions, two official fireworks shows, celebrations at Stan Wadlow, and Shomoy Mela back at Dentonia Park – our community was out making #BEY a warm and welcoming place to celebrate the best of being Canadian.
As we celebrated with gratitude, we are reminded that Canada Day is more than just an opportunity to cheer for our country. It’s also an important day of reflection. While we embrace how far we have come, we must also look in to our past, acknowledge the pain and oppression of Indigenous peoples on which our country is built on, and channel that reflection into continued action on Truth & Reconciliation. As a land of opportunity and refuge for many, we are incredibly lucky to live in the greatest country on earth. And that greatness exists because of the different cultures and unique backgrounds that make Canada diverse, and our commitment to building a bright future together.
With one big weekend behind us, many in our community look forward to the one ahead! Tomorrow, our Muslim neighbours in the Beaches-East York community and around the country will begin celebrating Eid al-Adha. They will be partaking in celebrations as they mark the end of their annual religious pilgrimage to Mecca, called Hajj. On Eid, many Muslims in our community will congregate for their traditional prayers, share a special meal with loved ones, provide charity and support to those in need, and partake in gift-giving. This three-to-four-day-long celebration is a time spent reflecting on life lessons of generosity, community, and service.
I am sending good wishes to all of those who will be beginning their Eid preparations this evening at sundown. I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the continuous contributions of our Muslim neighbours in shaping our much loved Beaches-East York community. May the spirit of compassion, generosity and community continue throughout the year. To all those observing, I wish you and your loved ones a wonderful celebration. Eid Mubarak!
Looking for some live music this weekend? Afrofest is back this weekend at Woodbine Park! Click here to learn more about the incredible performances taking place today through Sunday. Tonight’s performances begin at 6pm and will commemorate the iconic artists we have lost throughout the pandemic.
Keep your dancing shoes on because the Beaches Jazz Fest is on until July 24! Click here to see the upcoming events and performances taking place right here in #BEY. As Canada’s largest free jazz festival with over 1000 performers & 50 bands this year, you won’t want to miss out on the fun!
Looking for a new date night idea? Let the Danny BIA do that for you! This year, the local BIA is working with our small-businesses to promote all the Danforth Mosaic area has to offer at their Date with the Danny Summer Festival. From incredible restaurants to first-class services, our local businesses have something for everyone! So grab your partner, sibling, friend, parent or child and come check out the outdoor dining, live music, art + food tours, weekend sidewalk sales on a #DateWithTheDanny! Learn more here.
What better way to use the longer days and warm summer weather than by enjoying a movie night under the stars. Bring the whole family down to KEW gardens every Wednesday at sunset until August 31 for Family Movie Night at the Beach!
This time of year always seems to fly by, so don’t miss out on all the fun: Make sure you stay in the #BEY loop by following my Twitter, Instagram or Facebook page.
– Brad
In This Issue
Updates & Announcements from City Hall
- Rapid Housing Phase II delivers 260 new affordable and supportive homes in Toronto 🆕
- Housing & Planning Committee updates 🆕
- Road Safety Improvements 🆕
- Feedback wanted on City of Toronto restaurant programming initiatives 🆕
- TTC Subway Closures for July 🆕
- Queen Street East Corridor – Safety Improvements Approved
- New EV Chargers Approved
- City of Toronto Seeking Representatives for Climate Advisory Committee
- Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative Annual General Meeting
- COVID-19 Vaccine Updates 🆕
- Lumsden Community Day – July 8 🆕
- Afrofest – July 8 – 10 🆕
- Date with the Danny Festival – July 9 – 21 🆕
- Family Movie Night in the Beach – July 13 & 20 🆕
- Hidden Job Market: Summer Employment Workshop – July 14 & 21 🆕
- Hijabs and Helmets: Learn to Ride Workshop – July 14th 🆕
- Stories from Ukraine – July 24 🆕
- Beaches Jazz Festival – until July 24
Community Programs & Employment
- Children’s Peace Theatre Camp 🆕
- Awakening Artists Mentorship Program 🆕
- Free Hospitality Training Program 🆕
- ArtMEETS workshops 🆕
- Join the Young Ravine Leaders! 🆕
- H & H Social Club 🆕
- Community Centre 55 Garden Volunteers wanted
- Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program
- Aquatic leadership courses & Lifeguard recruitment
- Tuesday Walking Club
- De-escalation training for street-front retailers
- TRCA is hiring Lifeguards & Camp Councillors!
- Volunteer with Garden @ Kimbourne
- Registration for CampTO still open
- Registration for Toronto Parks and Recreation Programs is open
- Beaches Art Installations: Winter Stations Return for Summer! 🆕
- Date with the Danny 🆕
- Hope for Ukraine – Donations Needed 🆕
- Courtyard Farmer’s Market 🆕
- Lawn Maintenance Reminder 🆕
- Harmony Good Food Market
- BEY Foodbanks
- East Lynn Park Farmers Market
- East York Farmer’s Market is open!
- Deeply Rooted: New East York Famers Market
- Bee a good neighbour
- Call for walking guide volunteers with AIC
- Notice of Road Closure – Stephenson Avenue 🆕
- Watermain Relining project – Park Ave temporary directional change 🆕
- Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project 400 Scarborough Road
- Toronto Hydro Overhead Electrical Upgrade; Queen St. E.
- Danforth Extension Installation
- Watermain Replacement and Road Resurfacing on Denvale Road
- Watermain Relining and Cleaning
- Sewer Main Relining Upgrades at Various Locations
- Toronto Hydro Underground Electrical Upgrade; Project Kingston – Waverley
- Watermain Replacement and Road Resurfacing on Denvale Road
- Toronto Hydro – Overhead Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project Danforth
- Toronto Hydro – Danforth Ave. Cable Chamber Rebuild
- Munroe Park Avenue Stairs Closed for Construction
Get active on the water this year with Kayaking, Paddle Boarding & more!
- WSUP Toronto
- Toronto Beach Kayak
- iPaddle Adventures
It’s CafeTO season! Check out this year’s patio map from our Beach BIA and plan your next night out, al fresco style.
Thanks for taking the time to read my bi-weekly newsletter! If you have any events, news, or ideas to share for our next one – please reach out to my office. Send me an email at [email protected], and we can get you included in our next issue.
Reminder!🎶🎉
Afrofest is returning to Woodbine Park this weekend! From July 8 – 10, stop by to experience the rich and diverse expressions of African music and culture in an inclusive, vibrant and positive community festival setting. Through Afrofest, a diverse audience celebrates the abundant energy of African music in an effort to cultivate community spirit and enhance the understanding and appreciation of the diverse people of Africa.
Updates & Announcements from City Hall
Rapid Housing Phase II delivers 260 new affordable and supportive homes in Toronto 🆕
This week brought news of seven new affordable and supportive housing developments as part of Phase Two of the federal Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI). RHI funding will enable the rapid creation of new supportive and affordable homes, and two thirds of the homes also providing wrap-around support services and be prioritized for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. We welcome one of these locations to our own community here in Beaches-East York.
In total, these seven projects will create 260 new affordable and supportive homes in
Toronto and will grow the capacity and expertise of Toronto’s non-profit housing
development sector. The projects being announced today are being led by:
- Wigwamen Incorporated at 525 Markham Rd.
- Akwa Honsta Non-Profit Aboriginal Homes at 136 Kingston Rd. (In #BEY!)
- St. Clare’s Multifaith Housing Society, at 1120 Ossington Ave
- Canadian Helen Keller Centre, at 150 Eighth St.
- WoodGreen Community Housing at 60 Bowden St. and 1080 Queen St. E.; and
- St. Felix Centre at 25 Augusta Ave.
In addition to capital funding through RHI, the City has applied its Open Door program incentives to these projects, providing relief to Indigenous and non-profit partners from development charges, planning and building fees, and subject to City Council approval will waive property taxes for the duration of affordability, in most cases for over 40 years. The City is also supporting the rapid delivery of these sites through the Concept 2 Keys programs’ priority development review program.
Housing & Planning Committee updates 🆕
Big steps forward were made at the Planning and Housing Committee meeting this past week. We are working hard with our communities to navigate the complex housing hurdles we face in Toronto, and expand our housing options and opportunities, city-wide. This week, we moved ahead with several key items, including the advancement of the City’s ground-breaking Inclusionary Zoning policy. In addition, we continued our work on allowing small-scale retail spaces in neighbourhoods, making possible multiplexes and reducing the frequency and impacts of renovictions.
These are exciting advancements that will make their way to City Council in the coming weeks.
Road Safety Improvements 🆕
Beaches-East York is moving ahead with various road safety improvements following a successful day of Toronto and East York Community Council this week.
Residents can anticipate the installation of speed humps at 6 new locations:
- Laneway south of Kingston Rd, E and W of Southwood Rd
- Kingsmount Park Rd – Gerrard St E to Eastwood Rd
- Plaxton Dr – St. Clair Ave E to Ferris Rd
- Rosevear Ave – Dawes Rd to Newman Ave
- Haslett Ave – Kingston Rd to Norway Ave
- Hemlock Ave – Robbins Ave to Maughan Cres
- Coleridge Ave – Lumsden Ave to Milverton Blvd
- Oakcrest Ave – Amroth Ave to Westlake Ave
In addition, all-way stop controls will be installed at the following intersections:
- Amsterdam Ave & Westview Ave
- Epsom Ave & Westlake Ave
- Glenmount Park Rd & Love Cres
With road safety as one of my top priorities, we look forward to delivering these traffic calming measures.
Feedback wanted on City of Toronto restaurant programming initiatives 🆕
The City of Toronto’s restaurant programs are designed to support local businesses, inspire local tourism, foster community engagement, and encourage economic growth in the city. This short survey looks to gather public feedback on the City’s existing restaurant programs as well as provide input on future program development. Complete the survey by July 18.
TTC Subway Closures for July 🆕
Check out below to see the scheduled subway closures for the month of July.
Queen Street East Corridor – Safety Improvements Approved
Ensuring our roads remain safe for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles is key a priority for us in #BEY.
It was great to see Council approve my plan calling for increased safety measures along the Queen Street East corridor between Silver Birch Avenue and Victoria Park Avenue, including expediting calming measures in the area and installing a pedestrian crossing. Read the full letter here.
New EV Chargers Approved
The City is moving ahead with the installation of 32 much-needed, on-street EV chargers by the end of 2022. Beaches – East York will now be receiving 8 of these chargers, at 4 locations: 31 Roseheath Ave., 543 Strathmore Blvd., 1856 Queen St. E., and 1760 Queen St. E.
These new stations will make it easier for Beaches – East York to convert to electric vehicle use. Although we still have a ways to go in green infrastructure, every advancement in EV charging is a win for a greener tomorrow.
City Seeking Representatives for Climate Advisory Committee
Are you a climate champion? Do you have ideas on how the City should achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions? Do you have expertise to share? The City of Toronto is seeking residents, local organizations, and key stakeholders to advise the City on implementation of the TransformTO Net Zero Strategy. TransformTO is Toronto’s climate action strategy to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to net zero by 2040 – one of the most ambitious targets in North America.
The City is seeking applicants with a passion for climate action to help achieve the 2030 interim targets in key areas such energy, waste, buildings, transportation, greenspace, and equitable implementation. The Climate Advisory Group (CAG) will have approximately 20 members from the community, representing local organizations as well as individuals. It is anticipated the CAG will meet four times per year, with in person and hybrid meeting options that allow the group to be flexible to changing personal circumstances and community health guidelines.
Applications will be welcomed from all community members, including local organizations, community leaders, and residents from communities experiencing social, economic and other barriers (people of colour, newcomers, LGBTQ2S+ persons, Indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities).
The deadline for submission is July 20 at 11:59pm EST.
For any additional information or questions, please visit website at toronto.ca/transformto or send an email to [email protected]
Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative Annual Meeting
Tackling big policy like water preservation and environmental protection require collaboration and teamwork. That’s why coalitions like the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative are incredible to be a part of. Sharing ideas in-person and building strategies for the future is one of the best ways we can work towards our climate and environment goals.
With the work being completed through this year’s annual general meeting, we are setting the stage for how cities across the region can leverage the potential of our freshwater resources.
COVID-19 Vaccine Updates 🆕
East Toronto Health Partners’ (ETHP) COVID-19 Outreach Centres in Flemingdon Park, Taylor-Massey and Thorncliffe Park now offers walk-in prescriptions for COVID-19 treatments, including the Paxlovid pill. Our COVID-19 Outreach Centres also offer mental health counselling and other services that support COVID-19 recovery and help our priority communities better prepare for additional waves of the virus. Walk-in COVID-19 PCR tests, take-home PCR test kits and vaccines also continue to be available at these sites.
All clinics in East Toronto now offer fourth doses to individuals who are aged 60 and older at the time of vaccination, and First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members who are aged 18 and older at the time of vaccination. These individuals must have received their third dose more than 140 days ago.
Local appointments can be booked in advance at www.tehn.ca/covid19/covid-19-vaccinecineAppointment. You can also use the provincial booking system online or at 1-833-943-3900.
Pop-Up Clinic at Afrofest 🆕
Toronto public continues to offer vaccines through pop-up clinics around the city. Stop by 1695 Queen St. E, this weekend to get your 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th dose in Beaches-East York! Details below.
Local Events
Lumsden Community Day 🆕
Reminder! Tonight is the Lumsden Community Night! From 4-8pm, join the TCHC community safety unit, fellow staff, and community partners for good food, exciting activities, and lots of fun!
Afrofest 🆕
Afrofest is happening this weekend at Woodbine Park! Click here to learn more about the incredible performances taking place today through Sunday. Tonights performances begin at 6pm and will commemorate the iconic artists we have lost throughout the pandemic.
Date with the Danny Festival 🆕
The Danforth has so much to offer. From incredible restaurants to first-class services, our local businesses have something for everyone! This year, the local BIA is working with our small-businesses to promote all the Danforth Mosaic area has to offer.
So grab your partner, sibling, friend, parent or child and come check out the outdoor dining, live music, art + food tours, weekend sidewalk sales on a Date with the Danny!
Learn more here.
Family Movie Night in the Beach 🆕
It’s that time of year again! Movie Nights In The Beach are back! Wednesdays from sunset to 11pm, join The Beach BIA for weekly movies, music, games and snacks at Kew Gardens Park. Admission is free!
Check out the schedule and get ready for a ton of fun! Movies, music, lawn games, snacks and GIVEAWAYS.
Get your dinner or movie snack at any of our 80+ restaurants and eateries in the Beach.
Next week’s film is Field of Dreams. You won’t want to miss it!
Hidden Job Market: Employment Workshop Series 🆕
Access Alliance will be hosting a series of employment workshops in partnership with TNG July 14, 21 and August 4 from 6pm – 7:30pm.
Join us and lean more on how you can improve your resume, explore the hidden job market and creating the perfect linked profile.
The topics that will be covered are as follow:
- Resume workshop
- Hidden job market
- Career cruising – paid assessment, clients will be able to access it for free when they attend this workshop
- LinkedIn workshop
Only one link to register for all workshops! Here or in the link and/or QR code on the flyer.
Hibajs and Helmets: Learn to Ride 🆕
Join Access Alliance for their workshop series, Hijabs & Helmets: Learn to Ride taking place on July 14th, August 4th, and August 11th.
Access Alliance will provide all equipment, snacks and tokens to the participants. Riders of all skills are welcome and you do not have to wear Hijab to participate in any of our program so feel free to join us! From 5 pm- 7 pm, meet at the Access Point on Danforth (3079 Danforth Avenue) for an evening of fun with friends!
Stories from Ukraine 🆕
On Sunday July 24th at 1:30 PM, join the Toronto Chinese Mennonite Church in welcoming our new friends and hearing their stories. Come listen to experiences of fleeing the war and how we can help as a community.
Beaches Jazz Festival
The Annual Beaches Jazz Fest is back! This year will mark the 34th of the festival, which is taking place July 2-24. Learn more about this year’s musical celebration here.
Community Programs & Employment
Children’s Peace Theatre 🆕
Every July, Children’s Peace Theatre runs a three-week Peace Camp where 12 accomplished professional artists and 12 youth and junior guides work with 40 children aged 8-13 in a collaborative process to create an original production complete with original musical score and visual production pieces, based on explorations of relevant social issues and the children’s visions of peace.
Each year the work poses questions for the children to explore, and invites them to examine and question the world they live in, a world that often celebrates acts of violence, yet at the same time produces acts of heart stopping courage, kindness and humility.
Seriously some of the best summer theatre Toronto has to offer! For more information, please call us at 416-752-1550 or e-mail [email protected]
This year’s Theatre Camp runs July 11-30, from 9am-3:30pm at 305 Dawes Rd. Click here to learn more & register your child.
Awakenings Artists Mentorship Program 🆕
Calling artists for the 2022 Awakenings Artist Mentorship program.
Esteemed curator Ashley McKenzie-Barnes has partnered with Toronto History Museums to offer mentorship to 10 artists in developing artwork responding to an anti-colonialism, anti-oppression and anti-racism Awakening, specific to City of Toronto Toronto History Museums. This first-of-its-kind mentorship opportunity is open to emerging and mid-career artists 21 years of age or older, working in contemporary visual art, design and interdisciplinary practices with a focus on projects from the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Artists, apply to the 2022 Awakenings Artist Mentorship program by July 29 at https://www.toronto.ca/ArtistMentorship
Free Hospitality Training Program 🆕
HWTC has partnered with the Ontario Tourism Education Council (OTEC) and Tourism SkillsNet Ontario to offer Hospitality Career Pathways (HCP), a free eight-week program that will introduce you to different careers in the hospitality industry.
HCP is a must for anyone considering a career in hospitality including jobs as a Housekeeper, Room Attendant, Guest Service Agent and Restaurant/Banquet Server. In addition to the various roles in the industry, you will also learn about industry standards and expectations for success in the workplace.
The program includes online and in-person instructor-led sessions, independent activities, and one-on-one coaching sessions. In-person classes take place at the Toronto Don Valley Hotel.
It also includes a two-week placement within a hospitality setting. Training and certifications in WHMIS, Smart Serve, and Food Handlers, as well as resume writing, job search, and interview skills, are also included in the program. Learn more and register for the program here.
Training: Jul 11 – Aug 19
Job placement: Aug 20 – Sep 4
ArtMEETS workshops 🆕
In case you missed it, East End Arts is ecstatic to present their program, ArtMEETS, for its fifth year this summer! Led by talented, engaging, and supportive artist facilitators, each ArtMEETS workshop is an opportunity for adults to learn a new art skill, meet new people, and let your creative side shine!
This year’s workshops are focused on textile art skills, and are all Pay What You Can from $10-50! Workshops run on Saturday afternoons in July and August (eight workshops total) from 1-4pm. Learn about the full workshop lineup, and register while space is available here.
Join the Young Ravine Leaders! 🆕
Gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Toronto’s ravine network while learning from and connecting with industry professionals through the Young Ravine Leaders (YRL)! Toronto youth (18 – 29 years old) interested in ravine ecology, urban forestry and environmental stewardship are invited to apply to this free, online program. This program is open to all youth, but seeks to support those from Neighbourhood Improvement Areas and/or underrepresented groups within arboriculture and urban forestry. YRL is organized by LEAF and funded by the City of Toronto.
Link: https://www.yourleaf.org/young-ravine-leaders
H & H Social Club 🆕
Hijabs and Helmets presents the H & H Social Club! Meeting every Tuesday from 3 – 5pm at Access Point at 3079 Danforth Avenue, join the H & H Social Club to meet fellow hijabi riders and participate in weekly workshops such as bike maintenance, healthy lifestyle, motivational speeches, Movie/ Game Nights, field trips, outdoor activities and more!
July 05th : Bike to the Store
July 12th: Safe Cycling 101 Workshop
July 19th: Art in the Park
July 26th: Bike Maintenance Workshop
Community Community Centre 55 Garden Volunteers
Community Centre 55 is looking for volunteer Gardeners! If you have a green thumb and would like to participate, contact Jade at [email protected].
Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program
Summer is here and Toronto Intergenerational Partnerships is offering assistance for seniors in need of help with lawn maintenance. To register, contact Kevin at [email protected] or call (416) 531-8447 ext. 501.
Aquatic leadership courses & Lifeguard recruitment
#CityOfTO is calling for qualified residents to apply for lifeguard, swim instructor, wading pool and aquatic assistant roles. Visit Toronto.ca/recjobs to learn more!
Aquatic leadership courses are also available for those interested in becoming certified: https://efun.toronto.ca/torontofun/Activities/ActivitiesAdvSearch.asp?SectionId=6&BasicSearch=True
Tuesday Walking Club
Gerry Leisk will be continuing to lead the Community Centre 55 walking club for the summer. Meeting every Tuesday, 9:30 am at CC55, please feel free to join in. For more information please contact Gerry at [email protected].
De-escalation training available for street-front retailers
The City of Toronto is offering de-escalation training sessions for street-front retailers. The sessions are geared to managers or employees who interact with the general public regularly and would like to learn strategies and skills for communicating with individuals who may be street involved or displaying agitated behaviours. Level 1 training must be completed before taking Level 2 training. Learn more and register for free here.
TRCA is hiring Lifeguards & Camp Councillors!
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is now hiring Lifeguards and Camp Counsellors for its 2022 summer season! Enjoy a summer job with competitive wages and benefits that include FREE access to all TRCA parks and discounts on activities across the GTA!
Click here to learn more about these positions & apply.
Volunteer with Garden @ Kimbourne
Garden @ Kimbourne is looking for volunteers to help with their local community garden. The group gathers every Wednesday from 6pm – 8pm and Sundays from Noon to 2:30pm. Enhance your Green Thumb and get involved by visiting their website!
Registration for CampTO still open
The City of Toronto’s CampTO and Adapted CampTO is back in every neighbourhood across Toronto this summer! This exciting camp experience for children ages four to 16 years makes for fun memories close to home, with physical activities, arts and crafts, nature-based programs and outdoor activities in parks.
CampTO Plus is also available for children interested in a particular specialty such as arts, cooking, creative writing, drama, dance, science and sport.
Registration began on Tuesday, April 12 and camps run from July 4 to September 2. More information is available at toronto.ca/camps.
Registration for Toronto Parks and Recreation Programs is open
Registration for summer Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation recreation programs is now open!
Join an outdoor fitness class, learn a new skill or meet people in the community across thousands of courses on offer this season. Explore programs & learn how to register here.
Neighbourhood News
Beaches Art Installations: Winter Stations Return for Summer! 🆕
Three of the popular installations from Winter Stations 2022 will be back in the Beach this summer!
The Beach BIA and The Sud group are inviting residents to once again see the art installations The Hive, Wildlife-guard Chair, and Introspection as they are displayed at prominent locations along Queen Street East in the Beach for the month of July.
The three installations were among the five that had made up the eighth annual Winter Stations exhibition along Woodbine Beach this winter.
The Hive will be located on the north lawn of the R. C. Harris Water Treatment Plant on Queen Street East, at the foot of Victoria Park Avenue.
Wildlife-guard Chair will be on display at Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen St. E.
Introspection will be on display near the front of the Beaches Branch Library, 2161 Queen St. E., at the entrance to Kew Gardens park.
Click here to learn about the stations.
Hope for Ukraine – Donations Needed 🆕
Working with many members of both our local and international medical community, Meagan’s HUG is bringing hope to Ukraine families. Beaches – East York has recently become home to several refugees families, and Meagan’s HUG is working to ensure they receive the funding and support needed.
We are providing on the ground support for families traveling to Toronto to continue their cancer treatment. Meagan’s HUG has partnered with some amazing organizations and partners in our city to provide accommodations food, clothing and the essentials to make the transition as easy as possible on these children and families. Thank you for going above and beyond to make a difference!
Your donations to this campaign will go directly to supporting the needs of these families including putting food on the table, clothes on their back and toys to make their new environment as comfortable as possible.
To learn more or get involved, click here.
Courtyard Farmers’ Market 🆕
The Courtyard Farmers’ Market returns to Fairmount Park to celebrate a second season!
Their Farmers and diverse Vendor Family bring affordable, nutrient-dense, farm-fresh, Ontario produce, delicious pastries and sumptuous preserves from our small Family farms and local entreprises, to you and your Family!
Happening every Wednesday until October 5, 2022, from 3:30pm – 7:30 pm at the Courtyard Farmers’ Market, Fairmount Park, 1752 Gerrard Street East. Click here to learn more about the market.
Lawn Maintenance Reminder 🆕
Let’s keep our community looking beautiful.
This year’s weather has resulted in lush and healthy folliage growth all throughout Beaches-East York. With that in mind, the City would like to remind residences that boulevard area trimming is the responsibility of the adjacent property owner. This means that regular lawn maintenance by-laws apply, including grass trimming and weed maintenance regulations. Should the city receive a complaint about the boulevard/curb adjacent to your home, Bylaw would advise you to maintain/trim back the area once the vegetation has reached over the thresholds outline in Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 743.
Together we can help make our neighborhoods looking tidy and beautiful!
Harmony Good Food Market
The 3rd year of the seasonal, outdoor Harmony Good Food Market is here! It is a non-profit affordable produce market in partnership with FoodShare with the intention to increase access to a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables to the local community.
We want to extend an invitation to our community partners to join us at our market if you would like to do any outreach for your programs. This could range from activations to engage people or simply providing outreach materials you would like us to share. We are still following safety protocols including masking and maintain safe distances.
The focus is on produce, however it is also a friendly and welcoming space where folks are able to get out safely to connect and feel a sense of community. We have found that the market has become an access point for the community to programs and services beyond the market.
If you’re interested in being part of this year’s market, contact Kathleen at [email protected].
BEY Food Banks
Thanks to the incredible devotion of community volunteers and organizations, as well as generous donations, Beaches-East York is proud to offer several food banks for those in need of support.
Grace Pascoe Care Centre – Calvary Baptist Church & CC55
The Grace Pascoe Care Centre has been a ministry of Calvary for more than 60 years and serves the catchment area from Victoria Park Ave. to Woodbine Ave. and from Danforth Ave. to the lake.
In collaboration with Community Centre 55, food hampers are provided on Thursday evenings from 6 pm to 9 pm.
For more information on the program and how to donate, email [email protected] or call 416-691-2899
Grant AME Church Food Bank & Soup Kitchen
The mission of this ministry is to meet the needs of those in the community experiencing food insecurities by providing groceries, a warm meal and as much as we are able to, provide the much needed essential personal items to anyone in need. Soup Kitchen & book bank hours are Fridays from 4pm – 6pm.
For more information on the program and how to donate, email [email protected] or call 416-690-5169.
FBC offers a meal service every second Wednesday of the Month. The next meal will be on July 13th from 9:30am to 11:00am. For more information on how to participate or donate, call 416.699.7156 or email [email protected].
East Lynn Farmer’s Market
The East Lynn Park Farmers’ Market is back! With enhanced accessibility & plenty of new vendors, there is no shortage of fun at this year’s Beaches-East York market! Happening every Thursday from 3 – 7pm at East Lynn Park. Check out the list of this year’s vendors here!
East York Farmer’s Market is open!
Open every Tuesday from 8am – 2pm at the East York Civic Centre, the East York Farmer’s Market is your one stop shop for everything fresh and delicious!
For more information on the market and to see the full list of 2022 vendors, visit the EYFM Facebook page!
Bee a good neighbour
Want to BEE a good neighbour? Learn about the do’s and don’ts for your lawn and how to grow pollinator-friendly gardens! Avoid prohibited plants that can pose a threat to human health or natural areas and cut grass regularly. Delight neighbours with your garden but don’t block sidewalks or driver and pedestrian views. Learn more at toronto.ca/GrassAndGardens.
Dogs in the City
Toronto is a city of dog lovers, but it is important to remember that not everyone feels the same way about dogs. Here are few ways to keep the peace and share our spaces safely:
- Keep your dog under control and on a leash unless in designated dogs off-leash areas. Off-leash dogs can commit dangerous acts, which can lead to written warnings or dangerous dog orders.
- Pick up after your dog and dispose of waste properly. The City has Green Bins for organic waste in all dogs off-leash areas in parks and has recently expanded the pilot to add dog waste compartments to street litter bins.
- Respect our natural habitats and wildlife. Stay on trails and make sure your dogs don’t trample plants or chase wildlife.
- Purchase a pet license for your dog. If they get lost, a pet licence will get them home faster. When you purchase a pet licence, you can also receive exclusive offers and discounts through the BluePaw rewards program.
More tips for being a good dog owner: toronto.ca/DogsInTheCity.
Deeply Rooted: New East York Farmers Market
East York is home to Toronto’s latest farmers market: Deeply Rooted. Located at 455 Cosburn Avenue, the market will be operating every Sunday from 9am – 2pm, beginning May 8. Deeply Rooted is dedicated to creating a farmers market that focuses on highlighting Black and Indigenous vendors. Their market will also generate and circulate money within the Black and Indigenous communities to combat the injustices within the food industry.
To learn more about the market, visit their website here.
Call for walking guide volunteers with AIC
Achilles International Canada (AIC) is in need of able bodied walking guides for our Beaches Chapter. AIC provides opportunities for people with disabilities to achieve their own personal athletic goals. Currently our programs include running, walking and wheelchair rolling.
We encourage all levels and abilities: people who have never run in their lives to those training for marathons. AIC meets every Saturday morning at 8:30 at the Woodbine Beach Parking Lot, Lakeshore Blvd. If you are interested in becoming a walking guide please visit the AIC website to register or come out on a Saturday morning to meet the group.
Work in the Ward
Notice of Road Closure – Stephenson Avenue 🆕
Watermain Relining Project – Park Avenue temporary directional change 🆕
There is a watermain relining project underway on Beech Ave, between Park Ave and Queen St East. Due to the narrowness of the street, the contractor has requested to close Beech Ave. Local traffic would still be able to access Beech Ave.
Park Ave will be made into a temporary two-way street, which would allow traffic from Balsam Ave, Fir Ave and Fernwood Park Ave to get to Willow Ave to exit the neighbourhood instead of only Beech Ave.
This temporary two-way designation would only be in effect during work hours. The project is expected to be completed by October 2022. Residents on Park Ave will be notified in writing of this change.
Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project 400 Scarborough Road
Toronto Hydro Overhead Electrical Upgrade; Queen St. E.
Danforth Extension
Exciting news! The Destination Danforth extension from Dawes Road to Victoria Park Avenue is scheduled to begin on Sunday June 12th (in the evening) and is scheduled to take one month.
Watermain Replacement and Road Resurfacing on Denvale Road
Waterman Cleaning and Realigning
Watermain Cleaning and Relining on Willow Avenue, Park Avenue, Hazel Avenue, Beech Avenue and Balsam Avenue south of Queen Street East, Fir Avenue from Balsam Avenue to Fernwood Park Avenue, and Fernwood Park Avenue from Hazel Avenue to Fir Avenue
Sewer Main Relining Upgrades at Various Locations
The City of Toronto will be rehabilitating existing sewer infrastructure in your area. The project is part of the Council-approved Capital Works Program to renew aging infrastructure, reduce the risk of leaks, and ensure continued long-term reliable sewer service. Depending on the type of repairs needed, construction will be completed in two or three phases over the next 8 months. Each construction phase will last approximately three to seven days.
This work is essential to ensure the City’s infrastructure remains safe, in a state of good repair and able to meet Toronto’s needs. During construction, the contractor is responsible for all aspects of health and safety on site as specified under the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act. Click here to learn more about this work.
Streets that will be affected are:
- Yardley
- Westlake Avenue
- Lumsden Ave
- Crewe Avenue
- Westbrook Avenue
- Orley Avenue
- Epsom Avenue
- Chisholm Avenue
- Doncaster Avenue
- Gatwick avenue
- Newmarket avenue
- Gates Avenue
- Harris Avenue
- Danforth Avenue
- Siver Birch
- Pine Avenue
- Beech Avenue
- Spruce Hill Road
Toronto Hydro Underground Electrical Upgrade; Project Kingston – Waverley
Watermain Replacement and Road Resurfacing on Denvale Road
Toronto Hydro – Overhead Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project Danforth
*Work is expected to begin January 2022.
Toronto Hydro – Danforth Ave. Cable Chamber Rebuild
Munroe Park Avenue Stairs leading to Silver Birch Beach Closed for Construction
Please be advised that the Munro Park Ave stairs leading to Silver Birch Beach will be under construction. The existing wood and brick staircase is being removed, and concrete steps with a metal handrail are being installed. Weather permitting, this is expected to wrap by late fall.
Access to the Beach can be gained from Neville Park Blvd and Nursewood Rd to the east, and Silver Birch Ave and Willow Ave to the west.
Small Business Feature 🏄
Get active on the water this year with Kayaking, Paddle Boarding & more!
Looking for a way to get moving and enjoy our beautiful waterfront this summer? Stop by one of the three City-licensed facilities located in our ward.
- WSUP Toronto: Paddle Board lessons, rentals and classes.
- Toronto Beach Kayak: Kayak lessons & rentals.
- iPaddle Adventures: Paddle Board & Kayak rentals.
Thanks for taking the time to read my bi-weekly newsletter! If you have any events, news, or ideas to share for our next one – please reach out to my office! Send me an email at [email protected] and we can get you included in our next issue.
Have questions, comments or concerns? Just hit reply to this email and get in touch with me.
For real-time updates on the local issues that matter to you most, please follow any of my social media accounts!
About Brad Bradford - - -
