Editor’s Welcome
Honouring Leaside’s fallen heroes
For many of us Remembrance Day evokes thoughts of those who gave their lives in the two World Wars, and especially World War II.
For instance, the Leaside Memorial Gardens Honour Roll commemorates young Leaside men who gave their lives during WWII. But increasingly Remembrance Day honours the service of those from many other theatres of conflict.
In this issue Leaside Heritage Preservation Society columnist Ted DeWelles introduces us to Leasider Ronald Campbell, who enlisted in the Canadian Army and ended up seeing intense action in Korea. We tend to hear much less about heroes like Campbell, who may have suffered from what we now call PTSD and ended up taking his own life, than we do the fighters from the two World Wars. We hear even less
about those Canadians who gave their lives in Afghanistan and other countries. We should hear more. Their stories matter.
One way to learn about some of the Leaside heroes who served their country is to participate in Leaside’s Remembrance Day Walk, which has been an annual event since 2022, and is the brainchild of the Leaside Heritage Preservation Society (LHPS). The event takes participants to the houses where 18 young Leasiders lived before heading off to battle during the Second World War, none of whom were to return home. At each place the fallen Leasider’s story is told.
So, on Nov. 11, consider taking a Leaside-focused Remembrance Day walk and learn about Leasiders’ outstanding service.
Lest we forget! n
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Remembering a forgotten Leaside war fatality
The Leaside Memorial Gardens Honour Roll commemorates young Leaside men who gave their lives during WWII. Since then, many other young Leasiders have gone to war. One of them was Ronald Campbell (1929-1952). Ronald fought in the Korean War, and like many Canadians who went to war, he never came home. His story is a tragic one – and a forgotten one – as his death went unreported in the Toronto newspapers. But it’s a story that deserves to be told, especially as Remembrance Day approaches.
A Leaside lad Ronald Campbell was born and raised in Leaside. He lived on Airdrie Rd. (#115 and later #237) and was one of at least nine children. His father worked at nearby Canada Wire and Cable as a rubber worker. Two of his brothers served in WWII, one of whom – Robert – was wounded. In 1946, Ronald left school to work as a telegraph delivery boy and was later
Plaque honouring Ronald Campbell, part of the Korean War Memorial Wall at Meadowvale Cemetery, Brampton. employed by the Sangamo Electric Co. at Laird and Eglinton.
On April 14, 1948, at the age of 18, he enlisted in the Canadian
Army. According to Professor Andrew Burtch of the Canadian War Museum, who has studied his military record, Ronald joined the army because he liked the outdoors and believed he would benefit from the rigour and discipline of military life. He may also have been motivated by the example of his two older brothers.
Upon joining, he was assigned to the 1st Battalion of the famed Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI). Three years later, in 1951, he re-enlisted in Calgary and was promoted to corporal. At the time, the Korean War had been raging for over a year and Canada was deeply involved. That October, Campbell and others in his regiment were sent to Korea as part of the United Nations peacekeeping mission to stop communist aggression in South Korea.
WAR DEAD Page 32
I'M
Dynamo Nina Burgess challenges all
by LORNA KRAWCHUK
How many people do you know about to celebrate their 95th birthday with a nice hike in Killarney Provincial Park? Well, you need to meet Nina Burgess, who turns 95 on November 1.
Nina has been active since growing up on a farm near North Hatley in the Eastern Townships. She attended the Macdonald Institute at McGill University to obtain a degree in home economics. After teaching for a few years, marrying, and with two then-school-aged children, she went to Boston to acquire more qualifications, and ended up at the University of Toronto teaching nutrition to dental and hygienist students for the next 25 years.
But exercise was never far from her mind. She always enjoyed walking, but by pure chance, while talking to a fellow home econo -
of us to just do it!
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mist at a conference in the mid’90s, she was invited to join a small group of women who like to hike. They continue to hike to this day. Some of their hikes are extensive ones – in the Rockies, to the Magdalen Islands, and a few times to Newfoundland, while some are shorter, such as this year’s one to Killarney.
Another chance encounter changed Nina’s life.
One day she happened to be at Princess Margaret Hospital for a radiation appointment for breast cancer when she saw a poster recruiting cancer survivors to join a dragon boat team. That was in 2001. She has been paddling regularly with Dragons Abreast ever since.
This past September, Nina was honoured to walk through a course of raised paddles celebrating her at the GWN (Great White North) Dragon Boat Challenge. She still uses her original lifejacket, never washed, and a lovely paddle with a Maple Leaf emblem she got second-hand. She might be retiring, but “maybe I can be talked into coming back next year.”
Seven years ago, while walking down Bayview, she saw a sign advertising a unit availability at SAHIL at the corner of McRae and Bayview. She and her family had lived in Governor’s Bridge for 37 years, but when her husband was ill, she realized she “didn’t want to be looking after a whole house by myself.” A conversation with one of the board members ended up with Nina moving into SAHIL that fall.
The late Edna Beange, who lived in SAHIL at the time, was a great influence on Nina. Edna made sure that new people to the building were made to feel welcome and included. Nina has taken up that cause, including leading an exercise group that meets regularly.
Exercise is something Nina clearly takes seriously. She exercises at home every morning, goes to aquafit three times a week, and gets in her 10,000 steps a day. For her 90th birthday, she and her family did the Edge Walk at the CN Tower. All this with an artificial hip and two replaced knees! n
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Young Hee Sung’s oasis for art on Laird
by JANIS FERTUCK
Tucked beside various car-related businesses, an unassuming brown duplex at 72 Laird Dr. houses a unique space devoted to art, Laird Art Gallery.
In 2022, Young Hee Sung and her husband Hang Ryeol Na, were facing a rent increase in Ajax and were searching for a new location that could serve as both home and workplace. The property on Laird was perfect because of its mixed zoning for both residential and business uses. The couple run the art gallery on the main floor and live upstairs with the two youngest of their five children, who together range in age from six to 23. Since settling here, the family has been very happy with the welcoming community and its amenities and advantages. They have found the neighbourhood to be very receptive to their gallery, and as a busy mom,
Young Hee appreciates being able to work and live in the same space.
In fact, Young Hee, the gallery’s director, explains that the gallery “serves as a window to promote my art and to communicate and interact with the local community.” She uses a style based on an Asian brush painting technique she learned growing up in Korea, which combines lines and dots to create an embroidery effect. In her work, she focuses on everyday experiences and “tries to capture and reflect the beauty and significance of each passing moment.”
On her journey to Leaside, Young Hee lived in the United States for many years and practised her art in several cities there. In fact, she was part of a team recognized for their work with the Public Diplomacy Award from South Korea for promoting Korean art and literature in Canada and the U.S. in 2016.
In May 2022, Young Hee organized an exhibition at her new gallery with her friends and an alumni group called Nokmee (“green beauty” in Korean) from the art college at Ewha Womans University, which she attended in Korea. This was followed by more exhibits featuring her friends and professional artists throughout that year. Young Hee was the sole artist in the show called “Connection” in 2023, which can still be viewed on the gallery’s website. Her aim is to organize one
exhibition a year when possible. In addition to creating her own paintings, Young Hee offers art classes on a rolling basis. The classes are for seniors and adults, and the gallery space can accommodate up to 12 students. Young Hee features acrylic painting and watercolours and welcomes all levels of ability, including beginners. There are two fall sessions and more will follow in the coming months. She also gives art talks for the Korean Artists Society of Canada and hopes to promote an art culture with artists and writers in the Leaside community to share her gratitude for the “blessing” of being an artist.
While Hang Ryeol acts as the gallery manager, he also runs a non-profit organization called All Seeds Academy in the other half of the building. All Seeds is funded by the New Horizons for Seniors Program, a federal grants program under Employment and Social Development Canada. Its purpose is to provide educational courses for seniors and economically disadvantaged individuals. Hang Ryeol teaches environmental health and courses related to environmental policy and science, science technology and public policy, Korean language and Bible study. The Academy also offers courses such as art (taught by Young Hee), singing and home caregiving. n
JANIS FERTUCK
10th Annual Duende Flamenco Festival
Vida Al Andalus
November 14–17, 2024
Immerse yourself in the fiery world of flamenco with an exhilarating celebration of dance, music, and film.
For tickets visit agakhanmuseum.org/duende2024
The Museum’s Performaing Arts programming is generously supported by the Nanji Family Foundation.
by MITCH BUBULJ
In any healthy community, communication often leads to positive change.
That’s just what happened when a long-time Leaside resident and veteran, who chooses to remain anonymous, made some interesting observations about the signs promoting the annual Remembrance Day Walk.
The walk, which has been an annual event since 2022, is the brainchild of the Leaside Heritage Preservation Society (LHPS). The event takes participants to the houses where 18 young Leasiders lived before heading off to battle during the Second World War, none of whom were to return home. At each place the fallen Leasider’s story is told.
An example profile is featured here (of Richard John Walton).
The event is very popular and was even nominated for a 2023 Heritage Toronto Public History Award. One participant was quoted as saying the walk is poignant, and that “the bios
A hero lived here
Richard John Walton (1924-1944)
Richard Walton enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in 1942 at the age of 18. At the time of his enlistment, he was living at 871 Millwood Road. On June 22, 1944, his aircraft (a Lancaster bomber) was on a bombing mission over Europe when it failed to return to base. It was later determined that the plane had been shot down over Belgium. There were no survivors. Richard Walton is buried at the Concelho Cemetery in Belgium. He was 20 years old at the time of his death. — Canadian Virtual War Memorial website; Ancestry.ca.
made it come alive. …I’m looking forward to more tours like this one” (Leaside Life, Dec. 1, 2022).
The eagle-eyed Leaside veteran, who had done two deployments to Afghanistan, remarked, “I was impressed by the whole gesture but was surprised to see the poster refer only to soldiers.” He pointed out, a ‘soldier’ is a member of the army, the land component of the armed forces. In fact, of all the fallen Leasiders remembered on the walk, only two were soldiers in the strictest sense, with the others being mostly airmen or sailors. This is not surprising since the survival rate was lowest for those who joined the air force (RCAF or RAF) compared with those in the army or navy.
“As an organization that is committed to this community and its history, we listen to our stakeholders and their concerns and respond accordingly,” said LHPS Chair Ann Brown.
So, this year when you join the Remembrance Day Walk, you’ll notice something different: brand new signage. To take part in this year’s walk, on Nov. 11, meet at Trace Manes Park, commencing at 2:00 p.m. n
Another home-run season for the Leaside Baseball Association
by SUSAN SCANDIFFIO
The Leaside Baseball Association (LBA) took the city – and province –by storm this season, winning multiple titles and breaking its own organization’s records.
Sixteen LBA teams qualified for City Finals, with a league-record eight bringing home the ultimate victory in extremely competitive divisions.
Additionally, two LBA teams took home provincial championships – an incredibly impressive feat.
The Leaside Leafs 11U Select team ended the season with a remarkable record of 37-1.
Under the direction of head coach Darrin Pruss, the boys finished second in the province two years ago before taking the title this past Labour Day weekend.
The incredible success of the team, says Pruss, “was due to the boys’ enthusiasm, dedication and overall love for the game. They were always prepared for games/prac-
Leaside 11U AAA champs!
tices and followed the team rules and philosophies.”
The Leaside 11 AAA Leafs team, meanwhile, has also boasted an exceptional history at the provincial championships.
The team won the championship two years ago, finished second last year and won it again this season.
Coach Jason Ellefson notes that
“after losing in the finals last year, the boys were laser focused on regaining the title this year and put in a tremendous amount of work to achieve their goal. They demonstrated a remarkable amount of resilience and a ‘never give up’ attitude.”
Congratulations to all the LBA teams on a fantastic season! You’ve done us proud. n
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Yolanda T. Marshall wants to know –what’s in your cookie tin?
by SUZANNE PARK
Growing up in Guyana, Yolanda T. Marshall dreamed of Canada where her mom was working three jobs and saving up to buy a condo, so she could bring her girls to Toronto.
As a young teen, Yolanda and her two sisters joined their mom in Toronto and attended Marc Garneau Collegiate Institute on Overlea Blvd. Yolanda gleefully reminisced about settling into her new home and community. “I felt rich! Rich because I had my own room. Rich because I had so many friends. Rich because I was immersed in a cultural soup at Marc Garneau.”
And at that time, unbeknownst to Yolanda, this was where the seeds of her many future books were planted. In early adulthood, Yolanda became a Leasider, renting her first apartment at Laird and Eglinton. She commented, “It was perfect for me. Everything was close by. The bank, Canadian Tire and the TTC delivered me downtown to my job
at the Hudson Bay’s fashion-buying office. And my first book, Keman’s First Carnival, published in 2016, was written in
that apartment and features children enjoying Caribbean culture, music and food.”
In addition to being an accomplished author, Yolanda is a mesmerizing storyteller. She had me fascinated with her vocal cadence and joyful animation as she relayed how her day-today experiences have spawned her many children’s picture books.
Her book Hot Cross Buns emerged from an Easter staple in Canada, the hot cross bun. During high school lunches, Yolanda discovered that her friends from all different cultures had their own version of the hot cross bun. The teens delighted in exchanging diverse stories of family gatherings and recipes connected to their enjoyment of this unique treat.
Another story, A Piece of Black Cake for Santa , she knew would be a hit. It was inspired by her son’s delight in a festive ritual. One Christmas when she and her young son were preparing the traditional North American treat of milk and cookies for Santa, Yolanda asked him, “What would you like to leave out for Santa?”
With his eyes bright he declared, ‘I know! Let’s leave Santa black cake and sorrel drink’. I was thrilled!”
Yolanda then explained. “Black cake and sorrel drink are favourites of many Caribbean cultures. Each with their own variation.” The sorrel drink’s main ingredient is the flowers of the roselle plant, a species of hibiscus, while black cake, also known as rum cake, wedding cake and Christmas cake, combines lots of dried fruit and rum and takes days to prepare and mature.
Yolanda is now an award-winning published author of 20 inclusive and celebratory children’s books. Her most recent title, What’s in the Cookie Tin? , is an ode to a time when many households kept emptied cookie tins to store a variety of household items. In our house it was referred to as “the button box” as it was filled to the brim with buttons. In Yolanda’s house a Royal Dansk tin stored sewing supplies. What’s in your cookie tin? Let us know at leasidelife@gmail.com. n
GINA AYANNA
I miss the snowfalls of yesteryear
Now don’t misunderstand me. I’m not lamenting the milder winters we’ve been having and the less than frequent snowfalls – though I’m not thrilled about the existential threat global warming poses. But for those of us of a certain vintage, winters in Leaside used to be much snowier than they have been in recent years. Back in the late ’60s and early ’70s, winter, or rather snow, started in November, right about now. It started with overnight frost in the early days of the month, and then one morning we’d wake up to an eight-inch blanket of snow. That first snowfall was always very exciting. Well, it was exciting for my twin brother Tim and me. My parents never seemed quite as thrilled with the dawn of the snowy season as we were. In fact, there was often the adult version of moaning and complaining when the flakes started falling. We’d fetch the snow shovels from the basement where they’d been stored since that unexpected last-gasp April blizzard the previous spring. The half-full (always the optimist) bag of road salt would also make its way up from the furnace room ready to be
scattered on our front walk.
The only part of the first snowfall we didn’t enjoy in our childhood was the return of the snowsuit. For some reason, our mother felt that wearing a snowsuit to school in Grade 4 was just fine when the rest of the world clearly understood that Grade 3 was the cutoff. The snow-suited kids in Grade 4 were mercilessly teased. But other than that, the first snowfall was cause for celebration. The walk to school took much longer as we’d of course have to navigate the huge snowbanks left by the big plows. And we didn’t always pursue the path of least resistance or honour the timeless axiom about the shortest distance between two points being a straight line. Plus, there were snowballs to throw.
But when we finally made it to the
Bessborough school yard, other joyful distractions awaited. By the time we arrived in the schoolyard, the East York Board of Education workers had already cleared the paved portion of the yard creating a long snowbank not unlike the Himalayas just on the edge of the field. By the third snowfall, the mountain range was probably 10 ft. high, the perfect setting for a pitched battle with the Grade 5s and 6s. It was thrilling in the morning before class, it was thrilling during morning and afternoon recess, and it was still thrilling after school. It’s amazing there weren’t more injuries. We would claw our way up to the top of the mountain, well, snowbank, and tackle the older kids sending them, and often us, too, back to the bottom. While regrouping for another assault, we’d soften up our foes by hurling snowballs at them. All these years later, I still remember how much fun it was to play “capture the snowbank,” though I haven’t participated for the last several years now. Snowball fights would slow us down on our walk home at the end of the school day but we never, ever, threw an errant snowball that missed its mark and instead happened to hit a slow-moving Eaton’s delivery truck. That never happened. Not once. When we’d finally make it home, if there was enough light left, we’d grab our toboggan and head for what we always called the double hill at Talbot Park just next to the football field. As I may have mentioned in an earlier column, years ago, just sliding down the hill on a toboggan was a little too tame for us. So, we’d bring along shovels and build a jump halfway down the hill. We liked to mix our tobogganing with a little flying.
The current state of our climate crisis promises future winters without the kind of seasonal snow accumulation I remember from my school years. Those were the days. But they’re also a reminder that we all have to get focused on doing our part to arrest rising temperatures or it may be more than snowfalls that become a thing of the past. Here’s hoping we’ll still have a few good tobogganing days this winter.
A two-time winner of the Stephen Leacock Medal for Humour, Terry Fallis grew up in Leaside and is the award-winning writer of nine national bestsellers. He’s busy working on his 10th novel, The Marionette n
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Surely, we can all do better
by CHERYL VANDERBURG
A recent damning Toronto Parks audit could have been talking about the perpetually littered state of the Georgia Walsh playground at Trace Manes Park.
But first, let me digress. If people didn’t litter in the first place, there would be no litter. Sounds simple enough, right? Why do people treat public spaces with less respect than they treat their own homes? I wish I knew the answer.
City parks and ravines represent 13 per cent of all land in Toronto. The municipality spends approximately $190 million on the parks branch with $57.5 million of that dedicated to summer park maintenance. There are around 700 permanent and temporary workers in the winter and more than 1,300 in the spring and summer.
Since, as a taxpayer, I am paying their salaries, here is what I would like to know and have posted on the City website for community reference:
1. How often and when does Trace Manes Park get cleaned?
2. What gets cleaned: the splash pad? playground? bushes? behind the bench seats? around the litter bins? the entrances? along the fence lines?
3. How often and when are the litter bins emptied?
4. What are the cleanliness standards and how does management ensure they are being met?
I have asked for this information many times and have been told it cannot be provided. Why is it a secret? Maybe this is why.
The audit revealed two major issues: The parks branch does not regularly monitor whether its service level standards are being achieved, and there are discrepancies between GPS records and maintenance activity logs created by employees.
To remedy this, the auditor general’s office made the following recommendations:
1. Use technology to improve scheduling and tracking;
2. Boost supervision of employees;
3. Establish performance expectations, and review service standards.
Hopefully these actions by the City will improve the ongoing litter situation.
But as a community what are we
willing to do? Be more conscious about not littering? Pick up litter when we see it rather than walking by it? Organize community cleanup days? Call 311 to identify litter issues?
As Jane Jacobs said, “People don’t litter where there is no litter.” Surely, we can do better. n
LEASIDE MATTERS EXPERIENCE MATTERS
EARLY VOTING
OCTOBER 26 & 27
“I have lived in Leaside for over 20 years, and have represented our community on the Toronto District School Board for six years, including two years as Chair of the Board. My pragmatic, solutionsoriented approach has made great strides for our community and our city.”
RACHEL’S PRIORITIES
Building walkable communities with parks, recreation facilities, and community centres.
Managing traffic and fighting gridlock.
Ensuring development reflects our community’s values and concerns.
Tackling crime to ensure our neighbourhoods are safe and secure.
CONNECT WITH ME
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RACHEL CHERNOS LIN
ELECTION DAY
NOVEMBER 4
Leaside’s truly hair-raising experiences
by LISA PARKER
Leaside boasts a wide and wonderful array of hairstyling emporia. With more than 20 hair salons and barber shops in the area, Leaside is a destination for those looking for great hair services. In fact, Leaside may have the most hair places per square kilo metre in Toronto.
Some of these places have been in the neighbourhood for many years, while others are relative newcomers to our community. Whether you want a cut, colour or an updo, a kids’ haircut, or a shave and a trim, there is a (hir) suitable option for you in our community. Haircuts and related services are very personal choices; we each have favourites and tend to seek out a place with a vibe that makes us feel comfortable and ends with a good result. The broad range of choices in Leaside ensures there is a great hair experience for everyone.
Barbershops
George’s Barber Shop has been in Leaside for 15 years and almost eight in the current location (814 Eglinton Ave. East). Owner George Hababeh says, “We welcome clients of all ages to our classic barbershop (including a barber pole outside); the youngest one ever was six months old, and we have clients in their 90s.”
The shop boasts regulars from the community and beyond. www.
georgesbarbershopleaside.com
Opened in 1964, Tony’s Barber Shop (1649 Bayview Ave.) celebrated its 60th anniversary on June 15th. Tony (for whom the shop is named) retired in 2006 after more than 40 years as a barber. The current owner, Amri Khatib, has been at Tony’s for 30 years offering clients barbershop specialties. According to Amri, the shop “has cut generations of Leasiders’ hair including several notable residents like former Toronto
Maple Leaf George Armstrong.” www.tonysbarberbayview.com.
Shave and Shears (1609 Bayview Ave.) is a relative newcomer to Leaside. Owner Bahar Hosseinzadeh opened unique, luxurious space in early 2024. As their website states, “we’re all about creating a unique space where men can truly escape, unwind, and pamper themselves.” Shave and Shears specializes in highend barber services with a luxury salon vibe. www.shaveandshears.com. Other notable Leaside barbershops include:
The Ritz Barbershop at (1693A Bayview Ave.) www.ritzbarbers.ca. Leaside Fades
Barbershop (866 Eglinton Ave. East).
Hair Salons
Fiorio Salon has been a staple for over 20 years at 1541 Bayview Ave., pro viding the perfect blend of style and care for the whole family. Tianli Zhai took over the business in 2020 just as pandemic lockdowns were starting. She says, “Thankfully, we’re nestled in a wonderful neighbourhood with a fantastic team and loyal clients,” who helped Fiorio weather the challenges. “We are here to support you on your hair and scalp journey,” she adds. Fiorio offers a broad range of services from haircuts, colour and updos. www.fiorio.com/bayview.
Hairscapes (1632 Bayview Ave.) is owned by Laura Wrightman, who grew up in Leaside. This salon, with a loyal following, prides itself on providing clients with personalized focus and quality service for the whole family for over 30 years.
Laila Alcozi opened Lilac Hair Studio (708 Millwood Rd.) in 2022 with a passion for creating beautiful transformations for everyone – adults and kids – regardless of gender. Laila says, “It’s been incredibly rewarding to connect with clients in the community as they have made every day a pleasure.” www.womenshaircutstoronto.ca.
Artistic Hair Lounge (1519 Bayview Ave.) celebrated their 10th anniversary in October. This family business, known for the excellent broad range of hair styling services
Common Mistakes When It Comes To Our Bladders
As we go through certain stages of life like having babies, and getting older, it is common (not normal) for both women and men to notice our bladders seem to lack the control we used to have. Here are a few common mistakes when dealing with this lack of control, and some great news on how easy it is to fix it.
1) THE “JUST-IN-CASE” PEE
So many of us do the “just-in-case” pee before we leave our homes…even though our bladder isn’t actually full. This training began as kids when our parents would say “I want you to go just in case.” It can become a problem for some, that they can’t walk by a washroom without feeling triggered to go. Here’s the truth, repeatedly going to the washroom just-in-case trains your brain to signal your bladder when it isn’t full. The key is to stop and ask yourself in the moment: “Is this – I should go, I could go or I must go?”
2) LIMITING YOUR FLUIDS SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO PEE
This is a classic move by many who struggle with urgency and bladder leaks. They avoid fluids assuming it will help minimize urgency. The truth is when you limit fluids, your urine becomes more concentrated and acidic. That acid irritates the lining of your bladder, which causes the bladder to spasm, and send a signal to your brain that you need to go. It seems counterintuitive but keeping yourself well hydrated can actually minimize urgency.
3) IGNORING YOUR PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLES
I’m speaking to women and men here. The fitness of your pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in challenges with your bladder. Waking up at night to pee, bladder leaks throughout the day (think sneezing and exercising), overpowering urgency, high frequency of bathroom visits, difficulty with sexual functioning, and pelvic organ prolapse (for women). All of these issues have a significant impact on our quality of life, and you absolutely don’t have to live with them. Keeping these muscles strong has never been more important.
At UROSPOT, life changing innovation puts an end to these issues. You simply sit fully clothed on what looks like a futuristic chair. The medical device (approved by Health Canada) uses energy to grow muscle. Electromagnetic energy from the chair actually strengthens your pelvic floor by doing over 11,000 kegels (muscle contractions) in just 28 minutes. 95% of clients report a significant quality of life improvement, and nearly 80% eliminate or reduce the use of pads. With no pain or downtime, treatment at UROSPOT (stands for Urology Spot) is the most dignified treatment for a frustrating problem. Did I mention you remain fully clothed and it’s a touch free, private experience?
If you want to sleep through the night, enjoy intimacy again, end bladder leaks, and be back in control of your bladder, a complimentary consultation at UROSPOT is time well spent. In just 30 minutes they provide all kinds of education and let you try the technology…because feeling is believing. You deserve to live life with confidence. UROSPOT is here to help.
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Leaside Sports Hall of Fame names new achievers
by SUSAN SCANDIFFIO
On Friday, Oct. 25th, the Leaside Sports Hall of Fame once again celebrated the achievements of athletes and those who have volunteered tirelessly to build the local sports community.
Hosted by celebrated local author Terry Fallis, the ceremony saw the induction of two new members into the Hall and the recognition of both an athlete and a team of the year.
HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
Peter (Pete) Conacher Athlete - Hockey
Growing up in Leaside, Pete Conacher played hockey in both pickup games around the neighbourhood and, more widely, from 1943, with the Toronto Hockey League. A member of the Leaside Pee-Wee team, Conacher went on to play with the North Toronto Kinsmen Terriers until he became the property of the Chicago Blackhawks at the age of 16.
Ontario Hockey Association affiliate, the Galt Blackhawks, Conacher continued for 13 years of professional hockey with the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Hershey Bears, St. Louis Flyers, and Buffalo Bisons. In 1959, he played with the Belleville McFarlands, which represented Canada at the Ice Hockey World Championships, winning gold in Prague.
After playing professionally, Conacher participated in charity games across Canada for 13 years with the NHL Oldtimers Hockey Club.
Phillip Francis Builder - Lawn Bowling
Phillip Francis has been a driving force behind the development and promotion of lawn bowling locally and nationally for well over 25 years.
With the Leaside Lawn Bowling Club, Francis has held several positions, among them greens director, director of special events, LLBC district representative, club vice president and president on multiple occasions.
Under his leadership, various initiatives were launched, including charitable and community events. He also provided leadership in the renovation of the club, resulting in a fully accessible facility.
After playing for the Blackhawks’
He is a past president of the Ontario chapter of Special Olympics Canada and has served as a board member for the Charlie Conacher Throat Cancer Research Fund at the Toronto General Hospital. He currently sits on the board of directors of the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame.
At the provincial level, Francis has held multiple elected positions with the Ontario Lawn Bowling Association. As director of grants, vice president and president of the association, he successfully acquired over $900,000 in grant money, oversaw operational planning, reviewing and reporting to ensure adherence to governmental regulations, and developed the OLBA’s long-term athlete development plan.
At the national level, Francis has been a director of Bowls Canada since 2022 and a member of fundraising and governance committees. He was a founding member of the Leaside Sports Hall of Fame.
TEAM OF THE YEAR AWARD
The Leaside High School Girls Varsity Hockey Team
For the first time in the school’s history, the Leaside High School’s girls’ varsity hockey team won the TDSSAA city championship.
Under the leadership of coach Cecily Osborne, girls of all grades battled fierce opponents to win the city’s ultimate trophy.
ATHLETE OF THE YEAR AWARD
Cassie Lee
A gymnast since the age of 3, 18-year-old Cassie Lee was one of only five gymnasts chosen to represent Canada at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
A member of the Canadian National Team since 2019, Lee competed on the floor, the balance beam, the uneven bars and the vault.
Lee and the Canadian artistic gymnastics team qualified for team finals for the first time in 12 years and ended up placing fifth, tying the highest Canada team placement at an Olympic final.
This tireless athlete is now in her first year at the University of Iowa where she is continuing her academic and gymnastics journey. Congratulations to all of this year’s Leaside Sports Hall of Fame achievers! n
The Idler has been, well, idle for a while but is happy to be back since there is so much to share this issue.
Just vote!
A lot has been going on in Leaside lately with the municipal by-election a red-hot issue for many in Don Valley West. Sixteen candidates have joined the ballot to fill the council position left open from the death of Jaye Robinson. Some readers have asked why Leaside Life does not publicly endorse a particular candidate. The New York Times, Toronto Star, Globe and Mail and many other trusted publications have been known to throw their editorial weight behind a chosen candidate. Does Leaside Life not have an opinion? This issue represents our 150th issue and since our founding, we have chosen to take a neutral stance and not endorse candidates. We believe our role is to provide a forum for information and idea-sharing and to encourage our readers to get involved, engage with the candidates and form their own opinions. With typical voter turnout in municipal elections often falling below 40%, we encourage you to vote on Nov. 4th.
MANOR ROAD UNITED CHURCH
Celebrating 100 Years of Spiritual Guidance and Charitable Good Works, May 2025
Join us in person or on YouTube for a welcoming, contemporary and spiritual Sunday service at 10:30 am. Everyone is invited!
UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS:
REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE
Sunday, Nov.10th 10:30 featuring the 78th Fraser Highlanders in Authentic Uniforms with Bag Piper and Trumpeter
Save the Date: Sat. Dec. 7th, 9 am SANTA IS COMING TO THE MANOR!
All-you-can-eat Pancake Breakfast
Family $28.00 Kids $6.00 Adults $10.00
Join the Parade and Pictures with Santa FREE POTLUCK LUNCH
The first Sunday of the month, 11:30 am
240 Manor Road East, Toronto, ON
manorroadunitedchurch.com
She shoots, we all score
Women’s hockey in Canada has been around since the late 1800s, so the title of an upcoming documentary film is certainly apropos. It’s Been A Long Time Coming shares the real stories of Leaside Wildcats at all levels. The documentary film was produced by two graduating students in the sport media program at TMU. The filmmakers met with six Wildcat minor hockey players, two players on the senior team and two coaches. They are also planning interviews with a former Wildcat and current PWHL player, and Jayna Hefford, vice president of operations for the PWHL. Emma May Beckett and Rylee Cawthorne met in their camera class in second year. Rylee, who grew up on the west coast, and Emma, who hails from Collingwood, bonded over their love of hockey. Combining their love of hockey and film, plus responding to the recent launch of the first professional women’s hockey league (the PWHL), they conceived their final short film project to “make a positive impact in women’s sports and to inspire female athletes of all ages.”
Look for the film’s premiere in the spring of 2025.
Jim Rosenthal recognized for 50 years of volunteerism
Leasider and SAHIL resident Jim Rosenthal was recently awarded the 2024 June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Volunteerism for his contributions to Kennedy House. This award is in memory of the late author and journalist June Callwood, and recognizes the leadership, innovation and contributions of individuals, volunteer administrators and volunteer organizations who support their communities and help build a stronger Ontario. “Jim is a founding member of Kennedy House, and he has served at-risk youth for 50+
THE Idler
Curious
years. From the start, he has fostered a profound sense of community. Kennedy House provides meals and shelter, employment direction, educational and life skills to over 14,000 young people. Community work is work that never ends. But Jim’s compassion, kindness and leadership are just endless.”
A Leaside tradition continues
The 28th Annual Rotary Community Corn Roast, held this past September at Trace Manes Park, was, by all accounts, a resounding success. With more than 70 volunteers including support from other Rotary Clubs and students from Leaside High School, the event attracted over 1,200 visitors. A special thanks to the winner of the 50/50 draw who generously donated half of the winning prize to the Rotary Foundation.
Ernesto Rubini, R.I.P
This past May, the Idler shared the story of Ernesto Rubini, who was battling a rare form of leukemia. Sadly, Ernesto, who for over 40 years coached and mentored soccer in the Thorncliffe, Flemingdon, and Leaside communities, died this past August. In his obituary, Ernesto, who himself donated blood more than 100 times, encouraged those who could to continue donating blood.
It takes a community; happy 150th issue!
Finally, a little pat on our own back. This issue represents the 150th issue of Leaside Life. A special thanks to our committed team of contributors, both past and present, our loyal advertisers, many of whom have been with us for all 150 issues, and you, our readers. Our goal has always been to foster a deeper sense of community by engaging readers with hyper-local stories about the people, businesses and organizations calling Leaside and Bennington Heights home. Thank you for sharing the journey with us. Here’s to 150 more! n
AINSLEY SOETERIK
Emma & Rylee
Conveniently located at 3300 Yonge St. (Yonge and Fairlawn) Register at www.tandemstudiostoronto.com or give us a call at 647-348-4953.
How will our next councillor deal with climate change?
The Don Valley West for Environmental Action is a group of concerned residents who want to know how our next councillor will deal with our rapidly changing environment.
And I do too!
Back in July, I was informed by the Green Neighbours Network (GNN) about a new group taking shape in our Don Valley West riding. Mike Green from GNN was there from the start to guide and help them organize.
By August, the group had blossomed from five to 10 strong, and together they created the following mission statement:
“We are a group of concerned residents committed to fostering a sustainable and resilient future. As we approach the upcoming by-election in Ward 15, we seek to engage candidates in meaningful dialogue about their positions on environmental issues.”
Music to my ears!
Each member has a particular area
of interest, with the common denominator being to advocate for a healthy environment...for all.
Here are just a few members from the team, their areas of interest, along with some of their questions for candidates.
Karen Mergler is a long-time resident of Don Valley West who spent 33 years in the multi-residential sector. Her interests lie in finding green solutions for the built residential environment with a focus on supporting design and retrofits that bring both reductions in energy and water use.
Karen asks:
• Could you describe what steps you would take to encourage the transition by homeowners and businesses to solar and other green energy sources?
• Do you have any thoughts about how Toronto could reduce waste and the emissions from waste?
Janet Young has lived in Don Valley West for 28 years and has a background in graphic design. Having worked with GrandTrees Climate Solutions (to help get trees planted throughout the city) and Toronto Nature Stewards (a community organization working to increase biodiversity in our ravines and natural areas), she states her interests are in creating and maintaining healthy green spaces.
Janet asks:
• What do you see as the issues regarding our parks, especially in
view of the ever-increasing density in the southern part of our ward?
• What measures will you take to protect our ravines?
Christine Bear is a biomedical researcher at SickKids Hospital with a focus on respiratory health. She sees the need for an effective government response to the health concerns driven by traffic pollution and worsening heat for our kids and vulnerable adults.
Christine asks:
• How would you help to mitigate the damaging effects of severe weather events caused by climate change, especially for our most vulnerable residents?
Holly Reid has lived in Leaside for more than 35 years and is wellknown for her cycling column in Leaside Life. Her passion for safe active transportation options comes from a desire to see people reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by choosing walking and biking more often.
Holly asks:
• Are there transportation improvements for both active transportation and transit in Don Valley West that would meaningfully assist in contributing to a lower carbon community?
Lisa Smecca , the administrative co-ordinator of this group, had a long career in human resources along with training and development. More recently, she has been involved in activities related to climate change as part of her commitment to making the world a safer place for her daughter, and all the children of the world.
Lisa asks:
• If you were elected councillor, would you meet regularly with our organization and make space in your newsletter for a climate corner?
By the middle of October (and at the time of my writing this) the group had interviewed nine of the 16 candidates. Results of their findings can be found at the Green Neighbours Network website at gnntoronto.ca/dvwbyelection and at the Toronto Climate Action Network, www.tcan.ca.
November 4th is just around the corner, but there’s still time to do some homework before you cast your vote. n
Ready, set, go… and vote for our next councillor!
By GEOFF KETTEL
By the time you read this you will know all about the upcoming Ward 15 by-election – the candidates and the issues, having attended the Oct. 16 virtual candidates’ meeting organized by the By-Election Planning Committee of the 14 residents’ associations in Ward 15.
The one big change with the candidates’ meeting from last month’s Leaside Life was an increase in the number of invited candidates from five to 11. As explained, our overriding concern was to ensure a meeting that allowed for a meaningful and civil discussion of the issues facing residents of Ward 15 (and the City). With 16 candidates, we faced a significant challenge, and we decided early on to create a selection process to reach a smaller number (five) of invited candidates. We asked candidates to complete a pre-qualification questionnaire. Four candidates could not be contacted at all, while 11 candidates completed and submitted the questionnaire. We heard of concerns from many
NOV. 4, 2024
candidates, including those already invited to participate on Oct. 16, that they wanted us to find a way to invite a larger number of candidates. We looked carefully at the format options and decided that this could be done – though still a challenge! So, we invited 11 candidates, those who completed and submitted the questionnaire, to participate. These questionnaires are posted on the Leaside Residents Association website: https://leasideresidents. ca/ward-15-by-election-survey-responses. Here are the remaining key events and dates:
• Advance voting was scheduled for
Sat., Oct. 26 and Sun., Oct. 27, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Election Day is on Mon., Nov. 4, with voting locations open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
To receive a ballot at the voting place, you must show identification with your name and Ward 15, Don Valley West address. To help shorten wait times, download and take the voter information card with you, along with your identification.
VISIT toronto.ca/MyVote:
• Check out the candidates running for councillor.
• Find out if you are on the voters’ list.
• Find out where and when to vote.
• Find accessibility info about your voting place.
• View a sample of the ballot.
• View, download and/or print your Voter Information Card.
FOLLOW CITY OF TORONTO SOCIALS
• X: @cityoftoronto
• Facebook: City of Toronto
• Instagram: @cityofto n
Have you discovered the plaques of Leaside?
In this month of remembrance, we remember those who lost their lives in service to our country. We attend ceremonial services like those at Sunnybrook and East York Cenotaphs on Nov. 11. And our forebears invested in permanent memorials, such as the stainedglass windows of Leaside United Church, placed in remembrance of nine “Leaside lads.”
But in a sense, plaques in public places are memorials too, of people, places and events. Leaside has a few – I counted nine, plus “the one that got away.” More on that soon!
The glacial erratic Leaside Library (165 McRae Dr.)
We don’t have any plaques commemorating Indigenous subjects, but we do have one about a glacial erratic – a Pre-Cambrian rock –sitting close to the entrance of Leaside Library where you cannot miss it.
Agnes Macphail House (2 Donegall Dr./720 Millwood Rd.)
The plaque fronts a duplex in Art Moderne style, which was the home of Agnes Macphail, the first woman elected to the Canadian Parliament. The plaque was installed in 2012, following a fund-raising campaign by the East York Historical Society.
Thomas Elgie House (262 Bessborough Dr.)
A Heritage Toronto plaque marks the Thomas G. Elgie house, constructed in 1883. It’s the oldest surviving house in Leaside, built in the 1880s. The house sat on a vantage point overlooking the picturesque
Walmsley Brook. Since then, streets have been laid out, and lands have been subdivided, but the Elgie house remained as a testament to those earlier times.
The Committee of Adjustment rejected the severance of the property and the minor variances. The Ontario Municipal Board heard the case, and a settlement was reached which did involve the lot split and a move forward of the house, albeit by a reduced amount.
At least, that is, until 2013, when an application came to the Committee of Adjustment for consent to sever the property into three lots, and several “minor variances” to permit a major infill development. The City moved to designate the property in 2014.
The Queen was here! (Parkette at Eglinton and Bessborough)
The unnamed parkette at the northwest corner of Bessborough and Eglinton overlooks the playing field at Leaside High School. In its centre sits a tree, girdled by an impressive wrought iron fence, which is the (former) site of a plaque. Sadly, this plaque mysteriously disappeared, sometime in 2014. It’s believed that the fence was built around a tree planted by Queen Elizabeth II when she visited Toronto in 1951, just months before her coronation. Canada’s First Air Mail (Brentcliffe and Broadway)
Canada’s First Air Mail heritage plaque sits on an island where Broadway and Brentcliffe converge. Jane Pitfield in her book Leaside describes how the plaque commemorating the 40th anniversary of Canada’s first airmail flight in 1918 was placed in front of the apartment
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building at 970 Eglinton E., marking the site (Leaside Airport) where the plane touched down. However, it later disappeared, and was replaced, but not in the same place. The Brentcliffe/ Broadway Parkette was thought to be a “less vulnerable location.”
Serena Gundy’s Garden
Serena Gundy Park – named after the first wife of the late James H. Gundy, head of the Wood Gundy securities firm – sits in the valley downstream of where Burke Brook joins the West Don River. The North Leaside entrance to Serena Gundy Park (across from Rykert Crescent and Broadway) features a commemorative plaque on the wall to the right, on which is written: “This was Serena Gundy’s garden. She loved it and would be happy to share it with others.”
The Gundy family owned the land, and the plaque, dated March 8, 1960, marks their transfer to Metro Toronto. Indeed, the terms of the land transfer require that the park be used “…for the purposes of a Public Park for the free use, benefit and enjoyment of the citizens of the Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto, such park to be known as ‘Serena Gundy Park’.”
ing at 85 Laird, in its context of the railway and industrial history of Leaside.” The site layout was planned to emphasize the east-west sight line to the heritage building, and the plaques are in line with that: one located close to, and visible to those entering the building, the other located near the eastwest axis.
Site of William Lea Farmhouse (1073 Millwood Rd.)
This commemorative plaque, affixed to the north wall of the William Lea Room, marks the site of the octagonal brick farmhouse built by settler William Lea in 1851-54. The plaque recognizes the contribution of William Lea, and the house, but also the importance of the site in the railway and industrial history of Leaside.
This plaque commemorates Bert F. Grant, the visionary founder of the multi-generational family that constructed the Crestview Apartments in 1950-51. They comprise 22 separate buildings on a 10-acre site on Leacrest Rd. from Rolph Rd. to Mallory Cres. The Crestview Apartments property has, remarkably, remained in the same family-owned business since construction, and deserves heritage protection. After admiring and learning from the varied plaques of Leaside, what’s next – should there be more? If so, what people, places and events would you like to see commemorated? Let us know at leasidelife@gmail.com. n
Canada as a Railway Town and Railway Maintenance Facility – now Longo’s (85 Laird Dr.)
Two commemorative plaques were installed associated with the development of the new shopping centre on Laird in 2012, in accordance with the Heritage Interpretation Plan, to “interpret, celebrate and commemorate the heritage build-
Bert F. Grant (35 Leacrest Rd.)
LEASIDE UNITED CHURCH 822 Millwood Road Toronto, ON M4G 1W4
Tel: 416-425-1253 www.leasideunited.com
CONTEST
Email your name and phone number to LeasideLife@gmail.com with the name of your favourite local hair salon. You could win one of two $100 gift certificates to the Leaside salon of your choice. Check out Lisa Parker’s overview of local hair studios on page18!
Last month’s winner of two tickets to the Leaside Sports Hall of Fame awards is Parim Visram. Congrats! One entry per person. Winner will be randomly selected from all correct entries received by Nov. 15, 2024. For full contest rules and eligibility visit leasidelife.com/contests.
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP
This Grief Support Group will be held bi-weekly for a total of 9 sessions. It is open to adults 19 and over who have experienced the loss of a family member or friend and it provides an opportunity to talk about your own grief and learn from the experiences of others.
LOCATION
Leaside United Church (Hearth Room) COST
There is no cost to participate FACILITATORS
Jean Marie Suchora (MA, Minister of Pastoral Care)
Barbara Kinnear, Graham Lute & Lynda Miller (Members of Leaside United Church)
Please call or email Alison Jane, Office Administrator (office@leasideunited.org) by December 23, 2024. Please respond ASAP as participants are limited to 10. Join us
Presentation Gallery opening Fall 2024, register now at vivaleaside.ca to book a private tour and become part of the Leaside Founder’s Club.
• Offering Anytime dining, red seal chef prepared meals
• V!VAFit Active Living – offering customized fitness programming
• Elegantly appointed suites offering independent living, assisted living and memory care
Presentation Gallery Opening Fall 2024
815 Eglinton Ave East, Toronto ON M4G 4G9 www.vivaleaside.ca
An Open Invitation to the Leaside Community
On Nov. 11, please join the Leaside Heritage Preservation Society (LHPS) for its 3rd annual Remembrance Day Walk as we visit the residences and review the lives of the young men of Leaside who died during World War II.
To further recognize these individuals, the LHPS will again post special commemorative signs, starting Nov. 5, outside the places where they lived. The walk begins at 2:00 p.m. at the entrance to Trace Manes Park (Millwood and Rumsey Rds.) and is open to the public free of charge.
On Friday, Nov. 8 at 10 am, the LHPS will also participate in a Remembrance Day ceremony at Leaside Memorial Community Gardens. This event is open to the public as well. We hope to see you in November as we honour the memory and sacrifice of these brave young men. For details, go to: https:// www.leasideheritage.ca. n
WAR DEAD From Page 3
Korea
Corporal Campbell undoubtedly saw action while in Korea – especially around Hill 355, 40km north of Seoul. This was the scene of intense bombardment and violent assaults from Chinese forces in November 1951 and again in late October 1952. In the first 10 minutes of the October assault, it’s estimated that Chinese artillery fired 1,000 shells on Canadian advance positions. 1 In both battles, the PPCLI along with the Royal Canadian Regiment (RCR) held or retook their positions, but they sustained heavy losses, totalling over 120 casualties. In short, Ronald Campbell’s battalion witnessed some of the bloodiest fighting experienced by Canadians in the war. 1 [G.R. Stevens, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry: 19191957, Vol. 3, page 350].
Remembrance Day
At Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles - Newbigging Chapel, we respect and honour the sacrifices made by those who have served. Our debt to you is deep and abiding.
A special thank you to all the veterans and wonderful staff at Sunnybrook Veterans Centre. We will never forget!
Death
What happened next is both sad and mysterious. One week after the October assault, Campbell was with some fellow soldiers away from the front lines. Their tour in Korea was nearing completion, and they were scheduled to go home. While they were drinking beer in celebration, an argument occurred between another soldier and him over their various war experiences. During the argument, Campbell angrily declared: “I’ve seen people dead and people running around picking up different parts of their bodies”– a probable reference to Hill 355. 2 Campbell left the group soon after this outburst. Hours later –on October 31, 1952 – shots were heard, and his dead body was found. A Court of Inquiry ruled that he had killed himself, “probably while of unsound mind.” 3 His suicide seems strange considering that he was soon to leave Korea. But given his battalion’s recent battle experiences and what we now know of post traumatic stress disorder, it’s likely that
Children’s House Montessori School
Toddler, Preschool & Kindergarten
We offer early learning experiences for young children to build the skills they need for life.
Info@leasidechildrenshouse.com Instagram @leaside_childrens_house
Dr. Michelle Munger recently joined the team at Laird-Eglinton Pet Hospital after practicing at various clinics in the Toronto area since graduating from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2014. Michelle is excited to be re-joining the team, as this was the first clinic that she ever worked at as a student in high school. Michelle has a special interest in preventive medicine, geriatric care and dentistry.
When not at the clinic, Michelle enjoys spending time with her friends and family and travelling as much as possible. Having grown up with Swiss parents, one of her favourite spots to visit is Switzerland, where she still has relatives. Otherwise, she likes to keep active with a variety of sports such as tennis, volleyball and skiing.
EventsNovember
CFUW LEASIDE-EAST YORK
Nov. 21, 7:00 p.m. IN PERSON
Using Toronto Island to Inspire a Mystery
A local tourist destination becomes an inspiration for mystery novels. Speaker: Dianne Scott, Author at Northlea United Church, 121 Brentcliffe Rd.
AGNES MACPHAIL AWARD 2025
The nomination process for the 2025 award is now open. Nominations for recipients, living in the former Borough of East York close on January 1. https://www.toronto.ca/ city-government/awards-tributes/awards/ agnes-macphail-award/.
ST. AUGUSTINE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH
1847 Bayview Ave.
Groove Room Coffee House 10th Anniversary. Help us celebrate on Fri., Nov. 8th at 7:00 p.m. Listen to live music by local artists and have a coffee and dessert with friends. Admission is pay what you can, with all funds going to the Flemingdon Food Bank. We are looking for performers. Contact info@saintaugustine.ca
NORTHLEA UNITED CHURCH
125 Brentcliffe Road 416 425 5252 Email office@northleaunited.ca northleaunited.ca
Music at Northlea United
Join Harold Bratten and MLC on Sun., Nov. 10, at 5:00 p.m. for an afternoon of old favourites. This event promises to be a great time! Free will offering families welcome.
Taizé at Northlea United Tues., Nov. 12 at 7:30 p.m. Come for an evening of music and meditation in the middle of your busy week.
ST. CUTHBERT’S CHURCH, LEASIDE 1399 Bayview Avenue 416 485 0329 stcuthbertleaside@toronto.anglican.ca www.stcuthbertsleaside.com
Tai Chi
Tuesdays 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. in Lamb Hall. Suggested donation $4. Join us!
Christmas Fair – Saturday, November 9 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Home baking, jewellery, kitchenware, toys and games, a tasty box lunch, books, electrical, art gallery, crafts...you name it (except furniture and clothing) and we have it!
LEASIDE LIBRARY
165 McRae Drive 416 396 3835
For a full list of programs at Leaside branch, please visit www.tpl.ca/leaside. Needlework
(Knitting & Crocheting at the Library) Thursdays, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Drop-in. Bring your own project, or start something new while learning about library programs, services and resources! All are welcome! n
provided by the “three sisters,” has something for everyone in the family. www.artistichairlounge.ca.
Specialty Hair Services
Tas Bhanji opened Blo Leaside (1693B Bayview Ave.) in February 2019. The shop specializes in wash and blow outs. Tas says that “we also do taped and clip-in hair extensions, makeup services and bridal parties.” They have a large clientele in the community and beyond. blomedry.com/leaside-toronto-on.
At Laird and Wicksteed (45 Wicksteed Ave., Suite 280), Hila Zer-Aviv is the operations manager of Sola Salon Studios , which opened in November of 2017. This establishment provides beauty professionals with the opportunity to run their own business inside a larger salon/studio. They offer hairstyling along with a wide variety of other services.
Within Sola Salon Studios, Born Curly, which opened in 2019, specializes in naturally wavy, curly and kinky hair. Owner/stylist Kim Gabriel says, “I specialize in creating
custom curly cuts and provide personalized guidance throughout your curly hair journey, welcoming all genders and clients aged 12 and up. Becky Tsiantis’s Hint of Mint Beauty is also within Sola Salon Studios. There are several other hairstylists with a variety of specialties within Sola. www.solasalonstudios.com.
Other great hair places in the Leaside area include:
Taglio Hair Salon (465 Manor Rd E.)
Perri and Palmacci Hair Company (1656 Bayview Ave.) www.pandphaircompany.com
Salons previously featured in past Leaside Life articles are:
Salon Ten (221 McRae Dr.)
www.salontenten.com
Floka (1643 Bayview Ave.) www.flokasalon.com
Ellevate Salon on Bayview (1681 Bayview Ave. Suite 101) www.ellevatesalon.com
NOOK salon (1707 Bayview Ave.) www.nooksalon.ca
Lena Barber Shop 909 Millwood Rd. Super Cuts, 85 Laird Drive. Klee Salon and Spa, 20 Brentcliffe Rd.
As many of us who use the hairstyling services in our neighbourhood know, we often hear from friends, family and colleagues that “your hair looks great, where did you get it done?” This is a great nod to all the stylists and service providers whose shops and salons call Leaside home. Many former Leasiders also return to the neighbourhood for their hair services, which is a testament to the quality of providers we are so lucky to be home to. Happy styling!
Disclaimer : We tried to feature the main hairstyling operations in Leaside but apologize if we’ve missed your favourite. Let us know at leasidelife@gmail.com. n
Fax (416) 481-5275
Phone (416) 481-1146
SENIOR FITNESS
Toronto Finnish-Canadian Seniors Centre 795 Eglinton Avenue East
FALL / WINTER / SPRING & SUMMER SESSIONS AQUA FITNESS * GROUP FITNESS * OSTEO FITNESS
Office Hours: Mon. to Fri. 9 am–5 pm For more info contact: 416-425-4134 x 225 Email: emas@suomikoti.ca
Editor: Jane W. Auster • Publisher: Lorna Krawchuk
Webmaster: Erin Sorhaug • Graphic Design: Robin Dickie Advertising: Karli Vezina
FH Publishing Inc. 30 Commercial Rd., Toronto, Ontario M4G 1Z4
Comments, Letters to the Editor, Advertising Enquiries: Contact: 416-504-8047 ext. 120 leasidelifepublishing@gmail.com • leasidelife@gmail.com
Published monthly in Leaside, Toronto, ON.
Circulation 10,000 to every home and business in Leaside & Bennington Heights
Ask the right questions of our DVW candidates
My Leaside Life column last month encouraged you to come up with questions to ask candidates hoping to be our new Ward 15 city councillor. By the time you read this column, the all- candidates’ meeting will have been held, but as of press time the actual election will still be in the offing.
What I propose to do here is to ask YOU what YOUR priorities are. Which issues do you want our new councillor to prioritize? Which issues, either in Leaside or city-wide, are most important to you, or need the most immediate attention?
For instance, planning and development. Are the ‘right’ kinds of housing being created? What about affordability? Family-size units vs. small one-bedroom size? Rental vs. condo?
Traffic congestion: does building or widening roads just create more congestion? Does installing more separated cycle lanes reduce automobile use (or not)? And how do you feel about toll roads?
What about public transit? Should our councillor promote surface transit (buses) over subways?
Do you want our new councillor to make heritage protection truly worthy of the name, to protect the character of neighbourhoods like Leaside? is this a priority you want our new Ward 15 councillor to embrace?
How important are environmental concerns to you? Do we want our councillor to place more emphasis on choosing environmentally friendly ways of transportation, building, and working?
What about property taxes, and how those taxes are spent? Always a hot topic!
Finally, let’s not forget more effective and speedy enforcement of our building bylaws and traffic regulations, and better protection of trees on building sites. How active do you hope our new councillor will be on these issues?
We are often reminded that the city is only ‘the creature of the province’, but there is a tremendous amount of influence and power that municipalities can wield to make our municipalities better places to live. We are all voters.
As constituents, your opinions can help set the city’s agenda, but only if you express them. More gets done when our elected representatives know what we want them to work for, for us.
The LRA board of directors meets at 7:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of every month, at the Trace Manes building on Rumsey, just south of Leaside Library. You are welcome to join us there. Our next meeting is on Nov. 6th. For more details and updates between now and then, or to become an LRA member, you can find us at leasideresidents.ca and press the Contact Us button, or at leasideresidents.ca/contact-us. n
