E-News: August 3, 2024

ByBrad Bradford

Hi Friend,

It’s hard to believe we’re already in August. I hope everyone has been enjoying their summer and keeping cool with a trip to one of our great splash pads, pools or beaches. 

August is the one month of the year without Council or committee meetings, and I’m looking forward to using that time to connect with more folks around our community. We’ll be hosting a pop-up consultation in Dentonia Park on Tues, Aug 13th from 3-6pm to get your feedback on a new splash pad coming to the park.

Stay tuned for more details about a Family Fun Day at Donald Summerville Pool on Sunday, August 18th from 2-4pm! There will be lots of activities to beat the heat and celebrate the pool’s re-opening this summer. 

Beaches Jazz Fest 2024

Once again, Beaches Jazz Fest took over Queen Street with amazing artists and delicious food for one of my favourite events of the year.

A space for the arts and culture that brings friends and family together. These are the type of things that make Toronto such a special place in the summer.

It was great to chat with so many neighbours – thanks for stopping by. Already looking forward to next year!

Paris Olympics First Week Spotlight

It’s been inspiring to watch Canadian athletes pouring out their heart and soul at the Paris Olympics 2024.

Congratulations to all our medalists so far – and good luck to those still to compete. Since I shared this image yesterday morning, we’ve already added several medals to the tally. Amazing – we’re all cheering you on!

Special shout out to 17-year-old Torontonian Summer McIntosh, who has won two golden medals, a silver medal, and set a new Olympic record in the 200m butterfly.

Stay tuned for the upcoming competitions next week and be ready to root for #TeamCanada.

As always, I look forward to reading your feedback and seeing you around the community. 

Best,

 – Brad


In This Issue

Updates & Announcements from City Hall

  • City Hall Updates 🆕

Small Business Spotlight :sparkles:

  • Mary’s Brigadeiro – 1912 Danforth Ave 🆕

Local Events 

  • August: Thrift Tuesday Clothing Sale 
  • August 7 – August 28: Movie Nights in The Beach 
  • August 24: Monarch Park 70s High School Reunion 🆕

Community Programs & Employment

  • Annual Toronto Nature Stewards 
  • BCS Annual Summer Sports 2024 🆕
  • Centre 55 – Community Seniors’ Classes 
  • Centre 55 – Mural Program
  • City’s Commemorative Tree and Bench Program 🆕
  • City of Toronto’s Identify ‘N Impact (INI) Youth Grant Program 
  • Housing Help Centre Workshops 
  • New Beginnings for Newcomers 🆕
  • Palliative Caregiver Support and Walking Group 🆕
  • PROBUS Club of Toronto – Waterfront Queens Quay and Beaches area 
  • Queer Youth United 
  • Scarborough Bluffs West EA Project 
  • SCHC – Fall Bereavement Support Groups 
  • Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance (SAHM) Program 
  • The BikeMatchWCN Program 
  • The Neighbourhood Group – Job Assistance 
  • Thorncliffe Park Youth Wellness Hub 
  • Toronto Community Crisis Team 55 and 53-Division Expansion
  • Toronto Police Service Board’s public consultation for a Public Order Policy
  • YEDI’s Not-for-Profit Program 🆕

Neighbourhood News 

  • Circular Materials Beverage Cup Pilot 
  • City of Toronto Taking Actions to Address Dangerous Dog Behaviour

Work in the Ward

  • Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Work; Project 351 – Woodbine Avenue
  • Toronto Hydro Underground Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project Massey – Crescent Town 
  • Woodbine/O’Connor Construction Update: July 2024 
  • Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Halsey Avenue 
  • Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project Danforth 
  • Toronto Hydro Overhead Electrical Upgrade; Dentonia Park Avenue Overhead Rebuild Phase 1A 
  • Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Work: Glen Manor Drive 
  • REVISED: Hydro Work – Danforth Overhead Rebuild Phase 2A 

City Wide News/Events

  • Community Environment Days 
  • Gardiner Expressway Rehabilitation Project 🆕
  • International Women Achievers Awards 2024
  • Return of Professional Women’s Hockey to Toronto 🆕
  • Theatre: Scarborough Theatre Guild – Appointment with Death 🆕
  • Tips to Beat the Heat  
  • Torontonians encouraged to explore farmers’ markets as summer arrives in the city 

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. 


Updates & Announcements from City Hall

City Hall Updates

Council met at the end of July. I was happy to move the motion to accept $73 million from the provincial government to accelerate work on the Gardiner through 24/7 construction. We expect this could save one year of construction time, allowing the project to be done by April 2026. I also moved a motion asking staff to re-build the on- and off-ramps to the east end faster than currently planned, as I know how challenging it has been since those connections came down. I will continue advocating to get this project done faster so you can more easily get around Toronto.

I also put forward a motion to update the city’s community bake oven rental policy, which hasn’t been updated since 2011. I know the Fairmount Park and Dentonia Park bake ovens are much-loved community assets, and I agree with community members that there is room for improvement to make it easier and more affordable for groups to use these assets. I’m looking forward to Council receiving the recommendations early next year.

Small Business Spotlight :sparkles:

In honor of Emancipation Month, in this edition’s small business spotlight, I’m glad to highlight Mary’s Brigadeiro, a vibrant Black-owned business that adds a touch of sweetness to our community.

Known for their delectable brigadeiros and warm, welcoming atmosphere, @marysbrigadeiro is a must-visit gem in the East End.

You can find them at 1912 Danforth Ave.

Photo of Owner Mary Oliveira by Katherine Kwan 

Local Events

The Beach BIA presents: Movie Nights in The Beach 

Wednesday evenings are perfect for free family movies. Come and join in the fun at Kew Gardens!

Thrift Tuesday Clothing Sale 

St. Luke’s Church is hosting Thrift Tuesday Clothing Sales all summer long. Stop by, find some great new clothes and support our local community organizations. 

Monarch Park 70s High School Reunion 🆕

Calling all alumni! Join in for the Monarch Park 70s High School Reunion on August 24th at the Balmy Beach Club.

Come enjoy a BBQ, live music, catch up with old friends and share cherished memories. Amazing silent auction items, and most importantly connect with our past teachers. 

Any proceeds go towards the Monarch Park support fund. 

Visit Monarchparkreunion.ca for more information or call Michelle Duncan 416-427-3525.

Community Programs & Employment Events

Annual Toronto Nature Stewards 

Please visit https://torontonaturestewards.org/ for more information and to register.   

BCS Annual Summer Sports 2024 🆕

BCS is hosting its 20th Youth Summer Sports & Soccer Tournament on August 24 and 25, 2024, for boys and girls.

You can register here: https://forms.gle/AXw8GGazwETrAMuL7 

Centre 55 – Community Seniors’ Classes 

Centre 55 will be offering four classes this summer off-site. Seniors Summer Classes will begin on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 and end on Thursday, August 29, 2024. Check out the schedule below: 

Norwood Park – Instructor: Janice May                 

  • Gentle Fitness (Thursday – 10:30 am). This class will include a fun full body workout in the great outdoors!

Creswell Dance Academy – Instructor: Stewart Moracen

  • Level 1: Gentle Flow (Thursday – 4:30 pm) This class has a half hour of basic standing stretches and will include a wind down of a half hour chair stretches combined with light weights. This is a great class for beginners and if you are recovering from anybody issues.
  • Level 2: Fitness (Tuesday – 4:30 pm) This class is for people who are active and want to keep up their fitness goals and practice.
  • Chair Yoga  (Wednesday – 4:30 pm) This class involves getting in-tune with your breath and concentrating on body positions. We also include basic stretches and focus on positivity to help you feel more confident and energized throughout your day.

Registration is open If you are interested in enrolling in any of these classes, please email me once with the below information.

  • ‘SUBJECT – SENIORS SUMMER CLASSES’
  • Your full name (first and last name)
  • The name(s) of the classes you would like to register for
  • Your email address, and
  • Your phone number

Email all questions to Jade Maitland (Program Director – Community Centre 55) at [email protected].

Centre 55 Mural Program 

Are you looking to enhance your outdoor space with some artwork? The Community Centre 55 summer mural program is just around the corner!

Contact Jade Maitland (Program Director – Community Centre 55) for more information – [email protected] or 416-691-1113.

City’s Commemorative Tree and Bench Program 🆕

Through the program, members of the public can pay tribute to a loved one by dedicating a tree or park bench in a City park. More details are available on the City’s Commemorative Tree & Bench Program webpage.

The City is reviewing its Commemorative Tree and Bench Program and wants your feedback! Share your thoughts on the program through an online survey here.

You do not need to have previous experience with the Commemorative Tree and Bench Program to respond to this survey.

The deadline to complete the survey is Thursday, August 22.

City of Toronto’s Identify ‘N Impact (INI) Youth Grant Program 

Open Call for the City of Toronto’s Identify ‘N Impact (INI) Youth Grant Program

Do you have a passion for improving your community? Are you a youth-led group (ages 15-29) with a great idea that needs funding?  Consider applying for a grant to help make an impact in your community.

The 2024 Identify ‘N Impact grant program is open for applications. Toronto based youth-led groups can apply through the Toronto Grants, Rebates and Incentives Portal (TGRIP) up until 5 p.m. on Thursday, August 15, 2024.

Identify ‘N’ Impact (INI) was initiated through the advocacy efforts of the Toronto Youth Cabinet (TYC), the City of Toronto’s official youth advocacy body. Since 2006, the City of Toronto’s Identify ‘N Impact Grant Program continues to provide funding supports for youth-led initiatives in Toronto.

Tip: Use the Find Your Neighbourhood tool here to find out which neighbourhood you live in or are offering your project activities in. Filter results in the search to see the Neighbourhood Improvement Areas (NIAs)

Upcoming INI Grant Information Sessions

The virtual INI grant information sessions will provide an overview of the INI grant guidelines and TGRIP-based online application form, including the project work plan and budget. City staff will also provide grant writing tips and best practices. 

Please read the INI grant guidelines and visit the City of Toronto’s INI web pagefor grant information session dates.  You only need to attend one session.

If you have questions about the INI grant program, please contact:
Suzanne Paes, Agency Review Officer at [email protected]
Asmaa Mohamed, Community Development Officer at [email protected]

Housing Help Centre Workshops 

The Housing Secretariat has collaborated with Housing Help Centres and Toronto Public Library to offer free in-person workshops at selected Toronto Public Library locations across the city.

Applicants can join a session to learn:

  • how to apply for subsidized housing
  • how to apply or sign up an existing application through the MyAccesstoHousingTO website
  • how to manage their account

Applicants can reserve a seat at a session through our website or call the Application Support Centre at 416-338-8888.

The following sessions will be held at our ward in Beaches-East York.

Location: Main Street Public Library, 137 Main Street.

Dates & times:

August 14, 1-4pm         

August 21, 1-4pm

New Beginnings for Newcomers🆕

Access Alliance MHCS is excited to announce that we will be running a Support Group for Newcomer Women in person at Access Point On Danforth, on 3079 Danforth Ave, every Wednesday from July 03, to Aug 21, 2024, From 1:30 to 3:30 PM.

Join their women-support group to learn about important settlement topics, and connect with other newcomer women to have a smooth integration into Canadian society.

If there are any questions or concerns, please contact Mariam Spanos, Settlement Worker at [email protected]

Palliative Caregiver Support and Walking Group 

  1. What is a Palliative Caregiver Support Group?  It is a program designed to support caregivers of loved ones who are living with and dying from a life limiting illnesses.  The following are just some of the illness: ALS, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, Heart or Kidney disease, Cancer, COPD and many others. Our program is now open to the community so we can support more caregivers and related clients. Many families are isolated due to caring for someone in their family. Please refer clients and caregivers to our program.

We are excited to share that we have an 8-week Palliative Caregiver Support Group that started on Monday July 8 to September 9 from 3:30-5:00 PM on Zoom. Open to new caregivers. For more information call or to register through our Palliative intake at 416-642-9445 #4111 or emailing [email protected]

PROBUS Club of Toronto – Waterfront Queens Quay and Beaches area 

Currently, there are several PROBUS clubs in Toronto and GTA but not in the south Waterfront Queens Quay to Beaches area. Although the information meeting has already happened, if you are interested in joining please contact [email protected] or visit https://www.probuscanada.ca/ for more information.

Queer Youth United  

Queer Youth United (QYU) at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave. every Thursday from 4-7pm.

QYU is is a 2SLGBTQ+ youth group for ages 15-29, where you can come and engage with others in a safe space within the community, while sharing meals, finding support and resources. 

You are welcome to drop-by at any time during the 4pm-7pm time period!

For more info: instagram.com/QueerYouthUnited or beachunitedchurch.com

Scarborough Bluffs West EA Project 

The Terms of Reference is the first step in the Individual Environmental Assessment (EA) process. It outlines the approach that the project team will take to completing the EA including the development and evaluation of alternative methods and approaches to future consultation. It also includes an overview of existing conditions in the area, issues and opportunities to be addressed in the EA, and the results of consultation so far.  

Once finalized, the Terms of Reference will be submitted to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks for review and approval this fall. The public will have one more opportunity to review and provide comments on the Terms of Reference at this time. Pending approval of the Terms of Reference, the EA process can formally commence. This is expected to take place in early 2025.  

You can learn more about the study process on the project website.  

Public consultation on the development of the Terms of Reference was conducted with residents, property owners, interest groups, urban Indigenous organizations, Treaty Holders and Indigenous communities throughout late 2023 and 2024. You can review a summary of these consultations in the Consultation Record

report summarizing feedback from Round Two of the consultation this past May is also now available.

To submit comments:

  • Enter your comments via the online feedback form
  • Email [email protected]
  • Call to leave a message or discuss with staff: 416-338-2850
  • Mail to: Public Consultation Unit, 19th Floor, Metro Hall, 55 John Street, Toronto, ON, M5V 3C6

To review and submit comments on the Terms of Reference before August 7, please visit the study webpage.

SCHC – Fall Bereavement Support Groups 

Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities is a not-for-profit organization that provides a variety of holistic programs to support the health and well-being of the community. One of the programs offered is the Bereavement Peer – Support Groups. They provide several different types of virtual and in-person options. 

For more information, please visit: SCHC – Bereavement Care.

Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance (SAHM) Program

The Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance (SAHM) program has been organized to support the seniors community with services ranging from garden and yard work to light housekeeping. 

If you or anyone you know is looking for more assistance around their home, contact Kevin at 416-531-8447 or email [email protected] for more information.

The BikeMatchWCN Program🆕

The BikeMatchWCN program provides bikes to families from all over the city. Now in its fourth year, this program has provided more than 350 people with a bike to ride. Yet, the need continues to grow. There are more than 500 people registered to receive a bike from toddlers to adults and all sizes in between. In collaboration with the WCN, Access Alliance will continue organizing bicycle giveaways as a way to recycle and repurpose donated bicycles and further remove barriers to cycling in our city.

To register for the giveaway program, we ask our community members to visit this link and register to choose from available bikes matching their criteria and time and date for pick up. https://bikematchwcn.com/

Donations

We accept donations of bicycles, bike parts, accessories, and tools at our AccessPoint on Danforth location, and Lawrence-Orton location. Below you can find the address and hours of each location. The most needed bike sizes are adult medium, small and extra small.

AccessPoint on Danforth (3079 Danforth Ave. M1L 1A8. Entrance on Thora Ave.)

Sunday: CLOSED

Monday: 9:30am to 4:30pm

Tuesday: 9:30am to 4:30pm

Wednesday: 1:00pm to 4:30pm

Thursday: 9:30am to 4:30pm

Saturday: CLOSED

Lawrence-Orton (3939 Lawrence Ave E. M1G 1R9. Building 1. Enter via North side door.)

Sunday: CLOSED

Monday: CLOSED

Tuesday: 2:00pm to 6:00pm

Wednesday: CLOSED

Thursday: CLOSED

Friday: 11:00am to 4:00pm

Saturday: CLOSED

*We kindly ask that donations not be left outside of our hubs, as scrap metal recyclers may pick it up before us.

The Neighbourhood Group – Job Assistance 

The Neighbourhood Group is offering FREE Employment Services to help you prepare for and find work. Whether you’re out of school and looking for a job, new to Canada and want your first Canadian work experience, looking to change your career, or trying to get back into the workforce, they have various training programs, work placements, workshopsonline job board, and resource centres.

For more information, visit The Neighbourhood Group.

Thorncliffe Park Youth Wellness Hub 

We’re thrilled to share that in-person services are available at the Thorncliffe Park Youth Wellness Hub, a new welcoming space at East York Town Centre that provides health, wellness, employment and other services for youth and young adults! To access services, come by the Thorncliffe Park Youth Wellness Hub during its drop-in hours: Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

It is located at East York Town Centre, 45 Overlea Blvd. (Please use mall Entrance 6; the Youth Wellness Hub is located beside Dollarama). All services are free and open to everyone aged 12 to 25. Youth and young adults do not need a health card, family doctor or medical referral. Services include wellness counselling, peer support, employment services, settlement services, food support, primary care and more. No matter what you might be dealing with, their team can help.

For more information, please visit Thorncliffe Youth Club or follow them on Instagram @ThorncliffeYouthHub.

Toronto Community Crisis Team 55 and 53-Division Expansion 

The Toronto Community Crisis Team will be expanding city-wide to include 55 and 53 Divisions beginning July 7th 2024.

Operated in partnership with the Gerstein Crisis Centre, the team will act as first responders to community members witnessing or experiencing a crisis situation.

This is a community led response alternate to policing or medical models which was voted on unanimously by City Council.

The team can be accessed 24/7 by calling 211. More information can be found by going to https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/public-safety-alerts/community-safety-programs/toronto-community-crisis-service 

This community-based, trauma-informed, accessible and equity-focused approach staffed by qualified crisis workers provides an opportunity for a health and social response instead of a justice/police response to mental health and substance use crises in our communities. 

Toronto Police Service Board’s public consultation for a Public Order Policy 

As you may be aware, Ontario Regulation 392/23: Adequate and Effective Policing (General) made under the Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019 (Act), requires, among other things, that police service boards establish a policy on police action in respect of protests, demonstrations and occupations.

The policing of protests, demonstrations and occupations poses a complex and delicate challenge, as the Toronto Police Service is required to respect the constitutional rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly of all people, while also ensuring community safety and preserving the peace.

Due to the unique complexity and considerable public interest in this matter, the Board is seeking the public’s input on the overriding principles and key elements that should be a part of this policy.

Additional information on the consultation is available on their website: https://www.tpsb.ca/public-order-policy

YEDI’s Not-for-Profit Program 🆕

YEDI’s Not-for-Profit Program is accepting applications now.

Over the span of a few months, students will immerse themselves in a specialized curriculum tailored to the unique needs of not-for-profit organizations, learning how to raise funds, how to pitch your organization, how to budget and plan financially, and about tax and legal implications specific to not-for-profits. Applications close Friday, August 30. Learn more and apply.

Neighbourhood News

Circular Materials Beverage Cup Pilot 

Starting July 3, 2024, Toronto residents can place their hot (e.g., coffee and tea) and cold (e.g., fountain drinks) paper-based beverage cups in their Blue Bin recycling at home and other eligible locations (e.g., multi-residential homes and long-term care and retirement homes). 
 
Toronto has been chosen as the first municipality to implement the change due to its population size and the volume of hot and cold paper cup waste generated. 

Learn more about the beverage cup pilot in Toronto at https://www.circularmaterials.ca/city-of-toronto-hot-and-cold-beverage-cup-pilot/.

City of Toronto Taking Actions to Address Dangerous Dog Behaviour

As directed by Toronto City Council, the City is visiting owners of all dogs who have received a dangerous dog order. Staff are delivering a new standardized sign for owners of these dangerous dogs, which must be visibly posted on their property. Staff will also remind owners of the requirements of their dangerous dog order. Following these proactive visits, staff will continue to conduct regular compliance checks and respond to complaints to ensure compliance.

The City has also posted a public list of dangerous dogs that includes the first three digits of the postal code for the dog owner, ward number, the dog’s name, breed and colour, and the date of the dangerous act at: toronto.ca/DangerousDogs.

Most dog attacks can be prevented if dogs are kept on a leash. Residents are reminded that it is a bylaw requirement for all dog owners to keep their dogs on leashes when out in public (except when in designated dogs off-leash areas). The most impactful action owners can undertake is prevention. If residents observe a dog they believe to have a dangerous dog designation without its muzzle or in an off-leash dog park, a complaint can be made to 311 and the matter will be investigated. City of Toronto taking actions to address dangerous dog behaviour.

We understand the importance of exercise for your beloved pet. However, it is important to practice Responsible Dog Ownership and keep your dog on leash in areas that are not marked off as official dog off-leash areas. 

Please take the time to visit the following dogs off-leash areas in Beaches-East York by visiting the interactive map.

Be a good neighbour and be mindful of your surroundings! 

Work in the Ward

Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Work; Project 351 – Woodbine Avenue

The boundaries for the project include a section of Woodbine Avenue and Norway Avenue. The work is expected to begin in August 2024.

Please refer to the map below to see the exact location.

Toronto Hydro Underground Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project Massey – Crescent Town 

Toronto Hydro are pleased to inform you that they will be improving the electricity system in our ward. 

The boundaries for the project include a section of Crescent Town Road and Massey Square. They expect the work to begin July 2024.

O’Connor/Woodbine Construction Update: August 2024 

The streetscape project along O’Connor Drive is progressing and the road base and sidewalks are being reconstructed on the east side. The contractor continues to replace and restore sidewalks and curbs north of St. Clair Ave and will continue with the road reconstruction south of St. Clair Ave.  

Repaving has also begun along Woodbine Avenue from Danforth to O’Connor. I know this is adding to the frustrations and delays of many people trying to get around. When this work was originally proposed to happen last year, my office pushed to delay the start of the project so it would not happen until the O’Connor project was completed. Unfortunately, due to contracts that had already been signed, it was no longer possible to hold off on the work.

My office has been pushing for an acceleration of all of this project work, including extended hours and weekend work whenever possible, so we can reopen lanes and help you get moving.

Thank you for your patience during this critical infrastructure work. I hope you will continue to reach out to my office with any concerns.

Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Halsey Avenue 

Toronto Hydro is pleased to inform you they will be improving the electricity system in our ward.

The boundaries for the project include a section of Halsey Avenue. They expect the work to begin July 2024.

Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project Danforth 

Toronto Hydro is pleased to inform you they will be improving the electricity system in our ward. 

The boundaries for the project include Dentonia Park Avenue (North), Victoria Park Avenue (East), Danforth Avenue (South), and Eldon Avenue (West). Work began in March and will continue through January 2025.

Toronto Hydro Overhead Electrical Upgrade; Project Dentonia Park Avenue Overhead Rebuild Phase 1A 

Toronto Hydro is hard at work to improve the electricity system in Ward 19. Please see the detailed graphic below for more information.

The boundaries for the project include Rosevear Avenue (North), Victoria Park Avenue (East), Dentonia Park Avenue (South), and Dawes Road (West). 

Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Work: Glen Manor Drive 

Toronto Hydro will be conducting further infrastructure upgrades in our community. Please see the detailed graphic below for more information.

The boundaries for the project include a section of Glen Manor Drive between Duart Park Road (North) and Queen Street East (South). 

REVISED: Hydro Work – Danforth Overhead Rebuild Phase 2A 

Toronto Hydro is currently doing some upgrades on Danforth. The boundaries for the project include Dentonia Park Avenue (North), Thyra Avenue (East), Danforth Avenue (South), and Avonlea Boulevard (West). 

City Wide News/Events 

Community Environment Days

Community Environment Days play a crucial role in our waste reduction efforts, aligning with the City’s Long Term Waste Management Strategy. These events help divert reusable and recyclable waste from landfills while providing a safe disposal option for household hazardous waste.

This 2024, there are 47 in-community events happening from April to September. Additionally, Community Environment Days will be held at Drop-Off Depots on Sundays in July and August, offering even more opportunities for participation.

Click here to see all dates and locations

Gardiner Expressway Rehabilitation Project 🆕

On July 24, the City of Toronto and the Province of Ontario announced updates on a plan to accelerate Gardiner Expressway construction work and improve traffic flows. This will permit 24/7 construction and moves the expected completion date up to April 2026 instead of April 2027 – shaving one year off the timeline.

Thanks to all of you for joining me in advocating to accelerate this project work. I’m also happy to share that my motion passed which asked staff to accelerate the future phase that will rebuild the on- and off-ramps to the east end (east of Cherry Street).

Find more information on the City’s Gardiner Section 2: Dufferin Street to Strachan Avenue webpage.

International Women Achievers Awards 2024 

Pat Silver, Beach Citizen of the Year 2010, was acknowledged by the International Women Achievers Awards 2024 for her contribution to arts and culture. Based in Brampton, Ontario, IWAA honours exceptional women internationally.

The ceremony underscores the paramount role played by women in society while appreciating their attitudes, initiatives, willpower, and perseverance. These are women who have excelled in different spheres of life; who distinguished themselves as prominent citizens; and who displayed strong mettle and capability to perform well in any field of endeavour, and who made positive, significant changes in their communities.

In her acceptance speech, Pat said, “the arts are the heart and soul of Canada. I encourage everyone to embrace their creativity. Join a choir, pick up a paintbrush, go to a concert, visit a museum. Your life will be enriched by the experience.”  Pat is the Co-Founder of Canada’s premier a cappella festival SING! The Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival. She is an award-winning composer, multi-instrumentalist, talent agent, and author.  She has lived in the Beach with her family for more than 40 years.

On a personal note, I have the pleasure of knowing Pat personally and I’m thrilled she’s been recognized with this award. Congratulations!

Return of Professional Women’s Hockey to Toronto 🆕

Last week, Council celebrated the return of professional women’s hockey to Toronto with @pwhl_toronto.

It was great to see and congratulate Sarah Nurse, who also supported our community by participating in the CrushCOVID livestream fundraiser that we organized to support Michael Garron Hospital.

Scarborough Theatre Guild: Appointment with Death 🆕

Longing to travel to an exotic locale? Love solving murder mysteries? Enjoy the intimacy of a small, local Community Theatre experience?

Well then…Scarborough Theatre Guild’s production of Agatha Christie’s Appointment with Deathis sure to fit the bill. Tickets on sale now! The show opens September 13 and runs until September 28. 

  • Evening and matinee show times are available 
  • Free parking
  • Located within the Scarborough Village Recreation Centre (Markham/Kingston Roads)
  • The premises are wheelchair accessible
  • Groups of 10 or more get a further discount on the already affordable ticket prices!

For more info, visit APPOINTMENT WITH DEATH – Scarborough Theatre Guild

Tips to Beat the Heat 

Protect your health from heat this summer. Visit toronto.ca/KeepCool for more information. 

Torontonians encouraged to explore farmers’ markets as summer arrives in the city

As Torontonians welcome the summer season, the City of Toronto is encouraging residents and visitors to explore farmers’ markets across the city, from Etobicoke to Scarborough and everywhere in between.

Farmers’ markets play an active role in the local food supply chain, provide Torontonians with access to fresh foods, and give residents another reason to get outside, explore communities across the city and support the local agriculture sector.

There are 22 farmers’ markets hosted at City sites across Toronto, including:

  • Civic centres: East York Civic Centre, Etobicoke Civic Centre, Mel Lastman Square and Nathan Phillips Square
  • Parks: Baird Park, Dieppe Park, Dufferin Grove Park, East Lynn Park, Flemingdon Park, Greenwood Park, Humber Bay West Park, June Rowlands Park, Masaryk Park, Riverdale Park West, Rosebank Park, R.V. Burgess Park, Sorauren Avenue Park, Trinity Bellwoods Park, Underpass Park, Withrow Park and Wychwood Barns Park
  • Toronto Museums and Historic Sites: Montgomery’s Inn

The City-operated Saturday Farmers’ Market at the St. Lawrence Market is open for visitors to explore every Saturday from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m., year-round. The St. Lawrence Market is a renowned international food market featuring 120 merchants, vendors and farmers, offering fresh produce, meat and specialty items.

More information, including a list of farmers’ markets in Toronto, is available on the City’s 311 webpage: https://www.toronto.ca/home/311-toronto-at-your-service/find-service-information/article/?kb=kA06g000001cwKaCAI.