Hi Friend,
This Sunday, I will be hosting a New Year’s Skating Party at Kew Gardens.
Join us for some winter fun this 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.
We’ll have some delicious hot chocolate and coffee from Beaches N’ Cream to keep you warm.
I hope you can stop by!
Continuing the New Year festivities, I had the joy of celebrating with the Armenian community at the Armenian Community Centre last week.
I want to give special thanks to the Armenian National Committee of Toronto for their warm welcome. I’m looking forward to continue to collaborate over the year ahead!
Earlier this month, my team and I had the privilege of serving at the Out of the Cold dinner at St. Aidan’s in the Beach.
Nearly 1 in 10 Torontonians rely on food banks, and it’s important to remember the real people behind these numbers.
A big thank you to St. Aidan’s and all the volunteers for their commitment to making Toronto a more affordable and supportive place for everyone.
As always, let me know how my team and I can help you. Stay warm, and I’ll see you around the community.
Warmly,
– Brad
In This Issue
City Hall Update 🆕
Small Business Spotlight
Bistro Camino – 2750 Danforth Ave 🆕
Local Events
- Feb. 1: Jam Nite 🆕
- Feb. 8: Fairmount Park Icemasters Winterfest
- Feb. 8: TO Dansin’ 🆕
- Feb. 10: Jazz & Reflection with the Ferrport Jazz Ensemble 🆕
- Feb. 12: Historical Society Event 🆕
- Feb. 23: GF Händel’s Coronation Anthems 🆕
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
- COSTI’s New2Canada Host Program
- Diverse Workforce Advantage Program
- 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
- 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
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
- TransformTO Net Zero Strategy 🆕
- Winterlicious 2025 🆕
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🆕
Last week, Mayor Chow unveiled the 2025 Toronto Budget. After hearing from many of you, I have raised concerns about the proposed 6.9% property tax increase—three times the rate of inflation. This hike is part of a larger $18.8 billion budget, marking the largest in the city’s history.
Many Torontonians are feeling the financial strain, with the cost of everything rising. I have heard from many folks who understand the need to fund city services properly, but have not seen any attempts in this Budget to deliver value-for-money, find efficiencies, or prioritize and separate nice-to-haves from need-to-haves. At the same time, safety remains a significant concern for residents, with crime rates continuing to climb.
With such a large percentage of the Budget dedicated to paying for collective bargaining agreements, this Budget will have people paying more and getting less. We must prioritize both safety and affordability in a more balanced approach—one that better reflects the needs of all residents, while focusing on core services.
I’ve been sharing a Budget series on my social media channels to keep you informed and up-to-date on this important issue. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out yet, be sure to watch the videos and share your thoughts in the comments.
I will continue championing ideas to ensure Toronto remains a safe, affordable and better place for everyone.
Small Business Spotlight 
Bistro Camino 🆕
This East End gem has been a beloved family restaurant in the ward since 1982, offering a unique blend of classic French cuisine with a touch of Japanese influence.
Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for enjoying delicious, carefully crafted dishes that bring together the best of both worlds.
If you haven’t, make sure to visit them at 2750 Danforth Ave.
To learn more about their opening hours and menu call (416) 698-0283.
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
Jam Nite 🆕
Bring your instrument and/or voice, and come jam with fellow community members on musical favourites old and new. All ages welcome.
Monday, Feb 10 at 7 pm at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave.
More info: beachunitedchurch.com
Fairmount Park Icemasters Winterfest
I’m partnering with Fairmount Park Icemasters to host Winterfest on Saturday, February 8th from 2-5pm.
Both rinks are now open and the weather forecast calls for consistently cold weather.
Join us and many local businesses for a fun time at our Winterfest!
TO Dansin’ 🆕
Are you ready to boogie? TO Dansin’ is bringing disco fever back to the east end on February 8, and we can’t wait to see you hit the dance floor! Whether you’ve got moves like Jagger or prefer to freestyle your way into disco history, this night is for YOU.
Join us at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall (243 Coxwell Avenue) from 8:00pm – midnight, where DJ Brother Boo will be spinning the hottest retro dance hits. It’s time to dust off those elephant pants and let the music take you back in time. Tickets are just $20 +service fee, and you can grab yours now on Eventbrite:
👉 Click here to get your tickets!
Jazz & Reflection with the Ferrport Jazz Ensemble 🆕
We are excited to present The Ferrport Jazz Ensemble featuring special guest guitarist, Michael Vuscan, as they share a concert filled with old jazz standards that will leave you humming along in recognition. Pay-what-you-can (suggested minimum $10).
Saturday, Feb 1st at 4:30pm at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave.
More info: beachunitedchurch.com
Historical Society Event 🆕
Join The Beach and East Toronto Historical Society and Beaches Sandbox for their next historical society event!
Music historian, Mark Vendramini will talk about the fascinating history of Yonge Street’s pop music and culture.
Wednesday, February 12 at 7 pm at Beaches Sandbox.
GF Händel’s Coronation Anthems 🆕
Toronto Beach Chorale, a choir that has a strong presence in the Beach community, will have an exciting concert 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!
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.
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.
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
Jan 25, Feb 8, Feb 22, March 1, March 22, Apr 5, Apr 26, May 10
Sponsored in part by the TELUS Friendly Future Foundation.
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.
Our Fragile Planet 🆕
Join us for free, engaging programs about our environment at the S. Walter Stewart Library and be inspired to take action to protect our planet.
Programs cover a wide range of protection, conservation and sustainability topics. You can also check out related books, materials and resources.
We are located one block north of Mortimer and one block west of Coxwell (behind the East York Civic Centre).
For more information visit https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/programs-and-classes/featured/fragile-planet.jsp
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!
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
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
CaféTO Returns: Curb Lane Applications and Renewals 🆕
The City of Toronto has officially opened applications and renewals for the 2025 CaféTO curb lane program. Restaurant operators are invited to participate in this signature initiative that expands outdoor dining opportunities, transforms Toronto’s streetscapes, supports local businesses and revitalizes neighbourhoods.
Applications for first time operators
Businesses looking to participate in the curb lane program for the first time are encouraged to review the CaféTO Curb Lane Café Guidebook (toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/969c-2025CafeTOGudiebook.pdf) for program requirements and apply early to allow sufficient time for review and approval. Applicants can also sign up for virtual information sessions and one-on-one consultations to assist with their application.
Applications must be submitted online at toronto.ca/cafeTO before 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19.
Returning operators
Starting today, City staff will contact 2024 operators with instructions on how to renew their permit through a streamlined process.
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
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 1
TransformTO Net Zero Strategy 🆕
The City of Toronto is currently seeking input on actions under consideration for the next Action Plan of the TransformTO Net Zero Strategy, the City of Toronto’s community-wide climate strategy.
The Net Zero Strategy has a target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions, community-wide, by 2040. The next Action Plan for the Strategy will cover the period 2026 to 2030, including the interim target of a 65 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 (from the 1990 baseline).
The City conducted previous public consultations between 2016 and 2021 to inform the development of TransformTO and the first Action Plan. The current public consultation process asks for input from residents to learn more about current actions they are taking, actions they are not taking, barriers they may be facing and supports that might help them overcome those barriers.
The survey is available until January 31, 2025.
There are pop-up sessions throughout the month, hosted by city staff.
Winterlicious 2025 🆕
Savour the flavours: Winterlicious 2025 reservations are now open!
Launched in 2003, the Winterlicious and Summerlicious programs were created by the City to support the local restaurant industry during slower business periods. Since then, the programs have served more than eight million meals and generated more than $353 million in economic activity for Toronto restaurants.
Get ready for a taste of Toronto as Winterlicious returns from Friday, January 31 to Thursday, February 13, featuring three-course prix fixe menus at more than 220 local restaurants across the city.
With menu prices ranging from $20 to $55 for lunch and from $55 to $75 for dinner, Winterlicious offers a wide variety of dining experiences for food enthusiasts to explore Toronto’s vibrant culinary scene.
A complete list of participating restaurants and menus is available on the Winterlicious webpage: www.toronto.ca/winterlicious.
Follow Winterlicious on Facebook www.facebook.com/LiciousTO and Instagram www.instagram.com/LiciousTO.
About Brad Bradford - - -
