Beach Metro News April 15, 2025 by Beach Metro News

Beaches Easter Parade set for Sunday afternoon

THE TORONTO Beaches Lions Club annual Beaches Easter Parade will take place this coming Sunday, April 20.

The parade will start at Queen Street East and Victoria Park Avenue, in front of the R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant, at 2 p.m. on Easter Sunday.

The parade will then head west along Queen Street East through the Beach, ending on Woodbine Av-

Fearless

MEAT on Kingston Road will

its fourth annual fundraiser in support of Beach Metro Community News on Good Friday.

enue at Kew Beach Avenue.

A Beach tradition since 1967, the Toronto Beaches Lions Club has been organizing the parade since 1973.

The Grand Marshal for this Sunday’s parade will be Canadian Olympian Courtney Stott.

A member of the Balmy Beach Canoe Club, Stott competed for Canada in the 2024 Paris Olympics and the 2020(21) Tokyo Olym-

its regular size Breakfast Peameal Bacon, St. Lawrence Market Style Sandwiches, priced at $3.99, to Beach Metro Community News “Beach Metro News is a most

pics. In Paris and Tokyo she was a member of Canada’s K-4 500-metre women’s team.

Stott has also represented Canada at numerous other international events including the World Championships and Pan American Championships.

This Sunday’s parade is part of a number of Easter celebrations planned locally for this upcoming long weekend. There

David Brown of his continued support of the paper. Beach Metro Community News is a non-profit community newspaper run by a volunteer Board of Direc-

will also be the annual Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt on Good Friday, April 18. The Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt will take place between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and participants are invited to complete assigned tasks within a geo-fenced area of the Beach community.

For more information on the parade, and the Good Friday scavenger hunt, please go to www.beacheseasterparade.ca

drive, and is asking for the support of residents to keep local journalism strong in the community.

Fearless Meat is located at 884 Kingston Rd., and will be open from

Candidates meeting for Beaches-East York slated

THE FINAL list of candidates in this month’s federal election has been released in advance of voting day on Monday, April 28.

Voters in Beaches-East York will be able to learn more about some of those candidates during a meeting set for the evening of Wednesday, April 23.

Presented by the Balmy Beach Residents Association and Beach Metro Community News, the candidates meeting will take place at Kingston Road United Church, 975 Kingston Rd., starting at 7:30 p.m.

Moderator for the candidates meeting will be CityNews journalist and Beach resident Alan Carter. Candidates from the Conservative Party, Green Party, Liberal Party and the NDP have been invited to the event.

The meeting will see community questions presented to the candidates by the moderator. If you have a question regarding an issue that you would like asked, please send it to Beach Metro Community News at editor@beachmetro.com and we will make sure the moderator receives it.

The ridings covered by Beach Metro Community News include Beaches-East York, Scarborough Southwest and Toronto-Danforth. Please see our Question and Answer feature with some of the candidates in those ridings starting on Page 14 of today’s paper.

The deadline for candidates to register for this federal election was April 7. Here is the final list of candidates running locally.

BEACHES-EAST YORK

Shannon Devine – NDP. Nathaniel Erskine-Smith – Liberal.

Diane Joseph – Independent. Jack Pennings – Green. Jocelyne Poirier – Conservative. Elizabeth Rowley – Communist. Steve Rutchinski – Marxist-Le-

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Members of the Toronto Beaches Lions Club

to Woodbine Avenue.

Plan for 11-storey building by Glen Stewart Ravine heading to Ontario Land Tribunal

By Matthew Stephens

CITING A “failure of City Council to make decisions on the revised applications,” for an 11-storey, 99-unit, mixeduse residential development project at 847-855 Kingston Rd., real estate developer Gabriele Homes Ltd. is now seeking review from the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) for an approval of the project.

was already opposed by the community and the city’s own Ravine Strategy. It is imperative that the community’s input is taken seriously, and that the proposal be denied. This small parcel of land should not be rezoned for mixed commercial use. It is on or adjacent to ravine and designated Environmentally Sensitive Areas on the west and south property borders,” she said.

a lack of planned parking spaces; safety risks to students attending schools in the area; and the environmental impact to the Glen Stewart Ravine.

The decision to go to the OLT has many community members concerned for the future of the Glen Stewart Ravine, which is located directly south of the site, and the safety of pedestrians in the area.

“I am lucky enough to experience the ravine daily. And I have even enjoyed reading and been heartened by the City of Toronto’s published Ravine Strategy, recognizing this ecosystem for its importance to the city, including our climate future,” said local resident Jennifer Pilkington in a letter to the Beach Metro Community News regarding the proposed 11-storey building at the southwest corner of Kingston Road and Beech Avenue.

“The original proposal

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There are currently three one-storey detached houses, a 1.5 storey medical office building, and a one-storey commercial building on the land where the 11-storey building is proposed.

The move to send the proposal to the OLT prompted a strong reaction from Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford who is in support of the city’s legal staff opposing the application when it comes before the tribunal.

“This developer at 847-855 Kingston Road has not engaged once with my office,” said Bradford in an email statement sent to Beach Metro Community News

“The surrounding buildings are seven to eight storeys, also the parking allowance is woefully small, and they didn’t include Hannaford Street in the traffic study, which will be highly impacted by only 22 parking spots in a 99 unit building, and general traffic trying to access the building at a noncontrolled intersection,” said Beach resident Wayne Gibbeaus in an email to Beach Metro Community News.

“I am not entirely opposed to the original seven storeys, I believe in the need for density, but they need to fix the issues concerning the ravine and natural preservation. The ravine is a very special place for residents of the area and this building poses a potential threat.”

submitted a revised proposal to construct an 11-storey, 38.2 metre (including mechanical penthouse) mixed-use building with retail at-grade, and 99 residential units at 847-855 Kingston Rd.

When it comes to density, parents like Sarah Cahill fear for the safety of children during rush hour when the development is complete.

“The large construction project proposed for 847-855 Kingston Rd. will create additional congestion along the busy Kingston Road commute and most likely result in extra traffic being pushed to nearby sideroads, including Malvern Avenue,” said Cahill in an email to Beach Metro Community News

“What assessment, if any, has been made during the planning stage of this project to understand the impact of construction on local sideroads and ensure the safety of students accessing the two high schools (Malvern Collegiate and Notre Dame Catholic High School) on Malvern Avenue?”

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“They chose to file an indefensible application for an 11-storey building right on the edge of the Glen Stewart Ravine. As just one example, they proposed a zero-metre setback from the long term stable top of slope, where our Official Plan and Conservation Authority policy requires a minimum 10-metre setback. Instead of working with city staff to address these serious issues, they chose to appeal straight to the Ontario Land Tribunal. I support having city staff and our legal team oppose this application at the OLT,” he said.

Development at the site has been a controversial topic for close to a decade.

Pilkington agreed with Gibbeaus’ sentiment that housing and density is needed in the area, but not at the risk of compromising the ravine.

“Toronto’s housing crisis is real, and we need to build more homes. But the way forward isn’t to sacrifice protected green space,” said Pilkington.

The original Official Plan Amendment (OPA) and Zoning Bylaw Amendment (ZBA) applications were submitted back in August 2015 for a seven-storey, mixeduse building with a height of 24.26 metres including the mechanical penthouse, at 847-853 Kingston Rd. The development proposal included 4,420 square metres of total gross floor area with 124 square metres of retail space at grade and 29 residential units.

Cherie Daly is a member of the Friends of Glen Stewart Ravine: an active Facebook group with more than 1,200 followers and 10 years of dedication to preserving the ravine’s flora and fauna. She said the group sent a letter to City of Toronto planning staff last August in protest of the proposed development, citing insufficient distance from the ravine as the group’s main concern.

“It is designated as an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA), which makes it quite special in the city. It is home to some very old oak trees which are keystone species providing food and homes for a diverse group of insects and birds and animals.” said Daly in an email to Beach Metro Community News

Easter Bonnet Devilled Eggs with dill & radishes (V/GF) (2 pieces per person)

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Salad Spring Kale & Quinoa Salad chopped kale, quinoa, cucumber, feta cheese, chickpeas, scallions, fresh mint & parsley with lemon vinaigrette (V/GF)

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Residents have raised concerns regarding the project’s building size; insufficient traffic studies; increased traffic congestion due to

Potatoes with fresh herbs (GF/DF)

Duck-Fat Roasted Smashed New

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In December 2022, after acquiring the adjacent property at 855 Kingston Rd. two years prior, the developer Continued on Page 17

“Our main concern was expressed best by the TRCA

Vegetable Side Dish

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Dessert

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Saturday April 19

Sunday April 20

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Spring sprinters on the Boardwalk

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Affordability, subway station crowding among concerns raised at meeting on 6 Dawes Rd. plan

By Matthew Stephens

A LACK of affordability and increased pressure on what is already an extremely busy Main Street Subway Station were among the concerns raised at a community consultation meeting for a proposed 56-storey rental residential building in the Danforth Avenue and Dawes Road area.

The virtual meeting on the evening of Monday, March 31, was held to give community members a chance to learn more and ask questions about the proposed 56-storey residential building that will be located at 6 Dawes Rd., south of Danforth Avenue and just north of the railway tracks and the Danforth GO Station.

Representatives of the City of Toronto’s planning department, developers Fitzrovia Inc., and Bousfields Inc. (an urban planning company working with the developer) were at the meeting to talk about the proposal and answer questions from members of the public.

The main concerns expressed by community members at the meeting involved the small number of affordable rental units in the project and the impact it would have on subway passengers using the nearby Main Street station.

“There’s only going to be a commitment of six affordable units – that’s pretty embarrassing,” said a community member during the meeting’s question-and-answer session.

“I would strongly suggest that, given that you want to go up 56 floors, increasing the density, increasing your take-home in terms of money, that they need to have way more affordable units in these developments.”

The application for this particular development is part of an overall project approved in August 2022 as part of a settlement at the Ontario Land Tribunal, which included four towers with heights of 29, 39, 37, and 17 storeys. Three of those buildings are already under construction on the strip of land directly north of the Danforth GO station and east of Main Street.

The settlement also included the development of a public park, a public road, and a privately owned but publicly available space in the area.

The March 31 meeting focussed specifically on what was a previously approved 17-storey building at the east end (East Block) of the site closest to Dawes Road. The proposal is now being re-submitted to the city as a

56-storey project by Fitzrovia. The new development application is seeking to “rightsize” the building to 56 storeys to ensure consistency with surrounding developments in the area, said Fitzrovia in its new proposal.

This “right sizing” drew speculation from Donna, a local resident, who questioned if the new development was keeping in line with Fitzrovia’s other developments in the area.

“Someone mentioned that the 56 storeys that we’re talking about here, that it fits in with the already planned buildings, but those buildings are, correct me if I’m wrong, but they are 30 to 40 storeys,” said Donna.

Sheliza Rajan, Senior Planner with Bousfields Inc., said that changes in city building policy to encourage more density, coupled with the site’s close proximity to a “transit hub,” has influenced the move to higher towers amongst all developers within the Main Street-Danforth Avenue-Dawes Road area. She referenced other high-rise developments in the area, such as 8 Dawes Rd., a 52-storey development located directly next to the Fitzrovia site.

According to the new proposal for 6 Dawes Rd., the East Block residential tower will be an “elegant” 56-storey structure with an 854-square-metre tower floorplate and 11-storey podium comprised of approximately 533 dwellings. The updated project will also include four levels of above-grade parking with 65 parking spaces, six visitor parking spaces, and 587 bike parking spaces.

At the meeting, members of the public were quick to question unit affordability. Currently, the overarching development proposal for all buildings will secure just six units designated as affordable housing – a number which left some attendees strongly discouraged.

“There’s an estimated 533 living units, and only six of them are slated to be affordable. That makes it barely one per cent of the units will be affordable,” said East Toronto resident Adam Smith.

“Will the rental units be calculated based on what is affordable according to the average Toronto income, or is it simply going to be the currently unaffordable market rates?”

Gregory Gilbert, Vice President of Planning at Fitzrovia, clarified that the six affordable rental units are slated to be established at an existing project already under construction and will become available by 2027.

Continued on Page 16

This artist’s conception shows the buildings on the 6 Dawes Rd. site, just north of the railway tracks and south of Danforth Avenue. To the left of the image is Main Street. At the right (reddish brown building) is the proposed 56-storey residential building proposed for the East Block of the 6 Dawes Rd. site.

Making the case that all schools must be art schools

Luis Fornazzari Guest Column

For the last 20 years we have been working with the inspiring concept that “art expression” is basically not different from other brain-mind functions, such as language, attention, memory, in the sense that all represent the best communication forms with potentially infinite combinations.

When evaluating artists in our Memory Clinic, they give us new insights into the nature of artistic creativity. This knowledge has refined and enriched our understanding of how the brain processes essential functions like abstraction, memory, metaphorical language, visual expression, rhythm, all forms of different memories and many other aspects of our enriched human condition.

We demonstrated that art, in any of its multiple expressions, is an enhancer of practically all brain cognitive functions. Together with many other similar centres at

McMaster, Carleton, McGill, York University, Simon Fraser and UBC, we established that artistic expression, comprehension or simply observation-audition, protect our brain from the effect of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia, strokes, head injuries, and many other neuro-developmental issues such as schizophrenia and autistic spectrum disorders .

We have proven with new neuroscientific techniques what our colleagues recreational and art therapists, music therapists have been telling us for many years. Any form of art stimulates our brain very early in our gestation, at around two months of our embryonic life, and continues during infancy, childhood and the rest of our life.

We learned, thanks to the renaissance of neurosciences during the last few years, that our brain plasticity, in other words the capacity of our brain to regenerate,and create new neural connections, works efficiently until the last minute of our life. Art in any of its forms is a very important activator of neuroplasticity.

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In other words it helps us to learn new skills, consolidate and retrieve all type of biographicals and emotional memories and particularly it reorganizes all our brain neurotransmitters in response to the art stimuli.

When dopamine for instance, is activated it signifies that reward systems, motivation, pleasure and particularly other high cognitive functions like verbal programming, how we talk, and fast mental function are stimulated.

With serotonin, another of the important neurotransmitters associated with mood, art also increases serotonin and mood is stabilized.

The old concept of the when and where art originated is inappropriate because we are by nature artists and art starts with our humanity.

This concept has been strongly supported by recent neuro archaeological and anthropological findings in which the origin of art starts practically since the origin of us, as human beings. In other words art is part of human instinct and as such has a very powerful

role in the development not only of our brain-mind but also of our human societies all over the different cultures in the world.

Studies originated at Carleton University in Ottawa corroborate the observation that art is a very potent brain stimulator in childhood and adolescence. They demonstrated that kids involved in any kind of musical, dancing, singing at early age are able to develop important areas in the brain that were practically immature.

In perceptual processing in verbal expression in reaction time and particularly in behavioural and executive functions – the goal that we want in our life – in other words in improving practically all of the brain functions.

These studies were repeated in other centres all over the world, and are the scientific basis for “El Sistema” created in 1975 by Jose Abreu in Venezuela and now spread all over the world. In Canada, in the education of kids of socio-economically disadvantaged areas, those kids in less than a year are able to reach the same levels of mental activities with the

ones that were coming from other more advantaged areas.

All this evidence about the protecting role of art in adults and particularly in the elderly are strong advisors that any kind of education, or any kind of discipline that is exerted under the effect of art, is more successful.

I think that based on all those scientifically powerful arguments on the potent activating role of any form of art in our brain mind development, a message to our educators, at all levels is that in order to improve the day-to-day learning in our schools and particularly the behavioural aspect in kids at school and for the rest of their lives, we need to promote that All Schools Must be Art Schools.

- Luis Fornazzari is a behavioural neurologist (neuropsychiatry). He is a consultant at the Memory Disorder Clinic, and the Geriatric Mental Health Outpatient Program at St Michael’s Hospital. He is a member of the Division of Neurology, the Department of Psychiatry and the Faculty of Music at U of T.

Thanks to young man who helped in snowstorm

The day after the major snowstorm we received earlier this winter, my vehicle was stuck in the snow.

It occurred while I was driving north on Scarboro Crescent in the Midland Avenue area.

I was with my son and dog, no shovel in the car. A young man named Felix came out with a shovel and dug us out.

I would like to acknowledge this act of kindness, especially as we live in a large city.

Also kudos to his parents for raising a fine young man. Thanks again.

L. Butler

Councillors should not vote on own pay

Re: ‘Majority of Toronto councillors vote to increase their pay’, News, Beach Community News, April 1.

Will this practice continue or will Mayor Olivia Chow get rid of this practice in the future for councillors? Also, eight councillors vote “No” to the raise, but was it a political move? Will the eight councillors simply have to accept the raise despite voting no?

Will they refuse to accept the raise? Will they donate the salary increase to charity or residents in their wards? Will the councillors provide proof to their constituents in their newsletters which choice they made?

I hope that media investigate these questions and report on the actions of the eight councillors.

I personally will not vote for any councillor that accepted this raise despite the vote, and I will certainly not vote for any mayor who fails to get rid of this ridiculous municipal right to vote on your own salary increase. This could have been a positive opportunity to use the “Strong Mayor” powers along with a referendum on the issue.

Based on a survey showing that 89 per cent of Canadians objected to the current MP raise in Ottawa, I wonder what a Toronto survey would show on this issue. It is a disgraceful abuse of the councillor position in Toronto.

Brett Howell

The ‘Toronto’ team won the East York Hockey Association’s Little Stanley Cup championship game on March 29 at East York Memorial Arena. ‘Toronto’ won the game over the ‘Boston’ team by a score of 6-4 in an entertaining match that went back and forth. The East York Hockey Association has been presenting the Little Stanley Cup to its Pee Wee (Under 13) division champions since 1955. East York was given special permission to present the Stanley Cup replica by then NHL president Clarence Campbell in 1955, and the local league is the only minor hockey association allowed to do so. Sharp-eyed Beach Metro Community News readers may be saying that they saw this photo on the front page of our April 1 edition, and they would be right (sort of). We want you to know (and this was not an April Fools Day joke) that in the photo from two weeks ago, one of the ‘Toronto’ players could not be seen as they had been accidentally blocked from view. To make sure all team members get full credit for their Little Stanley Cup win and can keep this edition of the paper as a life-long memory, we are now running this slightly different photo in which all members of the team can be seen celebrating the victory.

PHOTO: ALAN SHACKLETON

Community Calendar

proudly presented by Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford

APRIL 16: The Beach and East Toronto Historical Society (TBETHS) at Beaches Sandbox, 2181 Queen St. E., 7-8:15 p.m. Local historian and author Richard White will return with an illustrated talk entitled: The Beach in the 1920’s and 30’s: The Neighbourhood’s Character Takes Shape. Admission is free. Info: www.tbeths.com

APRIL 18: Fundraiser for Beach Metro News at Fearless Meat, 884 Kingston Rd., 11 a.m.-8 p.m. This Good Friday special offers a St. Lawrence Market-style Breakfast-size Peameal Bacon on an Ace Bakery Bun for $3.99. All proceeds from the sale of this item go to Beach Metro News. Info: fearlessmeat1.com

APRIL 18: Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hosted by Toronto Beaches Lions Club. Registration is required. Info: beacheseasterparade.ca

APRIL 18: Good Friday Passion Play at St. Brigid’s Catholic Church, 300 Wolverleigh Blvd., 7:30 p.m. Please join us for a moving reenactment of the Passion of Christ, lovingly presented by the youth and adults of the St. Brigid’s community.

APRIL 19: Music for the Soul with Opera Revue, 140 Wineva Ave., 4:30 p.m. Back by popular demand, Opera Revue aims to take away the exclusive nature of opera and make it accessible for all audiences. Suggested minimum is $15. Tickets and more info: beachunitedchurch.com

APRIL 20: Beaches Easter Parade along Queen St. from Neville Park to Woodbine, 2 p.m. rain or shine. Info: beacheseasterparade.ca

APRIL 22: A Senior Moment luncheon for ladies at the Wolfe Tone, 1961 Queen St. E., 1:30 p.m. We look forward to seeing you all there. Please R.S.V.P. by text to Colleen at 647-829-8042

APRIL 23: Beaches East York Candidates Meeting at Kingston Road United Church, 975 Kingston Rd., 7:30 p.m. Presented by the Balmy Beach Residents Association and Beach Metro Community News.

APRIL 26: I Love to Sing at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St., 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Vocal arts and performance program for ages 8-14. Info: https://singtoronto.com/i-love-to-sing

APRIL 26: Acoustic Harvest presents Bill Garrett & Sue Lothrop with Jim Armour opening, at St. Paul’s United Church, 200 McIntosh St., 8 p.m. Tickets $35 advance, $40 cash only at door. Ticket info: acousticharvest.ca

APRIL 26: Chasing Light – A Group Show, at the Jackalope Gallery, 1558 Queen St. E., 5 p.m. Gallery hours: Thurs-Sun 12-5 p.m. or by appointment. All welcome to view the collection and meet the artists. Info: www.thejackalopegallery.ca

APRIL 26: Newfie Night and Jiggs Dinner at RCL Branch 22, 1240 Woodbine Ave., 7 p.m. $25 for dinner and dance, $10 dance only. Fun for all 19+. Tickets and info: 416-425-1714

APRIL 26, 27: Councillor Fletcher’s Community Compost Days. •April 26 at Phin Park, 7 a.m., and Jimmie Simpson Park, 12 p.m. •April 27 at Monarch Park, 7 a.m., Kempton Howard Park, 8 a.m., Riverdale Park East, 9 a.m., and Greenwood Park, 12 p.m. Info: https:// www.councillorpaulafletcher.ca/compost_days_2025

APRIL 27: Wonder Church at St. Aidan’s Anglican Church, 2423 Queen St. E., 4 p.m., a new service designed for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, early elementary children and their families. This 30-45 minute service includes puppets, music, and prayers. Coffee and treats are provided. All are welcome. For more information, contact children’s minister Elizabeth at children@staidansinthebeach.com

APRIL 29: Ashbridge’s Bay Yacht Club Open House at 30 Ashbridge’s Bay Park Rd., 6-9 p.m. Talk to the pros about Learn to Sail programs, camps, boat share options, and kayak or SUP storage. Info: abyc.ca

APRIL 29: Special screening of the iconic Canadian classic “Hookers on Davie”, with filmmakers Janis Cole and Holly Dale in attendance, at the Fox Theatre, 2236 Queen St. E., 6:45 p.m. Advance tickets available online or by calling 416-691-7335. Info: www.foxtheatre. ca/movies/hookers-on-davie-w-janis-cole-holly-dale MAY 2-4: Jane’s Walks, commemorating urbanist and community activist Jane Jacobs •May 2: Prince Edward Lavatory – Don Jail – Broadview – Danforth, 10 a.m.12:30 p.m. Led by Richard Longley •May 3: The Beaches: Toronto’s Summer Playground from Then Until Now, 10:30-11:45 a.m., starting at Beaches Branch Library and ending at Ivan Forrest Gardens. Led by Jennie Worden and Kaila Hunte. Info: www.janeswalkfestivalto.com/walks

MAY 3: Spring High Tea at St. Paul’s United Church, 200 McIntosh St., 12:30 p.m. Scones, sandwiches, treats, and tea! $30/per person. Info: admin@stpaulsscarborough.org

MAY 3: Ecofair at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Get inspired, get involved, and bring the entire family to our Ecofair. There will be food, vendors, and exhibitors – bring something in an item to get fixed at our Repair Café, or your bike for a free tune-up! Free, all ages & fully accessible. Info: beachunitedchurch.com

MAY 3: Jazz & Reflection with the Rebecca Hennessy Trio, Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., 4:30 p.m. Beach United Church is excited to present the multiinstrumentalist, singer and composer Rebecca Hennessy for our final Jazz & Reflection concert of the season (after our Ecofair!), alongside Tania Gill on piano and Michael Herring on upright bass. Suggested price $15; there will be a cash bar! Info: beachunitedchurch.com

MAY 3: Plant Sale at Grant AME Church lawn, 2029 Gerrard St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (weather permitting. Rain date: May 10). Vegetables, herbs, perennials, annuals and expert advice. All profits used to support mission work. MAY 9: River Spirits – Musical Meditations for Peace Love and Understanding, presented by Guitarist Mark Battenberg and Shakuhachi Flute Master Debbie Danbrook at Danforth Mennonite Church, 2174 Danforth Ave., 7 p.m. Please join us for an evening of transcend-

ing sounds and enchanting compositions, featuring the music of Beaches composer and guitarist Mark Battenberg and internationally acclaimed Shakuhachi Flute Master Debbie Danbrook. The River Spirit is a musical meditation and journey, intended to refresh the mind and calm the soul. $20 or Pay What You Can

MAY 10: Artists & Artisans Spring Market at Beaches Presbyterian Church, 65 Glen Manor Dr., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Handcrafted items and beautiful works of art including cards, bags, crochet, jewelry, body creams, paintings, plants, woodcrafts, novels, wellness products, stained glass, chocolates, candles, soap, bath bombs and more. Cafe: sandwiches, baked goods and refreshments. MAY 11: Mother’s Day Brunch at RCL Branch 1/42, 243 Coxwell Ave., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Choice of two menus. Tickets $15 must be purchased in advance at the club room bar. Info: 416-465-0120

MAY 24: Councillor Fletcher’s Spring Community Environment Day at Dieppe Park, 455 Cosburn Ave., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: https://www.councillorpaulafletcher.ca/environment_day_spring_2025

MONDAYS: WEE FOLKS DROP IN at Fallingbrook Presbyterian Church, 35 Wood Glen Rd., 9:30-11 a.m. except holidays. Ages up to 3 socialize with nannies, parents, grandparents and other kids. Play-time, stories and snacks provided.

THURSDAYS: GRACE PASCOE CARE CENTRE Food Bank, 72 Main St., 6-8:30 p.m, by appointment only, through Daily Bread Food Bank. Info: 416-691-2899, gpcc@calvary-baptist-church.ca, www. gracepascoefoodbank.ca/access-our-services

FRIDAYS: GRANTFUL FOOD AND FELLOWSHIP Food Bank and Soup Kitchen, 2029 Gerrard St E., 3:30-6 p.m. Registration is required. New clients must present identification for members in their household on their first visit and annually thereafter. Time slots are handed out and clients are encouraged to arrive at the food bank the time slot they have selected. Info: 416-690-5169

SUNDAYS: MEDITATIONS FOR WORLD PEACE at Atisha Buddhist Centre, 1823 Gerrard St. E., 10-11 a.m. No charge. Info: atisha.centre@gmail.com

THE BOOK AND FILM CLUB, presented by the Great Escape Book Store, featuring “The Woman in the Dunes” by Kobo Abe. Read it: meet and discuss May 9 at Kingston Road United Church, 975 Kingston Rd., 7:30 p.m. Watch the film by Hiroshi Teshigahara: screening May 15 at The Fox Theatre, 2236 Queen St. E., 7 p.m., followed by Q&A. Info or sign up: 416-691-7150, greatescape.bookstore@gmail.com

EAST END COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE is looking for new Board members! East End CHC is a non-profit, community-based organization which has been providing health care to all for the past 30 years, especially those who may have difficulty accessing health care due to factors such as language, culture, poverty, or lack of health insurance. Anyone living in the EECHC catchment area is invited to join the board. East End CHC is committed to including diverse perspectives on our Board. Applications are encouraged from individuals who are Indigenous people, members of racialized communities, individuals of diverse sexual orientation and gender identification, persons with disabilities and others protected under the Human Rights Code. For more info contact communications@eastendchc.on.ca or 416-778-5858 ext 209 before May 1, 2025. Info: www.eastendchc.on.ca

EARLYON FAMILY RESOURCE CONNECTION, 184 Main St. Play Learn Explore: Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Friday 9-11:30 a.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. All children from birth to six years are welcome. Info: 416690-0102, Jennifer.hooker@familyresourcecentre-dcc.net TORONTO NATURE STEWARDS are seeking volunteers for ecological restoration in Glen Stewart Park and Ashbridges Bay Park, from May to September. TNS volunteers help care for the city’s parks and ravines by removing non-native invasive plants. Info: friendsofglenstewartravine@gmail.com or ashbridgestns@gmail. com, or visit torontonaturestewards.org/get-involved BEACHES SANDBOX, 2181 Queen St. E. •April 29: Supporting Your Anxious Child: A Workshop for Parents and Caregivers, 7 p.m. Parents and caregivers will gain a deeper understanding of childhood anxiety and learn to recognize common physical, emotional, and behavioural signs. Free. Register at beachessandbox.com 115 TORONTO BILINGUAL GIRL GUIDES meets at Ecole Elementaire Georges-Etienne-Cartier, 250 Gainsborough Rd., Thursdays 6:15-8 p.m. Guides offers a fun and educational experience where girls in grades 4, 5, and 6 develop leadership, teamwork, and life skills. Through hands-on activities like crafts, outdoor adventures, and community service, they build confidence and make lasting friendships. Info: 115bilingualguides@gmail.com, https://register.girlguides.ca/web/en/unit-single/8443?tnjl=false BEACHES MENTAL WELLNESS GROUP meets each Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St. at Swanwick. Info: www.mentalwellness. help. Or join us most nights of the week on Zoom. Go to: https://www.meetup.com. Ask to join us: Mental Wellness Peer-to-Peer Support-Groups A A at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St., Saturdays 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Info: 416-691-1113

AL- ANON at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St., Wednesdays 7:15 p.m. Alateen members are welcome to attend. Info: 416-691-1113

BEACH INTERFAITH OUTREACH FELLOWSHIP LUNCHES for adults in the community, 11 a.m. •Mondays at Corpus Christi Church (16 Lockwood Rd.) •Tuesdays – alternating locations: St. Aidan’s Anglican Church (2423 Queen St. E.) April 15, 29, May 13; St. Nicholas Anglican Church (1512 Kingston Rd.) April 22, May 6, 20 •Wednesdays at Beach Hebrew Institute (109 Kenilworth Ave.), •Thursdays at Beach United Church (140 Wineva Ave.) •Fridays at Kingston Road United Church (975

Kingston Rd.). No lunch April 16 and April 21. Lunch format may vary from site to site. Info: 416-691-6869

BEACH PHOTO CLUB. Are you interested in photography? We invite all shutterbugs to check out our local photo club. We offer a range of activities including guest speakers, mentorship, opportunities to share your work, photo excursions, competitions, practical seminars and more! We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month from September to June, 7-9:30 p.m., at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave. (unless specified in program). Info: beachphotoclub.com or email beachphotoclub@gmail.com

GERRARD ASHDALE LIBRARY, 1432 Gerrard St. E. •April 22: Seniors Tech Help Drop-In (Seniors E-Connect), 4-5:30 p.m. Bring your phone or laptop and our tech-savvy teen volunteers will help solve your technology woes. Drop-in. •April 26: NatureTO Walking Tour - Trees Around Gerrard/Ashdale, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Go for a walk with Toronto Urban Forestry staff and learn how to identify neighbourhood trees. Registration required. Info: 416-397-7717 ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 794 Kingston Rd., 2 blks. east of Main St. Pastor is Rev. Fr. Joshua Roldan. Lent & Easter Schedule: Confession is available each Friday evening of Lent from 6pm to 6:45pm. Also on Friday evenings, a Holy Mass at 7pm and Stations of the Cross at 7:30pm. Palm Sunday Masses: Sat. Vigil (Apr 12) 4:30pm, Sun. (Apr 13) 9 & 11am. Holy Thursday (Apr 17) no 8:15am Mass only Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7pm. Good Friday (Apr 18) no 8:15am Mass only Liturgy of the Word and Communion at 12 noon & 3pm. Holy Saturday (Apr19) no 4:30pm Mass only Easter Vigil at 8:00pm. Easter Sunday (Apr 20) Masses at 9 & 11am. Regular Mass times continue every Sat. (Vigil) at 4:30pm, every Sun. at 9am & 11am, Tue. to Fri. at 8:15am. Info: stjohnsto.archtoronto.org, 416-698-1105

BEACH UNITED CHURCH, 140 Wineva Ave., invites you to share in worship with us each week. We offer a combination of in person and YouTube livestream opportunities on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Good Friday service will be held April 18 at 10:30 a.m. in our Main Hall. We will also have an Easter Sunrise Service at Leuty Station on April 20 at 7 a.m., along with our Easter Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. with communion in our Main Hall. Info: beachunitedchurch.com ST. PAUL’S UNITED CHURCH CLIFFSIDE, 200 Mcintosh St., Scarborough (Kingston Rd. & Midland). A warm welcome and wonderful music. Good Friday, April 18 – 10:30 a.m. The Passion According to St. John – dramatic reading. Bach “Erbarme dich” (St. Matthew Passion). Easter Sunday, April 20 – 10:30 a.m. Christ Is Risen, Hallelujah! Handel “I Know My redeemer Liveth” (Messiah), Handel “Eternal Source of Light” BEACHES PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 65 Glen Manor Drive. (S of Queen). We are an inclusive and affirming congregation in the heart of the Beach. BPC has strong commitments to community service and social justice issues. We provide non-perishable food for those in need through our Free Food Pantry located outside the church building. On the 2nd Wednesday of every month we host a Coffee Outreach from 1-3 p.m., an opportunity for people in the neighbourhood to gather for coffee, snacks and fellowship. April 17 Maundy Thursday Potluck Dinner & Service starting at 6 p.m. April 18 Good Friday service at 10 a.m. and April 20 Easter Sunday at 10 a.m. Info: www.beacheschurch.org, 416-6995871. Minister: The Reverend Katherine McCloskey FALLINGBROOK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 35 Wood Glen Rd. Please join us for our Holy Week events. All are welcome! Fallingbrook is an affirming congregation and is accessible by a lift. Holy Week Events include: Stations of the Cross: April 15-17 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and April 18 from 12:15 -2 p.m. Maundy Thursday Seder Supper, April 17 at 6 p.m. in the Friendship Hall, 7:30 p.m. Communion Service with Good Friday worship at 10:30 a.m. on April 18. Please join us as we celebrate the Risen Christ at our Easter Breakfast at 9 a.m. in the Friendship Hall with prayers and Easter Worship at 10:30 a.m. April 20. Please join us on Live Stream via Facebook or through our church website. Minister: the Rev. Angela J. Cluney, Music Director: Nick Jessome. Special music on Good Friday and Easter from our cellists Ed Hayes and Marie Gelinas, and our Fallingbrook Church Choir. We hope you can join us! Info: fboffice@ rogers.com, 416-699-3084, fallingbrookpresbyterianchurch. com. Easy access by TTC from the Victoria Park subway. GRANT AME CHURCH, 2029 Gerrard St E., invites you to our Sunday Worship Service at 11 a.m. in person or live stream on YouTube and Facebook. Bible Study Wednesdays at 7 p.m. on ZOOM. Please join us in prayer Wednesday mornings at 6:30 on our prayer line. Dial-in No.: 1 587 405 1252 Access Code: 700 6901#. Info: www. grantame.com, grantamechurch@yahoo.ca, 416-690-5169 THE CHURCH OF ST. AIDAN (Anglican), 2423 Queen St. E. All are welcome to join us for our Holy Week services. Maundy Thursday (with choir & communion) April 17, 7 p.m. Good Friday, April 18, 12 noon (with interactive reading of the Passion story). Great Vigil of Easter, Sat., April 19, 8 p.m. (with choir & communion). Easter Sunday, April 20, 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. (both with choir & communion). We are an energetic, active faith community committed to following Jesus as we gather for meaningful worship, spiritual growth, and community engagement, living this out through our vibrant children’s and youth programs, diverse sacred music offerings, and active community outreach and environmental stewardship ministries. On Sundays, we welcome you to join us for worship at 8:30 a.m. (spoken service) and 10:30 a.m. (with music and children’s and youth programs). Busy Bees drop-in playgroup for ages 0-3 and caregivers features stories and crafts on Thursdays, 10:00-11:30 a.m. in the Parish Hall. Out of the Cold dinners are served Mondays from 5-6:30 p.m. Weekly euchre on Tuesdays 7-9 p.m., enter from the northeast side door. It’s $5 to play, with all proceeds benefiting outreach. Info: www.staidansinthebeach.com, 416-691-2222

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny at Centre 55

Scarborough Southwest candidates forum set for April 16

‘Candidates’ from Page 1

The Elections Canada Returning Office for the Beaches-East York riding is located at 2575 Danforth Ave., and can be reached by phone at 1-866-236-8618. The Returning Officer for Beaches-East York is Jeff Paulin. SCARBOROUGH SOUTHWEST

Bill Blair – Liberal.

Amanda Cain – Green.

Imran Khan – Centrist Party of Canada.

Christine Nugent – Marxist-Leninist.

Michael Poulin _ People’s Party.

Fatima Shaban – NDP.

Asm Tarun – Conservative.

The Elections Canada Returning Office for the riding of Scarborough Southwest is located at 2581 Eglinton Ave., and can be reached by

phone at 1-866-281-5089. The Returning Officer for Scarborough Southwest is Ismail B. Pirani.

Scarborough Southwest voters can learn more about their candidates at a forum slated for Wednesday, April 16, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the West Scarborough Neighbourhood Community Centre, 313 Pharmacy Ave.

Candidates Blair, Shaban, Poulin, Nugent, and Cain are scheduled to attend the forum which is being presented by a number of local organizations including Scarborough United Neighhourhoods (SUN).

The forum will begin at 7 p.m. with opening statements from each candidate, followed by a moderated debate and a Q&A session. Residents wishing to attend can register in advance, but

capacity is limited to 150 seats and will be managed on a first-come, first-seated basis. Guests can also attend the forum via Zoom or Facebook. To learn more about the Scarborough Southwest candidates forum and to register for the event, please visit https://lu.ma/5qcf9uev TORONTO-DANFORTH

Julie Dabrusin – Liberal. Clare Hacksel – NDP. Ashik Hussain – Conservative.

Silvia Stardust – Green. Liz White – Animal Protection Party.

The Elections Canada Returning Office for the riding of Toronto-Danforth is located at Holy Name Church, 606 Danforth Ave., and can be reached by phone at 1-866714-6692. The Returning Officer for Toronto-Danforth is Sarah Bennett.

PHOTO: ALAN SHACKLETON

Centre 55 on Main Street hosted its annual Breakfast with the Easter Bunny event on the morning of Saturday, April 12. Youngsters and their families who attended had a chance to enjoy a pancake breakfast and a visit with the Easter Bunny who was warmly welcomed.

Chestnut Park® Real Estate Limited, Brokerage | chestnutpark.com

Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd. brings beauty and function to outdoor spaces

Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd. has been transforming outdoor spaces in Toronto’s east end since 2007, bringing a unique blend of craftsmanship, experience, and dedication to every project.

With a focus on the Beach, Leslieville, and Scarborough Bluffs communities, the company has built a reputation for high-quality landscaping that enhances the beauty and functionality of home exteriors. By maintaining a customer-centred approach, Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd. ensures that each project reflects the unique vision of the homeowner while delivering long-lasting results.

“A great design plan and then executing it well” is what inspires Managing Director, Fred Middleton the most about landscaping. That dedication to vision and execution has earned Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd. a reputation for delivering high-quality work at mid-level prices, making professional landscaping more accessible to homeowners without compromising craftsmanship.

The company’s journey began as a family affair, rooted in a personal project that sparked a passion for landscaping. Faced with the challenge of transforming a backyard with a steep reverse ravine, the team leveraged their multi-generational experience in construction and landscaping to create an awe-inspiring series of terraced gardens, stairways, and footpaths.

This ambitious project not only solved a complex landscaping problem but also laid the foundation for Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd. As friends and neighbours took notice, requests for help began pouring in, leading to the company’s official launch. Since incorporating in 2009, Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd. has remained committed to its original values of quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

The company prioritizes transparency and communication, ensuring that every contract includes all the necessary work to achieve the homeowner’s vision within the estimated price. “We make sure the contract includes all work required to match their vision for the prices estimated, so there’s no disappointment at the end,” Middleton emphasizes.

Sustainability is also at the core of Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd.’s approach. The

team actively incorporates eco-friendly practices into their work, such as directing water flow toward gardens and lawns whenever possible, installing rain barrels, recycling existing plants, and using clean, high-quality topsoil to refill gardens. By working locally, they also minimize wasted time, fuel, and energy, further reducing their environmental footprint.

Working in the Beach, Leslieville, and Scarborough Bluffs for Middleton and his team is more than just business; it’s about being part of a community. “We truly love these areas and feel at home working here. Seeing our work as we drive around will remain satisfying for years to come, but also seeing former clients and neighbours when we return to areas we’ve worked before. There are some streets where many of the homeowners know our staff by name.” This deep-rooted connection to the community is a defining aspect of Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd.

Over the years, Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd. has established itself as a trusted name in Toronto’s east end. Unlike larger companies that stretch their services city-wide, Greenhouse focuses on a select number of neighbourhoods, allowing them to build a strong local presence and maintain a reputation for excellence. Their commitment to staying local means that the team is deeply invested in their work, knowing that their reputation is built on every project they complete. Clients can feel confident that their landscaping needs are in the hands of a team that is not only skilled and experienced but also passionate about creating beautiful, functional outdoor spaces that stand the test of time.

Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd. continues to grow while staying true to its founding principles. Homeowners who value personalized service, expert craftsmanship, and a team that truly cares about their property need look no further. With each new project, Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd. reaffirms its dedication to enhancing Toronto’s residential landscapes, one home at a time.

Ready to transform your outdoor space? Contact Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd. today to schedule a consultation and turn your landscaping vision into reality by going to www.greenhouselandscaping.ca

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Fred Middleton, Managing Director of Greenhouse Landscaping Ltd., has been leading transformative landscaping projects across Toronto’s east end since 2007.

Greek Independence Day Parade takes place on Danforth Avenue

The Greek Independence Day Parade took place along Danforth Avenue on the afternoon of Sunday, April 6. The parade was organized by the Greek Community of Toronto, and saw a large turnout of participants and spectators. The parade commemorates Greece’s independence from the Ottoman Empire following the revolution in 1821. Greece officially gained independence in 1830 after the London Accords recognized it as an independent state. Greek Independence Day is celebrated on March 25, and the parade is held on a Sunday close to that date along Greek Town on the Danforth.

PHOTOS: JOSHUA MCGINNIS

Bernie FLetcher

Lights! Camera! Action! Some action-packed thrillers filmed in the east end of Toronto are popular around the world, including Reacher, Fubar, Cross, The Madness and The Handmaid’s Tale.

If you want to see a hulking hero beat up nasty villains, try watching Reacher (Prime Video) which is now filming its fourth season in Toronto until June 20.

You might spot Alan Ritchson around Leslieville in his tough guy role as ex-military policeman Jack Reacher. Trouble always seems to find the drifter wherever he goes.

In these chaotic times, everybody loves a hero. Even the CBC’s 22 Minutes got into the act by photoshopping P.M. Mark Carney onto a Reacher poster: “He owns nothing and he’s here to help. He’s Canada’s Reacher.”

different one of Lee Child’s novels.

the penguins are slapping back. The evidence of madness is right there in black and white.)

Colman Domingo plays media pundit Muncie Daniels who stumbles upon a dead body in a cabin deep in the woods and becomes a murder suspect.

Muncie uses his brain more than his brawn. It’s like a modern day The Fugitive, an innocent man on the run.

Ritchson has a big appetite for food and realism. He insisted on doing most of his own stunts and was knocked unconscious in an epic fight scene. An assistant brought him some treats from Craig’s Cookies (908 Queen St. E.) to help him recover. The actor loved the cookies so much the owner named one after him (“the Alan”) and sold it to raise money for charity.

“Alan was born to play Reacher”

- Lee Child

Each eight-episode season of Reacher is based on a

The name came to the author when an elderly woman asked him to reach a product on a high shelf. His wife joked that if his writing didn’t pan out, Child could always be a “reacher” in a supermarket.

Though set in the U.S.,the series is filmed mostly around the GTA. The first season found Reacher in small town “Georgia”. Due to COVID a replica village set was built in a farmer’s field in Pickering. For season three a mansion in Caledon (with a CGI ocean) stood in for Maine.

Leslieville is a popular location because of its proximity to the Studio District. Scenes were filmed around Jones Avenue, Gerrard Street East, Greenwood Avenue and Leslie Street as

well as on St. Clair Avenue East and Kennedy Road in Scarborough. A funeral scene was shot in St. James’ Cemetery.

Reacher spends a lot of time in motels and diners. Do you remember when Kingston Road had a thriving motel district?

Some scenes were shot at the Maple Leaf Motel near Morningside Avenue and Moodie’s Motor Inn between Pickering and Ajax. Diners included Ted’s Restaurant in Highland Creek, the Lakeview Lunch, George St. Diner, the Cabana Pool Bar and the Black Dog Pub near Rouge Park.

Director Clement Virgo grew up in Regent Park and attended Danforth C.I. Scenes were filmed around the east end, including the Ritz Restaurant on Donlands Avenue in East York, Pinkerton’s Snack Bar on Gerrard Street East, Moodie’s Motor Inn, Winter Garden Theatre, Parkwood Estate in Oshawa, the Comrade Bar on Queen Street East and U of T Scarborough.

You may spot another big actor biking around Toronto. Arnold Schwarzenegger is back as a spy in Fubar 2 Boat scenes in the first season were filmed near the Cathedral Bluffs Yacht Club. The action thriller genre is mostly a “boys’ club”, but a new Reacher spin-off stars Maria Sten as Frances Neagley, a Chicago P.I.

On The Late Show, Alan Ritchson explained why his character resonates with viewers: “It’s wish fulfillment. He’s righting wrongs right away. I love that! I want to be that person in the world so I see myself in Reacher. We see what we want to see in the world through the lens of Reacher. We want to see justice righted immediately. We all want to kill bad guys, don’t we?”

Another very popular streaming series is The Madness on Netflix, a fresh take on the conspiracy thriller.

You might guess The Madness is about the clown circus in Washington D.C. that is slapping tariffs on penguins, but the series is set in Pennsylvania and filmed mostly around Toronto. (No word on whether

Also watch for Elisabeth Moss to return this month (10 episodes on Tuesdays) as June in the sixth and final season of The Handmaid’s Tale which is a little too close to home these days given the loss of rights south of the border.

June fled Gilead for Canada with past echoes of slaves escaping on the Underground Railroad. Now June and Serena are on board a train headed into danger.

Let’s hope all the oppressed women find safety and freedom here in the true north strong and free! Moss has said, “Our story is coming to a close” but we can’t get rid of Aunt Lydia. We’re back in dystopian Gilead with Margaret Atwood’s novel The Testaments. An adaptation is filming in Toronto with events 15 years after the original series.

It’s fictional, right? Good defeats evil? We can only hope. Praise be.

Actor Alan Ritchson runs through Toronto’s St. James’ Cemetery in this scene from the television series Reacher.

Federal Election 2025

Beaches-East York candidates answer our questions

QUESTION 1: Please tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are running in this election?

I’m running in this election because I believe in a fairer, more just Canada—one where people don’t just get by, but can thrive. Far too often, this isn’t the case now and I know we can make different choices to support Canadians.

Growing up in a community-minded and union household, I understood early on that progress must be fought-for and no one should be left behind. Seeing real wins for workers and social justice shaped my commitment to advocacy and led me to a career in the labour movement and community organizing.

For the past 18 years, I’ve worked to secure fair wages, safer workplaces, stronger rights for workers and equity-seeking groups and deliver real change. I’ve served as Communications Director for the Canadian Auto Workers union (CAW) and Unifor, as Executive Director of the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL), and currently as the department head for Communications and Political Action at the United Steelworkers union (USW), where my efforts recently have involved fighting the U.S. tariffs.

My work has focused on amplifying workers’ voices, strengthening workplace protections and pushing for inclusive policies that reflect our diverse communities. I also colead the USW’s national 2SLGBTQIA+ working group, ensuring that equity remains at the forefront of our work. Over the years, I have been involved in a number of community organizations and volunteer at my daughter’s school - Bowmore Public School. I am an engaged community member, with the drive to make things better. Beaches–East York deserves leadership that puts people first—fighting for affordable housing, better healthcare, strong public education and good jobs. I’m running because I know that when we organize, we win. I will bring my experience, passion and commitment to Parliament to ensure that members of our community are never left behind and can thrive in Beaches–East York.

QUESTION 2: Why is your party and your party leader the best one to deal with the threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, and how will your party support Canadians impacted by tariffs and other American policies towards Canada?

Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency brings serious threats to Canada’s economy, jobs, and sovereignty. Whether it’s reckless tariffs or attacks on our public services, Canadians need a government that will fight back.

Jagmeet Singh and the NDP are ready to meet this moment with the courage and clarity it demands.

Here’s what we would do: We’d implement a strong Team Canada approach that brings provinces, trade unions, industry groups and other stakeholders to the table—because unity is our strength. We’d keep all options on the table, including potentially cutting the flow of critical minerals to the U.S. We would ban American companies from bidding on federal government contracts, if we have the capacity here in Canada. We would also update procurement rules to favour Canadian companies with unionized labour and who provide decent wages and benefits. We would increase Canadian content requirements and prioritize Canadian-made building materials, like steel, every infrastructure project. For workers hurt by U.S. tariffs, we would boost Employment Insurance (E.I.) and overhaul the system to provide better benefits, faster access and coverage for gig and self-employed workers. Every dollar from retaliatory tariffs would go directly to support workers in impacted industries like steel, aluminum, and auto. Here in Toronto, we have fewer workers affected directly in their workplaces by tariffs but there will be implications up and down supply chains and in seemingly unrelated

QUESTION 1: Please tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are running in this election?

I’ve been lucky to represent our community. I was raised here, went to Bowmore and Malvern back in the day, grew up playing baseball at Ted Reeve and Stan Wadlow, and will always consider this home. Amy and I are raising our two boys here and I’m looking forward to coaching East York baseball again this summer.

As your MP, I’ve done my best to speak up when it mattered, make our politics about ideas, and work across party lines to get things done.

Many of you will know that I’ve got a record of disagreeing with my party on occasion. I will continue to use my voice to push our government to be the best version of itself, and to engage in policy conversations through my podcast (uncommons.ca).

In many ways, my advocacy has also helped to shape the government’s agenda, including action to support low-income workers, protect kids online, save lives in the opioid crisis, deliver stronger climate action, improve animal welfare, increase pediatric cancer research, defend civil liberties, and more.

I’ve also worked to deliver affordable housing and transit, and to ensure that we’re a strong partner for our city. As the housing minister for a short time, I finalized a deal to help the TTC acquire new subway cars, delivered $500 million to unlock Toronto’s waterfront, and created Toronto Builds with $2.55 billion in federal low-cost financing to get new rentals and affordable housing built.

After a tough provincial leadership race, I’d planned to spend more time with my young family and return to law. But I’ve been drawn back in by the opportunity to make a difference on the important housing file and because there is so much at stake in this election.

In this particular moment, experience matters.

The most important question in this election is who is best placed to stand up for our economic and national interest against Donald Trump. And the choice is a clear one, because we need serious leadership in this moment of crisis.

Prime Minister Carney has a wealth of experience and a track record of managing crises.

As the Governor of the Bank of Canada, he helped our country navigate the Great Recession.

The late Conservative Finance Minister Jim Flaherty recognized Carney for his “invaluable support” and thanked him for “the work he has done and the advice he has given to keep Canada’s economy strong, protect Canadian jobs, and maintain the stability of our monetary system.”

Subsequently, as the Governor for the Bank of England, Carney helped Britain manage through Brexit, having warned the country of the potential negative consequences of such a decision.

In only a short time as Canada’s Prime Minister, he’s shown a calm and competent leadership style in responding to Trump and in working with provincial and territorial leaders to break down internal trade barriers.

To respond to Trump’s continued threats and tariffs, we’ve laid out a three point plan: to fight, protect, and build.

Fight: we have imposed retaliatory dollar-for-dollar tariffs, including reciprocal 25 per cent tariffs on auto, steel, aluminum, and more.

QUESTION 1: Please tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are running in this election?

My name is Diane Marie Joseph. I was born and raised in Toronto and am proud to be a first-generation Canadian, the child of immigrant parents who journeyed from Jamaica and Antigua in search of a better life. Their courage and determination laid the foundation for the opportunities I’ve been fortunate to receive.

My educational path took me through Seneca College, and I later expanded my horizons by working across diverse industries. I spent a decade as a banker with two of Canada’s top banks. This experience taught me not only the ins and outs of money management, negotiation, and understanding of business management but also the importance of teamwork and strategic planning. I furthered my education in natural nutrition, delving into holistic healthcare to understand how well-being is intertwined with our everyday lives.

Professionally, I’ve spent my career as a social worker, dedicating myself to supporting marginalized and vulnerable groups—including single mothers, abused children, seniors, and families navigating hardship. These experiences have not only shaped my worldview but have also grounded me in the belief that real change happens when we listen, act with compassion, and advocate boldly for those who are often unheard. Perhaps most importantly, I have worked as a social worker, engaging directly with marginalized groups, including single mothers, abused children, broken families, and seniors. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the varied challenges that affect real people and reinforced my commitment to creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

I’m running in this election because I believe our communities deserve leadership informed by diverse experiences and unwavering dedication to the well-being of all Canadians. I bring a blend of financial expertise, holistic health insights, and a passion for social justice—qualities that I will use to work tirelessly on behalf of every member of our community.

As an independent candidate, I don’t answer to a party or a party leader—I answer to the people. That’s what makes me uniquely positioned to respond to challenges like those posed by U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration’s policies toward Canada. While party leaders may be tied to internal politics and agendas, I am focused solely on what’s best for Canadians—no compromises, no spin.

When it comes to tariffs and aggressive trade tactics, we need representatives who will stand firm, advocate fiercely, and prioritize the well-being of Canadian families, workers, and small businesses. As someone with a background in social work, I’ve seen firsthand how economic strain affects real people — especially those already on the margins.

One of the ways we can soften the blow of U.S. tariffs is through targeted tax cuts. For businesses affected by increased import costs, tax relief can help them stay competitive, preserve jobs, and avoid passing those extra costs onto consumers. And for everyday Canadians, cutting taxes means more money in their pockets, helping to offset rising prices at the grocery store and the gas pump. It’s about practical, immediate relief for those feeling the squeeze.

I will support policies that protect Canadian industries, push for fair and respectful trade relationships, and ensure that the burden of American policies doesn’t fall on the backs

SHANNON DEVINE NDP

DIANE JOSEPH INDEPENDENT

NATHANIEL ERSKINE-SMITH LIBERAL PARTY

Federal Election 2025

Beaches-East York candidates answer our questions

JACK PENNINGS GREEN PARTY

QUESTION 1: Please tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are running in this election?

I have been a resident of the riding, living near Michael Garron Hospital, for 22 years. My wife and I raised our family here and feel like we chose one of the best parts of the city to live in. I grew up in Scarborough and have lived in Alberta and in Toronto’s west end before coming to live here.

My academic training was in social work (Master’s) and most of my working life has been spent in IT and software development. For the past 18 years I have worked in mobile device security. These may seem like divergent paths but as a result I bring technical knowledge and social insights to my candidacy. Earlier, I worked in the addictions field, landlordtenant advocacy, and in disability rights advocacy.

I am relatively new to the Green Party of Canada (GPC). If any one thing made me go Green, it is the various failures around carbon pricing by the main federal parties. It is (or was) a completely rational and sensible approach to carbon reduction – at least the Liberals made the attempt. But politics has prevailed over responsibility, and I’m afraid a similar fate awaits other equally sensible initiatives in the future. I find this very concerning, and had to turn to the only party that has the environment in its DNA.

In the face of developments in the US, I see this election as the most important one for Canada since the 1988 Free Trade Election. At such a time it is a privilege to run as a candidate in our riding. It’s great to engage with neighbours, discuss our common concerns, and learn what people are thinking in relation to the challenges we face.

In the face of a hostile America, our next set of parliamentarians should put their differences aside and put the country first. Voters need to consider what party and leader will follow this course.

Cross-party co-operation has always been the M.O. of the Green Party, which is centrist in its outlook. Of the party’s two co-leaders, Elizabeth May is the better-known and has earned formal recognition by fellow parliamentarians as: most knowledgeable, hardest working, best orator, and parliamentarian of the year. She is well-suited to set the tone for a country-first parliament and be a leader within it.

The 2025 GPC platform will be available before the national leaders’ debates. So far in the campaign, no specific policies have been announced along the lines of supporting affected workers or economic sectors, but please watch for them.

In advance of the full platform release, the GPC has released a document called Protecting Canada with many ideas for national defense. Expect more of the same in our final platform.

A recent policy announcement outlined GPC plans for a 120,000-member paid civil defense corps to strengthen Canada’s resilience and sovereignty.

It would address multiple threats: to infrastructure, the arctic, security including cyber threats, and natural disasters. In addition the Protecting Canada document proposes improving public awareness about emergency preparedness.

Another recent announcement lays out GPC plans for a Federal Strategic Reserve of key raw resources in order to safeguard jobs, stabilize prices, support housing construction, and more.

We support the notion of an East-West energy corridor, but with the aim of accelerating electrification for true energy in-

Continued on Page 23

JOCELYNE POIRIER CONSERVATIVE PARTY

QUESTION 1: Please tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are running in this election?

Born and raised in east-end Toronto, and a proud BeachesEast York resident, I’m committed to honesty, compassion, and hard work.

I’m also a Chartered Professional Accountant with nearly a decade of experience helping organizations navigate change, manage risk, and get the most value out of every dollar. These are skills I believe are urgently needed in government today.

Outside of my professional work, I’m an award-winning community leader and lifelong volunteer — from my early days as a Girl Guide to leading philanthropic efforts, I’ve supported causes helping poverty reduction, youth, seniors, medical illness detection and treatment, and the environment, just to name a few. I’ve always believed in giving back and building strong, resilient communities.

I’m running because I believe Canadians deserve better. A future where hard work is rewarded. Where young people can afford to live in the neighbourhoods they grew up in. Where families don’t have to choose between rent and groceries. I’ve spoken to a countless number of residents who feel like life keeps getting harder, while government offers no real solutions.

Canada is an incredible country — rich in resources, talent, and heart. But we’re not living up to our potential. I want to bring common-sense, results-driven leadership to Ottawa — grounded in fiscal responsibility and compassion. We need bold ideas and collaborative action to restore hope, affordability, and confidence in our future.

This election is about more than party lines — it’s about improving the quality of life for everyday Canadians, especially here in Beaches-East York. I’m ready to serve with strength, humility, and purpose — and to be a strong local voice fighting for the change we need.

First, we must ask — why is Canada so vulnerable in the first place? After nearly a decade of Liberal policies that blocked energy development, increased taxes, and ignored economic self-reliance, we now face the consequences: higher costs, weakened supply chains, and a reliance on unstable trade relationships.

Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative Party have a plan to restore strength, independence, and clarity in how we engage with the U.S., especially in the face of Donald Trump’s tariff threats. Our approach starts at home — with a focus on economic resilience and energy security.

We’ll cut income taxes by 15 per cent, eliminate the industrial carbon tax, lower taxes for capital gains that are reinvested in Canada, and remove the GST on new homes under $1.3 million. These changes will ease the burden on families, encourage investment in our economy, and help retain talent by making Canada a more attractive place to live, work, and build a future.

To reduce dependence on foreign energy and trade, we’ll build a Canada First Energy Corridor from coast to coast, approved in partnership with Indigenous communities, to ensure we get our resources to market. We’ll also eliminate sales tax on cars made in Canada and support manufacturing and agriculture sectors vulnerable to U.S. tariffs.

The “Keep Canadians Working Fund” will help protect jobs during trade disruptions, while we pursue trade diversification to avoid overreliance on any one partner.

Continued on Page 24

ELIZABETH ROWLEY COMMUNIST PARTY

QUESTION 1: Please tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are running in this election?

I’m a parent of two adults, and the grandparent of an almost two year old. I’ve lived in East York for 37 years, and was a public school trustee on the East York School Board when the Harris government attacked education, teachers and students in the 1990s. The fight put up by teachers and educators, parents, students, unions and the public helped bring down that right-wing government, and protected public education for a generation.

I am very proud to have been a part of that, and I think we’re in a situation today where similar action – on an allCanada basis – is needed to assert our sovereignty and independence, to protect jobs and living standards, and to secure Canada’s immediate withdrawal from Free Trade agreements with the U.S. We need fair trade with the world, not free trade with the U.S. And further, we need to oppose massive expenditures on war, which will inevitably lead to war, and to environmental and nuclear catastrophe.Withdrawing from NATO and NORAD will save $100 billion next year that can be used instead to fund universal social programs like Medicare, public and post-secondary education, quality public childcare, and to support and expand public services like the CBC and Canada Post.

I was elected leader of the Communist Party of Canada in 2016, and am proud to have led the only party in Canada that has consistently opposed the NAFTA and USMCA deals since the 1988 federal election.

We need:

• a trade policy that is multi-lateral and mutually beneficial with all countries.

• Employment Insurance reform to raise payouts to 90 per of previous earnings and cover the entire period of unemployment.

• plant closure legislation with teeth, to force companies to justify plant closures before public tribunals with the power to prevent closures, order fines, and jail CEOs.

• nationalize the auto industry, starting with GM, Ford, and Stellantis, and build a Canadian car, municipal transit, inter-urban transit, busses, and trains.

• put Air Canada and CN under public ownership and democratic control, and restore affordable transit of people and goods across Canada.

• create value added jobs in manufacturing and secondary industry

• rebuild ship-building, machine tool, and appliance industries.

We need to:

• roll-back and freeze prices on food, fuel, and housing,

• build affordable social and public housing across Canada through a public agency like CMHC, not private developers and landlords. Housing is a right.

• fund cities with adequate grants.

• reverse privatization of healthcare and social and public services.

• raise pensions and lower the pension age to 60.

• enact a Guaranteed Annual Livable Income.

• raise corporate taxes, double the corporate tax rate, collect deferred taxes.

• axe the GST/HST, and eliminate taxes on incomes under $50,000.

Continued on Page 24

Cost of rental units questioned

‘Affordability’ from Page 5

According to Gilbert, the proposal for the 56-storey building has “No kind of affordable housing proposed beyond the market rental units at this time.”

However, he said securing affordable housing at the site could potentially be investigated at a later stage. “It’s something we can look at, but generally, just the feasibility of rental apartments right now cannot withhold the additional constraints to deliver rental apartment units as part of the greater project,” said Gilbert.

According to Fitzrovia’s research, Gilbert said 30 per cent of Toronto’s population would be able to consider rental costs at the site affordable.

“When we look at these types of projects, we do consider incomes in Toronto. When you look at average rents between $2,500 and $5,000 for say, a large three-bedroom, these units are affordable for around 30 per cent of the Toronto population,” he said.

“When you look at earning incomes, which is how you calculate affordability, is basically 30 per cent of your income, that’s kind of how we look at it. This project would fall within 30 per cent of those folks that can afford it and meet the affordability threshold.”

He mentioned that changes to Section 37 agreements (in which developers provide money to a municipality for community improvements) has put more responsibility on the city to provide benefits such as affordable housing.

“The entire proposal for the whole master plan included over $7 million of Section 37 contributions, and it’s essentially us writing a cheque and giving it to the city in exchange for the density that was proposed on site. That has not changed and that can be spent in any sort of capital cost that the councillor sees fit. That could go towards things like affordable housing,” said Gilbert.

City of Toronto Senior Planner Seanna Kerr clarified that community benefits provided as a result of Section 37 funding will be a topic of discussion later in the application process.

“We do have a Section 37 agreement on the site, so once we come to a built form that everybody can agree on, at that point we’ll start to discuss community benefits that could be provided on the site,” said Kerr.

Smith followed up on his question regarding affordability by saying the proposed building will only cater to those within a high-earning income bracket, and that those within that bracket would most likely be looking to buy and not rent property.

are the people looking to buy, if they can. So, I just don’t know who this building is catering to in terms of who’s going to be able to afford and want to live there.”

Gilbert said the building’s units would be marketed to the “general public” despite rental prices only being applicable to 30 per cent of Torontonians. He also said the developer’s recent projects often catered to what they believed are “underserved demographics, such as young families, empty nesters and downsizers, as well as young professionals that appreciate the enhanced amenity offering, community events and dynamic highrise living with low maintenance.”

He emphasized that some of the developer’s other projects in the city cater to those living within a lower-income bracket.

“We do have a number of vintage apartment projects across the city which have the same level of property management and event planning that are strictly rent-controlled. We have about 1,000 rent-controlled apartments across Toronto that do cater to a more affordable bracket with a larger floor plan and cost per square foot than some of our newer projects,” said Gilbert.

Above all other beneficial factors, including bringing more rental homes to the city and meeting the demand for more rental apartments, Bousfield’s Rajan said the proposed building’s proximity to both the Main Street TTC station and Danforth GO station played a key role in the developer’s decision to call for a high-rise residential building at the location.

However, Smith said he believes most residents in these new buildings will have little use for the GO trains. He said he fears the increased population density will put more strain on what is an already extremely busy Main Street Subway Station during rush hours.

“I don’t think anyone has really considered the on the ground transit situation here in that the GO station isn’t terribly useful for people who live in the area and want to travel through Toronto,” said Smith. “Main Street station at rush hour, it’s full to bursting at the platform. People are practically falling off it onto the tracks, so I don’t really understand if anyone here is really taking account of how crushing transit already is at Main Street, and then you’re going to have thousands upon thousands more people to what is already inadequate transit.”

Kerr said both the TTC and Metrolinx (the operator of GO Transit) are made aware of developments within their transit hub space, and that it is up to them to accommodate the rise in population density at their respective stations.

“It sounds like you’re aiming for rental rates that will only be affordable to the top 30 per cent of incomes in Toronto. And I’m just curious if you’ve also explored the fact that the people who are in that bracket aren’t typically looking to rent,” said Smith. “Those

Residents who couldn’t attend the March 31 meeting and would like to provide feedback can do so by sending an email to Kerr at Seanna.kerr@Toronto.ca

Residents concerned about plan’s impacts on ravine

‘Plan’ from Page 2 (Toronto and Region Conservation Authority) and concerns the inadequate setback from the top of the slope. The Official Plan policy requires a setback of at least 10 metres from the top of bank of valleys and ravines. According to the City’s Report for Action the setback is 0 metres. There is no buffer between the proposed development and the top of the slope of the Glen Stewart Ravine, the current application does not provide an adequate setback or buffer to the Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) and encroaches into the ESA.”

The City of Toronto website describes an ESA as a space within Toronto’s natural heritage system that requires special precautions to preserve its environmentally significant qualities and protect wildlife. Many ESAs in the city are found in ravines, river valleys and along the waterfront.

The city’s website states that “Development is not permitted and activities are limited to those that are compatible with the preservation of their natural features and ecological functions such as managed trails and viewing areas. Environmentally Significant Areas are protected by the Official Plan and zoning and by the Ravine and Natural Feature Protection By-law. Most Environmentally Significant Areas are located within the City’s parkland system, which is owned by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority or the City of Toronto and managed by the City.”

According to Daly, despite the ravine being designated as an ESA, the development application includes the removal of seven ravine trees, including severe damage to an

83.5 cm DBH (Diameter at breast height) red oak tree.

The development will also have an impact on the wildlife habitat, particularly the nesting/breeding habitat for “Special Concern” and rare wildlife species such as the Eastern Wood-Peewee and bat maternity colonies, said Daly.

On Nov. 12, 2024, Gabriel Homes brought their proposal to the OLT, citing Toronto Council being unable to make a decision on the application within the timeframe established by the province’s Planning Act as the reason for doing so.

Michael Genin, a Beach resident of 13 years, is calling on Beaches-East York MPP Mary-Margaret McMahon and Beaches-East York Councillor Bradford to “represent community interests,” at the OLT’s Case Management Video Conference on May 14.

In an email to Beach Metro Community News, Genin said the proposal for an 11-storey building is an “egregious overstep” in zoning, and the original seven-storey proposal would have made more sense.

“The most frustrating part? The developer could have made housing available years ago had they respected zoning and environmental issues,” he said.

Genin is also concerned that approval of this proposal by the OLT would set a precedent for other properties in the area. “Zoning laws and environmental protections should not be up for negotiation,” he said. “The Beach community deserves transparency when it comes to what is allowed to be built in their neighbourhood.”

For more information on the Ontario Land Tribunal, please visit https://olt.gov.on.ca/

With each transaction we complete until July 1, 2025, we will proudly donate $250 to The Grace Pascoe Food Bank and The Bluﬀs Food Bank.

Karmic Kocoa offers innovative approach to flavours at chocolate shop in the Beach

By Mai Ha

A NEW chocolate shop has arrived in the Beach, offering a unique blend of Indian and global flavours.

Karmic Kocoa is located at 2375 Queen St. E., and was founded by Jag Saran.

Specializing in handcrafted chocolates infused with “bold and adventurous flavours,” Karmic Kocoa offers chai masala, mango and cayenne, passion fruit and turmeric, and even the viral Dubai chocolate bar. Saran said her shop’s chocolates push the boundaries of traditional flavours, while paying homage to her cultural roots.

Before opening Karmic Kocoa, Saran refined her chocolate-making skills at the Chocolate Academy in Montreal. Her journey into the chocolate business, however, started long before that.

Saran first ventured into chocolate making in mid-2023, after being laid off from a corporate job the previous year. Inspired by a friend’s suggestion to explore her next steps, she experimented with flavours, beginning with chili chocolate, then chai masala, which set her on the path to developing her signature flavours.

Initially, Saran planned to work from home but changed course after learning that a chocolate shop in the Beach had recently closed.

“I had come by to look at some equipment as my thinking was I would continue working from home but just having the right equipment would allow me to work a little faster,” said Saran.

Instead, she found herself captivated by the space which is just west of Beech Avenue.

The postal strike late last year had caused some of her equipment and packaging supplies to be delayed at the U.S. border.

“There was a moment of paralysis where I wasn’t going to do anything. I just thought December’s a wash,” said Saran.

However, thanks to some advice from a friend, Saran decided to get into motion despite the equipment and packaging challenges. “He said, ‘I have a plan, you’re going to make truffles, you’re going to dip things in chocolate and you’re opening your doors,’” said Saran of her friend’s advice.

The grand opening turned into a community effort, with friends and family rearranging their schedules and stepping in to help.

“I think that was the bigger lesson of knowing when to ask for help,” said Saran.

She said what sets Karmic Kocoa apart from other chocolate shops, is its innovative approach to flavour.

“People are willing to take the leap with me on the taste profile. And I have to say, I’ve been getting a lot of repeat customers, and a lot of positive feedback,” said Saran.

Her flavour offerings include a blend of bold and traditional profiles.

Some of her most unique creations include saffron, chai masala, mango cayenne, passion fruit turmeric, and rose salted caramel cardamom.

For those with a more classic taste, traditional options are available, such as coffee, salted caramel, Bowmore (whiskey), and passion fruit Grand Marnier.

from customers.

“A lot of people have this hard rule — fruit doesn’t belong in chocolate,” said Saran. But after trying the pairing, many have changed their minds about the combination, she said Saran also makes her own Dubai chocolate, with an Indian twist of shredded filo pastry with cashew butter, cardamom and raisins.

Karmic Kocoa may still be in its early days, but Saran remains hopeful about the shop’s future.

“It’s a small shop; it’s a small offering to start. I’m just going to see what the future brings,” she said.

“It’s very rare that you’re handed a ready-move-in retail space,” said Saran

Karmic Kocoa officially opened on Dec. 14, 2024, but the launch was not without challenges.

Saran said flavours are available in both milk and dark chocolate, catering to different palates.

Her fruit-infused chocolates, such as mango and cayenne or passion fruit and tumeric receive the most surprises

For more information on Karmic Kocoa or to place an order, please call 647354-6425 or contact info@karmickocoa. ca

Mai Ha is a student journalist contributing to Beach Metro Community News as part of her studies.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Jag Saran opened Karmic Kocoa on Queen Street in the Beach in December of last year.

PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

Your gateway to connecting with skilled professionals in our community

Interested in advertising your business in our Professional Directory? Contact carolin@beachmetro.com or 416-698-1164 x 22 for rates. Your Professional Directory ad also appears on our website: beachmetro.com

Dashwood & Dashwood

Barristers & Solicitors

Geoffrey J. Dashwood 961 Kingston Rd. Tel. 416-690-7222 Toronto, M4E 1S8 Fax. 416-690-8738

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DR. PAULA MICELI

Clinical/Health Psychologist Consultations • Individual Therapy Virtual & In-person Services Over 9 years experience. 416-275-3735 www.drpaulamiceli.com

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Snider & DiGregorio

Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries. 978 Kingston Road, Toronto, Ont., M4E 1S9 Tel: 416-699-0424 Fax: 416-699-0285 Email: info@sdlegal.ca

Melani Norman CPA, CMA Accounting Issues and Systems, Bookkeeping, Personal and Corporate Taxes Call 416-471-0337

Patrick Ruiz Professional Corporation CPA, CA An accountant you can count on For your Small Business Self-employed income & investments Real Estate Rentals 647-300-4062 • patrick@prtaxcpa.com

Accepting New Clients Professional accounting and bookkeeping services tailored to your needs. I provide expert financial solutions for individuals and small businesses. www.magnoliabizsolutions.ca Email: magnolia_mbs@outlook.com

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All listings may also be viewed at beachmetro.com

KATHRYN WRIGHT

Barrister & Solicitor Family Law & Mediation 416-699-8848 2239 Queen Street East www.kathrynwrightlaw.com kathrynwrightlaw@gmail.com

GARRY M. CASS

BARRISTER & SOLICITOR, TEP Wills/Estate Administration/Advice to Estate Trustees 416-767-CASS (2277) x 207 416-795-4899 (cell) 416-491-0273 (fax) garry@garrycass.com

Glover & Associates

Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries Real Estate, Family, Litigation Wills & Estates, Corporate 416-691-3700 Queen and Hammersmith

Peter J. Salah Family Law Lawyer 124 Merton Street, Suite 300 We Collaborate, Negotiate & Litigate 416.752.8128 peter@salahlaw.ca www.salahlaw.ca

KAMRUL HAFIZ AHMED REAL ESTATE LAWYER 416 690 1855 [P 416 690 1866 [F 2972 DANFORTH AVE.

QUINN Family Law

Shelley C. Quinn, LL.B., LL.M. (Family Law) 2 - 921 Kingston Rd. t. (416) 551-1025 www.QuinnFamilyLaw.ca

Grande, J.D. Barrister, Solicitor, Notary

Shelly Pereira, Paralegal Commissioner/Notary, Small Claims, Landlord & Tenant/other Tribunals, Municipal Offences, Letters & Mediation. Call for a Free 30 min. Consultation 647-693-6240 Toronto info@toronto-paralegal.net

Balmy Beach Rugby Club set to celebrate 70th anniversary

By Joshua McGinnis

AFTER DECADES of championships, hardfought victories, and gruelling seasons, the Balmy Beach Rugby Club is celebrating its 70-year history in the community by paying tribute to former members and the organization’s long and storied past.

From June 4 to 7, the club will host a fourday event to honour its long-standing history in Canadian rugby. Community members and alumni are invited to take part.

The celebration begins Wednesday, June 4, with a gala dinner at the Balmy Beach Club. The event will feature a three-course meal and a guest speaker.. Tickets are $100 per person, $180 per couple, or $800 for a table of eight.

On Thursday, June 5, Balmy Beach Rugby Club alumni will host a golf tournament at Riverside Golf Course, a scenic nine-hole course in Pickering Village. Tickets are $125 and include green fees, food, refreshments, and transportation.

On Friday, June 6, a pub night will take place at the Balmy Beach Club.

The festivities conclude on Saturday, June 7, with Club Day at Tubs & Gee Gage Field. The day will feature four senior men’s matches and one senior women’s match, showcasing the depth and diversity of the club’s talent.

Tickets and full event details for the Balmy Beach Rugby Club’s 70th anniversary celebrations can be found at: https://balmybeachrugby.com/70th-anniversary

Founded in 1955, Balmy Beach Rugby Club has become one of Canada’s most successful rugby organizations.

The senior men’s team holds the most provincial titles of any club in Ontario, including the McCormick Cup and Gee Gage Cup.

The Balmy Beach Rugby Club also has a storied football legacy, with two Grey Cup championships in 1927 and 1930 — a separate chapter of the club’s rich athletic history.

The rugby club was launched when Dennis Fletcher and local sports figure Ted Reeve discussed bringing rugby to a neighbourhood dominated by football and hockey.

Reeve introduced the sport to community members, who quickly embraced it and formed the club’s first rugby team in 1955. Some of the team’s surviving members will be attending the 70th anniversary and will be honoured at the event.

Gerry Allan, the club’s current chairman, reflected on the club’s legacy during a recent tour through the building with Beach Metro Community News.

“There is an athletic history here that everyone tries to live up to — from our paddling club to our football accolades, including

two Grey Cup wins, and all the other sports we’ve been successful in. When you put on the Beach colours, there’s a feeling of playing for one another,” said Allan.

“Almost all of the junior coaches are former players who return with their sons or daughters playing in the U8 to U18 programs. I don’t know of another club in Canada with that kind of community.”

One of Allan’s favourite memories is from 1981, when a team of retired players won a provincial championship.

“The first team had qualified for the provincial championships, but most of the players had already committed to a tour of Western Canada. For the opposing team from Owen Sound, it was their first time qualifying, so we didn’t want to delay. A group of retired coaches and I organized a team of past players and trained four times a week for a month. The game was close, but we won in overtime. That’s one of my favourite memories — we came together and won another title for the club.”

Balmy Beach Rugby Club alumni, including Brian Spanton, Doug and Matt Underwood, Iain McLeish, and Scott Dunham, are among a long list of alumni who have represented Team Canada on the international rugby stage..

Since 1955, more than 25 players from the club have gone on to represent Canada internationally. Many of them return to the club to coach and mentor younger players.

Spanton, a former national team player and current assistant coach, credits the club’s success to its strong alumni network.

“Many of the former players were also teachers and coaches who brought students to the club. They became senior players after high school,” he said.

“The coaching and administration in recent years have been fantastic. Our club president, Iain McLeish, works tirelessly in a volunteer role.”

Spanton also recalled a memorable victory: “In the early 1980s, we played in the McCormick Cup — then known as the Carling Cup. Paul Durr scored a try in overtime and we won in sudden death.”

From 1980 to 1990, Balmy Beach’s senior men’s team captured seven championships in 10 years.

“Rugby teaches values. It builds relationships and helps prepare you for adult life,” said Spanton.

The Balmy Beach Rugby Club continues to thrive, having most recently won the McCormick Cup in 2022 and again in 2024.

Alumni, supporters, and fans are all welcome to join the celebration and honour seven decades of Balmy Beach Rugby Club pride.

PHOTO: JOSHUA MCGINNIS

With numerous players having represented Canada and the most provincial titles of any other club in Ontario, the Balmy Beach Rugby Club has a proud history.

FOR SALE

Federal Election 2025

Toronto-Danforth candidates answer our questions

QUESTION 1: Please tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are running in this election?

There’s a lot at stake in this election. I’m running because I love our east end community and I believe in standing up for it, just like I believe in standing up for our country.

I’ve lived in the east end for almost 30 years.

Before I was elected in 2015, I worked with local food banks, farmers markets, parks groups, and parent associations to make our community a better place. When Mayor Rob Ford tried to shut down local services, like our school pools and libraries, we stood united and together, we won.

My focus is, and always has been, how to build a better city, support small businesses that keep our main streets vibrant, and make our east end strong.

When I was elected, I brought that focus to Ottawa. While there’s more still to be done, we have new affordable housing being built in our community, including new rental housing, more support for everyday costs thanks to programs like dental care and an enhanced OAS and GIS, and new green spaces including a park that will open this summer.

I’ve also worked with our local BIAs to improve our local streets with festivals, murals, and new public spaces like the Alexander the Great Parkette, all of which help bring people to explore our small businesses.

This is no time for Conservative cuts or Pierre Polievre’s American-style politics. Mark Carney has the experience and responsible approach we need to support Canadians, protect our economy, and stand up to Donald Trump.

Being there with real support for those most impacted, tearing down interprovincial trade barriers and making significant investments in workers and the skilled trades are all important parts of how we address this unprecedented challenge.

As your local MP, I will be laser-focused on how these tariffs are impacting people and businesses in our community.

Throughout the pandemic, I made sure that your feedback was heard and included in the measures the government rolled out.

As we face this big challenge, I’m in your corner to advocate for what you need and how we stand together to weather this storm.

QUESTION 3: Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, what do you see as the next most important issue in this election and how will you and your party address it?

I’m a parent, so I know how much it matters to build a good future for our children.

As a longtime environmental advocate, I’m proud of what we’ve done to launch Canada’s largest-ever conservation efforts, bring our emissions down to their lowest levels in 27 years, make historic investments in public transportation, and ban harmful single-use plastics and microbeads.

As we look to what’s next, we have the opportunity to build a clean, competitive economy where big polluters pay their fair share and everyday families have green, affordable options.

With his experience as a global climate leader, I am confident that Mark Carney has the experience and vision to deliver real results as we fight climate change, protect nature, and leave a healthy planet for our kids and grandkids.

QUESTION 1: Please tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are running in this election?

My name is Clare Hacksel (she/her). I’m a midwife, a mother, and a long-time resident of Toronto-Danforth, where I live with my husband and our kids. I was raised by a single mom who ran a small business on Queen Street after my father passed away. Her resilience taught me the value of hard work and looking out for one another, values that have shaped my life and career.

For over 20 years, I’ve worked on the front lines, in homeless shelters, sexual health clinics, and now at Michael Garron Hospital. Every day, I see what people in our community are going through: families struggling with the cost of living, renters barely holding on, seniors choosing between food and prescriptions. These aren’t isolated cases, they’re systemic failures.

After years of broken promises from the Liberals, I’m running because I believe Toronto-Danforth deserves better.

We’ve been promised bold action on housing, healthcare, and climate, and we keep getting half-measures and delays. I’m tired of governments that say the right thing and do the opposite. Just in this campaign alone, we’ve seen the Liberals allow Canadian arms to be illegally sold to Israel.

The progress we have seen, $10/day childcare, dental care, and pharmacare, only happened because the NDP pushed for it. And I know we can do so much more for Canadians.

I’m stepping up because I know what it means to serve. Healthcare workers don’t show up for praise, we show up because we care.

That’s what I’ll bring to Ottawa: a voice grounded in frontline experience, and a commitment to fighting for the future we all deserve: affordable housing, real climate action, and a government with integrity that puts people first.

The NDP has always stood with working people, from its roots in Prairie co-ops during the Great Depression to fighting today for families facing rising costs and economic uncertainty.

In the face of growing threats from Donald Trump, we don’t need more political posturing, we need a real plan that protects Canadians and strengthens our economy.

Trump is erratic, self-interested, and dangerous, a friend today, an enemy tomorrow. He’s already threatening tariffs that put Canadian jobs and industries at risk. I’ve met workers in Toronto-Danforth already facing layoffs just from the uncertainty. We need action that puts people first.

ing to help more doctors move and work in Canada and between provinces this will strengthen services that can’t be outsourced or tariffed.

Jagmeet Singh and the NDP understand that the best response to Trump isn’t to follow, it’s to lead. With courage, clarity, and compassion, we’ll defend Canadian jobs, values, and our communities.

QUESTION 3: Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, what do you see as the next most important issue in this election and how will you and your party address it?

Affordability is a defining issue of this election.

Even before Trump, Canadians were struggling. From sky-high housing costs to rising grocery bills and stagnant wages, families are being squeezed and unless we make different choices, things will only get worse. The Liberals don’t understand what regular folks are going through.

As a midwife, I see the impact on young families every day. Parents have to choose between paying for medication or paying the rent. At the Bethany Baptist Food Bank, where I volunteer, the line for basic groceries grows longer every month. In Toronto-Danforth, tenants live in fear that their homes will be bought up by corporate landlords like Brookfield, who hike the rent or push people out altogether.

There’s no silver bullet, but we can take bold, practical steps. As your representative I will work to ban corporations from using federal loans to buy up rental housing and instead redirect those funds to help tenants form co-ops and support nonprofits in keeping homes affordable. I’ll demand that we expand pharmacare to cover all medications, saving families hundreds every year while reducing strain on our hospitals.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Beach Metro Community News sent these questions to all of the federal candidates we were able to contact in the ridings of Beaches-East York, Scarborough Southwest and Toronto-Danforth.

Due to our print deadline and the fact that registrations for candidates at Elections Canada closed on April 7, not all candidates we sent these questions to responded in time for them to be published in this edition of the newspaper.

Please visit our website at www.beachmetro.com for more information on the candidates and this month’s federal election.

Also, please remember that Election Day Monday, April 28. Don’t forget to vote!

That’s why the NDP is proposing Victory Bonds, a modern update of the tool that helped Canada mobilize during World Wars I and II. This isn’t about fear mongering, it’s about readiness. These bonds will raise funds without raising taxes, and invest directly in job-creating infrastructure, clean Canadian manufacturing, and industries we can count on for the long haul.

We’ll also ensure that no worker left behind by U.S. trade threats falls through the cracks. EI must be expanded to cover everyone facing job loss, these workers did everything right and deserve our support.

And let’s invest in what makes us resilient: universal healthcare. We’ll streamline licens-

We’ll also stand up to the grocery giants. Right now, a handful of companies control our food supply. It’s time to break up these monopolies and cap the price of core grocery items, while promoting real competition and choice for consumers. And we’ll strengthen consumer protection laws to stop price fixing and corporate collusion because no one should have to pay inflated prices while CEOs rake in profits.

Real solutions to the affordability crisis won’t come from status quo politics.They’ll come from leaders who know what working families are going through and who are willing to fight for them. That’s what I’m committed to doing, that’s what I bring to the table.

CLARE HACKSEL NDP

JULIE DABRUSIN LIBERAL

Answers from Beaches-East York candidates

Shannon Devine

Continued from Page 14

sectors so we must have a broad understanding of the issue.

QUESTION 3: Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, what do you see as the next most important issue in this election and how will you and your party address it?

While knocking on doors and talking to our neighbours in Beaches–East York, I have been hearing that the most important issue for most people in our community is the rising cost of living—and the growing sense among Canadians that no matter how hard they work, they just can’t get ahead.

New Democrats are focused on making life more affordable—and we’ve already shown we can deliver. Since the last election, we used our power in Parliament to make real progress for Canadians: we fought for and won a national dental care program that’s already helping over 3.3 million people and saving families up to $1,700 a year. We worked hard to secure a national pharmacare plan that will make birth control and diabetes medication free. We also delivered on a long-held promise of a national affordable child care plan, one that has been promised by numerous governments and never realized.

But we know there’s more to do. New Democrats will scrap the GST on everyday essentials like groceries, diapers, kids’ clothes, restaurant meals, phone and internet bills and home heating. We will put a price cap on basic grocery items so that prices aren’t continuing to rise exponentially as we have seen since the pandemic. We will fix the gaps in the dental care program so millions more people can qualify and we will expand pharmacare to cover more life-changing medications. Already in Beaches–East York many of our neighbours are using this program and many more will soon. We will also tackle the housing crisis head-on—building more homes that people can actually afford, and working with provinces to implement rent control, ban renovictions, and end unfair lease practices. We will also support connecting the new building efforts to community benefits agreements so that the local community can benefit from training and good job opportunities. We’re ready to make life fairer, more affordable and more hopeful for everyone in Beaches–East York and across Canada. I am committed to delivering for our community.

Nathaniel Erskine-Smith

Continued from Page 14

Protect: we’ve expanded Employment Insurance, announced a new $2 billion fund to secure a Canadian-made auto supply chain, and committed to all tariff proceeds being returned to support workers. Build: we will turn this economic challenge into an opportunity by building more housing and infrastructure across Canada than we have seen in decades. It is time to build. We will defend our sovereignty, protect our workers, and build a strong and resilient economy.

QUESTION 3: Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, what do you see as the next most important issue in this election and how will you and your party address it?

Apart from Donald Trump, housing affordability is our most pressing challenge. It is central to generational fairness, productivity, and equality of opportunity. We have an ambitious and comprehensive plan that will drive down the costs of home building, get the government back in the business of building homes at a scale not seen since the Second World War, and treat housing as a home first.

Drive down building costs: we will reduce development charges - taxes on housing - by 50 per cent for multi-unit builds, massively invest in innovation and off-site construction, and double down on successful efforts that reward municipalities that cut red tape and approval times.

Get the government back in the business of building affordable homes: we’ve launched a series of useful housing programs, from our broader National Housing Strategy to the more recent Co-op Housing Development Fund, Rental Protection Fund, Public Lands Initiative, and more. We’ve committed to action at a scale to match the housing crisis, including through a new public builder to maximize public land for affordable housing, financing for innovative Canadian home building, grants and loans to support community housing for students, seniors, and those experiencing homelessness, and tax incentives to help nonprofits, land trusts, and purpose-built rental housing.

Housing as a home first: we will lift the GST from new builds up to $1 million for firsttime home buyers.

Our housing plan meets the moment, and will help to turn a huge challenge into an economic opportunity.

Diane

Continued from Page 14

of working families. Whether it’s through smart tax reform, investment in local supply chains, or direct support to impacted sectors, I’ll fight to keep Canada strong, independent, and compassionate.

QUESTION 3: Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, what do you see as the next most important issue in this election and how will you and your party address it?

Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, the most urgent issue in this election—at least for me—is the deepening inequality affecting too many Canadians.

I’ve sat with single mothers struggling to find affordable child care, fathers laid off and feeling hopeless, seniors quietly enduring unsafe housing conditions, and families stretched to the breaking point by rising costs.

As a social worker, these aren’t statistics to me — they’re stories I’ve lived alongside. They’re people I’ve served, cried with, and fought for. And I carry them with me in every conversation, every decision, and every step I take on this journey.

Affordable child care is not just a women’s issue—it’s an economic one. Families need reliable, accessible care so they can work, study, and build a better future. Unemployment continues to hit vulnerable communities the hardest, and we need targeted support and training programs to get people back to work with dignity and purpose. And then there’s housing — how can we call this a just society when so many can’t afford a safe place to live?

As an independent, I have the freedom to advocate boldly and directly. I’m not here to protect a party line — I’m here to protect people. I’ll push for investments that reflect our values: dignity, fairness, and compassion. Whether it’s child care subsidies, job creation in underserved areas, or real solutions to Canada’s housing crisis, I will be relentless in ensuring that no one gets left behind.

This election is not just about diplomacy or trade deals — it’s about people.

It’s about building a Canada where we all have the opportunity not just to survive, but to thrive.

dependence, rather than continuing fossil fuel reliance. Excess power production can provide affordable electricity to communities and for manufacturing activity.

QUESTION 3: Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, what do you see as the next most important issue in this election and how will you and your party address it?

I would say the next most important issue is that of generational fairness. This is the “long term” part of the national conversation we need on building a more resilient and distinct country. Let’s give younger Canadians a stake: in a Canada they want to live in and can be proud of; that is distinct from the US and the MAGA outlook; and that is worth defending. All points below relate to this.

Affordable housing is critical and the progressive parties are in broad agreement on this. Excessive regulations need to be reduced and government needs to get back in the housing business. Greens will insist on sustainability and accessibility, gentle density, and avoiding sprawl by building within existing city and town boundaries.

We can fight the move toward authoritarianism with more democracy at home. Primarily this means moving toward a proportional system of representation, which the GPC has long advocated for. Our current FPP system bakes in partisanship and promotes cynicism and apathy.

It is essential to support the arts. Canadian artistic content reflects Canadian life. Supporting our own artists is a key way to keep a distinct Canadian mindset alive and well. I have a concern that modern electronic media has eroded our sense of distinctiveness, especially among the younger people who have grown up with it.

On spending and deficits the GPC is fully conscious of the need to live within our means and routinely releases costing along with its platform. If we are going to build Canadian resilience, the tax cuts other parties are promising are an odd place to begin.

On climate change, let’s be responsible: the GPC supports sustainable power over the new pipeline mania, which is fraught with economic risk. If we sign international climate agreements, we need to live up to them.

Next advertising deadline is Monday, April 21

Continued from Page 15

Canada must lead with confidence, protect our sovereignty, and defend our economic interests without backing down. Poilievre will always put Canadian workers and industries first, while maintaining strategic and respectful international relationships.

This is about restoring strength at home so we can stand tall on the world stage — and ensure Canadians are never again this exposed to external pressures beyond our control.

QUESTION 3: Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, what do you see as the next most important issue in this election and how will you and your party address it?

The number one issue I hear about in Beaches-East York is affordability. People are struggling to keep up — rent is up, groceries are expensive, and mortgage payments are crushing families. Many young people feel they’ll never be able to own a home, and seniors are stretching every dollar. This is not the Canada we grew up believing in.

The Conservative Party has a real plan to make life more affordable. We’ll cut income taxes by 15%, axe the industrial carbon tax (a major driver of food and fuel prices), and eliminate the GST on new homes under $1.3 million. We’ll reduce capital gains taxes and allow reinvestment in Canada without penalty — helping people build wealth here at home.

For working seniors, we’ll lower their taxes, allow continued RRSP contributions up to age 73, and protect benefits like CPP, OAS, and GIS. We’ll reward municipalities that build more housing and reduce red tape to get homes built faster. As your MP, I’ll work to ensure that new developments come with proper infrastructure — including healthcare, education, and transit access — so communities grow responsibly. Affordability is intersectional with safety and well-being. We’ll fix Canada’s broken bail system, support addiction recovery programs, and invest in safer streets — because people deserve to feel secure where they live.

This isn’t just a federal issue. It’s local, it’s personal, and it’s urgent. I want to help restore affordability and hope in our community — so families can thrive, young people can dream big, and seniors can live with dignity. That’s the kind of leadership I’m offering — focused on real solutions that work for the people of Beaches-East York.

We need:

Elizabeth Rowley

Continued from Page 15

• to implement the Calls to Action of the Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Women and Girls, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

• an immigration policy that is fair and just.

• Close the tar sands, ban fracking, move to renewable energy.

• A foreign policy of peace and disarmament.

• A Palestinian state, and an end to genocide in Gaza.

QUESTION 3: Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, what do you see as the next most important issue in this election and how will you and your party address it?

Peace and disarmament, and action on climate change are the related issues that will mean either survival or destruction of the planet.

We have to get out of NATO and NORAD which are offensive – not defensive organizations.

NATO is demanding annual payments of 2 per cent of GDP ($61 billion for NATO), or 5 per cent if Trump gets his way ($150 billion annually). “Up-dating” NORAD will cost $38.6 billion. This is money that both the Liberals and Tories say will come from cuts to social spending.

The proposed purchase of 15 warships will cost $300 billion over their lifetime, and the cost of 88 F-35 fighter jets is $73.9 billion. And the costs will keep rising.

Mr. Carney is also proposing to expand military production in Canada “to create jobs”.

But military production and expenditures means preparations for war, and cuts to social spending, job creation, construction of homes, schools, and hospitals, and to wages, pensions and incomes is going to be cut.

The arms industry is the biggest contributor among government departments, to Canada’s carbon emissions crisis. Cutting the arms budget will reduce our carbon emissions and increase protection of the environment.

It will also give our children and grandchildren a future in the world we are creating with our policies and decisions today.

Neighbourhood Stops and Shops

Dr. Cassandra Vlahaki, Chief Medical Officer and co-founder of Juno Vet, with a Juno Vet patient. Juno Vet is dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality veterinary care while fostering a supportive environment for both pets and veterinary professionals.

Designed for pets and their people: Inside the Juno Vet Experience

For many pet parents, ensuring their furry family members receive great care is a top priority. That’s exactly the vision behind Juno Vet, a growing veterinary clinic with deep roots in East Toronto.

Founded by three long-time friends and east-end residents, Juno Vet is prioritizing both patient wellness and veterinary staff well-being.

Dr. Cassandra, one of the co-founders and Juno Vet’s Chief Medical Officer, comes from a background in both emergency and general practice veterinary medicine. Like many in her field, she experienced burnout during the pandemic, which led her to envision a veterinary practice that puts equal emphasis on compassionate pet care and a sustainable work culture for veterinary professionals.

“Work-life balance and well-being are important to us,” says Dr. Cassandra.

“We’re so proud of our commitment to creating a space where our staff are supported, have a great team culture, and aren’t overburdened by patient loads.”

This approach has resonated with pet parents and veterinary professionals alike.

Since opening its first location in Toronto’s Summerhill neighbourhood in 2022, Juno Vets has rapidly expanded to six more locations - five in Toronto, one in Burlington, and one in Vancouver, B.C.

Despite its quick growth, Juno Vet maintains a strong community focus, with each location staffed by local team members who foster a welcoming and comforting atmosphere for both pets and their owners.

One of Juno Vet’s most helpful offerings is its 24/7 virtual care service. Through video, phone consultations, and chat messaging, registered veterinary technicians provide round-the-clock guidance to concerned pet parents.

“It has been a welcome feature for our pet parents,” shares Dr. Cassandra.

“Virtual care allows us to help clients manage emergencies or minor concerns from home. We can direct them to the closest emergency clinic, book an appointment at their primary Juno location, or simply provide guidance on how to monitor a pet’s symptoms at home.”

This on-demand support provides peace of mind and helps pet parents avoid unneces-

sary emergency visits and expenses.

Sometimes, a pet may just have an upset stomach or a minor issue that doesn’t require immediate medical attention. Having a professional available 24/7 to guide pet parents through these concerns ensures pets receive the right level of care without added stress or financial burden.

In addition to round-the-clock virtual care, Juno Vet offers a full range of services, including teeth cleaning and dentistry, pet behavioural consultations, allergy and dermatology care, and wellness exams, a proactive approach to ensuring pets live long, happy, and healthy lives.

Dr. Cassandra and her co-founders, who all met during their undergraduate studies at Queen’s University, always envisioned Juno Vet to have a strong community focus.

“We believe veterinary medicine is very community-based,” says Dr. Cassandra. “Wherever we go, we’re focused on building strong, local care teams that truly understand the community.”

This philosophy has allowed Juno Vet to grow while maintaining its warm and welcoming neighbourhood feel. Each clinic is designed to be a comfortable space where pets and pet parents alike feel supported.

Plus, with Juno’s expanding network, clients can access care at any Juno location across the country - a major perk for travelling pet families.

Juno Vet operates as a membership-based practice, which allows the team to offer a personalized and consistent care experience.

With membership, pet parents gain access to 24/7 virtual support, digital records and care reminders through the Juno app, clear and transparent pricing, the flexibility to visit any Juno location, and timely in-clinic care when it’s needed most.

Join thousands of other pet parents and become a Juno member today. Book now and join Juno for free at www.junovet.com using the code JUNOVETFREE.

Experience veterinary care that prioritizes your pet’s comfort, your peace of mind, and a strong, supportive community.

Gently used books, toys, small furniture and housewares accepted prior to April 30th Large item pick-up is available Cash donations are greatly appreciated and go directly to this incredible cause. Monetary contributions over $20 are tax deductible. Come on out on Saturday May 3rd to pick out some treasures for charity

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Federal Election 2025

Scarborough Southwest candidates answer our questions

QUESTION 1: Please tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are running in this election?

I am a Scarborough resident, born and raised here in Scarborough Southwest. With an education in Corporate Communications, I managed Youth Economic Development Programs in Neighbourhood Improvement Areas (NIAs) for the past 20 years before resuming my Communications consultancy. I worked in the arts and entertainment industry prior to my work in the non-profit sector. As an active community advocate, I have been addressing issues of education and training, economic development and civic engagement for the past 30 years.

I believe in building strong communities that support our most vulnerable citizens and have focused much of my attention on building policy on poverty reduction. Notable highlights of my community involvement include: The Youth Employment Managers Network and Children’s Services Advisory Committee with the City of Toronto, Board of Directors for Jessie’s - the June Callwood Centre, and the Ontario Campaign 2000 for Poverty Reduction. I also volunteer in various Toronto food banks delivering groceries to those who are housebound. My experience in the environmental sector includes volunteering with the Lake Ontario Waterkeeper, Ocean Wise clean ups, The David Suzuki Foundation Guildwood Butterfly Rangers, and The Malvern Food Security Committee. I love serving my community.

This is my third bid for Scarborough Southwest with the Green Party. I am providing an option to those concerned the government isn’t doing enough to reduce our Greenhouse gas emissions. We should be leading the cause on the international stage.

I’m running for our future generations. Your children and grandchildren deserve to grow on a healthy planet - not one challenged by massive changes in climate and extreme weather events. I’m running for low-income earners who struggle to put food on the table and pay their basic bills. I represent the common person in Scarborough Southwest fighting to be heard.

Our Green party co-leader Elizabeth May has stated “Counter-tariffs and retaliation are not enough to protect Canadian jobs, but we could better protect all regions of Canada by creating strategic reserves of Canadian raw resources—such as forest products, aluminum, potash, bitumen, and uranium—to increase our economic leverage and clout while ensuring Canadian producers can sell their products. Canadian Crown corporations operating strategic reserves will buttress our economy and allow us to better weather the storms Trump imagines will bring us down.”

Last month the Green Party of Canada released the “Protecting Canada” plan which addresses the threat landscape emerging from the hostile Trump administration, border issues, building stronger ties with the international community, protecting funding for national public media and defence of our sovereignty. In regards to supporting our labour market workers, the Green Party will expand the Employment Insurance (EI) benefit by adding to the number of weeks one can receive assistance and the weekly amount provided. Sector staff will also see gains in how quickly they will be able to access EI support for those directly affected by President

Trump’s trade war. Greens are committed to offering retraining funds if the individual would like to change sectors.

As your Member of Parliament, I stand for investments in the manufacturing sector for clean, ethical tech and Electric Vehicles produced here for Canadians as well as exploring new export markets and leading a new economic alliance away from the U.S. with stronger bonds between democracies and smaller states. In each challenge there is a place for innovation, bold new ideas and opportunities to be seized with the right political will.

QUESTION 3: Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, what do you see as the next most important issue in this election and how will you and your party address it?

Canada is in a serious affordable housing crisis due to government inaction and poor policies.

Housing is being treated as a commodity rather than a basic need. The Green Party will tackle this crisis by investing in new, low-cost housing and the renewal of existing government-owned or funded housing. We will increase CMHC support for Cooperative Housing Federation of Canada members and their provincial associations to access education on how to apply for new development funds and ensure current co-op mortgages are renewed.

I will fight alongside the Green caucus to make sure that housing that the Federal government funds with your tax dollars is truly affordable - priced at no more than 30 per cent of the person actually in need of that housing.

We must also ensure that new housing construction does not increase Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions and invest in methods to reduce emissions from existing homes. As a soon-to-be Grandmother, I am deeply concerned about the future and the world my children and grandchildren will live in. I aim to ensure a world where there is a balance between our economic and social needs and the natural environment. The Green Party of Canada has the vision and plan to address this. The economic turmoil caused by actions from the United States means Canada must create a new economic model. The Green Party offers a pathway to a new economy that will create employment in a fiscally responsible and environmentally sustainable manner. As your Member of Parliament for Scarborough Southwest, I will work towards creating this new environmentally sustainable economy, that balances economic and environmental actions to ensure no one is left behind and everyone benefits from living in this great country – Canada!

QUESTION 1: Please tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are running in this election?

Canada has given me the opportunity to establish myself as a family physician with six primary and specialist clinics across the GTA and build a meaningful life for my family.

Now, with our two children in university, my wife and I feel it’s time to give back to the society that helped us shape our success.

I believe the way to do that is by offering compassionate leadership rooted in lived experience.

Beyond my medical practice, I have helped many professionals build their careers, have led medical teams supporting refugees, and mentored the next generation of healthcare leaders. I am also an active member of Rotary Club of Toronto Danforth.

Stepping away from my medical career is not an easy choice, but it’s a sacrifice I’m prepared to make to serve the greater good and fulfill my social responsibility.

The Conservative Party of Canada, under Pierre Poilievre’s leadership, is best positioned to deal with the challenges posed by President Donald Trump’s policies through strong, pragmatic engagement and a proven commitment to defending Canadian interests.

Our party has historically maintained strong working relationships with U.S. administrations, built on mutual respect and shared economic values. We understand how to navigate trade relationships while standing firm against unfair tariffs and economic pressure.

We will support Canadians by helping our industries become more competitive, reducing taxes and red tape, and expanding access to global markets to reduce dependence on the U.S.

Above all, we will always put Canadian workers, families, and businesses first.

QUESTION 3: Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, what do you see as the next most important issue in this election and how will you and your party address it?

Beyond Canada’s relationship with the United States, the most pressing issue in this election is the cost-of-living.

Canadians are struggling to afford basic necessities - food, housing, and transportation.

As a physician, I see the emotional and physical toll this takes on individuals and families every day.

Under Pierre Poilievre’s leadership, the Conservative Party has a clear plan to restore affordability by axing the industrial carbon

tax, supporting responsible resource development, and cutting red tape to build more homes.

We will also take strong, practical action to make our communities safer by banning hard drugs, strengthening laws against repeat offenders, and ensuring real consequences for violent crime. Canadians deserve to feel secure in their homes and on their streets.

I am committed to work with toward lowering taxes, making life more affordable, creating jobs, and defending the values that built this country.

This election is about restoring hope and opportunity for every hardworking Canadian.

Please visit our website at www.beachmetro.com for more information on the candidates and this month’s federal election.

Also, please remember that Election Day Monday, April 28.

Don’t forget to vote!

ASM TARUN CONSERVATIVE

AMANDA CAIN GREEN

Neighbourhood Stops and Shops

Dr. Lion Berzin, renowned for his expertise in implant dentistry, combining precision and advanced technology to help patients restore their smiles and improve their quality of life.

This local leader in Implant Dentistry is helping patients smile again

Dr. Lion Berzin has spent his career perfecting the art and science of dental implants, but his expertise goes far beyond just placing them—he’s helping shape the future of the field.

With more than two decades of experience advancing implant dentistry, Dr. Berzin is recognized internationally as a leader in the field.

He holds Diplomate status with both the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry (ABOI) and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI)designations that reflect the highest level of competence in implant care. He also serves as an Examiner for both the ABOI and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), helping evaluate and certify the next generation of implant professionals.

In more than 20 U.S. states, ABOI Diplomates are officially recognized as specialists in implant dentistry—demonstrating the rigorous training, clinical expertise, and peerreviewed assessments required to achieve this distinction.

Dr. Berzin is also a Past President of both the AAID Central District and the ABOI. In addition, he is an Honoured Fellow of the AAID and continues to serve on its Admissions and Credentials Board. As the Founder and Director of the Toronto Implant Continuum and a Faculty Instructor with the Misch International Implant Institute, Dr. Berzin is undoubtedly at the forefront of implant education, mentoring clinicians across North America.

While Canada does not yet recognize implant dentistry as a designated specialty, patients at Dr. Berzin Implants benefit from his unmatched knowledge, hands-on expertise, and commitment to clinical excellence.

His journey into the field began early. Growing up in Johannesburg, South Africa, he was inspired by his father, a general surgeon, and fascinated by the precision of surgical procedures.

“It’s always been an interest of mine,” he says. “As a teenager, I would watch my father operate, and it became a passion.”

That passion led him to dentistry, where he found his true calling in implantology— helping patients regain confidence, function, and quality of life through advanced dental solutions.

Tooth loss is about more than just appearance. It can affect overall health, leading to bone loss, difficulty eating, and even an in-

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creased risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Dental implants offer a permanent, natural-looking solution that helps maintain jawbone structure and restore full function, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

At Dr. Berzin Implants, patients experience a seamless, stress-free process, with every phase of treatment handled in one place.

“A lot of offices refer patients to different specialists for various stages of implant therapy, which can be overwhelming,” Dr. Berzin explains.

“Here, we take care of everything under one roof, ensuring a comfortable and efficient experience from start to finish.”

Advanced technology plays a significant role in that experience. Dr. Berzin Implants uses Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scanning, an imaging system that provides detailed 3D views of a patient’s teeth and jaw. This technology allows for precise planning and placement of implants, increasing accuracy and improving overall treatment success.

“CBCT imaging lets us assess every aspect of a patient’s oral health before we begin,” says Dr. Berzin. “It helps us anticipate challenges, improve outcomes, and make the entire process smoother and safer for our patients.”

Beyond his work with patients, Dr. Berzin is deeply committed to education and innovation in implant dentistry. He leads a study club for other dentists, teaches at conferences, and actively certifies professionals through the ABOI and AAID.

By sharing his expertise, he helps push the field forward while ensuring that patients everywhere receive the best possible care.

With a focus on precision, patient comfort, and leading-edge technology, Dr. Berzin and his team at Dr. Berzin Implants are setting a new standard for modern dentistry on the Danforth.

For those considering dental implants, it’s reassuring to know that expert care is available close to home from one of the most respected professionals in the industry.

If you’re ready to restore your smile with confidence, contact Dr. Berzin Implants today to learn more about our expert implant dentistry services. Call 647-352-5577 or visit www.DrBerzinImplants.ca to book your consultation.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Danforth

Easter balloon displays in Parkview Hills to raise funds for local food bank

WHILE MANY communities host Easter egg hunts, in Parkview Hills the place to be on Easter Sunday morning (April 20) is Marilyn Crescent, where they put on a festive balloon display.

The street, tucked off St. Clair Avenue East just west of O’Connor Drive, features the balloon art in support of the Thorncliffe Food Bank.

Beaches - East York

Party of Canada works for bold change—protecting our climate, creating good green jobs,

“We started this six years ago and it has just ballooned — pardon the pun,” said organizer Patti Callahan.

Scores of East Yorkers visit with their families, in cars or on foot, to see the displays created by Marilyn Crescent resident Angela Gipson.

The idea to fill the street

balloon displays will be set up on Marilyn Crescent in Parkview Hills on Sunday, April 20 to raise funds for the Thorncliffe Food Bank.

with balloon art started during the pandemic as a way to cheer up the kids on the street. Last year, organizers Callahan, Gipson, and fellow resident Sarah Albany, had

the idea to raise money for the Thorncliffe Food Bank nearby.

They collected $150 in donations and filled the entire back of a car with non-perishable food items. The residents hope to collect even more this year.

“It’s lots of fun, and we surprise our neighbours with the balloon displays each year,” added Callahan.

The three residents get the balloon displays up by 6 a.m. on Easter Sunday and keep the balloons out until the end of the day on Easter Monday.

Donations to the food bank can be left in the various boxes and cash boxes on residents’ driveways.

Garage Sale for Shelter slated for May 3

ROYAL LEPAGE Estate

Realty in the Beach will host the Garage Sale for Shelter event early next month.

The goal of the event is to raise funds to help women and children escape violence by providing them with a safe, stable place to live.

The Royal LePage Shelter Foundation has been organizing the sales for years, and locally the funds will be raised for the Red Door shelter in East Toronto.

This year’s Garage Sale for Shelter is on Saturday, May 3, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at a number of East Toronto locations.

Local residents can contribute donations for the sales. Items being accepted include gently used books, toys, small furniture and housewares.

Donations will be accepted prior to April 30. Arrangements can also be made for the pick-up of large-item donations.

Residents who would like to donate items are asked to call 416-690-5100 or go online to www.estaterealty.ca/pages/garage-sale-for-shelter for more information. The website also has a list of local garage sale locations. Other options to support the Garage Sale for Shelter include making a donation or attending one of the sales. Monetary contributions over $20 are tax deductible.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED Easter

On The Wild Side

A freezing cold day and red-breasted mergansers

ann and erik BrokeLman

naturephotosbyann.blogspot.ca

Today’s story began on one of those perfect winter days. Well, perfect for those of us who enjoy the winter. It was minus 25, the sky was a crisp blue, and the lake frozen over except for a few open patches of water.

As I made my way around the park, I realized I had the whole place to myself. This is usually a good sign, and maybe I’d get to see some ducks up close.

Sure enough, on one side of a bridge, a pair of mute swans were searching for food in the open water. I watched them dip their heads beneath the surface with the calm determination they always seem to have. Along the icy edge of the water, I spotted two ducks. I paused and wondered: would they stay put, or would they take off before I could get a better look?

I slowly crossed to the other side of the bridge and settled in to wait, hoping they might swim closer my way. I was sitting quietly,

bundled up against the cold, when suddenly—there they were.

They had spiky hairdos, glittering black with water droplets, and long, pointy beaks. These were female, red-breasted mergansers, and were following the swans in the hunt for food. I was glued to them through my camera lens, inching along the edge of the water and trying to get a better angle. What I was really hoping for was a glimpse of them going under the water. Well, the best picture would have been of them literally

under the water, but that’s not the sort of camera I had. Oh, and I don’t go swimming in the summer, let alone the cold days of winter!

With a bit of luck (and a lot of patience), I saw them diving beneath the edge of the ice and surfacing again, each time with a wriggling, brown crayfish in their beaks. Over and over, they did it, clearly finding a buffet down there. Surprise, surprise: I snapped way too many photos of it all. It was cold, it was quiet, and it was magical. I’m so glad I got to witness it. Did you know

that the red-breasted merganser is the fastest duck there is? They can fly up to 161 km/h (100 mph).

When I was learning about them, for a second, I thought I read that they could swim that fast! (That would make them the fastest duck ever recorded.)

Red-breasted mergansers have a wonderfully odd, streamlined shape: long necks, narrow beaks, and powerful webbed feet that make them excellent divers. Their beaks are long and thin, almost like darts, and if you look closely, you’ll see

tiny serrations lining the sides, like little teeth! These help them grip slippery prey like fish and, as I got to witness, crayfish. While many duck species will eat a fish or two if they can catch them, red breasted mergansers are unusual in that they feed primarily on fish. Check out my photo of the one with a crayfish in its mouth.

My second-favourite sighting, from recent days, was an incredible gathering of swans: more than 100 trumpeter swans, one lone tundra swan, and a family of

mute swans, floating peacefully together down on Lake Ontario. It was a breathtaking sight, to see so many in one place. I won’t forget that soon.

As of writing this, most of our northern guests have already moved on—ducks, gulls, and even the swans are making their way back to summer grounds farther north. I know many of you want the warm weather, but I’m hoping for a few more cold mornings. With luck, there’ll be another wave of ducks passing through before spring fully settles in.

PHOTOS: ANN BROKELMAN

Above left, a red-breasted merganser eats a crayfish in this photo take last month by Ann Brokelman. Above right, two red-breasted mergansers swim in Lake Ontario.

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Multiplex consultation meeting slated for Scarborough

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To reach the study team at EHON for more information, contact the study team by email at EHON@Toronto.ca.

- Matthew Stephens

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