Hi Friend,
Happy 2025!
It’s been a very eventful start to the new year. Regardless of any political changes in Ottawa or events south of the border, I’m laser-focused on how to make Beaches-East York, and all of Toronto, an even better place to live.
I hope you had the opportunity to gather with family and friends in these past few weeks. I loved spending more time with Kathryn, my girls and our extended families over the holidays. It was also a special time to come together with neighbours, including one of my favourite traditions: delivering meals on Christmas Day for the East York Christmas Dinner.
I was also honoured to join Rabbi Lezell, teh Chabad of Danforth-Beaches, and many friends to celebrate Hanukkah with the lighting of the menorah in Kew Gardens.
As business at City Hall ramp backs up, and as we prepare to learn more about the Mayor’s 2025 Budget, I am looking forward to hearing your priorities and how to make local government work better for you.
This Sunday, I encourage you to drop by the East York New Year’s Levee, hosted by the East York Hall of Fame and the East York Foundation. My team and I will be there this Sunday, January 12, from 2 PM to 4 PM at the East York Civic Centre (850 Coxwell Avenue).
I’ll be back with more updates soon, but in the meantime, don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything.
Wishing you all the best for this new year.
I’m looking forward to continuing pushing for change and real action to make Toronto a better place.
Warmly,
– Brad
In This Issue
Small Business Spotlight
Ethical Local Market – 1628 Queen St. E 🆕
Local Events
- Councillor Bradford’s New Year’s Skating Party🆕
- Fairmount Park Icemasters Winterfest 🆕
Community Programs & Employment
- African Heritage Program
- Application for the 2025 TPS Youth in Policing Program
- Call For Casual Workers: Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program
- City of Toronto: Get Involved in the Parks and Recreation Facilities Plan
- City of Toronto: Winter Programs
- COSTI’s New2Canada Host Program
- Diverse Workforce Advantage Program 🆕
- International Languages Elementary Program
- Men’s Free Virtual Addiction Treatment Program
- Personalized Career Accelerator Program
- Queer Youth United
- Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program
- SCHC – Fall Bereavement Support Groups
- Tax Volunteers Needed
- TDSB’s Learn4Life Program
- The Neighbourhood Group – Job Assistance
- Thorncliffe Park Youth Wellness Hub
- Volunteer Call-Out Meals on Wheels
- Wishy Washy Laundromat 🆕
- 2025 Toronto Community Champion Award Program 🆕
Neighbourhood News
- City of Toronto Taking Actions to Address Dangerous Dog Behaviour
- Public Meeting Reschedule Notice: Rental Housing Demolition and Conversion
- Public Meeting Reschedule Notice: Request to Amend the Zoning By-law
Work in the Ward
- Toronto Hydro Upgrades
- TTC Notice: Queen St East at Logan Ave – Urgent Streetcar Track Repair 🆕
- Pre-Construction Notice – Cranfield Rd. Watermain Replacement Projects
City Wide News/Events
- Cathedral Bluffs Symphony Orchestra Season
- City of Toronto Winter Operations – Winter Safety
- Getting Ready for Tax Season in Canada 🆕
- 2025 Green P Parking Rates 🆕
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.
Small Business Spotlight 
Ethical Local Market 🆕
Ethical Local Market (ELM) is a different kind of shop featuring small businesses that are local, eco-friendly and ethical.
The purpose of ELM is to create a community of ethical, local businesses to come together and offer a curated collection of goods which will fulfill various needs of the neighbourhood. It is a tent of creative entrepreneurs with similar values.
Make sure to visit and check out all the vendors at 1628 Queen St. E. near Coxwell.
For more informations and opening hours visit: https://ethicallocalmarket.com/
Image from the Beach BIA
If you know a business you’d like to see profiled in this newsletter, reply and share your nomination!
Local Events
Councillor Bradford’s New Year’s Skating Party🆕
Bundle up and lace up your skates!
To close out the month on a high note, my office is holding a New Year’s Skating Party.
Join us for some winter fun on Sunday, January 26th, from 1 PM to 3 PM at Kew Gardens outdoor rink (2075 Queen St E).
Bring your family, friends, and neighbours and enjoy some community spirit to celebrate the new year together.
Fairmount Park Icemasters Winterfest 🆕
Fairmount Park Icemasters are hosting Winterfest on Saturday, February 8th from 2-5pm.
Both rinks are now open (as of yesterday) and the weather forecast calls for consistently cold weather.
Join us and many local businesses for a fun time at our Winterfest!
Community Programs & Employment Events
African Heritage Program
The African Heritage Program offers enriched learning opportunities at selected elementary schools across the TDSB. For more information visit:
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.
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.
City of Toronto: Winter Programs
Toronto residents can now register for winter recreation programs run by the City of Toronto – the largest provider of recreation programs in the city. With approximately 17,000 registered courses and close to 162,000 spaces, the City offers programming for everyone – including swimming, skating and camps for people of all ages, skill levels and interests.
You can learn more about the programs including registration information by visiting the City’s webpage: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-recreation/program-activities/winter-recreation-programs/
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.
Diverse Workforce Advantage Program 🆕
The Diverse Workforce Advantage Program’s is offering an upcoming workshop on Breaking Barriers and the Value of Hiring Newcomers. This free online session will explore how hiring newcomers can drive innovation and address labour shortages.
Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM EST
Location: Virtual Session
Registration Link: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/dwa-employer-workshop-breaking-barriers-the-value-of-hiring-newcomers-tickets-1109461823179?aff=oddtdtcreator
This workshop is your opportunity to network and hear from Nicole Stibbe, a leading expert in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, who will share insights on how hiring globally skilled talent can boost diversity in your workplace. You will gain actionable insights into recruiting newcomers, access a pool of our subsidized candidates, and earn a certificate of completion to recognize your commitment.
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:
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.
Seniors Assistance Home Maintenance Program
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.
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, workshops, online 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.
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.
Wishy Washy Laundromat 🆕
Free Laundry Access program in the Danforth/East York community.
2025 Toronto Community Champion Award Program
City Clerk’s Office Strategic Protocol & External Relations Office, in partnership with United Way Greater Toronto, is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the 2025 Toronto Community Champion Award program.
The Toronto Community Champion Award is an annual program that recognizes and acknowledges the extraordinary contributions that community organizations make to support the health and solidarity of the residents of the City of Toronto, particularly those from Black, Indigenous and other equity-deserving communities. This year marks the third installment of this important program.
The website is now open for Toronto residents to nominate organizations known for their community collaboration.
The deadline to nominate is Sunday, January 26, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Recipients will be announced in May 2025 and will be honoured at an award ceremony.
For more information on the Toronto Community Champion Award, including criteria and eligibility, and to access the nomination form, please visit the program’s webpage.
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!
Public Meeting Reschedule Notice: Rental Housing Demolition and Conversion
Public Meeting Reschedule Notice: Request to Amend the Zoning By-law
Work in the Ward
Toronto Hydro Notices
Check the links below for the full notices on Toronto Hydro work happening near you!
- Hydro Upgrades near Dawes and Danforth
- Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Work; Project 351 – Woodbine Avenue
- Toronto Hydro Underground Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project Massey – Crescent Town
- Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Halsey Avenue
- Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project Danforth
- Toronto Hydro Overhead & Underground Civil & Electrical Work: Glen Manor Drive
- Toronto Hydro Overhead Electrical Upgrade; Project Dentonia Park Avenue Overhead Rebuild Phase 1A
- REVISED: Hydro Work – Danforth Overhead Rebuild Phase 2A
TTC Notice: Queen St East at Logan Ave – Urgent Streetcar Track Repair 🆕
Due to urgent rail repair to the eastbound track at Queen Street East at Logan Avenue, it will require approximately 36 hours centre lane closure from Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at 7:00am to Thursday, January 16, 2025 at 7:00pm. Currently, a slow order is in place in the area due to this issue.
During this time there will be no 501 streetcar service on Queen Street East between Broadview and Coxwell Avenue. Bus replacement for approximately 36 hours between River Street and Woodbine Avenue will be in place.
Regular streetcar service will resume the next evening and Customer Service Representatives will be on location to assist passengers.
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.
Getting Ready for Tax Season in Canada 🆕
Tips for a Stress-Free Filing:
Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful! Join Dwayne Richards, CPA, for a practical and informative session designed to help Canadians get organized and prepared for filing their taxes. This session equips you with the knowledge and tools you need to approach tax season with confidence.
Learn:
- Key dates and deadlines for the 2024 tax season.
- What documents and receipts you need to gather to maximize deductions and credits.
- Common tax mistakes to avoid.
- Updates to Canadian tax laws that might affect your return.
- Tips for staying organized and reducing tax-related stress.
This presentation is perfect for individuals, families, and small business owners who want to make tax season simpler and more efficient. Bring your questions —there will be a Q&A at the end. No prior tax knowledge required.
Register in branch or by calling 416-396-3975.
Monday January 20, 2025
6:30 – 8:00 pm
Location: Walter Stewart Library (170 Memorial Park Ave) – Meeting Room
2025 Green P Parking Rates
Beginning in January 2025, new Green P parking rates will take effect across Toronto, both on-street and off-street. Rates are set to keep Toronto moving, balance reasonable pricing, and through turnover, have spots available to support local businesses.
The new rates will be implemented across the city on the Green P app and on parking machines. Rates vary by location, and we encourage you to consult Green P’s website at https://parking.greenp.com/ or download the Green P app at https://mobilepay.greenp.com/ for the most up-to-date information.
75% of Toronto Parking Authority’s net income is shared with the City of Toronto to fund essential City services like affordable housing, community safety, and transportation. The remaining 25% maintains Green P service levels and expands other mobility program choices for people in the community, including access to EV charging infrastructure and Bike Share Toronto.
About Brad Bradford - - -
