Beach Metro News, May 26, 2026 by Beach Metro News

Liberals conﬁrm Haﬁz as Ontario candidate in Scarborough Southwest

By Matthew Stephens

THE ONTARIO Liberal Party has conﬁrmed the victory of Ahsanul Haﬁz as the candidate for the upcoming provincial byelection in Scarborough Southwest.

The party conﬁrmed Haﬁz’s victory in a news release on Sunday, May 24, following an arbitration hearing last week to determine the validity of competitor Nathaniel Erskine-Smith’s appeal of the results from a contentious candidate nomination meeting held earlier this month.

“From the outset, the party committed to an open and transparent nomination process – and that commitment did not waver when a challenge was ﬁled,” said the Ontario Liberals in Sunday’s statement.

“It is precisely because we believe in due process that we made no public statements over the past week.”

Fraser said the party’s focus will now shift to securing another seat at Queen’s Park with the Scarborough Southwest riding.

“With the process now complete, our full attention turns to Scarborough Southwest. As this party has done time and again over the last 160 years, we will unite behind our candidate and work together to win this seat,” said Fraser.

Erskine-Smith, who currently serves as MP for Beaches-East York, had run for the provincial nomination in Scarborough Southwest and launched an appeal of the May 9 meeting’s results that saw Ashanul Haﬁz win the nomination by 19 votes (718 to 699) over Erskine-Smith.

The arbitration hearing on the appeal, chaired by former Ontario Liberal cabinet minister David Zimmer and two other arbitrators not associated with the Scarborough Southwest nomination meeting, was held on May 20,

In the statement, Ontario Liberal Party Interim Leader John Continued on Page 2

Beach Guild of Fine Art Spring Show opens Friday

THE BEACH Guild of Fine Art Spring Show opens this Friday at Beach United Church.

The free, volunteer run event continues through this Saturday and Sunday.

The annual show gives guests the opportunity to support local artists and purchase original pieces, with a portion of proceeds going towards supporting the Beach Guild of Fine Art.

The show will feature a variety of mediums, including oil, acrylic and pastel works, alongside smaller art accessories such as magnets, o ering something for a range of tastes and budgets.

According to Norma MeneguzziSpall, an artist and executive sec-

retary of the Beach Guild of Fine Art, participating artists will bring new work to each show, giving returning guests the chance to see familiar faces while viewing fresh pieces and techniques.

“It’s quite a popular event and we have people who not only come from the Beach and the Beach area, but we’re also drawing people in from outside the Beach,” said Meneguzzi-Spall. “It’s very much a community event.”

The opening reception is on Friday, May 29, from 5 to 8 p.m. Show hours on Saturday, May 30, and Sunday, May 31, are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

Beach United Church is located at 140 Wineva Ave.

ENAGB powwow at Woodbine Park

The ENAGB Indigenous Youth Agency hosted its ﬁrst annual Cultural Festival and Competition Powwow at Woodbine Park last weekend. Though the weather made Saturday’s events challenging, dancers took to the Woodbine Park stage on Sunday for a number of competitions. Photo above, dancers take part in the women’s jingle dance. Photo at left, dancers in the men’s traditional category. The powwow saw participants from across Canada and the United States.

PHOTOS: ALAN SHACKLETON

‘Appeal’ from Page 1

which ruled in favour of Haﬁz’s victory.

“We thank Chair David Zimmer and the members of the panel for the speed and rigour of their review,” said the Ontario Liberal Party in its May 24 statement. “The arbitration committee operates independently under the Ontario Liberal Party Constitution and was established well in advance of this appeal – and Chair Zimmer’s distinguished record in Ontario public life is a reﬂection of the integrity this process deserved.”

In a media scrum immediately after the May 9 nomination meeting at Birchmount Park Collegiate, Erskine-Smith claimed there were a number of irregularities in the process.

“While it’s tough to lose a close one, it’s even more taxing on me to keep ﬁghting. And I thought long and hard about letting it go because that would just be easier (for any future politics, for my own personal life, for my sanity, etc.),” said Erskine-Smith in his newsletter on May 12 explaining why he was appealing the results of the nomination meeting.

“But doing politics di erently is why I left law in the ﬁrst place, and honesty and integrity matter more than whatever might be easier for me personally. So we have appealed.”

Among many allegations regarding the party’s voting process, Erskine-Smith’s central concern noted that 34 unexplained ballots were counted in the ﬁnal result.

In a video posted on his YouTube page, Andreas Katsouris, Erskine-Smith’s Chief Scrutineer with “25 years of experience working with political campaigns,” alleged there were voters providing inappropriate identiﬁcation, taking pictures of their ballots, and “telling voters explicitly what they should do.”

In the last hours of the voting process, Katsouris said the Ontario Liberal Party “lost control of the voting process nearly entirely,” and that “little scrutiny” was enforced.

An analysis of the allegations known as the “notice of appeal validity” obtained by Queen’s Park Brieﬁng pushed back against Erskine-Smith’s claims, noting that Haﬁz defeated Erskine-Smith in a “free, fair, and competitive contest.”

“The central claim – that 34 unexplained ballots existed –is demonstrably wrong on two levels,” reads an excerpt from the document.

“First, the ﬁgure of 34 itself is a double-count: it adds together the balance row total (23) and the unresolved credentials forms (11), when the 11 are already included within the 23. Second, the correct comparison – votes counted (1,501) versus names crossed o the voters list (1,489) – produces a clerical gap of just 12. Twelve is less than the margin victory of 19.”

After serving a decade in federal politics, Erskine-Smith said he now plans to focus on supporting his family and reﬂecting on his next steps. He said he will be stepping down from his federal seat after the House of Parliament rises on June 19 for its summer break.

“I’ll close out more than a decade of federal service, coach my son’s baseball team, support my wife in the ﬁnal months of her PhD, and take time to reﬂect on any next steps with our amazing team,” he said in the May 12 newsletter.

Erskine-Smith’s stepping down from his MP position will also create the need for a federal byelection to be called in Beaches-East York sometime in the future.

The provincial byelection for Scarborough Southwest must take place by Sept. 3, according to Elections Ontario.

PHOTO: MATTHEW STEPHENS

Nathaniel Erskine-Smith speaks at the Scarborough Southwest provincial Liberal nomination meeting on May 9 at Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute.

PHOTOS: ALIZÉE LEGRAIN

Photo above, St. Patrick Catholic Secondary School’s Velocity dance team celebrates being named one of the top three teams in the East at the Endgame Dance competition held at the Felstead Avenue school on the evening of Thursday, May 14. Photos below show the Velocity team on stage at Endgame, and also before their performance started. The Endgame competition saw dancers from 11 Toronto Catholic District School Board high schools participate.

Celebrating Gaby Jacob’s heart and hustle as she prepares to move to Peru

By Lindsay Neuert

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THERE ARE people who move through a community quietly, and then there are people like Gaby Jacob, the type of person whose presence you feel, whose absence you notice, and whose legacy lingers long after they’ve gone.

For more than 30 years, Gaby has been a force of nature in Toronto’s Beach neighbourhood with her spunky, ﬁercely protective, and deeply kind-hearted spirit.

After emigrating from Peru, Gaby devoted much of her life to the children of Williamson Road, the Beaches Recreation Centre, and the broader Beaches community.

For three decades, she showed up for them, looked out for them, and loved them with a ﬁerce and steady dedication that left a mark on countless young lives. She is a constant, safe, familiar presence to chil-

dren as an adult who could always be counted on.

Gaby’s impact rose beyond childcare; she became one of the most tireless community organizers the Beach has ever seen, channelling her energy into bake sales, silent auctions, and grassroots fundraisers that brought the neighbourhood together time and again.

honour of Kyle HowardMuthulingam, and stood beside a neighbourhood boy named Jake who was battling a brain tumour, making sure he and his family knew their community were there for them.

memories I carry is our trip together to her home country of Peru. To be welcomed into her world — the food, the people, the warmth of culture — was a privilege.

What made it truly unforgettable was watching Gaby in her element.

She beamed with pride as she shared a piece of herself, her roots, and her story.

True to Gaby’s nature, the trip also included visits to dog shelters, communities recovering from devastating mudslides, and refugee shelters.

From our local Beach community to across the world in Peru, she was making sure that those most in need were seen.

As Gaby prepares to return to her home in Peru at the end of this month (on May 27), I know myself and the entire Beach community ﬁnd ourselves reﬂecting on just how much of a gift she has been in all of our lives.

She has raised thousands of dollars and awareness for causes that mattered.

Gaby rallied the children of Glen Ames and Williamson Road schools to raise funds for the family of Charlie Mackenzie, a beloved school caretaker who passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a wife and three daughters.

She organized events in

Gaby has led bake sales to send school supplies to Kattawapiskak Elementary School on the Attawapiskat First Nation, and organized fundraisers to support Ukrainian children receiving cancer treatment at SickKids after their own hospitals could no longer safely care for them. The list goes on.

Whenever and wherever there was a need, Gaby found a way to make a difference.

One of the most vivid

For those of us now scattered across di erent cities and entering di erent chapters of life, there is a deep comfort in knowing that someone like Gaby existed in our corner of the world, watching over us, ﬁghting for us, and showing us, by relentless example, what it looks like to truly make the world a better place.

Thank you, Gaby. The Beach will dearly miss, but never forget you.

Beaches Recreation Centre to host Kids Marketplace this Saturday

THE NON-PROFIT organization Kid2Kid is set to host its fourth annual Kids Marketplace this Saturday.

The May 30 event takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Beaches Recreation Centre.

The Kids Marketplace is a mix of indoor and outdoor vendors, with more than 200 young entrepreneurs, ranging in age from four to 15, selling a variety of items including, baked goods, jewelry, accessories, stickers, toys, beauty products and more.

The marketplace encourages entrepreneurship and creativity in kids, while giving back to families and youth in need.

The marketplace raises funds through a silent auction, sponsorships, and the youth vendors, who donate 50 per cent of the proceeds made.

To date, the Kids Marketplace has raised more than $50,000 for various youth programs and charities, including the Red Door Family Shelter in Leslieville.

Alongside the market, there will be live music, dance performances, food, character appearances, and other activities that o er something for all ages.

The silent auction will be held virtually this year. It began online on May 21 and will continue to be live on the website until 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 30.

Featured in the online silent auction will be goods and services from local sponsors and businesses.

“Kid2Kid is about putting the power of giving into kids’ hands,” said co-founders Shah Ruby and Caroline Thompson.

The non-proﬁt, which began in 2019, was created to encourage children to spread kindness through volunteer initiatives, directly impacting children in need.

Kid2Kid runs a variety of events, including the Kids Marketplace.

“Through the Kids Marketplace, young people don’t just learn how to run a business, they experience what it means to support other youth in need. That sense of purpose is what makes this event so special,” said Ruby and Thompson.

The Beaches Recreation Centre is located at 6 Williamson Rd.

For more information on this Saturday’s Kids Marketplace and the online silent auction, please visit www.kid2kid.ca

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Gaby Jacob and her husband Luis. A community activist for decades in the Beach, Gaby will be moving to Peru on May 27.

Public school trustee cut raises concerns about impact on students

By Matthew Stephens

LOCAL TORONTO District School Board

(TDSB) trustees say the provincial government’s decision to reduce the number of positions by half will negatively impact public school students.

“Overall, this move by the Minister will not improve outcomes for students and is not based on governance or education best practices,” said Michelle Aarts, TDSB trustee for Beaches-East York.

“Minister Paul A. Calandra is decreasing the ability of the TDSB to respond to local concerns and that directly impacts family engagement in education.”

Late last month, several days before candidate registrations opened for the 2026 municipal elections, the TDSB released a map of their new electoral wards, reducing the number of trustee positions from 22 to 12.

The latest change comes as part of Bill 101 (Putting Student Achievement First Act, 2026), provincial legislation aimed at restructuring school board governance.

Aarts believes the decision was a political move intended to “silence” parents advocating for improvements to the education system.

“I believe the changes to TDSB are based on partisan politics and are intended to silence the advocacy of Toronto parents,” Aarts told Beach Metro Community News. “Bill 101 negatively impacts the ability of parents and community members to have a say in education.”

Of the 72 school boards across Ontario, the TDSB is the only one currently exceeding the province’s new 12-trustee cap.

But Aarts said exceeding that cap is necessary for the TDSB to adequately represent a higher number of schools compared to other boards across the province.

“Trustees in the TDSB already represent more schools and students than most school boards have in total (there are 26 in Beaches-East York and 33 in Toronto-Danforth),” said Aarts.

“Toronto students and families already have signiﬁcantly less representation than students elsewhere in Ontario. Bill 101 will double the number of students and schools that Toronto trustees must represent, while cutting compensation for the role by 60 per cent.”

In addition to reducing trustees, Bill 101 will also cap salaries for the position, establish a CEO as head employee of the school board, and grant the Ministry of Education extended power over communications.

Toronto-Danforth TDSB trustee Sara Erhardt said the recent changes to school board oversight will shift more power and money to higher levels of management.

“These changes will add more top-level bureaucracy to the education system and

do nothing to fund sta and programs in our local schools,” said Erhardt in an email to Beach Metro Community News.

“While local schools are being told they’ll need to share vice principals and cut teaching positions, this government is paying supervisors $2,000/day and now also requiring both a CEO and a CedO (Chief Education O cer) for every school board.”

Compiled with other ﬁnancial and staing issues, Aarts said TDSB trustees are losing their ability to manage parents’ concerns.

“Trustees already have very little compensation,” explained Aarts.

“The reduction in elected representation in the TDSB is compounded by the reduction in sta ng in the Minister’s Student and Parent Support O ce. The SPSO has less than half the sta to respond to needs compared to what the TDSB had before Ministry supervision.”

Erhardt said she will continue to ﬁght against Premier Doug Ford’s e orts to “gut the public education system in Toronto,” with his imposed supervisor positions across school boards.

“For now, I’m focused on ﬁghting the cuts to area schools and ending supervision. As it stands both the Toronto public and Catholic school boards still have supervision orders in place. Elected trustees can’t govern until these supervision orders are lifted,” said Erhardt.

“Doug Ford and his government need to end supervision before everyone goes to the polls this fall, and allow democratically elected school trustees to govern from day one.”

Aarts said she would not be running for trustee in the upcoming 2026 municipal election on Oct. 26, but that she was also “not willing” to leave the role open to governmental appointment.

“I had not planned to run for trustee. My goal was always to serve two terms and then help someone get elected who is dedicated to public education and good governance and believes in fully inclusive and equitable education,” said Aarts.

“However, I do not know yet who will be willing to run for trustee in 2026 and I am not willing to leave the role ‘at risk’ or unﬁlled. I can’t imagine a worse outcome than partisan political appointees governing education.”

The City of Toronto’s elections website has the TDSB set up under a 12-ward system for the Oct. 26 vote.

Locally, the former TDSB wards of Beaches-East York and Scarborough Southwest have now been joined into one electoral area called Ward 10.

The former TDSB ward of Toronto-Danforth has been joined with the former Toronto Centre and Spadina-Fort York wards to create an electoral area known as Ward 5.

East End Kids Pride Parade on Sunday

THE EAST End Kids Pride 2026 Parade and Celebration will take place this Sunday.

The annual event is slated for Dentonia Park, 80 Thyra Ave., on May 31.

The local celebration kicks o June’s Pride Month events in Toronto.

Events in the park will be taking place from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This year’s theme for East End Kids Pride is Fantastical Fairies and Fauna, and the events on May 31 will feature the parade, face painting, snacks, dancing, and more. All are welcome to celebrate with the

rainbow families, friends, and neighbours.

East End Kids Pride Parade Day was created when a seven-year-old asked her two moms if she could organize a Pride parade for her friends. Three hundred people showed up to that ﬁrst parade in 2023 and the celebration has been an East Toronto tradition ever since. East End Kids Pride is presented by Shadowland Theatre and East End Arts.

For more information on this Sunday’s East End Kids Pride, go to https://eastendarts.ca/queerartsmarket2026/

Making the transition from high school to university

DR. DIVI TARA Mental Health Matters

The transition from high school to university is often framed as exciting— and it is. But for many students, it also feels like being dropped into the deep end and expected to swim immediately.

What changes most isn’t just the environment—it’s how you manage your life. The shift shows up in three key areas: independence, academics, and relationships.

Students move from a world where schedules are set and reminders are built in, to one where no one is checking if you attend lectures, meet deadlines, or even get enough sleep. For parents, it often means stepping back for the ﬁrst time and trusting that those skills will take hold.

Freedom sounds appealing— until you have to manage it. University o ers space for growth and self-discovery, but it also demands discipline.

Many students quickly realize that ﬂexibility only works when it’s supported by structure. Without some form of routine, it’s easy to fall behind, feel disorganized, or become overwhelmed.

Academically, the expectations shift as well. High school often emphasizes memorization and frequent testing.

In university, students are expected to think more critically—connecting ideas, applying concepts, and managing their learning over longer periods of time.

When a large portion of a grade depends on just a few assignments or exams, last-minute cramming becomes far less e ective. Success depends on staying engaged with the material

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Letters to the Editor

throughout the term.

Socially, the experience can be both exciting and disorienting. High school friendships often form through proximity and routine. University, by contrast, requires more intention. Students are meeting entirely new groups of people, often in large and unfamiliar settings.

While this “clean slate” can be energizing, it can also feel surprisingly lonely at ﬁrst—even when surrounded by others.

It’s also common to see a temporary dip in mood, motivation, or conﬁdence during the ﬁrst few months. This doesn’t mean something is wrong—it’s often part of the adjustment.

Learning how to manage time, expectations, and new social dynamics all at once takes e ort, and most students need time to ﬁnd their footing.

Amid all of these changes, maintaining mental health is es-

sential. A few practical strategies can help students stay grounded:

• Keep a simple study rhythm: For every hour in class, aim for about 30 minutes of review. This prevents material from piling up and reduces stress during exam periods.

• Build structure into your social life: Join clubs, teams, or campus groups. These provide natural opportunities to meet people and create balance outside of academics.

• Normalize asking for help: Reaching out early—whether to campus services or a psychologist in the community—can make a signiﬁcant di erence.

For some students, the adjustment happens smoothly. For others, it can feel more di cult or take longer than expected.

Speaking with a psychologist can provide practical strategies and a supportive space to navigate this transition. Early support

often makes a meaningful di erence.

This transition isn’t just about earning a degree. It’s about learning how to manage independence, handle pressure, and build a life beyond familiar structures.

What initially feels overwhelming often becomes manageable— and eventually, empowering.

- Dr. Divi Tara, C.Psych., is aPsychologist at Toronto Beaches Psychology. At 160 Main St., Toronto Beaches Psychology o ers doctorallevel clinicians who support clients across the lifespan, from children and teens to adults and older adults. The clinic provides evidencebased care for concerns such as anxiety, stress, depression, neurological based illnesses/injuries and life transitions. While rooted in the Beach community, clinicians also o er virtual services to individuals beyond the neighbourhood. For more, go to www.torontobeachespsychology.ca

Behaviour of students on TTC bus shows lack of civility, consideration for others

I’m a Beach resident, retired college professor, and TTC user. I had heard anecdotes from others about the behaviour of Glen Ames students (well, mostly the boys) on the TTC, but recently I experienced it for the ﬁrst time when I got on the Main 64 bus at Queen Street East around 3:30 pm.

The bus was almost full of tweens and teens who had obviously boarded at the Wineva Road and Williamson Avenue stop so they could claim most of the seats. When other students boarded, none of them paid their fare. The bus became very crowded. Students refused to move back on the bus when requested to do so, or take o their large backpacks so others could get by them. They didn’t yield theirs seats to elderly people or those with a cane.

One student kept bumping me with his backpack as he

play-fought with a friend. I told him to stop it. When I got a seat, the student next to me also bumped me with his backpack. I calmly suggested, “You could take it o and hold it on your lap.”

He replied, “I could…” and I ﬁnished the sentence for him: “But you lack the manners to do so.” He nodded and turned away.

I realize the school can’t control the o -campus behaviour of students. Nor do I think it’s educators’ duty alone to convey some sense of civil behaviour and consideration of others in public. Surely parents should be working on that too.

But, at the very least, I’d say this rude, unruly, privileged, and deﬁant bunch is in need of some basic civics training.

Sincerely, your neighbourhood curmudgeon.

John Oughton

Expansion of Billy Bishop airport will have many negative impacts on city

The full impact of the Billy Bishop airport expansion is not getting enough attention.

Our downtown waterfront is going to be destroyed by the expansion on many levels – the incredible noise pollution, air pollution, safety, insane tra c congestion in an area where residents and tourists can currently enjoy the refreshment of nature in a city with few options.

A residential area is being completely disregarded in the decision-making process; in fact, our City of Toronto is not invited!

I’ve been a Beacher since 1982 and remember quieter times at Cherry Beach and Leslie Street Spit before Porter arrived, even propellor planes disrupted the feeling of countryside in

Food banks deal with increased demand, decline in donations

By Matthew Stephens

AS THE cost-of-living crisis continues to put pressure on residents across Toronto, local food banks and charitable organizations say they’re struggling to keep up with the rising demand.

“The food insecurity in our city has been worsening,” said Neil Hetherington, CEO of Daily Bread Food Bank in a recent interview with Beach Metro Community News

“Hunger has become a chronic crisis a ecting our neighbours, co-workers and classmates, many of whom are working, educated and still struggling to put food on the table.”

Daily Bread provides support to community centres and food banks across the city, including several in East Toronto. Last year, food bank visits hit a new record in Toronto, with a report from the North York Harvest Food Bank ﬁnding 4.1 million visits were made between March 2024 and April 2025, and one in 10 Torontonians rely on food banks for their next meal.

For Andrew Oliphant, food security worker at Eastview Neighbourhood Community Centre, donations are now being rationed out to ensure their longevity.

“We do our best to ration out our donations each week, but there are times that we are short on the essentials, like milk, eggs, and proteins,” said Oliphant.

Food banks like Eastview aren’t the only ones rationing their supply. According to Oliphant, the rising cost of groceries means the community centre has also experienced a sharp decline in donations.

“We have been seeing fewer food items being donated. The rising cost of food prices means we are getting busier and people

are less inclined to donate the essentials as they need it themselves,” he said.

With the North York Harvest report noting that 88 per cent of food bank visitors live in una ordable housing, Hetherington said food bank shortages reﬂect deeper systemic issues.

“It’s important to remember that food insecurity isn’t fundamentally about food; it’s largely driven by inadequate income and unaffordable housing,” he said.

“Ninety per cent of our clients live in una ordable housing or homelessness, and one in ﬁve spend their entire income on rent.”

According to a late 2024 report from the Government of Canada, nearly half (45 per cent) of Canadians reported that rising prices were “greatly a ecting their ability to meet day-to-day expenses.”

The report also noted that housing concerns impacted nearly four in 10 Canadians (38 per cent), an eight per cent increase from 2022.

The City of Toronto also plays an indirect role in supporting food bank organizations through grants, infrastructure, and broader anti-poverty programs.

An email from the city’s media relations team highlighted initiatives aimed at addressing food insecurity, including student nutrition programs, food bank hosting at local libraries, and Community Services Partnership grants, which provided more than $2 million in funding in 2025 to food security initiatives.

“The City of Toronto supports emergency food access programs like food banks through funding and collaboration with community partners on policies and programs,” said Sarah Austin, senior communications advisor for the city.

“This support includes

grants, as well as engaging and consulting with community partners to inform and improve program and policy changes to reduce food insecurity.”

Austin also referenced Toronto Public Health’s measures to monitor and prevent food insecurity, including their annual Nutritious Food Basket survey, collaborations with city divisions and organizations, and funding for the provision of low-cost produce and food skills training to “equity-deserving” communities.

However, Hetherington said the City of Toronto needs to increase a ordable housing supply and bolster its support for tenants, which could help to alleviate pressure on food banks.

“If we want to reduce line ups at food banks, the city should scale up a ordable housing, including expanding the city’s successful Multi Unit Residential Acquisition (MURA) program, to continue preserving affordable homes at scale,” said Hetherington. “It’s also critical to ensure that we have adequate tenant supports to prevent arbitrary evictions and homelessness.”

He said municipalities could also provide support by renting out city-owned spaces to food organizations at lower costs, which could allow them to host more charity-based events.

“One practical, cost-effective step is making underused city-owned spaces available to community food programs,” said Hetherington. “Right now, about one-third of programs in our network pay rent, and many are struggling to expand to meet rising demand.”

Austin acknowledged the “root causes” of food insecurity. “Torontonians need long-term solutions focused on the root causes of food insecurity and a ordability

Premier needs to hear airport protest

‘Expansion’ from Page 6

The

argument is debatable apparently but the convenience for some people is outweighed by the negative impacts on the majority of people and our environment.

– as well as action from all orders of government – to ensure people can access the nutritious food they need when they need it,” she said.

Daily Bread continues to advocate for improved supports. “We engage with elected o cials at all levels of government to share what we’re seeing on the ground and advance policy solutions that address the root causes of poverty and food insecurity—such as access to a ordable housing and adequate income supports,” said Hetherington.

Our premier responds better when the volume is turned up and at the moment there is little audible protest.

Hilary Bowring

I hope many of you will speak out and sign a petition at www.nojetsto.com.

GRAND OPENING

Community Calendar

MAY 29-31: Beach Guild of Fine Art ‘Art in The Beach’ Spring Show & Sale at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., Fri 5-8 p.m., Sat & Sun 10 a.m.-5 p.m. See original artwork in a variety of mediums, sizes and subjects. Something for everyone! Info: beachguildo neart.com

MAY 30: Plant Sale at Grant AME Church yard, 2029 Gerrard St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Herbs, vegetables and perennials will be available. Come early for best selection.

MAY 30: Calling all Vendors and Artisans! Spring Outdoor Sale at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, 904 Coxwell Ave. (at Cosburn), 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (rain date June 6). Table Rental $60. Call the o ce at 416-421-6878 extension 21 to reserve your table. This is a long-running and wellattended sale. We look forward to welcoming you!

MAY 30: Spring Market/Yard Sale at St. Paul’s United Church, 200 McIntosh St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Yard sale items, art, bake sale, BBQ. Table rental $35. Info: stpaulsscarborough.org

THURSDAYS: CONTEMPLATIVE AND MINDFULNESS MEDITATION at the Church of St. Aidan, 2423 Queen St. E., 7:30-8:15 p.m. All ages and stages of experience welcome! Free. Type of meditation will vary based on the instructor. Just drop in or email o ce@ staidansinthebeach.com for more information.

MAY 30: Centre 55 Spring Fling Festival at Bob Acton Park, 12 noon-4 p.m. Food vendors, CC55 BBQ, artisan marketplace, games, contests, inﬂatables, and more! Info: www.centre55.com

MAY 30: East York Garden Club Plant Sale at 72 Binswood Ave., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Perennials, native plants, houseplants and more priced to go at $5 each along with a selection of larger or special plants at additional prices. Cash preferred. All proceeds to support activities of the East York Garden Club. Memberships may be purchased at the plant sale.

MAY 31: Blessing of the Bikes at St. Aidan’s Anglican Church, 2423 Queen St. E., after the 10:30 a.m. service. Join us by bringing all and any of these modes – bicycles, motorcycles, scooters and other 2 wheeled modes of transportation – to the church driveway for the blessing. We’re wishing everyone a safe and blessed summer on 2 wheels.

MAY 31: East End Kids Pride Day at Dentonia Park, 80 Thyra Ave., 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Parade Day will feature a community pride parade, performances, face-painting, dancing, snacks, art stations, a Queer Arts market, and so much more! Info: eastendarts.ca/kidspride2026/

THURSDAYS: CALVARY GRACE FOOD BANK, 72 Main St., 6-8:30 p.m, by appointment only, through Daily Bread Food Bank. Info: 416-691-2899, gpcc@calvary-baptistchurch.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 ST. JOHN THE COMPASSIONATE MISSION “Friendly Visitors Program” is welcoming new volunteers. FVP visit people who are shut in, referred either by agencies or individuals living in the east of Toronto. Many of the folks we are visiting have been previously homeless or in diculty life situations. This requires from our friendly visitors a deeply compassionate, nonjudgmental approach. Interested persons can email at: info@stjohnsmission.org / attention Starotza Miroslava. A prompt reply is promised.

BEACHES MENTAL WELLNESS GROUP meets each Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Community Centre 55, 97 Main St. at Swanwick, and each Monday at 7:15 p.m. at East End United Church, 310 Danforth Ave. 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 PHOTO CLUB. Are you interested in photography? We invite all shutterbugs to check out our local photo club. We o er 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

MAY 31: 8 TO THE BAR Vocal Jazz, Pop & Gospel Concert at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., 4:30-5:30 p.m. Hear popular jazz standards and more performed by local jazz choir 8 TO THE BAR, featuring guest bassist George Koller, Dr. Steven Webb on keys, and Sheila Brand directing. Part of the Jazz & Reflection series. PWYC $20 suggested. Info: beachunitedchurch. com/2026/04/we-swing-into-summer-with-8-to-the-bar/ JUNE 2: Strategic Semi-Retirement Seminar at BMO Bank of Montreal, 2183 Queen St. E. An educational conversation on planning your next chapter, focusing on the transition from full-time to semi-retirement, with Dr. Lisa Romano-Dwyer (Lakeside Wellness Therapy) and James Cockfield (BMO). RSVP: james.cockfield@ bmo.com, lakesidewellnesstherapy@gmail.com

JUNE 6: Slobberfest at the Leuty Pavilion on the Boardwalk (foot of Lee Ave.), 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Canine contests, pet-friendly marketplace, music, prizes, ra es, Beagle Wiggle Walk, and more! Info: www.centre55.com

JUNE 12: A Senior Moment co ee and dessert at Judy’s Beach Café, 2188 Queen St. E., 1:30 p.m. R.S.V.P. Colleen at 647-829-8042

JUNE 12: Mark Battenberg Music presents The River of Life at Danforth Mennonite Church, 2174 Danforth Ave., 7:30 p.m. This special presentation of the eclectic chamber music of Beaches composer and guitarist Mark Battenberg will be a celebration of intricate melodies and rich harmonies, featuring Cellist Sybil Shanahan, violinist Alex Cheung and Shakuhachi ﬂute Master Debbie Danbrook. Admission is $20 or pay what you can.

JUNE 13: Car Wash Fundraiser at Calvary Baptist Church, 72 Main St., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Hosted by Grant AME Church Young People’s Division (YPD). $25-$30 for wash & shine. Proceeds will go to a trip to Christian Education Congress in Chicago.

JUNE 13: The Impossible Swim – Documentary Screening Fundraiser at Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., 4:30-6:30 p.m. Screening of the documentary “The Impossible Swim” (2018) about 16-year old Maya Farrell’s quest to swim across the widest part of Lake Ontario, followed by a panel with one of the ﬁlm’s directors Larry Weinstein and marathon swimmers Maya Farrell and Lev Goldberg. This event will be a fundraiser for Lev’s 55km Lake Huron swim this August in support of LGBT Youthline. Tickets $20 on Eventbrite or $25 at door. Tickets/info: levswimslakes.ca

JUNE 18: Annual General Meeting of the members of Community Centre 55 at CC 55, 97 Main St., 7 p.m., for the purpose of considering and taking action with respect to the following: to approve the financial statements of Community Centre 55 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025; to receive our Program report; and to fill vacancies on the Board of Management. For additional information, please contact Reza Khoshdel, Executive Director, Community Centre 55 at 416-691-1113 ext. 225 or email reza@centre55.com or visit www.centre55.com

JUNE 20: Milverton Art Walk on Milverton Blvd., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Milverton Art Walk is an annual, local outdoor art event featuring East Toronto artists and makers. Discover high-quality artwork and handcrafted goods at accessible prices while supporting local creativity and community. Info: www.facebook.com/EastTorontoHandmade

JUNE 20: ‘Hits Through the Years’ Fundraiser at St. Luke East York Anglican Church, 904 Coxwell Ave., 3-5 p.m. Live music by singer/saxophonist Kristen Prince. R&B, oldies, Beatles tunes and much more. Refreshments available for purchase. Entrance – Adults $20, Children under 12 free. Call 416-421-6878, ext 21 for tickets. Tickets also available at the door. We have parking and we are accessible.

JUNE 25: AGM of Ward 9 Community News Inc., publisher of Beach Metro Community News, 7 p.m. Details are on page 25 of this edition. This is a members-only meeting.

Cuto date for purchase of $5.00 memberships is June 18 at 5 p.m., at the Beach Metro News o ce, 2196 Gerrard St. E. Deadline for nominations for the board is June 5 at 5 p.m.

EARLYON FAMILY RESOURCE CONNECTION, 184 Main St. Play Learn Explore: Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Friday & Saturday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. All children from birth to six years are welcome. Info: 416-6900102, Jennifer.hooker@familyresourcecentre-dcc.net

EAST YORK FARMERS’ MARKET at East York Civic Centre, 850 Coxwell Ave., Tuesdays 8 a.m.-2 p.m. LESLIEVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET at Greenwood Park, 150 Greenwood Ave., Sundays 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: leslievillemarket.com

EAST LYNN FARMERS’ MARKET at East Lynn Park, 1949 Danforth Ave., Thursdays 3-7 p.m., starting June 4. Info: www.eastlynnparkfarmersmarket.ca

COURTYARD FARMERS’ MARKET at Robertson Parkette, 1549 Danforth Ave., Wednesdays 3:30-7:30 p.m., starting June 3. Info: courtyardfarmersmkt.ca

DANFORTH/COXWELL LIBRARY, 1675 Danforth Ave. •June 3: Home Is Where the Identity Is: Self Expression within Historic Interiors, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Under the guidance of a historian, explore the grand social spaces and intimate private rooms of Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House, the summer cottage of one of America’s ﬁrst professional interior designers, Henry Davis Sleeper. Info: 416-393-7783

BEACH UNITED CHURCH, 140 Wineva Ave., invites you to share in worship with us each week. We o er a combination of in-person and YouTube livestream opportunities on Sunday mornings at 10:30 am. We are an inclusive, a rming congregation and our building is fully accessible. Rev. Dr. Ellen Redcli e o ers inspirational and thought-provoking reﬂections, supported by Music Director Dr. Steven Webb and the church choir, which welcomes new members at all times. Nathalie Zeta, our youth coordinator, o ers engaging programming for our younger members and guests during the Sunday service. All are welcome! Info and links: beachunitedchurch.com FORWARD BAPTIST CHURCH, 1891 Gerrard Street E. Sunday •Worship @10:15 a.m. •Above the Beach: Tuesdays @ 9:30-11:30 a.m. Drop-in for kids age 0-4 and their caregivers. •Youth Group: Wednesdays @ 7 p.m. Grades 6-12. Info: forwardbaptist.com, info@forwardbaptist.com

ST. SAVIOUR’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, 43 Kimberley Ave. at Swanwick. All are welcome. Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. - both in person and via Zoom. Info: 416-699-6512, www.stsaviours.ca, www.facebook.com/ churchwithreddoor/. Sermons available on Proclamation! Podcast (now available for free on iTunes).

THE CHURCH OF ST. AIDAN (Anglican), 2423 Queen St. E., is an energetic, active faith community committed to following Jesus as we gather for meaningful worship, spiritual growth, and community engagement. We live this out through our vibrant children’s and youth programs, diverse sacred music o erings, 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). Wednesdays please join us for the Eucharist Service at 10:30 a.m. Weekly euchre on Tuesdays from 7-9 p.m. (enter through the glass doors, $5 to play, all proceeds go to outreach). 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.

Noise and behaviour complaints after Victoria Day weekend events

By Matthew Stephens

FROM ELECTRIC Island to the Victoria Day ﬁreworks display, this year’s May long weekend brought several large-scale gatherings to the Woodbine Park and Woodbine Beach areas, drawing thousands of visitors and prompting mixed reactions from local residents over noise, crowds and behaviour.

“I feel like I have a good memory of how bad the crowd or the turnout was each year, esp(ecially) as it relates to getting back to Woodbine station using the 92 (bus). It felt like this year the tra c and crowd were exceptionally bad,” wrote one resident in an email to Beach Metro Community News following the Victoria Day ﬁreworks at Ashbridges Bay on Monday, May 18.

Through social media and emails, residents reported cases of beachgoers littering, improperly discarding hot charcoal from barbecues, ﬁreworks being shot into crowds, and vandalism of property.

In another post, a resident said visitors’ actions over the weekend were “disrespectful to the people who live here, the environment, and the city workers who will end up being the ones to clean up their mess.”

Others argued that Toronto police failed to e ectively contain the illegal use of ﬁreworks, while some suggested that future City of Toronto ﬁreworks displays be moved to another location.

Prior to the long weekend, Supt. David Correa of 55 Division said additional police o cers and specialized units would be deployed throughout the weekend to address concerns and safety issues.

In an email to Beach Metro Community News after the long weekend, Toronto Police Service (TPS) media relations said po-

lice presence was increased in the area over the weekend, and that ﬁve arrests were made on Victoria Day, two related to ﬁreworks.

“This year, there was an increased police presence along Ashbridges Bay and Woodbine Beach, including our Mounted Unit, as well as o cers patrolling on foot, ATVs, and bicycles,” said Nadine Ramadan, Senior Communications Advisor for TPS.

“When illegal behaviour occurred, o cers responded promptly and made arrests. In total, ﬁve arrests were made on Monday at Ashbridges Bay, two of which were related to ﬁreworks.”

The Electric Island Festival’s opening night on Saturday, May 16, at Woodbine Park was also met with frustration from community members, who took to social media to voice noise complaints.

“The area surrounding Woodbine Park is being subjected to HOURS of violent vibrating thumps that NEVER cease,” said one resident in an email to Beach Metro Community News. “Woodbine Park is a lovely park, NOT a concert venue.”

Electric Island took place on May 16, and May 17. In a post on Facebook after its opening night, Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford addressed concerns, announcing that he would be requesting the event organizers to lower the sound.

“The sound impacts from the Electric Island event yesterday at Woodbine Park were unacceptable, even from kilometres away,” he said. “I’ve spoken with event organizers and they’ve agreed to reduce the volume today, and I’ll be speaking with the bylaw on-site supervisor to make it clear that noise levels must be managed carefully and fully comply with their permit.”

In support of Centre 55

SLOBBER

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Dianne Chaput*† Brian Chaput* Pauline Wong* Colette Chaput-Villamizar*

Spring in Kew Gardens

By David Van Dyke

By far my favourite house in the Beach. I love the Queen Anne Revival architectural style with its turrets and extended verandas. The Kew Williams House (AKA the Honeymoon House, the Gardener’s Cottage) was built for Williams’ wife, Bertha Curran, as a gift in 1902.

In six short years, the park (and house) were sold to the city. For decades the house had been the residence for Kew Gardens groundskeeper. This image above was taken on a spring day some time in the mid 1970s by an unknown photographer. Today, the house is closed to the public, but on occasion it will host local art exhibitions and craft sales.

Do you have an old photo of this house you’d like to share? Please contact me at gdvandyke61@gmail.com

Volunteers sought to become Nature Stewards in local parks

THE TORONTO Nature Stewards are inviting residents interested in protecting native biodiversity in local parks and ravines to join them this spring and summer.

The organization is now in its sixth season of volunteer stewarding in 55 Toronto parks and ravines. The goal is to educate and support ecological restoration in the community by removing invasive plant species and planting native species that support native biodiversity.

The six Toronto Nature Stewards sites being looked after in East Toronto are Ashbridges Bay Park, Glen Stewart Park, Taylor Creek Park, Cherry Beach, Tommy Thompson Park and Northline (lower Charles Sauriol Park).

Since 2021, when the program began with 150 stewards at nine parks, it has grown to more than 2,100 stewards supporting 55 parks. In agreement with the City of Toronto, TNS works out of select natural areas

to protect native biodiversity in their designated area. In the past ﬁve years, stewards have removed more than 10,000 large bags of invasive plants such as garlic mustard and dog strangling vine, and planted more than 8,300 native plants.

Stewards also tend the new plants and pick up litter, meeting weekly to maintain progress in the green spaces they look after.

The stewarding season began in April at some parks, while continuing through to December in others. Stewards must be registered, as they will be trained to recognize invasive species and on best practices in the ﬁeld.

Volunteer hours are available, and volunteers must be over 16 years of age to volunteer without a parent or guardian.

For more information on how to register and volunteer as a Toronto Nature Steward, please go to https://torontonaturestewards. org/get-involved/

PHOTO: DAVID VAN DYKE

NEIL MCNEIL Catholic High School continued its dominance at the Toronto District Catholic (Colleges) Athletic Association (TDCAA) track and ﬁeld championships earlier this month.

Neil McNeil won the Overall Boys Title at the meet for the sixth year in a row, and also swept all three age division championships for the ﬁfth consecutive year.

The meet took place at Rob Ford Stadium in Etobi-

coke’s Centennial Park on May 13 and 14.

The Neil McNeil team accumulated 33 medals in total at the meet with the Novice boys winning 17, the Senior boys winning nine, and the Junior boys winning seven.

With the team’s success at the TDCAA meet, Neil McNeil qualiﬁed 44 athletes for the Metro Track and Field Championships that will take place from May 26 to 28 at Birchmount Stadium in Scarborough.

Also putting in a strong performance at the TDCAA

meet on May 14 was the track and ﬁeld team from Notre Dame Catholic High School.

The team finished second overall, with the novice team taking home first place honours along with a new banner to be displayed at the school. The all-girls high school ended the meet with an impressive collection of medals, showing o the weeks of training and preparation put in by the Notre Dame track and field team members.

Grace Thomson won three gold medals; Ella Sun

won two gold medals, Chloe Zarzoso won a gold and a bronze; Addy Salmon won two silvers and a bronze; Jules McCague won two silver medals; Emma Minxolli and Kaydona Taitt each won a silver medal; and Ruby Broughton and Angie Liontas each won a bronze medal.

Health and Physical Education teacher and coach Kyle Toth said the team members are excited to be in the Metro Track and Field Championships at Birchmount Stadium today through to Thursday.

meet

Neil

the ﬁfth year in a row.

PHOTOS: SUBMITTED

Photo above, the Notre Dame Catholic High School Novice Girls team won the championship at the Toronto District Catholic (Colleges) Athletic Association track and ﬁeld meet held recently in Etobicoke. Photo below, members of the Neil McNeil Catholic High School track and ﬁeld team celebrate their sixth straight Overall Boys Title at the Toronto District Catholic (Colleges) Athletic Association

recently.

McNeil also swept all of the age division titles at the meet for

Ted Reeve Tornados U16 team reﬂects on season full of memorable moments

By Lori Ann Comeau

THE 2025–2026 season for the defending champion U16 Ted Reeve Tornados hockey team was a journey shaped by early success, sustained competitiveness, and the continued development of a group of players learning to perform under pressure.

The Tornados set a strong tone from the outset of the season, capturing gold at the Victoria Village Season Opening Tournament.

Facing local rivals, the team demonstrated early chemistry, disciplined defensive play, and a commitment to a fast, team-ﬁrst style of hockey.

That momentum carried into a demanding regular season. Finishing with a 9-5-2 record, the Tornados relied on balanced scoring and cohesive team play.

Their ability to manage tight games and convert key moments into points secured them a strong position heading into the postseason. As the level of competition intensiﬁed, so did the team’s execution.

The postseason brought

a series of high-pressure matchups deﬁned by tight checking and disciplined play.

Over the course of a 7-62 run, the Tornados showed endurance, focus, and a growing conﬁdence in one another.

It was during these games that the team’s identity became most evident — built on trust, skill, and a shared commitment to competing at a high level.

Key performances in the the round-robin stage set up a ﬁnal matchup at Downsview Arena against Victoria Village, bringing the season full circle.

In a closely contested ﬁnal series, the Tornados competed with determination and pride, reﬂecting the progress they had made throughout the year.

Head Coach Blair Bailey spoke to that growth: “It’s been a memorable season. They committed to playing as a strong, cohesive unit, focusing on speed, playmaking and having fun. I’m proud of their e orts and would like to thank the coaching sta Ryan Poissant, Je Thorpe and Allen

Chan, along with the parents and the Tornados organization for all their support.”

For players and families, the season represents more than results.

It reﬂects the work behind the scenes — practices, preparation, and the dedication required to improve both individually and as a team.

Moments of challenge, particularly in closely contested games, contributed to the team’s development, strengthening their resilience, focus, and sense of unity.

Seasons like this extend far beyond the rink, shaping character, building lasting bonds, and creating moments that will be looked back on with warmth and pride for years to come.

- Lori Ann Comeau is a local parent and community advocate who has spent years supporting youth sports and development in Toronto. As a dedicated hockey parent, she values the role community athletics play in building conﬁdence, resilience, and connection both on and o the ice.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Though the Ted Reeve Tornados U16 team did not win this year’s North York Hockey League championship, they did make it to the ﬁnal series in what was a season full of memorable moments for the players, coaches and parents.

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

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Kriens

LaRose, LLP

Chartered Professional Accountants

• Accounting services for owner-managed businesses

• Audit services for not-for-proﬁt organizations kriens@krienslarose.com krienslarose.com 416-690-6800

CHRISTINE KATO, B.Sc., D.V.M. KATO ANIMAL HOSPITAL 2830 Danforth Ave. (East of Dawes Rd.) 416-690-2112 Dogs, cats, pocket pets. Housecalls available.

HOUGHTON VETERINARY HOUSECALL SERVICES Vaccines, examinations, diagnostics, palliative care, and home euthanasia provided for your pets in the comfort of your own home. Dr. Barbara Houghton 647-221-5516

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

the Beach since 1987”

Snider & DiGregorio

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

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

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

Beaches Family Law and MEDIATION

Linda Bronicheski, J.D. 47 Main Street (at Lyall) 416-763-6884 Linda@BeachesFamilyLaw.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

Design, Residential, Restorations, Home Inspections, Commercial, Interiors, Landscapes COMPLETE PROJECT SERVICES FROM DESIGN THROUGH CONSTRUCTION (416) 694-8181 • sgkarch@gmail.com www.stephenkingarchitect.com Member Ontario Association of Architects FUNERAL

Jon Cummings Architecture Residential new build,

Glover & Associates

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

SERVICES

Cremation & Burial Services Inc. Life Celebrations. Done Diﬀerently. In Service with St. John’s Norway Cemetery & Crematorium. 647.660.5056 www.ecofuneral.ca

Eight candidates now registered for Beaches-East York councillor race

THE RACE for councillor in Beaches-East York now has eight candidates registered to run for the seat in this fall’s Toronto municipal election.

As of Sunday, May 24, the eight candidates registered to run for the position are: James Dann, Natalie Johnson, Tycen Legg, Kevin Morrison, Adam Smith, Austin Vieira, Je Wahl, and Jennie Worden.

The race to be the Ward 19 Beaches-East York representative on Toronto Council is expected to have a large number of candidates since the seat will not be sought by the incumbent as current councillor Brad Bradford has registered to run for mayor in this year’s municipal election.

Registrations to run for elected positions in Toronto, including mayor, city councillor and school board trustee, opened on the morning of Friday, May 1.

Beach Metro Community News also covers Ward 14 Toronto-Danforth and Ward 20 Scarborough Southwest.

As of May 24, Scarborough Southwest has three candidates registered to run for the councillor position. They are Malik Ahmed, Rachel-Ariel Karokis, and Philip Mills. Parthi Kandavel serves the ward as the current councillor.

As of May 24, there were no candidates registered to run for city councillor in Toronto-Danforth, where Councillor Paula Fletcher currently serves.

Candidates have until Aug. 21 at 2 p.m. to register their papers to run for the positions of mayor, city councillor, or school trustee. This year’s municipal elections will take place on Monday, Oct. 26.

Please note that residents who wish to complete the candidate nomination process must do so in person at the Toronto Elections City Hall o ce at 100 Queen St. W. between Monday and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Filings will be accepted from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the last day of the nominations period (Aug. 21).

Beach Metro Community News will periodically update information on candidates registering to run in the wards of BeachesEast York, Scarborough Southwest and Toronto-Danforth.

We will also let readers know about campaign launches as we receive information about them.

For more information on candidates registered to run in this year’s municipal election in Toronto, go to www.toronto.ca/citygovernment/elections/candidate-list/

Garage Sale for Shelter planned for June 6

THE ANNUAL Royal LePage Shelter Foundation’s Garage Sale for Shelter is set for Saturday, June 6.

The sale helps raise funds for women and children escaping family violence in the community.

Locally, real estate agents with Royal LePage Estate Realty will be among those supporting community garage sales on June 6

to help raise funds. Local streets with sales will include Linsmore Crescent, Woodington Avenue, Lyall Avenue, Hannaford Street, Lawlor Avenue and Bingham Avenue to name a few.

Sales will take place between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. on June 6. To make a donation of items for sale, or to support the cause, please call 416-690-5100.

Leaving a legacy that advances local healthcare

To support the community they love, Frank Tulipano and Joanne Neglia donate to Michael Garron Hospital.

“East Toronto is our home, our community,” says Frank. “It’s logical to focus on our local hospital.”

As part of their generous commitment, Frank and Joanne have planned gifts in their wills. Their legacies will continue advancing high-quality healthcare beyond their lifetimes.

To read Frank and Joanne's full story, scan the QR code.

To learn more about making a gift in your will, contact:

Laura Byl, Legacy Giving Manager

laura.byl@tehn.ca

416-469-6580 ext. 2322

Beaches Brewing Company reopens with new vision

By Julia Sawicki

Beaches Brewing Company is reopening with a new vision for Queen Street East: elevated dining, craft beer and community connection.

The beloved brew pub is returning with owner and master brewer Carl Pratt alongside a new sign and three new faces: Krishna Gaudel, Stephane Lacoste and Rajesh Pandey.

The new leadership group came together as what they call, “the perfect storm,” a mix of opportunity and long-standing plans coming to fruition.

After Beaches Brewing Company closed last year, Pratt approached Gaudel and Lacoste about collaborating to reopen the location, bringing together their individual strengths to refresh the brand and create an experience that sets it apart from other microbreweries.

It was a team e ort. Pratt was able to focus on what he loved most, brewing delicious, refreshing and specialized beer, while Gaudel and Lacoste worked on the business, decor and food side of things, making sure that every aspect received the same level of attention and detail.

Moving away from traditional bar dining, the kitchen will now incorporate French and Southeast Asian inﬂuences. Chef Rajesh Pandey is one of the creative minds behind the new menu, bringing global experience from a variety of restaurants in Toronto, Nepal, Mumbai and Dubai to Queen Street East in the Beach.

Lacoste will handle the French European inﬂuence, as both a chef and chief operating o cer, with years of experience in the restaurant industry, a background in design, and a passion for beer, as a self proclaimed “Beergonaut.”

Gaudel, now the chief executive o cer of Beaches Brewing Company, is also no stranger to the industry, having worked in and

managed a number of ﬁve-star hotels in Toronto, as well as The Kingston House restaurant in the neighbourhood. He is conﬁdent that the advancements made will turn Beaches Brewing Company into a lasting staple on Queen Street East.

As customers enter the redesigned space, it’s clear careful attention was paid to every stylistic choice, moving away from the traditional brewery aesthetic, which Lacoste and Gaudel both admit has become passé in recent years.

“Every brewery doesn’t have to be crafty. Luxury can come along with the brewery,” said Gaudel.

“You can have a comfortable seat and elegant service. If you feel like having a glass of wine, we will have that. We will have elevated cocktails while at the same time o ering freshly brewed beer. So you have the best of both worlds.”

The goal, according to the team, is to create a space that welcomes customers like they’re “your

mom’s best friend,” while also offering somewhere to watch the big game. It’s meant to combine the casual atmosphere of a neighbourhood pub with the feel of an upscale lounge.

However, Gaudel emphasized that luxury won’t come with an overwhelming price tag. “You don’t have to spend $300 or $400 a night to go out and have a decent time for a few hours. Here, we’re going to deliver that. We’re conﬁdent that with good beer, that’s good quality, and is locally sourced and brewed, people will appreciate it,” he said.

One of the notable additions will be the new Namaste Beer, expertly crafted to complement the new cuisine style.

Incorporating turmeric and electrolytes, the beer is expected to become a standout item on the menu. The team is also working to launch it at the LCBO and at local Indian restaurants, aiming to make it a staple for beer connois-

seurs and health-conscious drinkers alike.

Alongside the launch of the Namaste Beer, Pratt is now able to focus on his role as Master Brewer working behind the scenes to perfect every pint, from lagers to IPAs.

“Carl now has the time and peace of mind to go back to the recipes that worked well, and tweak them,” explained Lacoste. “Beers that were once good, are now going to be great.”

After Pratt announced the closing of Beaches Brewing Company late last year, he cited rising area costs, restaurant and pub industry oversaturation and missing the boom of craft beer that now had to compete with macrobreweries. Lacoste and Gaudel, though, are conﬁdent that quality and consistency will be keys to success.

“It’s a very small business. During this economic time, not only the microbreweries, but restaurants and retail stores are closing

one after the other. But we think if we deliver the quality and consistency, the neighbourhood will see it,” said Gaudel.

The team also wants Beaches Brewing Company to remain deeply connected to the community. They say the brewery will support charitable initiatives and continue building relationships with local residents and businesses that helped support them over the years.

The reaction from the beach so far has been encouraging.

Gaudel said people frequently stop by to share how much they missed Pratt’s beer. He’s also seen this at The Kingston House which is located just east of Main Street on Kingston Road.

“When we’re working outside, people stop by to say hello, and they share their bitterness that Carl had to close down,” said Gaudel.

“We used to sell Carl’s beer at The Kingston House, and we used to sell a lot. And when he stopped brewing, people were still keen on his porter...A lot of people shared their concern and sorrow that he was just folding up the business. Now that people are noticing we’re opening again, so many people are excited.”

With warmer weather approaching, Beaches Brewing Company is also preparing to reopen and revitalize its patio along Queen Street East.

According to Lacoste, the neighbourhood can expect something unique, though he said the team is keeping details under wraps for now.

The Beaches Brewing Company grand opening is set for Friday, May 29, at 1953 Queen St. E.

The leadership group said it is eager to hear feedback from the community and hopes residents will once again embrace both the brewery and the restaurant.

“We’re really hoping people come in and try us again for the ﬁrst time,” said Lacoste.

PHOTO: JULIA SAWICKI

Stephane Lacoste, Krishna Gaudel and Rajesh Pandey in front of the Beaches Brewing Company on Queen Street East.

Inclusion at the heart of Remix Artistic Swimming Club

By Jessica Shackleton

Remix Artistic Swimming Club is a Scarborough-based club that aims to keep artistic swimming open and fun for all.

The club serves everyone at every level and age, and is co-ed and for all abilities.

Programs range from recreational, regional league, competitive, high- performance, adaptive, and mixed ability.

Jen Koptie is one of the lead coaches, and she emphasized that Remix has a space for everyone.

“We pride ourselves on being responsive to what families and athletes are looking for,” she said.

“We want to make sure it’s open to everyone. We make sure that our facilities are accessible, but also that any athlete who is neurodivergent and wants to be

a part of the space, they’re always welcome. We run programs that are the best match for everyone.”

The club has been operating since 2021. Koptie said she wants everyone to know that the sport of artistic swimming is alive and well in Scarborough. As well as encouraging people to try out artistic swimming, Remix aims to keep athletes in the pool.

“When an athlete is in high school, especially with girls, we see this exit from sport, and so we do a lot of athlete surveys and listening campaigns to hear what kind of programming we can provide for them to make them want to stay in sport,” said Koptie.

According to a 2024 report by Canadian Women & Sport, one in ﬁve girls leaves sports during adolescence.

“As they get older, sometimes they’re looking to pull

back on hours. Historically, high-performance artistic swimming was you’re in for 22 to 25 hours, or you’re not in. We just adjusted our program as some people want that, and some people don’t, but we want everybody to stay in sport,” she said.

“You can still be competitive and have a great time and do less hours. Do we want to keep these female athletes in sport? We do.”

Swimming supports joint and cardiovascular health, and many Remix recreational programs include learn-to-swim instruction. Artistic swimming also suits athletes transitioning from sports like gymnastics and dance.The club operates out of Variety Village, SATEC (W. A. Porter Collegiate), Victoria Park Collegiate, and the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre. To learn more the club, visit www.remixartswim.ca/page/home

Pizza Nova shows support for Variety Village

PIZZA NOVA’S annual

That’s Amore Pizza for Kids fundraiser delivered again this year, raising $151,935 for Variety Village during the one-day event.

As the fundraiser entered its 27th year, the initiative invited Pizza Nova customers to purchase medium cheese or pepperoni pizzas for $5.99, tax included, with $1 from every pizza sold donated to Variety Ontario, supporting children and youth with disabilities.

Since the partnership began in 1999, Pizza Nova has contributed more than $3 million to the organization.

The proceeds from the campaign will go towards Variety programs, providing families in need with access to sports, arts, education, camps and essential mobility equipment. It will also help support the facility itself, which acts as a fully accessible centre for ﬁtness, sports and life skills.

“Partnerships like this

help ensure that Variety can give children with disabilities access to the programs, experiences and support systems they need to build conﬁdence, independence and community,” said Charlie Johnstone, president and CEO of Variety Ontario during a press event on May 19.

For more information on Variety Ontario programs or opportunities to get involved, visit www.varietyvillage.ca

Picture book for adults with dementia released by author

By Julia Sawicki

HELEN METELLA never imagined that picture books would become one of the few ways she could still connect with her mother.

Three years after the former East Toronto resident’s mother was diagnosed with dementia, everyday forms of reading — newspapers, novels and long stories — slowly became too di cult to follow. So Metella turned to picture books.

The picture books worked. Metella’s mother absorbed the illustrations, drawn to the imagery and details that helped her focus, while Metella loved seeing her mother smile and connect.

But reading children’s books to her mother, even the classics, began to feel uncomfortable for Metella. The stories were simple, but also childish, ﬁlled with lessons about getting along with your baby brother, learning conﬁdence as a little girl, or what happens when you give a mouse a cookie. The books were written for children, not for adults who had lived full and complex lives, even if they couldn’t always remember them.

“I though to myself, ‘I can do better than this. I’m a writer,”’ said Matella.

This realization became the foundation of Marika and the Auction, a picture book written for adults with dementia. Illustrated by Hannah Kate Miller, the story centres around a woman dealing with her chaotic and rambunctious children at an auction.

For more than a year, Metella worked to create a story that captured the intelligence, identity and experiences of her readers. It incorporates captivating, colourful visuals without taking away from its substance.

“I’m not talking down to her. I’m not pretending that she’s a child. It’s actually about a capable adult,” said Metella.

Metella describes her mother as one of millions of women transformed by the social changes of the late 1960s and early ’70s: a feminist who balanced motherhood, career, family life and her own identity during an era where women’s roles were evolving in new and exciting ways. She drew on the vibrant energy of her mother as she remembers her, along with her own experiences, creating a story ﬁlled with details and emotional familiarity.

Marika and the Auction is set in the 1970s and pulls from memories of family life and visually signiﬁcant period furniture, attitudes and fashion. This decade was strategically chosen for the book, said Metella.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the primary age demographic of those living with dementia is 65 and older, placing many in their late teens to early 30s during the 1970s. Adults with dementia most vividly recall memories from young adulthood, typically between 15 to 30, making this era extremely relevant for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

legs sticking out from under a car as

kers around while Marika heads

auction.

“It’s a nice memory, even if it’s a subtle one,” said Metella.

The book also rejects what many experts refer to as “elderspeak,” a simpliﬁed, highpitched style of talking often used with elderly people, or those with di culty understanding. Elderspeak can feel demeaning and infantilizing. According to the National Institutes of Health, it can contribute to depression, resistance to care, and a loss of autonomy.

“Suddenly we’re talking to them in loud voices and going ‘Oh dearie how are you?’ That’s not the way I ever want to talk to my mom,” said Metella.

One of Metella’s main intentions with Marika and the Auction was to ease communication between people with dementia and their family members or friends.

“I chose to talk to her like an adult, the way I’ve always done. I bring her anecdotes, tell her stories. But what happens when you see someone twice a week or just once a week? You run out of anecdotes to tell them. Whereas this book, you can go in and it’s ready made. It’s got the story that you can read, and then you can point at some details and go on to a side story.”

Metella emphasized that the book is suitable for all ages, although it is written at an adult audience.

For Metella, those details are crucial. They allow memories to resurface naturally and provide some familiarity.

“I point to the furniture that we’ve created that looks like it’s dowdy or from the late ’60s, and I say ‘Oh mom, I remember when we had this icky old couch or this funny looking clock.’ And she doesn’t have to say anything,” said Metella. “I can say I remember, and I can spin a story, and she can listen to it, she can chime in if she’s capable on that day.”

The book helps open the door for recollection. Metella said her younger brother has a pivotal role in the book, and references the moment of frustration when two children act up and are sent to opposite sides.

She also includes the image of a father’s

“It’s appropriate for an adult, but also for a grandchild. The books are not written at a level that is too advanced. If you want your child to have a relationship with their grandparent or great aunt or uncle who has dementia, it’s really hard to start a conversation,” she said. “You can have a young child read the book to them. That’s a beautiful way for them to visit and not feel depressed or bored. I think that when a person is in their 80s and has grandchildren or great grandchildren, they still want to connect with them, even if they don’t know what to say to them.”

The book was released on May 1. Although Metella now lives in Edmonton with her mother, many friends and family remain in the Beach and she wanted to share the story with them.

A book signing will take place on June 8 at Coles, 2169 Queen St. E., from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by a launch event at the nearby Beaches Branch library from 1 to 3 p.m.

Marika and the Auction is available online through Indigo, Amazon, Audreys and YNWP Publishing, and at the Coles book signing. For more info, please visit www.storybooksforseniors.com

140 Wineva Ave.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Helen Metella’s mother reads Marika and the Auction.

he tin-

o to the

Author examines historic ghost stories, and why they are

By Natasha Jackson

BEACH RESIDENT and author Ann McDougall has recently released her book A Ghost in the Room: Supernatural Adventures in Historic Houses.

The book is a lively and humorous nonﬁction work exploring Canadian history, the supernatural, and why ghosts hold such signiﬁcance for us as a culture.

McDougall is a writer, actor, and graphic designer/illustrator. Based in Toronto, she’s lived in the Beach for more than two years now, but used to live near Dufferin Grove Park.

She started her nonﬁction book originally as a 1,000-word essay called The Haunted, which was about her early career as a historic house tour guide at museums and how guests would ask her if the museums were haunted. It was longlisted for the 2022 CBC Nonﬁction Prize.

“People would come in every day and ask me if the museum was haunted, and even when I said no, they would want to tell me their ghost stories and talk about ghosts,” said McDougall.

After her essay was longlisted, publisher Tidewater Press came across the longlist and was interested. So they reached out to McDougall and asked if she wanted to expand it into a book.

She said the process took a few years, starting back in 2022, before the book was ready to be published.

“We went back and forth and put together a book proposal. But it eventually came together, and so I was really pleased with that,” said McDougall.

She did her BA in theatre at York University and spent nearly 20 years working as a guide in Canadian historic house museums which is where she found her love for ghost stories.

She worked at a museum based in Thunder Bay called Fort William Historical Park, one of the largest living history museums in North America. She also worked at Spadina Museum, which is across from Casa Loma, and at Todmorden Mills in the Don River valley.

“I’ve always loved history. It’s always been a real interest of mine, and that kind of led to an interest in, like, why people wanted to know about ghosts,” said McDougall.

A Ghost in the Room was published in October 2025. It looks at how historic spaces spark interest in connecting with the afterlife.

One of the houses that McDougall references in her book is Mackenzie House. A tiny, historical museum on Bond Street in Toronto. It

was the home of William Lyon Mackenzie who was the ﬁrst mayor of Toronto and was well-known for being a leader in the 1837 Rebellion. Many Torontonians claim it is the most haunted house in Canada. His grandson, William Lyon Mackenzie King, who was the Prime Minister of Canada in the 1930s, used to attend seances to communicate with the dead.

McDougall said the idea of ghosts is important to us as a culture because it helps us navigate big questions about who we are as people and what our lives mean.

She said that telling ghost stories is a way to contextualize death and understand it in a way that’s not weighed down by grief and sadness.

“The thing is, in our society, when you talk about death, it’s really heavy, it’s sad. It’s usually in the context of, like, you’ve just lost someone, you’re mourning, and it’s the real grief, and that’s important. That’s part of who we are as people. But I think that ghosts, the thing about ghosts is that they’re not sad, they’re fun,” said McDougall.

She said she wants readers to understand that her book is not necessarily a book of ghost stories, but more of a deep dive into how ghosts are woven into

Centre 55 set to host Spring Fling, Slobberfest over next two weekends

CENTRE 55 will be holding its Spring Festival this Saturday at Bob Acton Park.

The festival runs from noon to 4 p.m. on May 30, and Bob Acton Park is located at 45 William Hancox Ave., north of Gerrard Street East and east of Main Street.

There will be musical performances, food, crafts, games, local vendors and much more at the festival.

Opening ceremonies are at noon followed by a performance from SING! at 1 p.m.; Ripple Rhythm Drumming at 1:30 p.m.; crowd Zumba at 2 p.m.; and the Pepper Shakers performing at 3 p.m.

There will also be a free barbecue along with inﬂatable attractions, contests and more take place at Spring Fling.

And the fun from Centre 55 doesn’t stop there as the following Saturday (June 6) will see the popular Slobberfest taking place at the Leuty Pavilion at the foot of Lee Avenue in the Beach.

Slobberfest is Centre 55’s annual celebration of everything to do with dogs, and it will happen between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on June 6.

Events will include a number of contests for dogs and their owners, including the 11th annual Beagle Wiggle Walk, a pet parade, and a pet-friendly marketplace.

There will be music, prizes and more at Slobberfest.

For more information, please go to www. centre55.com

Canadian culture, what they mean to us, how we’ve engaged with them in the past and how we do today.

“I think it’s actually a really fun book. So it’s more than just spooky. It’s kind of a fun look at our culture,” said McDougall.

A Ghost in the Room can be purchased through Tidewater Press’ website at Tidewaterpress.ca, at Book City in the Beach, Indigo, or Amazon.

PHOTO: SUBMITTED

Author Ann McDougall.

Obituaries &

In Memoriam

A space for remembrance and memory sharing.

We publish Obituaries and In Memoriam notices online and in print. For details, email mark@beachmetro.com or call 647-988-1835

In Loving Memory of Bridget North

In Loving Memory of Bridget North who passed away this month at age 84.

After studying radiology in England and Germany, Bridget emigrated to Toronto on her wedding day in 1964. Bridget spent over 40 years living in the Beaches and delivered the Ward 9 News with her two sons Andrew and Gavin in the 1970s and 80s. Bridget worked as an x-ray technician in various Toronto hospitals and clinics. She was involved in many Beaches groups including being a founding member of the East End Refugee Committee and the Beaches Babysitting Co-op. Until very recently, she was an active participant in her church, committees, and social groups.

Donations in lieu of flowers or in memory of Bridget can be made to St. John’s Norway Anglican Church (stjohnsnorway.com/giving) or The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation (thepmcf.ca).

Bridget was much loved and will be much missed by all who knew her.

“I am thankful for the beauty of the earth and the things we get for free – the sun, the water, the flowers, and the birds (especially the cardinals).” Bridget North

Crossword

Golden Triangle Giant Garage Sale marks 27th year in community

THE ANNUAL Golden Triangle Giant Garage Sale in East York will mark its 27th anniversary next month.

The sale is slated for Saturday, June 6, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Golden Triangle neighbourhood in the Pape and O’Connor avenues area.

A 27-year-old tradition, 100 homes take part in the sale across 13 residential streets in the area.

The event brings together neighbours and local organizations, including the Todmorden Royal Canadian Legion Branch 10 and Salvation Army.

“For 27 years, this garage sale has been about more than just ﬁnding great deals. It’s about bringing neighbours together, sharing stories and building a stronger commu-

nity,” said organizer Lynn Marie Robinson. The community garage sale celebrates sustainability and local spirit.

Attendees can ﬁnd a variety of items, including antiques, vintage clothing, art, children’s items, vinyl and jewelry. A truck from the Salvation Army will be available for unsold items to be donated at the end of the day.

For those looking to refresh their space this spring, organizers are still taking applications for sale vendors. However, homes must be located within the Golden Triangle boundaries. For more information, to register or view the boundary map, please visit https://goldentrianglegaragesale.blogspot. com/2026/05/golden-triangle-giant-garagesale-2026.html

Riverside Eats & Beats slated for June 6

THE RIVERSIDE Eats & Beats Street Fest is back for its 12th year on Saturday, June 6, taking over Queen Street East for a day of local fun.

From noon to 6 p.m., 10 blocks will be taken over by east-end food vendors, restaurants and talented Riverside performers.

The free festival will be taking place along Davies Avenue to McGee Street, and

will feature more than 100 local businesses and organizations.

The day will be focused on diversity and uplifting the community, while creating a walkable food crawl alongside entertainment for residents to enjoy.

For more information, please visit https:// riverside-to.com/events/riverside-eats-beatsstreetfest/

The City of Toronto holds public consultations as one way to engage residents in the life of their city. We invite you to get involved.

Scarborough Bluffs West Project: Eastern Beaches to Bluffer's Park

Public Drop-In Event

The City is holding a Public Consultation Drop-In Event where you can learn more about this project, ask questions and share your comments:

Monday June 1, 2026

5:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m.

Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute

Provide Feedback

Complete an online survey or request a

Background

The Scarborough Bluffs West Project will explore the enhancement and protection of sensitive shoreline and natural areas and opportunities for improved waterfront experience and access between the Eastern Beaches (Silver Birch Avenue) and Bluffer’s Park along Lake Ontario. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and the City of Toronto are seeking public input on the proposed alternatives and evaluation criteria as a part of the ongoing Environmental Assessment.

The study will consider:

• improve how people access, move through, and experience the waterfront

• preserve and enhance the natural environment, including the cultural significance of the Bluffs

• minimize natural hazards and risks to public safety caused by erosion

This Study follows the Comprehensive Environmental Assessment (EA) process which promotes good environmental planning by determining and managing the potential effects of a project prior to implementation.

Information will be collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.

Our public meeting locations are wheelchair accessible. Please contact ScarboroughBluffsWest@toronto.ca

72 hours in advance to arrange additional accommodation

We would like to hear from you

Scarborough Bluffs West Project Team Tel: 416-338-2850

Email: ScarboroughBluffsWest@toronto.ca Visit: toronto.ca/ScarboroughBluffsWest

Arkora album release celebration this Friday at Kingston Road United

POLYPHONIC FUSION band Arkora will take the stage at Kingston Road United Church for the release of their new album, Transﬁgured Light this Friday night.

As the season closer for the Kingston Road Village Concert Series, the May 29 concert will place medieval chants alongside ground-breaking contemporary works, marking the culmination of a project that has spanned seven years, three cities, and eight new compositions.

Under the direction of Beach residents Benton Roark and Kathleen Allan, Arkora is all about bending and blending genres with contemporary vocal music that speaks to the heart of today’s audience.

Reﬂecting on this journey, Roark quotes one of the works on the album with a text by John Muir: “After 10 years of wondering… and wandering in the heart of it, (we are) rejoicing in the glow,” words that capture the essence of Arkora’s transition from New Haven to Vancouver to St. John’s, and now ﬁnally….Toronto.

cus as a 13-piece electric choral-instrumental fusion consort.

Arkora’s commitment to intersecting styles is evident in the concert’s programming, which features motets from the Renaissance and Middle Ages. Most notably, chants by Hildegard von Bingen, a 13thcentury abbess, mystic, and composer renowned for her radical thinking and poetic gifts, will be re-imagined with electronics and improvisatory solos by members of the band.

Arkora brought a similarly eclectic program across Canada from Newfoundland to Vancouver, playing festivals with varied mandates: experimental, chamber, early music. This interplay between Hildegard’s music and contemporary works creates a dialogue across time, allowing listeners to appreciate the timelessness of certain approaches to composition.

After debuting at Newfoundland’s Sound Symposium in 2014, Arkora went on to play notable venues over a decade plus of moving around: Roulette in Brooklyn, The Salvage Vanguard in Austin, Ottawa Chamberfest, Bach Fest in Vancouver, Hugh’s Room and Array Music in Toronto, expanding their reach and solidifying their reputation as a leading force in contemporary vocal music.

Medieval musical techniques found throughout Hildegard’s work, are also present in Arkora’s concert closer, Roark’s Where Endless Ages Roll, which sets an anonymous text from the Appalachian Sacred Harp.

Highlighting this Friday night’s concert will be solo performances by Teiya Kasahara, Namratha Sridevi, and Asitha Tennekoon, each of whom brings world-class talent, as Arkora honours the past and inspires the future.

The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. The church is located at 975 Kingston Rd.

The journey to create Transﬁgured Light has been a long road, and has brought the band from a small chamber group into fo-

Tickets are available for $35 in advance at https://arkora.eventbrite.ca or $40 at the door.

Beach Metro Community News Annual General Meeting set for June 25

THE ANNUAL General Meeting of Ward 9 Community News Inc, the publisher of Beach Metro Community News, will be held on Thursday, June 25 2026, starting at 7 p.m., for the purpose of receiving the ﬁnancial statement and reports of the o cers and sta , to elect o cers for the coming year, and to deal with any new business.

The meeting is open to members of the above association and will take place at the Beach Metro Community News o ce, 2196 Gerrard St. E.

MEMBERSHIP is outlined in the newspaper’s Constitution, as follows:

“1. Any member of the community where the newspaper is distributed, who is willing to support the aims and objectives of the organization, will be accepted on payment of the current year’s fees ($5.00), and will be a member in good standing, and is eligible to vote if in attendance at the annual general meetings, as long as the current year’s fees are paid.

2. No member shall be under the age of sixteen.

4. All members of the distribution team, who have worked with the team for a minimum of six months in the year (continually since Dec. 22, 2025), shall be given an automatic membership in Ward 9 Community News Inc for the current year. There are two provisos:

a) Where the distributor is under age, the membership will be in the name of a parent or guardian.

b) Only one free membership will be allowed per family.”

(Distributors may check their status by contacting Melinda at 416-698-1164 ext. 27 or emailing melinda@beachmetro.com).

ELECTIONS are outlined in the newspaper’s Constitution as follows:

“1. Election of o cers shall be held at the annual meeting.

2. Nomination for o cers of the organization shall

3. No membership will be sold within seven days before the annual meeting (cut o date June 18, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.).

be received in writing, addressed to the secretary by Friday, June 5, 2026, at 5 p.m. Nominations should be accompanied by a description of the nominee’s background with regard to the organization and the general community. The names of those seeking o ce, together with a brief biography, will be published in the issue of Beach Metro Community News immediately preceding the annual meeting (June 23 issue) in order that the membership be able to weigh the merits of each candidate and vote accordingly. Notice for the ﬁnal date for receiving nominations shall be published in the two issues immediately preceding that date (May 12, and May 26, 2026).

3. Where more than one person is nominated for any o ce, the chairperson of the meeting shall count the ballots and declare the nominee receiving the most votes elected.

4. Nominees for the board and nominations shall be members of the Ward 9 Community News Inc. (See paragraphs on membership).

Jazz choir performance set for Beach United

LOCAL JAZZ choir 8

TO THE BAR swings into summer at Beach United Church at 140 Wineva Ave. this Sunday afternoon.

The choir will perform a mix of popular jazz standards and more. Featuring guest bassist George Koller, Dr. Steven Webb on keys, and Sheila Brand directing, the program ranges from Birdland and God Bless the Child to Wade in the Water and The Pink Panther

The May 31 concert starts at 4:30 p.m. and is part of Beach United’s Jazz & Reﬂection series.

Admission is pay-whatyou-can ($20 suggested) at the door or online at www.

beachunitedchurch.com

Along with the concert, attendees who arrive early can take in the ﬁnal day of the Beach Guild of Fine Art’s Spring Show and Sale.

Beginning as a teachers’ choir 16 years ago, 8 TO THE BAR has evolved into an ensemble of 20 women and men singing jazz, blues, gospel and classic pop.

Special guest bassist and multi-instrumentalist Koller is a classically trained, ﬁrstcall Toronto jazz player, composer and producer. Brand, the founder and director, performed leading roles in London and Broadway, then taught at the Sheridan College Musical

Theatre program. Pianist Webb is Director of Music at Beach United and a composer, performer and sound designer who creates new music and video art.

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Local gathering celebrates Bengali and Canadian literature

By Arpita Barua

A CELEBRTION of Bengali and Canadian literature, organized by Canada Journal, took place earlier this month at St. Paul United Church in southwest Scarborough.

The May 1 event brought together writers, poets, and community members to hon-

our the literary contributions of both Bengali and Canadian authors.

The program opened with remarks by Subrata Kumar Das, the founder of Canada Journal and event organizer, on the importance of inclusive spaces that elevate diverse literary voices.

Former and current poets laureate

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George Elliott Clarke, Anne Michaels, A. F. Moritz, and Lillian Allen contributed to the program, highlighting intersections between Canadian literature and diasporic narratives. Also present was Dr. Ikhtyar Omar, educator and Bengali cultural exponent, underscoring the role of community leadership in cultural engagement. A high-

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light was the launch of three publications coordinated by Das: Canadai Ekattor Bangalir Oviggota (Experiences of Seventy One Bengalis in Canada), documenting the experiences of Bengali Canadians; an issue of Sahitya Ekhaan, a Kolkata journal on Canadian literature; and Poetry Out Loud, a London, UK, journal, featuring Canadian works.

June 1

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