E-News: February 22, 2025

ByBrad Bradford

Hi Friend,

It’s been almost two weeks since the first of four major snowstorms have hit Toronto. I have heard from many of you who are frustrated and angry with the city’s response after the storm.

I know many streets are still barely passable, including school zones and sidewalks. This is unacceptable and unsustainable. For every case that you have shared, I have escalated with senior city staff asking that it be addressed. I encourage you to also report these to 311, which helps the city identify priority areas.

While snow removal has now started, including on some streets in our ward, I agree with many of you that the response has been too slow. The possibility of it taking up to three more weeks to deal with this—in a winter city—is mind-boggling, particularly after another significant property tax increase this year. Other cities like Ottawa have had a much faster response, spread over a larger geography and at nearly half the cost. It’s unfortunately another example of paying more and getting less.

In addition to doing everything I can to improving the plow and snow removal response in our community, I’ve been focused on pushing for more accountability and better performance with existing city resources to ensure this does not happen again. 

Basic services must be a priority, especially when taxes are rising. 

❄️🍁❄️

With economic and political threats being raised to our sovereignty by President Trump, there has never been a more important time to reflect on our Canadian identity and pride (including that fantastic overtime win on Thursday night!).

February 15 marked the 60th anniversary of the Canadian Flag. For six decades, our flag has been a unifying symbol of our strength, sovereignty, and pride. I shared some thoughts on Facebook and Instagram. Long live the maple leaf—true patriot love, friends. 

And speaking of true Canadian pride, not even the cold could stop us. Last week, I had the chance to help officially open Winter Stations, back for another year. 

The 2025 winners created installations that truly capture the imagination of our city.

You can visit the public exhibition between February 17 and March 30 at Woodbine Beach.

Earlier this month, we paid tribute to a beloved community leader, Sarah McComb. Alongside her family, friends, and the Beaches community, we unveiled a laneway in her honour—a lasting tribute to a remarkable woman whose kindness and dedication continue to inspire.

Sarah made a lasting impact in the Beaches, and her legacy lives on through the Rock with Love concert, supporting cancer research at St. Mike’s. Her memory will forever be a guiding light in our community.

And yesterday, we gathered at Dentonia Park to commemorate Ekushey February – International Mother Language Day.

On February 21 in 1952, brave souls sacrificed their lives for the right to speak in their mother tongue, Bengali. Language is more than words—it’s our heritage, pride, and connection to our roots. Let’s remember that as we embrace all of the cultures and histories that make us proud to be Canadian.

As always, let me know how my team and I can help you. And remember, shop local and shop Canadian.

Stay warm, and I’ll see you around the community.

Warmly,

 – Brad


In This Issue

City Hall Update

Local Events 

  • TOMORROW: Feb. 23: GF Händel’s Coronation Anthems
  • Feb. 24: Author Reading with Roxana Spicer  
  • Feb. 25: Laneway & Garden Suite Seminar 
  • Feb. 25: CC55 Members AGO Trip 🆕 
  • Feb. 25, 26, 27, and 28: Model Train Shows 
  • Feb. 27: Are You Calling Me a Racist? 🆕 
  • Mar. 1: An Evening of Dancing with the Uptown Swing Band! 
  • Mar. 1: Jazz & Reflection with Sheila Brand & Friends 🆕 
  • Mar. 1 – Mar. 20: Light It Up Free Lantern-Making Program🆕 
  • Mar. 4: St. Luke’s Church Pancake Supper on Shrove 🆕
  • Mar. 6: Senior Active Living Fair 🆕
  • Mar. 8: Discovering Sansa Kromah: A Journey Through Music and Storytelling 🆕
  • Mar. 10: Cancer in the Era of Personalized Medicine 🆕
  • March 17: Collage Making Workshop 🆕
  • Mar. 1-20 and 22: Light It Up Lantern-Making and Parade 🆕
  • Mar. 28: Jukebox Friday Night with Fraser/Daley and Skylark 🆕

Community Programs & Employment

  • Access Alliance Snow Removal Program 🆕
  • Access Alliance Snow RemovalProgram: Shovellers Wanted 2024-2025 🆕
  • African Heritage Program 
  • Application for the 2025 TPS Youth in Policing Program 
  • Beaches Sandbox March Break Camp 2025 
  • Call For Casual Workers: Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program 
  • City of Toronto: Get Involved in the Parks and Recreation Facilities Plan 
  • COSTI’s New2Canada Host Program 
  • Free Laundry Access 2025🆕
  • Diverse Workforce Advantage Program 
  • Healthy Child Screening 
  • I Love to SING! 
  • International Languages Elementary Program 
  • Men’s Free Virtual Addiction Treatment Program 
  • Our Fragile Planet 
  • Personalized Career Accelerator Program 
  • Queer Youth United 
  • SCHC – Fall Bereavement Support Groups 
  • Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program 
  • Shaping the Next Toronto Seniors’ Strategy Survey 🆕
  • Tax Volunteers Needed 
  • TDSB’s Learn4Life Program 
  • The Neighbourhood Group – Job Assistance 
  • Thorncliffe Park Youth Wellness Hub 
  • VHT Program 
  • Volunteer Call-Out Meals on Wheels
  • 2025 Toronto Community Champion Award Program 

Neighbourhood News 

  • City of Toronto Taking Actions to Address Dangerous Dog Behaviour

Work in the Ward

  • Toronto Hydro Upgrades 
  • Pre-Construction Notice – Cranfield Rd. Watermain Replacement Projects 

City Wide News/Events 

  • CaféTO Returns: Curb Lane Applications and Renewals 
  • Cathedral Bluffs Symphony Orchestra Season 
  • City of Toronto Winter Operations – Winter Safety
  • City of Toronto Expands Administrative Penalty System to Include Automated Road Safety Tools 
  • Earl Bales Ski and Snowboard Centre Opened Now 
  • Getting Ready for Tax Season in Canada 
  • Tennis and Pickleball Court Program – Ward 19

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. 


City Hall Update

On February 11th, City Council passed Mayor Chow’s 2025 city budget, the largest in Toronto’s history at a record–breaking $1.8 billion.

Because of the enormous economic uncertainty caused by President Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on Canadian goods, I believe that City Council should demonstrate to our local businesses that we have their backs with real action. 

Our best line of defense is to make Toronto the most attractive city in the world to build a business, invest capital, and create jobs. That’s why I introduced motions proposing 25% property tax relief for manufacturers and small businesses across our city. This proposal would have provided urgent relief to nearly 3,500 industrial businesses and 30,000 small businesses in Toronto.

Unfortunately, the Mayor and her allies voted against providing this urgent financial relief. While this is a setback, I’m going to continue fighting to strengthen our economy and the small business ecosystem here in Toronto.

Local Events

GF Händel’s Coronation Anthems 

Toronto Beach Chorale, a choir that has a strong presence in the Beach community, will have an exciting concert tomorrow on February 23, 2025, 2:00 pm.  

We will perform GF Händel’s Coronation Anthems.  

This is a rare opportunity to experience this masterpiece in a small, intimate setting at St Aidan’s in the Beach Church, 2423 Queen Street East.

Come to enjoy with us this bright music in cold February! 

Author Reading with Roxana Spicer

On February 24, 2025 at 7:30pm, Roxana Spicer will be reading from her book The Traitor’s Daughter with a Q&A to follow.

We will also be giving away one copy of the book at the event! Pay-what-you-can with proceeds going towards Beach United’s Community Programs. 

This event will be held at the Beach United Church on 140 Wineva Ave. 

More info: beachunitedchurch.com

Laneway & Garden Suite Seminar 

FEBRUARY 25 2025 AT 7:00PM EST

Introducing a Laneway and Garden Suite seminar hosted by Lanescape and The Richards Group!

We will be discussing the realities, challenges and opportunities involved with garden/laneway suites, while walking you through the process to developing your property.

This free, public seminar will feature Lanescape’s co-founder and Architect, Craig Race along with Sales Representative Rachel Cockrell from The Richards Group.

This event will be held in person at 2181 Queen Street East, Toronto and streamed online via zoom. We look forward to having you join us!

Register here

Model Train Shows

The Model Railroad Club of Toronto celebrates Family Day!

See a world where mighty trains bring people and freight to cities, ports and industries. Sometimes deep in the forest, or over the mountains, across high bridges and by majestic waterfalls. Find the Romance of the Rails at the Model Railroad Club of Toronto.

The Club appeals both to a child’s sense of wonder and discovery and an adult’s interest in technology, visual arts and history. Folks interested in a new hobby can see what it’s all about!

Today is the last day to check it out: Saturday, February 22, 2025

From 11 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Purchase tickets at the door: cash, debit, credit card
Children $10, Seniors $12, Adults $15, Family rate (max. 5 people, max. 2 adults): $45.

Location: 11 Curity Avenue, Toronto M4B 1X4  
Note: basement location – not wheelchair accessible
Parking is free, and TTC access is via the 91 Woodbine Bus from Woodbine Station

Email: [email protected]   

Phone: 416-536-8927

http://www.modelrailroadclub.com

CC55 Members AGO Trip 🆕

For our February Members Trip consider joining us on our Tuesday, February 25th AGO Experience for private & curated tours and treats!

We will be leaving the Centre at 10:15AM and travelling by luxury coach bus to the Art Gallery of Ontario for a private Collection Highlights tour. Afterwards we will enjoy a curated & private AGO Bistro luncheon, followed by your personal exploration of one of the most distinguished art collections in North America!  https://ago.ca/collection

We aim to return to the Centre by approximately 5:15 pm. The official CC55 February Members Trip FLYER is attached.

You can ONLY GET YOUR SPOT(S) by contacting Jennifer by emailing [email protected] to arrange payment for your special $100 ticket. Your ticket is all-inclusive and includes the cost of the Luncheon, Coach Canada Transportation, AGO Admission & Private Tour cost. Payment must be made upon booking, and your email request must include your phone number and emergency contact information.  Cancellations must be made by 9am February 21st  to receive a refund.

Are You Calling Me a Racist? 🆕 

Presented by Dr. Sarita Srivastava, Professor of Sociology, and Dean of Arts & Science at OCAD University in Toronto.

An Evening of Dancing with the Uptown Swing Band!

Saturday, March 1, 2025 8:00pm-11:00pm

$30 per person – Cash bar

Hope United Church Hall  – 2550 Danforth Ave. Toronto

Tickets online at hopeunited.ca.

This event will support the restoration of the stained glass windows at Hope United

Jazz & Reflection with Sheila Brand & Friends 🆕

Saturday, March 1st at 4:30pm 

We are excited to present local jazz vocalist Sheila Brand, joined by Beach United’s Music Director Dr. Steven Webb on piano, and Malcolm Connor on bass as they present a selection of vocal jazz favorites to welcome in the start of spring. 

Tickets are pay-what-you-can, with a suggested minimum of $15.

Location: Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave.

More info: beachunitedchurch.com

St. Luke’s Church Pancake Supper on Shrove Tuesday 🆕

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

On March 4th, 2024 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, the St. Luke’s Anglican Church is having a Pancake Supper on Shrove Tuesday. 

Location: 904 Coxwell Ave at St. Luke’s Anglican Church

Seniors Active Living Fair 🆕

You’re invited to our annual SENIORS ACTIVE LIVING FAIR. 

On Thursday, March 6, from 10AM – 2PM, Centre 55 is hosting this much anticipated event at the Beaches Sandbox, 2181 Queen St. E. Toronto, 2nd floor.

Join us for an informative and FREE day of workshops, active demonstrations, health clinics, healthy snacks and health related exhibitors featuring unique services and products to keep you independent and active! From interactive cooking classes, an immersive sound bath experience,  fitness, cardio & yoga classes and an abundance of wellness and lifestyle information and current trends, we are offering a day of unique experiences for the community.

Please contact Jennifer at 416-691-1113 or [email protected]  for more information.

No registration required.

Discovering Sansa Kromah: A Journey Through Music and Storytelling 🆕

Cancer in the Era of Personalized Medicine 🆕

Collage Making Workshop 🆕

Light It Up 🆕

Calling all East Enders! This March you’re invited to join East End Arts, Shadowland Theatre, and Workman Arts for the fifth annual Light It Up Lantern Celebration! Together, let’s celebrate the Spring Equinox by filling the east end with lanterns of light and love!

The steps to participate are easy.

Step 1: Make your own lantern! You can make your own lantern at home or at one of six FREE lantern-making workshops taking place at the Crescent Town Club and St. Matthew’s Clubhouse on Thursdays + Saturdays from March 1-20.

Step 2: On Saturday March 22, at 6:30pm, bring your completed lanterns to the Light It Up Lantern Parade in Taylor Creek Park to share some light with the east Toronto community ❤️!

Learn more and register here: https://eastendarts.ca/light-it-up-2025/  

Jukebox Friday Night with Fraser/Daley and Skylark 🆕

Friday, March 28th at 7pm 

Doors open at 6:30pm

Get your song requests ready and dancing shoes on! Fraser/Daley are back by popular demand and they’re taking your song requests.

Early bird tickets are $40 until the end of February – tickets go up to $50 afterwards. There will be a silent auction, 50/50 draw, cash bar & sweets table. All proceeds help support Beach United’s year-round community programs. 

Tickets & more info: beachunitedchurch.com 

Location: Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave. 

Community Programs & Employment Events

Access Alliance Snow Removal Program 🆕

Access Alliance Snow Removal Program: Shovellers Wanted 2024-2025 🆕

Attention: Adults and Students (18+) 

Access Alliance is now recruiting snow shovellers to serve seniors in our community. 

Recruitment Period: February 2025 

Rate: $20 per hour (minimum one hour pay per assignment) 

Service Areas:

  • Ward 14: Toronto-Danforth 
  • Ward 15: Don Valley West 
  • Ward 19: Beaches-East York
  • Ward 20: Scarborough South-West

Serving Period: February to March 31, 2025 

To receive an application package, contact Shaheda at:

  • Phone: (416)-699-7920 ext. 4226
  • Email: [email protected] 
  • In person: 3079 Danforth Avenue, Toronto M1L 1A8

African Heritage Program 

The African Heritage Program offers enriched learning opportunities at selected elementary schools across the TDSB. For more information visit:

https://www.tdsb.on.ca/Elementary-School/Beyond-the-Classroom/International-Languages-Elementary-and-African-Heritage

Application for the 2025 Youth in Policing Program 

Applications for the 2025 Toronto Police Service Youth in Policing initiative are now opened. For more information, visit the link below. 

https://www.tps.ca/youth-policing-initiative

Beaches Sandbox March Break Camp 2025

Looking for an exciting and enriching way to keep your kids, aged 5-10, engaged this March Break? 🌟

Beaches Sandbox, located in the heart of the Beaches neighbourhood, has you covered with our March Break Camp—a week of creativity, adventure, and fun your kids will rave about!

Learn more & register at beachessandbox.com

Call For Casual Workers: Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program 

City of Toronto: Get Involved in the Parks and Recreation Facilities Plan 

Do you have suggestions for improving our Parks and Recreational Facilities? 

The City is looking for public input into the next iteration of the Parkland Strategy and Parks Facilities Plan. 

Community input is important in shaping the future of our public spaces and recreational facilities, and we hope you have the time to share your thoughts.  Together we can make a difference. 

https://www.toronto.ca/parksandfacilitiesplans

COSTI’s New2Canada Host Program 

For the past two years, COSTI’s Ukrainian Housing Host Program has provided Ukrainian newcomers with temporary accommodation in host homes, and it has been a resounding success, having helped 143 of families since the inception.

We are now piloting an expanded initiative—the New2Canada Host Program, supported and funded by United Way Greater Toronto. This new program aims to match skilled workers and provincial nominees with a host family for a short initial stay of a few weeks, until they find their own permanent accommodation. While New2Canada is not intended as a long-term housing solution or a means to address cost-of-living issues, it is designed to offer a warm welcome and a smooth transition for newcomers arriving in Toronto.

Free Laundry Access 2025🆕

Wishy Washy Laundromat hosts monthly Free Laundry events for anyone who is financially struggling.

We are fully funded by Sunlight Canada/Henkel.

Healthy Child Screening

Healthy Child Screening (HCS) is a model for universal access to early identification of children’s special needs.

The screening is a single-point access to health care for families, who can have their children screened at different stations by a health professional. 

This is designed for children 2-6 years of age and is intended to identify any concerns regarding a child’s health, often in terms of development. 

None

I Love to SING!

“I Love to SING!” is launching the winter/spring session.

Do you know someone between the ages of 8 and 14 who loves to sing?  They can join this fun experience FOR FREE! 

Students will learn and sing together with some of the most celebrated vocal coaches in Canada: gospel recording artist Latoya Hall-Downer, renowned tenor Joseph Angelo, operatic and recital soprano Allison Angelo.

Saturdays, 11 am to 12:45 pm at Community Centre 55, 97 Main Street. Toronto

Feb 22, March 1, March 22, Apr 5, Apr 26, May 10

Register for free at: https://singtoronto.tickit.ca/events/27683

International Languages Elementary Program 

The new year is a great time to start learning a new language. The TDSB offers language classes for students in JK to Grade 8, with ongoing enrollment allowed in person. For more information visit:

https://www.tdsb.on.ca/Elementary-School/Beyond-the-Classroom/International-Languages-Elementary-and-African-Heritage

Men’s Free Virtual Addiction Treatment Program 

This is a 10-week virtual community treatment program for men 18+ struggling with addiction and or concurrent disorders. The program includes process groups and lessons about relapse prevention, life skills and more. We meet virtually on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:30-12:30 and all we ask is that all participants are absent from using alcohol or drugs during the program.

Personalized Career Accelerator Program 

The Personalized Career Accelerator program assists newcomers with finding meaningful employment through a wide sector of services.

Queer Youth United  

Queer Youth United (QYU) at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave. every Tuesday 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

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 Program 

Shaping the Next Toronto Seniors’ Strategy Survey 🆕

The City of Toronto Wants to Hear from You! Shaping the next Toronto Seniors’ Strategy
Your experience matters! Are you a senior or an older adult living in the Toronto? If so, we would like to hear from you. The City of Toronto is developing its third Toronto Seniors Strategy and would like feedback on how to better support seniors and older adults.

There are two ways to participate – online and in-person

Share your feedback through an online survey. The survey will take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete and is available in English, French, Greek, Italian, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Tagalog, Tamil, and Traditional Chinese.

You can also join us in-person at a community workshop in your area. Share your experiences and priorities and help us to better understand how the City can improve programs and services for seniors and older adults.

Visit toronto.ca/SeniorsStrategy to learn more about the Toronto Seniors’ Strategy. For more information, contact [email protected].

Tax Volunteers Needed 

WoodGreen’s free tax clinic supports thousands of low-income community members each year to file their tax returns and get access to important credits and benefits.

They have urgent need for committed volunteers to file tax returns either in-person or over-the-phone.

If you have professional financial skills or just experience filing your own tax return, please consider volunteering your time with this effort. 

See the WoodGreen volunteer webpage to apply. 

TDSB’s Learn4Life Program 

Looking for something fun to do this fall? The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) offers a wide range of Adult General Interest and Seniors Daytime classes through the Learn4Life program.

These classes provide an excellent opportunity to learn new skills, stay active, and connect with others in your community.

Led by expert instructors, Learn4Life offers courses in Arts, Business, Computers, Cooking, Crafts, Dance, Finance, Fitness, Languages, Music, Sports, Sewing, and much more!

Registration is open now.

Visit learn4life.ca to learn more.

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.

VHT Program 

The halfway point of the declaration period, the City has received 674,937 declarations – representing more than 80 per cent of all residential properties. The City of Toronto is reminding residential property owners that they must submit their 2024 Vacant Home Tax (VHT) declaration by Wednesday, April 30.  

The VHT program is a crucial part of the City’s efforts to encourage property owners to rent or sell vacant homes to help increase the housing supply in Toronto, helping make homes more affordable. All residential property owners are required to make an annual declaration about whether their property is occupied or vacant. 

It’s easy to declare 

Property owners have several options to submit their occupancy declaration including: 

  • Online: Access the user-friendly portal at www.toronto.ca/VacantHomeTax
  • Phone: Call 311 within Toronto or 416-392-2489 from outside the city to declare in 180 languages. 
  • In-person: Visit a Tax and Utility counter at Toronto City Hall or any civic centre. Find information about locations at www.toronto.ca/InquiryPaymentCounters

Volunteer Call-Out Meals on Wheels 

Help address food insecurity in your community and volunteer to support your neighbours! WoodGreen Meals on Wheels is currently looking for Volunteer Delivery Drivers to help us deliver hot meals to homebound seniors and adults living with disabilities in the East End. Learn more and sign up here.

Neighbourhood News

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 Notices

Check the links below for the full notices on Toronto Hydro work happening near you!

Pre-Construction Notice – Cranfield Rd. Watermain Replacement Projects 

Engineering & Construction Services will be undertaking a watermain replacement project on Cranfield Road from Dohme Avenue to Waterman Avenue.

City Wide News/Events 

Cathedral Bluffs Symphony Orchestra Season 

Offering multiple concerts, the Cathedral Bluffs Symphony Orchestra Season begins this October and continues throughout December in Scarborough.

Visit: https://cathedralbluffs.com/

City of Toronto Winter Operations – Winter Safety 

You can see the winter road maintenance plan here: www.toronto.ca/snow.

City of Toronto Expands Administrative Penalty System to Include Automated Road Safety Tools 

Starting today, the City of Toronto is expanding its Administrative Penalty System (APS) to to make it easier, more convenient and accessible to dispute Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) and Red-Light Camera (RLC) violations. Vehicle owners who receive an ASE or RLC violation that occurred on or after Monday, January 20 can dispute the violation online at toronto.ca/aps.  

In 2017, the City, as part of its commitment to customer service improvements, introduced APS to enable motorists to dispute parking violations through an administrative review process instead of a court-based system. Since its implementation, APS has streamlined the dispute process for parking violations, offering timely, fair and efficient resolution.   

Following the City’s successful introduction of APS for parking violations and its commitment to road safety in the Vision Zero Road Safety Plan (www.toronto.ca/visionzero), the City is now expanding APS to include RLC and ASE violations. Both RLC and ASE are important tools in the Vision Zero plan, which prioritizes the safety of Toronto’s most vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, people cycling, school children and older adults.  

How to request a screening review 

Vehicle owners who receive a RLC or ASE violation that occurred on or after Monday, January 20 can request a screening to dispute a violation.  

Payments can be made online, by mail or in-person at seven City locations. More information about APS, including where payments can be made in-person, is available on the City’s website: www.toronto.ca/aps.  

Earl Bales Ski and Snowboard Centre Opened Now 

It’s time to hit the slopes! 

City of Toronto’s Earl Bales Ski and Snowboard Centre is now open for the season for residents and visitors to enjoy.  

The season starts today and – weather permitting – runs through Sunday, March 16. The City is pleased to offer equipment rentals for both lesson participants and those eager to hit the slopes independently, whether skiing or snowboarding.  

Information about the hours of operation, service alerts and fees for lift tickets, passes and rental equipment can be found on the City’s webpage: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-recreation/places-spaces/parks-and-recreation-facilities/location/?id=2766

Tennis and Pickleball Court Program – Ward 19 

The City is working with communities to collect feedback about upgrades to tennis courts across the city, including improvements to lighting, fencing and court surfaces. The community engagement process will also explore opportunities to introduce new facilities to support the growing sport of pickleball. 

Share your thoughts on the proposed improvements and options for adding pickleball at the courts being improved.

The survey closes on March 3, 2025.

Link for suvery: https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/planning-development/construction-new-facilities/park-facility-projects/city-wide-tennis-pickleball-court-improvements/