This week our hearts are heavy with the news of destruction, loss and devastation taking place in Ukraine. Thank you to those of you that have shared kind and supportive words for Ukrainians and Toronto’s Ukrainian community, both online and during in last weeks events downtown. If you are looking for ways to help, I encourage you to consider donating to the Canadian Red Cross or find a local Ukrainian business in to support (read on for some great Toronto suggestions). Difficult times such as these always remind me to be thankful for the tremendous neighbourhood we have here in the East End. The care and support of Beaches-East Yorkers truly extends to communities across the globe!
As we take time to think about those across the world that are experiencing hardship, we also turn our attention to friends in our community that also need support. The pandemic’s impact on mental health has been tremendous, resulting in unprecedented and cascading demands for mental health resources. This Friday, Ride For Mind returns to support Michael Garron Hospital and their incredible work to boost mental health here in the East End. Funds raised will help the hospital support on two priority areas: construction of new state-of-the-art care spaces and their innovative Transitional Youth Program that assists youth navigating the complexities of the mental health system. Starting at 6pm tomorrow, Friday March 4, I’ll be getting back in the saddle for 24 hours of support for their work! New this year, the event will also feature an in-person component with the event being broadcast from HISTORY, the city’s newest music and entertainment venue on Queen Street East. Show your support here, and tune in to the live broadcast as I spin for the cause once again!
Looking ahead to the coming weeks, I many of us are getting acquainted with the recent provincial announcements on capacity limits, gatherings, and proof of vaccination. Like you, I’ll be watching the next few weeks closely, and hoping we will continue to see positive movement out of the pandemic and putting the Omicron wave behind us. With spring around the corner, I am looking forward to seeing our city continue to open back up safely and for our community to once again visit loved ones, and experience the full array of businesses, services, and public spaces Beaches-East York has to offer.
Vaccines are still available for those wanting a first, second or booster dose. Click here for more information on vaccination clinics near you.
March is also Bangladeshi Heritage month! Here in the East End we’re fortunate to be home to the largest Bangladeshi community in the city. We will be celebrating Bangladeshi Independence Day on March 26th, so keep an eye out for more information on how you can get involved and learn more.
In the coming weeks, let’s try and support our local businesses whenever possible. As they get back on their feet and re-orient on the road ahead, shopping local goes a long way. Grab a bite to eat at your favourite local restaurant or explore our Main Streets to find a new mom-and-pop shop.
See you on the line tomorrow night as we kick off #RideForMind! Hope you have a wonderful Friday and weekend ahead.
Sincerely,
– Brad
In This Issue
- Ride for Mind begins tomorrow! Show your support for Michael Garron Hospital and #EastEnd mental health ?
Updates & Announcements from City Hall
- City of Toronto launches hiring campaign for spring and summer parks and recreation jobs ?
- Toronto launches Small Business Support Campaign ?
- City enters new phase of reopening ?
- Toronto’s in-person service counters reopened ?
- Upcoming vaccine clinics ?
- Road safety improvements around Secord Elementary School
- Toronto Hydro – Overhead Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project Danforth
- Toronto Hydro – Danforth Ave. Cable Chamber Repair
- Munroe Park Avenue Stairs Closed for Construction
- Williamson Ravine Upgrades
- Toronto Hydro – Woodbine Heights Upgrade
- Toronto Hydro – Danforth 4kv Conversion Work
- Beach Metro News turns 50! ?
- Beaches Inter-faith Lunch Program celebrates 50 years in the community ?
- Input Requested – East End Arts 2022 Survey
- Spring recreation program registration ?
- March Break CampTO registration is open ?
- Free training in the hospitality sector ?
- Toronto’s Tree Planting Program ?
- Pothole reporting is open ?
- Topham Park Softball – registration open for new players!
- SAWRO International Women’s Day Event ?
- East York Jam Fest ?
- Access Alliance International Women’s Day Event ?
- Winter Stations 2022 continue
- Kingston Road United Church – Concert Series
- Applegrove Income Tax Clinic
- Seniors Active Living & Information Fair
Local Business Feature!
- Support Toronto’s Ukrainian businesses ?
- Dnister Ukrainian Store – St. Lawrence Market
- Future Bakery & Cafe – St. Lawrence Market
- Janchenko’s Bakery – Bloor West
- Heavenly Perogy – King West
- Classic Juice Co. on Coxwell Ave!
Thanks for taking the time to read my bi-weekly newsletter! If you have any events, news, or ideas to share for our next one – please reach out to my office. Send me an email at [email protected], and we can get you included in our next issue.
REMINDER!
Ride for Mind begins tomorrow ?
Ride for Mind in support of Michael Garron Hospital is begins tomorrw, Friday, March 4 at 6pm!
I’ll be getting in the saddle for 24hrs of supporting #RideForMind, because #MentalHealthMatters.
For this first time, this year’s event will be broadcast live from HISTORY, Toronto’s newest music venue on Queen Street East in the Beaches.
Be a part of raising critical funds for Michael Garron Hospital’s fight for mental health in our community. It’s how you can help boost East End mental health – right now and for the years ahead.
There’s still time to show your support. Register and show your support here: rideformind.ca.
Updates & Announcements from City Hall
City of Toronto launches hiring campaign for spring and summer parks and recreation jobs ?
With the city’s recreation programs open for registration, Toronto has launched their hiring campaign for spring and summer parks and recreation jobs. Each year the city hires roughly 5,000 summer parks and recreation employees to help run programming, which includes public pool lifeguards and children’s day camp counsellors, in addition to 900 seasonal gardeners and park’s staff. Click here to view the wide variety of job postings and submit you application today!
Toronto launches Small Business Support Campaign ?
The City of Toronto is providing a variety of programs and services to help small businesses in Toronto recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal of this campaign is to help small business and restaurant owners become aware of the many supports available to them. These supports include financial relief programs, grants, webinars, one-on-one consultations, help with digital transformations and more. All information about the available supports for small businesses can be found on one page at Toronto.ca/BusinessSupport.
City enters new phase of reopening ?
On March 1 the City of Toronto entered the Roadmap Exit Step of the Province of Ontario’s Roadmap to Reopen, with most temporary public health and workplace safety measures implemented to limit the spread of COVID-19 now lifted. Effective as of March 1, 2022:
- All indoor and outdoor capacity limits are now lifted, including for all businesses, public gatherings and events.
- Proof of vaccination requirements are lifted, with continuation of such requirements now being the decision of individual businesses.
- Industry-specific public health measures are lifted, subject to conditions.
Across Ontario, protective measures including wearing a mask or face covering in indoor public settings and health screening continue to be required, subject to the same exemptions as Step 3 Reopening. The City’s mask by-law also remains in effect.
More information about these orders and letters of instruction can be found on the City’s COVID-19: Orders & Bylaws web page.
Toronto’s in-person service counters reopened ?
On February 22, the City reopened several in-person service counters. City Hall, North York Civic Centre, Scarborough Civic Centre, Etobicoke Civic Centre, York Civic Centre and East York Civic Centre are open for a limited number of in-person counter services.
Patrons are now able to pay property taxes, utility bills and parking tickets in person. Some services require appointment while others can be accessed on a walk-in basis. Click here for more information on the services are available.
Upcoming vaccine clinics ?
Local appointments can be booked in advance at www.tehn.ca/covid19/covid-19-vaccinecineAppointment. You can also use the provincial booking system online or at 1-833-943-3900.
Michael Garron Hospital and Toronto East Health Network have been hosting pop-up vaccine clinics in the east end and will continue to do so – check here for an updated list of where you can get vaccinated.
Road Safety Improvements around Secord Elementary School
At our last meeting of Toronto and East York Community Council, I brought forward a letter with a number of motions to improve road safety and traffic flow around the Secord Elementary School area.
A bustling neighbourhood home to young families, a TTC station, school, and community centre – I worked with the local community to bring forward a suite of improvements to address speeding and safety concerns for those getting around the area.
I’m pleased to say Community Council voted in unanimous support of the letter and recommendations. Check out a preview of the letter below, and read the full list of the many motions by clicking here!
Work in the Ward
Toronto Hydro – Overhead Civil & Electrical Upgrade; Project Danforth
*Work is expected to begin January 2022.
Toronto Hydro – Danforth Ave. Cable Chamber Rebuild
Munroe Park Avenue Stairs leading to Silver Birch Beach Closed for Construction
Please be advised that the Munro Park Ave stairs leading to Silver Birch Beach will be under construction. The existing wood and brick staircase is being removed, and concrete steps with a metal handrail are being installed. Weather permitting, this is expected to wrap by late fall.
The cancellation of another project allowed Parks Construction to quickly prioritize this important work, hence the last-minute nature of this advisory.
Access to the Beach can be gained from Neville Park Blvd and Nursewood Rd to the east, and Silverbirch Ave and Willow Ave to the west.
Williamson Ravine Upgrades
Urban Forestry is proposing to plant native trees and shrubs this fall in Williamson Ravine. These plantings are intended to increase the urban tree canopy, improve biodiversity, restore the native plant community, and to prevent soil erosion, following invasive vegetation management. This work is being done as part of the City’s Ravine Strategy.
Toronto Hydro – Woodbine Heights Upgrade
Toronto Hydro – Danforth 4kv Conversion Work
Neighbourhood News
Beach Metro turns 50! ?
Our local non-profit community newspaper, run and delivered by volunteers, is celebrating 50 years. Beach Metro, previously named Ward 9 Community News, published their first edition on March 1, 1972. Happy Birthday to this beacon of local journalism!
Beaches Inter-Faith Lunch Program celebrates 50 years in the community ?
Taking place at various church locations each week, the Beaches Inter-Faith Lunch Program has been been providing nutritious meals for the past 50 years to low income, homeless friends, or anyone who is hungry. Thank you to the dedicated volunteers, host churches and Beaches Synagogues that have made the meal program such a success.
The Lunch Program always welcomes new volunteers and donations. If you would like to get involved, please contact the Beaches Untied Church office via email ([email protected]) or phone (416-691-8082).
Input Requested – East End Arts 2022 Survey
Spread the news! East End Arts has launched their fourth annual Arts Survey and they need your help! Open until March 6th, 2022, fill out the 2022 EEA Arts Survey to tell them what types of programs and services you would like to see, and how they can better serve East Toronto through the arts! P.S. For those who complete the survey, you will have the chance to win one of two $100 gift cards! The survey will take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete, and thank you for helping to shape the arts in the east end!
Click here to learn more!
Community Programs
Spring Recreation Program Registration ?
Get moving this spring with one of the City’s various recreation programs! Registration for City of Toronto spring recreation programs opens on March 5 and 7. Residents can have fun, learn a new skill and stay active with thousands of programs across sports, fitness, swimming, arts and general interest. Some new programs for spring include outdoor Pilates, outdoor Tai Chi, and outdoor yoga.
Residents are asked to plan ahead and confirm the district for their programs before registration starts. Visit toronto.ca/SpringRec for more information.
March Break CampTO Registration ?
Registration for March Break CampTO is open, including in-person and online camp experiences for ages four to 12 and adapted programs for ages six and over. Camps take place from March 14 to 18 and will reflect the provincial COVID-19 requirements at that time.
Registration is open for #CampTO, including in-person and online camp experiences for ages four to 12 and adapted programs for ages six and over. Camps take place from March 14-18. Learn more: toronto.ca/camps
Free training in hospitality sector
COVID-19 closures that kept us safe throughout the pandemic have disproportionately affected those working in the hospitality sector. One of the many issues businesses in hospitality are facing as we begin to reopen is a shortage of workers.
In addition, the pandemic has made gaining experience in the sector equally as difficult given the reduced staffing needs during lockdowns. The Hospitality Workers Training Centre is combatting this by offering free hospitality sector training programs. Check out their available training programs here!
Toronto’s 2022 Tree Planting Program ?
If you live on Woodmount or Murdock Avenues, check your mailbox in the coming weeks for information regarding tree planting on your street happening this Spring!
Want to help the City grow our urban canopy? Property owners can submit a tree planting request for the City-owned road allowance in front of their home or business.
Click here for more information about the program.
Want to know what trees are available? Check out the Toronto Street Tree Guide to learn more.
City Pothole Reporting is Open! ?
As we continue to complete our work on snow removal, you might be seeing potholes and other types of damage to our roads. We kindly as you passing through the neighbourhood to report these potholes for the attention of 311. You can submit a service request:
- by filling out an online form
- by calling 311 and providing them with the exact location of the pothole
- by tweeting 311, with exact location of the pothole by emailing [email protected]
- by emailing [email protected]
Should you be in need of further assistance, reach out to my office.
Topham Park Softball – Registration open for new players!
Registration for new players for Topham Park Softball is still underway until March 31, 2022. For more information on the season ahead, visit here.
Local Events
SAWRO International Women’s Day Event ?
The South Asian Women’s Rights Organization (SAWRO) is hosting a virtual International Women’s Day Event on Saturday March 12 at 11am. This year’s event will focus on the need for a feminist response to COVID-19 pandemic recovery. Join the live stream here.
East York Jam Fest ?
The Beaches Jazz Festival Toronto presents East York Jam Fest! Rain or shine, the event will be taking place at the East York Civic Centre courtyard on March 26 and 27. Admission is free so grab your dancing shoes and head on over for some great company and even better tunes!
Access Alliance International Women’s Day Event ?
Join Access Alliance on March 8 from 4:30-6:30pm as we support the movement to #breakthebias and celebrate International Women’s Day together. Keynote speaker, Nicole Salmon, will be joining the event along with performances, activities and prizes. Register for the event here.
Winter Stations 2022 Continue
Winter Stations 2022 continues! This year’s theme is Resilience – a characteristic our Beaches-East York community truly embodies.Designers were asked to celebrate the ability of people and communities to withstand and push through challenging and unprecedented times. This year brings an incredible lineup of finalists who have brought some pretty amazing art and design concepts forward.The 2022 winning installations were officially launched on Family Day and will be on display until the end of March. Come check out the amazing artistry before it ends!
Kingston Road United Church – Concert Series
Applegrove Income Tax Clinic
Seniors Active Living Fair
Local Spotlight
Support Toronto’s Ukrainian Businesses ?
Show your support for Toronto’s Ukrainian community members by checking out one of the various Ukrainian-owned businesses across the city. From the sweet Ukrainian pastry, khrustyky, to the fan-favourite pierogi, Toronto’s Ukrainian community has something tasty for everyone. Check out the list below!
- Dnister Ukrainian Store: St. Lawrence Market, Lower Level B16, 93 Front Street East
- Future Bakery & Cafe: St. Lawrence Market, 95 Front Street East
- Janchenko’s Bakery: 2394 Bloor St. W
- Heavenly Perogy: 400 Bathurst St.
Classic Juice Co.
Classic Juice Co is your one-stop stop for a healthy choice! They have a great menu with food and drinks to keep you fueled up and feeling great. Their juices are handcrafted in small batches, bringing you nutrients straight from the extractor to glass bottles in the fridge. Classic Juice Co. has also been nominated for Best Juice Bar, in Now Magazines Readers Choice each year since opening in 2018 and were recently shortlisted in the Black Career Conference and Pitch Competition. Owner Tamara Shelley (pictured below) can be your new guide to juices, smoothies and other wellness products. Give them a visit at 287 Coxwell Ave or check out their website!
Thanks for taking the time to read my bi-weekly newsletter! If you have any events, news, or ideas to share for our next one – please reach out to my office! Send me an email at [email protected] and we can get you included in our next issue.
Have questions, comments or concerns? Just hit reply to this email and get in touch with me.
For real-time updates on the local issues that matter to you most, please follow any of my social media accounts!
About Brad Bradford - - -
